15 Day Trips from Vancouver: How to Explore Without a Car
Have you already covered the main attractions on your Vancouver itinerary and are looking to explore beyond the city? If you’re spending more than 3 days here, it’s a great opportunity to take a few outdoorsy day trips from Vancouver. You can reach all of them without a car, which allows you to relax while someone else handles the driving.
If you’re a nature lover, you’ll find that even a full week isn’t enough to visit all the beautiful places outside Vancouver. The list below includes 15 day trips from Vancouver suited for anyone traveling without a car and looking to experience the outdoors using public transit.
How to Visit Vancouver without a Car
If you’re visiting for 3 days or longer, you might want to explore some outdoor places outside Vancouver. The best part? You don’t need a car to do it. In fact, all 15 day trips from Vancouver listed below are easily accessible without a car.
How to Use Public Transit (Bus & SkyTrain) in Vancouver
When I first moved to Vancouver, fresh off 2 months of backpacking in South America, I relied entirely on public transit to get around and head out hiking. While the system isn’t quite as extensive as in some European cities, Vancouver still offers a surprisingly efficient and well-connected network. If you’re staying in Downtown Vancouver, you’ll be within easy reach of major SkyTrain lines, bus routes, as well as the SeaBus, which takes you directly across the harbor to North Vancouver.
- Tickets: Compass Card (buy at one of the vending machines at a SkyTrain station); or pay with a contactless credit card.
- How to search for a route: put your destination on Google Maps and switch to public transit to see all the available connections.
- Good to Know: you can transfer across bus, SkyTrain and SeaBus on a single fare for up to 90 min.
How to Travel by Ferry in Vancouver
If you’re planning to visit Granville Island or Kitsilano, take one of the False Creek Ferries for a scenic route. But for longer adventures, BC Ferries can take you beyond the city to explore nearby islands and coastal gems. From Horseshoe Bay or Tsawwassen Terminal, you can easily plan trips to places like Victoria on Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, or Bowen Island. All are perfect day trips from Vancouver without a car.
Cycling is a Great Alternative to Visit Places Outside Vancouver
Vancouver is one of the most bike-friendly cities in North America. You can even use Mobi, Vancouver’s bike-sharing program, with convenient pickup and drop-off locations throughout the city. Just keep in mind that the “Pay Per Ride” option can get pricey if you’re cycling for more than 30 minutes. If you plan to ride for longer, it’s more cost-effective to rent a bike for a half or full day from one of the many local rental shops.
Bike Rentals in Vancouver: you can rent a bike starting at $7/hour at Freedom Bikes, Bikes and Blades, Yes Cycle and Spokes Bicycle Rental.
15 Day Trips From Vancouver Without a Car
These 15 day trips from Vancouver are perfect for anyone visiting without a car. You can enjoy the outdoors, mountains and nature by simply hopping on a bus, train or ferry. When I first moved to Vancouver, after my 2 month backpacking trip in South America, I only used public transit to explore the neighboring areas.
Enjoy the Panoramic Views of Howe Sound from Tunnel Bluffs
Transit Info: from Downtown Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay bus #257, #253 or #250. Here change to get on bus #262 to Lions Bay.
When someone comes to visit me, Tunnel Bluffs is always on my Vancouver itinerary. Not only is the trailhead easy to reach by public transit, but the views over Howe Sound are absolutely breathtaking. For even better views, hike to Tunnel Bluffs for sunset. Just make sure to bring a headlamp for the hike back down, since it’ll likely be getting dark by the time you’re heading out.
If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, you can continue up to Brunswick Mountain. But, I would not recommend this hike to beginners.
Go Kayaking or Hiking in Deep Cove
Transit Info: bus #211 from Downtown Vancouver
Deep Cove is one of my favorite day trips from Vancouver. Here, you can decide whether to go kayaking in the Indian Arm, hike to Quarry Rock or stop for a doughnut at Honey’s Doughnuts. The bonus point for taking the bus to Deep Cove is not having to pay for parking.
Explore Grouse Mountain, Vancouver’s Local Mountain
Transit Info: Seabus from Waterfront Station to Lonsdale Quay (North Vancouver), then take bus #236 directly to Grouse Mountain. In summer, there is also a free shuttle leaving from Canada Place.
Whether you hike the Grouse Grind to the summit or opt for the scenic gondola ride, Grouse Mountain is one of the must-do day trips from Vancouver. At the top, treat yourself to a refreshing drink at the café (my favorite is the Talily Kombucha) and soak in the stunning views of the city below. Don’t forget to visit the mountain’s most famous residents: two rescued grizzly bears who’ve called Grouse home since 2001.
Local Tip: if you’re up for a challenge and want to visit like a local, hike Grouse Grind, take a refreshing drink at the top and hike back down on BCMC trail. Alternatively, take the gondola down. Funny enough, I’ve met hikers who were already on their third, or even fourth, loop of the mountain in a single day!
Experience the Suspension Bridge at Lynn Canyon Park
Transit Info: SeaBus to Lonsdale Quay, then take either bus #228 or #229. You can also take the direct bus #210 from Downtown Vancouver.
If you’re looking for a great alternative to the popular (and pricey!) Capilano Suspension Bridge, head to Lynn Canyon Park. There, you can enjoy a beautiful forest hike and cross a suspension bridge all for free. Unless you’re specifically drawn to the themed forest lights around the holidays, there’s really no reason not to choose Lynn Canyon instead.
Check out the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Cleveland Dam
Transit Info: take the free shuttle from Canada Place or bus #246.
Capilano Suspension Bridge is often regarded to as the best attraction in Vancouver. But personally I believe that for $60+ there are other places (such as the Lynn Suspension Bridge!) you can visit for much less or even for free. But, one thing I would definitely not miss is the Cleveland Dam. It’s truly impressive and one of the ideal great trips from Vancouver! From there, you can take a scenic loop hike through mossy forest trails and along the river. It’s especially refreshing on a warm day.
Go on a Day Hike from Vancouver to Norvan Falls
Transit Info: bus #210 from Downtown Vancouver
If you’re looking for a great day hike from Vancouver, Norvan Falls is a great spot. It’s an intermediate hike in North Vancouver that takes about 5 hours round trip. In fact, it’s one of the best day trips from Vancouver when you want to escape the city without going too far. I especially love doing this hike in the winter. When the trees are covered in snow, it feels like walking through a snow globe.
Visit Steveston and Try their Fish & Chips
Transit Info: Skytrain (Canada Line) to Lansdowne Station, then bus #401 or #407
One of my favorite spots for fish and chips in Vancouver is Pajo’s in Steveston. This charming little harbor neighborhood in Richmond is a lot quieter than Granville Island, which makes it perfect for a laid-back afternoon. The seafood is amazing, and after eating, you can stroll over to Garry Point Park to relax by the water and watch the boats go by.
Take the Ferry to Bowen Island
Transit Info: from Downtown Vancouver bus #250 or #257 to Horseshoe Bay, then BC Ferries to Snug Cove
Bowen Island is one of the best day trips from Vancouver. Whether you want to check out some of the restaurants in the cute downtown area, hike to Mt. Gardner or rent a kayak, Bowen Island is a perfect escape. The ferry takes much less compared to Vancouver Island and you can hop on as a walk-on passenger. No need to worry about long lines or the hassle of driving. While reservations are not available, tickets rarely sell out.
Go on a Walk on Burnaby Mountain
Transit Info: bus R5 to SFU Transportation Centre
If you want to feel part of the city but also take a break into the nature, Burnaby Mountain is one of the best options for day trips from Vancouver. There are many trails around the area but my favorite is the ‘Trans Canada, Cougar Creek, Barnet and Mountain Air Loop’.
Head to Sunshine Coast, BC’s Hidden Gem
Transit Info: from Downtown Vancouver bus #250 or #257 to Horseshoe Bay, then BC Ferries to Langdale
Sunshine Coast is often regarded as British Columbia’s hidden gem and makes for an easy weekend trip from Vancouver. It offers a slower, more relaxed pace of life. From peaceful hikes to cozy seaside towns, there’s so much to explore. Check out this post for more ideas on what to do on Sunshine Coast while you’re there.
Hop over to Salt Spring Island for a Day of Exploring
Transit Info: from Downtown Vancouver take Canada Line to Bridgeport, then bus #620 to Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal. Here, you can either hop on a direct ferry or go through Swartz Bay, on Vancouver Island.
Salt Spring Island is a perfect destination for a relaxing weekend trip from Vancouver, offering scenic ferry rides, local markets, and stunning coastal hikes. The island is mainly known for its cheese farm, breweries, wineries, and cidery. So you’re never far from delicious food and refreshing drinks. But it’s not just about the flavors; you can also spend your days hiking scenic trails, kayaking along the coastline or camping with stunning seaside views. For all the details and my favorite spots, check out my full blog post on Salt Spring Island.
Also, if you have some extra time, explore other Gulf Islands, such as Gabriola Island, Mayne Island, Saturna Island.
Take the Sea to Sky Gondola or Hike to the Top
Transit Info: from Waterfront Station take the Squamish Connector
The Sea to Sky Gondola is a popular destination for weekend trips from Vancouver. Soak in the views on a scenic Sea to Sky Highway road trip before reaching your destination. As the name suggests, you’ll start at the sea level to almost reach the sky up the mountains. I did the Sea to Sky Hike but if you prefer a more relaxed option to enjoy the views of Howe Sound, you can take up the gondola. Don’t miss on the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge and the large variety of trails from the top of the mountain.
Go on a Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip to Whistler
Transit Info: from Vancouver Downtown to Whistler Village take Epic Rides or Skylynx. If you land at the YVR Airport and want to go straight to Whistler, Skylynx offers direct connections.
Whistler is not only one of the largest ski resorts in North America but it’s also a popular destination for mountain biking and hiking in summer. As you head north from Vancouver along the stunning Sea to Sky Highway toward Squamish, you’ll reach Whistler in just about two hours.
If skiing isn’t your thing and you want to avoid the busy winter crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season. It’s the perfect weekend getaway or one of the most popular day trips from Vancouver without a car. You can stroll around the charming village, explore the shops at Whistler Creekside, unwind at the Scandinavian Spa and take a ride on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for panoramic views.
Hike to Garibaldi Lake for some of the Best Views in BC
Transit Info: Parkbus connects Downtown Vancouver with Rubble Creek Trailhead, for $95 return.
If you only have time for one hike near Vancouver, make it Garibaldi Lake. To truly experience the breathtaking beauty of British Columbia’s backcountry, you’ll want to venture into the wilderness and visit at least one alpine lake. Truth be told, Garibaldi is one of the best. While the trail isn’t technically difficult, it can feel long and challenging if you’re not used to hiking in the mountains. Starting early and taking your time will make all the difference.
Just remember, you’re in bear country, so carry bear spray and stay alert. And as always, please pack out all your trash to help keep these mountains clean and beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
Discover Port Moody and the Ale Trail
Transit Info: from Vancouver to Commercial-Broadway take Expo Line, then Millennium Line to Moody Centre
Port Moody is one of my favorite places to visit outside Vancouver, famous for its breweries and outdoor activities. Whether you want to kayak on Burrard Inlet, picnic in Rocky Point Park or bike one of the trails, Port Moody won’t disappoint. Don’t miss the Port Moody Ale Trail, which consists of six craft breweries located a short walk from each other.
