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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803 120 MILROSS Avenue in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2781803
803 120 MILROSS Avenue Vancouver V6A 4K7 
$829,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2781803
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 778 sq. ft.
The Brighton by BOSA! This South-East facing corner unit features a gourmet kitchen w/gas stove & quartz counters; a large living room with a stunning feature wall & gas fireplace. The spacious versatile DEN can be easily converted to a 2nd bedroom. Large covered patio to enjoy the views of the water & North Shore Mountains. Insuite laundry. Well maintained building with excellent amenities include fitness centre, indoor pool, jacuzzi and steam/sauna. Easy walk to Olympic Village, Yaletown & Gastown. 1 parking, 1 storage locker. Tenanted. 24 hours notice for showings. More detailsListed by RA Realty Alliance Inc.
- MICHAEL BOOTH
- Century 21 In Town Realty
- (604) 309-3463
- Contact by Email
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1809 188 KEEFER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2784655
1809 188 KEEFER Street Vancouver V6A 0E3
$888,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2784655
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 850 sq. ft.
18th Floor at unique "188 Keefer" Main & Keefer St. Open view with 3 bedrooms plus den 2 full bathrooms and a NE balcony. Great amenities include lounge, exercise facility, BBQ garden yard and children play area. Steps to restaurants, shopping and transit. More detailsListed by Macdonald Realty - MICHAEL BOOTH
- Century 21 In Town Realty
- (604) 309-3463
- Contact by Email
-
204 189 NATIONAL Avenue in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "Sussex" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2789485
204 189 NATIONAL Avenue Vancouver V6A 4L8
$999,900Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2789485
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 1,069 sq. ft.
The "Sussex" at City Gate is quality built by Bosa. This unique and spacious bright corner unit 1,069 sq.ft. 3 bedroom & 1 bath home is perfectly laid out. With an updated open concept layout this home features high ceilings (8'7), large bedrooms, beautiful bathroom and hardwood flooring throughout. Amenities include a gym + billiards room. Quality, concrete building in an extremely well maintained complex. Central location just steps to the seawall, Skytrain, Olympic Village, Thornton Park, Chinatown, Downtown, Main Street, and more! A great investment in booming area with the addition of St.Pauls hospital in the near future. 1 Parking and 1 locker included. More detailsListed by Stilhavn Real Estate Services - MICHAEL BOOTH
- Century 21 In Town Realty
- (604) 309-3463
- Contact by Email
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304 120 MILROSS Avenue in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "The Brighton" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2801693
304 120 MILROSS Avenue Vancouver V6A 4K7
$995,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2801693
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,111 sq. ft.
Welcome to The Brighton by BOSA - a captivating 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo encompassing a generous 1111 sqft of modern living space, complemented by a charming patio. Nestled in an enviable location, this condo is a stone's throw away from the iconic Sea Wall and Science World. Step inside, and you'll be greeted by a thoughtfully designed kitchen, adorned with top-of-the-line amenities, including a sleek gas cooktop that promises to elevate your culinary prowess. The open-concept layout seamlessly connects the living and dining areas. Equipped with a fireplace, this is an ideal space for both relaxation and entertainment. Escape to the master suite, where a spacious walk-in closet awaits to cater to your storage needs. Embrace the perfect balance of comfort and style as you rejuvenate in the ensuite bathroom, equipped with modern fixtures and finishes. The building includes ideal amenities such as a pool, hot tub, exercise facility and more. More detailsListed by Engel & Volkers Vancouver - MICHAEL BOOTH
- Century 21 In Town Realty
- (604) 309-3463
- Contact by Email
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304 28 POWELL Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "Powell Lane" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2807096
304 28 POWELL Street Vancouver V6A 1E7
$599,900Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2807096
- Bedrooms:
- 1
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 650 sq. ft.
Stunning loft in Vancouver's vibrant neighbourhood, located at 28 Powell. This rarely available modern and spacious unit boasts 11' high ceilings and large windows, filling the space with abundant natural light. The open-concept layout offers a versatile living area perfect for entertaining guests. Large French doors open up to a 100sqft covered patio.The loft features sleek finishes, including polished espresso concrete floors and stainless steel appliances, adding a contemporary touch. Enjoy the convenience of nearby amenities, trendy cafes, and easy access to public transportation. Don't miss the opportunity to own this urban oasis in the heart of Vancouver. More detailsListed by The Agency Vancouver - MICHAEL BOOTH
- Century 21 In Town Realty
- (604) 309-3463
- Contact by Email
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401 125 MILROSS Avenue in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "CREEKSIDE" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2808454
401 125 MILROSS Avenue Vancouver V6A 0A1
$1,048,800Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2808454
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,172 sq. ft.
Welcome to CREEKSIDE centrally located within steps to the Seawall, Olympic Village, shops, restaurants & future hospital. Built by award winning BOSA this open-concept, corner 2 Bed 2 Bath features bright, floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the beautiful mountain & city views & brand new laminate flooring throughout. Kitchen with full S/S appliance package is complemented by granite counters. Spacious Primary bedroom fit for a king-sized bed connects to a walk-in closet with ample storage & Ensuite with soaker tub & separate shower. Relax or entertain on your large, covered balcony. 2 side-by-side Parking & Storage (located on the 4th floor) included in this Pet & Rental Friendly building with party room, gym, sauna & steam room. More detailsListed by Oakwyn Realty Ltd. - MICHAEL BOOTH
- Century 21 In Town Realty
- (604) 309-3463
- Contact by Email
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905 188 KEEFER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "188 Keefer" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2808651
905 188 KEEFER Street Vancouver V6A 0E3
$898,888Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2808651
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 807 sq. ft.
Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to live or invest in the heart of Vancouver’s historic Chinatown. Concrete built by renowned developer Westbank’s 188 KEEFER and thoughtfully designed by renowned architect W.T. Leung. Located steps away from the featured Saint Paul's Hospital project that is being built, close to Sky train, T&T, cinema, plenty of shops and dining. Walk Score 97. Enjoy this 2 bed + 2 bath open concept living space facing the North Shore mountains and panoramic Downtown views. Plenty of natural light, crossed ventilation, and a functional layout with a north-facing balcony. Contemporary kitchen, granite countertops, plank vinyl floors, GE appliances, and Blomberg in-suite laundry. 2,500 SF of amenity space includes an exercise center, BBQ terrace w/ fireplace, lounge, garden, children's play area, and an indoor common room w/kitchen. 1 underground secured parking stall, 1 storage locker and 1 bike locker included. Pet & Rent friendly. Your urban investment opportunity awaits! More detailsListed by Oakwyn Realty Ltd. - MICHAEL BOOTH
- Century 21 In Town Realty
- (604) 309-3463
- Contact by Email
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PH6 188 KEEFER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2809050
PH6 188 KEEFER Street Vancouver V6A 0E3
$1,358,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2809050
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 3
- Floor Area:
- 1,271 sq. ft.
Situated in the historic, vibrant and convenient Chinatown. This stunning N/E corner Penthouse with floor to ceiling windows is sure to impress, with panoramic City, Water and Mountain views. Designed by renowned architect, W.T. Lueng. 1271 Sq ft of 2 level spacious living with 2 bed + Den. This sleek and modern home boasts gorgeous hardwood floors. Miele appliances, gas cooktop, stone counters, Roller shades. 2 parking side by side and 2 storage lockers. Steps to a foodies paradise, you will find Kissa Tanto, Virtuous Pie and Bodega just to name a few. This rare opportunity awaits you! More detailsListed by Rennie & Associates Realty Ltd. - MICHAEL BOOTH
- Century 21 In Town Realty
- (604) 309-3463
- Contact by Email
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1903 125 MILROSS Avenue in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "CREEKSIDE" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2810057
1903 125 MILROSS Avenue Vancouver V6A 0A1
$899,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2810057
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 1
- Floor Area:
- 830 sq. ft.
You’ll instantly fall for this well kept home in “Creekside”, a superbly built Bosa property aptly named for being adjacent to False Creek & Creekside Park. This home is a “10” w/ high end, contemporary finishings: updated bathroom (2020), updated engineered flooring and cozy fireplace. Being a corner unit w/ floor to ceiling windows has advantages; Mt Baker visible as you awake, along w/ panoramic patio vistas stretching 180 degrees from Mt. Seymour to peak-a-boo False Creek water views. The primary is oversized w/ walk-through closet & ensuite access. The 2nd bedroom features custom Murphy bed & desk. A 95 walk score means a short stroll to sky train, or downtown/Olympic Village via the seawall. 1 parking, 1 storage More detailsListed by Stilhavn Real Estate Services - MICHAEL BOOTH
- Century 21 In Town Realty
- (604) 309-3463
- Contact by Email
-
302 1255 MAIN Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2810772
302 1255 MAIN Street Vancouver V6A 4B6
$1,100,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2810772
- Bedrooms:
- 3
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,335 sq. ft.
This remarkable corner 3-bdrm suite boasts a northeast exposure w/unobstructed views of Thornton Park & has one of best floorplans in the building!The living space of 1335 sf.&features 3 generously sized bedrooms,2 full baths,engineered hardwood floors,gas fireplace,in-suite laundry,2 balconies.The kitchen is upgraded w/ new SS appliances & large island.one underground parking & one locker included.Pets and rentals are allowed,making it a flexible living option in a desirable location.The building upgrades:a full repiping,installation of exterior fencing for improved security & obtaining a permit to construct a spacious patio w/views of False Creek.Convienient location with steps away from Science World,Olympic Village,Skytrain Station,Seawall,BC Place,Costco&upcoming St. Paul's Hospital! Showings on Saturday, April 15 from 1-2pm by appointments. More detailsListed by Sotheby's International Realty Canada - MICHAEL BOOTH
- Century 21 In Town Realty
- (604) 309-3463
- Contact by Email
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602 1188 QUEBEC Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "City Gate" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2811186
602 1188 QUEBEC Street Vancouver V6A 4B3
$1,229,000Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2811186
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 1,326 sq. ft.
BRIGHT & SUPER SPACIOUS 1,326 sq.ft. FULLY RENOVATED HOME with AMAZING FALSE CREEK WATER VIEWS. Upgrades includes Quartz surrounding Kitchen & Fireplace, Walnut Cabinets, Bloomberg/Whirlpool appliances, Wine Fridge, Porcelain Tiles surrounding Spa inspired Bathroom with RainShower/Bathtub/double sinks, Engineered Oak Hardwood Floor Throughout, Office Space with Custom Desk + wall closets. OLYMPIC VILLAGE Area, STEPS TO THE SEA WALL, built by BOSA with gym, pool, and jacuzzi. Walk to the Sky Train, Science World Park, shopping, restaurants, and coffee shops. No Pets. Call now to schedule a viewing ! More detailsListed by RE/MAX Crest Realty - MICHAEL BOOTH
- Century 21 In Town Realty
- (604) 309-3463
- Contact by Email
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705 188 KEEFER Street in Vancouver: Downtown VE Condo for sale in "188 Keefer" (Vancouver East) : MLS®# R2811566
705 188 KEEFER Street Vancouver V6A 0E3
$899,900Residential Attached- Status:
- Active
- MLS® Num:
- R2811566
- Bedrooms:
- 2
- Bathrooms:
- 2
- Floor Area:
- 805 sq. ft.
Welcome to 188 Keefer! Designed by renowned architect, W.T. Leung, the building seamlessly integrates with its historic and vibrant Chinatown location. This stunning corner suite features gorgeous city and mountain views, beautiful cherry hardwood floors & floor to ceiling windows in mint condition. Enjoy the elegant dark stone counter tops & backsplash & high end stainless steel appliances in your sleek kitchen. The efficient floor plan means lots of closet space, 2 big bathrooms, second bedroom or office is spacious and the covered balcony stays breezy in the summer. 1 parking & 1 storage included. Amenities include a residents lounge, large exercise facility, garden and outdoor fire pit & children’s play area. Steps from world-class restaurants, shopping & recreation - Keefer Bar, Bao Bei, Kissa Tanto, Fiorino, Sai Woo & Bodega, just to name a few! Open House: Stay tuned or call for private showing! More detailsListed by Engel & Volkers Vancouver - MICHAEL BOOTH
- Century 21 In Town Realty
- (604) 309-3463
- Contact by Email
