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.
Compare your options — YVR → Downtown Vancouver
Distance ~13 km, typical journey 25–30 min.
| Option | Typical fare | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Public transport | Canada Line SkyTrain. | Cheapest safe option |
| Official taxi | Official metered taxi roughly C$35–C$45 to Downtown Vancouver. Fares vary. | Late arrivals, heavy luggage |
| Ride-hailing | Uber and Lyft operate. | available |
After landing — step by step
- 1Follow SkyTrain signs from the terminal
- 2Buy a Compass single (AddFare auto-applies)
Scam warnings
Unofficial 'limo' offers
Avoid this
- • Curbside private offers
Frequently asked
Q.How much is a taxi from Vancouver International Airport to Downtown Vancouver?
Official metered taxi roughly C$35–C$45 to Downtown Vancouver. Fares vary.. Always confirm the fare or that the meter is on before pulling away. Watch for: Unofficial 'limo' offers.
Q.What is the cheapest safe way from YVR to Downtown Vancouver?
Canada Line single (includes airport AddFare).
Q.Does Uber or ride-hailing work at Vancouver International Airport?
Uber and Lyft operate.
Q.What's the best way from YVR to Downtown Vancouver at night?
Canada Line runs until ~01:00; taxi after.
Q.What scams should I watch for going from YVR to Downtown Vancouver?
Top reported: Unofficial 'limo' offers. Use the official taxi rank, never accept a fare from someone approaching you in arrivals.
SOURCES