Listed as one of Lonely Planet’s best in travel 2020, there’s never been a better time to visit Vancouver. Made up of lots of small friendly neighbourhoods, Vancouver doesn’t feel like Canada’s 3rd biggest city but more like an assortment of little towns.
Cool Vancouver is a cultural hub with awesome museums and galleries as well as a world-class restaurant scene. And if you ever want to get out of the centre, you’ve got beaches and the Rocky Mountains within half an hour!
If you’re reading this now, you’ve probably already decided to visit Vancouver and just need to decide where to stay. Well, if you want something with a bit of personality and individuality, why not check out Airbnb?
Whether you want a private room, a cool apartment with a view of the water, or even a penthouse with a rooftop hot tub, you’ll find all of that and more on Airbnb.
Instead of letting you trawl the ‘net for hours, I’ve put together this list of the best Airbnbs in Vancouver for you. I’ve taken several budgets, travel styles, and personalities into account, so there’ll definitely be something for you! Let’s jump right in and check them out.
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Quick Answer: These are the Top 5 Airbnbs in Vancouver
New York Style Loft
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Floor to ceiling windows
- > Cool minimalistic design
Bella’s Heritage House, City Hall
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Free breakfast included
- > Good Transport Links
Amazing Views, Modern Apartment
- > $$$$$
- > 4 Guests
- > Unlimited views of the city
- > Super stylish design
Modern Traveler’s Loft
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Free parking
- > Beautiful view
Bright Room in High Rise
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Amazing harbour views
- > Gym, pool, and jacuzzi access
What to Expect from Airbnbs in Vancouver
Vancouver is a bustling Canadian city with so much to offer. From the lakes, mountains and beaches to the sprawling cityscapes, there is literally something for everyone, and the same goes for the accommodation options too!
The cosmopolitan city is filled with towering buildings that host condos and apartments of all styles, while budget travelers can look out for private rooms and homestays.
When you are looking to be in the heart of the action you can find a cozy home right in the heart of Yaletown in Downtown Vancouver. For those who want something a bit more chill and peaceful, the Kitsilano neighborhood is the ideal place to stay in Vancouver for families and those looking for more chill vibes.
But before you go booking a place to stay, let’s take a quick look at the most common types of Vancouver vacation rentals.
Condos and apartments are prime real estate in Vancouver and the ideal vacation rental for those who want a modern, luxury and central stay.
Think panoramic city views, all the amenities and easy access to all the must-see places in Vancouver. Great for those traveling alone, in a couple or in a group – such as families and friends – you can all have your own private space as well as grand living areas (hopefully with those famous Toronto skyline views).
Don’t worry budget travelers, Vancouver Airbnb has spots for you too. Private rooms have some of the luxuries of apartments and condos without the hefty price tag. Rather than having an entire rental unit for yourself, you can cop yourself down in a comfortable and stylish room in a shared apartment.
If you’re visiting Vancouver with a large group or a family, you might find an entire house to be much more comfortable. You can find modern spaces, traditional cozy homes, cabins and everything in between.
They nearly always come with a fully equipped kitchen, living areas, and good sized bathrooms. If you have kids, make sure to look for one with a yard so they can run around and play. These are the most expensive type of home in Vancouver so wouldn’t be ideal for solo travelers or couples.
The Top 15 Airbnbs in Vancouver
Now you know a little bit about what to expect, it’s time to take a look at the best Vancouver Airbnbs for your next trip!
New York Style Loft | Overall Best Value Airbnb in Vancouver
Let the pictures speak for themselves! Maybe it’s the incredibly massive fridge or the charming exposed brickwork? Or maybe it’s the cool minimalistic style that makes this place the overall best Airbnb in Vancouver.
There are so many amazing things I could say about this place, but I’ll keep it short! It’s affordable, it’s super clean, and it’s in an absolute top location close to the city’s best attractions.
The big windows give the loft a super airy and welcoming feeling, so you’ll feel just like at home. It’s the ideal place for a solo traveller or couple that wants to explore the best of Vancouver without having to walk far!
Bella’s Heritage House, City Hall | Best Budget Airbnb in Vancouver
This is one of the best Vancouver apartment rentals for travellers on a budget and another budget bonus is the free breakfast. The breakfast consists of fruit salad, yoghurt, cereal, juice, and tea and coffee and is the perfect way to fuel up before a day exploring Vancouver.
The double bed is welcoming and comfortable and you’re sure to get a good night’s sleep. There’s a small price to pay for one of the cheapest Airbnbs in Vancouver – it’s a little out of the centre.
However, it’s easy to get to Downtown Vancouver or Kitsilano Beach from here on the Skytrain or by bike!
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REIAmazing Views, Modern Apartment | Over the Top Luxury Airbnb in Vancouver
Not only has it been featured in multiple Netflix series, but this Airbnb is also offering you the absolutely perfect luxury experience in Vancouver. Obviously, it has its decent price, but if you look past that number you’ll understand why.
Located in trendy Gastown, you can enjoy stunning views of Chinatown and the surrounding area. Thanks to the massive window front, you’ll be living in a light-flooded, airy elegant apartment that has been decorated with a great eye for detail.
It accommodates 4 guests and offers two spacious bedrooms with incredibly comfy beds. There’s also a gym and a spa, to get the ultimate relaxation during your stay.
Modern Traveler’s Loft | Perfect Vancouver Airbnb for Solo Travellers
When you’re a solo traveller, it’s normally a good idea to book a hostel to meet people. However, sometimes you want something a bit more private and luxurious and a bit less raucous.
This great Vancouver Airbnb allows guests to have space where they can relax and recharge their social batteries, while still being in one of the liveliest neighborhoods of the city!
Gastown District is literally on the doorstep. So, you’re right in the thick of all the nightlife action and it’ll be easy to get chatting to people at the nearby bars! Whether you want to make new friends or not, this is an awesome place to stay.
Bright Room in High Rise | Perfect Short Term Airbnb in Vancouver for Digital Nomads
Digital nomads will love this one – it’s quiet, has a desk and chair and high-speed internet. For when you need to unwind from all that screen time, there’s a gym, swimming pool, and hot tub on site!
There is also a fully equipped kitchen too so if you need to make lunch or dinner, there’s no problem there. The only downside is this one bedroom doesn’t have an en suite bathroom, but you only need to share with two other rooms.
Brush up before a night out on the town by taking advantage of the complimentary toiletries and fluffy towels that your hosts provide you with!
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Airbnbs in Vancouver
Here are a few more of my favorite Airbnbs in Vancouver!
Designer Gastown Loft | Best Airbnb in Vancouver for Nightlife
Not only is Gastown the best area for nightlife in Vancouver, but it’s also officially the 4th most stylish neighbourhood in the world!
If you want to see the best the city has to offer after dark in style, check out this awesome Vancouver apartment. If you have one too many drinks in the area’s awesome bars, restaurants, and clubs, you couldn’t get a nicer place to spend an extra couple of hours in a comfortable bed recovering.
If you’ve gone at it a too bit hard and would prefer a night in, you can enjoy a movie on the smart TV or take a relaxing bath in the soaker tub.
Cosy Suite w/ Water View | Best Short Term Rental for Couples
When you are travelling with your true love/random you met on Tinder, you want something a little bit special. Well, I’d say the awesome view of False Creek you get from this gorgeous Vancouver Airbnb ticks that proverbial box perfectly.
Not only is this a lovely cosy place to spend time with a loved one, but it’s also offering an incredible value for your money, with high-speed WiFi, a rooftop patio and pool, and so much more.
The location is spot on too – walking distance to Stanley Park and English Bay, two of the coolest places to visit in Vancouver.
Private Room w/ All the Amenities | Best Homestay in Vancouver
If you decide to stay with a local, you want someone who will make you feel welcomed and at ease. The host of this excellent Vancouver homestay has travelled himself and knows a thing or two about how to make guests comfortable, which is great news for you!
The room is perfectly set up for several travel styles – digital nomads take note of that desk and comfy office chair! If you want to kick back and relax, you have access to a Play Station and a foosball table, as well as the standard kitchen, Wi-Fi, and TV!
Bella’s Heritage House City Hall | Budget Homestay in Vancouver
A little out of the city centre, Bella’s Heritage House is the best cheap homestay in Vancouver. It’s not just the price of the room that will keep your costs down, but also the complimentary breakfast.
It includes yoghurt, fruit, juice, and tea or coffee all ideal for fuelling up before a day of sightseeing in Vancouver! Don’t expect to be within walking distance of the centre though – there’s a Skytrain station just a stone’s throw away.
This lovely historic house has mountain views from a gorgeous covered balcony – a great place to spend the evening!
Modern loft in heart of the city | Amazing Luxury Airbnb in Vancouver
With space for two people in this incredible Vancouver Airbnb, you can get a slice of luxury without parting with too much cash.
Travel with loved one and sleep easily on the king bed, before enjoying a meal you’ve prepared in the fully equipped kitchen. Then, head to the rooftop for fabulous 360 views of Vancouver and its surroundings!
When you eventually make it out of the apartment, you’re just two blocks from the Vancouver Art Gallery and Rogers Arena– so treat yourself to some cultured British Colombia activities.
Beachfront Log Cabin | Best Airbnb in Vancouver for Families
It may be 6km from Downtown, but this wood-finished log cabin is one of the best Airbnbs in Vancouver for families. It’s perfectly set up for families of all ages, and the ideal place for a get-together.
Not only is it close to Jericho Beach, but the house lends itself to family gatherings. There’s a loft area with a balcony, a seating area with a fire, and an outdoor dining space where you can enjoy what you’ve created together in the kitchen.
This is a great spot for a memorable trip for the whole family!
Bright Downtown Loft | Airbnb in Vancouver for a Weekend
Okay, I promise that this is the last apartment I’ll show you Downtown! Ideal for a single traveller or a couple, you can fit up to 4 guests in this cool loft.
It’s right in the thick of all the city’s attractions, as well as transport links like the Skytrain. If you’re only visiting Vancouver for a weekend, then this would be the perfect base.
Those who have their own transport will be delighted to know that the apartment has a free parking space, which you can use for free!
Downtown Condo in Historic Building | Best Airbnb in Downtown
I’ve already shown you plenty of apartments in Downtown Vancouver, but there are a couple more I just couldn’t miss off!
This micro suite manages to fit in 2 bedrooms and those huge windows offer incredible views of the city. The apartment has two queen-size beds, so there’s plenty of room to starfish. Even if you’re sharing!
Bright Kitsilano Studio | Top Value Airbnb in Kitsilano
Kitsilano, a laidback hippy area set around a huge saltwater swimming pool and beach, has plenty of Airbnbs in Vancouver Canada. And I just had to show you my favourite one bedroom apartment before I go and leave you to plan your trip!
This bright and modern studio is right in the centre of Kitsilano and offers easy access to the neighbourhood, and transport into downtown. There are a patio and garden where you can catch some sun too!
Trendy Yaletown Townhouse | Best Airbnb for a Group of Friends
Travelling to Vancouver with a group of friends? You’ll need somewhere with plenty of space then. Welcome to one of the trendiest and most spacious short-term vacation rentals in Vancouver!
The first one up can make drinks using the coffee maker… if they’re feeling nice that is. Make a big group dinner together before settling down in front of a movie or everyone’s favourite TV series on Netflix before having a few drinks and hitting the town!
Airbnb Experiences
Do you fancy a day trip to go with that nice little apartment?!
Airbnb Experiences is a feature offered by Airbnb that allows hosts to offer unique, curated activities to guests – or to anyone who’s interested in, even if they’re not staying at an Airbnb property. These experiences can range from cooking classes and guided tours to art workshops, outdoor adventures, and more.
Airbnb Experiences was created to offer travellers a deeper connection with a destination by offering truly unique experiences, all led by locals who are both knowledgeable and passionate about their city.
Some personal highlights of my Airbnb Experiences include a tapas bar-crawl in Granada, a Samurai workshop in Kyoto, and a graffiti spotting bike ride around Bogota.
FAQs on Airbnbs in Vancouver
Here’s what people usually ask me when they look for the best vacation rentals in Vancouver.
What To Pack For Vancouver
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for an Airbnb stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Don’t Forget Your Vancouver Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Vancouver Airbnbs
So, there you go. That concludes my list of the best Airbnbs in Vancouver. I hope there’s been something suitable for your travel style, budget, and even the size of your group!
As you can see from this extensive list, you’ll find something to suit you, however unreasonably needy you might be! Somewhere to crash after a mad night in Gastown? Yep. A friendly homestay with a local?
Of course. An over-the-top luxury Airbnb with a fire pit and bamboo garden on the roof? Yep, I got it! The only limits are your imagination and quite possibly your budget.
If I’ve given you too many of the best vacation rentals in Vancouver, take a breath and sit back a minute. Great. Then, pick my overall favourite Vancouver Airbnb – New York Style Loft. It combines value, style, and a great location and it’s a fabulous all-rounder.
Now, all that’s left is for me to wish you a fantastic vacation when you visit Vancouver!
- Check out our Backpacking Vancouver guide for in-depth info for your trip.
- Use our Where to Stay in Vancouver guide to plan your adventure.
- Backpackers and frugal travellers use our budget backpacking guide.
- Make sure you visit the most beautiful places in Canada too.
- That will of course include many of the stunning National Parks of Canada.
- A great way to see the country is by taking an epic road trip Vancouver to Calgary.
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