6-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Vancouver

Day 1: Exploring Downtown

Vancouver, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Wild Fig

Kick-start your day with a breakfast sandwich and fresh coffee at this cozy local café.
Walk 10 minutes to the waterfront after breakfast.
C$15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Stroll Along the Waterfront

Enjoy breathtaking views as you walk along the Vancouver waterfront, taking in sights like Canada Place.
Walk along the seawall.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery

Explore local and indigenous art in one of Canada’s most prominent art institutions.
Walk 5 minutes to the gallery.
C$24, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Japadog

Taste Vancouver’s famous street food with a gourmet Japanese hot dog at this budget-friendly joint.
Walk 10 minutes to Japadog.
C$10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Gastown

Wander around this historic area, marveling at its unique shops, and stop to see the famous steam clock.
Walk 10 minutes to Gastown.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Stanley Park

Unwind in this lush urban park; take a leisurely stroll or enjoy the scenic views of the harbor.
Walk 20 minutes to Stanley Park.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The White Spot

Enjoy a hearty meal with a variety of budget-friendly dining options.
Take a bus to The White Spot.
C$20, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature and City Vibes

Vancouver, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Medina

Indulge in delicious waffles and lavender honey milk at this trendy breakfast spot.
Walk 10 minutes to Medina.
C$20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Granville Island Market

Explore the market’s artisan stalls, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and local produce.
Take the bus from downtown to Granville Island.
Free (if just exploring), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Granville Island Public Market

Grab a fresh meal from any of the numerous vendors; try the fish tacos.
Eat at the market.
C$15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Take the Aquabus to Yaletown

Enjoy a scenic boat ride with views of the water and city skyline.
Catch the Aquabus at Granville Island.
C$6, 30 minutes

2:00PM

Biking the Seawall

Rent a bike at Yaletown and ride along the seawall to showcase the city’s stunning views.
Pickup bike rentals near the waterfront.
C$10 (for rental), 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Science World

Engage with interactive exhibits at this beloved science centre, perfect for playful exploration.
Ride back to the main land and take the bus.
C$28, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Noodlebox

Savor a variety of Asian noodle dishes at this quick and affordable eatery.
Walk 15 minutes to Noodlebox.
C$12, 1 hour
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Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Vancouver, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tim Hortons

Start your day with a classic coffee and a hearty breakfast wrap at this Canadian favorite.
Walk to Tim Hortons around the corner.
C$8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Museum of Anthropology

Discover the rich culture of First Nations and explore impressive exhibits.
Take the bus to UBC.
C$18, 2 hours

11:00AM

Stroll around UBC Campus

Enjoy the beautiful campus grounds and scenic beaches nearby.
Walk around the campus.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Pita Pit

Construct your own pita with fresh and healthy ingredients for a balanced lunch.
Walk 10 minutes to The Pita Pit.
C$12, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Lynn Canyon Park

Wander across the stunning suspension bridge and explore the beautiful hiking trails.
Take the bus back to downtown and transfer to the bus heading to Lynn Canyon.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Downtown Vancouver

Head back and relax in one of the many parks downtown to unwind.
Take the bus back.
C$3, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Peaked Pies

Enjoy savory Australian meat pies that bring warmth without breaking the bank.
Walk to Peaked Pies.
C$10, 1 hour
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Day 4: A Day of Nature

Vancouver, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Caffè Artigiano

Enjoy a rich latte with a delicious croissant to fuel your adventures.
Walk 10 minutes to the café.
C$10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Day Trip to Grouse Mountain

Experience stunning views and outdoor activities like hiking or the Wildlife Refuge.
Ride the SkyTrain to the base and take the free shuttle.
C$30 (Grouse Mountain Skyride), 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Grouse Mountain Café

Dine with a view; try the local grilled salmon sandwich.
Located on Grouse Mountain.
C$15, 1 hour

3:30PM

Return to Downtown Vancouver

Head back down after enjoying the scenic views.
Take the free shuttle back to the SkyTrain.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Relax at the SeaWall

Unwind as you walk along the SeaWall, feeling the sea breeze.
Walk to the nearest entry point of the SeaWall.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Bao

Explore a variety of visually appealing and tasty bao, a true Vancouver experience.
Walk 10 minutes to The Bao.
C$15, 1 hour
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Day 5: Relax and Reflect

Vancouver, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Table

Savor a classic Vancouver breakfast with locally sourced ingredients.
Take a short bus ride to the café.
C$18, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit VanDusen Botanical Garden

Stroll through beautifully designed gardens; photography enthusiasts will love it here.
Take the bus to the garden.
C$10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Bloedel Conservatory

Enjoy a diverse collection of exotic plants and birds in this tropical paradise.
Short walk from VanDusen.
C$7, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at the Tea House

Relax with a gourmet sandwich and tea within the park’s serene setting.
At the Botanical Garden.
C$20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Kitsilano Beach

Take time to unwind at this popular local spot for sunbathing and beach sports.
Bus to Kitsilano.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Downtown Vancouver

Head back to freshen up before dinner.
Public bus back.
C$3, 30 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at The Old Spaghetti Factory

Enjoy a hearty Italian meal in a unique atmosphere without hurting your budget.
Walk to the restaurant.
C$20, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Final Explorations

Vancouver, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at V60 Café

Treat yourself to a specialty coffee and pastry to savor your final morning in Vancouver.
Walk to the café near your accommodation.
C$10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

Experience breathtaking views with a walk across the suspension bridge and beautiful surrounding nature.
Take a shuttle bus from downtown.
C$54, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Capilano Cafe

Recharge with a quick bite before continuing your adventure.
Located at Capilano.
C$15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Return to Downtown Vancouver

Head back to explore any shops or sights you missed.
Shuttle bus back to downtown.
Free with ticket., 1 hour

2:30PM

Free Walking Tour

Join a free walking tour to learn more about Vancouver’s history and culture.
Starting point is usually in Gastown.
Free (tips appreciated), 2 hours

4:30PM

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Pick up any last-minute souvenirs from local shops.
Explore Granville St. for shops.
Cost varies, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Earls Kitchen + Bar

Cap off your trip with a delightful dinner featuring a range of international dishes.
Walk to Earls.
C$25, 1.5 hours
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