Where to Stay in Vancouver: Hostels, Hotels, B&Bs and Accommodation Advice
Vancouver is one of the most beautiful places to visit in North America. For travelers, it has a little bit of everything: the luxuries and variety of a big city with stunning natural surroundings. The weather is generally mild (although fall through spring can be quite rainy and grey) and the locals are friendly.
But if you're planning a trip to Vancouver it can be difficult to find accommodation that doesn't completely blow your budget out of the water! Vancouver is not cheap, especially in the high season which lasts from May to September.
With that in mind, I've put together this list of hotels, hostels, and B&Bs at varying prices points located in different areas of the city. But before we dive into the list, here are a few things to keep in mind about staying in Vancouver:
While you can usually find plenty of average, or even luxurious, hotels at decent prices in the winter months with only a few days notice, be sure to book well in advance (for Vancouver this means months, not weeks) if you're planning to visit in the high season.
Don't have a car? It's fairly easy to get around the city using public transit (just budget in extra time to get from point A to B). The skytrain, bus lines, and seabus operate on regular schedules and are usually quite reliable.
Where to stay in Downtown
Downtown Vancouver is an area that is often referred to as a laid-back, west coast “mini Manhattan” with plenty of attractions and things to do. Clearly the most touristy area, it also contains the vast majority of accommodations. If your budget allows it, definitely consider staying somewhere in downtown to cut down on travel time as you'll likely be spending a lot of time here.
Here are some hostel and hotel choices for Downtown Vancouver:
HI Downtown Vancouver ($) / I’ve stayed here on a number of occasions both in the summer and winter, and I consider this to be the best hostel in downtown because of its quiet location yet close proximity to many attractions, price point, and free daily breakfast (it’s nothing to write home about, but it does the job).
The Burrard ($$) / A boutique hotel with a vintage vibe, The Burrard first opened its doors in 1956. Today this updated retro hotel is the place to stay for all kinds of travelers looking for an ultra-cool (and Instagramable) accommodation only minutes from restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre ($$) / Comprised of two towers (the North Tower is newer) located in the heart of downtown, you can expect rooms with floor to ceiling windows, comfortable beds, modern amenities (sauna, pool, gym, on-site Starbucks), and friendly staff. I stayed in this hotel on one occasion and would have no hesitation booking it again.
Fairmont Pacific Rim ($$$) / If you're looking for a truly unforgettable stay, consider the gorgeous and luxurious Fairmont Pacific Rim, which overlooks Coal Harbour, Canada Place, and the North Shore Mountains. It's perfect for special occasions or if you want to treat yourself!
Where to stay in Kitsilano
Kitsilano is made up of quiet residential areas, a popular shopping street full of local businesses, sandy beaches, and over 15 public parks. Known among locals simply as “Kits”, this casual neighborhood is perfect if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown.
While there aren't many hotels in Kitsilano, you will find an abundance of B&Bs and a few hostels. Here are some places to consider:
HI Jericho Beach ($) / This hostel is located right at scenic Jericho Beach, just a little ways outside of downtown. While it might not be as centrally located as the HI Downtown, the rooms are a tiny bit fancier and some of the private rooms come with their own bathroom.
Suite Dreams Vancouver Bed and Breakfast ($$) / With friendly hosts and a prime location in the heart of Kitsilano, this B&B is ideal for exploring the neighborhood and only steps away from public transit connections to all over Vancouver.
Granville Island Hotel ($$$) / Located across from Downtown Vancouver on Granville Island, this hotel is an excellent choice if you want a quiet location that isn't far from the excitement and activities of downtown, yet only a 20-minute walk to the parks and beaches of Kitsilano. The best of both worlds.
