7 DAYS WINTER ADVENTURE IN VANCOUVER & WHISTLER
7 DAYS WINTER ADVENTURE IN VANCOUVER & WHISTLER
Embrace the wonder of winter with a magical 7-day adventure from Vancouver to Whistler. This itinerary takes you from the bustling streets of Vancouver, where seasonal events like the Christmas Market, Robson Square ice skating, and FlyOver Canada’s North Pole experience bring holiday cheer, to the serene beauty of Whistler’s snow-covered landscapes. Explore historic Gastown, walk beneath the lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge, and drive along the breathtaking Sea to Sky Highway, stopping at Shannon Falls and the Sea to Sky Gondola. In Whistler, immerse yourself in Indigenous culture at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, zipline through illuminated old-growth forests, and experience the magic of Vallea Lumina. This itinerary promises both relaxation and adventure, celebrating the holiday spirit across two of Canada’s most enchanting winter destinations.
READ MORE >
Start Location: Vancouver
End Location: Vancouver
TOP HIGHLIGHTS
- Scenic Exploration with a Hop-On-Hop-Off Pass
- FlyOver Canada’s North Pole Experience
- Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
- Vancouver's Festive Events
- Britannia Mine Museum
- Sea to Sky Gondola
- Shannon Falls
- Snowshoeing Adventure
- Vallea Lumina
- Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre
- Ziptrek Winter Après Tour
SAMPLE ITINERARY (CUSTOMIZABLE)
Day 1 - Arrival in Vancouver
Arrive in Vancouver, a vibrant metropolitan city nestled between the mountains, the vast Pacific Ocean, rainforests and scenic parks. Vancouver is a walkable city, and locals take pride in welcoming visitors with clean, safe and vibrant streets. Spend your afternoon exploring the city at your own pace.
Overnight: Vancouver
Day 2 - Hop On Hop Off & FlyOver
Included from today is a 2-day Hop-on-Hop-off Pass, which is a fun and flexible way to see the best of Vancouver! Take a bus, stop at a location, browse around for as long as you want and then hop back onto the next coming bus to move onto the next attraction! You will experience downtown Vancouver at leisure as the bus circles through a series of cultural districts, seaside points of interest, and Stanley Park. During your stop at Canada Place, you have tickets to experience The FlyOver Canada experience. Discover wonder at Flyover, where we ignite your senses and transport you through breathtaking landscapes, captivating stories, and rich cultures. Immerse yourself in the power of unique perspectives, the sensations of flight, and complete sensory engagement as you soar over, around, and through the world's most epic places. Picture yourself with your feet dangling before a massive spherical screen, being transported over iconic locations and natural wonders. The combination of sights, scents, sounds, and precisely programmed motion captures the unmistakable feeling of flight, leaving you with an unforgettable sense of wonder and awe. During the holiday season, Flyover has a special showing where you will visit the North Pole and elves that fly with you throughout your journey. You can also enjoy Christmas lights, a visit with Santa, hot drinks and seasonal holiday treats.In the Afternoon, you can visit the Robson Square Outdoor Ice Rink. Located in the centre of downtown Vancouver, a favourite local activity during winter is ice skating at this rink. This is a great way to have some fun after doing city exploring.If visiting during the festive season you can also visit the Vancouver Christmas Market. This market brings a festive Old World tradition to Vancouver, this cherished holiday event offers an authentic German feast for the senses, where you can stroll the pathways of a European-inspired Christmas village in the crisp winter air. You can find more than 80 artisan huts offering handcrafted gifts and local delicacies. They also have live entertainment, a Christmas carousel and a scavenger hunt for the kids.
Overnight: Vancouver
Day 3 - Gastown Food Tour & Capilano Suspension Bridge
Today you have another day to explore the city using the Hop-on-Hop-Off pass. Visit the Famous Stanley Park and immerse yourself in the 400-hectare West Coast rainforest, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of water, mountains, sky, and towering trees along the iconic Seawall. Explore kilometres of trails, pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and a variety of dining options. The park is rich in natural beauty, cultural and historical landmarks, and offers countless adventures. Stanley Park promises unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages and interests, including a visit to Canada’s largest aquarium. From here, you will take the bus to Gastown for The Gastronomic Gastown Food Tour. Journey through the mysterious and resilient streets of Gastown – Vancouver’s Birthplace. Listen to inspiring stories about locals who are thriving here, and connect with the past, present and future of this neighbourhood. While you’re absorbing the tales, savour three beautiful courses at iconic restaurants known for their culinary prowess.Once the sun begins to go down, explore the Capilano Suspension Bridge Parks’ Canyon.During the winter season, the world famous Capilano Suspension Bridge Park has their Canyon Lights event, which is one of the top light displays in Canada, where you can find multi-colour changing displays on the bridge as you cross an illuminated Capilano River.
Overnight: Vancouver
Day 4 - Britannia Mine Museum & Sea to Sky Gondola
Pick up your rental car and drive north to Whistler, enjoying the breathtaking scenery as you travel along the famous Sea to Sky Highway. You will drive alongside scenic Howe Sound and the Cheakamus Canyon and past the snow-capped peaks of the Tantalus Mountains, before arriving in Whistler Village There are 3 unmissable stops along this drive. The first stop will be visiting the Britannia Mine Museum. Delve into the rich history of British Columbia at the Britannia Mine Museum, once a bustling mining site and now a renowned museum. Explore underground tunnels, try your hand at gold panning, and immerse yourself in the fascinating exhibits that bring this important piece of Canadian history to life. Before reaching the Sea to Sky Gondola, pull into Shannon Falls park where you can park up and walk right up the base of British Colombia’s 3rd tallest waterfall. The next stop takes you to the Sea to Sky Gondola, where a ten-minute ride transports you to 885 meters above sea level. From here, soak in views of Howe Sound, dense coastal forests, and majestic mountains. At the summit, outdoor experiences awaits, from interpretive walking trails to the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. You can then carry on the scenic dive to Whistler, following the Sea to Sky highway.
Overnight: Whistler
Day 5 - Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre & Ziptrek Winter Après Tour
Begin your morning at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, a unique and inspiring venue celebrating the heritage of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations. Located on their shared, ancestral lands, the centre stands as a testament to collaboration, highlighting the cultures of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and Líl̓wat7úl (Lil’wat Nation). The design of the centre itself—a blend of a Squamish Longhouse and a Lil’wat Istken (earthen dwelling)—symbolizes the bond between these Nations and their commitment to preserving and sharing their traditions. After exploring this vibrant cultural hub, make your way to Whistler’s mountain base to gear up for the thrilling Ziptrek Winter Après Tour. A treat for winter adventurers, this tour takes you zipping through an old-growth forest, set aglow by soft twinkle lights as dusk turns to evening. Catch the serene beauty of the alpenglow or perhaps even experience the magic of zipping through fresh snowfall—a truly exhilarating two-hour adventure to kick off your evening in Whistler!
Overnight: Whistler
Day 6 - Snowshoeing & Vallea Lumina
Take the morning to explore Whistler Village at your leisure, enjoying a peaceful walk to Lost Lake or wandering through the picturesque village streets. Later, make your way to the Cougar Mountain base for an immersive snowshoeing adventure. This three-hour guided tour will lead you through the diverse Coast Range forest, where towering Douglas firs, spruces, and ancient western red cedars create a breathtaking winter landscape. Knowledgeable guides will share insights about this rare ecosystem, making this a fascinating journey through one of British Columbia's most unique environments. Afterward, warm up at the Cougar Mountain base camp, where you can enjoy fire pits, hot chocolate, and s’mores kits. Then, get ready for a magical night at Vallea Lumina. Follow mysterious radio transmissions and traces left by two legendary hikers to uncover a scenic, illuminated trail, where Whistler’s enchanting legends come alive under a starlit sky—perfect for ending your winter adventure on a high note.
Overnight: Whistler
Day 7 - Depart Vancouver
Today you take the 2 hour drive back down the Sea to Sky highway to Vancouver where you will return the car and depart.
DATES & PRICES
Availability:
Jan
Feb
Dec
ACCOMMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.
WHY CHOOSE ANDERSON VACATIONS?
Anderson Vacations
Other Companies
Independent Travel
See what you want, where you want, how you want. Solo, with a friend, or with a group of friends.Canadian Travel Experts
With at least 30 years of experience.Min. 95% Satisfaction Rate
From past guests.Accreditation and Consumer Protection
Feel confident booking because of a membership in all the following organizations:
Sustainability
Planting one tree for every passenger that travels with us.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- 6 Nights accomodation
- Attractions as listed
- 2 Day Rental Car
EXCLUSIONS
- Attractions not listed
- Airfare unless specified as included within the itinerary
- Travel Insurance (Ask us for a quote!)
- Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
- Taxes as applicable
Why Take A Custom Tour?
Private & Customizable
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want. A trip that's perfectly timed and well organized.
Unique Experience
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way. Can combine your trip with our group tours. Advice to help you get the most out of your trip.
Freedom to Explore
Time to enjoy and take in each place. Add days in places you want to explore. Do only the activities you want to do.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Our specialists can take away the stress and create a custom trip tailored to your exact interests and budget.
Get A Custom Quote
OR CALL
1.866.814.7378
Custom Trip Plans
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want.
Unique Experiences
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way.
Freedom To Explore
Time to take in each place with only the tours you want to do.
Booking & Flight Questions
Do you arrange airport transfers?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking airport transfers for you! Some tours have airport transfers included already. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Can you assist with booking additional accommodation?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking additional nights of accommodation for you before and/or after your fully escorted tour! Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Can you assist with booking flights?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking your flights for you! We do not recommend you book any flights until you receive your booking confirmation directly from Anderson Vacations Tours, as some tours are not pre-guaranteed. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Is it possible to book a triple share accommodation?
Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire about this option, as pricing may also vary and it will be subject to availability.
Can we book this tour with our exclusive group?
Anderson Vacations Tours can work with private groups to customize a tour to your needs. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Tour Questions
What is the average age of passengers for this tour?
Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+
I am a solo traveler. Is there a single surcharge?
There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo Travelers can choose to pay the single supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share, we also have a Twin Share option that is offered for the majority of our tours. This means you will be sharing the hotel rooms with another single, same gender traveller who also books the Twin Share option. If this is the case, there will be no single supplement charged to either of you. If we are unable to match you with another Twin Share traveler, there may be a single surcharge applied to cover the full cost of the rooms on some of our longer tours. Please enquire before finalizing your booking for full details.
How physically demanding is this tour? Are you able to accommodate people with mobility restrictions/limitations?
This tour has a low level of physical demand, although there may be some activities or sightseeing tours that require walking short distances. Please inquire if you have any mobility restrictions before completing your booking to ensure this tour is right for you.
How much luggage should I bring?
Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for this suitcase is 32 kilograms/60 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages. Please advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of the coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations Tours guidelines.
What is your recommended spending amount for non-included meals?
The suggested allowance for non-included meals is $40.00 — $60.00 CAD per day (includes tipping).
Can you accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions (food allergies, vegan, vegetarian etc.)?
Yes! There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices and arrangements made for you.
Are gratuities included in the tour cost?
For your convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals stated on the itinerary are included in the price of the tour. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 15-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Motorcoach Driver and Tour Director are left to your discretion. We recommend $4.00 - $5.00 CAD per person, per day for your Motorcoach Driver and $6.00 - $7.00 CAD per person, per day for your Tour Director. if you can't find your
TOURS YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
Ready? Have More Questions?
Over 25 years offering custom trips and small group tours.
INQUIRE ABOUT THIS TRIP
OR CALL
1.866.814.7378
Seasoned Tour Guides
Get a deeper understanding with storytelling tailored to your interests.
Space To Breathe
We never max out buses even if we use the same size bus as the competition.
All Inclusive
No hidden expenses along the way. Competitors offer activities as an extra - we don't
DOWNLOAD
Tour Code
7WAVW
7 Days Winter Adventure in Vancouver & Whistler
7 days
Created On: 13 Nov 2024
Highlights
- Scenic Exploration with a Hop-On-Hop-Off Pass
- FlyOver Canada’s North Pole Experience
- Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
- Vancouver's Festive Events
- Britannia Mine Museum
- Sea to Sky Gondola
- Shannon Falls
- Snowshoeing Adventure
- Vallea Lumina
- Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre
- Ziptrek Winter Après Tour
Inclusions
- 6 Nights accomodation
- Attractions as listed
- 2 Day Rental Car
Exclusions
- Attractions not listed
- Airfare unless specified as included within the itinerary
- Travel Insurance (Ask us for a quote!)
- Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
- Taxes as applicable
Dates & Prices
ACCOMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
Moderate Accomodation
Vancouver
Vancouver
$1,380 USD
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrival in Vancouver
Arrive in Vancouver, a vibrant metropolitan city nestled between the mountains, the vast Pacific Ocean, rainforests and scenic parks. Vancouver is a walkable city, and locals take pride in welcoming visitors with clean, safe and vibrant streets. Spend your afternoon exploring the city at your own pace.
Overnight: Vancouver
Day 2 - Hop On Hop Off & FlyOver
Included from today is a 2-day Hop-on-Hop-off Pass, which is a fun and flexible way to see the best of Vancouver! Take a bus, stop at a location, browse around for as long as you want and then hop back onto the next coming bus to move onto the next attraction! You will experience downtown Vancouver at leisure as the bus circles through a series of cultural districts, seaside points of interest, and Stanley Park. During your stop at Canada Place, you have tickets to experience The FlyOver Canada experience. Discover wonder at Flyover, where we ignite your senses and transport you through breathtaking landscapes, captivating stories, and rich cultures. Immerse yourself in the power of unique perspectives, the sensations of flight, and complete sensory engagement as you soar over, around, and through the world's most epic places. Picture yourself with your feet dangling before a massive spherical screen, being transported over iconic locations and natural wonders. The combination of sights, scents, sounds, and precisely programmed motion captures the unmistakable feeling of flight, leaving you with an unforgettable sense of wonder and awe. During the holiday season, Flyover has a special showing where you will visit the North Pole and elves that fly with you throughout your journey. You can also enjoy Christmas lights, a visit with Santa, hot drinks and seasonal holiday treats.In the Afternoon, you can visit the Robson Square Outdoor Ice Rink. Located in the centre of downtown Vancouver, a favourite local activity during winter is ice skating at this rink. This is a great way to have some fun after doing city exploring.If visiting during the festive season you can also visit the Vancouver Christmas Market. This market brings a festive Old World tradition to Vancouver, this cherished holiday event offers an authentic German feast for the senses, where you can stroll the pathways of a European-inspired Christmas village in the crisp winter air. You can find more than 80 artisan huts offering handcrafted gifts and local delicacies. They also have live entertainment, a Christmas carousel and a scavenger hunt for the kids.
Overnight: Vancouver
Day 3 - Gastown Food Tour & Capilano Suspension Bridge
Today you have another day to explore the city using the Hop-on-Hop-Off pass. Visit the Famous Stanley Park and immerse yourself in the 400-hectare West Coast rainforest, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of water, mountains, sky, and towering trees along the iconic Seawall. Explore kilometres of trails, pristine beaches, diverse wildlife, and a variety of dining options. The park is rich in natural beauty, cultural and historical landmarks, and offers countless adventures. Stanley Park promises unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages and interests, including a visit to Canada’s largest aquarium. From here, you will take the bus to Gastown for The Gastronomic Gastown Food Tour. Journey through the mysterious and resilient streets of Gastown – Vancouver’s Birthplace. Listen to inspiring stories about locals who are thriving here, and connect with the past, present and future of this neighbourhood. While you’re absorbing the tales, savour three beautiful courses at iconic restaurants known for their culinary prowess.Once the sun begins to go down, explore the Capilano Suspension Bridge Parks’ Canyon.During the winter season, the world famous Capilano Suspension Bridge Park has their Canyon Lights event, which is one of the top light displays in Canada, where you can find multi-colour changing displays on the bridge as you cross an illuminated Capilano River.
Overnight: Vancouver
Day 4 - Britannia Mine Museum & Sea to Sky Gondola
Pick up your rental car and drive north to Whistler, enjoying the breathtaking scenery as you travel along the famous Sea to Sky Highway. You will drive alongside scenic Howe Sound and the Cheakamus Canyon and past the snow-capped peaks of the Tantalus Mountains, before arriving in Whistler Village There are 3 unmissable stops along this drive. The first stop will be visiting the Britannia Mine Museum. Delve into the rich history of British Columbia at the Britannia Mine Museum, once a bustling mining site and now a renowned museum. Explore underground tunnels, try your hand at gold panning, and immerse yourself in the fascinating exhibits that bring this important piece of Canadian history to life. Before reaching the Sea to Sky Gondola, pull into Shannon Falls park where you can park up and walk right up the base of British Colombia’s 3rd tallest waterfall. The next stop takes you to the Sea to Sky Gondola, where a ten-minute ride transports you to 885 meters above sea level. From here, soak in views of Howe Sound, dense coastal forests, and majestic mountains. At the summit, outdoor experiences awaits, from interpretive walking trails to the Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. You can then carry on the scenic dive to Whistler, following the Sea to Sky highway.
Overnight: Whistler
Day 5 - Squamish Lil\'wat Cultural Centre & Ziptrek Winter Après Tour
Begin your morning at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, a unique and inspiring venue celebrating the heritage of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations. Located on their shared, ancestral lands, the centre stands as a testament to collaboration, highlighting the cultures of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and Líl̓wat7úl (Lil’wat Nation). The design of the centre itself—a blend of a Squamish Longhouse and a Lil’wat Istken (earthen dwelling)—symbolizes the bond between these Nations and their commitment to preserving and sharing their traditions. After exploring this vibrant cultural hub, make your way to Whistler’s mountain base to gear up for the thrilling Ziptrek Winter Après Tour. A treat for winter adventurers, this tour takes you zipping through an old-growth forest, set aglow by soft twinkle lights as dusk turns to evening. Catch the serene beauty of the alpenglow or perhaps even experience the magic of zipping through fresh snowfall—a truly exhilarating two-hour adventure to kick off your evening in Whistler!
Overnight: Whistler
Day 6 - Snowshoeing & Vallea Lumina
Take the morning to explore Whistler Village at your leisure, enjoying a peaceful walk to Lost Lake or wandering through the picturesque village streets. Later, make your way to the Cougar Mountain base for an immersive snowshoeing adventure. This three-hour guided tour will lead you through the diverse Coast Range forest, where towering Douglas firs, spruces, and ancient western red cedars create a breathtaking winter landscape. Knowledgeable guides will share insights about this rare ecosystem, making this a fascinating journey through one of British Columbia's most unique environments. Afterward, warm up at the Cougar Mountain base camp, where you can enjoy fire pits, hot chocolate, and s’mores kits. Then, get ready for a magical night at Vallea Lumina. Follow mysterious radio transmissions and traces left by two legendary hikers to uncover a scenic, illuminated trail, where Whistler’s enchanting legends come alive under a starlit sky—perfect for ending your winter adventure on a high note.
Overnight: Whistler
Day 7 - Depart Vancouver
Today you take the 2 hour drive back down the Sea to Sky highway to Vancouver where you will return the car and depart.
