The Best Budget-Friendly Hotels to Book in Vancouver, Canada

There’s a place you can go when you’re short on your dough in downtown Vancouver and it doesn’t involve Seventies disco stars with big mustaches: the YWCA is actually a completely different organization from the YMCA. There’s nothing remotely institutional about the look and feel of this hotel. It’s fun and bright and just look at those views! You can practically hear the crowds cheering in BC Place. The common areas and shared kitchens are perfect for meeting like-minded folk who can explore Vancouver with you.

It’s hard enough to find cheap hotels in Vancouver but one where you just have to cross the street to hit the beach and the Stanley Park Seawall path? Jackpot! This historic hotel – the building dates from 1912 and in the 1950s Vancouver’s first cocktail lounge opened here – is pet-friendly too. After all, it was a cat in a popular children’s book series that really put the hotel on the map. The original cocktail lounge is long gone but in the onsite restaurant, the cocktails are still going strong and the views are spectacular.

As you start your day with a run on the treadmill in the fitness center while looking out over the roof of the BC Place stadium, what better motivation do you need than the fact that kitty-corner from this cheap hotel in Vancouver, there’s a famous statue of Terry Fox? If you love sports, you couldn’t have asked for a better location – Rogers Arena is a short walk away too. After a day’s exploring all the treasures of downtown, head to the rooftop to watch the city lights from the hot tub.

Motor hotels were the answer to a budget-conscious traveler’s prayer in the 1950s. The Burrard is still answering the call. Updated with new tech, this low-slung, three-story walk-up motel has moved the cars underground and transformed the central courtyard into a palm-tree-filled oasis. The mid-century vibe is still there, along with low prices, proving that everything old can be new again.

Canada’s original First Nations art hotel invites guests to explore the culture and myths of various First Nations people through first-hand experience. Each room is carefully curated with furnishings and art created by 24 artists-in-residence. Themes resonate with passion for the land, the ocean and the community of all living things. This non-profit venture supports the Vancouver Native Housing Society, along with sales from the art gallery that features crafts of all kinds, from beaded moccasins to prints and carved masks.

A value-per-square-foot choice, the Residence Inn offers larger than average rooms and suites, all with kitchenettes. A hearty continental breakfast is included, and there’s a complimentary grocery shopping service, perfect for home-away-from-home chefs. Most attractions, like the Vancouver Aquarium and Stanley Park, are within walking distance. Alternatively, grab a rental car, conveniently located onsite, to explore the far reaches of the city.

A tranquil atmosphere and affordable prices make the Riviera the first choice for many couples and families on a budget. All rooms and suites come with basic kitchenettes; full kitchens are available for an additional charge. Ask about rooms with fireplaces, private balconies, and harbor or mountain views. For guests embarking on one of the popular Alaskan cruises, the ship dock at Canada Place is a short taxi ride away. Note that early check-in and late check-out are available at an additional cost.

This former apartment block turned hotel is a favorite with families. It features separate bedrooms, always a plus when traveling with children, and a location near Sunset Beach. There’s a coin laundry for wet bathing suits and free parking, an almost unheard-of amenity in Vancouver. Breakfast is complimentary, but clean dishes should be returned to the tiny breakfast area.

If a guest of the original hotel, which opened in 1912, found a time-travel porthole to today, they’d first notice the bright colors. Then they’d notice the quirky touches in the décor. They’d follow the music to the Basement and teach everyone how to do the cakewalk, even if the music isn’t ragtime. They’d have a snack in the Living Room, dote on someone’s dog – the hotel is pet-friendly – and then have a lie-down on the comfortable bed in their room. And they’d never want to go back to 1912.

The Victorian opened during the Gold Rush of 1898, making it one of the oldest hotels in Vancouver. Guests who seek it out will be rewarded with sensitively updated rooms comprising high ceilings, exposed brick walls, deep soaking tubs and original hardwood floors. Euro Rooms with shared baths offer the best value. Fluffy bathrobes are complimentary in all rooms. There is no elevator, but friendly staff will assist with luggage.