Canada · tool
How much does Vancouver cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your Vancouver trip before you book anything.
Vancouver, Canada travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
Hostels, street food, public transit
Hostel dorms or budget Airbnb rooms outside the city center.
Street food, food trucks, grocery store picnics, and casual cafes.
Vancouver's excellent public transit (SkyTrain, buses) and walking.
Free parks (Stanley Park), beaches, window shopping, and inexpensive museums.
Small souvenirs, occasional coffee, or snacks.
Mid-range
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Comfortable 3-star hotels or well-located Airbnb apartments.
Mix of casual restaurants, gastropubs, and mid-range dining.
Occasional taxis/rideshares, plus public transit.
Museum entries, guided tours, Granville Island Market exploration.
Coffee, snacks, small purchases, or a drink.
Luxury
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
4-5 star hotels in prime downtown or waterfront locations.
Fine dining, tasting menus, and high-end bars.
Private car services, airport transfers, and premium taxis.
Private tours, seaplane excursions, spa treatments, premium seats for shows.
High-end shopping, premium drinks, or incidentals.
Destination-specific money tips
- •Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are king; Amex is less common. Inform your bank before traveling.
- •While ATMs are plentiful, using your bank's affiliated ATMs or those in major banks (RBC, TD, CIBC, BMO) minimizes fees.
- •Tipping 15-20% is standard for restaurant servers, bartenders, and taxi drivers. It's often included in the bill for large groups.
- •Vancouver is known for its high cost of living, especially accommodation and certain imported goods. Look for deals on activities outside peak season.
- •Public transit passes offer good value for exploring the city efficiently and cheaply.
Plan the rest of your Vancouver trip
Trip budgets elsewhere