Vancouver International Airport Lounges: The Ultimate Guide

The Vancouver International Airport (YVR) offers visitors a choice of 13 lounges in the Main Terminal: 3 in the Domestic piers, 6 in the International, and 4 in the US Transborder piers. While some lounges require a membership or premium credit card to visit, others charge only an entrance fee.

Key Takeaways

• Travellers from any airline can visit the 2 Plaza Premium Lounges in the Domestic Concourse of the Main Terminal for a fee, while the Maple Leaf Lounge is reserved for Air Canada customers.
• The Plaza Premium Lounge is the only airport lounge in the International Concourse of the Main Terminal that doesn’t require a boarding pass from a specific airline to visit.
• The Plaza Premium Lounge in the US Transborder Concourse in the Main Terminal welcomes travellers from any airline, while the Maple Leaf Lounge accepts only Air Canada customers.
• There are no lounges in the South Terminal of the Vancouver Airport.

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Vancouver Airport Domestic Concourse lounges

The Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is divided into 2 terminals (Main and South), 3 concourses (Domestic, International, and US Transborder), and 5 piers (A – E).

If your destination is in Canada, you’ll depart from Pier B or C in the Domestic Concourse in the Main Terminal. Pier B hosts Air North, Air Transat, Flair Airlines, Porter Airlines, and WestJet, while Pier C services Air Canada and Air Canada Express.

Only 2 of the Domestic Concourse’s 3 airport lounges are open to travellers from any airline.

1. Plaza Premium Lounge (Domestic, Pier B)

Location: Main Terminal, Domestic Concourse, Pier B, Level 3, near Gate B15, after security

Hours: Monday – Sunday, 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Entry requirements: Domestic boarding pass AND entry fee ($62 – $100 per adult traveller for 2 – 6 hours, $43 – $70 for children ages 2 – 11, and free for children under 2) OR premium credit card OR DragonPass, Lounge Key, Plaza Premium Lounge Pass, or Priority Pass membership

New, modern, and superbly lit, the Domestic Plaza Premium Lounge in Pier B sets the tone for premium lounges at Vancouver Airport. Your seating choices include club chairs, bar seating, and cubicles, while your refreshment choices can be hot, cold, or alcoholic.

If you have a travel credit card, there’s a good chance you can get in for free or at a reduced cost. Plaza accepts travellers with a World Elite Mastercard, the American Express Platinum Card, or a card with the Visa Airport Companion program.

Book online or call +1 604-276-0082 to reserve your spot.

What we love about it:

• No membership required
• Online advance booking discount
• Showers available for $22
• Accessible washrooms
• Complimentary e-newspapers, newspapers, magazines, and television broadcasts
• Complimentary self-serve beverages and food
• Complimentary Wi-Fi and charging stations
• Computer station
• Flight monitors
• Premium drinks available
• Faxing, printing, and photocopying services available
• Vegetarian and gluten-free dining options

2. Plaza Premium Lounge (Domestic, Pier C)

Location: Main Terminal, Domestic Concourse, Pier C, Level 3, near Gate C29, after security

Hours: Monday – Sunday, 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Entry requirements: Domestic boarding pass AND entry fee ($62 – $100 per adult traveller for 2 – 6 hours, $43 – $70 for children ages 2 – 11, and free for children under 2) OR American Express Platinum, World Elite Mastercard, or Visa Airport Companion premium credit card OR DragonPass, Lounge Key, Plaza Premium Lounge Pass, or Priority Pass membership

The Plaza Premium Lounge in Pier C takes after a restaurant, with seating for up to 36 guests and a time limit of 2 hours. Book online or call +1 604-276-0082 to reserve your seat so you can relax and enjoy the à la carte dining experience.

What we love about it:

• No membership required
• Online advance booking discount
• Complimentary food and beverages
• Complimentary e-newspapers, newspapers, magazines, and television broadcasts
• Flight monitors
• Full-service bar
• Premium drinks available
• Public washrooms (accessible stall available)
• Faxing, printing, and photocopying services available
• Vegetarian and gluten-free dining options

3. Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge (Domestic)

Location: Main Terminal, Domestic Concourse, Pier C, Level 3, near Gate C29, after security

Hours: Monday – Sunday, 5:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Entry requirements: Domestic Air Canada, Emirates, or Star Alliance member boarding pass AND Aeroplan Elite, Super Elite, 75K, or 50K membership OR Aeroplan credit card OR Business, First, or Premium Rouge Class OR Emirates Skywards Gold or Platinum membership OR Maple Leaf Club membership OR Star Alliance Gold membership

The simplest way to know if you can enter the Maple Leaf Lounge is to check the bottom of your Air Canada boarding pass. If you don’t see an invitation, you can buy access for $49 – $79 per traveller. Or, check your wallet – if you have a CIBC or TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card (or American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve, Corporate, or Reserve Card), you might qualify for entry.

Once inside, pick a leather club chair or dining seat and relax. You have up to 3 hours before your flight departs to enjoy the lounge. If you’re on a connecting flight, you can visit any time.

What we love about it:

• 7,000+ magazines and newspapers available via PressReader App
• Available up to 3 hours before qualifying flight
• Cell-free quiet zone
• Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi
• Complimentary food and beverages
• Business centre with desktop PCs and colour printing
• Live news and sports television broadcasts
• Pets allowed in carriers
• Showers with complimentary soap, shampoo, and towels

Vancouver International Airport, Main Terminal, International Concourse lounges

The International Concourse in the Main Terminal features 6 airport lounges, 1 of which is free.

Although Pier D has the highest number of lounges in the airport, there are only 2 that don’t require a boarding pass from a specific airline:

1. Plaza Premium Lounge (International)

Location: Main Terminal, International Concourse, Pier D, Level 3, near Gate D68, after security

Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:30 AM – 12:00 AM; Saturday, Sunday, 6:30 AM – 12:00 AM

Entry requirements: International boarding pass AND entry fee ($62 – $100 per adult traveller for 2 – 6 hours, $43 – $70 for children ages 2 – 11, and free for children under 2) OR American Express Platinum, World Elite Mastercard, or Visa Airport Companion premium credit card OR DragonPass, Lounge Key, Plaza Premium Lounge Pass, or Priority Pass membership

At the time of writing, the lounge has been moved to a temporary location with fewer facilities while the new space undergoes construction. You might not be able to get a shower but you can still enjoy a meal – plus a hefty discount if you show your Smart Traveller membership card.

Book online or call ahead at +1 604-276-0082 to reserve.

What we love about it:

• No membership required
• Online advance booking discount
• 20% discount for Smart Traveller members
• Complimentary newspapers, magazines, and television broadcasts
• Complimentary self-serve beverages and food
• Premium drinks available
• Vegetarian and gluten-free dining options
• Wheelchair accessible

2. Quiet Area

Location: Main Terminal, International Concourse, Pier D, Level 3, near Gate D67, after security

Hours: 24/7

Entry requirements: International boarding pass

Short on cash, time, or premium credit cards? The YVR Quiet Area welcomes travellers from any airline at any time of day. The naturally-lit, carpeted space features club chairs and lounge chairs for travellers who just need to rest their feet for a few minutes.

What we love about it:

• No membership required
• Free
• Stretching mat provided
• Quiet zone

3. Cathay Pacific Lounge

Location: Main Terminal, International Concourse, Pier D, Level 3, near Gate D71, after security

Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Sunday, 8:30 AM – 12:00 PM; Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Sunday, 8:00 PM – 11:30 PM

Entry requirements: International Cathay Pacific or Oneworld boarding pass AND Business or First Class flight status OR Cargo Clan Elite membership OR Cathay Diamond, Gold, or Silver membership OR Cathay Lounge Pass membership OR Oneworld Emerald or Sapphire frequent flyer membership

The Cathay Pacific Lounge caters to eastbound business travellers and offers a zen, modern space to relax with multiple seating options. Travellers can bring 2 guests per Diamond Cathay membership and 1 guest per First Class boarding pass or Gold Cathay membership card.

If you just signed up for a Cathay membership (or you haven’t signed up yet), grab your card and show it to reception. Green members can experience the lounge just once for free – so make sure to savour the experience.

What we love about it:

• 3 individual workstations with PCs (Windows and Mac) and printers
• Cold cuts, tapas, and light fare options for sale
• Complimentary all-day breakfast, dim sum, local food selections, and noodle bar
• Complimentary newspapers and magazines
• Complimentary showers
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Private washrooms
• Service animals welcome

4. SkyTeam Lounge (International)

Location: Elevator access via Main Terminal, International Concourse, Pier D, Level 3, near Gate D53, after security

Hours: 24/7

Entry requirements: International SkyTeam member airline boarding pass AND First Class flight status OR DragonPass, Diners Club, Global Lounge Network, Lounge Club, LoungeKey, Lounge Pass, or SkyTeam Elite Plus membership

Step into the glass elevator and you’ll be transported to a brand-new, airy lounge overlooking the airport and tarmac. Warm wood accents outline a variety of seating areas, from bar stools and dining tables to sound-muffling workstations and chaise lounges.

If you aren’t a member, you could always try making friends – SkyTeam Elite Plus members can bring 1 guest.

What we love about it:

Available up to 24 hours before departure

Cellphone-free quiet zones

Complimentary self-serve beverages and food with local Pacific salmon

Complimentary newspapers, magazines, and television broadcasts

Complimentary shower facilities

Complimentary Wi-Fi and charging stations

Flight monitors

5. Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge (International)

Location: Main Terminal, International Concourse, entrance to Pier D, Level 3, after security

Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Saturday, 6:30 AM – 12:30 AM; Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday, 7:30 AM – 11:30 PM; Friday, 6:30 AM – 11:30 PM

Entry requirements: International Air Canada, Emirates, or Star Alliance member boarding pass AND Aeroplan Elite, Super Elite, 75K, or 50K membership OR Aeroplan credit card OR Business, First, or Premium Rouge Class OR Emirates Skywards Gold or Platinum membership OR Maple Leaf Club membership OR Star Alliance Gold membership

The contemporary International Maple Leaf Lounge in Vancouver is divided into several seating areas with a bar, desks, sofa chairs, and casual dining tables. While departing customers must visit within 3 hours of their flight, connecting fliers can visit whenever they wish.

What we love about it:

• 7,000+ magazines and newspapers available via PressReader App
• Available up to 3 hours before qualifying flight
• Cell-free quiet zone
• Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi
• Complimentary food and beverages
• Business centre with desktop PCs and colour printing
• Live news and sports television broadcasts
• Pets allowed in carriers
• Showers with complimentary soap, shampoo, and towels

6. Air Canada Signature Suite

Location: 2nd floor of the International Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge (Main Terminal, International Concourse, entrance to Pier D, Level 3, after security)

Entry requirements: Air Canada Signature Class international boarding pass

Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Saturday, 6:30 AM – 12:30 AM; Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday, 7:30 AM – 11:30 PM; Friday, 6:30 AM – 11:30 PM

Refined, luxurious, and elegant, the Air Canada Signature Suite in Vancouver lives on the second floor of the International Maple Leaf Lounge in Pier D. Upstairs, guests enjoy an elite dining club with excellent views, emphasized by architecture by Heekyung Duquette and a menu designed by chef David Hawksworth.

What we love about it:

• No reservations necessary
• 1 Complimentary sit-down meal
• All-day hot buffet
• Complimentary signature cocktails
• Flight monitors
• Personalized concierge service
• Premium skincare products by Molton Brown available for purchase
• Premium spirits available

Vancouver International Airport, Main Terminal, US Transborder Concourse lounges

There are 4 lounges in the US Transborder Concourse in Vancouver Airport’s Main Terminal.

While the Plaza Premium and Maple Leaf Lounges cater to departures, travellers who have just stepped off a plane in need of refreshment might want to check out the Fairmont Hotel’s Jetside Lounge. Last but not least, there’s the super-exclusive Fairmont Gold Lounge at the top of the airport hotel.

1. Plaza Premium Lounge (US Transborder)

Location: Main Terminal, US Transborder Concourse, Pier E, Level 3, near Gate E88, after security

Hours: Monday – Sunday, 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Entry requirements: US boarding pass AND entry fee ($62 – $100 per adult traveller for 2 – 6 hours, $43 – $70 for children ages 2 – 11, and free for children under 2) OR American Express Platinum, World Elite Mastercard, or Visa Airport Companion premium credit card OR DragonPass, Lounge Key, Plaza Premium Lounge Pass, or Priority Pass membership

The Plaza Premium US Transborder lounge has space for 132 guests. Updated, clean, and modern, travellers can relax in leather club chairs, bar stools, or dining room seats while sampling complimentary refreshments.

Book online or call +1 604-276-0082 to get an advance booking discount.

What we love about it:

• No membership required
• Online advance booking discount
• Showers available for $22
• Accessible washroom
• Complimentary e-newspapers, newspapers, magazines, and television broadcasts
• Complimentary self-serve beverages and food
• Faxing, printing, and photocopying services available
• Flight monitors
• Premium drinks available
• Telephone available
• Vegetarian and gluten-free dining options

2. Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge (US Transborder)

Location: Elevator access via Main Terminal, US Transborder Concourse, Pier E, Level 3, near Gate E85, after security

Hours: Monday – Sunday, 6:45 AM – 9:00 PM

Entry requirements: US Air Canada, Emirates, or Star Alliance member boarding pass AND Aeroplan Elite, Super Elite, 75K, or 50K membership OR Aeroplan credit card OR Business, First, or Premium Rouge Class OR Emirates Skywards Gold or Platinum membershipm OR Maple Leaf Club membership OR Star Alliance Gold membership

With plenty of natural light and views overlooking the runway and the rest of the airport, the US Transborder Maple Leaf Lounge offers a quiet moment of solitude. Food, beverages, showers, and seating are first-come, first-self-served.

What we love about it:

• 7,000+ magazines and newspapers available via PressReader App
• Available up to 3 hours before qualifying flight
• Available business centre meeting room
• Cell-free quiet zone
• Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi
• Complimentary food and beverages
• Business centre with desktop PCs and colour printing
• Live news and sports television broadcasts
• Pets allowed in carriers
• Showers with complimentary soap, shampoo, and towels

3. Jetside Lounge

Location: Elevator access via Main Terminal, US Transborder Concourse, near entrance to Pier E, before security

Hours: Monday – Sunday, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Entry requirements: None

Sleek and relaxed, the Jetside Lounge is all about post-flight refreshments. The menu proudly showcases Canadian cuisine like bannock rolls and steelhead trout alongside global offerings such as poké bowls and tiramisu.

Reserve a table at +1 604 248 3281 and give yourself plenty of time to browse the 16-page drink menu.

What we love about it:

• Complimentary 3-hour self-parking at YVR
• Handcrafted cocktails
• Local and seasonal à la carte dining
• Live music daily, 6:30 PM – 10:30 PM

4. Fairmont Gold Lounge

Location: Elevator access via Main Terminal, US Transborder Concourse, near entrance to Pier E, before security

Hours: 24/7

Entry requirements: Fairmont Gold room booking

While not within the airport proper, we can’t omit the sumptuous Fairmont Gold Lounge on the top floor of the Fairmont Vancouver Airport. With premium beverages, personalized concierge services, and views of the runway and mountains, it’s a first-class experience on the ground.

Book online or call +1 604 207 5200.

What we love about it:

• Complimentary continental breakfast, deluxe hot breakfast, evening canapés, and evening desserts
• Complimentary self-serve light snacks and beverages
• Personal concierge service
• Premium drink selection available at the Honour Bar
• YVR priority FasTrack lane access at all 3 concourse security checkpoints

7 tips for getting the most out of an airport lounge

Airport lounges can be a valuable and memorable part of your journey, and it pays to plan and prepare for them like you would the rest of your vacation. To help you out, we’ve created a 7-step guide to taking advantage of airport lounges:

• Research airport lounges in advance so you can find the entrance, enter confidently, and enjoy all the amenities you need.
• Ask the concierge about extras, recommendations, and popular items or services.
• Tour the whole lounge, note what you’d like to do, and set a timer so you don’t miss your flight.
• Put your smartphone away – premium lounges aim to create a relaxing environment full of interesting views and artwork.
• Take a moment to pay attention to your body’s needs and eat, hydrate, sleep, shower, or stretch as needed.
• Make friends with fellow travellers who seem alert and unoccupied.
• Follow lounge etiquette and try to be quiet, tidy, and respectful of fellow travellers. Don’t shove food in your bag, take more space than you need, or bother people who are sleeping, working, or listening to music.

It’s easy to get lost in the Vancouver airport so don’t hesitate to ask for directions at an information kiosk or use the airport’s online interactive map.

What’s your favourite airport lounge?

Forget vacation pictures – we want to know about your experience at the Vancouver International Airport. Did you visit a lounge? What was it like? And would you go again?

FAQ

How do I get into a free lounge at the airport?

If the flight class on your boarding pass doesn’t get you into an airport lounge for free, try checking your wallet for a premium credit card that includes the World Elite Mastercard or Visa Airport Companion program. Some credit cards give you free access while others offer reduced rates.

Is there a place to sleep in the Vancouver airport?

Travellers can nap for free in the Quiet Area in Pier D of the Main Terminal of the Vancouver International Airport, or pay for a room at the Fairmont Vancouver Airport hotel.

Who has access to Maple Leaf lounges?

Air Canada travellers with a Business or First Class boarding pass, a premium credit card, lounge membership, or a paid lounge pass can access the Maple Leaf Lounge.