Getting Around Vancouver for the 2026 World Cup

Vancouver is compact, walkable and well served by public transport. During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the easiest way to reach BC Place and explore the city is to leave the car at home and use the SkyTrain, bus and ferry network. This guide explains the key routes and gives tips on navigating crowds.

From the airport to downtown

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) sits on Sea Island south of the city. The Canada Line rapid transit train links YVR to downtown Vancouver in under 30 minutes【787860600814884†screenshot】, with trains departing approximately every 6–10 minutes. You can board at YVR – Airport Station adjacent to the terminals; follow the signs for "Canada Line" after collecting your bags. The line runs north to Richmond and downtown; if you’re heading into the city, stay aboard until Waterfront or Vancouver City Centre stations. Tickets include a $5 airport surcharge and cost around CAD 10–11 for a single adult ride; the return trip from downtown back to the airport is cheaper because the surcharge is only charged on departures from YVR.

Using the SkyTrain to reach BC Place

BC Place is within a few blocks of two SkyTrain stops: Stadium–Chinatown on the Expo Line and Yaletown–Roundhouse on the Canada Line【461887902047585†screenshot】. From Waterfront Station you can ride either line: the Expo Line travels east to Stadium–Chinatown in about two minutes, while the Canada Line stops at Yaletown–Roundhouse in roughly three minutes. Both stations are about a five‑minute walk to the stadium. During the World Cup, large crowds are expected, so allow extra time for boarding and exiting trains. Follow the designated pedestrian routes (“Last Mile” corridors) and heed the advice of transit staff and volunteers.

Other transit options

Vancouver’s bus network fills gaps between SkyTrain lines. Popular routes include the 50 False Creek South/Downtown bus, which runs along Pacific Boulevard past BC Place, and the 19 bus along Pender Street. You can plan journeys using the TransLink trip planner or Google Maps. For water views, the SeaBus connects Waterfront Station to North Vancouver’s Lonsdale Quay every 15 minutes; from Lonsdale you can explore the North Shore and return in time for your match.

Paying for transit

TransLink operates a zone‑based fare system. You can pay fares with a reloadable Compass Card (CAD 6 refundable deposit), a disposable Compass Ticket or contactless payment (Visa/Mastercard/Apple Pay). Tap in at the station gates and tap out when exiting SkyTrain stations and SeaBus terminals. Buses are tap‑in only. Children aged 12 and under ride free.

Tips for match day travel