Looking for your next travel destination? Consider Vancouver, a vibrant city nestled between lush mountains and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Already famed for its natural beauty, diverse culture, and year-round outdoor adventures, Vancouver is set to be one of the most exciting places to visit in 2025. Whether you're a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or a lover of art and culture, Vancouver promises an unforgettable experience.

Keep reading to find out why this coastal gem deserves a spot on your 2025 travel itinerary!

Why Vancouver Is a Must-See Destination in 2025

Vancouver is no stranger to topping the charts as one of the world’s most liveable cities. But 2025 will take the city to another level. Here's why you should add a Vancouver holiday to your bucket list.

A City Bursting with Natural Beauty

Few cities blend urban sophistication with breathtaking natural landscapes like Vancouver. Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountain range, you can enjoy panoramic waterfront views or lush green mountain trails—all within a short commute.

Don't miss:

  • Stanley Park: This iconic urban park is larger than New York’s Central Park and offers stunning coastal views, ancient cedar trees, and a picturesque seawall perfect for cycling or walking.
  • Grouse Mountain: Known as “the Peak of Vancouver,” this mountain retreat offers year-round activities, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to ziplining and hiking in the summer.
  • English Bay: Relax on sandy beaches or enjoy a sunset paddle as you take in the bustling city skyline behind you.
View of Stanley Park
View of Stanley Park & Vancouver


2025’s Hot Travel Events

If you're looking for an excuse to visit this magnificent city in 2025 look no further, the year ahead will be packed with unmissable events in Vancouver such as:

The Celebration of Light Festival

The Honda Celebration of Light, the world’s largest offshore fireworks competition, returns to English Bay in the summer of 2025. Expect dazzling light displays accompanied by live music, food trucks, and thousands of revellers soaking up the atmosphere.

Vancouver International Film Festival

2025 marks the 45th anniversary of the internationally acclaimed Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF). Film buffs can enjoy screenings of thought-provoking documentaries, indie hits, and festival premières, as well as Q&A panels with industry leaders.

Indigenous Cultural Showcase

With Indigenous art and culture taking centre stage in recent years, 2025 will see a city-wide celebration spotlighting First Nations artists. Expect pop-up galleries, storytelling sessions, and culinary showcases that honour the area’s deep cultural roots.

Firework display off the coast of Vancouver
Celebration of Light firework display

A Foodie’s Paradise

Vancouver is a haven for food lovers. Its coastal location means the freshest seafood imaginable, while the city's multicultural population ensures a vibrant food scene spanning continents.

Must-try foodie experiences:

  • Seafood heaven: Indulge in world-class sushi or feast on local delicacies like Pacific salmon and spot prawns.
  • Farmers’ markets: Stroll through Granville Island’s iconic Public Market or Trout Lake Farmer's Market and find everything from blueberries to artisanal cheeses.
  • Asian cuisine: Known as the city with the best Asian dining scene in North America, don’t miss authentic dim sum in Chinatown or ramen joints scattered throughout the city.

Iconic Neighbourhood Explorations

Vancouver is a collection of charming, distinct neighbourhoods, each offering something unique:

  • Gastown: Walk along cobblestone streets in this historic district lined with trendy boutiques, coffee shops, and the famous steam clock.
  • Kitsilano ("Kits"): Perfect for beach lovers, Kits boasts laid-back vibes, scenic waterfront views, and some of the city’s best independent shops and bistros.
  • Mount Pleasant: Famed for its street art, breweries, and quirky eateries, this is a hotspot for creatives and young professionals.

Eco-Friendly Tourism

Vancouver is a pioneering green city and an advocate for sustainable tourism. Its three-pronged strategy of being eco-conscious, fostering inclusivity, and preserving natural beauty means travellers can experience a low-impact city adventure like no other.

Travel smarter by exploring public transport or renting one of Vancouver's many easily accessible bikes to pedal through its eco-friendly urban areas.

Ideal for Year-Round Travel

No matter the season, Vancouver always has something extraordinary to offer:

  • Winter: Hit the slopes at Grouse Mountain or take a day trip to nearby Whistler, home to some of Canada’s best skiing.
  • Spring: Wander through blooming cherry blossoms that line the city’s streets and parks.
  • Summer: Enjoy outdoor patios, beaches, and hiking trails in the warm sunshine.
  • Autumn: Experience the city’s parks draped in vibrant red and gold foliage—a perfect backdrop for Insta-worthy snapshots.
Vancouver's cherry blossoms
Vancouver's cherry blossoms

Seamless Accessibility

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) makes visiting this city a breeze. Recognised as one of the best airports in North America, YVR offers convenient connections to global cities, ensuring you're never far from Vancouver adventures.

For a stress-free trip, consider using Canada's efficient rail and coach services for day trips to nearby gems like Victoria, the Okanagan Valley, and the iconic Rockies. 

Vancouver is Calling

Vancouver has always been a city that embraces its natural beauty and diverse culture, and 2025 is shaping up to be its most exciting year yet. From the range of exciting events in 2025 to the timeless appeal of its scenic wonders, this coastal city promises an experience like no other.

What are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Vancouver today and uncover why it’s repeatedly ranked as one of the world’s best places to visit.

Interested in a trip to Vancouver in 2025? You can visit the city as part of a wider holiday to Canada, or you can check out our Vancouver holidays page and look at booking a city break. Contact us today to start planning your trip today.

Latest Articles

Let's make your dream holiday to Canada a reality


Our expert team have travelled Canada from coast to coast and can't wait to share their personalised recommendations with you.

Get in touch

Our commitment to responsible travel


We are committed to sustainable travel from carbon offsetting to supporting local communities and so much more.

Find out more

Follow Us for offers & inspiration