Public transit (Translink) bus routes extend across Greater Vancouver. Ask the driver for a transfer so you can switch to the SkyTrain or SeaBus – catamarans that cross the harbor in a short 12 minutes. The Victoria Regional Transit System operates a large network of buses across Victoria.

Vancouver’s SkyTrain is mainly an above-ground light rapid transit system. It also includes Canada Line, which has 16 stations and connects downtown to Vancouver International Airport and Richmond. Tickets are also transfers. They are good for 90 minutes, and valid for round trips and connections to buses and the SeaBus.

Vancouver’s TransLink system has three fare zones, but on weekdays after 6:30pm and weekends, the system reverts to one zone. Victoria’s transit system has two fare zones. In both cities, bus drivers do not sell tickets or provide change. If you don’t have a ticket, pay the exact cash fare when boarding. Sheets or books of 10 tickets and day passes are money-savers. These are sold at SkyTrain stations (Vancouver) and at many convenience stores and supermarkets. People with disabilities, children 5 to 13 years, seniors and students with proper ID are eligible for concession fares. Children under 4 years ride free in Vancouver, under 6 in Victoria.

Flagging a taxi on Vancouver city streets is easy – cabs are plentiful. In Victoria, fewer taxis cruise the streets, so it is best to order a cab by phone.

Ferries to Victoria and the Gulf Islands depart from Tsawwassen; those to Nanaimo, the Sunshine Coast, and Bowen Island leave from Horseshoe Bay. All ferries carry bicycles for a fee. Car reservations are advised for peak periods.

Walking is the best way to explore downtown Vancouver and Victoria. Streets are fairly safe (For further details see Dangerous Areas). The south arm of the False Creek seawalk leads from Vanier Park past several beaches to Spanish Banks, UBC, and beyond. In Victoria, a walk on the Inner Harbour promenade offers views of historic buildings and the harbor.

Both Victoria and Vancouver operate a shared-ride service for people unable to use public transit. Pre-register at least 10 days ahead of your trip.

Cyclists must follow the same rules of the road as drivers. Bikes may not be ridden on sidewalks, and wearing a helmet is mandatory. Bikes are allowed on Vancouver’s SkyTrain and SeaBus in non-peak hours. Buses in both cities offer bike racks on many routes.

A good map is essential, especially in Vancouver. Hwys 1 and 99 can be very busy during rush hour. There are no freeways by-passing the city core. Speed limits are posted. Right-hand turns on red lights are legal throughout BC unless otherwise posted.

For boat tours of Howe Sound and Victoria Harbour, check with the tourist information centers in Vancouver and Victoria.