The Perfect Things to Do in Vancouver During the World Cup

As the city of Vancouver and soccer fans from around the world gear up for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, here are three itineraries to guide you on what to do in Vancouver this summer.

World Cup Summer Two-Day Vancouver Itinerary

Make the most of your two days in the city, with time spent cheering on your team, indulging in the city’s culinary scene, and getting a taste of this adventurer’s paradise.

Day One: Hit the Highlights and Treat Your Tastebuds

Morning: Every Vancouver trip must include an exploration of Stanley Park, the 1,000-acre rainforest at the edge of the city. Bike beneath the forest canopy or cruise around the 10km seawall with photo stops at Prospect Point and the famous totem poles.

Afternoon: Grab lunch in Granville Island at the Public Market, where vendors serve up delicious eats for every palate. For a more in-depth tasting experience, try Vancouver Foodie Tours' Granville Island Market Tour.

Evening: Wander down to Coal Harbour for an early evening Sea Vancouver zodiac tour, where you’ll jet across the harbour, enjoying stunning views. After a waterfront dinner at Cardero’s Restaurant, head back to Stanley Park for Theatre Under the Stars, a nightly musical under the open sky.

Day Two: Discover The North Shore and Dine In Gastown

Morning: Explore the North Shore with Westcoast Sightseeing’s Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge tour. Cross the iconic suspension bridge, then learn about the importance of salmon to Indigenous cultures at the Capilano Salmon Hatchery.

Afternoon: Head up the gondola to the peak of Grouse Mountain. Enjoy the nature and pay a visit to the two resident rescue grizzly bears, Grinder and Coola.

Evening: Finish the day wandering Gastown, a lively neighbourhood filled with many of the city’s best restaurants, independent galleries, and boutiques. Monarca and Pidgin are great dinner options, but check out the city’s MICHELIN Guide for more ideas.

Vancouver Nature-Focused Two-Day Itinerary

For nature enthusiasts visiting Vancouver, here’s the perfect way to spend a couple of days discovering the city’s natural beauty and exploring the local mountains.

Day One: Exploring the Beauty of Downtown Vancouver

Morning: After waking up at your hotel near BC Place, start your day with a breath of fresh air in Stanley Park, the 1,000-acre rainforest on the edge of downtown. Ride through trails under the lush canopy or cruise along the 10-kilometer seawall tracing the edge of the park.

Afternoon: Head over to the charming waterfront district of Granville Island to grab a casual bite from one of the many vendors at the Public Market. Tap + Barrel Bridges also offers classic pub fare on one of the city’s best patios.

Evening: Make your way to Coal Harbour for an early evening Sea Vancouver tour, where you’ll zip across the water, enjoying sweeping city and mountain views. After an al fresco dinner at Cardero’s Restaurant, head back to Stanley Park for Theatre Under the Stars, a nightly musical under the open sky.

Day Two: Getting Outdoors for PNW Adventures

Morning: Explore the mountainous North Shore with Westcoast Sightseeing’s Grouse Mountain and Capilano Bridge tour. Wander the famous suspension bridge, visit a salmon hatchery, and enjoy aerial views of the city from the peak of Grouse Mountain

Afternoon: Take a casual stroll and enjoy the scenery and activities on Grouse Mountain before visiting the bear den where Grinder and Coola, the area’s rescued resident grizzly bears, live.

Evening: Wander the historic neighbourhood of Gastown, where independent boutiques, galleries, and restaurants line the streets. Monarca and Pidgin are great dinner spots, but check out the MICHELIN Guide for more ideas and be sure to book a reservation.

Vancouver Pre or Post Alaska Cruise Four-Day Itinerary

If you have a few days to spare before or after your cruise, this itinerary will help guide you on what to do in Vancouver during the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

Day One: Explore the Mountains, then the City

Morning: Book the Post-Cruise North Shore Mountain Discovery Tour to experience the stunning North Shore Mountains. The tour includes stops at the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and Grouse Mountain.

Afternoon: Wander through the streets of Gastown, the historic heart of Vancouver, before making your way to Chinatown, one of the best neighbourhoods for delicious and cheap eats.

Evening: When match time rolls around, head to Donnellan’s Irish Pub to grab a bite and join in the excitement of the World Cup. If you still haven’t tried a Canadian Caesar, head to Score on Davie, a spot known for its towering drinks and game-day atmosphere.

Day Two: Watch Some Whales and Dine in Style

Morning: Whale watching is one of the best things to do in Vancouver. Spot orcas, humpbacks, seals, sea lions, and more.

Afternoon: Shop along Robson Street, where you’ll find luxury stores, upscale department stores, and the CF Pacific Centre, a mall filled with world-renowned brands.

Evening: Explore the historic Chinatown neighbourhood, home to dozens of incredible restaurants. Find everything from classic dim sum spots and longstanding Cantonese eateries to modern fusion restaurants and trendy cocktail bars. For dinner, we recommend MICHELIN-starred Kissa Tanto or Chinatown BBQ for more casual fare.

Day Three: Soak in the City From Up Above

Morning: Spend the morning exploring the city’s top sights and hidden gems on a Discover Vancouver Tour, with stops at Stanley Park, the Olympic Cauldron, and Granville Island.

Afternoon: After exploring on land, take to the skies with Harbour Air for breathtaking floatplane views of the city’s waterfront and surrounding mountains.

Evening: Enjoy dinner with a view at Lift Bar & Grill in Coal Harbour, where classic West Coast fare is served alongside sweeping harbour vistas.

Day Four: Get a Taste of the North Shore

Morning: After breakfast, it’s time for your Lighthouse Park & Capilano River Canyon Salmon Adventure with Rockwood Adventures. This experience weaves together ecological and Indigenous stories, from Stanley Park’s totem poles to the rich world of Pacific salmon.

Afternoon: The Lower Lonsdale neighbourhood is the best spot for quick bites on the North Shore. King Taps serves tasty pizzas and craft brews with beautiful waterfront views.

Evening: Before you depart, take one last adventure at Flyover Canada, a 4D simulation that soars across the country, filling your senses with sights, sounds, and smells from coast-to-coast.