Great choice Joy. Some of my favorite cities. Some of this will depend on what you like to do. In Vancouver, excellent shopping downtown, especially Robson street. Fantastic restaurants, some lesser known ones such as ShaLin noodles on Broadway = one of the few places in north america where they hand make their noodles fresh as you order! China town is wonderful. The steam clock in gas town is interesting and is close to *the* John Fleuvog shoe shop where he works. Stanley park is gorgeous and a great place for bike rides and walks. And their aquarium is stellar, they just had new baby belugas. The best Indian food (it's more fusion than pure Indian) that I've ever had is at Vancouver at a place called Vij's. The wait times can be as long as 90 minutes to bring along pleasant company or a book The good news is that the continuously serve you free appetizers while you wait. Or get there at 5pm when they open so you can get the first seating.
Victoria - you don't need a car. The down town area is really walkable. Lots of wonderful galleries, fun china town, etc. The Butchart Gardens are a must. There are a lot of buses that go there so you can choose one. I didn't like the butterfly gardens as much. If you enjoy this sort of thing, the high tea at the Empress is pricey but a memorable experience.
I hope you have a wonderful time!
