Concierge Confidential: 24 Hours in Vancouver Before Your Cruise With Salima Jiwan, Award-Winning Luxury Hotel Concierge

When guests arrive at Fairmont Waterfront before embarking on an Alaska cruise, one question comes up again and again: “What should we see if we only have one day in Vancouver?”

To answer that question, we’re launching a new blog series: Concierge Confidential, where our concierge team shares insider recommendations to help guests experience Vancouver like a local.

Leading the series is Salima Jiwan, Award-winning Luxury Hotel Concierge and Director, BC Region, Les Clefs d’Or Canada. Recognized by the crossed golden keys worn by the world’s most trusted concierges, Salima specializes in curating unforgettable luxury travel experiences.

For guests sailing from Vancouver, she shares her perfect 24-hour Vancouver itinerary before your cruise – blending nature, culture, and incredible West Coast dining.

Morning: Vancouver’s Natural Beauty at Stanley Park

Start your day exploring Stanley Park, Vancouver’s most visited attraction and one of the largest urban parks in North America.

“Stanley Park offers the perfect introduction to Vancouver’s natural beauty,” says Salima. “Walking or cycling the Stanley Park Seawall gives you incredible views of the North Shore Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.”

The park spans more than 1,000 acres of forest, shoreline, and scenic viewpoints, making it an ideal place to stretch your legs after travel and immerse yourself in the city’s coastal landscape.

Late Morning: Discover Historic Gastown

Next, take a short walk from the hotel to Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood.

Here you’ll find charming cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, cafés, art galleries, and heritage buildings. Be sure to stop by the iconic Gastown Steam Clock, one of the city’s most photographed landmarks.

“Gastown is a wonderful place to wander,” Salima says. “You can explore local shops, grab a coffee, and soak in the historic character of Vancouver.”

Lunch Stop: Granville Island Public Market

For lunch, Salima recommends visiting the lively Granville Island Public Market.

“This market is a sensory experience,” she explains. “You’ll find everything from fresh seafood and baked goods to artisanal snacks and local specialties.”

The surrounding Granville Island is also home to artist studios, theatres, and street performers.

To get there, hop aboard the charming False Creek Ferries or Aquabus, which connect several scenic waterfront neighbourhoods including Yaletown, Olympic Village, David Lam Park, and Kitsilano Beach.

Sunset: English Bay Beach

As the day winds down, head to English Bay Beach for one of Vancouver’s most beautiful sunset views.

“Watching the sun dip behind the mountains at English Bay is unforgettable,” Salima says. “It’s the perfect place to pause, relax, and take photos of the Pacific sunset.”

Stay Close: Waterfront Wellness & Experiences at the Hotel

For guests who prefer a more relaxed pace or wish to spend time enjoying the hotel, Fairmont Waterfront offers a variety of experiences that celebrate Vancouver’s coastal setting.

Take a dip in our heated outdoor pool or relax on the pool deck with cocktails while enjoying sweeping harbour and mountain views. It’s the perfect place to unwind and soak in Vancouver’s waterfront atmosphere.

Just steps away, visit the hotel’s rooftop garden and apiary, a lush urban oasis where herbs, vegetables, and honey are grown for use throughout the hotel. Guests are invited to join our daily Garden & Apiary Tour at 3:00 PM to learn more about our sustainable growing practices and meet the resident bees.

For those seeking relaxation and renewal, our West Coast Wellness program features a rotating series of activities, including poolside yoga, sound bathing, and guided mindfulness experiences, designed to help guests start the day feeling refreshed and connected to Vancouver’s coastal energy.

Art lovers can also enjoy our self-guided art tour, featuring striking works by Indigenous artists displayed throughout the hotel — a meaningful way to connect with the culture and creativity of the region without leaving the property.

Dinner Options: ARC, Waterfront Dining or Yaletown

For dinner, Salima recommends several wonderful options depending on the mood.

For a true taste of the region without leaving the hotel, enjoy a Province to Plate dinner at ARC Restaurant, where seasonal menus celebrate ingredients sourced from across British Columbia, many harvested just steps away in Fairmont Waterfront’s rooftop garden.

For guests looking to explore the city, Yaletown offers trendy restaurants, lively patios, and craft cocktail bars – perfect for a vibrant evening out.

Alternatively, dining along Coal Harbour provides spectacular waterfront views with fresh seafood and breathtaking backdrops of the mountains and ocean.

If You Have Extra Time

If your schedule allows, Salima recommends venturing just outside downtown to explore two of Vancouver’s most iconic attractions:

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where a dramatic 450-foot suspension bridge stretches 230 feet above the Capilano River. Elevated walkways and rainforest boardwalks offer an unforgettable perspective of the Pacific Northwest wilderness.

Convenient shuttles depart from Canada Place, or the concierge team can arrange guided tours.

Grouse Mountain

For sweeping city views, head to Grouse Mountain.

Guests can ride the scenic Skyride aerial tramway, hike the famous Grouse Grind, or enjoy activities including ziplining, wildlife viewing, helicopter tours, and the renowned lumberjack show.

Discover Vancouver with Concierge Expertise

Salima and the concierge team are always happy to personalize recommendations based on each guest’s interests, schedule, and travel style.

Whether you have 24 hours or several days before your Alaska cruise, Vancouver offers an incredible blend of nature, culture, and cuisine – all easily explored from Fairmont Waterfront’s central harbourfront location.

For more curated recommendations, visit our Activities page to discover even more ways to experience Vancouver before you set sail.