Where to Stay in Vancouver, BC: The TOP Areas & Hotels

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Heading to Vancouver, BC and looking for the best place to stay? Well, you’re in the right place!

After living in Vancouver ourselves and taking more trips here than I can count, we’ve explored every corner of this city! We love Vancouver because there are so many different neighborhoods and things to do, so we understand how overwhelming it can be to figure out the perfect place to stay.

This guide breaks down Vancouver’s top neighborhoods, who they’re suitable for, and the top hotel options in each area for every budget. All you have to do is keep reading and book your perfect stay for a fantastic trip to Van!

Overview of the BEST Areas to Stay in Vancouver

Vancouver can be split up in a few different ways. Often people will use the term “Vancouver” to refer to the greater Vancouver Area, which includes the suburb cities of Burnaby, New Westminster, Richmond, and others. 

This article will focus mostly on the most popular neighborhoods in downtown Vancouver, including Yaletown, Gastown, the West End, and Coal Harbour. Staying in any of these areas allows you to be close to major attractions and transportation to get around and explore easily.

At a quick glance, here are some highlights for the best areas to stay in Vancouver:

• Yaletown (Our Favorite!): Great location along the Seawall with close access to concert and sports venues.

• Gastown: Historic area with cobblestone streets, cute boutiques, and trendy cocktail bars.

• West End: Diverse neighborhood with quick access to shopping, Stanley Park, the beach, and lots of restaurants.

• Coal Harbour: Luxury hotels with epic views out over the harbor and mountains. 

Each neighborhood in Vancouver offers something different and has its own personality! Some areas are better for certain types of travelers, whether you’re on a business trip or backpacking the country. 

Below, you’ll read all about each area in detail so that you can decide exactly where to stay in Vancouver!

Yaletown

Honestly, Yaletown is the number one place to stay if you’re visiting Vancouver! Not only is it the nicest area, but there are ample hotels and restaurants, and tons of things to do.

Yaletown is a trendy Vancouver neighborhood situated on the water at False Creek. The Seawall is one of the main attractions, and there will be people walking, running, and cycling along it at all hours of the day, enjoying the gorgeous scenery. 

Residents of Yaletown live in the many upscale high-rise apartment buildings and enjoy the many amazing Vancouver restaurants, bars, and patios. It is also home to Rogers Arena and BC Place, so it’s a great spot to explore if you plan on catching a show or concert. Families visiting Yaletown will enjoy David Lam Park, George Wainborn Park, and the nearby ScienceWorld. 

Mainland Street is a great place to go for patio drinks and a bite to eat. It is a vibrant cobblestone street lined with bars and many of the best restaurants in Yaletown (and all of Vancouver, for that matter!)

Advantages of staying in Yaletown:

• Walkable to many great attractions, restaurants, and bars.
• Quick access to the Seawall to go for a walk, run, or bike ride.
• Beautiful views out over False Creek. 
• Access to the aqua ferry (a fun way to get around the city and explore).

Disadvantages of staying in Yaletown:

• While there is a close SkyTrain station, it is on the Canada Line, which is not as easily connected to the rest of the SkyTrain routes.
• Traffic can be bad and parking expensive, especially on nights with concerts and events at the nearby arenas. 
• Accommodation is a bit pricier due to its prime location.

The Best Places to Stay in Yaletown

Luxury -$$$ 

For a luxury stay in the heart of Vancouver’s entertainment district, the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver is hard to beat. It’s right next to Rogers Arena, BC Place, and a short walk from the False Creek waterfront and Yaletown’s best restaurants.

The rooms are spacious and sleek, and the views of the city, water, or mountains make it feel extra special. You’ll also find a rooftop spa, a massive fitness center, and eight restaurants and lounges on site to indulge in! Prices for a night vary depending on the season, but usually start around $500 CAD for a King or double Queen room.

You can check prices and book JW Marriott Parq Vancouver here on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$$

If you’re looking for a great mid-range option in Yaletown, the Opus Hotel is it! Located near the Yaletown-Roundhouse SkyTrain Station, this hotel is right in the middle of the action. The front desk staff here are energetic and upbeat and will aim to meet your needs- you can even rent bikes from them!

They have an on-site restaurant with in-room massage services. All rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, a work desk, and heated floors, while the more premium rooms have large soaking tubs and gas fireplaces. Prices for a standard king room start as low as $300 CAD in the winter season, but tend togo up in the busy summer months.

Reserve your room at the Opus Hotel here before it books up!

Budget – $

While this hotel is a little bit outside of Yaletown, it is just a few minutes’ walk away. The Sandman Hotel Vancouver is probably the most affordable hotel in the area, with rooms starting at around $250 CAD per night. It offers basic and comfortable accommodations, and each room includes a desk, a coffee maker, and a seating area.

The property has its fair share of amenities, including a fitness center, pool, hot tub, and a restaurant called Moxies that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There is also a popular spot called the Shark Club Bar and Grill right next door!

Check availability for the Sandman Hotel Vancouver here on Booking.com!

Gastown

Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, and it’s seriously one of the most atmospheric spots in the city. Think cobblestone streets, vintage lampposts, and beautifully preserved Victorian architecture—it feels like stepping into another era, but with a modern, hip twist!

The area is packed with character and offers a perfect mix of trendy bars, cozy cafés, art galleries, and independent boutiques. It’s also home to the famous steam clock (yes, it actually whistles on the hour!), which is a must-see for first-time visitors. I’ve done a food tour here before, and let me tell you—the culinary scene is chef’s kiss.

Gastown is ideal for travelers who want a stylish and central base with lots of personality. It’s especially great for younger travelers or anyone who loves a buzzy, creative vibe. I often stay in Gastown myself and always have a blast—it’s one of the best areas to soak up Vancouver’s energy and charm.

Advantages of staying in Gastown:

• Historical neighborhood with interesting architecture and cobblestone streets.
• Tons of trendy bars, cocktail lounges, and restaurants.
• Cute boutiques and art galleries for window (and real) shopping.
• Easy access to Waterfront SkyTrain station and cruise ship terminal.

Disadvantages of staying in Gastown:

• Touristy. It can be busy with tour groups and has a lot of kitschy souvenir shops.
• Bordering the DTES, which has a large homeless population and can be dirty. While it is still safe, most visitors will not want to venture out of Gastown into the DTES.

The Best Places to Stay in Gastown

Luxury – $$$

Delta Hotel by Marriott Vancouver Downtown Suites is a luxurious all-suite hotel located right on the edge of Gastown. The spacious suites offer separate living areas, floor-to-ceiling windows, and all the comforts you’d expect—plus there’s a sleek on-site restaurant and bar perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing!

With the Waterfront Station and top attractions like the Convention Centre and Rogers Arena just a short stroll away, this upscale hotel is a great pick if you want to stay in trendy Gastown. Rooms usually start around $400 CAD per night, and each of them includes a desk, a coffee maker, and a mini fridge.

You can check prices and secure your room here!

Mid-range – $$

Located within a 5-minute walk of the Gastown Steam Clock, the Victorian Hotel has a clean, modern aesthetic set in a beautiful historic building. Built in 1898 during the Gold Rush, this boutique hotel is one of the oldest in all of Vancouver!

All rooms have air-conditioning, laundry service, and super comfy beds. Rates for double rooms with shared bathrooms start around $300 CAD per night, and there are lots of great nearby restaurants and café options. 

Check availability and book your stay online here.

Budget – $

If you’re looking for a budget option, The Cambie Hostel Gastown is the way to go! There are not as many hostel options in Vancouver as in some other large cities, but this one in Gastown is a good option. While it doesn’t have super high ratings, it is a solid option in an excellent location.

Prices are around $50 CAD for a bed in a dorm or around $150 CAD for a private room with a shared bathroom. Complimentary luggage storage is available at this hotel as well.

Book the Cambie Hostel Gastown on either Hostelworld or here on Booking.com.

West End

Stay in the West End if you want easy access to Stanley Park, the beach, and some of Vancouver’s most scenic outdoor spots!

Nestled between downtown, Stanley Park, and the Pacific Ocean, the West End is one of Vancouver’s most laid-back and picturesque neighborhoods. It’s perfect if you’re looking to spend your time walking or biking the Seawall, exploring the park, or soaking up the sun at the beach.

You’ll be just steps from two of the city’s most beautiful beaches—Sunset Beach and English Bay Beach—making this area ideal for a summer stay. Despite being mostly residential, the West End is packed with great restaurants featuring global cuisine, and Denman Street is full of shops and local gems to explore.

The neighborhood is also home to Davie Village, Vancouver’s LGBTQ+ hub, known for its colorful crosswalks, inclusive vibe, and lively energy.

Overall, the West End is a bit of a hidden gem. It’s peaceful but central, and staying near English Bay gives you those postcard-worthy views every day. I’ve stayed here many times and always recommend it—don’t miss a meal at Cactus Club right on the beach for incredible oceanfront dining!

Advantages of staying in the West End:

• Steps from Stanley Park, one of Vancouver’s most iconic green spaces. Walk or bike the scenic seawall, explore forested trails, or check out free attractions like the Totem Poles, Rose Garden, and Spray Park.
• The West End is quieter than other parts of the city, making it perfect for a relaxing stay. It’s also easier to find street parking here, with both free and paid options available.
• English Bay and Sunset Beach are right nearby. These spots are perfect for swimming, volleyball, beach runs, or simply catching one of Vancouver’s jaw-dropping sunsets.

Disadvantages of staying in the West End:

• Far from any SkyTrain station. You will need to either walk 15+ minutes or take a bus to connect to the SkyTrain.
• No main highways or thoroughfares, so traffic can get quite backed up.

The Best Places to Stay in the West End

Luxury – $$$

Located right on the edge of Stanley Park and just a 10-minute walk from English Bay Beach, Times Square Suites Hotel is in the perfect location! This is a great option if you’re traveling with family or a group of friends, as all rooms are suites or apartment style. They come with a full kitchen, one or two bedrooms, and some rooms even have a park view!

I love the rooftop patio at this hotel, and the rooms are super cozy with a gas fireplace and even a washer and dryer. One bedroom suites are usually around $500 CAD per night.

Don’t miss out – Reserve your stay at Times Square Suites here!

Budget – $

While the English Bay Hotel is not the prettiest hotel in Vancouver, it is clean, secure, and is in an awesome location! It’s just a few minutes away from English Bay Beach and has all the basic amenities you need.

Another great feature about this hotel is that each room includes a kitchenette, so you can save even more money and cook in your room. The lobby is open 24/7, and they offer free coffee and hot chocolate. It’s an excellent budget choice with prices starting at only $200 CAD per night.

You can check prices and book the English Bay Hotel here on Booking.com.

Coal Harbour

Coal Harbour is one of the most scenic neighborhoods in Vancouver—though to be fair, the views are pretty great everywhere! Here, you’ll overlook a bustling marina filled with luxury yachts and houseboats, with seaplanes taking off and landing throughout the day. The backdrop? Towering glass skyscrapers on one side and the stunning North Shore mountains on the other.

It’s also right next to the business district, which gives the area an interesting mix of nature and urban energy. There are plenty of spots to grab a drink or bite to eat on a patio with a view—something I always try to do when I’m in the area.

Coal Harbour is in a fantastic location, just a short walk from Gastown, Stanley Park, and even the beaches of the West End. It’s easily one of the best places to stay in the city… if your budget allows. I usually stay elsewhere because of the price tag, but if you’re a luxury traveler, Coal Harbour is the place to be!

Advantages to staying in Coal Harbour:

• Amazing views from every corner!
• Close to Waterfront Station and the Convention Centre, so its perfect if you are visiting for a conference or leaving on a cruise. It is also located near the harbor, where floatplanes take off for trips to Vancouver Island or elsewhere. 

Disadvantages of staying in Coal Harbour:

• Hotels and restaurants are generally very expensive in this area.
• Some cafes or shops will close early as they primarily serve businesses during the day.

The Best Places to Stay in Coal Harbour

Luxury – $$$ 

If you are looking for modern luxury, the Fairmont Pacific Rim is it! The Fairmont is an upscale hotel with a full-service spa, a massive 4,000 sq ft gym, a rooftop swimming pool, and an outdoor lounge area and terrace. The views from this hotel are phenomenal, as it’s right on the waterfront.

The location is also hard to beat; it’s located just a 5-minute walk from the Canada Place cruise ship terminal. There are on-site restaurants that specialize in different cuisines from Italian and Asian to sustainable and organic. Live music is also frequent among the restaurants, but if you’d rather be served inside your room, there is 24/7 room service!

A stay at the Fairmont Pacific Rim is not a stay you will regret! Rooms average around $700 CAD a night- but if you can afford it, it’s worth the high price tag.

You can check prices and book the Fairmont Pacific Rim here!

Luxury- $$$ 

The Pan Pacific Vancouver is featured in so many iconic pictures of Vancouver’s waterfront area — it’s the hotel under the white sales next to Canada Place. It’s right next to the cruise ship terminal and has epic views out over the harbor and ocean. The rooms themselves are pleasant (many offering views!) and have a seating area, mini bar, and bathrooms are adorned with marble.

The on-site Oceans 999 restaurant serves Asian fusion cuisine, and the Coal Harbour Bar features an outdoor terrace with cocktails. There is also a luxurious spa with a sauna and heated outdoor pool on site. For an all-around delightful stay with impressive views and amenities, you can expect the price with rooms starting around $500 CAD per night.

Available rooms don’t last long – secure your spot at this luxurious hotel today!

Mid-range – $$

The Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront is a fantastic mid-range option, as it is close to the waterfront and has some great views out over Coal Harbour. From this area, it is super easy to walk or bike through Stanley Park, and you can also access the SkyTrain easily.

It has an indoor pool and fitness center, along with an on-site restaurant. The rooms look pretty standard, but all of them have a Juliette balcony and a Keurig. Prices start at approximately $300 CAD a night.

You can check prices and book the Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront online here!

Other Things to do While You’re in Vancouver

Vancouver is a city filled with tons of things to do and see. So while you’re here, be sure not to miss some of the top attractions and activities!

• Whale Watching – Without a doubt, the most popular tour in Vancouver is whale watching. Set off from the city on a half-day on the ocean looking for whales. If you’re lucky, you might even see Orcas (also known as Killer Whales.) This whale-watching tour is a ton of fun, and at only about $245 CAD it is good value too!

• Ride in a Seaplane – Taking off and landing on the ocean is super exciting, and then the views from the air are breathtaking. This seaplane ride lasts for 20 minutes and costs $168 CAD. It departs and returns to Coal Harbour in downtown Vancouver. The best part is that seaplane tours in Vancouver operate all year round!

• Eat ALL the food! – Vancouver is a foodie destination. Showcasing cuisine from all around the world in top-rated restaurants, you really need to make an effort to eat out a few times while in Vancouver. We loved this highly rated food tour because it made it easy to find the best food in the city! It’s also a bang for the buck because we ate SO much food!

• Enjoy a sunset dinner cruise – Since the city is surrounded by water, the best way to experience it is on this sunset dinner cruise! We’ve actually done this dinner cruise a few times – it was that good! The sunset views with wine and an amazing dinner are hard to beat, so be sure to book it in advance.

• Bicycle through Stanley Park – Exploring Stanley Park on this bicycle tour allows you to see the most in a short amount of time! This is a fantastic way to learn about the park’s unique history as it’s led by a local guide. They also make it easy by providing the bike, helmet, and route – all you have to do is pedal!

Renting a Car in British Columbia

If you’re arriving in British Columbia via plane, then I can’t recommend getting a rental car enough. British Columbia is a large province, and traveling between the best places to visit in BC requires transport. Although you can use public transport on some occasions, this means your trip will not only require more time but more planning.

Car rental in Canada isn’t relatively cheap, but it’s not that expensive either, especially if you get a budget car. The cheapest car with a pick-up and drop-off in different locations is around $100 CAD per day. The price does vary though, depending on the time of year. For car rentals, I use the website Discover Cars. It’s a search engine with lots of deals with good customer service. In fact, I’ve used Discover Cars all over the world, including in Chile, New Zealand, and Australia. Read my honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!

Another popular option is to rent a campervan or motorhome (only for the brave in winter). Using Motorhome Republic, you can search hundreds of deals across multiple companies to pick a great vehicle and the cheapest price. Having a motorhome is a stunning way to see Canada and you can often camp for free or very cheap in the most beautiful places imaginable! Read my tips on using Motorhome Republic here before you book!

And if you’re planning to visit the Canadian Rockies during your trip, we highly recommend Smile Campervans. Based in Calgary, this local company provides compact campervans fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and affordable road trip adventure!

In fact, Smile Campervans has actually given us a special discount code for our readers! Use the code DESTINATIONLESSTRAVEL at checkout to get 5% off your campervan rental! Click here to browse availability, prices, and book with our discount code!

Thanks for reading!

Vancouver is an awesome city with so much to see and do! There are also a ton of areas to stay, each with its own pros and cons. I hope this blog helped you figure out what area is best for you and what hotel to stay in based on your budget and preferences.

I know that whatever you choose, you’ll enjoy your visit to Vancouver, so be sure to check out more of our Vancouver blogs! Here are a few resources to help you plan the ultimate Vancouver getaway:

21 BEST Stops on the Drive from Vancouver to Banff: Road Trip Itinerary

33 Fun Things to do in Vancouver in Winter

How to Spend a Weekend in Vancouver!