Vancouver really has it all. Combining an urban getaway with outdoor adventure, Canada’s third largest city is a multicultural hub full of museums and galleries that is also a popular homeport for Alaska cruises and stunning scenery. You’ll find plenty of things to do in Vancouver.

For more than 30 years, Vancouver has been the only homeport offering over twenty one-way and round-trip itineraries through the picturesque Inside Passage—along the west coast of British Columbia, to Alaska. As the closest homeport to Alaskan waters, departing from Vancouver is the best option to spend ample time in Skagway, Ketchikan, Juneau and Glacier Bay. There’s something for someone no matter what time of the year you are travelling. From May to October, most cruises departing from Vancouver head to Alaska, but throughout the rest of the year, there are also select sailings to California and Hawaii.

Cruise ships dock right in downtown Vancouver at Canada Place, providing easy access to hotels, sightseeing and restaurants without requiring a transfer into the city. Some of our favorite accommodations include the Fairmont Pacific Rim, Fairmont Waterfront, Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver and OPUS Hotel Vancouver. Quick tip: both the Fairmont Waterfront and Fairmont Pacific Rim are walking distance from the cruise terminal. To truly enjoy the cosmopolitan city and all of its natural beauty, the recommended minimum length of stay is 3-4 nights.

Don’t forget to pack your camera because you will want to capture all of Vancouver’s beauty and lush landscape. The city is surrounded by the glimmering Pacific Ocean, but there’s plenty of rainforest and a mix of mountains to fawn over. Thank goodness for complimentary shuttles from Canada Place to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and Grouse Mountain to take in all the sights. Alongside your camera, be sure to bring a pair of good walking shoes. The city is very walkable and offers cycling tours in Stanley Park: you will want to travel by foot to explore the multicultural and diverse culinary scene amongst the neighborhoods. If walking isn’t for you, there’s hop-on hop-off tours available. If you’re in the mood for something different, also experience whale watching tours and the zodiac boat sea safari tours showing off the stunning waters.

After all that walking and traveling, you will have worked up an appetite. Good thing Vancouver’s lauded chefs have you covered. From local sushi cafes to high-end seafood restaurants, there’s something for everything based on individual budget and tastes. For foodies, there are even culinary tours available through Granville Island Public Market. Travelling during January? You’re in luck! The annual Dine Out Vancouver Festival features set-priced venus at top restaurants, gourmet tours, and classes. After all that eating, pair it with a nightcap at one of the cocktail bars or spirited pubs. You may even want to lean towards a jazz performance or dance club to show off those moves.