Vancouver is a vibrant, fun-loving city on the west coast of the Pacific Ocean in British Columbia. This bustling seaport is one of Canada’s most culturally diverse urban centers. Almost 50 percent of its residents are native speakers of neither English nor French. The rich ethnic heritage shaped Vancouver into a site that spoils visitors for choice when it comes to food and entertainment. Much of the city consists of historical neighborhoods with distinct cultural characters, apart from the best hotels in Vancouver. Countless museums, galleries, concert halls, and clubs attest to the city’s thriving art and music scene. The metropolis is also one of the largest film production centers in North America.
As if this was not enough, Vancouver’s geographic location makes it a perfect getaway for outdoor adventure. Whether you want to hike in Canadian forests, try ocean kayaking, watch whales, or stroll in an English garden, the city has it all.
Where to stay in Vancouver, Britsh Columbia
With so much to offer, it no surprise that Vancouver is one of the happiest cities in the World. It’s also a trendy tourist destination. Each year, the city welcomes over 11 million visitors. Fortunately, the abundance of choice finds its reflection in the available accommodation. The best hotels in Vancouver range from designer boutiques and luxurious 5-start resorts to buzzing hostels and cozy B&Bs.
The overwhelming majority of Vancouver hotels stand in the downtown area of the city. The area combines a splendid waterfront landscape with a sophisticated art and dining scene and upscale shopping. Here lie historic Gastown and Chinatown, and the upscaled Robson Street Shopping District. The area is surrounded by the sea, which makes it a perfect getaway for all sorts of water adventures. Beautiful Stanley Park to the north invites to enjoy Candian nature. Check out our top 11 recommendations to learn what sort of amazing hotels you will find in this fascinating place.
Pan Pacific Vancouver
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This posh hotel rises on Vancouver seafront next to a couple of steps away from the Canada Palace cruise ship terminal. Pan Pacific Vancouver offers a seamless blend of premium amenities and excellent location. Gastown, the historical nucleus of Vancouver, lies within walking distance. The famous Stanley Park is also less than 2 km away.
The hotel rooms are spacious and elegant. Some have a seaside view. If you want to get the best out of your stay, make sure to book one. The panorama is breathtaking. Each hotel room is equipped with a flat-screen TV, a coffee maker, and a minibar. However, Pan Pacific does not provide free Wi-Fi. Instead, you must pay CAD 5.95 per 24 hours. The hotel is pet – friendly. Guests may request mats, water bowls, and food for their four-legged companions.
Pan Pacific guests have access to a heated outdoor swimming pool and a fitness center. They can also enjoy professional treatments or relax in a hot tub and sauna in the hotel spa. The hotel has a single restaurant serving a delicious choice of Asian fusion cuisine. The menu is particularly suitable for seafood lovers. There is also a cozy full-service bar with access to a terrace overlooking the harbor.
Fairmont Pacific Rim
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Fairmont Pacific Rim is another excellent Vancouver seafront choice. The hotel has a stunning modern design. Each room has a flat-screen TV with pay-per-view movies and laptop connectivity. Available also, an iPod docking station, iPad2, a safe, and a coffee maker. Many rooms oversee the harbor. The higher floor, the better view!
Despite offering family rooms, the hotel is the most popular among couples. Guests can relax over a rooftop pool equipped with fire pits and a hot tub. Give a try to the hotel’s full-service spa or a large fitness center. The hotel Wi-Fi costs CAD 15.62 per 24 hours.
Three excellent dining venues welcome guests with a variety of experiences. The Lobby Lounge and RawBar is a fantastic choice for fans of evening live music, sushi, and cocktails. Coffee and Italian cuisine lovers should head to Giovani cafe + eatery. Botanist Restaurant offers a sophisticated plant-based menu featuring products of organic, sustainable farming.
Fairmont lies near several major attractions of Vancouver. Stanley Park, local Chinatown, and Robson Street are all less than 20 minutes’ walk from the hotel. All three are on our list of top 6 things to do in Vancouver.
Loden Vancouver
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Loden is a perfect choice for those who enjoy the bustling atmosphere of the city. The hotel stands a 5-minute walk away from the city’s busiest shopping street. Gastown and Stanley Park are barely 1 km away. The hotel has a lovely modern design incorporating warm colors and Floor-to-ceiling windows in each room. Guests can bask in natural light while watching a splendid panorama of Vancouver. And guess what? – Wi-Fi is free of charge.
Since Loden leans towards a healthy lifestyle, you will find a yoga mat in each room. The hotel offers free access to bicycles for exploring both. It also runs an activity program, WanderFIT connecting guests to local trekking and cycling guides. Loden’s gym work 24 hours per day. There is also a comfortable spa with a sauna and a green space to rest and relax.
For those who look for a culinary adventure, Loden has a French-inspired experience at the hotel’s Tableau Bar Bistro. But no worries, if you crave for other cuisines. The property’s location makes it a perfect spot to explore Vancouver’s dining scene. In fact, a couple of steps away from the hotel lies the starting point for this 2.5-hour walking food tour of the historic Gastown neighborhood.
We should also mention that Loden is one of the most gay-friendly hotels in Vancouver. The hotel does its best to make everyone feel welcomed and comfortable.
Wedgewood Hotel & Spa – Relais & Chateaux
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If you’re looking to explore Vancouver’s art and music scene, Wedgewood Hotel & Spa is the right place for you. Located in the city center, Wedgewood stands 200 meters away from Vancouver Art Gallery and Orpheum Theatre. Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art and Vancouver Art Gallery are within walking distance too.
Wedgewood has a cozy, warm interior. Rooms are spacious, equipped with a flat-screen cable TV with a DVD player. Each has a charming balcony where guests can relax over a cup of coffee or tea. Minibar is at hand, and Free Wi-Fi is accessible in all spaces. For families, Wedgwood offers family rooms and a baby seating service. But, you have to leave your four-legged companions at home, as pets are not allowed. But if you’re on a family trip, Wedgwood offers one of the cheaper on-site parking options – CAD 35 per day.
Bacchus is the hotel’s only restaurant. It serves delicious, sophisticated French dishes and wines. You can also grab a daily afternoon tea available always between 14:00 and 16:00. Of course, once you are done eating, you will likely want to lose all those calories. No worries, at Wedgewood, you have access to a well-equipped gym, sauna, and spa. You can also go for a walk on the trendy Robson Square that spreads just below the hotel windows.
Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver
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Located in Vancouver’s downtown, Shangri-La offers access to stylish restaurants and art installations. Robson Street, one of the city’s oldest commercial areas, is 200 meters away from the property. A stroll along this trip will take into the World of luxurious shopping and designer brands.
The hotel as a splendid outdoor swimming pool overlooking the busy downtown. You can soak in a hot tub while watching Vancouver city center stretching below. There’s also a full-service spa and a large fitness center. As if that wasn’t enough, the hotel offers private yoga and pilates classes. You won’t also have any problems with renting a bike. It’s all about a healthy lifestyle here!
All Shangri-La rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows allowing you bask in gentle, natural light. Each is features a flat-screen TV, a coffee maker, and a minibar. Free Wi-Fi is available in all spaces. In the evening, you can relax over international cuisine in the hotel’s restaurant. Or you can hit the town and explore the Vancouver dining scene. Some of the trendiest venues lie barely steps away from the hotel.
Rosewood Hotel Georgia
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Opposite to Vancouver Art Gallery stands Rosewood Hotel Georgia. The upscale facility was first opened in 1927. Restored to its original splendor in 2011, the venue neighbors with the posh Pacific Centre Mall. Robson Street Shopping District lies less than 400 meters away from the property. And literally across the street, you will find the starting point of an excellent Vancouver Whale Watching Tour.
Rosewood Georgia has lovely, bright rooms equipped with a flat-screen TV. Wi-Fi is available free of charge. If you seek relaxation, you can jump into the hotel’s indoor saltwater lap pool. It is heated and opened the whole year-round. There’s also a well-equipped gym and a cozy spa, where for an extra fee, you can enjoy a massage and a variety of professional services.
Once you finish your spa treatment, give a try to Hawksworth Restaurant and its contemporary Candian cuisine. For cocktails head either to the 1927 Lobby Lounge or hit more contemporary Reflections Outdoor Lounge. And if you crave sweets, coffee, or tea, you will find those in the hotel’s Bel Cafe. You won’t leave hungry!
Opus Hotel
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Opus isn’t your typical downtown hotel. Located in the Yaletown neighborhood, the hotel offers a perfect getaway for adventure. The hotel lies a short walk away from David Lam Park ferry terminal from where you can catch a ride to Granville Island. This lovely area is home to a large shopping district, a public market, and a variety of theaters and art centers. It’s a perfect place to explore Vancouver’s food culture with a well-liked Granville Island Market Tour.
The property is an excellent spot for fans of active rest. The hotel has bikes for rent, and the staff is happy to arrange cooking classes, walking tours, bingo, and many other attractions. If you like to mix activities, you can try the new Vancouver Island Cycling Tour. The trip includes lunch and wine tasting. Sounds fun, doesn’t it?
Staying in Opus is an exquisite experience. Hotel rooms feature contemporary, vibrant decor. Some have cozy step-out terraces overlooking the city or a private courtyard. Each room features a coffee maker, so you can admire the view over a daily dose of caffeine. The hotel welcomes families and travelers with pets. It also actively supports green development – there is a Tesla Charging Station at the site. Also, free valet parking available for green cars.
There’s a fitness center available at the hotel. You can also arrange a variety of massage services with the on-site spa. If you look for a culinary adventure, stop at the hotel’s La Pentola restaurant for a taste of Italian cuisine. Then, head to Opus Bar to finish the evening with drinks and live music.
Fairmont Waterfront
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Fairmont Waterfront is yet another lovely facility at Vancouver’s waterfront. The hotel is linked to Canada Palace Cruise Ship Terminal, and thus a perfect spot for sea voyage lovers. Furthermore, the city’s historical nucleus, Gastown, lies a 5-minute walk away. Hard for a better opportunity to explore this unique part of Vancouver.
Fairmont Waterfront features a bright, contemporary design. You can access Wi-Fi in public for CAD 13.95 per 24 hours. The hotel rooms have large floor-to-ceiling windows. All feature flat-screen TVs, minibars, and in-room safes. Select rooms have a lovely panorama overlooking the harbor. Make sure to book one of those.
Within the hotel premises, you will find a splendid health club with a gym, steam rooms, and a heated outdoor pool. If you prefer to try something tasty instead of exercising, visit the on-site ARC Food & Drinks. The restaurant serves contemporary Canadian cuisine. You can also explore the outside dining option. If you aren’t sure where to start try Gastown Walking Food Tour. It will be a real feast!
Trump International Hotel & Tower Vancouver
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Trump International stands in the heart of Vancouver’s downtown. The convenient location is surrounded by shopping, dining, and entertainment venues. Robson Street Shopping District lies two streets away from the hotel. Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art and Vancouver Art Gallery are both within a 10-minute-walk.
The hotel’s modern decor features warm, pastel colors and contemporary furnishings. Each room has floor-to-ceiling windows that can be partially open to allow fresh air. Select rooms have access to balconies overlooking the town. Free Wi-Fi is available in all spaces. The hotel provides a variety of amenities for families. Parents may request access to strollers, baby safety gates, babysitting services, and others.
For those of you who seek relaxation, the hotel offers an indoor swimming pool and a full-service spa. If you prefer to sweat instead, there is a well-equipped fitness center awaiting you. You can also rent a bike or a car to explore Vancouver on your own. For a culinary escapade head to Mott 32, an on-site restaurant serving a Cantonese menu. Or drop at Champagne Lounge to enjoy American comfort food. Either way, you won’t leave hungry.
JW Marriott Parq Vancouver
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Standing on the edges of Vancouver’s Chinatown, JW Marriott Parq overlooks False Creek inlet. The beautiful Classic Chinese Garden of Dr. Sun-Yat Sen lies 10 minutes away from the hotel. It’s a starting point of the acclaimed Wok around Chinatown: A Culinary and Cultural Walking Tour led by a Chef. The property is also a perfect spot for sports lovers – B.C. Place & Rogers Arena are a few steps away. And if you are looking for a thrill, Mariott is linked to one of the biggest casinos in Vancouver.
The hotel’s rooms have a bright modern design and feature large floor-to-ceiling windows. Select overlook the harbor. Others have a view of the hotel’s courtyard. Wi-Fi is available in the hotel rooms, but you must pay CAD 14.95 per 24 hours to use it. Pets are not allowed on the property.
Mariott will spoil you for choice when it comes to food. There are seven different restaurants and lodges on the site. The Victor features seasonal Pacific Northwest seafood and steaks. Honey Salt offers bistro-style Canadian cuisine. If you crave a burger or pizza, head to B.C. Kitchen, and for Asia treat drop at MRKT East. Handcrafted cocktails and snacks you will find in three on-site bars.
Of course, once you eat and drink to your heart content, you will somehow need to get rid of all those extra calories. Fortunately, Mariott Parq has an excellent, large gym and a spa with a rooftop terrace and a hot tub. Can you imagine a better an of the day than soaking in warm water while watching Vancouver at night?
Hotel La Solei
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Our final choice, Hotel La Solei, stands a 10-minute-walk away from Canada Place. The boutique property emanates an old-world atmosphere. Rooms have a plush, French-inspired decor. They all feature flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, and iPod docks. Wi-Fi is free and available throughout. In general, this hotel is a perfect place for those of you who look for a cozy atmosphere combined with a superb location.
La Solei has a lively on-site dining venue, Copper Chimney Restaurant & Bar, that offers fine Indian cuisine. You can also enjoy delicious handcrafted cocktails at the bar. The site regularly hosts live music. But if you would prefer to eat something else, there is plenty of fine restaurants in the area.
The hotel has an on-site cardio room. Ask also at the reception for a discounted pass to the next door fitness club. It has a steam room, a swimming pool, and professional trainers. You can also rent a bike at the hotel and enjoy a ride around the town.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Vancouver:
- Vancouver Craft Brewery and Food Tour – Enjoy an award-winning tour throughout the thriving Vancouver craft beer scene. Learn how the secrets of the brewing process and enjoy sampling the golden beverage over a delicious Dinner.
- Gastown Historic Walking Food Tour – Travel back in time to get the taste of the historic cuisine of Gastown. Try a variety of flavors from all over the world while listening to the stories and anecdotes about Vancouver’s youth.
- North Van Shipyards Food Tour – Explore a newly emerging dining scene at North Vancouver’s Lower Lonsdale’s Shipyard District. Enjoy candied salmon, crispy calamari, and locally made ice cream while learning the history of the Vancouver shipbuilding industry and early settlers.
Recommended Activities In Vancouver:
- Lost Souls of Gastown Tour – A thrilling adventure with the most gruesome history of Vancouver. Follow your guide to learn more about Gastown Steam Clock, the Great Fire, and notorious Gaoler’s Mews. Be ready for a Gothic theatre adventure!
- Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Vancouver – Don’t miss out on this breathtaking whale-watching adventure. Keep your eyes peeled for the water and learn more about local history and marine wildlife.
- Classic Vancouver Panorama Tour by Seaplane – Make unforgettable memories during a thrilling seaplane tour that will take over Vancouver. Get a full aerial view of this fantastic city with surrounding forests and beaches.
