As you settle into the city after your morning arrival, take a late morning stroll through the historic cobblestone streets of Gastown to soak in the local atmosphere. Watch the famous Steam Clock puff out its hourly whistle before making your way toward the majestic architecture of Waterfront Station to capture your first views of the bustling harbor.
Head toward the iconic white sails of Canada Place to experience the immersive FlyOver Canada flight simulation, which offers a breathtaking aerial tour of the nation's diverse landscapes. Afterward, enjoy a scenic stroll along the Coal Harbour Seawall to watch seaplanes glide over the water against the stunning backdrop of the North Shore mountains.
As night falls, head to the chic heritage warehouses of Yaletown for a sophisticated dinner at one of the neighborhood's award-winning bistros. Conclude your first day by ascending the Vancouver Lookout to admire the 360-degree glittering city lights and the starlit harbor from top-tier heights.
Start your morning with a refreshing stroll or bike ride along the iconic Stanley Park Seawall, taking in the crisp coastal air and views of Lion's Gate Bridge. Be sure to stop at the Brockton Point Totem Poles to admire the intricate First Nations artistry before heading to the serene shores of Third Beach to watch the morning tide.
Hop on a colorful False Creek Ferry for a brief, scenic ride across the water to the bustling Granville Island Public Market. Spend your afternoon weaving through the vibrant stalls to sample local delicacies or a famous treat from Lee's Donuts before browsing the unique handmade crafts at the Net Loft and exploring the Artisan District.
As dusk approaches, head to English Bay Beach to witness a stunning Pacific sunset while admiring the playful A-maze-ing Laughter sculptures nearby. Afterward, wander over to the vibrant Robson Street for a world-class dinner and a late-night dessert at a local patisserie to cap off your Vancouver exploration.
Begin your journey to Vancouver Island by making your way to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal for a majestic crossing of the Salish Sea. While aboard the BC Ferries vessel, find a spot on the outer deck to admire the stunning coastal islands and watch for wildlife as you navigate the narrow, picturesque waters of Active Pass.
After disembarking at the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal, drive south into the city to settle in near the picturesque Victoria Inner Harbour. Spend your afternoon wandering through the whimsical floating homes of Fisherman's Wharf or exploring the historic charm and unique boutiques along Government Street.
As dusk falls, witness the architectural brilliance of the British Columbia Parliament Buildings as thousands of LED lights illuminate its grand facade against the night sky. Enjoy a sophisticated evening meal overlooking the water at the historic Fairmont Empress or take a peaceful stroll through the gas-lit alleys of nearby Bastion Square to soak in the local history.
Start your morning with an immersive journey through local history and natural wonders at the Royal BC Museum, where you can explore the lifelike First Nations galleries and the iconic Woolly Mammoth. Afterward, step outside to admire the impressive collection of heraldic poles at Thunderbird Park before enjoying a brisk walk along the scenic David Foster Harbour Pathway to take in the bustling maritime activity of the Inner Harbour.
Travel north of the city to the world-renowned Butchart Gardens, where you can wander through the breathtaking Sunken Garden, a lush masterpiece transformed from an old limestone quarry. Spend time exploring the serene pathways of the Japanese Garden or admire the whimsical wooden animals of the Rose Carousel before relaxing with a warm beverage at the estate's Coffee Shop.
As evening arrives, explore the historic charm of Chinatown by wandering through the narrow, lantern-lit corridor of Fan Tan Alley and browsing its eclectic boutiques. Conclude your Victoria experience with a sustainable, farm-to-table dinner at 10 Acres Kitchen or a cozy final drink in the atmospheric heritage setting of The Churchill.
Depart Victoria early to catch the BC Ferries sailing from Swartz Bay back to the mainland, enjoying a morning breeze as you navigate the scenic Gulf Islands. Once docked, begin the legendary drive north along the Sea to Sky Highway, pausing at the Porteau Cove Provincial Park lookout to capture breathtaking views of the Howe Sound fjord before arriving in Squamish.
Spend your afternoon marveling at the towering granite faces of Stawamus Chief Provincial Park, where you can embark on a rewarding hike to the first peak for sweeping views of the Howe Sound. Afterward, venture into downtown Squamish to explore the eclectic boutiques along Cleveland Avenue before winding down with a local craft brew at Backcountry Brewing.
Wrap up your Squamish day with a sophisticated farm-to-table dinner at The Salted Vine Kitchen + Bar, savoring regional flavors in its rustic-chic setting. Later, take a calm twilight stroll through the Squamish Estuary, where the silence of the marshlands offers a perfect view of the moon reflecting off the quiet waters of Howe Sound.
Wake up in the heart of the mountains and head to Shannon Falls Provincial Park, where you can marvel at the mist rising from the spectacular 335-meter-high Shannon Falls, the third-highest waterfall in the province. From there, take a short stroll to the base of the Sea to Sky Gondola to begin your ascent, soaring high above the forest canopy for unparalleled panoramic views of the turquoise waters of Howe Sound and the surrounding Coast Mountains.
Once at the summit, brave the heights of the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge before strapping on some snowshoes to traverse the scenic Spirit Trail through the snow-dusted sub-alpine forest. Afterward, retreat to the floor-to-ceiling windows of the Summit Lodge to enjoy a warm beverage while watching the afternoon light dance across the peaks of Garibaldi Provincial Park.
After descending back to the valley floor, settle in for a relaxing dinner at Howe Sound Brewing, where you can warm up with locally-sourced comfort food and a flight of craft ales in their historic, timber-framed brewpub. Conclude your evening with a peaceful night walk along the Mamquam River Trail, taking in the rhythmic sounds of the glacial water and the silhouettes of the towering peaks under the crisp winter sky.
Begin your final stretch of the Sea to Sky Highway by pulling over at the Tantalus Lookout to marvel at the jagged, snow-capped peaks of the Tantalus Range glinting in the morning sun. Continue your northward journey to the spectacular Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, where a short, snow-dusted trail leads you to a dramatic 70-meter waterfall plummeting into a frozen basin below.
Upon arriving in the heart of the mountains, wander through the vibrant, pedestrian-only Whistler Village to take a commemorative photo with the iconic rings at Whistler Olympic Plaza. Spend the rest of your afternoon admiring the striking architecture and First Nations masterpieces within the Audain Art Museum or take a breath of crisp alpine air while exploring the serene, tree-lined trails around Lost Lake.
As night falls, venture into the enchanted forest of Cougar Mountain to experience Vallea Lumina, an immersive multimedia light show that illuminates the coastal rainforest with magical projections. Afterward, head back to the village for a sophisticated dinner at Araxi Restaurant & Oyster Bar or choose to saber a bottle of champagne in the world-class wine cellar at the Bearfoot Bistro.
Start your morning by ascending through the clouds via the Whistler Village Gondola, watching the village shrink below as you rise toward the snow-caked peaks of the Coast Mountains. Once at the top, board the record-breaking Peak 2 Peak Gondola for a breathtaking crossing to Blackcomb Mountain, offering unparalleled views of the Fitzsimmons Valley from its glass-bottomed floor. After the crossing, enjoy a crisp walk to the Rendezvous Lodge to watch the first tracks being carved into the pristine alpine bowls.
Descend from the peaks to the Whistler Sliding Centre to experience the adrenaline-pumping pulse of the world's fastest track on a passenger bobsleigh run. Afterward, explore the exquisite First Nations exhibits and hand-carved canoes at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre. Conclude your afternoon with a leisurely winter walk through the frosted trees of the Upper Village to browse the high-end boutique shops and art galleries.
Experience deep relaxation at the Scandinave Spa Whistler, where you can soak in outdoor thermal baths and eucalyptus steam rooms amidst a serene forest setting. Later, indulge in a sophisticated dinner of Spanish-inspired tapas and charcuterie at the stylish Bar Oso located along the village stroll. Finish your snowy adventure by warming up with a signature craft cocktail beside the massive stone fireplace at The Mallard Lounge.
Enjoy a peaceful final morning in the mountains with breakfast at the Wildflower Restaurant before beginning your scenic descent south via the Sea to Sky Highway. Along the way, take a brief moment to admire the tranquil waters of Browning Lake at Murrin Provincial Park before the winding road reaches the coastal charm of Horseshoe Bay.
After arriving back on the mainland, spend your afternoon browsing the eclectic boutique shops and local artisan stalls at the Lonsdale Quay Market while taking in views of the city skyline from The Shipyards. Before heading toward the airport, make a final stop at the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet to pick up last-minute gifts or enjoy a contemplative walk along the scenic jetty at Iona Beach Regional Park.
Wrap up your British Columbia journey with a serene sunset stroll along the historic boardwalk of Steveston Village, where you can watch the fishing fleet return to the docks against a golden horizon. Savor a final West Coast meal at Catch Kitchen + Bar before heading toward the terminal to relax with a signature cocktail and floor-to-ceiling runway views at Globe@YVR.