
Vancouver is my favorite city in Canada. Close to both the mountains and the sea, it’s easy to see why this city is consistently ranked as one of the world’s best places to live. It has everything.
I first visited on a family trip in 2004, and have returned a few times over the years, charmed by the city’s amazing sushi, expansive green spaces (don’t miss Stanley Park!), friends, quality of life, and easy access to nearby hiking trails.
But while the city is amazing and has a lot to see and do, it’s also big and spread out. There are many different areas and hotels to choose from. Plus, it’s one of the most expensive cities in the country, so many hotels here are overpriced.
To help you get the best value and enjoy your stay, here is a list of the best hotels in Vancouver, based on my 20 years of visiting the city.
1. Rosedale on Robson Suites Hotel
Located in upscale Yaletown, this 3-star hotel is perfect for budget-conscious travelers. Rooms here include kitchenettes with a microwave, stovetop, and refrigerator, so you can save money by cooking. (I love eating out in Vancouver, but sushi adds up to everything!) The rooms aren’t all that stylish (think worn carpets and drab walls), but there’s more of an emphasis on function over form here.
The good thing is that a continental breakfast with fresh waffles is served every morning (a great money-saving perk). The rooms themselves are spacious and have plenty of natural light. The beds are very comfortable and each room has a TV and desk. The hotel also features an indoor swimming pool, a gym and a relaxing garden terrace. The only downside is that the free Wi-Fi is limited (1 device per room). But overall, I think it’s the best value hotel in the area and a great choice for travelers on a budget.
2. Coast Coal Harbor Vancouver Hotel
Located just two blocks from the waterfront, this 4-star hotel offers incredible value for its location. There’s a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, spa and fully equipped gym available when the weather is nice (something you’ll appreciate more and more as you get older). There is also a bar and restaurant on site, focusing on fresh local cuisine. But what I really like about it is that it’s a short walk to Stanley Park. It’s the largest park in Vancouver and is even bigger than Central Park in New York!
Rooms include large 55-inch flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, desks and extra-soft beds. The minimally designed rooms look a bit dated (the carpets and colors aren’t very stylish in my opinion) but are spacious and airy thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. The bathroom is bright and I really like the fact that it has a bidet and a shower with adequate water pressure. Breakfast is not included, but many delicious à la carte options are available. Offering a variety of menu items, from healthy breakfast Power Bowls to hearty steak and eggs, it’s a great upscale choice in a great location.
3. Fairmont Pacific Rim
This is a gorgeous 5 star hotel. Boasting a beautiful rooftop pool with stunning views, a lounge with live music every night, an expansive fitness centre, a luxurious spa and an award-winning cocktail bar, this hotel has a lot to offer. An amazing (but expensive) breakfast is also available if you’re in the mood for decadent dishes like crab and avocado Benedict or brioche French toast. The concierge can rent bicycles (or e-bikes) and even help with childcare arrangements if needed. But what I really like and what is very unique is that the hotel has a private library and a bookstore with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves along the walls. It’s really amazing.
Rooms are stylish and spacious, with a contemporary design featuring light tones and soft wood accents. It also features large windows, a desk for your work, and plush beds with luxurious linens. The marble bathroom is spacious and bright, and the shower has good water pressure. This is the pinnacle of luxury and the perfect choice if you need a little pampering. It is a hotel that feels like a resort in itself.
4. Blue Horizon Hotel
This modern 4-star hotel offers great value. There is an indoor swimming pool, a small gym with basic exercises (including weights), a sauna and a steam room. There is also an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast. Although not included, there are plenty of options for every diet.
The rooms are spacious and feature a desk, Nespresso machine, flat-screen TV with Chromecast, mini-fridge, safe, electric kettle and very comfortable beds. The bathroom is not large, but the shower has good water pressure (always a big plus for me) and bathrobes and slippers are included. But what I really like is that all the rooms are corner rooms with private balconies, offering amazing views of the bay, mountains or city. Stay here if you plan to eat out or shop, as there are plenty of options nearby.
5. Granville Island Hotel
This hotel is the only hotel on Granville Island, one of the city’s most popular areas (a large public market is located here). This 3-star hotel has everything you need for a comfortable and affordable stay. There is a spa, sauna and gym, and e-bikes are available for hire if you want to explore the area. I love riding my bike around here in the summer.
The rooms here aren’t very stylish (think gray carpets and bare walls), but they are quite large and have lots of natural light. Rooms feature large beds, desks, flat-screen TVs, coffee/tea makers, free toiletries and a well-stocked minibar. The bathroom is not large, but everything is modern and clean and the shower has good water pressure. Breakfast is not included, but it is delicious and has a variety of options (eggs, French toast, fresh fruit, etc.).
Despite being very centrally located, the hotel still has a nice little resort feel with great views of the marina. If you want to stay in the heart of the action, this hotel is your choice.
Vancouver is a huge city with tons of hotels to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a budget hotel or a luxurious stay, you can’t go wrong with any of the hotels above. Choose the one that suits your needs and you’ll have a great time in my favorite Canadian city!
Booking a Vacation to Vancouver: Logistics Tips and Tricks
flight reservation
Find cheap flights with Skyscanner. It’s my favorite search engine. We search websites and airlines around the world so you always have all the information!
Accommodation Reservation
You can book hostels through Hostelworld, which offers the largest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, try Booking.com. We consistently offer the lowest rates on guesthouses and budget hotels.
If you prefer staying in hostels, this post lists all of my favorite hostels.
And, if you’re wondering which part of the city to stay in, here’s a breakdown of my neighborhoods in Vancouver!
Don’t forget travel insurance
Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft and cancellation. Comprehensive protection in case something goes wrong. I can’t go on a trip without it, as I’ve had to use it several times in the past. Here are some of my favorite companies that offer the best service and value:
Are you looking for the best company to help you save money?
Check out my resources page for the best companies to use when traveling. I list everything I use to save money on the go. You can also save money when traveling.
Want more information about Vancouver?
Be sure to visit my powerful destination guide to Vancouver for more planning tips!