^{Jan 08, 2026}
FIFA World Cup 2026: Where to Stay in Greater Vancouver

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is coming to Vancouver, and the city is preparing to welcome thousands of international visitors. With matches hosted at BC Place and events taking place across the region, accommodation demand will be significantly higher than usual. Planning your Vancouver World Cup 2026 accommodation early will be essential to secure a comfortable and reliable place to stay.

Vancouver is one of Canada’s most popular destinations, even outside major events. During the World Cup, hotel availability will be limited, prices will rise, and last-minute options may be scarce. Many visitors will be competing for space in the downtown core during an already busy summer season. This guide outlines where to stay in Greater Vancouver and explains why furnished accommodation can be a practical alternative during this high-demand period.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Comes to Vancouver

Vancouver is one of the official Canadian host cities for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Matches will take place at BC Place, a centrally located stadium in downtown Vancouver with excellent access to public transit, dining, and entertainment. The tournament is scheduled for June and July 2026, which also coincides with peak travel season in British Columbia.

During this time, the city will experience a surge in visitors, including football fans, media teams, sponsors, contractors, and professionals involved in event operations. In addition to match days, Vancouver is expected to host fan events, corporate gatherings, and cultural activities throughout the region. This increased demand will place sustained pressure on hotels and short-term lodging across downtown and surrounding neighbourhoods.

Why Accommodation Will Be in High Demand

Vancouver has a relatively small hotel inventory compared to other global host cities. During major events, centrally located hotels often sell out months in advance, and nightly rates increase substantially. Extended minimum stay requirements are also common during high-demand periods.

At the same time, short-term rental regulations limit the availability of informal lodging options in many parts of the city. This makes it more difficult for visitors to rely on last-minute or unverified listings. As a result, travellers attending the World Cup may need to look beyond traditional hotels or consider areas outside the downtown core.

Greater Vancouver offers strong public transit connections, making it possible to stay in well-connected municipalities while still accessing BC Place and event areas efficiently. For many visitors, this approach offers greater comfort and flexibility.

Where to Stay for the World Cup in Greater Vancouver

Choosing the right location depends on your length of stay, travel style, and priorities. Below is an overview of key areas to consider when planning your Vancouver World Cup 2026 accommodation.

Staying in Vancouver

Downtown Vancouver is the most central option and places visitors within walking distance or a short transit ride from BC Place. Neighbourhoods such as Yaletown, the downtown core, and parts of the West End offer proximity to restaurants, waterfront areas, and cultural attractions.

However, accommodation in these neighbourhoods is typically the most expensive during major events. Availability may also be limited well in advance of the tournament, particularly for longer stays or larger groups.

Burnaby and New Westminster

Burnaby and New Westminster sit just east of Vancouver and are connected to downtown via the SkyTrain Expo Line. These areas offer a mix of residential and commercial neighbourhoods, along with shopping centres, parks, and local dining options.

For visitors who want easy transit access without staying downtown, Burnaby and New Westminster can provide a convenient balance between location, space, and comfort.

Richmond

Richmond is located south of Vancouver and is directly connected to downtown by the Canada Line SkyTrain. It is also home to Vancouver International Airport (YVR), making it a practical option for international arrivals or travellers with early or late flights.

Richmond offers a wide range of housing types, cultural amenities, and dining options, along with strong transit connectivity to the city centre.

Surrey and the Fraser Valley

Surrey is one of the largest cities in Metro Vancouver and is connected to downtown Vancouver via the Expo Line SkyTrain. The city offers more spacious residential areas, newer developments, and a wide range of services.

For families, groups, or visitors staying for several weeks, Surrey can be an attractive option. It allows for easier access to larger accommodations while remaining connected to World Cup events through public transit.

North Vancouver

North Vancouver is accessible from downtown via the SeaBus and offers a quieter setting with close proximity to nature. While travel times are slightly longer, the area appeals to visitors seeking a calmer environment during a busy event period, with easy access to trails, waterfronts, and outdoor spaces.

Hotels vs Furnished Accommodation During the World Cup

When attending a global event like the World Cup, accommodation needs often extend beyond a standard hotel stay. Understanding the differences between hotels and furnished housing can help visitors choose the right option.

Limitations of Hotels During Major Events

Hotels near BC Place and downtown Vancouver will be in high demand during the tournament. Guests can expect higher nightly rates, limited availability, and less flexibility for extended stays. Rooms may also feel restrictive for families, groups, or professionals travelling with work-related needs.

Benefits of Furnished and Serviced Accommodation

Furnished accommodation offers an alternative designed for temporary living. These properties typically include fully equipped kitchens, in-suite laundry, internet access, and comfortable living spaces. They are well suited for extended stays, families, or professionals attending the World Cup for work or related commitments.

Serviced furnished housing also provides consistency and reliability during high-demand periods. It allows guests to settle in comfortably, manage daily routines, and enjoy a more residential experience while staying connected to Greater Vancouver.

Planning Tips for World Cup Visitors

To secure suitable accommodation for the FIFA World Cup 2026, early planning is key. Consider the following tips:

• Book well in advance to access better availability and pricing
• Prioritize proximity to SkyTrain or SeaBus routes
• Look beyond downtown Vancouver for more flexible options
• Choose professional accommodation providers for added reliability

Visitors should consider how day-to-day logistics will work during the tournament. Match days are likely to bring heavier crowds, longer transit times, and limited availability at restaurants and services near the stadium. Choosing accommodation with nearby grocery stores, flexible check-in options, and easy access to transit can make a significant difference during a busy event period.

In addition, travellers staying for multiple weeks may benefit from accommodation that supports routine and comfort, such as in-suite laundry, dedicated workspaces, and separate living areas. Planning beyond match attendance can help ensure a more enjoyable World Cup experience in Greater Vancouver.

Is Greater Vancouver the Right Choice for Your Stay?

Greater Vancouver offers a wide range of accommodation options during the FIFA World Cup 2026, with strong transit connections, diverse neighbourhoods, and flexibility beyond the downtown core. Whether you choose to stay close to BC Place or in well-connected areas such as Burnaby, Richmond, Surrey, or North Vancouver, planning ahead will help ensure a smoother and more comfortable experience during this busy period.

If you are visiting the region and need reliable Vancouver World Cup 2026 accommodation, Highstreet Accommodations provides fully furnished and serviced housing throughout Greater Vancouver. Our short-term rentals are designed to offer space, comfort, and convenience, so you can focus on enjoying the tournament while feeling at home from day one.