For most travellers the best way from Vancouver airport to the city is the Canada Line SkyTrain. It runs from the Vancouver International Airport (YVR) station to downtown in about 26 minutes, with no road traffic to worry about. Taxis, rideshares and private shuttles cost more but go door to door.
Canada Line from YVR
The station is connected to the terminal. A single tap of a Compass Card or a contactless credit card opens the gates, and the line links to the rest of the SkyTrain network. Waterfront Station is the usual stop for downtown.
Trips that start at YVR carry a YVR AddFare, which rose from $5 to $6.50 on July 1, 2026. It is added to the regular zone fare on eastbound trips from the airport and is not charged going to the airport. Check the current fare table on the TransLink site before you travel.
At busy hours the train can be crowded, so plan for that if you are carrying large bags.
Taxi from the airport
Taxis wait at the airport stand and charge a zone fare. The Canada Place and downtown zone fare has been $46 since October 11, 2024, including a $4 airport charge, and it does not change with traffic. The drive takes about 30 minutes. Card and cash are accepted. Confirm the fare for your destination at the stand before you get in.
See Vancouver taxi for local companies if you need a ride elsewhere in the city.
Uber and Lyft
Uber and Lyft are authorized to operate at YVR. Pickup areas are on Level 2 at International Arrivals and Domestic Arrivals, and at the South Terminal. Drivers wait in a dedicated area a short distance from the terminal, so collect your luggage before you request the ride. The price is shown in the app before you confirm and depends on demand, so compare it with the taxi zone fare.
Private shuttles and rental cars
Pre-booked shuttles and limousines run between YVR and downtown, and the company quotes the price when you book. Ask what is included and how long the driver waits after a delayed flight.
Major rental agencies operate at the airport, and a car makes sense if you plan to travel beyond Vancouver. Downtown parking costs more and traffic can be dense at rush hour, so if you are staying in the centre, transit or a taxi is more practical.
Choosing between them
With light luggage and a downtown hotel near a station, take the train. With several bags, small children or a late arrival, a taxi or rideshare saves effort. If you want a known price before leaving the curb, the taxi zone fare gives it to you.