Getting Around

The integrated Translink public transport system is both highly efficient and good value. The computerised SkyTrain (light rail) has underground downtown stops as well as an elevated track. Its latest addition, the Canada Line, now connects downtown to Vancouver International Airport.

The Translink system also includes buses; electric trolley buses; West Coast Express trains (weekdays only); and SeaBus passenger ferries that connect downtown to North Vancouver. The network reaches every part of the city, including the beaches and ski slopes. After midnight, the regular bus system is replaced by a limited night bus service on main routes. Fares are based on a zone system and tickets are valid for buses, the SkyTrain and SeaBus with transfers valid for 90 minutes from the time they are validated.

Taxis are easy to come by at taxi stands, hotels, or by telephone, but can be difficult to hail outside of the downtown area. Vancouver's traffic and road network is fairly well-ordered, but hiring a car is not necessary in the city because the public transport is more than sufficient.

Airports

Vancouver International

The airport is located eight miles (12km) south of Vancouver.

Vancouver International (YVR)

Location

The airport is located eight miles (12km) south of Vancouver.

Getting to the city

The Canada Line connects the airport to downtown Vancouver in about 25 minutes. The service runs every 8 to 20 minutes. Scheduled buses are available to downtown Vancouver, Whistler, Vancouver Island and Washington State. Courtesy shuttles transport passengers to the Long-Term Parking Lot, South Terminal, local hotels and other destinations near the airport. Public bus services to Vancouver, Richmond and further afield are available at the Airport Station Bus Terminal.

Time

GMT -8 (GMT -7 from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November).

Car rental

Car hire companies Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Hertz and National are represented next to the terminal building on the ground floor.

Airport Taxis

Metered taxis are available around the clock outside the terminals. Prices and journey times are higher during rush hour; a tip of 10 to 15 percent is expected.

Transfer between terminals

A courtesy shuttle is available to the Airport South terminal.

Facilities

The main terminal has ATMs, bureaux de change, and a bank. There is a selection of bars, restaurants, and fast food outlets scattered throughout the airport, as well as a variety of shops, including duty-free, baggage storage, and a medical centre. Children's play areas are also available.

Parking

Vancouver International Airport offers a range of parking options in the parkade directly opposite the terminals.

www.yvr.ca/