When the world arrives in Vancouver for the excitement of the FIFA World Cup, the entire city comes alive with fans, events, and unforgettable experiences. Between matches, there’s no shortage of ways to explore, relax, and take in everything the region has to offer.
Here are the top 10 things to do during FIFA in Vancouver to make the most of your visit.
1. Catch a Match at BC Place
Watching a match at BC Place is the heart of the FIFA experience. The stadium fills with fans from all over the world, creating an electric atmosphere of chanting, cheering, and national pride. Arrive early to enjoy the pre-game energy, grab food from nearby vendors, and soak in the excitement as kickoff approaches.
2. Explore the FIFA Fan Festival
The FIFA Fan Festival is where the city’s global celebration truly comes together. With massive screens broadcasting live matches, live music, food trucks, cultural activations, and entertainment, it’s a high-energy hub for fans without tickets or those looking to extend the match-day experience. It’s also a great place to connect with visitors from around the world.
3. Take the Vancouver Heli Tour 🚁
For a completely different view of the city, book a flight with Sky Helicopters.
Our Vancouver Heli Tour gives you a breathtaking aerial perspective of downtown Vancouver, surrounding mountains, and the coastline. It’s a peaceful, elevated escape from the crowds and one of the most memorable ways to experience the city during FIFA. Whether it’s your first time in Vancouver or you’re a returning visitor, seeing it from above is unforgettable.
4. Walk or Bike the Seawall
The Vancouver Seawall is one of the most scenic urban routes in the world. Stretching along the waterfront, it offers stunning views of the ocean, city skyline, and mountains. Rent a bike or take a walk and stop at beaches, viewpoints, and parks along the way—it’s a relaxing way to balance out the high energy of FIFA events.
5. Visit Granville Island
At Granville Island, you’ll find a lively mix of food, culture, and local creativity. The Public Market offers everything from fresh seafood and baked goods to international eats, while surrounding shops and studios showcase local artisans. It’s an ideal place to spend a relaxed afternoon between matches.
6. Experience Gastown
Step into the historic charm of Gastown, where cobblestone streets and heritage architecture meet modern restaurants and boutiques. Don’t miss the iconic Gastown Steam Clock, and stay into the evening when the neighbourhood transforms into one of Vancouver’s best nightlife areas.
7. Hike or Relax in Stanley Park
Stanley Park offers a natural escape right next to downtown. You can bike or walk the seawall, explore forest trails, visit beaches, or enjoy viewpoints overlooking the ocean and mountains. It’s a perfect break from the intensity of FIFA crowds and events.
8. Check Out Local Breweries (and a Helicopter Twist)
Vancouver’s craft beer scene is thriving, with breweries scattered across neighbourhoods like Mount Pleasant and East Vancouver. Spend time sampling local IPAs, lagers, and seasonal brews while enjoying laid-back tasting rooms that reflect the city’s creative culture.
For something far more unique, experience the Backcountry Beer Tasting Heli-Tour with Sky Helicopters. Instead of a typical brewery visit, you’ll fly by helicopter into remote backcountry locations where craft beer tasting meets untouched natural beauty. It’s a rare combination of adventure and relaxation—perfect for FIFA visitors looking to do something truly unforgettable beyond the city.
9. Take a Day Trip to Whistler
Just a scenic drive away, Whistler offers world-class mountain views, outdoor adventures, and a vibrant pedestrian village. Whether you’re hiking trails, riding the gondola, or exploring shops and restaurants, it’s an easy and rewarding day trip from Vancouver. You can even rent a car or book a shuttle with Ascent Car Rental, which is just down the street from the Sky Helicopters Vancouver location.
10. Enjoy Vancouver’s Food Scene
Vancouver’s food culture is diverse, fresh, and internationally inspired. From high-end seafood restaurants to street food and pop-up markets, the city offers something for every palate. During FIFA, expect even more global flavors as restaurants and vendors celebrate the international crowds.
Make the Most of FIFA in Vancouver
FIFA in Vancouver is more than a tournament—it’s a rare moment when the city’s energy, culture, and natural beauty all come together at once. Between the matches, fan celebrations, and world-class attractions, there’s always something worth experiencing just around the corner.
Whether you’re exploring the waterfront, discovering local neighborhoods, or taking in the views from above with Sky Helicopters, the best memories often come from the moments you didn’t plan for.
Enjoy the games, explore the city, and make every day in Vancouver count.