How to Get to Kelowna from Vancouver: A Stress-Free Journey

Planning a trip to the Okanagan? Here’s how to get to Kelowna from Vancouver without overthinking it. Kelowna’s wine, lake views, and slower pace are calling—but the options to get there aren’t always clear.

Is it better to fly? Drive? Is there even a bus that goes to Kelowna from Vancouver?

Stick around—I’ve done this trip more than a few times, and I’ll break down what’s fast, what’s cheap, and what’s worth your time.

🗺️ How to Get to Kelowna from Vancouver

You’ve got three solid ways to get from Vancouver to Kelowna.

Each one depends on your priorities—time, budget, or how much you’re willing to deal with other humans.

• 🚗 Drive it yourself: Flexible and scenic, from $80-100 one way.
• ✈️ Fly direct: The fastest way there, tickets starting from $100 return.
• 🚐 Take the Vancouver to Kelowna bus: Cheaper than flying, from $60

🌎 Where is Kelowna?

Kelowna sits in the heart of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, about 390 km east of Vancouver. The route between them crosses the Coast Mountains and Thompson Plateau, offering up a mix of towering peaks, sweeping valleys, and high mountain passes.

The main drive—via the Coquihalla Highway (Hwy 5)—takes you over elevations nearing 1,200 metres, which means you can start in sunny Vancouver and hit snow, rain, or thick fog by the time you reach the summit.

The weather shifts fast here, especially in the shoulder seasons, so it’s wise to check conditions and pack accordingly.

🧐 Looking to explore the region further? Check out our article on the ultimate Vancouver to Okanagan road trip.

🚗 Driving from Vancouver to Kelowna

🕒 Time to destination: 4.5 to 5.5 hours | 💰 Average cost: $75 (one-way) | 👉 Directions with Google Maps

A good fit for road trippers, families, or folks who like control. No schedules, no lines.

I’ve done this drive more times than I can count. The Coquihalla (Hwy 5) is straight-up beautiful—just don’t do it in a snowstorm unless you’ve got winter tires and a strong sense of adventure.

🚙 Wanting to spice up your drive? check out our guide to a Vancouver to Kelowna road trip.

Vancouver Car Rental

No car? No problem. Renting a vehicle in Vancouver is super simple and perfect for road-tripping through BC.

Whether you’re looking for something fuel-efficient or a comfy SUV with room for gear, Rentalcars.com makes it easy to compare deals and book in advance.

Tips for Driving the Coquihalla

• ❄️ Check highway conditions at the Drive BC website before you go.
• ⛽ Fill up in Hope before the long stretch. There are no services between Hope and Merritt.
• 🚙 Keep a winter emergency kit or first aid kit (just in case).
• 📵 Cell service can be spotty—download maps offline

✈️ Flying to Kelowna

🕒 Time to destination: 1 hour flight (+ airport time) | 💰 Average cost: About $100–$180 | 🎟️ Book Flights

Best for people short on time or allergic to road trips.

Flying from YVR to Kelowna takes about an hour. Add an hour for check-in, and you’re still beating traffic. I did it last summer when I had 36 hours to see family and couldn’t waste a minute.

Several airlines offer direct service from Vancouver to Kelowna, including Air Canada, WestJet, Flair Airlines, and Pacific Coastal. Flights run multiple times per day, so you’re rarely stuck without options.

🚐 Taking the Vancouver to Kelowna Bus

🕒 Time to destination: Around 6 to 7 hours | 💰 Average cost: About $60–$90 | 🎟️ Book Tickets

A good option if you’re budget-conscious or hate driving. Also works if you’re coming from downtown without a car.

I took the Vancouver to Kelowna bus once during fire season. No regrets, except for the guy who snored like a tractor. Bring headphones. And snacks.

There are two providers offering transport from Downtown Vancouver—neither of which is direct.

The services aren’t interchangeable, so I’ll do a quick overview below:

Ebus

Average Price: $100 | Duration: 5 hours 30 mins – 6 hours

Ebus offers multiple daily departures, onboard Wi-Fi, reclining seats, and more consistent scheduling. It picks up from Pacific Central Station in downtown Vancouver or Guildford Recreation Centre in Surrey.

There’ll be four additional stops (Abbotsford Airport, Chilliwack, Hope, and Merritt) before you’re dropped off at one of two Kelowna area stops (West Kelowna or Downtown Kelowna).

You’ll have the option of two daily departures (in each direction). Generally, Ebus is faster, as it makes fewer stops—though you’ll pay a slight premium.

Rider Express

Average Price: $75 | Duration: 9 hours

Rider Express is usually cheaper but has fewer departures and more basic service. It’s best for budget travellers who just want to get from A to B as cheaply as possible.

The bus also leaves from Pacific Central Station, but makes eight stops on its way to Salmon Arm. From here, you’ll have to change buses and jump on the bus to Kelowna, which has an additional four stops before dropping you off at a Petro Canada in downtown Kelowna.

All of these additional stops, plus the change of buses, add about 3-4 hours to the trip. So for me, this is last resort kind of stuff.

Quick Comparison:
Ebus is a bit pricier but faster, more comfortable, and more frequent. Rider Express is the more budget-focused, no-frills choice, stopping at virtually every whistle stop along the way.

Most importantly, Ebus makes fewer stops, meaning you’ll reach your destination 3-4 hours earlier. So, despite the price difference, Ebus is my recommended provider. To compare rates, click the button below:

👀 Looking to explore the province by bus? Check out our guides to the Downtown to Whistler Bus and the Vancouver to Victoria Bus.

Okanagan Wine Tours

Uncork the Okanagan: Book Your Wine Tasting Today from $150.

Discover Your New Favourite Wine

🤔 What is the Best Way to Get to Kelowna from Vancouver?

Method	Trip Duration	Price
Driving to Kelowna	4.5–5.5 hours	~$60-$80 (gas, one-way)
Flights	1 hour (plus airport time)	~$100–$180 (return)
Kelowna Bus	5.5–10 hours	~$60–$120 (one-way)

Each travel method has its own perks depending on how you like to move:

• Driving is ideal for road trippers, families, and people who want the freedom to stop along the way. It’s scenic, flexible, and usually the most cost-effective for groups.
• Flying is best for time-crunched travellers, business trips, or quick weekend escapes. You’ll spend less time in transit, but more at the airport. All in all, the prices are pretty reasonable compared to the bus.
• Taking the bus works for budget-conscious folks, solo travellers, or anyone without access to a car. It’s slower but affordable and requires zero planning beyond booking a ticket.

Still not sure? If you’re chasing views and flexibility, drive. If speed’s your thing, hop on a flight. And if saving cash is the goal, the bus has your back.

⏱️ Don’t have the time for a trip to the Okanagan? Check out our list of the 15 best Vancouver day trips for a choice of destinations closer to home.

📋 Top Things to Do in Kelowna

If you’re looking to fill out your Okanagan itinerary, I’ve got an article on the top things to do in Kelowna that you can check out. You can find a few of the highlights below:

• 🍷 Go wine tasting in the Okanagan Valley
• 🏞️ Hike Knox Mountain for views of Okanagan Lake
• 🚲 Cycle the Kettle Valley Rail Trail
• 🌊 Hit the beach or rent a paddleboard
• 🍒 Visit during cherry season (mid-July!)
• ⛷️ Visit the nearby Big White Ski Resort to hit the slopes

Kelowna draws visitors for its lakeside lifestyle, laid-back vibe, and sunny weather. It’s a sweet spot for both outdoor lovers and foodies—and with everything from orchards to vineyards and craft breweries, it’s hard to run out of reasons to stay awhile.

So, hopefully, I’ve found a way to get you between Vancouver and Kelowna on budget and on time. That way, we’ll have you enjoying the lake and sipping the wine as soon as possible.

🚤 Looking to enjoy the lake life further? Take a quick day trip to Penticton to relax on Skaha Lake and sip your way through the Naramata Bench.

How to Get to Kelowna from Vancouver FAQ

Is it better to drive or fly from Vancouver to Kelowna?
Driving gives you flexibility and views. Flying saves time. I pick based on how long I’m staying.

How long is the drive from Vancouver to Kelowna?
It takes about 4.5 to 5.5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Is there a Kelowna bus from Vancouver?
Yes. Companies like Ebus and Rider Express offer services. It’s reliable and cheaper than flying.

How much is a bus ticket from Vancouver to Kelowna?
You’ll pay around $60–$100 CAD, depending on when you book and which company you choose.

Can I get to Kelowna from Vancouver without a car?
Yes. You can fly, take a bus, or find a rideshare through Poparide.

What’s the best way to get to the Okanagan from Vancouver?
If you want the fastest route, fly. If you want to see the scenery, drive.