Kelowna British Columbia, Canada Travel Guide
BC Transit operates Kelowna's public bus system, linking the city and its broader Central Okanagan region. The system has a reliable and affordable travel method between districts and attractions. Buses are clean and well-maintained.
The main transit exchange is the Queensway Transit Exchange in the city center Kelowna, a key location for many routes. Other important hubs include Orchard Park Shopping Centre and the University of British Columbia Okanagan (UBCO) campus. Detailed route maps and schedules are available on the BC Transit website and at major bus stops.
Services are normally open from early morning (around 6 AM) until late evening (around 23:00-midnight), with reduced service on weekends and holidays.
Frequency varies by route. Main routes often have service every 15-30 minutes during peak times. Less popular routes run hourly or less frequently.
Most BC Transit buses are low-floor, designed with ramps for easy boarding and designated seating for wheelchairs, strollers, and other mobility aids.
Hailing on street is less common. Book over the phone (Kelowna Cabs: 250-762-2222) or find at stands.
Metered fares. A lift across town is CAD$15-30. Credit cards and cash accepted. Tip 10-15% customary.
Uber and Lyft operate. Apps show estimated fare, track driver, and allow secure payment.
Make sure of the driver/vehicle details on app. Share trip details with contacts. Stick to licensed options.
Rental options present varied methods for getting around, offering flexibility for different ways of traveling.
Drive on the right. Seatbelts are mandatory. Driving speeds are monitored (50 km/h in cities, 80-100 km/h highway). Right turn on red is permitted unless prohibited.
Generally good. Winter weather (Oct 1-Apr 30) mandate winter tires on most highways. Check DriveBC.ca for current conditions.
Downtown Kelowna offers metered street parking and parkades. Peak summer parking can be challenging and expensive near attractions.
Kelowna has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly selections to luxurious resorts, ensuring a place for every traveler. Discover unique local offerings like winery guesthouses.
Self-catering with kitchens or places like the Delta Grand Okanagan. Lower Mission area for quiet, residential feel.
Spacious & Convenient
Hostels (Kelowna International Hostel) for budget and social opportunities. Mid-range downtown hotels for convenience.
Budget & Accessible
Vacation rentals (condos, apartments that have kitchens). Hotels with extended stay rates (Homewood Suites, Sandman Hotel).
Cost-Effective & Home-like
Always review the deposit and cancellation policies before confirming your booking. Policies vary by property and season, especially with stricter terms during peak times.
For camping, sites book out months in advance via the BC Parks website as soon as booking opens (typically in the spring season for summer dates).
