Top reasons to visit Vancouver
- Stunning Natural Beauty: Vancouver is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including mountains, beaches, and parks, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Vibrant City Life: The downtown area offers a lively atmosphere with friendly locals, shopping, dining, and family-friendly attractions.
- Vancouver Island Excursions: A short trip to Vancouver Island provides stunning waterfront views and ample outdoor activities.
- Rich Cultural Experiences: Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture through art, food, and community events.
- Diverse Accommodations: From cozy guesthouses to modern hotels, Vancouver offers a variety of lodging options to suit all travelers.
Find great hotels in Vancouver
Experience the vibrant charm of Vancouver with a stay at one of its diverse hotels, offering everything from business amenities to family-friendly options. Whether you're seeking a cozy guesthouse or a modern hotel, you'll find accommodations that cater to your needs, including pet-friendly services. Explore the best hotels in Vancouver and read reviews to ensure a memorable vacation in this beautiful city.
- Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront: Nestled in the heart of Vancouver, Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront is a 4-star lodging option boasting a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This hotel embraces an adventurous spirit, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking excitement and outdoor activities. The property features a range of adventure sports options nearby, including skiing, mountain climbing, and waterskiing. Additionally, it is pet-friendly, offering amenities such as food and water bowls for your furry companions. Guests appreciate the convenient access to recreational activities while enjoying comfortable accommodations.
- Hyatt Regency Vancouver: With a stellar 9.4 out of 10 guest rating, Hyatt Regency Vancouver is a luxurious 4.5-star hotel that caters to families and wellness seekers. This property offers an extensive spa and pool service, including body wraps, massages, and a hot tub for relaxation. Children are catered for with special amenities and breakfast options, ensuring a family-friendly atmosphere. The hotel also welcomes pets with specific policies in place. Located in a prime area, it provides a blend of comfort and indulgence for a memorable stay in the city.
- Century Plaza Hotel: Century Plaza Hotel, a 3.5-star accommodation with a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, is an excellent choice for families and adventure enthusiasts. Situated conveniently in Vancouver, this property offers various recreational activities such as ice skating, kayaking, and snow tubing nearby. The hotel also provides essential services for children, including free cribs and window guards for safety. With a focus on both business and leisure travelers, Century Plaza Hotel delivers a well-rounded experience in a welcoming environment.
Where to stay in Vancouver
Vancouver offers a vibrant blend of urban excitement and stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers. Explore the bustling downtown area, where friendly locals and family-friendly attractions await. Don't miss a trip to Vancouver Island for breathtaking waterfront views and outdoor adventures. With its perfect mix of business amenities and budget-friendly options, Vancouver is sure to provide memorable experiences for everyone.
- North Vancouver: Nestled across the Burrard Inlet from downtown Vancouver, North Vancouver offers a stunning blend of outdoor adventure and urban charm. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, this city draws visitors year-round, particularly peaking in the spring and summer months. Explore the scenic hiking trails, ski resorts, and vibrant public markets. The local marina and urban parks provide excellent opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Whether you’re skiing in the winter or enjoying waterfront activities in the summer, North Vancouver is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Chinatown: Located in the heart of Vancouver, Chinatown is a lively neighborhood brimming with cultural significance and historical charm. It experiences consistent visitor traffic throughout the year, with peaks during the summer months. Families and business travelers alike enjoy the mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options here. Don't miss the vibrant arena entertainment facility and the nearby convention center, which hosts numerous events. The area is also known for its impressive markets, offering a taste of authentic Asian cuisine and culture, making it a delightful stop for anyone looking to immerse themselves in local heritage.
- East Richmond: An inviting neighborhood located near Vancouver, East Richmond is a great destination for families and business travelers. With a steady influx of visitors, particularly during the summer, this area is known for its accessibility to major shopping centers and educational facilities. Enjoy the local arena entertainment venues and the beautiful marina nearby. East Richmond’s blend of outdoor activities and business amenities makes it a versatile destination, perfect for those looking to balance leisure with work during their visit.
Things to do near Vancouver
Shopping
Discover Vancouver's Pacific Centre, a vibrant downtown mall featuring popular brands and eateries. For a unique experience, visit Granville Island Public Market, where you'll find local crafts, fresh produce, and artisanal goods just a short distance away from the city center.
Recreation
In Vancouver, the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Pacific Rim offers a serene escape with its luxurious treatments and beautiful views of the harbor. Nearby, the Spa at the Four Seasons provides a calming atmosphere with personalized wellness programs and rejuvenating massages in a sophisticated setting.
Adventure
The Sea to Sky Gondola, located 43km from Vancouver, offers breathtaking views as you ascend to the summit. Experience stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and outdoor family activities that capture the adventurous spirit of British Columbia.
Nightlife
In Vancouver, the Granville Entertainment District buzzes with lively bars and clubs, featuring diverse music and dance scenes. Head to the Commodore Ballroom for live performances or explore the rooftop patio at The Roof for stunning city views and refreshing cocktails.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Vancouver
To save money during your Vancouver trip, take advantage of the city's free attractions like Vancouver Waterfront, Stanley Park, and the University of British Columbia. For transportation, use the SkyTrain or buses, and consider biking. Visit between January to February or November for cheaper hotel rates, and book about a month in advance for the best deals. Monday is typically the least expensive day to stay. Explore Expedia for last-minute deals, and combine hotel bookings with flights for additional savings. Use their price filter to find the best offers and unlock travel rewards.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Vancouver are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Vancouver is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Vancouver is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Vancouver is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you want. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Vancouver hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Vancouver
Vancouver is ideal for family vacations, outdoor adventures, and business trips alike. This vibrant city offers a variety of attractions, including urban parks, beautiful beaches, and popular tourist precincts. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences. Key highlights to explore include the stunning Vancouver skyline, scenic Vancouver Island, and the breathtaking views from Vancouver Lookout.
- Vancouver Waterfront: Experience the stunning views of the harbor and mountains while strolling along the Vancouver Waterfront. This vibrant area offers family-friendly activities, outdoor spaces, and a variety of dining options. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you watch boats come and go, and take in the fresh sea air.
- Robson Street: Discover the heart of Vancouver’s shopping scene on Robson Street. This bustling street is lined with an array of shops, boutiques, and cafes, making it a great place to soak in the urban vibe. Whether you're looking for high-end fashion or unique souvenirs, Robson Street is a vibrant hub of activity.
- Ling Yen Mountain Temple: Immerse yourself in tranquility at Ling Yen Mountain Temple, a serene Buddhist temple that offers a glimpse into local culture. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the temple is a peaceful retreat where you can learn about Buddhist traditions and enjoy moments of reflection.
Best time to go to Vancouver
The best time to visit Vancouver is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Vancouver
Flying into Vancouver offers several airport options. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is conveniently located 11km from downtown Vancouver, with luxurious hotels like the 5-star Versante Hotel just 3km away. Nanaimo Airport (YCD), 61km from Vancouver, has nearby accommodations such as the Coast Bastion Hotel, situated 13km from the airport. Lastly, Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is 76km away, with fine options like Brentwood Bay Resort, 8km from the airport. Each hotel provides transportation services to their respective airports, ensuring a smooth travel experience for visitors to this beautiful region.