Vancouver travel Guide

Vancouver travel guide

National Airports

The main airport in Vancouver is the Vancouver International Airport (YVR). It is located about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) south of downtown Vancouver and is the second-busiest airport in Canada. Some other smaller airports in the Vancouver area include Abbotsford International Airport (YXX), located about 68 kilometers (42 miles) southeast of Vancouver, and the Victoria International Airport (YYJ), located on Vancouver Island, which is accessible by ferry from Vancouver.

Trains in Vancouver

Vancouver has a passenger rail system called SkyTrain, which operates on three lines: the Expo Line, the Millennium Line, and the Canada Line. The SkyTrain connects downtown Vancouver with several suburbs and neighboring cities, as well as the Vancouver International Airport. The trains operate seven days a week and run from early morning until late at night. The fare for the SkyTrain is based on zones, with the cost increasing as you travel further from downtown Vancouver.

Buses in Vancouver

Vancouver has an extensive bus network operated by TransLink, which provides transportation throughout the city and surrounding areas. The bus system includes both regular buses and express buses that operate on certain routes during peak hours. The buses operate seven days a week, and the schedule and fare vary depending on the route. TransLink also offers a convenient payment system called Compass Card, which allows passengers to pay their fares by tapping their card on the card reader when boarding the bus. The card can be loaded with funds in advance or set up with a monthly pass for unlimited rides.

How to get to Vancouver

Vancouver is a major city and transportation hub in western Canada, and there are several ways to get there:

By air: Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the major airport serving the city, with flights from destinations around the world. From the airport, you can take a taxi, ride-share service, or public transit to reach your final destination.

By train: Via Rail operates train services to Vancouver from several cities in Canada, including Toronto, Edmonton, and Jasper. The train journey offers stunning views of the Canadian Rockies and other scenic landscapes.

By bus: Several bus companies offer services to Vancouver from cities in Canada and the US, including Greyhound, BoltBus, and Pacific Coach Lines.

By car: Vancouver is easily accessible by car, with major highways connecting the city to other cities in Canada and the US. However, traffic can be heavy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

Once you arrive in Vancouver, the city has an extensive public transportation system including buses, trains, and ferries, as well as taxi and ride-share services, making it easy to get around and explore.

What is the best time to travel to Vancouver

The best time to travel to Vancouver largely depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do while you’re there.

Generally, the most popular time to visit Vancouver is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is mild and sunny, and many outdoor activities and festivals are happening. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds and save some money, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is still pleasant but with fewer tourists. During these seasons, you can also catch some beautiful cherry blossoms in the city.

Winter (December to February) is the low season in Vancouver, but it can still be an enjoyable time to visit if you’re interested in skiing or snowboarding at nearby resorts. The city also has a festive atmosphere during the holiday season with Christmas markets and events.

How to get around Vancouver

Getting around Vancouver, Canada, is relatively easy thanks to its well-developed transportation infrastructure. Here are some ways you can navigate the city:

Public Transit (TransLink): Vancouver has an extensive public transit system operated by TransLink, which includes buses, SkyTrain (automated rapid transit system), SeaBus (passenger ferry), and West Coast Express (commuter rail). You can purchase tickets at stations or use contactless payment methods like the Compass Card for seamless travel.

SkyTrain: SkyTrain is a popular choice for traveling within the city and to neighboring areas. It consists of three lines: Expo Line, Millennium Line, and Canada Line. Each line connects various parts of Vancouver and its suburbs, including Vancouver International Airport (YVR).

Bus: TransLink operates a comprehensive bus network that covers most neighborhoods in Vancouver and surrounding areas. Bus routes complement SkyTrain and SeaBus services, providing extensive coverage throughout the city.

SeaBus: SeaBus offers a scenic mode of transportation across Burrard Inlet between downtown Vancouver (Waterfront Station) and the North Shore (Lonsdale Quay in North Vancouver). It runs every 15-30 minutes, depending on the time of day.

Ferry Services: Apart from SeaBus, there are other ferry services connecting Vancouver to nearby islands and destinations, such as Granville Island and False Creek Ferries.

Cycling: Vancouver is a bike-friendly city with numerous dedicated bike lanes and paths. You can rent bikes from various rental shops or make use of public bike-sharing systems like Mobi by Shaw Go to explore the city on two wheels.

Walking: Many neighborhoods in Vancouver, especially downtown and surrounding areas, are pedestrian-friendly. Walking is an excellent way to explore the city’s vibrant streets, parks, and waterfronts.

Taxi and Ride-Hailing Services: Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are available in Vancouver for convenient point-to-point travel, especially during late hours or when public transit may not be readily accessible.

Driving: While driving is an option, traffic congestion and limited parking in the city center can make it less convenient compared to public transit, especially during peak hours.

Water Taxis: Water taxis operate in certain areas of Vancouver, providing a unique and scenic mode of transportation, particularly in False Creek and Coal Harbour.

Consider your destination, budget, and preferences when choosing the most suitable mode of transportation in Vancouver.

Accommodations in Vancouver

Vancouver has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some popular options:

Hotels: Vancouver has many hotels ranging from budget to luxury. Some popular hotel chains in the city include Fairmont, Marriott, and Hilton.

Hostels: If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation, there are several hostels in Vancouver. Some popular options include HI Vancouver Central, Samesun Vancouver, and Cambie Hostel Gastown.

Vacation Rentals: Vacation rentals such as apartments, condos, and houses can be a great option for families or groups. Websites like Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway offer a wide range of vacation rentals in Vancouver.

Bed and Breakfasts: Vancouver has several charming bed and breakfasts, which can be a great option if you’re looking for a more personalized and intimate experience. Some popular bed and breakfasts include West End Guest House and The Douglas Guest House.

Campgrounds: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, there are several campgrounds in and around Vancouver. Some popular campgrounds include Capilano River RV Park, Burnaby Cariboo RV Park, and Dogwood Campgrounds.