Downtown Vancouver has five distinct neighbourhoods: Gastown, Downtown West, Coal Harbour, West End, and Yaletown, and each neighbourhood attracts their own unique crowds and vibes.
Downtown Vancouver is one of Canada’s most livable downtown cores and offers its residents a true urban lifestyle that is envied worldwide. From Gastown’s cobblestoned streets to Yaletown’s trendy urban shopping and the West End’s famed beaches and parks, there is almost no reason to leave the downtown core.
Downtown Vancouver is home to several major shopping districts: Pacific Centre, Robson Street, and Yaletown. Each of these areas are all within walking distance from each other, so any avid shopper would be hard-pressed not to be able to find what they are searching for, and with so much to see, one could easily spend a day perusing from store to store
For students looking for a convenient place to live and study, they need not look further than the downtown core. At Robson Square, the University of British Columbia has a downtown campus featuring Continuing Studies, Faculty of Law, and Faculty of Medicine (including a full-time Masters in Health Administration program) and the respected Sauder School of Business. The UBC Bookstore, a branch of the UBC Library, and over 70,000 square feet of convention and event facilities round out the amenities offered.
Downtown Vancouver's Appeal
Downtown Vancouver’s five unique neighbourhoods each offer their own individual appeal, and depending on what you are looking for, each neighbourhood should be reviewed to find where your needs will best be met.
Gastown
Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood, Gastown, grew from a single tavern founded by John ‘Gassy Jack’ Deighton in 1867. Today, the district retains its historic charm and independent spirit. Victorian architecture houses a thriving fashion scene, impeccably curated décor boutiques, one-of-a-kind galleries, and some of Vancouver’s best culinary fare. It’s a gathering place for stylish locals and tourists alike. Gastown lies along the north of the downtown Vancouver peninsula, from Richards east to Main Street, and south to Hastings Street.
Gastown is a neighbourhood that seamlessly combines old with new, history with the way forward. Gastown is home to many of the city’s hottest restaurants, making it an excellent pick for a special night out. From European cuisine with farm-to-table flair through to Asian-inspired molecular gastronomy and everything in between, Gastown’s restaurants will not disappoint.
Coal Harbour
Even though Coal Harbour is downtown, it’s a surprisingly calm neighbourhood, right on the water’s edge. It’s even more surprising given its industrial history as a former shipyard sitting next to the railway terminal. The area starts at Canada Place and stretches west to Stanley Park, and is bordered by Burrard Inlet to the north, and West Georgia Street to the south. Coal Harbour is a charming mix of business and residential, being home to both the Vancouver Convention Centre as well as many condo towers, and hotel residences. Around this neighbourhood you’ll find locals and visitors mingling on the Seawall, neighbourhood cafes, restaurants, and a popular marina.
Coal Harbour is known for its high-end apartments, posh hotels, and beautiful views. Looking north, you will see Vancouver Harbour, North and West Vancouver, and the North Shore Mountains, including Grouse, Seymour, and Cypress. This notably quiet neighbourhood offers some reprieve and tranquility from the hustle and bustle of the rest of the city, and like many other areas of Vancouver that are close to the sea, offer a superb seawall walk that takes you right to Stanley Park.
Yaletown
A revitalized neighbourhood along False Creek that was once a warehouse district has been transformed into one of Vancouver’s chicest neighbourhoods, filled with residential loft spaces, sidewalk cafes, cool restaurants, unique shopping, and leafy parks. Several “loft-style” residential conversions and new construction have significantly increased the residential flavour of Yaletown.
The waterfront parks are a big draw in Yaletown. The city’s seawall runs right along the water, connecting two of the most prominent green spaces: David Lam Park and George Wainborn Park. Walk, jog, bike, or inline skate along the Seawall and you’ll find plenty of excellent public art sprinkled along the waterfront. The neighbourhood’s historical roots are also evident in the form of Engine 374, which pulled the first transcontinental passenger train into the city in 1887, on display at the Roundhouse Community Centre.
Downtown West
With its posh hotels, world-class shopping, and soaring office towers, Downtown West is the city’s heartbeat. Here you will find hotels such as the Four Seasons, Shangri-la, Hotel Georgia, and Fairmont Hotel. Most of these 5-star hotels have high-end residences attached to them with dedicated entrances and a 24-hour concierge. With upscale luxury residences (exclusively strata condos and townhomes), this area appeals to the trendy, fashionable, and ethnically diverse population who have been drawn by the lure of the downtown lifestyle. Residents here have chosen the Downtown area for its easy accessibility to their work environment, and because downtown is one of the most livable downtown cores while also offering its residents a truly urban lifestyle.
Downtown Vancouver Provides...
Beaches
Downtown Vancouver has numerous beaches, including English Bay Beach, Sunset Beach, and 2nd and 3rd Beach. These beaches are all open year-round and attract notable events throughout the seasons, such as the Festival of Lights fireworks display and the annual Polar Bear swim.
Parks
Parks are plentiful throughout the downtown core, with the most notable being Stanley Park; however, many other parks can be found throughout downtown, such as Sunset Beach Park, David Lam Park, Harbour Green Park, and Nelson Park, to name just a few.
Dining
Downtown provides the hottest dining scene in Vancouver. Countess restaurants line the streets serving all types of cuisine. From high-end dining to food trucks and everything in between, you will never run out of dining options in the downtown core.
Shopping
Home to Pacific Center and Robson Street your shopping options are limitless. You will find everything from the world’s top fashion brands to independent boutique stores, all at your fingertips and within walking distance.
Schools
For a downtown core it is surprising how many schools one will find here. There are numerous elementary schools here, including Lord Roberts, Lord Roberts Annex, and Elise Roy. King George Secondary School has a stellar reputation and offers many opportunities for older children in the family.
Sound Investments
With the high density combined with the livability score in Downtown Vancouver, housing prices are some of the most stable in the country; you will sleep soundly knowing your equity is protected.
The Downtown Vancouver Housing Market
Through rezoning, revitalization, and excellent urban planning, Downtown Vancouver has become one of the world’s most livable downtown cores. Composed almost entirely of strata condos and townhomes, Downtown Vancouver is a dense, modern, safe oasis.
Depending on where you choose to live, you will find a large variety of condos from older 60’s apartments located in the West End, to the elegant and chic apartments found in the Hotel Georgia and Shangri-la residences in the Downtown West area.
Your Life In Downtown Vancouver
Your Life After Work
Go to Gastown for dinner and unwind. After dinner, you will walk along the seawall past the convention center, where you will admire the sunset and the beautiful North Shore as you continue along on your way to Stanley Park.
Your Life On Weekends
Going to your favourite brunch spot, heading to the beach, running the seawall, or going to a concert, are just a few of the countless ways you will spend your weekend. After talking to other residents, you will learn that very few people own a car here, and you now realize why!
Dining and Entertainment
If you want to go to a nightclub there are numerous choices, with most being located along Granville Street, which shuts down entirely on Friday and Saturday nights. Music venues and concert halls are all abundant.
Family Activities
There is always something happening downtown for families; whether it is the spooky train in Stanley Park, the Christmas Market at Jack Poole Plaza, or the Festival of Lights in English Bay, you will never run out of activities for the little ones.
What You'll Love
The endless dining and entertainment options, a walk score that’s off the charts, subways, and busses leaving every minute, you will likely never want to leave downtown. This area truly is the heart of the city, and you will feel the pulse of everything going on around you when you live here; the sense of excitement one gets from living downtown never fades.
What You May Not Like
If it is peace and quiet and sizable square footage you seek, downtown will not be the place for you. The hustle and bustle of the city are evident everywhere. New developments do their best to reduce noise, but even the latest and greatest in technology cannot completely drown out the city’s sounds. Downtown being almost exclusively townhomes and condos, makes trying to find a house with a backyard virtually impossible, so if you are looking for a place for a large family and you are not prepared to sacrifice space, you will have to look elsewhere.
Downtown Vancouver Property Search
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1204 1088 QUEBEC Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "THE VICEROY" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2572623
1204 1088 QUEBEC Street Vancouver V6A 4H2 
$1,198,800Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2572623
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,131 sq. ft.
The Viceroy by Bosa at False Creek. This completely renovated 2 bedroom and 2 bathroom features fantastic open floor plan, view of False Creek, City and North Shore mountains from floor to ceiling windows and a huge patio, Morden kitchen next to full size dining room, A spacious Master bedroom including an en suite bathroom and walk in closet. Conveniently located near downtown, steps to transit, restaurants, recreation, parks, Olympic Village, Gastown, Chinatown and Downtown. Pets & rentals welcomed. Comes with 1 parking & 1 storage. More detailsListed by RA Realty Alliance Inc.
- MICHAEL BOOTH
- SUTTON GROUP-WEST COAST RLTY
- 1 (604) 3093463
- Contact by Email
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708 27 ALEXANDER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "THE ALEXIS" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2574926
708 27 ALEXANDER Street Vancouver V6A 1B2
$1,688,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2574926
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,383 sq. ft.
Welcome to The Alexis, one of Gastown’s premier heritage conversion buildings. No expense has been spared in this 1 Bedroom 2 Bathroom luxury sub-penthouse condo that was meticulously renovated to the utmost quality by internationally acclaimed interior designer, Patricia Grey. With 1,383 square feet of exposed open living, this exceptional suite comes fully loaded with integrated lighting and remote-controlled Lutron blinds, new windows, radiant in-floor heating, theatrical performing sound system, custom kitchen, extensive built-in features, Miele and Sub-Zero appliances, built-in vacuum system, ample storage space, spacious, spa-like bathrooms with steam shower and Villeroy & Boch ceramic bathroom fixtures, communal rooftop patio, and two secure side-by-side parking stalls. As featured in some of home magazine’s leading publications - including Architectural Digest and Western Living, this striking condo offers jaw-dropping unobstructed forever water, city, and mountain views. More detailsListed by Angell, Hasman & Associates Realty Ltd. - MICHAEL BOOTH
- SUTTON GROUP-WEST COAST RLTY
- 1 (604) 3093463
- Contact by Email
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2303 1088 QUEBEC Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2575215
2303 1088 QUEBEC Street Vancouver V6A 4H2
$1,186,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2575215
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,046 sq. ft.
Location! Location! Location! This convenient unit at the Viceroy on the 23rd floor boasts 1052 sf with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. The unit was renovated in 2019 with new features. It also comes with two rare parking stalls and one locker in this prime location. It also offers spectacular mountain and city views and the inlet! Steps to Downtown, Science World and much more. The extra large master bedroom, walk-in corner closet and ensuite bath. Building also has great amenities for your ideal life. More detailsListed by Royal Pacific Realty Corp. - MICHAEL BOOTH
- SUTTON GROUP-WEST COAST RLTY
- 1 (604) 3093463
- Contact by Email
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203 55 E CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "Koret Lofts" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2578395
203 55 E CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6A 0A5
$998,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2578395
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 1,200 sq. ft.
Welcome to this amazing, truly New York Style loft at the "Koret" building in the heart of Gastown. If you are looking for the perfect, stylish, unique and large loft, here it is. The open kitchen is a dream for entertaining and the dining area seats all of your friends at a large dining table. Walls of exposed brick, wooden beams and a beautiful historic ceiling make this outstanding loft a rare and unique find. Shower and bathroom are stylish, unique and practical. A huge, fully fenced and cozy common courtyard is equipped with BBQs and seating for your summer gatherings. This is the perfect place to create your stylish and creative abode, for working from home, having friends over or just to hang out. The loft comes with 1 parking and is on the quiet side of the building. More detailsListed by Macdonald Realty - MICHAEL BOOTH
- SUTTON GROUP-WEST COAST RLTY
- 1 (604) 3093463
- Contact by Email
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309 27 ALEXANDER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "ALEXIS" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2584702
309 27 ALEXANDER Street Vancouver V6A 1B2
$1,098,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2584702
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,109 sq. ft.
Alexis, a premier heritage building conversion in the heart of Gastown.One of only 3 ocean view lofts in the building. This sophisticated industrial style loft features 17 foot ceilings, exposed concrete columns & expansive views of the North shore mountains & Crab park. Towering 2 storey windows & walls perfect for your art pieces, feature gas F/P with an industrial metal notched facade & chrome diamond plate. Open kitchen has minimalist cabinetry, gas stove, Fisher & Paykel S/S fridge, Miele dishwasher and quartz countertops. Main floor bedroom has B/I double murphy bed/desk combination & thick frameless glass barn door. B/I storage under stairs, large primary loft bedroom with space for King bed with W/I closet, ensuite with separate seamless glass shower & soaker tub.1 secured parking. More detailsListed by Macdonald Realty - MICHAEL BOOTH
- SUTTON GROUP-WEST COAST RLTY
- 1 (604) 3093463
- Contact by Email
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303 55 E CORDOVA Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "Koret Lofts" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2586602
303 55 E CORDOVA Street Vancouver V6A 0A5
$1,188,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2586602
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,227 sq. ft.
Expansive NYC style loft in Gastown's coveted Koret Lofts. Recently renovated, this hip open concept space boasts gleaming concrete floors, large entertainment size living room w adjacent dining and kitchen, plus a flex area perfect for office, all adorned w exposed brick + old growth beams & mountain views! The pro chef’s kitchen is perfectly appointed w modern wht cabinetry, ss appliances, lrg gas range, wine fridge, stainless island. The master bedroom is hidden behind a beautiful custom built barn door, complete with lots of storage and large beautifully renovated spa-inspired ensuite bath w exposed bathtub + subway tiled shower. The building provides a great outdoor patio/seating/BBQ area for the owners' enjoyment. 2 pets ok. 1 u/g parking. OPEN HOUSE SUN 2-4PM (Sept 12) More detailsListed by Engel & Volkers Vancouver - MICHAEL BOOTH
- SUTTON GROUP-WEST COAST RLTY
- 1 (604) 3093463
- Contact by Email
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1 1182 QUEBEC Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Townhouse for sale in "CITY GATE" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2586901
1 1182 QUEBEC Street Vancouver V6A 4B2
$1,580,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2586901
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 2,165 sq. ft.
Welcome to highly sought after Citygate, built by the reputable Bosa. Rarely available, this 2165sqft, 3bed 3bth townhouse, w PRIVATE garage directly beneath the unit, features spacious rooms, high ceilings, large windows, sunken LIVRM, 2 gas fireplaces and a gourmet Kitchen w stainless steel appliance & tons of countertop space. A fenced backyard leads to an enclosed private patio backing onto a lush treed green space great for your summer BBQ! Amazing location - steps from Seawall, SkyTrain, Science World, Rogers Arena & future St. Paul's Hospital. 10 minutes walk to downtown, Costco, Chinatown, Rogers Arena, BC Place, T&T Market!! Great amenities incl: indoor lap pool, hot tub, gym, & bike room. Don’t miss out - Book your private appointment today!!!! More detailsListed by Macdonald Realty Westmar - MICHAEL BOOTH
- SUTTON GROUP-WEST COAST RLTY
- 1 (604) 3093463
- Contact by Email
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602 1188 QUEBEC Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "CITY GATE" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2589795
602 1188 QUEBEC Street Vancouver V6A 4B3
$1,318,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2589795
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,392 sq. ft.
Unobstructed VIEW of False Creek/Burrard Inlet, North Shore Mtns, and City is where this STUNNING, completely Renovated (2020), 1392 sq ft Two Bedroom Condo is located in this prestigious City Gate Building renowned builder BOSA. 2020 Renovations featuring Quartz surrounding Kitchen and Fireplace, Walnut cabinets, SS Bloomberg/Whirlpool Appl., Wine Fridge, Porcelain tiles surrounding Spa inspired Bathroom with Rainshower/bathtub/dbl sinks. Gleaming Eng HW flooring throughout. Office with custom desk, and much more! Excellent location, steps from Main Street-Science World Sky Train Station, Seawall, shops, Restaurants...etc. Amenities incl. Fitness Centre, pool, jacuzzi, sauna, meeting room and garden. NO PETS, Rentals Allowed w/Rest.(40 max). Pkg322 (P2) Locker322 (P1-1)(All Meas Approx. More detailsListed by RE/MAX Crest Realty - MICHAEL BOOTH
- SUTTON GROUP-WEST COAST RLTY
- 1 (604) 3093463
- Contact by Email
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1802 1188 QUEBEC Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "City Gate One By Bosa" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2590188
1802 1188 QUEBEC Street Vancouver V6A 4B3
$1,535,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2590188
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,328 sq. ft.
This sophisticated and minimalist design by Esperanza blends natural light, soothing hues of grey, soft whites and touches of oak, to showcase the beauty of the space. The open-concept features an Italian-inspired kitchen with sleek horizontal upper cabinets, stainless steel appliances and quartz countertops extending to provide a breakfast bar. The spacious living room, complete with a gas fireplace for those winter evenings, a dining area conceived for entertaining family and friends, the king-sized master bedroom and second bedroom, all have breath-taking views of False Creek, the city skyline and the mountains. There’s a covered balcony, wine bar, climate controlled wine closet and a spa-like ensuite with large walk-in shower. More detailsListed by RE/MAX Crest Realty - MICHAEL BOOTH
- SUTTON GROUP-WEST COAST RLTY
- 1 (604) 3093463
- Contact by Email
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2302 1188 QUEBEC Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "Citygate One" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2590413
2302 1188 QUEBEC Street Vancouver V6A 4B3
$1,450,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2590413
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,297 sq. ft.
Rarely available Waterfront Condo with a view of everything, False Creek, Science World, Vancouver Island. Huge 2 Bed, 2 Bath, 2 parking & storage. Northwest corner unit in Bosa's flagship Bldg - City Gate One. Easy access to city, Skytrain, very clean original condition, new floors & paint, well run building with pool & fully equipped gym, hot tub, sauna. No pets. This one has it all, better hurry!! More detailsListed by Sutton Group-West Coast Realty - MICHAEL BOOTH
- SUTTON GROUP-WEST COAST RLTY
- 1 (604) 3093463
- Contact by Email
