Richmond Travel Essentials

Richmond, Canada, has a humid continental climate, with average temperatures ranging from 3ºC in winter to 20ºC in summer.

• The rainiest time of the year is between October and May, with an average of 15-20 rainy days per month.
• Snowfall can be expected between December and February.
• June-August is peak tourist season, with hotel and flight prices rising accordingly.
• April-May and September-October are great times to visit. You’ll avoid the peak season crowds, and flight and hotel prices are more affordable. The weather is pleasant, but pack a jumper and a raincoat, just in case.

• Languages: Primary: English; Secondary: Chinese
• Plug types: A and B
• Electricity: 120 V
• Currency: Canadian Dollar (C$)
• International dialling codes: +1 604
• Emergency telephone number: 911

Vancouver International Airport

One of the largest airports in Canada, Vancouver International Airport is the primary airport serving Richmond. It’s located on Sea Island in Richmond, roughly 4 km northwest of the city centre. Vancouver Airport features 3 passenger terminals in which you’ll find a good choice of dining and shopping options as well as facilities including banking and currency exchange services. There are several transfer options to reach Downtown Richmond:

• A taxi takes around 15-20 minutes. Taxi ranks can be found on Level 2 of the Domestic and International Arrivals Area.
• Many Richmond hotels provide free shuttle buses. The pick-up areas are outside the Arrivals Level 2 International Terminal and the Arrivals Level 1 Domestic Terminal.
• The Canada Line rapid transit rail can take you to Downtown Richmond within 15 minutes. Follow the signs marked Canada Line to reach the station. It’s the cheapest way to get to central Richmond.
• Car rental agencies can be found on the ground floor of the airport's multi-storey parking.

If you come by train to Richmond

Pacific Central Station is the main railway station in Vancouver. Served by Via Rail, Amtrak and Rocky Mountaineer lines, it is home to a few dining and shopping options. From here, you can get to Richmond by SkyTrain, bus, taxi or rental car. Whichever mode of transport you choose, you’ll be in Richmond in less than 30 minutes.

Richmond City Centre is rather compact and covers a 3-sq-km area that can easily be explored on foot. Bordered by the Fraser River, you’ll find, within walking distance, attractions and shopping options including Minoru Park, Richmond Olympic Oval and CF Richmond Centre, just to name a few. 

The city centre also hosts a great choice of dining and nightlife options. For longer journeys, you have a good choice of public and private transport services to choose from. 

• TransLink is in charge of public transport in Richmond and neighbouring Vancouver. It operates SkyTrain, bus and SeaBus networks, which cover the entire city.
• A single ticket is valid for up to 90 minutes.
• Day passes are also available.
• Tickets and passes can be purchased at SkyTrain, SeaBus, and Canada Line stations. You’ll also find TransLink tickets and passes at over 30 authorised retailers, including 7-Eleven, Shoppers Drug Mart and London Drugs outlets throughout Richmond.

• Tsawwassen BC Ferry Terminal is roughly 20 km south of Downtown Richmond. From there, you can explore Vancouver Island and the Southern Gulf Islands (Salt Spring, Mayne, Galiano, Penders and Saturna)
• Rates are very affordable.
• You can even travel by car as vehicle ferries are available.

• Taxis can be hailed down on the street in Richmond.
• You can easily find taxi stands outside hotels and near the main attractions and shopping areas.
• You can also directly call popular companies such as Richmond Taxi Ltd. (604-272-1111), Garden City Cabs (604-233-1111) or Kimber Cabs (604-238-8888), just to name a few.
• Most taxis accept fare payment by credit card, but it’s better to ask the driver before you get in.
• It’s common to give a 10-20% tip to the taxi driver.

Chinese New Year

• What: Richmond is home to a large Chinese community that celebrates Chinese New Year in style. Expect cultural performances, lion dances, street parades, family activities and loads of delicious Chinese food.
• When: January or February
• Where: All around Richmond

Steveston Salmon Festival & Richmond Canada Day

• What: The celebration of Canada takes place at Steveston Village, 6 km southwest of Downtown Richmond. Featuring live music, exhibitions, children's activities, BBQs, and fireworks, it’s a great festive event in Richmond.
• When: 1 July
• Where: Steveston Village

Richmond World Festival

• What: Richmond World Festival celebrates the city’s cultural diversity through music, food, fun and sporting activities.
• When: September (Labour Day Weekend)
• Where: Minoru Park