Private car transfer
from Vancouver to Seattle

Yet, Seattle is another destination we know outdoor lovers must visit at least once in their lifetime. This US city might not have the best rep with its somewhat dreary weather, but there is no shortage of things to see and do no matter when you visit. Known as the Emerald City, Seattle is famed for its lush, evergreen forests, sparkling metropolis, diverse and laid-back neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks.

It also has a fairly enticing culinary and art scene and is home to some of the best coffee shops in the world! So, who wouldn't want to book a ride from Vancouver to Seattle and begin exploring?

Before Seattle became a city, it belonged to the Coast Salish peoples – specifically the Duwamish Tribes and the Suquamish. These tribes lived in the local region for thousands of years before the arrival of the Europeans and the creation of Seattle. The city underwent immense growth over the centuries to become the metropolis that it is today.

Now, Seattle is a distinct city with diverse urban districts. When visiting, you can explore the neighborhoods near the Duwamish Waterway at the southwest end of the city center, which is filled with industrial character. You'll see everything from low-income houses and wharves to cranes and railyards. Then there are the other neighborhoods in the city that showcase the opulence wrought by Seattle's booming technology sector.

Besides neighborhood hopping, you should expect to enjoy a bustling city when you visit Seattle. Its waters are filled with oceangoing ships, its rail lines are lined with transcontinental freighters, and its skies are filled with every type of aircraft. It also has large arenas, famed sporting teams, double-story bookshops, dozens of galleries and museums, and countless public art adornments around the city. Ultimately, the city emphasizes the outdoors, sports, literature, art, and cultural activities, so you won't find yourself bored.

The best way to get around is by car

Some might say that public transportation is the best way to get around Seattle, but this is not often the case. In actuality, the easiest way to not only travel around Seattle but also get to this city, especially from places like Vancouver, is by car.

There are different car options you could use. For example, you can hire a rental car or take a taxi, but the costs will add up quickly. This is why we recommend traveling by private car service Daytrip. This door-to-door car service is affordable, with prices from Vancouver to Seattle costing as little as $217. Once you get to Seattle, you can look into rental or local rideshare services, as you would have saved on the biggest part of the journey, and can conveniently return your rental right in Seattle.

Don't forget to sightsee along the way

The trip from Vancouver to Seattle is fraught with sightseeing stops, so it would be remiss of you not to stop and visit the local attractions and landmarks you're set to pass by. For example, you can enjoy a short hike at Mount Erie Park to take in panoramic views or hike less than a mile to take a few photos of the breathtaking Snoqualmie Falls.

From Vancouver to Seattle by bus

Surprisingly, traveling from Vancouver to Seattle by bus is not the cheapest way to travel between these two cities, but it is still affordable. On average, tickets cost between $14 and $60 per person each way.

Multiple bus lines offer trips between the two cities, including Greyhound USA, Flixbus USA, Amtrak, and Quick Shuttle. Greyhound USA is the most expensive of the three, and Flixbus USA is the most affordable. In addition, these bus lines offer multiple trips daily. The average trip length is between 3 hours 45 minutes and 4.5 hours.

However, it's important to note that the bus might not be the most comfortable option and you won't get to sightsee, which is also the case with flights.

From Vancouver to Seattle by train

The cheapest way to travel from Vancouver to Seattle is by train, with a ticket costing as little as $6. However, some tickets can cost up to $95, so be careful to shop around when booking transportation.

Amtrak is the only train line offering trips from Vancouver to Seattle, and only two trips are offered daily—one in the early morning and one in the evening. It's also worth noting that the trip will take about four hours and 25 minutes, but you will get to see some of the scenery as you travel through Bellingham, Mt Vernon, and Arlington.

Flight from Vancouver to Seattle

Those with bigger budgets and limited time can consider flying from Vancouver to Seattle. Many flights are offered daily, but Harbour Air is usually the least expensive, with tickets costing an average of $220.

Once you've booked a flight, you will need to get to Vancouver Harbour Airport, and from there, you will take a one-hour and five-minute flight before landing in Seattle – Lake Union. Although the flight is fast, you must account for travel time to and from the respective airports, as well as the 2 hours needed for check-in and security at the airport, and extra time for customs. All of this combined makes flying one of the slowest travel options.

Discovery Park

If you need a lush urban respite, visit Discovery Park. This 534-acre park is set on the beautifully serene shores of Puget Sound in Seattle's Magnolia neighborhood. It is the largest park in the city and offers 12 miles of walking trails that lead to tidal beaches, coastal bluffs, wooded groves, and picturesque meadows.

Pike Place Market

There is no denying that Pike Place Market is one of Emerald City's most iconic destinations. This century-old public market houses numerous shops and stalls for purveyors, farmers, restaurants, and artisans. It can be found overlooking the stunning Elliott Bay waterfront, and if you plan to visit, be prepared for the hustle and bustle, from locals selling fresh seafood and flowers to patrons lining up for a bite to eat at one of the gourmet food stalls.

Hot Tub Boats

For a unique experience, book a private hot tub boat to motor around Lake Union and take in the many stunning sights. Hot tub boats are perfect for groups of friends or family traveling together. They come equipped with Bluetooth speakers, spacious seating, and placeholders for your cooler, food, and drinks - everything you need for a day on the water!

Space Needle

You can't visit Seattle without seeing the Space Needle. It is one of the city's—and America's—most legendary landmarks. Built in 1962 for the extravagant World's Fair, it was designed as a futuristic observation tower.

Nowadays, it is the most prominent building in Seattle's skyline, and you can take an elevator to the top to see unparalleled 360-degree views of the area. There is also an open-air deck level and an enclosed view level with a glass floor, so if you're brave enough, why not explore both?

Most travelers enjoy visiting Seattle from September to October when the weather is a little less rainy, and there is more sunshine. Unfortunately, although this is one of the best times of year to visit, you should expect higher room rates and less availability.

In addition, although traveling in the winter to avoid crowds and high seasonal rates, it's not advisable if you're not content to put up with often truly miserable weather. But if you do not mind the rain and gray skies, pack a raincoat and an umbrella and book with Daytrip!