10 Days in Vancouver & Victoria
 

My wife and I (both seniors) will have 10 days to spend in Vancouver and Victoria. We won't have a car, but are capable of walking considerable distances. We are interested in culture, arts,as well as whales. We are seeking advice regarding how to split our hotel stays (5 days in each city, 6 in one, 4 in another, etc.); what bus tours, ferry trips, and local sites would you recommend? Thanks for your advvice and info.

Hi HaroldW,

10 days is a nice amount of time: I'd give 5 days to Vancouver, 3 days to Victoria. Both are readily workable without a car; I don't have one so enjoyed both without. With 10 days, you might be able to incorporate something else or you could just tack on some days in either Vancouver or Victoria if you'd rather just keep things relaxing. All do-able without a car and not too far: perhaps one of the Gulf Islands (Salt Spring?), perhaps Seattle, perhaps Whistler? I've only been to the middle of these three, which I enjoyed very much.

My favourites in Victoria: I thought Butchart Gardens a sight to behold, cycling on Dallas Rd. by the Juan de Fuca Strait just glorious, the ambience at the Inner Harbour with the buskers a lot of fun and the Royal BC Museum an excellent showcase of Pacific First Nations cultures.

My favourites in Vancouver: Exploring West End, soaking up the vibe by English Bay Beach/Stanley Park/Kitsilano, hiking through temperate rain forest by Wreck Beach/on Bowen Island, taking the funicular up Grouse Mountain. Amazing the nature that's accessible even by public transit!

Have a great trip! Daniel

The following link lists a wonderful array of things to do in Vancouver's Little Mountain area. It is easily accessible via the skytrain or by bus. Don't miss the Bloedel Conservatory on top of the mountain situated in Queen Elizabeth Park.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/...best-kept%20tr

Yep, 5 days in Vancouver sounds about right. Then we could do stay in Victoria for 2-3 days and add another destination to your trip. How are you planning to get from Vancouver to Victoria or vice versa?