What is the best area to stay in Vancouver?

 Walkable, surrounded by nature, and with tons of sites to see: Vancouver is a great place to take a trip. As you plan your visit to this stunning Canadian metropolis, one of the most crucial decisions you'll make is where to stay. From the cultural hub of Downtown, to the natural oasis of Stanley Park, here's our guide to the best area to stay in Vancouver with tips from our local travel experts. 

Best area to stay in Vancouver for first-time visitors: Downtown

• My recommendation: The Listel Hotel Vancouver
• Location: Central Vancouver, bordered by Burrard Inlet to the north and False Creek to the south
• Pros: Central location with easy access to major attractions. Walking distance to many sights like Granville Island, Stanley Park, and Gastown. Vibrant city atmosphere.s
• Cons: Can be busy and crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Traffic congestion and limited parking options. Some areas may feel less authentic or "local" than residential neighborhoods.

Downtown Vancouver is the central hub of the city, and is perfect if you’re visiting for the first time. It's jam-packed with Vancouver's must-see spots, like the lookout at Harbour Centre, the Vancouver Art Gallery, and the charming Gastown area. Plus, you'll be super close to the beautiful Vancouver Harbour and Stanley Park, the city's sprawling urban oasis.

Here you'll find modern skyscrapers mixed with old buildings that have tons of history. The streets are lined with trees, and there are even beaches nearby, adding a natural vibe to the city.  The area buzzes with energy during the day as locals and tourists alike explore its many shops, cafes, and cultural venues

If you're hungry, check out Miku for some amazing aburi-style sushi with a view of the waterfront, or try Forage for fresh, local food that really gives you a taste of British Columbia. Or try the farm-to-table creations at Forage for a true taste of British Columbia. 

Why I love it: Downtown Vancouver is the perfect microcosm of what makes this city so special. 

Best hotels in Downtown Vancouver

• Best for a boutique stay: Grand Park Hotel & Suites Downtown Vancouver. This charming boutique hotel offers a personalized experience in the heart of downtown. With cozy rooms, attentive service, and a homey atmosphere, it's perfect for travelers seeking an intimate, non-chain accommodation option.
• Best for art enthusiasts: The Listel Hotel Vancouver. Dubbed Vancouver's most art-full hotel, The Listel features curated artworks throughout its premises. Its dedication to local culture, eco-friendly practices, and comfortable rooms make it ideal for culturally-minded visitors seeking inspiration.
• Best for luxury apartment-style living: Level Vancouver Yaletown - Seymour. Boasting spacious, high-end suites with full kitchens and modern amenities, Level Vancouver Yaletown - Seymour offers a luxurious residential experience. Its prime location and upscale facilities cater to discerning travelers desiring comfort and independence.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Downtown Vancouver to fit any budget.

Best area to stay for families: West End

• My recommendation: Sonder at Revival
• Location: Western edge of downtown Vancouver, bordered by Stanley Park and English Bay
• Pros: Close to family-friendly attractions like Stanley Park and beaches. Quiet residential areas with tree-lined streets. Easy access to public transit.
• Cons: Can be busy during summer months, especially near beaches. Fewer high-end shopping options compared to other downtown areas.

The West End is a lively, family-friendly neighborhood right between downtown Vancouver and Stanley Park. Picture tree-lined streets that lead you to some of the city's favorite spots, like the huge urban oasis of Stanley Park, the beautiful English Bay Beach, and the Vancouver Aquarium. You can take relaxing strolls along the seawall, have picnics in the park, or spend afternoons building sandcastles on the beach.

The diverse community here makes for a welcoming vibe, mixing long-time residents with young families. You'll see a mix of heritage homes, low-rise apartments, and the occasional high-rise, all adding to the area's unique charm.

Besides the major attractions, check out the kid-friendly Gordon Southam Observatory or enjoy a quiet moment at the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden.

Why I love it: The West End is a safe, walkable neighborhood with easy access to beaches, parks, and family-friendly attractions.

Best hotels in the West End

• Best for a long-term stay: Carmana Hotel & Suites. Offering spacious suites with fully-equipped kitchens, Carmana is ideal for extended visits. Its home-like atmosphere, coupled with hotel amenities and a prime downtown location, provides comfort for longer-term guests.
• Best for stylish, self-catering accommodations: Sonder at Revival. This modern aparthotel combines the consistency of a hotel with the freedom of an apartment. Featuring sleek, well-designed units with kitchenettes, it's perfect for independent travelers seeking a contemporary urban experience.
• Best for budget-friendly: Divya Sutra Suites on Robson Downtown Vancouver. Located on vibrant Robson Street, these affordable suites offer a convenient base for exploring Vancouver. With basic amenities and a kitchenette, it's suitable for cost-conscious travelers wanting a central location.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in the West End to fit any budget.

Best area to stay in Vancouver for foodies: Gastown

• My recommendation: The St. Regis Hotel
• Location: Northeast corner of downtown Vancouver, adjacent to the waterfront
• Pros:  Diverse range of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining. Historic neighborhood with charming cobblestone streets. Vibrant cocktail and bar scene
• Cons: Noise from nightlife and busy streets. Accommodations can be pricey, especially in heritage buildings.

Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighborhood: cobblestone streets lined with vintage lampposts lead to an array of boutique shops, art galleries, and the famous steam clock. This historic district is also home to some of the city's most innovative restaurants and bars, making it a paradise for foodies

The culinary scene in Gastown is diverse and exciting, offering everything from farm-to-table concepts to international fusion cuisine. Don't miss L'Abattoir for its French-influenced Pacific Northwest fare, or Pourhouse for craft cocktails in a vintage setting. 

For a unique experience, try the award-winning Pidgin, which blends Asian and French flavors in unexpected ways.

The Diamond is a hidden gem, offering expertly crafted cocktails in a sleek, second-floor space with views of the neighborhood. 

The ambiance in Gastown is electric, with a perfect balance of old-world charm and contemporary buzz. 

Why I love it: Gastown is a foodie's dream come true, there’s plenty to try here.

Best hotels in Gastown

• Best for a boutique stay: The St. Regis Hotel. This intimate, historic hotel provides personalized service in a charming setting. With elegantly appointed rooms, complimentary breakfast, and a central location, it offers a unique and luxurious experience for discerning travelers seeking a non-chain atmosphere.
• Best for budget-conscious travelers: Sandman Hotel Vancouver Downtown. Offering affordable accommodations in a central location, this hotel provides comfortable rooms and basic amenities. It's perfect for tourists and budget-minded visitors who want to explore Vancouver without breaking the bank on lodging.
• Best for modern design enthusiasts: EXchange Hotel Vancouver. Housed in a beautifully restored heritage building, this boutique hotel blends historical charm with contemporary aesthetics. Its sleek interiors, high-tech amenities, and eco-friendly practices appeal to travelers who appreciate cutting-edge design and sustainability.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Gastown to fit any budget.

Best area to stay for luxury travelers: Coal Harbour

• My recommendation:Paradox Hotel Vancouver
• Location: Northern edge of downtown Vancouver, bordering Burrard Inlet and Stanley Park
• Pros: Stunning waterfront views of the harbor. High-end, modern condos and luxury hotels. Clean, safe, and well-maintained neighborhood
• Cons: Can be quite expensive, especially for accommodations with water views. Can feel a bit sterile or lacking in local character to some visitors.

Coal Harbour is a picturesque waterfront neighborhood in downtown Vancouver, offering breathtaking views of the North Shore Mountains and Stanley Park. 

Despite being in the heart of the city, the neighborhood maintains a serene atmosphere with its well-manicured waterfront walkways and parks. It attracts a mix of business travelers, tourists, and affluent locals, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming vibe.

Key attractions include the Vancouver Convention Centre, the Olympic Cauldron, and Harbour Green Park. You can also watch seaplanes take off and land at the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre throughout the day. 

For shopping, check out the high-end boutiques along Alberni Street. Art enthusiasts will love the public art installations scattered throughout the area, including Douglas Coupland's Digital Orca sculpture.

Why I love it: Coal Harbour is a place where you can start your day with a peaceful waterfront stroll, indulge in world-class dining, and end the evening with a cocktail overlooking the twinkling city lights reflected in the harbor.

Best hotels in Coal Harbour

• Best for a boutique stay: Paradox Hotel Vancouver offers a unique, design-focused experience in downtown. With stylish rooms, innovative amenities, and personalized service, it caters to travelers seeking a distinctive boutique atmosphere in the heart of the city.
• Best for luxury: Fairmont Pacific Rim epitomizes luxury in Vancouver. Boasting breathtaking harbor views, exquisite dining options, a world-class spa, and impeccable service, this hotel provides an unparalleled upscale experience for discerning guests.
• Best for city views: Vancouver Marriott Pinnacle Downtown Hotel. Centrally located, this upscale hotel boasts rooms with breathtaking cityscape vistas. Its prime position, coupled with top-notch amenities and dining options, makes it perfect for travelers seeking an elevated urban experience in Vancouver.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Coal Harbour to fit any budget.

Best area to stay in Vancouver for sightseeing: Granville Street

• My recommendation: Hilton Vancouver Downtown
• Location: Close to Yaletown-Roundhouse Station, runs through downtown Vancouver
• Pros:  Central location, easy access to many attractions. Good public transit connections, including SkyTrain. Walking distance to shopping areas and restaurants.
• Cons: Can be noisy, especially at night due to nightlife. Busy with traffic and pedestrians. Some areas may feel less upscale or family-friendly.

Granville Street is the lively core of downtown Vancouver, blending urban energy with plenty of tourist attractions. It's the city's entertainment hub, with the iconic neon signs of historic theaters like the Orpheum and Vogue lighting up the night. 

During the day, you can explore nearby attractions. In the neighborhood, you can shop at Pacific Centre mall, catch a comedy show at Yuk Yuk's, or take a short walk to the Vancouver Art Gallery. On Sundays, don't miss the Yaletown Farmers Market for local produce and artisanal goods.

For unique dining experiences, check out The Templeton, a retro diner serving comfort food with a twist, or The Warehouse, known for its budget-friendly menu and quirky atmosphere. If you're into bar hopping, 

The Roxy is a Vancouver institution famous for live music, and Venue Nightclub is perfect for its cutting-edge sound system and dance floor.

For a more relaxed evening, The Cinematheque offers independent and classic films in an intimate setting.

Why I love it: Granville Street is an ideal base for experiencing the city's vibrant urban core.

Best hotels in Granville Street

• Best for a boutique stay: Hotel Belmont Vancouver MGallery. This stylish boutique hotel offers a unique blend of modern amenities and vintage charm. Located in downtown Vancouver, it features eclectic decor, comfortable rooms, and personalized service for a memorable stay.
• Best for stunning views: Hilton Vancouver Downtown. Situated in the heart of Vancouver, this Hilton property provides upscale accommodation with stunning city views. It offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, on-site dining options, and easy access to popular attractions.
• Best for business stay: Best Western Premier Chateau Granville Hotel. This all-suite hotel in downtown Vancouver caters to both business and leisure travelers. It features spacious accommodations, a restaurant, fitness facilities, and versatile meeting spaces for conferences and events.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Granville Street to fit any budget.

Where to stay in Vancouver for a local experience: Commercial Drive

• My recommendation: Art Deco Broadway
• Location: East Vancouver, about 5 km east of downtown
• Pros: Eclectic mix of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Vibrant arts and music scene. Less touristy, more authentic local vibe.
• Cons: Further from main tourist attractions. Limited high-end accommodations.

Commercial Drive, affectionately known as "The Drive" by locals, is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood in East Vancouver. The vibe here is bohemian and laid-back, with colorful murals on building walls, sidewalk cafes, and small boutiques lining the street. The area has a strong Italian heritage, evident in its numerous delis and cafes, but it's also known for its counter-culture feel and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere.

Key attractions include Trout Lake and John Hendry Park, perfect for picnics and outdoor activities, and the Rio Theatre, an independent cinema showcasing unique films and live performances. For a truly local experience, grab a cup of organic coffee at Continental Coffee House, a neighborhood institution.

On weekends, don't miss the East Vancouver Farmers Market for fresh local produce and artisanal goods.

Why I love it: Commercial Drive offers an authentic slice of Vancouver life, away from the tourist crowds.

Best hotels in Commercial Drive

• Best for a central stay: Georgian Court Hotel. Nestled in downtown Vancouver, this elegant hotel offers a perfect base for city adventures. With comfortable rooms, on-site dining, and easy access to attractions, it's ideal for curious travelers.
• Best for architecture enthusiasts: Art Deco Broadway. Step back in time at this beautifully preserved Art Deco gem. Featuring original 1920s details, ornate facades, and period-appropriate decor, it's a living museum of this iconic architectural style.
• Best for luxury seekers: JW Marriott Parq Vancouver. Indulge in opulence at this upscale resort. Boasting stunning city views, a world-class spa, multiple fine dining options, and impeccable service, it's perfect for those desiring a lavish getaway.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Commercial Drive to fit any budget.

Best area to stay for an upscale and hip experience: Yaletown

• My recommendation: OPUS Vancouver
• Location: Close to downtown Vancouver and False Creek waterfront
• Pros: Trendy restaurants and bars. High-end boutiques and shops. Modern, loft-style condos and hotels.
• Cons: Can be expensive. Busy and potentially noisy, especially on weekends. Limited parking options.

Yaletown is a vibrant, revitalized warehouse district that has become one of Vancouver's trendiest neighborhoods. Once an industrial area, it's now home to sleek high-rise condos, chic boutiques, and some of the city's best restaurants.

Yaletown boasts an impressive culinary scene. For a unique dinner, try Blue Water Cafe for its acclaimed sustainable seafood or Minami for innovative aburi-style sushi. Bar hop along Hamilton and Mainland streets, stopping at The New Oxford for craft cocktails in a British-inspired setting, or UVA Wine & Cocktail Bar for an extensive wine list and expertly mixed drinks.

Beyond dining and nightlife, Yaletown offers plenty to do. Shop at boutique stores like Fine Finds Boutique or Brooklyn Clothing, relax at one of the many spas such as Skoah, or rent a paddleboard at Granville Island Boat Rentals to explore False Creek. 

On summer weekends, don't miss the Yaletown Farmers Market for local produce and artisanal goods. And while here, be sure to check out the Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre, a historic train turntable turned modern community hub.

Why I love it: Yaletown transformed industrial spaces, buzzing restaurant scene, and proximity to the water make it an ideal base

Best hotels in Yaletown

• Best for a boutique stay: OPUS Vancouver. This stylish hotel offers personalized service and vibrant decor in the heart of Yaletown. With unique rooms, an award-winning restaurant, and complimentary bikes, OPUS Vancouver ensures an unforgettable boutique experience for discerning travelers.
• Best for a home away from home: Level Vancouver Yaletown - Seymour. Ideal for longer visits, Level Vancouver provides spacious apartment-style accommodations with full kitchens and in-suite laundry. Guests enjoy hotel amenities like a fitness center and outdoor pool, perfect for those seeking a home-away-from-home experience.
• Best for views:  the DOUGLAS, Autograph Collection. Blending urban sophistication with natural elements, the DOUGLAS offers upscale rooms and stunning views. Located in Parq Vancouver, it provides easy access to entertainment, dining, and outdoor spaces, creating a luxurious retreat within the city.

Browse hundreds of accommodations in Yaletown to fit any budget.

Areas that are less popular with tourists

When you're planning a trip to Vancouver, it's good to know which neighborhoods might not be the best for tourists.  

It's important to note that these areas are part of Vancouver's diverse urban fabric and are home to many residents.

While they may not be ideal for tourist accommodation, they shouldn't be viewed as "no-go" zones. Vancouver is generally a safe city, and with normal precautions, visitors can explore most areas without significant concern.

• Downtown Eastside: The Downtown Eastside has faced significant challenges over the years. While there are ongoing efforts to improve conditions, it's still a complex neighborhood. Violent crime against tourists is rare, but the visible social issues can be distressing for some visitors.
• Marpole: Marpole isn't dangerous, but it might not offer the best experience for tourists. It lacks tourist amenities and has limited dining and entertainment options. Plus, it's less convenient for accessing main attractions compared to more central areas.

For the best Vancouver experience, especially if it's your first time, you might prefer staying in more central, tourist-friendly neighborhoods like Downtown, Yaletown, or the West End. These areas provide easy access to attractions, dining, and transportation options.

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