British Columbia: the easy way to plan it
British Columbia is one of the best “two-speed” destinations: you can do a city stay (Vancouver), then pivot to high-impact scenery (mountains, lakes, rainforest coastline) with minimal travel friction. If you’re coming from the U.S., aim for a direct flight to Vancouver and build the rest of the trip as day trips + one add-on (Whistler, Victoria, or a nature-heavy mountain reset).
Summer for lakes and islands, winter for Whistler ski season, spring/fall for fewer crowds and city + hikes.
4–5 days (Vancouver + one add-on) or 7–10 days (Vancouver + Sea-to-Sky + island or Rockies).
Pick the itinerary based on what you want most: city food + views, mountain time, or island calm.
- 4 days: Vancouver core — neighborhoods, seawall walks, one iconic view day (Grouse/Capilano).
- 5 days: Vancouver + Whistler — 2–3 days city, 1–2 days Whistler (or Sea-to-Sky day trip).
- 7 days: Vancouver + Victoria — city + ferry over for museums, gardens, harbor evenings.
- 9–10 days: Vancouver + Whistler + Victoria — the “best of BC” loop without rushing.
For a first trip, choose a walkable base so you can stack activities without car stress. Vancouver is ideal for a boutique hotel or downtown stay if you want easy transit, dining, and views.
- Downtown / Coal Harbour — easy access, waterfront views, strong hotel selection.
- Yaletown — modern vibe, restaurants, easy seawall access.
- Kitsilano — relaxed neighborhood feel, beach walks, coffee culture.
Don’t miss: Stanley Park + seawall, Granville Island, a skyline viewpoint (Grouse Mountain), and one “food day” built around neighborhoods.
Choose one add-on to keep the trip clean and memorable.
- Sea-to-Sky + Whistler — scenic drive, easy hikes, village stay, and “mountain reset” energy.
- Victoria — ferry ride, museums, gardens, and a calm coastal city break.
- Vancouver Island — slower travel, beaches, small towns, and nature-forward stays.
- Rockies extension — bigger time commitment, but unmatched scenery if you can add days.