Getting Around

How to get to and from Vancouver International Airport — taxis, public transport, shuttles and car rental.

Transport Options at YVR

Vancouver International Airport is connected to Vancouver and the wider Canada transport network by multiple ground transport options.

Rail & Metro

The Canada Line SkyTrain reaches downtown (Vancouver City Centre Station) in about 25 minutes for CAD 9.55 (includes a CAD 5 YVR AddFare); trains run every 6 minutes at peak and every 12-20 minutes off-peak — generally the quickest and cheapest way into the city.

Bus & Shuttle

No dedicated daytime public bus operates from the airport since the Canada Line covers the route so effectively; the N10 night bus runs only from about 1am to 5am for late arrivals.

Taxi

Taxi stands are on level 2 of both the International and Domestic terminals; fixed rates apply for the roughly 30-35 minute ride downtown, which can stretch significantly during rush hour.

Rideshare

Uber and Lyft both operate from a designated pickup area on level 2 of each terminal — you'll need to connect to the airport's free wifi to request a ride.

Car Rental

Multiple agencies operate steps from the main terminal; a rental car is worth considering for families, groups, or anyone planning day trips to Whistler or the Fraser Valley.

Insider tip

If you're traveling with 3-4 people, a taxi often works out cheaper than the SkyTrain once you add up individual AddFare surcharges per rider — compare both before deciding.

Transport routes, fares and operators change frequently. Verify current options on the official Vancouver International Airport website before travel.

Pre-Book Your Transfer

Skip the taxi queue. Book a private transfer from YVR to Vancouver in advance and have a driver waiting when you land.

Recommended · Airport Transfer

YVR → Vancouver Transfer

Private and shared airport transfers — fixed price, no meter surprises. Driver meets you in arrivals.

Book transfer →

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Car Rental at YVR

Exploring Canada beyond Vancouver? Renting a car at the airport gives you maximum flexibility from the moment you land.

Recommended · Car Rental

Rent a Car at YVR

Compare rates from major and local car rental companies. Free cancellation on most bookings.

Compare cars →

LandingAtlas may earn a commission when you book through affiliate links.

Ground Transport Tips for YVR

Only use official taxi ranks or pre-booked apps at Vancouver International Airport. Avoid unofficial drivers approaching you in arrivals.

If a rail or metro connection exists, it is usually the fastest and most reliable option during rush hour.

Allow extra time for ground transport during peak hours. Vancouver city traffic can significantly extend journey times.

Download offline maps for Vancouver before landing — useful if your data connection is slow on arrival.

If travelling with heavy luggage, a private transfer or taxi is often more practical than public transport.

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