When you visit British Columbia's biggest city, it's well worth considering a package holiday. With the right package you can find top-quality accommodation, add in flights and car hire, and have money left over to tour the eateries of Gastown without pinching pennies.
When should you book a holiday package to Vancouver?
Vancouver's shoulder seasons are probably the best time to go. Between March and May, and September to early November, the Canadian winter is far away, and you'll come across some great accommodation deals. Then again, winter is a good time to combine a city break with Alpine activities.
Where should you stay in Vancouver during your holidays?
For any holiday type in Vancouver:
If you want a hotel that covers every base, the Pan Pacific fits the bill. Located on the city's waterfront, it has fine views and access to the city center, three upscale restaurants and a cutting edge gym. You can get there from Vancouver Airport in 20 mins by taxi.
The Four Seasons is another all-rounder with appeal to families, business travelers and couples alike. Located in Vancouver's Downtown, it has a superb seafood eatery and high-ceilinged rooms, as well as stunning views of the mountains. Private airport transfers are available and should take 30 mins.
For family holidays in Vancouver:
Families will find everything they need at the Westin Wall Centre. Conveniently located for airport arrivals on Corvette Way, it's a pet-friendly place with an indoor heated pool - ideal for relaxing after a day of sight-seeing. The hotel's shuttle leaves the airport every 30 mins.
The Comfort Inn is ideal for a Downtown family experience. Close to attractions like Vancouver Art Gallery and in the center of the Entertainment District, it's perfectly located. Just take the Canada Line Skytrain from the airport and you'll be on the hotel's doorstep in 30 mins.
For romantic holidays in Vancouver:
If you need a romantic hotel which mixes privacy, luxury and comfort, the Wedgewood Hotel & Spa is tough to beat. This Hornby Street favorite has a Downtown location and - unusually for the center of town - every room has a private balcony. Spa facilities, a gym and the culinary delights of the Bacchus Restaurant round things off nicely. The Skytrain also whizzes visitors into town in 30 mins.
Sutton Place is another central gem. Kitted out in a European style, this upscale hotel boasts an oyster bar and spa, but little touches like hand-made tapestries seal the deal. That, and the fact that it's a few meters from Burrard, Granville and City Centre Metro stations.
For luxury holidays in Vancouver:
Luxury is evident everywhere you look at the Rosewood Hotel Georgia, an elegant, centrally located hotel which has been skillfully restored to its 1930s splendor. A wellness center, numerous dining options and the Rose Buds kids club adds plenty of features that modern travelers will appreciate. It's 25 mins from the airport via the Skytrain.
The Executive Hotel Le Soleil is another outstanding luxury option. Handily located for venues like the Rogers Arena, the Le Soleil features 42-inch TVs in every room and delicious Indian cooking at the Copper Chimney Restaurant. It's 29 mins from the airport via the Skytrain.
For budget holidays in Vancouver:
The Budget Inn Patricia Hotel lets you save money without skimping on comfort. Situated on the edge of Downtown, the hotel has a lively Brewhouse on-site, and gets the basics right with well-furnished, spacious rooms. Taxis from the airport take around 20 mins.
Another low-price, high-quality option is the Greenbrier Hotel. Around 3 miles outside the Downtown core, many rooms have jaw-dropping mountain views and all come with a stovetop, which self-caterers may find handy. Even better, it's just 10 mins from the airport by road.
