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 dorm bed or a shared room in an Airbnb outside the immediate downtown core.
Street food, casual eateries like ramen shops, and groceries for self-prepared meals.
Using the TransLink public transit system (bus and SkyTrain) with a Compass Card.
Exploring Stanley Park, Granville Island Market, and walking tours.
Small incidentals, occasional coffee.
Mid-range
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
A standard hotel room in a central location or a private apartment rental.
A mix of casual restaurants, cafes, and perhaps one nicer dinner.
Occasional taxis or ride-shares, plus public transit.
Entry to museums (e.g., Vancouver Art Gallery), a scenic gondola ride, or a guided tour.
Souvenirs, snacks, and other incidentals.
Luxury
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
A room or suite in a 4-5 star hotel with amenities and prime waterfront or downtown views.
Fine dining experiences, tasting menus, and premium cocktails.
Private car services, airport transfers, and potentially helicopter tours.
Private guided tours, premium whale watching excursions, or spa treatments.
High-end shopping, exclusive event tickets, or personal services.
Destination-specific money tips
- •Credit cards are king in Vancouver; Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere. American Express is less common but still widely used.
- •While ATMs are plentiful, use those affiliated with major banks (like RBC, TD, CIBC, Scotiabank) to minimize foreign transaction fees.
- •Tipping is a significant part of service worker wages; expect to tip 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and for services like taxis and hotel housekeeping.
- •Vancouver's food scene offers great value, especially for fresh seafood and Asian cuisine. Look for deals during happy hour ('L'Apéro' in some establishments) for cheaper drinks and appetizers.
- •Be aware that the cost of accommodation can be surprisingly high, particularly during peak summer months and major events, driving up the overall daily cost.
Plan the rest of your Vancouver trip
Trip budgets elsewhere