Not all neighbourhoods are created equal, and where you stay can make or break your experience of a city. Vancouver neighbourhoods all have their own vibe to them, some with rows of chic city streets on full display, others with little coffee shops dotting every corner.
Depending on what you’re looking for out of a trip to Vancouver, the neighbourhood you’ll want to stay in is going to vary. Each offers a different sort of trip — from afternoons scouring thrift stores to morning walks along the seawall.
If you have something in the books or are thinking of making your way to the West Coast then fear not, because we have a breakdown of some of the best Vancouver neighbourhoods to stay in.
Mount Pleasant
You’re the trendy cool type who likes digging through quirky stores for unique finds? Stay here.
Mount Pleasant has a distinctly cool vibe, with streets filled with eclectic businesses, local coffee shops, and charming boutiques.
Basing your trip from here will mean lots of cool finds, walks down Main St., and sips of local draft beers. It’s outside of the downtown core of Vancouver, a bit removed but with enough to do that you won’t get bored.
If you want to avoid the big tourist attractions and are looking for a bit of an off-beat trip, this is the spot.
Yaletown
With its own set of tasty restaurants and trendy boutiques, this neighbourhood is a bit more upscale. The glassy apartments and modern storefronts live in opposition to the character-filled buildings and public art murals in Mount Pleasant.
It’s chic city vibes here with an aesthetic look that makes you feel a bit more elevated just walking around. Stroll along the cobblestone streets lined with spas, salons, and shops or walk over to the seawall.
Staying here will get you out and about all day, and enjoying a nice cocktail at a cool bar by night.
False Creek
This is a bit of a quieter area but still has lots to do. Part of the seawall is right here too, giving you perfect access to the oceanside walk that’s most likely on your Vancouver itinerary. Plus Granville Island is also here, which is one of the most popular tourist stops in the city. With a public market and lots of restaurants and things to do it’s a must-do if you’re visiting the city.
You can also take the Aquabus around False Creek which is a fun way to get to different sights and get out on the water. Don’t forget to grab some donuts from Lee’s while you’re at it.
If you want a slightly more chill stay but with loads of activities that are pretty accessible, this is a great area to stay in.
The Drive
This star — and the namesake — of this busy neighbourhood is the long road of Commercial Drive, which is overflowing with all the food spots you can imagine. If you want to eat and eat well, then stay in this area.
The strip of colourful businesses has everything you could want really, but the food is at the forefront. There’s restaurant after restaurant offering a wide variety of cuisines. The neighbourhood is also home to Vancouver’s Little Italy, with some of the best Italian food in the city. After a day exploring the local businesses here and soaking up the lively atmosphere of the area, you can keep the party going. There’s dancing, live music, and a bustling bar scene.
Kitsilano
If you’re travelling from a land-locked provience looking for that ocean air, then Kits is the place for you.
This is one of the most popular neighbourhoods in the city, home ot Kitsalino Beach. In the summer months thesandy shores of Kits are bumping with people, soaking up the sun, enjoying the water, and taking in the mountain views.
It’s another neighbourhood outside of downtown that has it’s own distinct mood to it. Here you’ll find people walking along the sidewalk with a yoga mat in hand, often sporting Lululemon. It’s laid back beachy vibes but active with cyclist and runners going by.
There’s lots of restaurants and little shops here to, so you can grab a bite before hitting up the beach. Or grab some Tacofino and take it down to the beach for a picnic with a view.
North Vancouver
Technically North Vancouver is a city in its own right, within Metro Vancouver, but is right across the water and is the ideal place to stay for the outdoorsy people visiting the city. The downside about heading over the the North Shore is that it’s harder to get to (further from the airport), so best if you’re staying longer.
Many flock to Vancouver with the promise of West Coast hiking and the views to go along with it, and North Vancouver has some of the best hiking trails near the city.
There’s everything from easy strolls that take you past massive trees in lush forests, to waterfall trails and steep climbs. Lynn Canyon Park is the perfect place to explore for some beautiful hikes that aren’t too hard. Also there’s a beautiful free suspension bridge in the park, that’s a great option for those who don’t want to pay for Capilano. Plus, the legendary Grouse Grind is also here if you want a challenge.
Aside from hiking the waterfront area here is full of stores and restaurants, or you can head over to Deep Cove to get a dose of small-town life in the charming seaside community.
Within the city, there are so many different areas and cool neighbourhoods to stay depending on what you want, but this is a taste of some that won’t disappoint. Happy travels!
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
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