Hotels in Banff, Alberta

Banff Hotels

Crisp clean air, gentle teal waters, towering forests of evergreens and fragrant floral glades – Banff is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque places in the world. Set before the breathtaking backdrop of the snowcapped Canadian Rockies, the National Park’s main settlement is a serene retreat for rejuvenation and a buzzing base for adventure. From spas and fine dining to hiking and skiing, the well-equipped town allows you to explore the wonders of nature at your own convenience – without having to abandon any of the creature comforts.

Things to see

Tours are definitely recommended here. With over 2,500 square miles of grand mountains, peaceful valleys, sprawling woodland, and babbling rivers, Banff National Park is home to a vast collection of natural wonders. Among them you’ll discover the restful Lake Louise, the luscious Sunshine Meadows, and the short, stout, and misty Bow Falls. One must-see is the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, with its steamy thermal springs and emerald green pools. Be sure to take a turn in the Cascades of Time Gardens too. Fluttering with butterflies, the colorful grounds are adorned with 50,000 species of flower, with ponds, pavilions, and walkways all contributing to its enchanting character. If you’re more about conquering nature than admiring it, the National Park is an adrenaline junkie’s playground, hosting some of the best white water rafting and mountain climbing in Canada. For the more composed and curious, the Banff Park Museum displays over 5000 natural history specimens related to the park’s habitats.

Hotels in Banff

Many of the hotels in Banff come in the form of sprawling lodges and manors, often packaged with classical outdoorsy charm. If you like a room with a view, then they don’t get much more impressive than the ones you’ll find here. The luxury accommodation in Banff spares no amenity, with toasty in-room fireplaces, heated pools, lavish spas and sophisticated onsite restaurants. The mid-range hotels come generously appointed too, with some digs providing basic kitchen facilities and others welcoming pets. On the cheaper end of the scale you’ll find a handful of cozy B&Bs and hostels, all offering somewhere to rest your head after a long day’s hike.

Where to stay

Because it isn’t a particularly large town, every hotel in Banff keeps you within walking distance of all the local amenities – and with stunning views to the mountains ever present, you won’t want to travel any other way. Dotted about town you’ll find plenty of bars and restaurants, whilst an eclectic mix of shops sell everything from ski gear to local art. Whilst Banff is very much the tourist town, it still maintains its proud mountain culture and small-town style hospitality. Combined with its mesmerizing scenery, Banff attracts all types of people, from nature lovers and thrill seekers, to artists and casual holiday makers alike.

How to get to Banff

International visitors will most likely touch down at Calgary International Airport. Located 89 miles east of Banff, the airport serves numerous destinations from all over the world, including the United States, Europe, and East Asia. Getting to Banff from the airport couldn’t be easier, with the Banff Airporter bus service shuttling passengers back and forth 12 times a day. Booking is required, so be sure to do so ahead of your flight. Journeys take approximately an hour and a half, but the route is especially scenic. If you’re arriving late at night, other shuttle services, as well as private sedans, also operate frequently.