Top reasons to visit Vancouver
- Stunning Waterfront: Vancouver's picturesque waterfront offers breathtaking views and a vibrant atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls.
- Outdoor Adventures: The city's proximity to nature provides opportunities for skiing, hiking, and cycling, catering to adventurous spirits.
- Vibrant Cultural Scene: Immerse yourself in the local culture through diverse festivals, art galleries, and historical sites.
- Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy the sandy shores and stunning sunsets at Vancouver's scenic beaches, ideal for relaxation.
- Charming Neighbourhoods: Explore the unique character of various neighbourhoods, each offering delightful dining and shopping experiences.
Find great hotels in Vancouver
Explore a diverse range of hotel accommodations in Vancouver, ideal for both business travellers and families seeking a memorable vacation. From luxurious hotels to charming guesthouses, you'll find pet-friendly options and excellent amenities to cater to your needs. Delve into hotel reviews to make an informed choice and enjoy the splendour of this vibrant city.
- Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront: Nestled in the heart of Vancouver, the 4-star Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront offers a unique blend of adventure and nature-themed experiences. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this property is ideal for those seeking an active vacation with options for skiing, snowboarding, and mountain climbing nearby. The hotel is pet-friendly, allowing travellers to bring their furry companions along, with amenities such as pet bowls and a waived fee for service animals. Guests can unwind on the outdoor terrace, soaking in the natural surroundings while enjoying various recreational activities available on-site and in the vicinity.
- Hyatt Regency Vancouver: This 4.5-star hotel, boasting a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, is an excellent choice for families and eco-conscious travellers. Located centrally in Vancouver, the Hyatt Regency is eco-certified, reflecting its commitment to sustainability. It offers facilities tailored for families, including a breakfast option designed for children. Guests can take advantage of the hotel’s business amenities, making it suitable for both leisure and corporate travellers. The elegant setting and attentive service ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all.
- Century Plaza Hotel: A 3.5-star property with a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, Century Plaza Hotel is perfect for families and adventure seekers. Positioned in the bustling city centre, this hotel provides easy access to nearby activities such as hiking, biking, and ice skating. Family-friendly amenities include free cribs and safety features like window guards. The hotel’s urban setting combined with its recreational offerings makes it an appealing choice for those wishing to explore the vibrancy of Vancouver while enjoying a variety of activities.
Where to stay in Vancouver
Vancouver is a vibrant metropolis offering a delightful blend of urban and scenic experiences. Families and outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the stunning waterfront and the welcoming atmosphere of downtown Vancouver. Nearby, Vancouver Island beckons with its natural beauty and friendly communities, making it an ideal getaway. Whether for leisure or business, this city and its surroundings promise an unforgettable vacation filled with rich culture and breathtaking landscapes.
- Downtown Vancouver: Nestled in the heart of the city, Downtown Vancouver is a vibrant urban hub surrounded by stunning waterfront views and majestic mountains. This area attracts visitors year-round, with peak arrivals in April and the summer months. It offers a wealth of family-friendly activities, outdoor adventures, and business-oriented venues. Explore the iconic Canada Place, shop at Pacific Centre, or take in a live event at Rogers Arena. With a variety of restaurants and cultural institutions, Downtown Vancouver promises an unforgettable urban experience.
- Richmond: Located just south of Vancouver, Richmond is a bustling city renowned for its multicultural atmosphere and exceptional dining scene. Visitor numbers surge during the summer months, particularly from June to July. Families and business travellers alike are drawn to its extensive shopping options, including the famous Richmond Night Market. Enjoy a stroll along the marina, visit the historic Britannia Shipyards, or explore the local parks. Richmond's blend of city life and natural beauty makes it a compelling destination for all types of travellers.
- Surrey: Situated to the southeast of Vancouver, Surrey is a rapidly growing city that offers a mix of urban and outdoor experiences. With peak visitor numbers in spring and summer, it is an ideal spot for families looking to enjoy parks and recreational activities. Discover the lush greenery at Bear Creek Park, visit the Surrey Arts Centre, or shop at the diverse mall centres. Surrey's combination of vibrant urban attractions and natural landscapes makes it a delightful addition to your Vancouver itinerary.
Things to do near Vancouver
Shopping
Granville Island Public Market offers a vibrant selection of local produce, artisan crafts, and gourmet foods. For retail therapy, visit Pacific Centre, featuring popular brands and boutiques, while Metropolis at Metrotown boasts a range of shops for gifts and souvenirs.
Recreation
Experience the tranquility of the Holistic Wellness Centre, where you can indulge in rejuvenating massages and holistic therapies. Afterwards, take a serene stroll around the nearby VanDusen Botanical Garden, enjoying beautiful flora and peaceful pathways, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.
Adventure
The Sea to Sky Gondola, located 43km from Vancouver, offers breathtaking views of mountains and fjords. Experience the thrill of soaring above the landscape, followed by hiking trails that cater to all levels, immersing you in the stunning natural beauty of British Columbia.
Nightlife
Visit the bustling Granville Street for vibrant nightlife, featuring numerous bars and clubs. Check out the Commodore Ballroom for live music and dance, or unwind at the cozy Yaletown Brewing Company for local craft beers. Explore the diverse options and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this city.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Vancouver
Vancouver offers numerous budget-friendly options for visitors. You can explore stunning locations like Stanley Park and the Vancouver Waterfront for free. To save on transport, utilise the SkyTrain and buses, which are cost-effective. For accommodation, plan your visit in the cheaper months of January to February and November, booking about a month in advance for the best rates. Aim to stay on Mondays for lower prices, and consider Expedia packages to combine flights, hotels, and activities for extra savings. Always check for last-minute deals to maximise affordability.
- 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: Booking a hotel in Vancouver about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- 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: Utilise Expedia's search tool to tailor your options according to your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To uncover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Vancouver with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Vancouver
Vancouver is an ideal destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of attractions such as urban parks, beautiful beaches, and vibrant tourist precincts. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying experiences like the stunning Vancouver skyline, exploring Vancouver Island, or taking in the panoramic views from the Vancouver Lookout. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Vancouver has something to cater to every traveller's taste.
- Vancouver Waterfront: This vibrant tourist precinct offers stunning views of the harbour and mountains, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls. With a blend of shops, eateries, and outdoor spaces, it invites families to enjoy the fresh air and lively atmosphere while soaking in the beauty of the city.
- Stanley Park: A true urban oasis, Stanley Park features lush greenery, scenic seawalls, and cultural landmarks. Visitors can explore its numerous trails or unwind at family-friendly picnic spots, all while admiring the impressive skyline and surrounding nature.
- Kitsilano Beach: Renowned for its laid-back beach vibes, Kitsilano Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or beach volleyball. The sandy shores and stunning views of the mountains create a quintessential coastal experience, ideal for relaxing with family and friends.
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
Vancouver boasts a major airport, Vancouver International Airport (YVR), situated 11km from the city centre. Notable hotels nearby include the 5-star Versante Hotel, located 3km away, and the Fairmont Pacific Rim, 11km away, both providing convenient access to the airport. Additionally, JW Marriott Parq Vancouver, 10km from YVR, offers luxury accommodation. For those considering Seattle Paine Field International Airport (PAE), located 164km away, options include the 4.5-star Lodge at St Edward Park, 19km from PAE, and Delta Hotels by Marriott Seattle Everett, 10km away. Nanaimo Airport (YCD), 61km from Vancouver, provides further options with nearby hotels like Coast Bastion Hotel, 13km from YCD.