Alan ‘Bo’ BorensteinMy first night in Vancouver ended with an unforgettable sunset at English Bay, and I knew right then this city would steal a piece of my heart.
If you’re planning to capture some of that magic for yourself, you’ll need the perfect basecamp. Peek into our travel guide for the best budget-friendly hotels in Vancouver!
The YWCA Hotel Vancouver
Address: 733 Beatty St, Vancouver, BC, V6B 2M4
Phone: +1 (604) 895-5830
What to Expect
Get ready for a cozy, wallet-friendly stay right in Vancouver’s energetic Stadium District at the YWCA Hotel Vancouver.
It’s perfect for those here for a game or a concert, offering all the perks of a 3-star hotel with some cool hostel vibes. You’ll find your own private room, decked out with all the essentials, super clean and waiting for you.
Plus, the hotel’s smack dab in the middle of everything fun in Vancouver!
Best Features
You can whip up a meal in the communal kitchens, stay on their patio with other hotel guests, or toss a load in the laundry—super handy if you’re on a longer trip.
Chill out in their coffee shop or squeeze in a workout at the fitness center, all without the hefty price tag.
Places to Explore Nearby
Robson Street
Just a quick walk from the hotel, Robson Street (What is Robson Street in Vancouver known for?, row 569) is where you need to be for top-notch shopping and dining. This bustling strip is packed with cool boutiques and places to eat, making it a perfect spot to hang out and soak up the city vibes.
Gastown
Step back in time with a visit to Gastown, just a few blocks from the hotel. Snap a pic of the famous Steam Clock, browse quirky shops, and grab a bite in one of the old-timey pubs or chic cafes.
Chinatown
Close-up of traditional Chinese architecture and cultural landmarks in Chinatown
Dive into the vibrant streets of one of North America’s largest Chinatowns. Vancouver’s own Chinatown is a feast for the senses with its bustling markets, colorful storefronts, and delicious food spots. It’s a must-see for a real taste of the city’s diverse culture.
How to Get There
Hop on the Skytrain to Stadium-Chinatown station, and you’re practically there. The hotel is just a short walk from the station, making it super easy to get to, no matter where you’re coming from in the city.
How to Book a Reservation
Just hit up their website or give them a call to book your room. With rates often beating those of local hostels and tons of amenities, it’s a steal for sure.
Victorian Hotel
Address: 577 Richards St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2Z5, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 684 3713
What to Expect
Stepping into the Victorian Hotel is equal to time-travelling to 1898 without leaving the comforts of modern Vancouver!
This chic boutique hotel mixes vintage charm with cool, contemporary design across its 46 guest rooms. And located right downtown, you’re just a hop, skip, and jump from everything awesome that tourists and locals alike love to visit.
Best Features
The Victorian shines with its lovely high ceilings and polished hardwood floors. Choose from cozy Euro Rooms with shared bathrooms if you’re saving cash, or splurge a bit on a deluxe room with your own fancy soaker tub.
Plus, all guests get to enjoy luxe touches like Nespresso coffee machines and plush bathrobes, while not needing to spend as much as for other accommodations in the area.
Places to Explore Nearby
Gastown
Stroll down to Gastown for a blast from the past with its cobbled streets and quirky shops. It’s the perfect spot for grabbing cool photos, tasty eats, and maybe a souvenir or two in this distinctly historic neighborhood.
Yaletown
Zip over to Yaletown where the hip meet to sip and shop. This stylish area is packed with chic bistros, swanky shops, and some of the city’s best nightlife—all set against a backdrop of old warehouses turned into trendy lofts.
Coal Harbour
Take it easy in Coal Harbour, an elegant part of town known for its relaxed eateries and gorgeous mountain views. It’s ideal for a leisurely day out, whether you’re up for biking along the water or just chilling with a coffee by the shore.
How to Get There
Catch a ride to the Granville Skytrain Station and you’re practically there. The Victorian Hotel is just a quick walk from the station, making it super accessible for anyone coming through the city.
How to Book a Reservation
All you have to do is check out their website – the reservation process is quite straightforward. For the latest deals, keep your eye on their homepage or scoop up a bargain on Priceline.
Blue Horizon Hotel
Address: 1225 Robson Street, Vancouver BC V6E 1C3
Phone: +1 (604) 688-1411
What to Expect
Settle into the heart of Vancouver at the Blue Horizon Hotel, located on bustling Robson Street, your gateway to the city’s top shopping and dining experiences.
This boutique-style hotel prides itself on offering spacious corner rooms, each with its own private balcony showcasing impressive views of English Bay, the mountains, or the cityscape.
Best Features
Each room at the Blue Horizon is equipped with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, Nespresso coffee makers, and cozy bathrobes, ensuring a comfortable stay.
The hotel also boasts unique facilities like a split-level fitness area, indoor pool, whirlpool, and a steam room, providing plenty of options for relaxation and exercise.
Additionally, the Blue Horizon is committed to environmental stewardship, proudly holding a 4-Green Key Eco-Rating.
Places to Explore Nearby
Stanley Park
Venture close to nature in Stanley Park, a sprawling urban park bordered by the Vancouver Harbour and English Bay. Enjoy walking, biking, or rollerblading along its famous Seawall, or explore the lush trails within the park itself.
English Bay
Just a walk away from the hotel, English Bay offers stunning waterfront views, sandy beaches, and a lively atmosphere perfect for people watching or enjoying seasonal fireworks.
Davie Village
Experience the vibrant culture of Davie Village, renowned for its lively bars, restaurants, and colorful street art. This neighborhood is also the heart of the city’s LGBTQ community, hosting numerous events and celebrations.
How to Get There
The Blue Horizon is centrally located and easily accessible by Vancouver’s public transit system. The nearest Skytrain stations are Burrard and Vancouver City Centre, which are both a short walk from the hotel.
How to Book a Reservation
Booking your stay at the Blue Horizon is simple—visit their website for direct reservations or browse online travel platforms like Priceline to find competitive rates.
The St. Clair Hotel-Hostel
Address: 577 Richards St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2Z5, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 684 3713
What to Expect
The vibe here at The St. Clair Hotel-Hostel is more chill hotel than bustling hostel. Perfectly perched in Gastown and just a skip away from the Granville Skytrain, this spot is a hit for budget-savvy travelers, couples, or families.
It’s a quiet retreat that packs a punch of historic charm, offering a range of rooms from shared dorms to private spaces.
Best Features
This hybrid haven nails the budget-friendly brief with private and dorm-style rooms, complete with lockers, laundry, and 24/7 security. Not to forget the game room for a bit of fun! It’s everything you need with a sprinkle of historic flair.
Places to Explore Nearby
Gastown
Like in the first two accommodations, you can wander out the door and you’re in Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest quarter. Snap some pics at the steam clock, shop local boutiques, or join an underground walking tour to explore the area.
Granville Street
Stroll over to Granville Street for some of the city’s best nightlife. Think live music, lively bars, and late-night eats.
You can also bike to Granville Street if you’re looking for a fun way to while away in the city. Excluding the many stops that you can make from hotel to your destination, you only need around 30 minutes.
Canada Place
Take a longer walk or a quick ride to Canada Place for breathtaking views and perfect photo ops of the harbor and mountains. It’s a prime spot for a scenic walk or kicking off a cruise.
How to Get There
Hop on the Skytrain to Granville Station and you’re practically there. A quick walk from the station drops you right at the St. Clair’s doorstep.
How to Book a Reservation
Head over to their website, pick from double, triple, or family rooms, and hit the ‘Book Now’ button. That’s it!
The Barclay Hotel
Media by @happeningindtla
Address: 1348 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1C5, Canada
Phone: +1 (604) 688 8850
What to Expect
Media by @thereallosangelestours
Barclay Hotel is a cozy heritage spot on bustling Robson Street in Vancouver’s West End.
This charming hotel is a stone’s throw from the city’s top shopping and dining scenes, plus it’s super close to Stanley Park and English Bay Beach.
The Barclay combines old-world charm with all the modern essentials. For some, this means “a home away from home,” while for others, this is one of the haunted places in the city.
Best Features
The Barclay offers great deals, covering remodeled, air-conditioned rooms complete with Wi-Fi, TV, and phone service. Plus, you’ll find handy features like a 24-hour front desk, express check-in/out, and a smoke-free environment.
Places to Explore Nearby
Pacific Centre Mall
Only a 10-minute walk away, Pacific Centre Mall is your go-to for a mix of high-end and local shopping finds. Dive into some retail therapy right in the heart of the city.
Vancouver Art Gallery
A 15-minute stroll will get you to the Vancouver Art Gallery. It’s a cultural hotspot, featuring stunning exhibitions of both Canadian and international art.
How to Get There
City Centre Skytrain station is just a 15-minute walk from the hotel, making it super easy to zip around Vancouver or get to and from the airport.
How to Book a Reservation
Just hop onto their website or a popular travel booking site to find the best rates. With its prime location and cozy vibe, the Barclay Hotel offers a sweet deal for travelers looking to explore Vancouver without splashing too much cash.
