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Parksville, British Columbia to Nanaimo, British Columbia from $4: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Parksville, Canada
to
Nanaimo, Canada

How to Get from Parksville to Nanaimo: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$4 by busBest price
37 kmDistance
33m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Parksville to Nanaimo with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Vancouver Island Connector
Bus
Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$9-20
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
1h  28m
Estimated price
$4-4
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 37 km
Duration: 33m

See more options

Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$5-8
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$70-85
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Traveling From Parksville to Nanaimo

Your journey from Parksville to Nanaimo showcases the peaceful beach town charm of Parksville against Nanaimo's vibrant urban energy, providing a delightful contrast that enriches your travel experience.

Best Neighbourhoods in Nanaimo

Nanaimo offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct vibe.

Old City Quarter
• Home to historic buildings and trendy shops.
• Vibrant arts scene with galleries and murals.
Commercial Street
• Bustling area filled with eclectic boutiques.
• Offers a variety of local dining options.
South Nanaimo
• Family-friendly with parks and community centers.
• Close to beautiful waterfront trails and views.

Best Times To Visit Nanaimo's Attractions

Timing your visits to Nanaimo's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Nanaimo Harbour
Early mornings offer stunning views with fewer tourists around.
Newcastle Island
Visit during weekdays for a quieter, more relaxed exploration.
Duncan Cranberry Festival
Attending in late September allows you to enjoy festivities fully.

Nanaimo Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Nanaimo experiences a mild coastal climate, with wet winters and warm summers; late spring and early fall are particularly inviting for outdoor activities. Knowing the weather patterns helps you pack appropriately and plan your adventures, ensuring a more enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Nanaimo

Try the fish tacos at The Nest Bistro in Nanaimo; this dish showcases fresh, local seafood and bold flavors that stand out in contrast to Parksville's more laid-back dining options. The vibrant atmosphere and artistic plate presentations elevate your dining experience, making it a culinary highlight of your visit.

Parksville - Nanaimo operators

Explore transport companies operating between Parksville and Nanaimo, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1 866 986 3466
Website
https://viconnector.com/

Bus from Parksville, BC - Community Centre to Nanaimo, BC - Bus Depot

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
$9.78854-19.1478
Website
https://islandlinkbus.com/

Bus from Parksville Shell to Nanaimo, Departure Bay Ferry Terminal

Average Duration
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
604-795-3838
Website
https://bctransit.com/

Bus from Jensen Ave E at McCarter to Woodgrove Centre Exchange Bay D

Average Duration
34m
Estimated price
CA$2-2

Bus from Woodgrove Centre Exchange Bay C to Fitzwilliam at Wesley

Average Duration
48m
Estimated price
CA$2-2

Parksville to Nanaimo: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Parksville and Nanaimo offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus ticket in advance through the Vancouver Island Connector website (islandconnector.com) to secure the best prices, especially during weekends or holidays when the bus may fill up quickly.
• Arrive at the Parksville Community Centre a bit early to enjoy the nearby local café, The Coffee Shop, which offers delicious pastries and coffee to fuel your journey.
• Upon arriving at the Nanaimo Bus Depot, be aware that the terminal connects to various local transit options. Make sure to check the BC Transit website (bctransit.com) for schedules if you plan to explore further or head to your next destination.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Parksville to Nanaimo.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Parksville and Nanaimo in British Columbia is approximately 32.2 km. The road distance is slightly longer at 37.2 km. Typically, it takes around 30 minutes to travel between the two cities by car. Alternatively, if you choose to take the bus, the travel time is usually around 45 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Parksville to Nanaimo is taking the line 91 bus and line 40 bus, which costs C$5 and takes approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes. This is a convenient option for travelers on a budget. However, for those looking for a quicker option, taking a taxi is the most time-efficient choice, with a travel time of around 33 minutes, but at a higher cost of approximately C$87-C$114.
The prices of a bus ticket from Nanaimo to Parksville can range from C$12 to C$25, depending on the specific bus company and the type of ticket purchased.
To travel from Parksville to Nanaimo without using public transportation, you can drive your own car or use a taxi or ride-sharing service. The distance between the two cities is 37.0 km, and it typically takes about 33 minutes to drive from Parksville to Nanaimo. Traveling by car offers flexibility with departure times and the convenience of direct transportation. Additionally, the prices for using a car service to get from Parksville to Nanaimo can range from C$7 to C$11, depending on the service provider and any additional charges.
The best way to travel from Parksville to Nanaimo without a car is by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 40 minutes and the fares range from C$12 to C$25.
Yes, there is a direct link between Parksville and Nanaimo. Vancouver Island Connector operates a bus service that departs from Parksville - Community Centre and arrives at Nanaimo - Bus Depot. The bus service runs three times a day and operates every day. The journey typically takes approximately 40 minutes.
Near Nanaimo there are numerous options for accommodation with over 98 hotels available. Prices for hotels in the area start at C$56 per night.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Parksville to Nanaimo by bicycle.