If my wardrobe opened up into a mystical, frosty land, I would much prefer Vancouver over Narnia. If I had a wardrobe. Or a home (ED: …out of choice, buddy…).
Anyway, Vancouver ROCKS.
Not only are survival rates passable, but the weather is better, there is a distinct lack of talking beavers, and governance has presumably never fallen to bunch of barely pubescent teenagers, or a large, clever cat.
But even a Canadian city is full of surprises, which is why you’re going to need my PITCH-PERFECT guide to where to stay in Vancouver!
Packed full of unexpected delights, stunning scenery, and some truly top-of-the-range travel writing, let us open the dusty closet to Vancouver, BC…
Are you traipsing through Canada with a bag you can slip past a dodgy airline and a slightly stale packet of biscuits?
Or perhaps you are a business traveler checking out some fresh business? Either way, you’re going to need a sack of soft stuff to kip on.
These are my top 3 top picks for places to stay in Vancouver!
Loden Vancouver | Best Hotel in Vancouver
Loden Vancouver rightly takes its place as the king of luxury hotel heaven. With an on-site spa, award-winning restaurants, and a killer location, this is one of the best hotels in town. Rooms are big, well laid out, and come equipped with a yoga mat, TV, and a sizeable bathtub. The Vancouver Lookout is less than a kilometre away, and the Vancouver Art Gallery is only 500 metres!
This hotel combines moody luxury with modern comfort and excellent service. A masterful choice, sir.
Downtown Condo (with EPIC skyline views) | Best Airbnb in Vancouver
If you are looking for a classy homestay, then stray no further! With views that could disarm a small rebel militia, this Airbnb comes equipped with a stunning open-plan living room/kitchen, and floor-to-ceiling windows. Located in downtown Vancouver, you can stroll right out into the heart of the city, and the beach is only 10 minutes away!
No parties (you bad child). But perfect for 2 or 3 people staying for a few days of exploration.
Cambie Hostel – Seymour | Best Hostel in Vancouver
The Cambie Hostel -Seymour stands out as the best hostel in Vancouver. Not only does it give that intimate feel that all the top backpacker lodges have, but it also provides a super entertaining bar downstairs and an exceptional location. They’ve got live sports, music, and beer. What else do you need?
As one of the best hostels in Vancouver, there is also a great kitchen, hangout area, and a 20% discount on the Malones Restaurant. Screw yeh.
Yaletown
Yaletown is located in downtown Vancouver. On the waterfront, this neighbourhood is a revitalized industrial zone that is now one of the city’s hottest areas. It’s home to a number of chic hotels and independent boutiques as well as modern restaurants and trendy bars.
West End
Located on the western edge of Vancouver’s downtown core is the West End neighbourhood. Home to some of the city’s best beaches, the West End is where relaxing nature and the bustling city blend seamlessly. It’s the best area to stay in Vancouver for those on a budget.
Granville Street
The Granville Street neighbourhood is one of the most energetic and vibrant neighbourhoods in the city. Located in the heart of downtown, this is a lively neighbourhood where nightlife rules and the party carries on all night long.
Gastown
Gastown is one of the oldest and most charming neighbourhoods in Vancouver. Located at the northeast end of Downtown Vancouver, this area is made up of cobblestone streets and stunning heritage architecture.
Kitsilano
South of the downtown core, Kitsilano is a stylish and family-friendly Vancouver neighbourhood. Known locally as “Kits,” this area had a long history of coffee culture, poetry readings and was the home to many “flower children.” It’s hands down the best area to stay in Vancouver for families.
Vancouver is a modern and cosmopolitan city located on the west coast of Canada. Nestled between the mountain and the sea, Vancouver is famous for its majestic natural beauty and stunning scenery.
There’s a lot to do, see and experience in Vancouver from sampling exciting local cuisine and vibrant shopping to enjoying world-class sporting events and lively nights out.
One of the best things about Vancouver, however, is its abundance of nature! Get out from beneath the feet of towering skyscrapers to experience some of the hauntingly beautiful Canadian countrysides.
It’s a great place to slide into a couple of embarrassingly great day trips if you can!
Yaletown is a downtown district and one of the trendiest areas of Vancouver. It’s where you’ll find great shopping, delicious food and very hip bars. It’s close to other areas of the city and perfect for first-time visitors.
To the west of Yaletown is the West End. A laid-back and relaxed neighborhood, this is where you’ll find great beaches, charming independent shops and tree-lined avenues.
East of the West End is Gastown. One of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, Gastown is also one of the coolest places in Vancouver and home of bars, charming streets and architecture. A number of Vancouver homestays are in Gastown.
At the heart of the city is Granville Street. A bustling pedestrianized zone, this is where you’ll find the best bars and liveliest nightclubs.
South of the city centre, you have the Kitsilano neighborhood. A perfect combination of laid-back and chic, with everything on offer like shops, bars, beaches, and parks.
Still not sure where to stay in Vancouver? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered below.
5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Vancouver
Certain neighborhoods in Vancouver are better suited than others to specific interests.
Do you want to drink and dance at the city’s hottest club places? Explore its exciting and innovative culinary scene? Create a massive, embarrassing fuss because your legendary Vancouver Itinerary is 5 minutes behind schedule?
All of these things are possible, if you’re in the right neighborhood 🙂
1. Yaletown Neighborhood – Where to Stay in Vancouver for the First Time
Yaletown is located in downtown Vancouver. On the waterfront, this neighborhood is a revitalized industrial zone that is now one of the city’s hottest areas. It’s home to a number of chic hotels and independent boutiques as well as modern restaurants and trendy bars.
Well connected to other areas of the city, Yaletown is a great location for anyone visiting Vancouver for the first time. It’s within walking distance of the city’s hottest shopping street, Robson, and a good variety of nightlife locations.
Enjoy charming cobblestone streets and modern features in this downtown Vancouver neighborhood.
Opus Hotel | Best Hotel in Yaletown
This luxurious four-star hotel is located in the heart of Vancouver’s trendy Yaletown neighborhood. Surrounded by shops, restaurants, bars and attractions, this hotel is within walking distance of all of Vancouver’s most famous tourist sights.
Each room is equipped with air conditioning and a flat-screen TV, desk and mini bar. Enjoy daily breakfast and a magnificent stay in the centre of Yaletown.
Deluxe Junior One Bedroom with 2 Beds | Best Airbnb in Yaletown
Located just one block away from the world-famous Robson Street there are a lot of various restaurants, stores, and groceries nearby. The condo building has a swimming pool, sauna, exercise gym, and jacuzzi.
It is also super comfortable, and cosy, and brings in some bedding that would suit natural selection for a zebra. Definitely one of the top Airbnbs in the city for sure!
YWCA Hotel | Best Budget Hotel in Yaletown
Located near BC Place, this downtown Vancouver hostel is the closest to the Yaletown neighborhood. Offering private accommodations, this hostel has rooms that are perfect for solo, duo and small groups of travellers.
Each room features air conditioning, a mini-fridge, and a private bathroom. Well connected to the rest of the city via public transportation, this hostel is perfect for travellers of all ages and styles.
Things to Do in Yaletown
- Ignite your imagination at Science World at TELUS World of Science.
- Catch a concert or major sporting event, like a B.C. Lions football game at B.C. Place.
- Enjoy good food, tasty drinks and a great atmosphere at Yaletown Brewing Company.
- Browse the shops and stalls at Vancouver Flea Market where you can find everything from sweets and treats to furniture and appliances.
- Head out into the wider city on an exclusive Vancouver sightseeing tour, including Granville Island and Stanley Park.
- For a quintessential coastal experience head to Rodney’s Oyster House where you’ll enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views.
- Rent kayaks and explore the waters of False Creek where the views of the city are unbeatable.
- Walk along the seawall, a paved waterfront walkway that leads all the way into and around Stanley Park.
- Come in and enjoy a great lineup of programming, including DJs, drag shows and more at The Cobalt, the classiest dive bar in the city.
- Enjoy the city you came to see by escaping to rugged waterfalls and canyons. A Vancouver delight…
- Grab a seat outside (weather permitting) and enjoy a relaxing and delicious patio brunch at the Hurricane Grill.
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View on Osprey View on REI2. West End Neighborhood – Where to Stay in Vancouver on a Budget
Located on the western edge of Vancouver’s downtown core is the West End neighborhood. Home to some of the city’s best beaches, the West End is where relaxing nature and the bustling city blend seamlessly.
This charming and laid-back neighborhood is also where you’ll find the best value accommodation options. With low-cost hostels and boutique hotels, the West End has something for travellers of all styles and budgets.
Well connected to the rest of the city, it’s the perfect base for your first time in Vancouver.
Sonder at Revival | Best Hotel in West End
Sonder is where managers of luxurious hotels come to put their feet up. It has a spectacular West End location that is neither too far from the city centre, nor the beach, and provides guests with lovely spacious rooms and a superior level of comfort. The lobby is quiet and comfortable if you need a place to relax, and there is an excellent seafood restaurant on-site.
Coal Harbour Apartment | Best Airbnb in West End
Beautiful bright private small room in a Coal Harbour apartment. The room has a twin bed, a large window that opens up to a view of the downtown and the north shore mountains, a spacious closet and full-height mirror, a desk, and a chair. Shared bathroom and shower with another guest, clean towels, Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. In-unit washer and dryer.
Stunning 3-Bedroom Home | Best Luxury Airbnb in West End
This heritage home, with a great location near Downtown Vancouver, has been redone in a luxurious and modern fashion. If it is designer living rooms and gorgeous kitchens that you desire, then so shall it be! This is a wonderful place to spend a few days and split six ways, it isn’t even too expensive. There are three fully outfitted bedrooms, and a stunning living room too.
Things to Do in West End
- Relax and enjoy stunning views of the mountains and sea from English Bay Beach, one of the best beaches in the city.
- Visit the world-famous Japadog hot dog stand that serves up hot dogs with delicious and unique Japanese-style toppings.
- Grab a spot on a log or stretch your legs in the sand at Sunset Beach, one of the best places to be when the sun is setting over Vancouver.
- Saucy Seaplane anyone?
- A family-owned and operated distillery, Long Table Distillery brews handcrafted small-batch gin that’s absolutely delicious. Pop by and sample some of their most unique blends.
- Homemade noodles and delicious dishes await you at the Legendary Noodle House, one of the best places for cheap eats in Vancouver.
- Wander through Morton Park and see the interesting, intriguing, and downright weird statues that dot this urban green space.
- You know you want to. It’s a Victoria and Butchart Gardens Tour. Yay!
- Grab a pie and enjoy an inexpensive and filling snack at Peaked Pies.
- Rent bikes and ride along the seawall, making your way around the island of Vancouver.
3. Granville Street – Where to Stay in Vancouver for Nightlife
The Granville Street neighborhood is one of the most energetic and vibrant neighborhoods in the city. Located in the heart of downtown Vancouver, this is a lively neighborhood where nightlife rules and the party carries on all night long.
The entertainment district is a pedestrian zone which spans several blocks on one of the city’s main thoroughfares. Home to the hottest clubs, bars, and late-night restaurants, Granville Street is the ideal location for anyone looking to enjoy a wild night out in the city.
From in the club to out on the street, this is the best place to sing, dance and party all night long. The area can be lively if you visit Vancouver on the weekend so bear that in mind.
Rosewood Hotel Georgia | Best Hotel in Granville Street
5 stars. Courtesy car service. Heated tiles in spa-inspired bathrooms. The Rosewood Hotel Georgia is one of the top luxury hotels in the whole of Vancouver. It was actually a close pick between this and my alternative number 1 hotel. You will have access to an indoor pool, gym, and contemporary Canadian cuisine (which can be found at the Hawksworth Restaurant). Stanley Park is just a few minute’s drive away and offers a great range of entertainment.
Downtown Loft | Best Airbnb in Granville Street
Granville Street is groovy, and so is this brilliant loft! With space for four guests, stunning apartment windows, and great views, this Airbnb has one of the best locations in town. Step out the front door into the heart of the entertainment district, and you’ll find top restaurants and nightlife to fully enjoy! There is even a gym available to use, like its a top luxury hotel or something.
SameSun Vancouver | Best Hostel in Granville Street
The Samesun Vancouver hostel is located at the heart of the city’s entertainment district. Situated right on Granville Street, this hostel is within walking distance of the city’s liveliest bars, clubs, restaurants and shopping.
A fun and fabulous hostel, Samesun Vancouver features an on-site café, the Beaver Bar where you can indulge in drinks and snacks day or night. Enjoy a comfortable stay and a friendly atmosphere in downtown Vancouver.
Things to Do in Granville Street
- Catch a show at the Orpheum Theatre, home to the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and other great performances.
- Rock out to local and international artists at the Vogue Theatre, an art deco theatre that was built in the 1940s.
- Dance the night away at Venue Nightclub, a two-level, 600-person space that hosts live DJs and performances every night of the week.
- A Vancouver staple, The Commodore Ballroom hosts great live performances from local and world-renowned bands.
- If you want to do a walking tour on a budget and feel extreme guilt when you don’t pay, check out this tips-based walking tour. Epic stuff, right?
- Enjoy a wild night out at the Roxy, one of the city’s most infamous nightclubs and a favourite haunt of professional athletes, including the Vancouver Canucks and visiting NHL players.
- Visit the gritty and eclectic Republic Vancouver for a night of great music, unparalleled service, and a moody and spirited atmosphere.
- For one of the best night’s in the city head to Celebrities on nearby Davie Street. This iconic location has been hosting the best alternative nightlife in Vancouver for more than 30 years.
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Grab an eSIM!4. Gastown Neighborhood – Coolest Place to Stay in Vancouver
Gastown is one of the oldest and most charming neighborhoods in Vancouver. Located at the northeast end of Downtown Vancouver, this area is made up of cobblestone streets and stunning heritage architecture.
Thanks to the plaques that adorn many of the streets, this is the neighborhood where Vancouver’s history truly comes alive.
Gastown is also one of the coolest neighborhoods in the city. This trendy and historic district is where you’ll find a great variety of creative cocktail joints, hip microbreweries and chic boutiques. Enjoy classic charm with a modern twist in Vancouver’s Gastown neighborhood.
Victorian Hotel Vancouver | Best Hotel in Gastown
The Victorian Hotel Vancouver offers guests affordable luxury in the centre of the city. This charming three-star hotel is within walking distance of the city’s top attractions, best shopping and trendiest restaurants. It’s one of the best places to stay in Vancouver to visit the city.
It features a wide variety of modern amenities, including a gym and ski lockers. Each room comes outfitted with iPod docking stations, a flat-screen TV and personal coffee/tea-making facilities.
Historic Gastown Loft | Best Airbnb in Gastown
If you’re searching for something hip and arty, then jump in here! With a gorgeous old building providing the foundations, this apartment just oozes taste and style. Offering comfortable accommodation for two guests, it is located on Cordova Street and has access to some of the top restaurants in town. A great convenient location and good access to the city centre make this a top choice.
Cambie Hostel Gastown | Best Hostel in Gastown
This hostel is situated at the centre of one of Vancouver’s coolest neighborhoods. Located in Gastown, this hostel is a short walk to all of the city’s top attractions. The common room features a full kitchen and a comfortable seating area.
The hostel is even home to Oreo the cat who loves to make friends with guests. Perched atop The Cambie, one of Vancouver’s best bars, you won’t have to go very far to find a good time in Gastown.
Things to Do in Gastown
- Ride the glass elevator 170 meters up to the top of the Vancouver Lookout and enjoy a 360-degree, panoramic view of the city, sea and mountains.
- Head over to Chinatown and indulge in a dumpling masterclass
- Visit the Steam Clock and stand at the spot where the city began.
- Browse works of art by First Nation People, including paintings, sculptures, carvings and ceramics, at the Coastal Peoples Fine Arts Gallery.
- Good drinks and a great atmosphere await you at the Lamplighter Public House, a classic and modern pub at the heart of the city.
- Spend a cool evening sipping on refined cocktails at Chambar.
- Enjoy a variety of great food at the Water Street Café, a staple of Gastown’s culinary scene.
- Dine on Canadian, French and European fares at ultra-hip and cool L’Abattoir Restaurant.
- Get loose on an Epic Gastown Pub Crawl!
- Drink unique and exotic cocktails at the Diamond.
- Visit the Alibi Room for a great lineup of cocktails, beer, drinks and food.
5. Kitsilano Neighborhood – Where to Stay in Vancouver for Families
South of the downtown core, Kitsilano is a stylish and family-friendly Vancouver neighborhood. Known locally as “Kits,” this area had a long history of coffee culture, poetry readings and was the home to many “flower children.” Today, this neighborhood is where you’ll find chic yummy mummies and fashionable young professionals.
Home to sandy beaches and public pools, Kitsilano is one of the best neighborhoods for families in Vancouver. It’s made up of charming tree-lined streets and lush public parks. There are many exceptional day hikes in Vancouver, and many are around this area!
Well connected to Granville Island and Downtown Vancouver, Kitsilano is the perfect base for a stay in Vancouver.
Quiet 3BR Family House | Best Hotel in Kitsilano
Travelling with the whole family can often be stressful when it comes to finding places to stay. Instead of splitting up into different accommodations, you can stay together in this stunning family home. There are three bedrooms in total, meaning that it’ll even accommodate big families. The house is super spacious and has received the best reviews from previous guests. There’s a charming garden where kids can play and a big living area (perfect for socializing). On top of that, it’s located in a quiet and safe residential area as well.
Charming Cottage in Garden Quarter | Best Airbnb in Kitsilano
Located on the ground level of a 100-year-old Kitsilano craftsman character house. The apartment’s south & west-facing windows make it bright with lots of light throughout the day. Enjoy privacy as you have your own separate entrance, spacious 1 bedroom with a queen-size comfy bed & full closet & cozy living space & full kitchen.
HI Vancouver Jericho Beach | Best Hostel in Kitsilano
The closest hostel to the neighborhood is located slightly east of the border on Jericho Park. Just 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver, this hostel boasts unbeatable views of the city, mountains, and sea.
This hotel offers both private and dorm-style accommodations. Features include hot showers, a common room, BBQs and a book exchange.
Things to See and Do in Kitsilano
- Rest and relax on Kitsilano Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the city.
- Take a dip in Kitsilano Pool, a seaside saltwater pool with long lanes and stunning views.
- Enjoy a delicious and filling meal at Rocky Mountain Flatbread, which specializes in wholesome homemade flatbread pizza.
- Visit the White Spot Restaurant in Kitsilano, where kids will love chowing down on the beloved pirate pack.
- Cool down on a hot day by grabbing a scoop of ice cream at Rain or Shine.
- Enjoy an amazing brunch at the famous Sophie’s Cosmic Café; Get there early to beat the rush.
- Visit nearby Granville Island where you’ll find a number of quirky shops, a robust farmer’s market and a variety of great restaurants, cafes and bars. This is also where you can hop aboard the ferry and travel across False Creek.
- Explore the city’s rich history at the Museum of Vancouver where you can browse exhibits and exhibitions that share stories, objects and memories.
- Rent bikes and cruise along the seaside, riding all the way from Kitsilano to Stanley Park and beyond!
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Vancouver
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Vancouver and where to stay.
What To Pack For Vancouver
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Vancouver
Are you heading out into the Canadian wilderness? Are you planning to pass Go and collect $200? Then get yourself sorted with some top-quality insurance! Stay the safe side of bankruptcy my dudes…
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Vancouver
In this guide I covered where to stay in Vancouver depending on your interests, offering the best hotels and hostels by area, and a list of awesome things to do in each neighborhood. I hope it was worth my time!
If you enjoyed this guide, don’t forget that The Broke Backpacker has much more awesome content floating around, so head to the website and get tooled up with all the best travel tips!
Have an awesome trip to Vancouver, stay frosty, and au revoir!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Vancouver.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Vancouver.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Vancouver instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Vancouver to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Vancouver is a great way to maximise your time.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
