When most people picture Vancouver, they imagine cherry blossoms in spring or breezy summer days by the seawall. But winter in Vancouver has a magic of its own—sparkling snow on the North Shore Mountains, cozy cafés tucked away on charming streets, and endless activities that bring together both locals and travelers. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more of British Columbia, knowing what to do in Vancouver this winter will help you make the most of your trip.
From world-class ski slopes and festive light displays to luxurious hotels, family-friendly tours, and romantic escapes for couples, Vancouver is a city that blends urban excitement with natural beauty all year round. And the best part? With mild coastal winters, you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of snowy adventures and city comforts.
In this guide, we’ll explore:
- The best hotels to stay at this winter.
- Activities and tours for families, couples, and solo travelers.
- The top places to explore and hidden gems.
- How to get around the city with ease.
- Pro tips and resources to plan your trip.
Let’s dive into the ultimate guide for what to do in Vancouver this winter.
What to Do in Vancouver This Winter - Full Guide
Table of contents
- What to Do in Vancouver This Winter - Full Guide
- Best Hotels in Vancouver for a Winter Stay
- What to Do in Vancouver This Winter: Top Activities
- Tours in Vancouver for Families and Couples
- How to Get Around Vancouver in Winter
- Best Places to Visit in Vancouver This Winter
- 3-Day Vancouver Winter Itinerary
- Conclusion: Why Vancouver in Winter Should Be on Your List
- FAQs: What to Do in Vancouver This Winter
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Best Hotels in Vancouver for a Winter Stay
Choosing the right accommodation is key to making your winter trip unforgettable. Here’s a list of highly-rated hotels that combine comfort, convenience, and a cozy winter atmosphere.
| Hotel | Location | Highlights | Booking Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairmont Hotel Vancouver | Downtown | Iconic luxury, historic charm, close to shopping & dining | Book Here |
| Pan Pacific Vancouver | Waterfront | Stunning mountain & harbor views, perfect for winter sunsets | Book Here |
| Loden Hotel | Coal Harbour | Boutique feel, personalized service, spa | Book Here |
| The Burrard | Downtown | Retro-modern design, budget-friendly, central location | Book Here |
| Shangri-La Vancouver | Downtown | Luxury suites, spa, fine dining | Book Here |
Each hotel offers easy access to the city’s winter highlights and provides a warm base after exploring the crisp Vancouver air.
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Tripadvisor: Plan with confidence — reviews you can trust, Restaurants, hotels and experiences with millions of traveller reviews to help you choose what’s best.
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What to Do in Vancouver This Winter: Top Activities
Vancouver shines in winter because it offers the best of both worlds—urban charm and outdoor adventures. If you’re wondering what to do in Vancouver this winter, here’s a breakdown of must-try activities for every type of traveler.
Hit the Slopes Near Vancouver
- Grouse Mountain (20 min from downtown): Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and the enchanting Light Walk trail.
- Cypress Mountain (30 min): The largest ski area on the North Shore, ideal for families and night skiing.
- Mount Seymour (40 min): Affordable, less crowded, with snow tubing and snowshoeing trails for non-skiers.
- Whistler Blackcomb (2 hrs): World-famous, perfect for a day trip or overnight stay.
If you love winter mountain escapes, you’ll also enjoy this Banff and Jasper itinerary.
Enjoy Winter Festivals & Light Displays
Vancouver’s winter calendar is packed with festive events:
- Capilano Suspension Bridge Park – Canyon Lights: Thousands of twinkling lights transform the forest and bridge into a fairytale.
- Vancouver Christmas Market: Inspired by European holiday markets, with mulled wine, crafts, and festive treats.
- Festival of Lights at VanDusen Botanical Garden: A dazzling garden light show with music and food vendors.
- Lunar New Year Celebrations in Chinatown: Cultural performances, food stalls, and traditional lion dances.
These events make deciding what to do in Vancouver this winter easy if you love cozy evenings and festive vibes.
Explore Scenic Walks & Urban Nature
Even in winter, Vancouver is an outdoor city:
- Stanley Park Seawall: Walk or cycle with stunning views of snowy mountains meeting the ocean.
- Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge: A quieter (and free) alternative to Capilano.
- Queen Elizabeth Park: Winter gardens and panoramic city views.
- Pacific Spirit Regional Park: Forest trails for a peaceful winter walk.
For more outdoor inspiration, check out these easy hikes in Banff to compare different Canadian winter trails.
Indoor & Cultural Experiences
When rain or cold weather sets in, Vancouver’s indoor attractions shine:
- Vancouver Art Gallery: Rotating exhibits from local and international artists.
- Museum of Anthropology (UBC): Indigenous art and cultural history.
- Science World: Interactive exhibits—perfect for families with kids.
- Bill Reid Gallery: A small but powerful space celebrating Indigenous art and culture.
These spots make what to do in Vancouver this winter more than just outdoor fun—it’s about culture too.
Food, Drink & Cozy Nights
Winter is the best time to warm up with Vancouver’s culinary scene:
- Granville Island Public Market: Fresh local produce, artisan shops, and food stalls.
- Richmond Night Market (seasonal): For Asian street food lovers.
- Craft Breweries in East Van (“Yeast Van”): Perfect for beer-tasting tours.
- Wine & Dine in Yaletown or Gastown: Cozy dinners for couples.
If you’re a foodie exploring Canada, you’ll love comparing this with the local eats featured in the Toronto 3-day itinerary.
Adventure & Day Trips
If you’re looking beyond the city:
- Snowshoeing at Cypress or Seymour.
- Seaplane Flightseeing Tours over Vancouver and the Coast Mountains.
- Day Trip to Victoria: Use this ultimate Victoria itinerary for planning.
- Day Trip to Whistler: Ski, shop, and stroll through a winter village.
And for summer planning, don’t miss kayaking in Canada.
With this mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, foodie stops, and festive events, you’ll never run out of ideas for what to do in Vancouver this winter.
Tours in Vancouver for Families and Couples
Vancouver offers a wide range of tours for different travelers. Whether you’re planning a fun family trip or a romantic getaway, these handpicked options will make your winter visit unforgettable.
Family-Friendly Tours in Vancouver
| Tour | Best For | Highlights | Booking Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stanley Park Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride | Families with young kids | Cozy winter ride through Vancouver’s most famous park. See totem poles, gardens, and the seawall. | Book Here |
| Granville Island Market & Kids Market Tour | Families with children | Indoor market with food stalls, artisan shops, and a kids-only market. Perfect for rainy days. | Book Here |
| Science World Admission + Guided Experience | Curious kids & teens | Hands-on exhibits, live shows, and interactive displays. | Book Here |
| Capilano Suspension Bridge Park – Canyon Lights | All ages | Magical illuminated forest trails and suspension bridge—perfect for winter evenings. | Book Here |
| Family Snowshoeing Tour (Mount Seymour) | Families with older kids | Easy guided snowshoe trails, hot chocolate included. | Book Here |
For more family fun across Canada, don’t miss these guides: things to do in Ottawa with kids and things to do in Winnipeg.
Romantic Tours for Couples in Vancouver
| Tour | Best For | Highlights | Booking Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vancouver Seaplane Tour | Couples & honeymooners | A breathtaking 30-minute flight over city, ocean, and snow-covered mountains. | Book Here |
| Whistler Day Trip for Two | Adventure-loving couples | Scenic Sea-to-Sky drive, stroll Whistler Village, and try winter sports. | Book Here |
| Wine & Food Tour in Yaletown | Foodie couples | Guided tasting of local wines paired with fine dining in one of Vancouver’s trendiest districts. | Book Here |
| Grouse Mountain Skyride + Dinner Package | Romantic night out | Ride the gondola, enjoy mountain views, then dine at The Observatory. | Book Here |
| Private Sunset Walking Tour in Gastown | History + romance | Explore Vancouver’s oldest district with a guide, ending at a cozy café or wine bar. | Book Here |
If you’re planning a romantic Canada trip, also check out this Toronto 3-day itinerary or the Banff and Jasper 7-day itinerary.
Small Group & Friends Tours in Vancouver
| Tour | Best For | Highlights | Booking Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| East Van Brewery Tour | Groups of friends | Sample craft beers in Vancouver’s “Yeast Van” district with a local guide. | Book Here |
| Sea-to-Sky Day Trip (Squamish & Whistler) | Adventure seekers | Waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, gondolas, and alpine village strolls. | Book Here |
| Snowshoe Adventure Tour | Active small groups | Guided winter trek through Cypress or Seymour trails. | Book Here |
| Vancouver Foodie Walking Tour (Gastown or Chinatown) | Food lovers | Taste your way through Vancouver’s best restaurants and hidden gems. | Book Here |
| Kayaking & Winter Wildlife Tour | Outdoorsy travelers | Paddle along the coast, spot seals, and enjoy crisp winter air. | Book Here |
💡 If you love group adventures, check out kayaking in Canada and this Banff and Jasper itinerary.
Book top-rated tours and attractions on :
Viator (Best for curated global tours)
GetYourGuide (Skip-the-line tickets & local guides)
Klook (Great for Asia adventures & discounts)
How to Get Around Vancouver in Winter
Winter in Vancouver means some rain, occasional snow, but mostly mild conditions. Here’s how to move around easily:
- SkyTrain & Buses: Affordable and efficient. The Canada Line connects the airport to downtown in 30 minutes.
- Car Rentals: Best for day trips to Whistler or North Shore mountains.
- Walking & Biking: Downtown is pedestrian-friendly, and biking the Seawall is still doable with mild weather.
- Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are widely available.
Pro Tip: For budgeting your Canadian trip, check out this full guide on Canada travel costs.
Looking for cheap flights or all-in-one travel deals? Check out:
Trip.com (Competitive flight & hotel bundles)
Expedia (Flight + hotel savings)
WayAway.io (Cashback on flights & travel bookings)
Best Places to Visit in Vancouver This Winter
Stanley Park & Seawall
Even in winter, Stanley Park is a must. Rent a bike or stroll along the seawall for iconic city-meets-nature views.
Grouse Mountain
Known as the Peak of Vancouver, Grouse Mountain offers skiing, snowshoeing, and the enchanting Light Walk.
Granville Island
Warm up indoors with artisan shops, bakeries, and local breweries. Perfect for a rainy winter afternoon.
Vancouver Art Gallery & Museums
Stay cozy while enjoying exhibitions, or visit the Museum of Anthropology for cultural immersion.
For more must-visit places beyond Vancouver, explore the ultimate Victoria BC itinerary or discover Drumheller’s attractions.
3-Day Vancouver Winter Itinerary
If you’re short on time but want to experience the best of what to do in Vancouver this winter, here’s a ready-made 3-day itinerary that balances city highlights, nature escapes, and cozy downtime.
Day 1: Downtown & Stanley Park
- Morning: Arrive and check into your hotel (Fairmont or Pan Pacific are great options).
- Late Morning: Explore Granville Island Public Market for local foods and crafts.
- Afternoon: Head to Stanley Park Seawall for a walk or bike ride, even in the crisp winter air. Don’t miss the totem poles and waterfront views.
- Evening: Enjoy a warm dinner in Yaletown—ideal for couples looking for a romantic evening.
Compare this with the Toronto 3-day itinerary to plan other quick city getaways in Canada.
Day 2: Mountains & Adventure
- Morning: Take the Skyride up to Grouse Mountain for skiing, snowboarding, or snowshoeing. Families will love the Light Walk and wildlife refuge.
- Afternoon: Cozy up at the mountain lodge for hot cocoa, then return to the city.
- Evening: Walk through Capilano Suspension Bridge Park’s Canyon Lights, a dazzling winter wonderland.
For more snowy Canadian inspiration, check out this Banff and Jasper 7-day itinerary.
Day 3: Culture & Local Flavor
- Morning: Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery or Museum of Anthropology for a cultural start to your day.
- Afternoon: Stroll through Gastown to see the steam clock, boutique shops, and cozy cafés.
- Evening: Wrap up your trip with a seaplane flight over the city and mountains—an unforgettable finale.
Extend your journey with side trips like the ultimate Victoria BC itinerary or outdoor adventures like kayaking in Canada.
Conclusion: Why Vancouver in Winter Should Be on Your List
If you’re still wondering what to do in Vancouver this winter, the answer is simple—plenty! From snowy mountain adventures to cozy city escapes, Vancouver offers the perfect balance of urban culture and natural beauty. Whether you’re a family seeking fun activities, a couple chasing romantic moments, or a solo traveler exploring Canada, this city has something for everyone.
And if you’re planning to extend your Canada adventure, don’t miss exploring kayaking in Canada or a 3-day Banff itinerary.