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written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 11.08.2024
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.
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.
Browse hundreds of accommodations in Downtown Vancouver to fit any budget.
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.
Browse hundreds of accommodations in the West End to fit any budget.
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.
Browse hundreds of accommodations in Gastown to fit any budget.
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.
Browse hundreds of accommodations in Coal Harbour to fit any budget.
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.
Browse hundreds of accommodations in Granville Street to fit any budget.
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.
Browse hundreds of accommodations in Commercial Drive to fit any budget.
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
Browse hundreds of accommodations in Yaletown to fit any budget.
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.
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.
We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.
written by
Dre Roelandt
updated 11.08.2024
Dre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. Dre is a freelance writer and artist with a passion for travelling. They are an in-house Senior Content Editor at Rough Guides.
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