Places to Shop

For bargain hunters and bulk shoppers, boutique seekers and one-of-a-kind fashionistas, Vancouver is a playground with plenty of options. Neighbourhoods are distinct from each other in terms of the types of shop they feature and the level of service, while malls and supermarkets offer a one-stop shop for everything you can think of.

Areas To Shop

Vancouver can be conveniently split into shopping districts that have developed their own style, attracting similar stores. Robson Street is well known for its high fashion and its tourists, Main Street is the hub of local designers, and Commercial Drive is a haven for organic and cultural food. Head to Chinatown for inexpensive knick-knacks and…

Department Stores

The Bay, Sears and Zellers top the list for department stores across North America that have stood the test of time. In addition to their Downtown flagship stores, you can find these stores in almost every mall in the city. The most well-known department store historically is Woodward’s, a legendary building on West Cordova Street…

Independent Shops

There are a few independent stores that are top picks and deserve a special mention. The most up-and-coming independent fashion boutiques are opening along south Main Street, but also keep an eye out in Gastown. West 4th Avenue is a hotbed of local entrepreneurs concentrating on baby, kids’ and maternity items, while Commercial Drive continues…

Markets

Although markets are slowly gaining momentum in Vancouver, they’re still not as popular as they are in other parts of the world. The fresh produce markets are operated by Your Local Farmers Market Society and run all year-round in various neighbourhoods, as does the Granville Island Public Market. Setting itself up as the leading fashion…

Shopping Malls

There are a few key malls in the city that are on regular shopping routes. They are favoured by teenagers hanging out after school, parents trying to make the most of their free time and elderly people strolling through for exercise. They are filled with shops of every kind, from large international chains to independent…

Supermarkets & Hypermarkets

The easiest way to buy groceries is at a supermarket. You can do your weekly shop, buy flowers and plants as well as pick up bulk items and occasionally grab a bite to eat in a cafe. Most have fresh bakeries, fish counters and sections featuring food from around the globe. The Real Canadian Superstore…