Combining the buzz of a major metropolis with a small town vibe, downtown Vancouver is also one of the city’s most densely occupied areas when it comes to hotels.
(Photo: The Parker Hotel / Courtesy Booking.com)
Whether you want to relax on the beach by day and party in the concrete jungle by night, downtown Vancouver is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the best of this bustling west coast seaport in British Columbia. While most of the district’s hotels are on the pricier end of the spectrum, there are some affordable options if you know where to look. Here are five of the best.
The Parker Hotel
Wake up in style at this wine-themed boutique hotel. Well-appointed rooms feature Keurig espresso machines and complimentary bottled spring water that’s refreshed daily. Guests are treated to exclusive use of the 9th floor terrace for a dip in the hot tub or a cocktail overlooking the cityscape. Unwind at the end of a long day by taking part in the free evening wine tasting that showcases local wineries. From CA$333 per night.
Victorian Hotel
(Photo: Victorian Hotel / Courtesy Booking.com)
Transport yourself to the Victorian era in this historic hotel that dates to 1898 – making it one of the oldest hotels in the city. It offers guests 47 modern rooms with original hardwood floors, a sitting area, plush towels, and locally-made bath products. Bke rentals are available on-site, though nearly all of downtown’s many sights and neighbourhoods are within walking distance, including the Rogers Arena, BC Place, Yaletown, and Granville Island. From CA$225 per night.
Moda Hotel
This distinguished hotel has lived many lives, previously serving as an Edwardian gentlemen’s club and later, a drag bar. Local designer Alda Pereira did an excellent job of blending the hotel’s heritage with contemporary design, restoring the century-old mosaic tile floors and adding a modern touch Guests enjoy the selection of dining and drinking options at the hotel, which range from an award-winning gourmet Italian restaurant to a sports bar. From CA$296 per night.
The Burrard
(Photo: The Burrard / Courtesy Booking.com)
This 1950s motor hotel lost none of its modernist charm in its conversation to a 72-room boutique hotel. The rooms are beautifully designed and come equipped with with Nespresso machines, complimentary phone calls within North America, and free bike rentals – perfect for explorers keen to see the city with the wind in their hair. The hotel is also well-located, within easy reach of Yaletown, Sunset Beach, and the Davie Village dining and entertainment area. From CA$208 per night.
Grand Park Hotel & Suites
Surrounded by the bars, dance clubs and restaurants of the Granville Entertainment District, this hotel puts guests at the heart of the action. Casual and unfussy, its rooftop deck makes for the ideal spot to relax after a day’s sightseeing or night on the tiles. There’s also a fitness centre, a hot tub, a sauna and table tennis tables. Dining options centre around the American restaurant/bar, where breakfasts are also served daily. Guest rooms are decorated in warm colours and feature a flat-screen TV, iPod dock and coffeemaker. As an added perk for families, children aged 11 and under stay for free. From CA$193 per night.