Posted: October 29, 23 | October 29, 2023
Vancouver is my favorite city in Canada. (It's also one of my favorite cities in the world. I absolutely love it.)
Spend a few days here and you'll see why it's consistently ranked as one of the world's most liveable cities.
Vancouver is the third largest city in Canada. As a traveler I like to be fairly centrally located, so there aren't many areas to stay. But Vancouver is still big enough that you could spend a lot of time commuting if you're not careful.
We've created this detailed list to help you find where to stay in Vancouver. It includes a brief description of each neighborhood, why I love it, and my favorite accommodations in that neighborhood so you know exactly what to expect.
Here's everything you need to know about accommodation in Vancouver.
Where to Stay in Vancouver for First-Time Visitors: Yaletown
Located just south of downtown, this upscale neighborhood is perfect for families, couples, and first-time visitors. There are six parks to enjoy when the weather is nice and the property is right on the water with views of nearby Granville Island. It's also one of the trendier areas, with plenty of stylish shops, cocktail bars, healthy restaurants and, if you look closely, the odd celebrity. There aren't many hotels here, giving it a more residential feel than other parts of the city. All major soccer, hockey and soccer stadiums are also located here.
Best places to stay in Yaletown:
- midrange: Rosedale on Robson Suites Hotel – This 3-star hotel offers rooms with a kitchenette equipped with a microwave, stovetop, and refrigerator. A continental breakfast including fresh waffles is also available. The rooms are old-fashioned but spacious, well-lit and have comfortable beds. Each room has a TV and desk, and the hotel has an indoor pool. I think this is the most cost-effective hotel in the area.
- Luxury: OPUS Vancouver – This luxury 5-star hotel offers spacious, modern rooms painted in bright, vibrant colors and equipped with Nespresso machines, ultra-comfortable beds, desks, and flat-screen TVs. The bathrooms are spacious and feature underfloor heating, adequate shower pressure and plush bathrobes. There is also a stylish cocktail bar and fitness center downstairs.
Where to stay in Vancouver for foodies: Gastown and Chinatown
Gastown is one of Vancouver's most iconic neighborhoods. With its Victorian buildings and cobblestone streets, it is one of the most photographed areas of the city. It is also one of the oldest. There are also plenty of bars here, so it's a good option if you want to experience the city's nightlife.
Because Gastown is not that big, it is often combined with Chinatown, which is just to the south. This bustling area is the largest Chinatown in the country due to the fact that immigrants from Asia historically arrived in Vancouver. While you're here, don't miss Dr. Sun Yat-Sen's Classical Chinese Garden. That's really cool!
Best accommodations in Gastown and Chinatown:
- budget: Cambie Hostel – Gastown – Housed in a building dating back to the late 1800s, this party hostel has a lively bar that attracts a local crowd. It can be incredibly noisy (bring earplugs!), but it's very easy to meet people. Dormitory beds are comfortable, but there are no curtains or outlets and there are lockers for storage. Breakfast is not included but is great (you can choose from eggs, bacon, hash browns, and veggie options).
- midrange: Skwachàys Lodge – This 3-star boutique hotel has gorgeous indigenous artwork on display throughout the property (there’s even a gallery in the lobby). Rooms are spacious and colorful, with unique artwork and décor. Each room has a kitchenette (if you wish to cook), a desk and very comfortable beds. The included breakfast is delicious and varied.
Where to Stay Luxury in Vancouver: Coal Harbor
Located between Gastown and the West End, this waterfront neighborhood is one of the city's most exclusive areas (there are no cheap accommodations here). There are plenty of luxury apartments and you can spend quite a bit of time there during the day. It's also right around the corner from the huge Stanley Park, where you'll find beaches, jetty paths, forest trails, an aquarium, and more. There is also a nice walking trail (Sewol Water Walk) where you can take a walk along the coast and enjoy the scenery. If you're taking a cruise from Vancouver, this is a great area to stay because of its proximity to the port.
Best accommodation in Coal Harbor:
Vancouver Accommodation for Families: West End
Additionally, the West End, bordering Stanley Park, is a quiet area away from the hustle and bustle and confined to the main commercial streets. It has some of the best beaches (especially English Bay and Sunset Beach) and some of the best places in town for outdoor activities. If you want to explore by bike, kayak or stand up paddleboarding, this is the place. If you're visiting in the summer, this may be the best area to stay.
Best accommodation in West End:
- budget: HI Vancouver Downtown – Nestled in a quiet area of the West End, this hostel recently reopened after a renovation. The dorm beds don't have curtains, but the mattresses are thick and incredibly comfortable. It also features a comfortable rooftop terrace with city views, a games room with a pool, a library, a co-working space, a fully equipped kitchen and a TV room. It's not a very lively hostel, but it's still pretty easy to meet people.
- midrange: Blue Horizon Hotel – This modern 4-star hotel offers a lot of value. There is an indoor swimming pool, gym, sauna and steam room, and an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy breakfast. The rooms are spacious and feature desks, coffee/tea makers, flat-screen TVs, and the beds are very comfortable. The bathroom is not large, but the shower has good water pressure (a big plus for me).
- Luxury: Shangri-La Vancouver – This luxurious 5-star hotel offers spacious, bright rooms with huge beds, floor-to-ceiling windows, Nespresso machines, desks, and spacious bathrooms with great showers and luxurious bathrobes. Equipped with The lobby is huge and elegant. There is also an outdoor pool, spa and gym with private yoga and Pilates classes. This is one of the most luxurious hotels in the city. If you want opulence, stay here!
What to See in Vancouver: Granville Island
Granville Island is one of Canada's most popular travel destinations. Technically a peninsula, it's located just across False Creek from Yaletown and is home to the Public Market, a huge indoor market featuring restaurants, fresh produce, crafts, and more. There are also numerous galleries and a large amphitheater. This is the perfect place to walk, window shop, eat and enjoy the summer weather. Be sure to grab a drink at Granville Island Brewing Co, one of the first cottage breweries in the entire region!
Best accommodation in Granville:
- midrange: Granville Island Hotel – The only hotel on Granville Island. This 3-star hotel has everything you need for a comfortable and affordable stay. There is a spa, sauna and gym, and bikes are available for hire if you want to explore the area. Stylish rooms feature large beds, desks, coffee/tea makers and ample lighting. The bathroom is not large, but everything is modern and clean and the shower has good water pressure. Breakfast is delicious and has a lot of choices.
Vancouver has it all: great food, countless museums and galleries, and plenty of green space. With the sea and mountains just around the corner, it's a fun city to visit all year round. Stick to the neighbors above. That way, you'll see the best that Vancouver has to offer, regardless of your travel style or budget.
Booking a Vacation to Vancouver: Logistics Tips and Tricks
flight reservation
Use Skyscanner or Momondo to find cheap flights. My two favorite search engines search websites and airlines all over the world, so you always know that no stone is left unturned. Start with Skyscanner first because it has the widest reach!
Accommodation Reservation
You can book hostels through Hostelworld, which offers the largest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, try Booking.com. We consistently offer the lowest rates on guesthouses and budget hotels.
Don't forget travel insurance
Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft and cancellation. Comprehensive protection in case something goes wrong. I can't go on a trip without it, as I've had to use it several times in the past. Here are some of my favorite companies that offer the best service and value:
Are you looking for the best company to help you save money?
Check out my resources page for the best companies to use when traveling. I list everything I use to save money on the go. You can also save money when traveling.
Want more information about Vancouver?
Visit our powerful destination guide to Vancouver for more planning tips!