Fairmont Vancouver Airport
Vancouver, Canada
- Inside the International Terminal
- Featuring Absolute Spa
- Award winning Globe @ YVR Restaurant
- Afternoon tea
So, where next?
Surrounded by sandy beaches and spectacular mountains, Vancouver combines the best of outdoor life with a vibrant and cosmopolitan city. Set off on an outdoors adventure with a holiday to Vancouver, and see another side of Canada.
Essential information for Vancouver
Time Zone
UK - 8 hours
Language
English
Currency
Canadian Dollar $
Flight time
10 hours
Flight schedule
Indirect flight. Flights available with Virgin Atlantic partner airlines
Do I need a visa
Yes. If you’re arriving into or transiting through Canada by air from either the UK or another destination e.g. the USA, you’ll need an eTA.
Not to be missed
Perhaps one of the best things to do in Vancouver is to orientate yourself on a sightseeing tour. Buy yourself a pass, valid for 2 days, on the Hop On Hop Off Trolley and explore at your own pace the delights of Gastown, Chinatown, Stanley Park, Granville Island, Robson Street, English Bay and more.
This is Vancouver: Where extraordinary is everywhere
Hotels in Vancouver
Fairmont Hotel Vancouver
Vancouver, Canada
5,122 reviews4 stars
- Luxury world-class hotel
- 1930s style Notch8 Restaurant & Bar
- In the heart of the city
- Indoor heated swimming pool
Fairmont Pacific Rim
Vancouver, Canada
4,398 reviews- Close to Coal Harbour, with marina view and waterside restaurants
- Willow Stream Spa
- Outdoor rooftop pool with hot tub
- Sushi bar
Hotel Belmont Vancouver Mgallery
Vancouver, Canada
198 reviews3.5 stars
- Boutique style hotel with a party vibe
- Basement nightclub
- Located in the heart of Vancouver's entertainment district
Hyatt Regency Vancouver
Vancouver, Canada
6,423 reviews4 stars
- In the heart of Downtown Vancouver
- Mosaic Grille and Bar
- Starbucks
- Outdoor heated swimming pool
Residence Inn Vancouver Downtown By Marriott
Vancouver, Canada
1,606 reviews3.5 stars
- In downtown Vancouver, close to Yaletown
- All-suite property
- Complimentary breakfast buffet
- Indoor pool and whirlpoo
Westin Bayshore Vancouver
Vancouver, Canada
4,266 reviews4.5 stars
- WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio
- Spa
- On-site dining options
- Fabulous Coal Harbour location
Need more travel tips or holiday help?
What month is best to visit Vancouver?
What month is best to visit Vancouver?
June to September is when Vancouver truly shines. Expect sunshine, buzzing festivals, and the city’s stunning natural beauty in full bloom—perfect for hiking, biking, and sipping cocktails by the harbour.
What are the best tourist attractions in Vancouver?
What are the best tourist attractions in Vancouver?
Stanley Park’s seawall strolls, Granville Island’s foodie heaven, Capilano Suspension Bridge’s treetop thrills, and Grouse Mountain’s epic views—Vancouver's got postcard moments at every turn.
How long is the flight to Vancouver from the UK?
How long is the flight to Vancouver from the UK?
You’re looking at around 9 to 10 hours direct from London—just enough time for a movie marathon and a nap before touching down in scenic British Columbia.
Is Vancouver a good holiday destination?
Is Vancouver a good holiday destination?
Absolutely! Vancouver is where mountains meet ocean, city meets nature, and adventure meets luxury. Whether you're a foodie, a hiker, or a culture lover, there’s something here with your name on it.
Is Vancouver a walkable city?
Is Vancouver a walkable city?
Yes! Vancouver is super walkable, especially downtown. You can easily explore shops, parks, beaches, and bars—all on foot. Plus, the views make every stroll feel like a mini-adventure.
Do I need a car in Vancouver?
Do I need a car in Vancouver?
Not really! With a fab public transport system, bike hire options, and pedestrian-friendly streets, getting around is a breeze. Save the car rental for exploring beyond the city, like Whistler or wine country.
What is Vancouver best known for?
What is Vancouver best known for?
Nature and culture—Vancouver blends jaw-dropping landscapes with a buzzing urban vibe. It’s famous for mountain-meets-ocean views, world-class sushi, and a laid-back, eco-friendly lifestyle.
Highlights of Vancouver
Vancouver culture and sightseeing
Vancouver culture and sightseeing
- Hop on the Vancouver Trolley to see historic Gastown, Chinatown, Granville Island, Stanley Park, The West End and other key sights.
- Explore Beacon Hill Park, the historic James Bay and North America’s second oldest Chinatown in the provincial capital of Victoria, on Vancouver Island. Walk down Fan Tan Alley, the city’s narrowest street at just 0.9 metres wide.
Wildlife and adventure in Vancouver
Wildlife and adventure in Vancouver
- Take a Floatplane to Vancouver Island and board a Zodiac vessel to go whale watching.
- Head to Grouse Mountain and take a one-mile aerial journey above the forest on Skyride.
- Explore Butchart Gardens, Victoria, home to the world’s greatest floral displays.
- Enjoy a family day out at Vancouver Aquarium, the largest of its kind in Canada.
Luxury holidays in Vancouver
Luxury holidays in Vancouver
- Follow in the footsteps of Katharine Hepburn and Hollywood stars at the art deco Rosewood Hotel Georgia.
- Get some retail therapy on Robson Street or treat yourself in Yaletown’s fashion boutiques.
Best places to eat in Vancouver
Best places to eat in Vancouver
- Dine on fresh salmon sushi, explore world cuisine and see live cooking shows at Granville Island Public Market and visit Canada’s first microbrewery.
- Dine at the eponymous restaurant of David Hawksworth — a top Vancouver chef at the Rosewood Hotel.
Vancouver events and festivals
Vancouver events and festivals
- January–February: The city hosts the International Performing Arts Festivals (PuSh).
- June: The Vancouver Dragon boat Festival and colourful ceremonies take place.
- October: The Writers Fest brings writers and poets to Granville Island.
