How to get from Vancouver International Airport to Downtown Vancouver

High confidenceChecked May 2026

Take the Canada Line SkyTrain direct to Downtown — C$9.45 with the airport AddFare, ~25 min.

Best options

Best overall
Canada Line SkyTrain to Waterfront / Vancouver City Centre.
Cheapest safe
Canada Line single (includes airport AddFare).
Best at night
Canada Line runs until ~01:00; taxi after.
With luggage / kids
SkyTrain has space; taxi for groups.
Taxi fare
Official metered taxi roughly C$35–C$45 to Downtown Vancouver. Fares vary.
Ride-hailing
Uber and Lyft operate.
available
Public transport
Canada Line SkyTrain.

After landing — step by step

  1. 1Follow SkyTrain signs from the terminal
  2. 2Buy a Compass single (AddFare auto-applies)

Scam warnings

Unofficial 'limo' offers

Avoid this

  • Curbside private offers
SOURCES
Full YVR airport guide