Modern glass buildings on the waterfront and imposing mountains in the backdrop: the beauty of Vancouver is undeniable. While no photo can do the city perfect justice, you’ll easily find some Instagram-worthy views.
To help you take the perfect photo, we’ve put together a list of ten of the places with the best views of Vancouver and its surrounding areas.
- Queen Elizabeth Park
The highest point in Vancouver, Queen Elizabeth Park is the perfect place to enjoy a sensational view of the city of Vancouver and the North Shore Mountains looming in the distance. Take advantage of being there to take some photos of the incredible quarries converted into gardens and the Bloedel Conservatory, where a multitude of flowers, trees, birds and sculptures are showcased.
- Charleson Park
Walk the many winding paths of Charleson Park towards the famous coastal promenade. After going around a waterfall and a pond, you will discover the skyline of the city center, more grandiose and more dazzling than ever. You can capture in a photo the sun’s rays reflecting off the buildings, the boats crossing False Creek and the cyclists making the most of the ride.
- Prospect Point
Stanley Park is a bit like Vancouver’s Central Park: a green oasis in the heart of the big city. The park, particularly the Prospect Point Lookout, also offers incredible views of the city’s inner harbor and the Lions Gate Bridge. You should also take advantage of being there to walk along the coastal promenade and take a photo of the Siwash rock, a must-see on Instagram.
- Jericho Beach
Believe it or not, Vancouver is a major “beach city” – one of the ten most beautiful in the world according to National Geographic. Jericho Beach in the Point Gray neighborhood is a popular spot for those who enjoy sunbathing, playing beach volleyball, and admiring the big city while lounging on the warm sand.
Lonsdale Quay – Photo: Tavis Ford under CC BY 2.0
- Lonsdale Quay
A quick ferry ride from the city center will take you to Lonsdale Quay. This waterfront, with its famous market and countless shops, offers magnificent views of Vancouver, on the opposite shore. While there, don’t forget to photograph the gigantic letter “Q” which dominates the quay.
- High View Lookout from Cypress Mountain
It’s hard to find anything better than the High View Lookout when you want to see everything — yes, yes — all of Vancouver. This lookout, located just off the road leading to the Cypress Mountain ski resort in West Vancouver, allows you to admire landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see, well beyond the city. After taking a beautiful panoramic photo, head to the mountains to explore the hiking trails (summer) or the ski slopes (winter).
Grouse Mountain – Photo: Greg Funnell
- Grouse Mountain
Grouse Mountain is another ski resort, located in the famous North Shore Mountains near Vancouver. Whether you climb the famous Grouse Grind hiking trail, take a ride on the gondola, or snowboard down a few slopes, you’ll enjoy incredible views of the city to the south.
- The Cactus Club of Coal Harbor
The Cactus Club in Coal Harbor is certainly one of the city’s most popular restaurants for visitors, and its tasty menu is just one of the reasons for this popularity. Others? An exceptional view of Vancouver Harbour, Stanley Park, the North Shore mountains, and even the Olympic flame site.
- Vancouver Lookout and Top of Vancouver
Every big city has one: the Top of Vancouver is a revolving restaurant offering 360-degree panoramic views of the city. As it’s located atop the Harbor Center on the edge of trendy Gastown, you can take in the views with a drink or fork in hand. You can also just go to the Vancouver Lookout to take photos.
- Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Pacific Rim
What’s better than a hotel room with a view? A hotel spa with a view! The 790 m2 Willow Stream Spa is located on the fifth floor of the Fairmont Pacific Rim and features a terrace with stunning views of downtown Vancouver, the waterfront and the mountains. It also features nine treatment rooms, where you can relax in a deep Japanese bathtub, get a manicure and pedicure, and much more.
