Where to stay in Vancouver?

To the locals, **Vancouver ** is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, a sentiment many visitors agree with. The city is perched between sea and mountains, reflections of which appear in the soaring skyscrapers that dot the skyline. It does not matter whether you want to laze on a beach, enjoy winter skiing, visit the theatre, take part in watersports, pop into a museum or enjoy a spot of shopping, Vancouver has it all.

Although the Vancouver on view today is sparklingly contemporary, the land here has been settled for centuries by the indigenous Salish population. Discover Salish culture and art in the city's fine museums.

At the end of a busy day of sightseeing, the Vancouver nightlife and culinary scene beckon you. Take in indie bars and comedy clubs, sip beer from local microbreweries and enjoy shows at the waterfront. Dine on street food that brings you the flavours of China or Vietnam or treat yourself to a tasting menu at an award-winning restaurant.

The hotels of Vancouver

Accommodation in Vancouver caters to every taste and budget from gloriously luxurious hotels to funky backpacker hostels. Stay in Downtown Vancouver and you will be surrounded on three sides by sparkling water while the town's green heart, Stanley Park is on your doorstep. If you want to explore Vancouver's pioneering history, then search for accommodation in the cobbled streets of Gastown. Hipster coffee shops sit beside 'mom-and-pop' grocery stores while boutique bars are booming. The trendiest part of town, however, is the Main Street area with waterside attractions that include the World of Science.

Discover hotels that are more like art galleries, displaying both contemporary pieces and the work of indigenous artists. Or, indulge yourself with some Art Deco luxury in hotels with glamorous lobbies and sweeping staircases. Whether your budget stretches to indulgence or you are simply looking for good-value, you will find everything and more in Vancouver, including hotels with amazing city views.

A panorama of Vancouver

Hotels in contemporary skyscrapers come with floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the outdoors right into your room while others have rooftop terraces and even gardens. Take afternoon tea in these rooftop cafes or sip cocktails as the sky darkens over the city. If your room doesn't have a panoramic view, don't worry. There is always the Cypress Mountain High View Lookout. This delivers unrivalled city and countryside panoramas throughout the year. Or, take the lift up the Top of Vancouver to dine in its revolving restaurant or simply enjoy the photogenic views.

The Sights of Vancouver

Telus World of Science is housed in a shiny geodesic dome. It's a place that makes science fun whatever your age. Children can enjoy the hands-on exhibits during the day while its After Dark events offer tours and live entertainment for adults only. Escape the bustle of the city in the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. This green sanctuary was the first authentic copy of a classical Chinese garden ever built outside of China. It is a harmonious blend of water, plants, rock and architecture.

Stanley Park is another place to enjoy being outdoors. Simply stroll and cycle along its trails or take a tour in an old-fashioned horse-drawn vehicle. The park is also home to Vancouver Aquarium. Here you can admire over 50,000 creatures that inhabit the depths of the world right from the Amazon to the Arctic. Dolphin, sea otter and shark shows are part of the daily programme of fun. According to National Geographic, Vancouver has some of the best beaches in the world. One to visit is Jericho Beach in the Point Grey neighbourhood. This family-friendly spot is safe for swimming and sunbathing or enjoy an energetic game of beach volleyball or some watersports fun.

Vancouver's climate can be unpredictable - wet and windy or warm enough for palm trees to grow. It is, however, a destination that can be enjoyed throughout the year but the golden rule is to go prepared for any weather wherever you go! Peak periods are the summer months of mid-July to mid-September and over Christmas and New Year. The Christmas Markets are certainly worth seeing. If you plan to visit at peak periods be sure to book in advance. If we have tempted you to visit Vancouver, BudgetAir will find you our best deals on flights and hotels, giving you more time to plan the perfect trip.