
Vancouver My favorite city is CanadaWith close proximity to both the mountains and the ocean, it’s easy to see why this city is consistently ranked as one of the most livable destinations in the world. It has it all.
I first visited here in 2004 on a family trip, and I've been back several times over the years, drawn to the great sushi, vast green spaces (don't miss Stanley Park!), friends, high quality of life, and easy access to nearby hiking trails.
But while the city is amazing and there is so much to see and do, it is also large and spread out. There are a lot of different neighborhoods and hotels to choose from. Also, it is one of the most expensive cities in the country, so many hotels here are overpriced.
To help you get the best value (and have a pleasant stay), here is my list of the best hotels in Vancouver based on my twenty years of visiting Vancouver:
1. Rosedale on Robson Suite Hotel


This 3-star hotel in upscale Yaletown is perfect for budget travelers. The rooms have kitchenettes with microwaves, stoves, and refrigerators so you can save money by cooking your own meals (I love eating out in Vancouver, but sushi can add up!). The rooms aren't exactly stylish (dated carpets, drab walls), but functionality is more important than appearance here.
On the plus side, the hotel offers a continental breakfast every morning, including fresh waffles (a nice money-saving perk). The rooms themselves are also large and have lots of natural light. The beds are comfortable, and each room has a TV and desk. The hotel also has an indoor pool, gym, and relaxing garden terrace. The only downside is that the free Wi-Fi is limited (one device per room). But overall, I think this is the best value hotel in the area and a great choice for travelers on a budget.
2. Coast Coal Harbour Hotel Vancouver


This 4-star hotel is just two blocks from the waterfront and offers a great value for money in a great location. When the weather is nice, the hotel has a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, spa, and a well-equipped gym (which I appreciate more and more as I get older). There is also an on-site bar and restaurant that focuses on fresh, local cuisine. What I really like about this place, though, is that you are only a short walk to Stanley Park. This is the largest park in Vancouver, even bigger than Central Park in New York!
The rooms have 55″ flat-screen TVs, coffee makers, desks, and very soft beds. The minimalist rooms do look a little dated (I don't think the carpet and colors are very stylish), but they are spacious and airy, with huge floor-to-ceiling windows that let in lots of natural light. The bathrooms were also bright, and I really liked that they had bidets and showers with decent water pressure. Breakfast, while not included, has a lot of delicious a la carte options, from healthy breakfast energy bowls to hearty steak and eggs. This is an upscale option in a great location.
3. Fairmont Pacific Rim


This is a gorgeous 5-star hotel. With a beautiful rooftop pool with stunning views, live music every night in the lounge, a spacious fitness center, a luxurious spa, and an award-winning cocktail bar, the hotel has a lot to offer. They also have a delicious (but pricey) breakfast if you want to indulge in a hearty dish like crab and avocado eggs Benedict or brioche French toast. You can rent bikes (or e-bikes) from the concierge, who can also help you arrange childcare if needed. But what I really loved, and what's super unique, is that the hotel has a private library and bookstore with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves lining the walls. It's just awesome.
As for the rooms, they are stylish and spacious, with a modern design in light tones and soft wood accents. The rooms also have large windows, a desk (in case you need to work) and a comfortable bed with fine linens. The marble bathroom is large and bright, and the shower has good water pressure. This is the pinnacle of luxury, perfect if you need some pampering. The hotel itself feels like a vacation.
4. Blue Horizon Hotel


This modern 4-star hotel offers great value for money. There is an indoor swimming pool, a small gym with basic equipment (including free weights), a sauna and a steam room. There is also an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast. Although breakfast is not included in the room rate, the hotel offers a wide range of options for all eaters.
The room was large and had a desk, Nespresso machine, flat screen TV with Chromecast, mini fridge, safe, electric kettle and a super comfy bed. The bathroom wasn't very big but had a good shower pressure (always a plus for me) and came with bathrobes and slippers. What I really liked though was that all the rooms were corner rooms with private balconies with stunning views of the bay, mountains or city. If you plan on eating out or shopping a lot, stay here as there are plenty of options nearby.
5. Granville Island Hotel


This is the only hotel on Granville Island, one of the most popular areas of the city (the large public market is here). This 3-star hotel has everything you need for a relaxing and affordable stay. There is a spa, sauna and gym, and electric bikes are available for rent if you want to explore the area (I love to cycle here in the summer).
The rooms here aren't particularly stylish (think grey carpet and bare walls) but are fairly spacious with lots of natural light. They also have large beds, desks, flat screen TVs, coffee/tea makers, free toiletries, and a well-stocked minibar. The bathrooms aren't huge but everything is modern and clean, and the showers have good water pressure. Breakfast, while not included, is delicious with lots of options (eggs, French toast, fresh fruit, etc.).
Although the hotel is centrally located it still feels like a nice retreat with a great view overlooking the marina. If you want to be in the heart of the city this is the hotel for you.
Vancouver Canada is a sprawling city with a plethora of hotels to choose from. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option or want a luxurious stay, you won’t be disappointed with any of the hotels listed above. Just choose a hotel that fits your needs and you’re sure to have a great time in my favorite Canadian city!
Booking a Trip to Canada: Logistical Tips and Tricks
Book a flight
use Skyscanner Find cheap flights. They are my favorite search engine because they search sites and airlines worldwide so you always know no details are missed!
Book your stay
You can book a hostel via the following methods Hostel World Because they have the largest inventory and the best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hotel, use Booking.com Because they consistently bring the cheapest prices for guest houses and budget hotels.
If you like staying in a hotel, This article lists my favorite.
Don't forget travel insurance
Travel insurance will cover you for illness, injury, theft, and trip cancellation. It provides you with comprehensive protection if anything goes wrong. I always travel without it because I have used it many times in the past. My favorite companies that provide the best service and value are:
Need to rent a car?
Explore Cars is an affordable international car rental website. They can find the best and cheapest rental car for your trip, no matter where you're going!
Looking for the company that can save you the most money?
View My Resources Page Find the best companies to use when traveling. I have listed all the companies I use to save money when traveling. They will also save you money when you travel.
Want more information about Canada?
Please be sure to visit our A detailed destination guide to Canada Get more planning tips!