13 day itinerary for Vancouver

Itinerary

A 13-day adventure in and around Vancouver, with visits to Banff and Jasper, sounds like a fantastic journey! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances city exploration, stunning national parks, and some lovely green spaces. Buckle up for a road trip filled with breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences!

## Day 1: Arrival in Vancouver

• Morning: Arrive in Vancouver. Check into your hotel or Airbnb.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around Stanley Park. Don’t miss the Seawall and the totem poles!
• Evening: Head to Granville Island for dinner. Explore the public market and enjoy some local cuisine.

## Day 2: Explore Vancouver

• Morning: Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Walk across the bridge and explore the treetop walkways.
• Afternoon: Head to Grouse Mountain. Take the Skyride for stunning views and, if you’re up for it, hike the Grouse Grind!
• Evening: Dinner in the North Shore area, perhaps at a cozy restaurant with mountain views.

## Day 3: Vancouver to Banff

• Morning: Start your road trip to Banff (about 9 hours). Grab breakfast and hit the road early!
• Afternoon: Stop for lunch in Kamloops. Continue your drive, enjoying the scenic views along the way.
• Evening: Arrive in Banff. Check into your accommodation and unwind. Dinner in town at a local eatery.

## Day 4: Explore Banff National Park

• Morning: Visit Lake Louise. Take a walk around the lake and enjoy the stunning views.
• Afternoon: Head to Moraine Lake (if accessible) for some breathtaking photography.
• Evening: Return to Banff for dinner. Explore the charming downtown area.

## Day 5: More of Banff

• Morning: Take the Banff Gondola for panoramic views of the Rockies.
• Afternoon: Visit Bow Valley Parkway and stop at Johnston Canyon for a hike to the waterfalls.
• Evening: Relax at the Banff Upper Hot Springs to soak in the natural hot springs.

## Day 6: Banff to Jasper

• Morning: Depart for Jasper (about 3.5 hours). Take the Icefields Parkway for one of the most scenic drives in the world!
• Afternoon: Stop at Peyto Lake and Athabasca Falls along the way.
• Evening: Arrive in Jasper. Check into your accommodation and enjoy dinner in town.

## Day 7: Explore Jasper National Park

• Morning: Visit Maligne Lake. Consider taking a boat tour to Spirit Island.
• Afternoon: Explore Maligne Canyon with its stunning rock formations and waterfalls.
• Evening: Dinner in Jasper. If you’re up for it, look for a stargazing spot; Jasper is a Dark Sky Preserve!

## Day 8: More of Jasper

• Morning: Hike the Valley of the Five Lakes for beautiful scenery and a moderate trail.
• Afternoon: Visit Jasper SkyTram for incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
• Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner and perhaps catch a local event or live music.

## Day 9: Jasper to Vancouver

• Morning: Start your journey back to Vancouver (about 8 hours). Take your time and enjoy the drive.
• Afternoon: Stop for lunch in Revelstoke or Golden.
• Evening: Arrive back in Vancouver. Check into your accommodation and have a low-key dinner.

## Day 10: Vancouver Day Trip to Whistler

• Morning: Drive to Whistler (about 1.5 hours). Explore the village and grab breakfast.
• Afternoon: Take the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for stunning views and some hiking options.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in Whistler before heading back to Vancouver.

## Day 11: Explore More of Vancouver

• Morning: Visit Queen Elizabeth Park for beautiful gardens and city views.
• Afternoon: Head to VanDusen Botanical Garden for a peaceful stroll among the flora.
• Evening: Dinner in the West End or Yaletown area, perhaps at a waterfront restaurant.

## Day 12: Day Trip to Victoria

• Morning: Take a ferry to Victoria (about 1.5 hours). Visit the Butchart Gardens.
• Afternoon: Explore the Royal BC Museum and stroll around the Inner Harbour.
• Evening: Return to Vancouver and enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant.

## Day 13: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute shopping or a walk along the waterfront.
• Afternoon: Check out of your accommodation and head to the airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A delightful 13-day itinerary that combines the best of Vancouver, Banff, and Jasper, with plenty of parks and green spaces to enjoy along the way. Make sure to pack your camera, as you’ll want to capture all the stunning landscapes! Safe travels! 🌲🏞️🚗