Ultimate Vancouver Guide by Neighborhood

As far as underrated cities go, Vancouver is one of the best of them! Though it's not exactly New York, Paris, or Rome, it's still a great place to see and probably even stay for a long period of time. Mostly because the city is a whole host of cultures, taking pride in the fact that it's one of the most diverse cities in the world. On the topic of diversity, you might not find a city like Vancouver that embraces it so much. The sense of community is strong here that you'd really just want to live here and get in on the fun. And if you do plan on staying here, consider these neighborhoods!

 

Downtown Vancouver

You're probably going to Vancouver to live out the city life, aren't you? Go out for a nice cup of coffee during the day and get all dressed up to dance at a nightclub at night? Yep! Many go to Vancouver just to live out such a lifestyle. And a good number of them stay in Downtown Vancouver. The city's strong business hub, it's home to countless establishments that will keep you busy for days on end. Luxury shopping, fine eateries, modern art galleries, and more. And by nightfall, you're treated to a bustling nightlife scene. 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

Gastown

If you're more of a peaceful owl, Gastown is probably better for you. Nightlife shouldn't just be about partying all night long in bars and nightclubs. Sometimes, a good dinner with your friends, a nice stroll with your partner, or even some late-night jazz will do. Well, this is the sort of nightlife that Gastown offers. And they do it so beautifully too. The place lights up at night with lamps and fairy lights, providing the right mood for a peaceful night out with friends or your significant other. Don't forget to snap away to make your Instagram feed as pretty as can be! 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

Kitsilano

For the most part, Kitsilano is a quiet and peaceful time filled with all sorts of humble charms. It was said that back in the 1960s, this was the area where hippies mostly hung out, probably similar to the SoHo area in Manhattan New York. Nowadays, however, Kitsilano has become the go-to Vancouver destination for summertime fun. It boasts a great beach park for people to splash around in the seaside and build sandcastles in. A public salt-water pool also provides a less sandy and calmer alternative. Not to mention the many festivals that turn the mostly peaceful neighborhood into a big carnival! 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

Main Street

If Kitsilano was the "hipster haven" of Vancouver of the 1960s, that title is now better fitted for Main Street. Think independent boutiques that sell quirky fashions. Novelty coffee shops that boast their own breweries. Record shops that sell music that are so rare, you probably forgot or didn't even know they existed. If you want to live out a lifestyle that is mostly unique from others and you want to fill your place with all sorts of great and rare finds, this is your best neighborhood! Just don't be that annoying hipster who thinks he/she's better than everyone else! 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

Olympic Village

To this day, Vancouver is still proud that they hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics, so much so that you can actually live in the exact village where the athletes stayed. Yep, Vancouver turned that international area into an actual Olympic Village. And it's no surprise too, considering that the place has a lot to offer. For one thing, its waterfront area is one of the best of its kind in the country. A beautiful view awaits those who want to take a stroll during the sunset. Now, if you want a different view, head on over to the higher levels to see the beautiful Vancouver skyline. 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

West End

There are so many great things to do at Vancouver's West End that it's impossible to know where to start. If you want the best shopping in town, then Robson Street is your spot! This iconic street is where the best stores in the entire city are found. Luxury brands as far as the eye can see, as well as a few homegrown labels that are with your investment. Then, if you'd rather relax on a sunny day at the beach, this neighborhood boasts a few parks and seaside areas where you can do so! And of course, a flurry of fine dining establishments to keep you full and happy during your stay here! 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

Yaletown

Don't you just love it when old places are transformed into new establishments? This way, you can still marvel at the old-school architecture while still enjoying what it has to offer for today. And in Vancouver, the neighborhood with the most of such sites is Yaletown.  The place used to be a have for warehouses and other industrial structures, but now, those same places have transformed into hip and trendy hotspots. You'll have a great time spending time in the many industrial-style places while enjoying some fine food and delicious drinks that are on offer! 

Source: Wikimedia Commons

 

As the saying goes, "don't knock it till you try it!" Vancouver may seem like the least interesting city to visit or even stay at but you never know until you actually go here. You might find that any of the many interesting neighborhoods actually offer the exact lifestyle you want to live out!