Page last updated: 19 December 2025
Vancouver, often called the “City of Glass” and located on Canada’s Pacific coast, is known for its scenic landscapes and diverse cultural attractions.
How many tourists visit Vancouver each year?
Each year, Vancouver tourism attracts an average of 9 million tourists to Vancouver, Canada.
- Vancouver’s tourism peaked in 2019 with over 11 million visitors. Visitations declined due to the pandemic reaching 3.04 million in 2020.1
- In 2021, Vancouver travel began a steady recovery, with tourist arrivals rising to 4.03 million, and figures continued to increase with 8.80 million tourists visiting Vancouver in 2022.
- Visitors to Vancouver totalled 10.95 million visitors in 2023, indicating an increase of 24% from the previous year.2
- In 2024, Vancouver welcomed 11.27 million overnight visitors, an increase of 3% year over year, reinforcing the city’s momentum as a top British Columbia travel destination.
How many tourists visited Vancouver in 2024?
- In 2024, 11.27 million tourists (overnight visitors) visited Vancouver, making it one of the top Canada travel destinations.
How much do tourists spend in Vancouver each year?
In 2024, visitors spent a total of C$9.6 billion in Vancouver.
- Tourist spending reached C$5.5 billion in 2019. However, due to the pandemic, spending dropped by 67% to C$1.8 billion in 2020.
- In 2021, spending increased by 39% to C$2.5 billion. Spending rose further in 2022 to C$3.5 billion.
- Tourist spending reached C$8.4 billion in 2023, reflecting a 140% increase from 2022 and 53% above the 2019 peak.
- In 2024, visitors spent a total of C$9.6 billion in Vancouver, reflecting a 14% increase from 2023 and 75% above the 2019 peak.
How much did tourists spend in Vancouver in 2024?
- In 2024, tourists spent C$9.6 billion in Vancouver, reflecting a 14% increase compared to 2023, and this was 75% above the pre-pandemic peak of $5.5 billion.
How much does it cost to visit Vancouver?
- In 2024, tourists spent an average of C$852 per visitor in Vancouver, typically on accommodation, food and dining, transportation, attractions and tours, and shopping/entertainment, making it a useful benchmark for your Vancouver trip cost or Vancouver travel budget.
When is the best time to visit Vancouver?
The best times to visit Vancouver are spring (March to May) and fall (September to November).
Spring (March to May)
- Weather: Mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F). Spring is known for its blooming flowers, particularly cherry blossoms in April.
- Activities: Ideal for outdoor pursuits like hiking and kayaking, as well as cultural events such as the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival and the Vancouver International Dance Festival.
Summer (June to August)
- Weather: Warm and dry, with average temperatures between 17°C to 23°C (63°F to 73°F). This is the sunniest season with long daylight hours.
- Activities: Perfect for beach outings, festivals like Bard on the Beach, and outdoor adventures. However, it’s also the busiest time for tourism, leading to higher accommodation prices.
What is the peak tourist season in Vancouver?
The peak tourist season in Vancouver is summer, especially July and August, when Vancouver arrivals are at their highest.
- In 2024, visitor arrivals peaked in August at 1.501 million, followed by July at 1.373 million.
- The broader high season runs from late spring into summer, with strong volumes in June (1.129 million) and May (1.071 million) as the city ramps up for summer travel.
- For travelers searching “best time to visit Vancouver,” July and August is the busiest (and often priciest) period, while May and June can offer similar weather and activities with slightly lighter crowds.
How many days do tourists need to explore Vancouver?
- Tourists visiting Vancouver typically stay for an average of 4.7 days to explore the city’s cultural scene, iconic landmarks, and natural beauty, including its scenic parks, waterfronts, and surrounding mountains.
Why do people visit Vancouver?
People visit Vancouver for its natural beauty and iconic spots like Stanley Park, with its scenic Seawall and lush forests, the thrilling Capilano Suspension Bridge, and Grouse Mountain.
- Cultural Attractions: Granville Island, the Museum of Anthropology, and the Vancouver Art Gallery showcase arts, history, and local culture.
- Outdoor Adventures: Activities like cycling along the Seawall, whale watching, and eco-tours immerse visitors in Vancouver’s stunning landscapes.
- Events and Festivals: Year-round festivals and cultural celebrations highlight the city’s diverse community and vibrant atmosphere.
- Culinary Scene: A mix of global cuisines and local specialities makes Vancouver a top destination for food enthusiasts.
How popular is Vancouver as a tourist destination?
Vancouver is often featured among the best cities for outdoor activities and urban experiences.
- In 2023, leisure travel accounted for about 85% of visits, showcasing its appeal as a vacation destination.
- Vancouver has consistently ranked among the top meeting destinations in North America.
Vancouver Travel Resources
What is the best place to visit in Vancouver?
Stanley Park is the best place to visit in Vancouver. It is a vast urban park featuring the iconic Seawall, forests, beaches, and landmarks like the Vancouver Aquarium and totem poles.
- Granville Island: A cultural hub with a bustling public market, artisanal shops, dining, art galleries, and live performances.
- Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: Known for its 450-foot suspension bridge, visitors can also explore the Cliff Walk and Treetops Adventure amid stunning rainforest views.
- Grouse Mountain: A year-round outdoor destination offering skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and panoramic views via the Skyride gondola.
- Vancouver Aquarium: Located in Stanley Park, it features interactive exhibits and houses thousands of marine animals.
