Tourist Guide

Getting Around

Ferry to Vancouver Island
The B.C. Ferry terminal is about 20 minutes from downtown Richmond with sailings to Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Regular daily sailings to Swartz Bay (Victoria) leave the Port of Tsawwassen every two hours on the odd hour with more frequent sailings during summer months and holidays. Daily sailings are also available on the Mid-Island Express from Tsawwassen to Nanaimo. Advance reservations can be made for an additional fee. Paid parking is also available if you want to leave your vehicle at the Ferry Terminal on the mainland.

Visit BC Ferries or call 1-888-223-3779 for more information.

The Airport

Located on Richmond's second largest island, Sea Island, the Vancouver International Airport is less than 10t minutes away from downtown Richmond and is easily accessible by public transit, hotel shuttle, taxi and limousine services. Visitors on flights originating in Vancouver must pay a small departure fee before entering security gates. For more information, visit Vancouver International Airport Authority (YVR).

Car Rental

All major car rental companies have locations at the airport. Regular shuttles are available to and from arrival and departure gates. Several car rental companies also operate in Richmond City Centre.

Cycling to the Other Side

Cyclists are restricted from travelling through the George Massey Tunnel. A free shuttle service is available for cyclists wishing to travel across the tunnel. For more information, see the Cycling Routes and Maps.

Driving and Bike Safety

B.C.'s driving laws are consistent with those of other provinces and most U.S. states. Provincial law requires that all passengers wear seat belts; infant restraints must secure children under five years old and motorcyclists and bicyclists must wear helmets. To ensure your safety and that of others, B.C. strictly enforces its impaired driving law. If involved in an accident with a B.C. licensed and registered vehicle, call 604-520-8222.

Services for People with Disabilities

Special parking spaces are provided throughout Richmond. Temporary handicapped parking permits are available at City Hall. Services are also available for persons who are hearing or speech impaired. The City of Richmond also offers Special Needs Assistance to enable people with disabilities to enjoy and participate in a variety of activities. Call 604-276-4107 for further information.

Wheelchair Accessible transportation can be arranged through Richmond Cabs at 604-272-1111 or Kimber Cabs at 604-238-8888. 

If you are a HandyDART customer from another jurisdiction, HandyDART transportation can be arranged well in advance of travel. Call 604-575-6600 for HandyDART information. Call 778-375-7665 for general information on accessible transit or learn more about Transit Accessibility on the TransLink website.

Public Transportation
The Coast Mountain Bus Company services operate throughout Richmond and Greater Vancouver. Call 604-521-0400 for routes and schedules or visit Coast Mountain Bus Company.