Top reasons to visit Vancouver
- Stunning Natural Beauty: Vancouver is surrounded by mountains and ocean, offering breathtaking views and outdoor activities like hiking and skiing.
- Vibrant Urban Life: The bustling downtown area features a variety of dining options, shopping, and entertainment, perfect for families and business travelers.
- Unique Neighborhoods: Explore diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm, culture, and attractions.
- Waterfront Experiences: Enjoy picturesque waterfront views and activities on Vancouver Island and along the city's shoreline.
- Accommodations for Every Traveler: A wide range of hotels and guesthouses cater to different preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels in Vancouver
Explore a variety of hotel accommodations in Vancouver, ranging from luxurious options to charming guesthouses. Whether you're traveling for business, seeking a pet-friendly stay, or planning a family vacation, you'll find suitable choices that meet your needs. With numerous hotels in Vancouver offering excellent services and facilities, you can enjoy a comfortable stay while discovering the beauty of this vibrant city. Be sure to check out hotel reviews to find the perfect fit for your trip.
- Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront: Nestled in the heart of Vancouver, Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront offers a blend of adventure and comfort for both leisure and business travelers. This 4-star hotel boasts a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, highlighting its appeal. With a range of adventure sports nearby, including skiing, kayaking, and windsurfing, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them engaged. The hotel also accommodates pets, making it a great choice for travelers who wish to bring their furry friends along. Guests can enjoy modern amenities and recreation activities that cater to a spirit of adventure.
- Hyatt Regency Vancouver: Located in the bustling city center, Hyatt Regency Vancouver is a 4.5-star hotel celebrated for its eco-friendly initiatives and family-oriented services. With a stellar guest rating of 9.4 out of 10, this property is perfect for families and eco-conscious travelers alike. The hotel features amenities for children, including breakfast options tailored for younger guests. Pets are welcome here, with specific policies to ensure a comfortable stay for all. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability, paired with its luxurious accommodations, makes it an ideal choice for conscientious visitors.
- Century Plaza Hotel: This 3.5-star hotel offers a cozy atmosphere for families, business travelers, and adventure seekers alike. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, Century Plaza Hotel provides a range of recreation opportunities such as snowshoeing, hiking, and kayaking nearby. The hotel is also child-friendly, offering amenities like free cribs and safety features for kids. Its convenient location in Vancouver makes it easy for guests to explore the vibrant city while enjoying comfortable accommodations and a welcoming environment.
Where to stay in Vancouver
Vancouver offers a vibrant mix of urban charm and stunning natural beauty, making it perfect for families and business travelers alike. Explore the bustling downtown, where you'll find friendly locals and a variety of dining options. Don't miss the breathtaking waterfront views and the nearby adventure of Vancouver Island. With its unique neighborhoods and welcoming atmosphere, your vacation in Vancouver will be an unforgettable experience filled with diverse vibes and activities.
- Downtown Vancouver: Nestled in the heart of the city, Downtown Vancouver is a bustling neighborhood that offers an exciting blend of urban life and outdoor adventure. Visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences, from family outings to business meetings, all while surrounded by stunning views of mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Highlights include the vibrant shopping areas, entertainment venues, and the iconic Canada Place, where you can experience the city’s rich maritime history. The nearby convention center and event spaces host numerous conferences and festivals throughout the year, making it a lively hub for tourists and locals alike.
- Richmond: Located just south of Vancouver, Richmond is a dynamic city known for its diverse culture and exceptional culinary scene, particularly its renowned Asian cuisine. Travelers flock to this city for family adventures and business opportunities, especially during the summer months. Richmond boasts impressive shopping centers and the beautiful Steveston Marina, where you can explore historic sites and enjoy fresh seafood. The city’s easy access to public transit makes it convenient to navigate and discover its local attractions, including the Richmond Olympic Oval and various parks.
- Surrey: As one of the fastest-growing cities in British Columbia, Surrey offers a unique mix of urban living and outdoor recreation. Families and outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy, from expansive urban parks like Green Timbers to diverse shopping experiences. The city’s vibrant community is reflected in its cultural festivals and events throughout the year. Notable attractions include the Surrey Arts Centre and the picturesque marina, which provide opportunities for leisure activities and exploration. With its welcoming atmosphere and beautiful landscapes, Surrey is a perfect destination for a memorable vacation.
Things to do near Vancouver
Shopping
Visit Metropolis at Metrotown, a large shopping center featuring a mix of popular brands and local shops. For a unique experience, check out Granville Island Public Market, where you can find artisanal goods, fresh produce, and handcrafted souvenirs from local vendors.
Recreation
In Vancouver, the Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Pacific Rim offers rejuvenating treatments with stunning waterfront views. Nearby, Yoga on the Beach provides serene outdoor yoga classes, allowing you to connect with nature while enhancing your wellness journey amidst the coastal scenery.
Adventure
The Sea to Sky Gondola, located 43km from Vancouver, offers breathtaking views as you ascend to the summit. Experience stunning mountain landscapes and exhilarating outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for families and adventure seekers alike. Enjoy hiking trails and scenic viewpoints at the top.
Nightlife
In Vancouver, Granville Street is vibrant with bars, clubs, and live music venues, making it a lively nightlife hub. For a more laid-back evening, head to the West End, where cozy pubs and lounges offer a relaxed atmosphere to unwind and socialize.
*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 trip to Vancouver, take advantage of free attractions like the Vancouver Waterfront, Stanley Park, and the University of British Columbia. For transportation, consider using the SkyTrain or buses, and remember that Monday is the cheapest day to book hotels, while Saturday is the most expensive. The best months for lower hotel rates are January, February, and November. Look for last-minute deals on Expedia, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for extra savings. Also, filter hotel options by price and eco-certification for the best deals.
- 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will show you a selection of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Vancouver with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Vancouver
Vancouver is an ideal destination for family, outdoor, and business vacations, offering a mix of urban parks, beaches, and tourist precincts. Travelers can explore cultural experiences and outdoor activities while enjoying stunning attractions like the Vancouver skyline, Vancouver Island, and the Vancouver Lookout. With something for everyone, Vancouver promises memorable adventures and beautiful scenery for visitors of all ages.
- Vancouver Waterfront: Experience the vibrant energy of Vancouver Waterfront, where you can stroll along the scenic pathways, enjoy local eateries, and witness stunning views of the harbor and mountains. This area is lively and perfect for families, offering outdoor activities and an inviting ambiance that showcases the city’s maritime charm.
- Stanley Park: Explore the expansive Stanley Park, an urban oasis with lush forests, beautiful gardens, and scenic seawalls. Ideal for families, you can cycle, walk, or take a horse-drawn carriage tour while enjoying breathtaking views of the city skyline and waterfront.
- Jericho Beach: Relax at Jericho Beach, where you can soak up the sun, swim, or enjoy beach volleyball. This picturesque setting offers breathtaking views of the North Shore mountains, creating a serene atmosphere for both leisure and recreation.
Best time to go to Vancouver
The best time to visit Vancouver can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Vancouver falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Vancouver falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.