Whether you’re looking for a luxurious room in a high-rise hotel or a dingy downtown dorm, Vancouver has accommodations to suit all budgets. Downtown hotel room rates fluctuate greatly depending on supply and demand, much more so than bed-and-breakfasts and motels in suburban locations.

In Vancouver, demand is highest in summer and on weekdays, so if you’re looking to save a few bucks, plan on being in town in the cooler months (May and September are my favorite times in the city), or stay at a business hotel as part of a weekend package. One word of warning: If you plan to have a vehicle, prepare yourself for parking fees up to $30 per day in the downtown area; ask if weekend rates include free parking—they often do.

The following recommendations reflect my favorites in various price categories throughout the city. You won’t find every downtown hotel mentioned here, and outside of downtown only convenient and good-value choices are included.