The Best Time to Visit Vancouver

Deciding when to visit Vancouver will be the most challenging part of planning your trip, as finding things to do once you’re here is the easy part. This vibrant city is one of Canada’s most popular destinations, and has a lot to offer any time of the year. Though the rainy season lasts 10 of the 12 months of the year, there’s so much more to plan for than rainy days. The mix of nature and urban offerings provides all the entertainment you could need. Stroll the parks lined with old-growth trees and enjoy the downtown attractions, museums, upscale shopping, and dining.

When it’s time to plan your stay in Vancouver, staying at Carmana Hotel & Suites will put you close to all the city has to offer. The generous Vancouver hotel suites provide all the room you need for resting and refreshing before your next adventure. Whether you’re here for a winter getaway, a summer stay, a fall foliage trip, or a spring break, knowing what to expect each season will help you perfectly time your Vancouver vacation. 

Visiting Vancouver in the fall is an excellent alternative to arriving during its busy summer season, and comes with fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Leaf peeping is at its height in mid-September until early November, and the vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red are a stunning sight to witness.

Remember to pack layers, and bring a jacket and an umbrella in case of drizzle or an occasional downpour during your outings. The weather hovers in the 10–15℃ (50–60℉) range, so it’s ideal for wandering a nearby park to see nature’s show, exploring the downtown shops, or taking a downtown architectural walk. You won’t need to go far to find things to do on Robson Street—this bustling dining and shopping district is just one block from Carmana Hotel & Suites. Find even more things to do in Vancouver in the fall.

If you’re a snow-sports enthusiast, winter is the best time to visit Vancouver, as the nearby slopes are full of fresh powder, but even those who prefer to hole up for the season have a great time. Though the temperatures drop to the -1–5℃ (30–40℉) range, this hardy city doesn’t hibernate so there’s still plenty to do.

If the frequent rain and snow showers in December, January, or February convince you to choose indoor activities, check out the host of city museums celebrating the diverse heritage and culture of the area. Plus, the Vancouver Aquarium and Art Gallery are among the best attractions downtown. Beyond entertainment, you’ll likely find Vancouver hotel deals during this less-busy season to make your stay even more desirable.

The warmer weather awakens Vancouver’s plants and animals, making spring the best time to visit Vancouver to enjoy wildlife watching. As temperatures rise to the 10–15℃ (50–60℉) range, it’s time to get outside and enjoy the city parks and meander downtown.

Head to the waterfront or take a tour to see migrating whales make their way through the area, which begins in March, or walk Stanley Park for birdwatching and to see the rose garden at its peak at the end of the month. Visiting Vancouver in April means you’ll arrive in time for the month-long Cherry Blossom Festival, a celebration of the city’s 43,000 cherry trees as they burst into bloom. 

Check out our guide to spring break in Vancouver.

Summer is a perfect time to visit Vancouver, and the bustling downtown and busy beaches are a testament to how appealing this seaport city is in the warm months. Temperatures average in the low 20s°C (70s℉) throughout the summer, but August affords the warmest weather in Vancouver, reaching a daytime average of 27℃ (82℉). The sunshine and mild weather are great for visiting the beaches to sunbathe or play volleyball.

June and July afford travelers a closer look at the culture of the city via the Vancouver Jazz and Folk music festivals, together with the Bard on the Beach theater productions. Hiking is another activity that’s popular in summer because the drier season leaves you less likely—though not immune—to catch a daytime rain shower. Pull on a sweater or light jacket during the cooler summer nights and explore the Richmond Night Market and local craft breweries, or hop over to the popular nightlife neighborhoods of Granville Street and Yaletown.

Learn more about planning the perfect Vancouver summer stay.

The warmest month in Vancouver is August, which averages 27℃ (82℉). The not-too-hot temperatures in June, July, and August are warm enough for any adventure yet not so sweltering they’ll put a damper on your summer fun in Vancouver.

The wettest months are November and December, but Vancouver experiences rain in 10 of 12 months. July and August are the driest months of the year, though they are not exempt from an occasional shower.

Make your vacation in Vancouver the best it can be by staying at Carmana Hotel & Suites. The on-site amenities and comfortable accommodations of our all-suite hotel will make you feel at home in every season. And the location of our boutique Vancouver hotel offers convenient access to many downtown Vancouver things to do—no matter what month you visit.