Top reasons to visit Banff
- Breathtaking Scenery: Experience the stunning landscapes of Banff National Park, featuring majestic mountains and picturesque views.
- Outdoor Adventures: Engage in thrilling activities such as skiing at Banff Sunshine and exploring scenic trails.
- Banff Gondola: Ascend the iconic gondola for panoramic vistas that showcase the beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
- Charming Downtown: Stroll along Banff Avenue, lined with delightful shops and restaurants, capturing the essence of this resort town.
- Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in natural hot springs, offering a perfect way to relax after a day of adventure.
Find great hotels in Banff
Discover the enchanting charm of Banff, Alberta, where a variety of accommodation options await to enhance your holiday experience. From luxurious resorts to cosy inns, there’s something for every traveller. Whether you seek adventure or a pet-friendly retreat, Banff’s hotels offer unique services, including hot spring-themed stays. Explore the renowned Fairmont Banff Springs and read reviews to find the perfect base for your alpine adventure.
- Moose Hotel And Suites: Nestled in the heart of Banff, the Moose Hotel And Suites offers a 3.5-star experience with a guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. This hotel embraces a hot spring theme, making it ideal for adventure seekers and pet owners alike. Guests can enjoy access to nearby natural hot springs, while the property offers a variety of outdoor activities such as rafting, snowshoeing, and kayaking. With a pet-friendly policy, the hotel accommodates dogs and cats, providing essential amenities such as food and water bowls. The blend of adventure and relaxation creates a unique atmosphere for those looking to explore the stunning Canadian Rockies.
- The Fox Hotel and Suites: The Fox Hotel and Suites presents a welcoming environment for travellers seeking a blend of adventure and comfort, rated at 3.5 stars with an 8.6 out of 10 guest rating. This hotel also features a hot spring theme, conveniently located near natural hot springs. A variety of activities await guests, including snow tubing, canoeing, and ice skating. The pet-friendly policy includes facilities for pets, ensuring a hassle-free stay for animal lovers. With its adventurous spirit and convenient amenities, The Fox Hotel and Suites is a fantastic choice for families and individuals alike.
- Banff Rocky Mountain Resort: With a 3-star rating and an 8.0 out of 10 guest rating, the Banff Rocky Mountain Resort is perfect for families and adventure enthusiasts. The property, which has a hot spring theme, is located near natural hot springs and offers a range of outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking, and snowboarding. Family-friendly amenities include an arcade game room and a shared playground, making it an excellent option for those travelling with children. The resort's focus on family adventures and comfort ensures a memorable experience in the breathtaking Banff region.
Where to stay in Banff
For an unforgettable escape, Banff offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and breathtaking scenery. Stroll along Banff Avenue, where charming shops and restaurants await, or explore the vibrant Midtown Banff for local experiences. Don’t miss the iconic downtown area, providing easy access to the wonders of this resort town, including stunning mountain vistas and nature trails that promise excitement and tranquillity in equal measure.
- Downtown District: Nestled in the heart of Banff, the Downtown District buzzes with activity year-round. Peak visitor numbers from July to September bring a lively atmosphere, while quieter months like January, April, and November still offer a warm welcome. This area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with easy access to recreational areas, ski fields, and breathtaking scenery. Local highlights include the stunning Banff National Park, where nature lovers can explore diverse landscapes and wildlife. Don’t miss the charming shops, restaurants, and cafés that line the streets, providing a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
- Uptown District: Just a stone's throw from the Downtown District, the Uptown District offers a unique blend of adventure and tranquillity. Similar to its neighbour, it attracts visitors year-round, with peak season occurring from July to September. This neighbourhood is perfect for those seeking outdoor activities, with proximity to ski fields and recreational areas. The captivating views of the surrounding mountains are a major draw, and the nearby national parks and nature reserves offer ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation. Experience the local culture through its inviting cafés and shops, making it an ideal stop for any traveller.
- Tunnel Mountain District: A short distance from Banff's bustling centre, the Tunnel Mountain District provides a serene escape with its stunning vistas and outdoor activities. Visitor numbers remain steady throughout the year, peaking from July to September, making it a popular spot for both adventurers and those seeking peaceful retreats. This neighbourhood is known for its recreational areas and ski fields, and its proximity to the national parks and nature reserves makes it an adventurer's paradise. Whether you're hiking, skiing, or simply soaking in the views, Tunnel Mountain District is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Things to do in Banff
Shopping
In the heart of Banff, you’ll discover charming boutiques like the Banff Trading Post for local souvenirs and the Bear Street Merchants for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Canmore Nordic Centre for outdoor gear and local artisan shops.
Recreation
In Banff, the Spa at the Fairmont Banff Springs offers rejuvenating treatments amid breathtaking mountain views. Nearby, the Banff Upper Hot Springs provide a relaxing soak in natural thermal waters, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploration in the stunning Canadian Rockies.
Adventure
The Banff Gondola offers breathtaking views as you ascend Sulphur Mountain, immersing you in stunning alpine scenery. Enjoy the exhilarating ride and explore hiking trails at the summit, where you can capture panoramic vistas of Banff National Park and its majestic peaks.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Dancing Sasquatch, where you can dance to lively beats and meet fellow travellers. For a more relaxed atmosphere, unwind at the Banff Ave Brewing Co., sampling local craft beers while enjoying the mountain views.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Banff
To save money during your visit to Banff, take advantage of the free entry to the national park and explore activities like Tunnel Mountain, Sulphur Mountain, and Vermilion Lakes. For affordable transport, consider using the local bus system or renting a bicycle. Book your accommodation in the cheaper months of January, April, or November, ideally one month in advance, and aim for a Thursday stay for the best rates. Additionally, check Expedia for last-minute deals and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for potential savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing in Banff is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay in Banff are January, April and November, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Banff is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Banff is Thursday. The most expensive day to stay in Banff is Sunday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your Banff hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Banff
Banff is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and adventure. Popular attractions include the breathtaking mountains, the scenic cable car gondola, and relaxing hot springs. Visitors can explore Banff National Park, experience the cultural offerings at the Banff Centre, enjoy a mountain getaway, visit the historic Banff Springs Hotel, and ski at Banff Sunshine. There’s no shortage of memorable experiences in this picturesque Canadian town.
- Tunnel Mountain: A charming hike leads you to the summit of Tunnel Mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Banff and the surrounding landscapes. Its accessible trails are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, providing a mix of adventure, stunning scenery, and a chance to connect with nature.
- Banff Gondola: Experience a thrilling ascent on the Banff Gondola, where you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains. This family-friendly attraction combines adventure and awe-inspiring scenery, making it a delightful way to observe the natural beauty of Banff from above.
- Upper Hot Springs: Unwind in the soothing waters of the Upper Hot Springs, nestled amid stunning mountain vistas. This serene retreat offers wellness and relaxation, allowing visitors to enjoy the therapeutic benefits of natural hot springs in a peaceful outdoor setting.
Best time to go to Banff
The best time to visit Banff can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Banff falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Banff falls in December, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Banff
Flying into Banff is convenient via Calgary International Airport (YYC), situated 109.4km away. Notable hotels close to the airport include the 4-star Hotel 11, and Acclaim Hotel By CLIQUE, both approximately 1.6km from YYC. Both hotels offer easy access to the airport. For those seeking proximity, the Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel is a mere 322m away, providing direct airport access. With a variety of airlines servicing YYC, your journey to the stunning landscapes of Banff can begin smoothly from these nearby accommodations.