6+ Hours at Vancouver International Airport - Header image

6+ Hours at Vancouver International Airport

Maeve Power
Spend your 6+ hour layover exploring the city or the surrounding area instead of sitting in the terminal. Check out these options for a longer layover at Vancouver International Airport.
Spend your 6+ hour layover exploring the city or the surrounding area instead of sitting in the terminal. Check out these options for a longer layover at Vancouver International Airport.

Head downtown

If you have a longer layover at YVR, take the opportunity to visit downtown Vancouver. The city center is located just 8 miles (13 km) from the airport and is well connected via public transport links. Spend your day exploring the city or strolling by the water and enjoy the beautiful views of Vancouver Harbour. Always make sure you leave plenty of time to get back to the airport and through security before your next flight.

Avoid downtown

If you have a longer layover but don’t want to spend it in the city, head to Pacific Spirit Regional Park. Located 10.2 miles (16.5 km) from the airport, spend your day exploring the 73 km worth of hiking trails through this beautiful forest park. To get to the park catch the Canada Line to King Edward Station. There are a number of connecting buses you can then catch to Westbound W 16 Ave @ Wesbrook or to The University of British Columbia. Walk for approx. ten minutes to get to the park.

Transport Options

Bus: The YVR Whistler Sky Linx public bus system connects Vancouver Airport to downtown Vancouver and the surrounding areas. Visit the website for fares and schedules.Train: The Canada Line is the fastest way to get from YVR airport to downtown Vancouver. The ride takes just 26 minutes and stops at surrounding areas along the way. The Canada Line train platform is located between the International and Domestic Terminals. Visit the website for fares and schedules.

Overnight Layover?

If you have an overnight layover at YVR and want to get a good night’s sleep, your best option is the Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel. The hotel is connected to the terminal, so you don’t have to leave the airport to visit the hotel. If you want to get some rest but don’t want to book a hotel room for the night, the Plaza Premium Lounge is a great option. The lounge has nap room available to rent for 3 and 6-hour time slots. Sanctifly premium members can use a pass to access the lounge, however, booking the naps rooms will incur an extra charge.

Luggage Storage

CDS Baggage ServicesShort and long term services available for $5 – $8.50 per item. Located before security on Level 2 in both International (Open daily from 05:00 – 01:00) and Domestic (open daily from 05:00 – 23:00) terminals.
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