Page last updated: 2 January 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, an average of 10 million tourists visit Vancouver.
- Vancouver’s tourism peaked in 2019 with over 11 million visitors. Visitations declined due to the pandemic reaching 4.5 million in 2020.1
- In 2021, the industry began to recover, with 6 million visitors and figures continued to increase with 8 million tourists visiting Vancouver in 2022.
- In 2023, visitors to Vancouver totalled 9.5 million visitors, indicating an increase of 19% from the previous year.2
How many tourists visited Vancouver in 2023?
- In 2023, a total of 9.5 million tourists visited Vancouver, a 19% increase in visitors from 2022.
How much do tourists spend in Vancouver each year?
In 2023, visitors spent a total of $4 billion in Vancouver.
- Tourist spending reached $5.5 billion in 2019. However, due to the pandemic, spending dropped by 67% to $1.8 billion in 2020.
- In 2021, spending increased by 39% to $2.5 billion. Spending rose further in 2022 to $3.5 billion.
- Tourist spending reached $4 billion in 2023, reflecting a 14% increase from 2022 but still 27% below the 2019 peak.
How much did tourists spend in Vancouver in 2023?
- In 2023, tourists spent $4 billion in Vancouver, reflecting a 14% increase compared to 2022, but this was still 27.27% below the pre-pandemic peak of $5.5 billion.
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.
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.
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.
