Explore the best ways to get to and around British Columbia, Canada. Learn about travel options including air, road, rail, and sea. From Vancouver International Airport to scenic train rides and BC Ferries, find detailed information on public transit, car rentals, and tips for navigating B.C.'s diverse landscapes.
Getting to and around British Columbia (B.C.) can be an enjoyable part of your travel experience, given the region's diverse landscapes and well-developed transportation infrastructure.
Getting to British Columbia
By Air:
Major Airports: The primary gateway is Vancouver International Airport (YVR), one of Canada's busiest airports with numerous international and domestic flights. Other significant airports include Victoria International Airport (YYJ) and Kelowna International Airport (YLW).
Regional Airports: Smaller airports like those in Kamloops, Prince George, and Comox provide access to more remote areas.
By Road:
From the USA: There are several border crossings if you’re driving from the United States, such as the Peace Arch border in Blaine, Washington, leading to Surrey in B.C.
Within Canada: Major highways connect B.C. with other Canadian provinces. The Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) is a popular route.
By Rail:
VIA Rail: Offers services from other parts of Canada to B.C., with scenic routes.
Rocky Mountaineer: A luxury train service providing a scenic travel experience through the Canadian Rockies.
By Sea:
Ferries: BC Ferries operates routes from the mainland to Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, and other coastal communities. There are also international ferry services from Washington State, USA.
By Bus:
Long-Distance Buses: Companies like Greyhound offer services to and from other provinces and the U.S.
Getting Around British Columbia
By Public Transit:
In Cities: Systems like TransLink in Greater Vancouver area provide buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus services. Victoria and Kelowna also have efficient bus systems.
For Longer Distances: BC Transit operates in many towns and cities outside the Greater Vancouver area.
By Car:
Rentals: Car rentals are available at airports and major cities.
Road Conditions: Be mindful of mountainous terrain and seasonal weather conditions, especially in winter.
By Domestic Flights:
Connecting Flights: For longer distances or to reach remote areas, internal flights can be convenient.
By Train:
Scenic Routes: Services like VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer offer spectacular scenic routes within B.C.
By Ferry:
Coastal Travel: BC Ferries connects the mainland with islands and coastal communities, offering stunning sea journeys.
Cycling and Walking:
Bike-Friendly Cities: Many cities in B.C., especially Vancouver and Victoria, are bike-friendly and have excellent walking paths.
By Taxi and Ridesharing:
Urban Areas: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available in urban areas.
Tips for Traveling in B.C.:
Book in Advance: Especially for ferries and trains during peak season.
Check Road Conditions: Especially in winter, as mountain passes can be challenging.
Consider Geography: Distances can be large, and travel can take longer than expected due to the terrain.
Explore Locally: Public transit in cities is efficient for local exploration.
Traveling in British Columbia offers a mix of urban convenience and access to vast, wild landscapes. Whether by air, road, rail, or sea, the journey through B.C. can be as memorable as the destination itself.
