Ringed by snow-capped, forested mountains dropping down to miles of sandy beaches, Vancouver is a playground for residents and visitors alike. Against one of the most stunning scenic backdrops of any city in the world, a variety of sophisticated restaurants, leafy parks and lively, earthy brew pubs await. Cosmopolitan Vancouver is ‘young’, just over 100 years old and its outdoor energy complements its easygoing West Coast style.

Walk along the seawall or through forested trails in beautiful Stanley Park, Vancouver's spiritual centre, or view British Columbia depicted in the brilliant canvases of Emily Carr at the Vancouver Art Gallery. After walking the lush tree-lined streets of the West End, ride on a mini-ferry on False Creek.

Visit the designer boutiques of Robson Street and head to the shops lining West 4th Avenue, or wander through the shops of Ambleside in West Vancouver. In addition to the essential Granville Island Public Market, Vancouver has a number of permanent and weekly summer markets stocked with fashions and knick-knacks.

Pubs and clubs are clustered around two entertainment zones. Rub shoulders with the club crowd on Granville Street downtown or do a pub crawl along Water and Pender Streets in Gastown. Yaletown has quickly established itself as a third zone, with swanky cocktail bars and clubs. For more laidback surroundings, relax with beachgoers in Kitsilano and in summer, picnic in Stanley Park and watch the Theatre Under the Stars.