The 7 Best Hostels in Vancouver

Vancouver is a city that pulls you in with its mix of mountains, sea, and urban life, and finding the best hostels in Vancouver makes exploring it even better. I remember arriving here, unsure what to expect, but quickly falling for its charm. The towering glass buildings sit beside green parks, and the salty air from the Pacific reminds you the coast is close. It’s a place where you can hike in the morning and grab a coffee downtown by lunch. For budget travellers like me, hostels are the way to go.

The hostel scene here surprised me with how varied it is. Some are loud and full of energy, perfect for meeting people over a drink. Others feel quiet and cosy, ideal after a day wandering Stanley Park. Location matters too. You might be steps from nightlife or near a beach, depending on what you pick.

What I love most is how these hostels fit Vancouver’s laid-back yet lively vibe. They’re affordable, sure, but they also have personality. Staff often feel like mates, happy to share tips about hidden spots or cheap eats. It’s not just a bed, it’s a base to dive into the city.

I’ve stayed in a few myself, from creaky old buildings to modern setups with pod beds. Each one had something special, whether it was a rooftop view or a free breakfast that saved me a few dollars. Talking to other travellers, I heard the same, everyone has a favourite that matches their style.

This post is about my top seven picks after exploring and chatting with others. These hostels stand out for their feel, their extras, and how they let you experience Vancouver without breaking the bank. If you’re planning a trip, I hope this helps you find a spot that feels just right.

Quick Introduction to Hostels in Vancouver

Vancouver is a stunning city with mountains, ocean views, and a lively feel, making it a top spot for travellers like me. Hostels here are a brilliant way to stay on a budget while soaking it all in. They’re full of character, from old buildings to modern setups, and each one offers a unique taste of the city. I’ve stayed in a few and loved how they mix affordability with a warm, welcoming vibe.

The standard of hostels in Vancouver is very good. The hostel market in the city is dominated by two hostel chains: HI Vancouver and Cambie Hostel. HI Vancouver hostels are exceptional.

Here are some of the things you should consider before booking a hostel in Vancouver:

• Price - Dorm beds in Vancouver hostels cost between €29 and €40 a night, which I found fair for such a pricey city. Private rooms range from €55 to €140, depending on the place and season. It’s a solid deal when you want your own space without splashing out on a hotel.
• Amenities/Services - Most hostels come with free breakfast, like toast or fruit, which saves a bit of cash. You’ll find kitchens to cook in, Wi-Fi that actually works, and sometimes extras like bike rentals or game rooms. It’s the little things that make a stay comfy and fun.
• Location - Hostels pop up all over, from buzzing downtown streets to quieter spots near the beach. I loved being able to walk to places like Gastown or Stanley Park. Some are so central that you barely need public transport, while others give you a peaceful break from the city noise.
• Staff - The staff are a highlight, always friendly and ready to help. They’ve pointed me to great local cafes or warned me about tourist traps. It’s like having mates who know the city inside out, and their tips made my trips so much better. They really care about your stay.

The Best Hostels in Vancouver, Canada

Here’s my comprehensive guide to the 7 best hostels in Vancouver:

1. HI Vancouver Downtown

HI Vancouver Downtown sits on Burnaby Street in the West End, a peaceful corner just off the lively Davie Street. It’s a short stroll to English Bay beach and Stanley Park, with cafes and shops all around. I loved how easy it was to walk to downtown sights or hop on a ferry to Granville Island. The location feels like a sweet spot, blending city buzz with a touch of calm.

The vibe here is warm and laid-back, perfect for travellers who want to unwind but still chat with others. The atmosphere strikes a balance, not too rowdy, yet full of life in the common areas. I found myself swapping stories with folks from all over, drawn in by the friendly feel that fills the place.

What makes it special is the rooftop patio with cracking city views, a rare treat in a hostel. Recently spruced up, it’s got a fresh, modern edge while keeping that cosy hostel charm. For me, it’s a top pick because it mixes affordability with a real sense of community, making every stay memorable.

Rooms: The dorms at HI Vancouver Downtown are bright and simple, with four beds max, so it never feels cramped. Each has a light, plug, and locker for your stuff, plus a sink which I found handy. Private rooms are snug, sharing clean bathrooms down the hall. Everything’s comfy and practical, just what you need after a day out.

Services/Facilities: You get free breakfast—think bagels and fruit—plus a big kitchen to cook your own meals. There’s Wi-Fi everywhere, a games room with pool tables, and that rooftop patio for chilling out. Bike rentals and a 24-hour desk add convenience. It’s all about making life easy and fun for guests.

Who It’s For: Solo travellers looking for a friendly base, couples wanting a budget stay with extras, or small groups after a social yet relaxed spot will love it here.

A Quick Overview of HI Vancouver Downtown:

• Prime West End Location: Just off Davie Street, close to beaches and Stanley Park, with easy access to downtown Vancouver.
• Rooftop Patio with Views: A standout spot to relax or mingle, offering stunning city sights you won’t forget.
• Free Breakfast Included: Simple but filling—bagels, fruit, and coffee to start your day without spending extra.
• Cosy, Modern Dorms: Four-bed max with lockers, lights, and plugs, blending comfort with a fresh, updated feel.
• Lively Common Areas: Games room, kitchen, and lounge spaces that spark chats and new friendships.
• Helpful 24-Hour Staff: Always there with tips or a smile, making your stay smooth and welcoming.

Dorm beds from €40, Private rooms from €138
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

2. HI Vancouver Jericho Beach

HI Vancouver Jericho Beach is tucked away on Discovery Street, just a short walk from the sandy shores of Jericho Beach. It’s a bit outside the city centre—about 20 minutes by bus—but that’s part of its charm. I loved being surrounded by parkland and having ocean views of downtown and Stanley Park, making it a perfect spot for anyone craving nature with city access.

The vibe here is relaxed and outdoorsy, with a friendly atmosphere that invites you to kick back. It’s housed in an old army barracks, which adds a quirky, historic feel. I found it buzzing with travellers chatting in the lounge or planning beach trips, yet it’s calm enough to unwind after a busy day exploring.

What stands out is the on-site DICED café, a licensed spot run by culinary students—great food with a good cause. It’s a brilliant hostel because it blends budget-friendly stays with a laid-back coastal feel, plus extras like bike rentals. For me, it’s a gem for enjoying Vancouver’s natural side without the downtown hustle.

Rooms: The dorms are spacious, sleeping 14 to 18, but split into four-bed sections for a bit of privacy. Beds come with linens and lockers, and some are freshly renovated. Private rooms offer queen beds or bunks, sharing clean bathrooms down the hall. It’s simple, comfy, and just right for a restful night.

Services/Facilities: You’ll find a big kitchen for cooking, free Wi-Fi, and laundry to freshen up. The DICED café serves breakfast and dinner, and there’s a TV room for chilling out. Bike and kayak rentals make exploring easy, while the 24-hour desk keeps things smooth. It’s got everything you need for a hassle-free stay.

Who It’s For: Beach lovers, budget travellers, and groups seeking a chilled-out base with outdoor perks will feel right at home here.

A Quick Overview of HI Vancouver Jericho Beach:

• Beachside Bliss: Steps from Jericho Beach, with parkland and ocean views of downtown and Stanley Park.
• Historic Charm: Housed in old army barracks, giving it a unique, story-filled character.
• DICED Café On-Site: Licensed café with tasty meals by culinary students, supporting a community cause.
• Spacious Dorms: Large yet cosy, with four-bed sections, lockers, and renovated options for comfort.
• Outdoor Extras: Bike and kayak rentals to dive into Vancouver’s natural playground.
• Friendly Hangout Spots: Big kitchen, TV room, and a relaxed vibe perfect for meeting fellow travellers.

Dorm beds from €32, Private rooms from €64
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

3. St. Clair Hotel-Hostel

St. Clair Hotel-Hostel sits on Richards Street, right in Vancouver’s downtown core. It’s a stone’s throw from Gastown’s cobbled streets and the buzz of Granville Street, with Stanley Park just a short walk away. I loved how easy it was to pop out for a coffee or catch the Skytrain nearby. The location puts you smack in the middle of the city’s action without feeling overwhelming.

The vibe here is chilled and welcoming, with a nod to its 1911 roots. The atmosphere feels like stepping into a maritime tale—think old ship charm mixed with modern comfort. It’s quiet enough to relax but lively enough to meet fellow travellers over a cuppa in the lounge. For me, it’s got that homey touch that’s hard to find.

What makes it unique is its heritage building and nautical theme, plus no dorms—all private rooms at hostel prices. It’s a cracking choice because it blends history with affordability, offering a snug stay in a prime spot. I’d pick it again for its character and the ease of exploring Vancouver from its doorstep.

Rooms: All rooms are private, no dorms here, with options like doubles or triples featuring a sink inside. Beds are comfy with fresh linens and towels included. Shared bathrooms are kept clean, though they’re basic. It’s simple, practical, and feels like a proper room rather than a hostel bunk.

Services/Facilities: You get free tea and coffee all day, plus Wi-Fi that’s decent in common areas. There’s a coin laundry for longer stays, a small lounge with a TV, and a microwave for quick snacks. The staff share local tips, and there’s luggage storage too.

Who It’s For: Solo travellers or couples wanting private rooms on a budget, without the dorm chaos, will find it spot-on.

A Quick Overview of St. Clair Hotel-Hostel:

• Central Downtown Spot: On Richards Street, close to Gastown, Granville, and Stanley Park for easy exploring.
• Nautical Heritage Charm: Built in 1911, with a ship-inspired theme that adds a unique, cosy feel.
• Private Rooms Only: No dorms, just affordable private doubles or triples with sinks for extra comfort.
• Free Tea and Coffee: Available all day, a small perk that makes mornings and evenings better.
• Handy Coin Laundry: On-site washing facilities, perfect for travellers staying a few days or more.
• Friendly Local Advice: Staff know Vancouver well and help with tips on sights and hidden gems.

Private rooms from €89
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

4. YWCA Hotel

YWCA Hotel is smack in the heart of downtown Vancouver, on Beatty Street, opposite BC Place Stadium. It’s a quick walk to Robson Street’s shops and Gastown’s charm, with the Skytrain just five minutes away. I loved how everything felt within reach—Rogers Arena, the waterfront, even Stanley Park if you fancy a longer stroll. It’s perfect for diving into the city.

The vibe is friendly and relaxed, with a modern twist that makes it feel more like a budget hotel than a typical hostel. The atmosphere is bright and open, thanks to big windows and a cheerful lobby. It’s got a welcoming buzz, not too loud, just right for chatting with other travellers or unwinding after a day out.

What sets it apart is its focus on private rooms only—no dorms—and its social enterprise mission, funding community programmes. It’s a cracking choice because it’s affordable, safe, and packs in extras like guest kitchens. For me, it’s the ideal mix of comfort and value, with a feel-good factor thrown in.

Rooms: All rooms are private, from singles to quints, with air-con, mini-fridges, and flat-screen TVs. You can pick private or shared bathrooms—both are spotless. They’re simple but smart, with desks and comfy beds. Linens are included, and some have city views, making it feel like a proper home base.

Services/Facilities: Free Wi-Fi keeps you connected, and three guest kitchens let you cook your own grub. There’s a gym, laundry room, and free coffee every morning in the lobby. The 24-hour desk staff are ace, always ready with local advice. It’s practical and thoughtful, covering all the bases.

Who It’s For: Budget travellers, families, or mates who want private rooms with a social twist will love this spot.

A Quick Overview of YWCA Hotel:

• Downtown Sweet Spot: On Beatty Street, opposite BC Place, minutes from Robson Street and Skytrain links.
• Private Room Focus: No dorms, just cosy singles to quints with modern touches like air-con and TVs.
• Community Good Vibes: A social enterprise where your stay helps fund local women’s and family programmes.
• Guest Kitchens Galore: Three fully equipped kitchens for cooking meals and saving cash.
• Free Coffee Fix: Complimentary coffee each morning in the lobby to kickstart your day.
• Helpful 24/7 Staff: Friendly team on hand round the clock with tips to explore Vancouver.

Private rooms from €113
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

5. Vancouver Backpacker House

Vancouver Backpacker House is located in Burnaby, a 10-minute walk from Metrotown Station and the massive Metropolis at Metrotown mall. It’s about 14 minutes by Skytrain to downtown Vancouver, so you’re close to the action without being right in it. I liked how it’s near coffee shops and the community centre too, giving you a local feel with easy city access.

The vibe is casual and no-fuss, with a homely atmosphere that feels like crashing at a mate’s place. It’s a converted house, so it’s small and laid-back, perfect for kicking back after a day out. The shared spaces buzz with friendly chats, though it’s not a party spot—more a spot to relax and swap stories.

What’s unique is the self-check-in system via text or WhatsApp, which feels modern but quirky. It’s a solid pick because it’s cheap, no-frills, and in a handy spot for exploring. I found it great for keeping costs down while still enjoying Vancouver’s sights, making it a practical base for a budget trip.

Rooms: The rooms are basic but do the job—dorm options with single beds or private rooms with doubles, all sharing bathrooms. Expect simple setups with lockers in dorms and a sink in privates. They’re clean enough, though a bit worn, and comfy for a short stay on a tight budget.

Services/Facilities: You get free Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen with the basics, and a lounge for hanging out. Free street parking is a bonus, and there’s laundry for a fee. It’s self-service with no staff on-site, so it’s all about keeping things simple and affordable.

Who It’s For: Budget backpackers or solo travellers who don’t mind DIY check-in and basic digs will find it fits the bill.

A Quick Overview of Vancouver Backpacker House:

• Handy Burnaby Location: A 10-minute walk to Metrotown Station, 14 minutes by Skytrain to downtown Vancouver.
• Self-Check-In Twist: Unique system via text or WhatsApp, adding a modern, independent feel to your stay.
• Homely and Relaxed: Converted house with a casual vibe, ideal for unwinding rather than partying.
• Free Street Parking: Rare perk for drivers, making it easier to explore beyond public transport.
• Shared Kitchen Access: Cook your own meals with basic gear, keeping costs low and flexible.
• Close to Local Life: Near coffee shops, the mall, and community centre for a taste of Burnaby.

Dorm beds from €29, Private rooms from €55
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

6. Cambie Hostel Gastown

Cambie Hostel Gastown sits on Cambie Street in Vancouver’s historic Gastown district. It’s a short walk from Waterfront Station, putting you close to Rogers Arena and the Steam Clock. I loved how the cobblestone streets and trendy bars were just outside the door, making it easy to explore the city’s lively core without a long trek.

The vibe here is buzzing and social with a proper party feel thanks to the Cambie Pub downstairs. The atmosphere is loud and fun, perfect if you enjoy late nights and meeting new people. It’s got a rough around the edges charm with travellers from all over filling the common areas with chatter and laughter.

What makes it stand out is the resident cat Oreo who adds a quirky touch to the chaos. It’s a top hostel because it’s cheap, central and throws you into Vancouver’s nightlife. I found it brilliant for a budget stay where the focus is on fun over fancy.

Rooms: The rooms are all dorms with no private options, offering four or eight bunks, basic but clean enough. You get linens, a locker and shared bathrooms that are decent though a bit dated. It’s cramped and noisy, especially with the pub below, so earplugs are a must for light sleepers.

Services/Facilities: Free Wi-Fi keeps you online, and there’s a shared kitchen with a stove and fridge for cooking. The pub offers 20% off food and drinks plus a common room with a TV. Laundry’s available and the 24-hour desk sorts you out anytime.

Who It’s For: Party-loving backpackers and solo travellers who thrive on a lively social scene will enjoy this spot.

A Quick Overview of Cambie Hostel Gastown:

• Prime Gastown Location: Right on Cambie Street, steps from Waterfront Station and the heart of Vancouver’s historic district.
• Lively Party Vibe: The Downstairs pub pumps out music and energy, making it a hub for night owls.
• Resident Cat Charm: Oreo the cat roams around, bringing a fun, quirky twist to your stay.
• Budget-Friendly Dorms: All dorms are set up with four or eight beds, keeping costs low for a central spot.
• Pub Perks Included: 20% off at the Cambie Pub, perfect for cheap meals and drinks with mates.
• Social Common Spaces: Kitchen and TV room where travellers swap stories and unwind together.

Dorm beds from €33
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

7. Cambie Hostel Seymour

Cambie Hostel Seymour is perched on Seymour Street in downtown Vancouver, a heartbeat away from Granville’s lively strip. It’s just a few minutes’ walk from Waterfront Station, linking you to Stanley Park or Gastown’s charm in no time. I found its spot brilliant for jumping into the city’s mix of shops, bars, and sights without fuss.

The vibe here is upbeat and sociable, fuelled by Malone’s Taphouse downstairs, where craft beers flow and weekends hum with music. The atmosphere blends old-school charm from its 120-year-old building with a youthful buzz. It’s the kind of place where you’re bound to swap tales with strangers over a pint.

Its standout feature is the heritage feel, paired with a 20% pub discount for guests, a rare treat. It’s a cracking hostel because it’s affordable, central, and perfect for diving into Vancouver’s nightlife. I loved how it balances history with a lively edge, making every stay feel like an adventure.

Rooms: The dorms are modern and snug, with two or four beds, each offering free Wi-Fi and a locker. Shared bathrooms on both floors are clean, though basic. Private rooms come with double bunks, ideal for mates. It’s simple, functional, and keeps that heritage vibe intact.

Services/Facilities: Free Wi-Fi runs throughout, and there’s a guest kitchen with a stove and fridge for cooking. Malone’s Taphouse offers discounted grub, while a lounge with TV and laundry keep things practical. The 24-hour desk staff are always up for a chat or a city tip.

Who It’s For: Young travellers, couples, or mates after a social, budget stay with a pub twist will feel right at home.

A Quick Overview of Cambie Hostel Seymour:

• Downtown Hotspot: On Seymour Street, minutes from Waterfront Station and Granville’s entertainment hub.
• Heritage Meets Modern: A 120-year-old building with a fresh, sociable feel that stands out.
• Pub Discount Bonus: 20% off at Malone’s Taphouse, blending hostel life with local craft beer vibes.
• Cosy Dorm Options: Two or four-bed dorms with lockers and Wi-Fi, keeping it simple yet comfy.
• Guest Kitchen Access: The kitchen is fully equipped for cooking, so you can save cash while you explore Vancouver.
• Round-the-Clock Staff: 24-hour desk with friendly faces ready to share local know-how.

Dorm beds from €37, Private rooms from €83
Check Prices On Hostelworld!

Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Vancouver

Vancouver is a city that sticks with you, and staying in the best hostels in Vancouver makes it even more special. The mix of snowy mountains, crashing waves, and busy streets is hard to beat. I’ve wandered through its parks and sipped coffee in its quirky cafes, always glad to have a cosy hostel to return to. These places are more than just cheap beds, they’re where you feel the city’s heartbeat.

Hostels here have a knack for bringing people together. I’ve shared laughs with strangers over breakfast and swapped travel tips in common rooms. Whether it’s a lively spot downtown or a quiet one by the sea, each has its own charm. They’re perfect for anyone who wants adventure without spending a fortune.

Looking back, I can’t pick a favourite because they all gave me something different. One had a bar that kept me up late, another had views that made mornings magical. The staff were always a highlight, making me feel at home. It’s those little moments that turn a trip into a story worth telling.

If you’re heading to Vancouver, give these hostels a go. They’re affordable, friendly, and let you dive into the city’s spirit. I’ve loved every minute of my stays, and I’m sure you’ll find one that fits you just right. Pack your bags and see for yourself, it’s a trip you won’t forget.

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