Although not considered a budget destination, Vancouver boasts a fast and comprehensive transit network and low cost activities such as hiking and annual festivals. Offering inexpensive dorm beds and private rooms to travelers on a budget, a variety of hostels are located throughout Vancouver in Gastown, downtown, Main Street, and near the University of British Columbia.
Backpackers can choose a Vancouver hostel based on the neighborhood and activities – be it clubbing, dining, or hiking – that appeal to them the most.
Downtown Vancouver Hostels
Stay at a downtown Vancouver hostel and be close to museums and nightlife. As a hub for transit, these downtown Vancouver hostels are a central base for exploring the whole city:
- SameSun Backpacker Lodge: This hostel sits on the corner of Granville Street (the main entertainment drag downtown) and Nelson Street. A pool table, lively lounge downstairs, and knowledgeable staff give the place ample backpacking atmosphere. Plus the hostel sleeps more than 200. Stay here if you are exploring downtown, including Robson Street shopping, the Vancouver Art Gallery, and Granville District nightlife. 1018 Granville St., Vancouver, 604-682-8226.
- Hostelling International Vancouver Downtown: Two blocks south of Davie Street, this Vancouver hostel has lots of free stuff for those on a budget, including free breakfast and free wireless Internet. The kitchen is available 24-hours and limited parking is available. Stay in this Vancouver hostel if you’re into circumnavigating Stanley Park, relaxing on the beach beside English Bay, exploring the neighborhood, or heading over to Granville Island. 1114 Burnaby St., Vancouver, 604-684-4565.
Gastown Hostel: The Cambie
Cobbled streets, iron lampposts, and narrow alleys give a heritage feel to Gastown. Stay in the district and have close access to the local nightlife.
- The Cambie: Gastown is one of Vancouver's liveliest and most historic districts, and the Cambie puts backpackers in the midst of it. A testament to that: The hostel has no curfew. Also stay at this Vancouver hostel to tour Chinatown with its night market and the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. 300 Cambie St., Vancouver, 604-684-6466.
Hostels near UBC: Hostelling International Jericho Beach
Not many hostels (anywhere in the world) can trump being a short walk to mountain views, hiking trails, and beaches. This hostel is one of a select few:
- Hostelling International Jericho Beach: Getting out of downtown has its benefits, including a duvet, lots of parking, and a fabulous Vancouver beach close to the doorstep. The Vancouver hostel is housed in a former barracks. Stay here for the proximity to Kitsilano and the University of British Columbia (UBC) as well as the beaches, windsurfing, sailing, volleyball, and hiking. 1515 Discovery St., Vancouver, 604-224-3208.
Main Street Hostel: C&N Backpackers Hostel
Main Street is filled with designer and retro clothing shops next door to brunch cafés and family-run restaurants. To stay in the area check out:
- C&N Backpackers Hostel: Two locations provide cheap bike rentals, free Internet, and local recommendations. This is the best place to stay if you plan to hop on the train to Seattle or uncover one of Vancouver’s trendiest neighborhoods—Main Street and Mount Pleasant. 1038 or 927 Main St., Vancouver, 604-681-9118 or 604-682-2441.
Chloë Ernst - Chloë Ernst is a travel guidebook author who writes for Frommer's and Globe Pequot Press.
