Where to go shopping in Vancouver

Vancouver is the biggest city in British Columbia and a gem of Canada's West Coast. Surrounded by mountains and situated on the shores of the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is a place that combines all the adventure the BC backcountry is known for with one of Canada's biggest and most cosmopolitan cities.

Generations of immigration from around the world have given Vancouver a food scene that rivals any in North America. This is a place where laid-back West Coast vibes meet the colors and flavors of Asia, making it a city like no other.

It's also one of the most expensive cities in the world. A decades-long real estate boom has combined with the city's understandable popularity to make it an increasingly unaffordable place. But for those who can afford to live here, the city is a place where high-fashion clothing stores meet quirky boutiques and department stores, offering distinct retail experiences for everyone.

Whether you choose to explore the main shopping streets of Robson and Granville Street or visit some of the eclectic neighborhoods of the city, you'll soon find your own favourite shopping districts to enjoy. To make things easier on yourself, download the Bounce app so you can always find a place to store your bags in Vancouver. That way, you can transition seamlessly from a day of shopping in Vancouver into a night on the town, and pick up your new purchases whenever you're ready.

All you need to know when shopping in Vancouver

Shopping in Vancouver caters to all tastes and budgets. In among the downtown blocks bordered by Hastings, Georgia, Burrard, and Howe Streets, you'll find the city's department stores and some of its top fashion brands. But if you step away from downtown Vancouver and its famous Granville Street strip, you can explore vibrant farmers markets, quirky pop-up stores, and countercultural hubs that will give you an entirely different take on the city.

Shopping architecture

Vancouver’s shopping districts are a mix of stylish streets, unique neighborhoods, and modern malls. From the upscale Shaughnessy neighborhood with its beautiful boutiques to the South Granville shopping district to the funky vintage stores and restaurants of Commercial Drive, this West Coast gem is a shopper's paradise. Take advantage of Vancouver's reliable public transit system to get around the city and explore some of these fantastic areas for yourself.

• Robson Street: The city’s most famous shopping strip, lined with international brands and trendy boutiques. Popular with international students, this street has shops that run the gamut from high-end fashion to cheerful vintage to products from across Asia. There are also tons of restaurants and bars where you can take a break from shopping and spend some time soaking up local color.
• Granville Island: A haven for artisans and foodies, offering handmade goods and gourmet treats. This is the best place to go in Vancouver if you want to sample local products and learn more about the city's food culture. You'll be rubbing shoulders with some of the top chefs in the city as you pick out your produce here.
• Gastown: Known for its historic charm and boutique shops selling unique clothing, decor, and souvenirs. In among the usual kitschy souvenirs, you'll find some original stores offering something different. Plus, there are tons of great bars and restaurants to explore here, so you could easily spend a few hours in this celebrated district.
• Metropolis at Metrotown: A massive shopping mall in nearby Burnaby, featuring over 400 stores and entertainment options. Getting here from downtown Vancouver will require a ride on the city's answer to a subway system, the elevated driverless SkyTrain, but it's worth it if you want a classic North American mall experience at the region's biggest shopping center.

Opening hours and seasonality

Most shops in Vancouver are open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, with shorter hours on Sundays. Vancouver is becoming more and more of a 24-hour city these days, so you can usually find what you need no matter what hour of the day it may be.

Pricing and bargaining

Prices are fixed in most stores, but markets like Granville Island might allow some room for negotiation. Vancouver also hosts sales during Boxing Day (December 26) and summer months for great deals. If you do intend to negotiate at a farmers market or the local retail outlets, it's best to bring cash.

Shop like a local

• Bring reusable shopping bags, as Vancouver enforces a plastic bag ban. Vancouver is a city where most residents are very aware of environmental issues, just as you probably would be if you lived in a city this beautiful. If you do get caught without bags, remember that Bounce is always there to look after your things so that you don't have to struggle with your arms full of your new purchases.
• Take advantage of the city’s excellent public transport system to navigate between shopping districts. The SkyTrain goes straight to Metrotown Mall, just as it goes directly to Vancouver Airport, so consider investing in a travel pass if you plan to make use of this convenient network.
• Carry cash for smaller vendors in markets and independent shops. Cards are accepted just about everywhere, but having cash to hand can make it easier if you want to negotiate on price.

Unique shops to visit in Vancouver

Vancouver is home to unique stores that reflect its creative and multicultural spirit. If you want to unique shopping experience, you can definitely find it here. Check out some of these unusual stores offering products you simply won't find anywhere else.

Litchfield

Litchfield describes itself as a concept store 'featuring collectable tools for enriched living from global destinations.' Confused? To put it more simply, this boutique in Gastown specializes in functional and beautifully designed home goods, from Japanese ceramics to locally crafted furniture.

Address: 38 Water Street

The Regional Assembly of Text

A whimsical stationery shop offering handmade notebooks, quirky cards, and vintage typewriters. It’s a paradise for stationery lovers, and the perfect place to pick up unique gifts for anyone creative in your life.

Address: 3934 Main Street

Old Faithful Shop

A thoughtfully curated shop offering timeless homeware, decor, and lifestyle items, blending quality with functionality. This is where locals looking to decorate their multimillion-dollar condos come to show off their exquisite taste, and there's no denying that some of the items here can really elevate your home decor.

Address: 320 W Cordova Street

Fluevog Shoes

A visit to Fluevog Shoes is a must for footwear enthusiasts seeking bold and artistic designs. Known for its quirky, handcrafted shoes that blend style with comfort, this iconic brand has earned a cult following worldwide. Each pair tells a story, featuring vibrant colors, unique patterns, and high-quality craftsmanship that reflects the brand's dedication to individuality.

The Vancouver flagship store, located in the heart of historic Gastown, embodies the city’s creative spirit. Beyond shoes, Fluevog offers accessories like bags and wallets that are as distinctive as their footwear. The knowledgeable staff provide excellent service, helping you find a pair that perfectly matches your personality. Don’t forget to explore Gastown’s other unique boutiques while you’re in the area.

Address: 65 Water Street, Vancouver

MEC (Mountain Equipment Co-op)

For outdoor enthusiasts, this flagship store offers high-quality gear for hiking, camping, and other adventures. Most of the products are manufactured under the store's own brand, which emphasizes quality and durability. As a co-op, you'll need to buy membership, but it's worth it to support the store's mission of sustainability and environmental education.

Address: 111 E Broadway

Shopping experiences in Vancouver

Vancouver’s markets and specialty shops showcase the city’s diversity and creativity. If you really want to take the pulse of the city, visit some of these locations for a shopping experience you won't get anywhere else.

Granville Island Public Market

This bustling market is a hub for fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. It’s perfect for foodies and shoppers seeking unique finds. This market is almost as much of a tourist attraction as it is a place to do your shopping, but many of the products on offer here are things you won't get anywhere else. Plus, Granville Island itself, with its theaters, performing arts spaces, restaurants, and bars, is a great place to explore once your shopping is done.

Address: 1669 Johnston Street

Vancouver Art Gallery Store

Located in the iconic gallery, this shop features art-inspired gifts, books, and local artisan products.

Address: 750 Hornby Street

Be Fresh Local Market

A small but vibrant shop offering organic produce, eco-friendly products, and gourmet foods. There's also a stylish café here that makes a great place to spend some time over coffee.

Address: 1900 W 1st Avenue

Traditional shopping options in Vancouver

For conventional shopping experiences, Vancouver offers a variety of malls and high-street options:

Robson Street

A bustling street in the city center, Robson Street features popular brands like Aritzia, Lululemon, and Sephora alongside stylish boutiques.

Metropolis at Metrotown

Western Canada’s largest shopping mall, Metropolis offers everything from luxury brands to casual stores, plus a cinema and dining options.

Address: 4700 Kingsway, Burnaby

Pacific Centre

A centrally located shopping mall with high-end stores like Holt Renfrew, Apple, and Nordstrom, perfect for a luxurious shopping day.

Address: 701 W Georgia Street

Vancouver is a city that is forever evolving, and just when you think you've got a grip on the place, it changes again. That's as true with its retail offerings as it is with everything else about the place. Whether you're looking for used books and records, high-fashion, or a bottle of BC wine, the city has tons of great places where you can find everything you need.

Let Bounce make your shopping excursions easier and enjoy an incredible variety of what Vancouver has to offer shopaholics.