BANFF

Banff is one of the most beautiful national parks in Canada. It boasts breathtaking mountain scenery, epic hiking trails, and picturesque camping grounds and lodges.It’s the perfect getaway from the USA if you’re craving a Swiss-style skiing vacation, but don’t want to fly across the Atlantic. Whether you’re looking to re-connect with nature, up your photography game or canoe down the pristine Lake Louise, Banff is an absolute dream!Here is my ultimate guide to Banff National Park!

WHAT TO EXPECT IN BANFF

Currency: The official currency used is the Canadian dollar. However, it’s a good idea to make sure your credit card is authorized for overseas purchases as some restaurants in Banff only accept credit cards.

Climate: The weather in Banff is extreme. In the winters, the icy wind can make the temperature feel much colder than the thermometer reads. It’s not uncommon for snow to arrive at any time of the year or for warm chinook winds to bring in summer temperatures between the colder months of January to March.

Peak Season: The summer months are peak season in Banff. From June to August, the lakes are at their best and the weather is perfect for all of the outdoor activities. Book your hotel in advance to avoid the rush and look for one that will give you easy access to the hiking and biking trails.

Best Time to Visit: If you’re heading to Banff for a skiing vacation, the best time to visit is between December and March. But if you’re hoping to see top sites like Moraine Lake, plan your trip for the summer months when the roads are clear and the ice has melted.

GETTING AROUND BANFF

Car: Hire a car to explore Banff. It’s the best way to see the national park and explore far to reach spots. Just keep in mind that you will have to purchase a Park Pass to enter Banff for $9.80 CAD.

Bike: Hire a bike from your hotel or in town for $30 CAD per day. Make your way down Banff’s scenic trails and stop by the Hoodoo Lookout, Vermilion Lakes and cycle the Sundance Canyon Access Road.

Bus: Banff has a public bus service that runs to all the main attractions in town. You can also catch bus Route 6 to explore sights further afield like Cascade Ponds and Lake Minnewanka. You can also get a shuttle pass for the day for $5 CAD.

TRAVEL TIPBanff has high UV ratings all year round. Make sure you pack plenty of sunscreen and keep your skin protected with sunglasses and a hat when hiking.

WHERE TO STAY

WHERE TO EAT

WHAT TO DO

FAIRMONT BANFF SPRINGS

Located in the heart of Banff, this luxury hotel offers a championship golf course, fishing, river rafting, horseback riding, and more. It’s been coined as “The Castle in the Rockies” due to its incredible exterior. There are 764 cozy rooms and suites, some offering sweeping views of the Alberta mountains.

Location: Banff, Alberta
Accommodation: Scenic, Luxury
Price: $$$$

FAIRMONT LAKE LOUISE

Want to wake up to incredible views of Banff National Park? Book a stay a Fairmont Lake Louise. It’s located right on the lake, and the best rooms look out onto the tranquil turquoise water. When you add in all the extra amenities and luxury furnishings, it’s not hard to see why Fairmont is considered one of the top hotels in Canada.

Location: Banff, Alberta
Accommodation: Scenic, Luxury
Price: $$$$

FOX HOTEL AND SUITES

Ever wanted to wake up inside a cave with a basin themed hot pool? That’s what you can expect from Fox Hotel and Suites. Besides your incredible room, you’re treated to a delicious complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, roam bus passes and bike rentals. The hotel will even spoil your pets with special treats, toys and a comfy bed.

Location: Banff, Alberta
Accommodation: Pet-friendly, Mid-range
Price: $$$

STONERIDGE MOUNTAIN RESORT

Tucked away in the mountains, this luxurious ski resort is an excellent option for traveling families. It boasts a library of board games, movies, a hot tub, and an outdoor pool. If you’re getting cabin fever, you can book a helicopter flight for two, or spend the day working on your golf handicap. Stoneridge also offers US travelers a 5% discount – another fantastic reason to book a Banff National Park getaway!

Location: Banff, Alberta
Accommodation: Family-friendly, Mid-range
Price: $$$

RIMROCK RESORT

The Rimrock Resort is a AAA/CAA Four Diamond resort located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. There are 343 guest rooms, two restaurants, two lounges, a coffee shop, and a luxury spa. It offers some of the best views in Banff National Park!

Location: Banff, Alberta
Accommodation: Scenic, Luxury
Price: $$

AIRBNB

Airbnb is one of my favorite options when traveling. You find beautiful homes at extremely affordable prices. Book a cabin near Lake Louise that can house up to 8 people for as low as $35 a night. VRBO is a bit more expensive, with stays starting around $100 a night. But the price tag is worth it when you can wind down in luxury condos with heated pools and hot tubs.

Location: Banff, Alberta
Accommodation: Affordable, Cozy
Price: $$BACK TO TOP

SHOP MY STYLE ESSENTIALS FOR CANADA!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

GETTING TO BANFF

Banff National Park is located along the TransCanada Highway, about 90 minutes outside of Calgary. The easiest way to get there is to fly into Calgary International Airport.

If you want to explore Banff at your own pace, hire a car at the airport. It’s the easiest way to get around and see everything on your list.

The Banff Airporter shuttle departs about every hour from the airport and costs $66.99 CAD per person. There are Greyhound buses that leave the Calgary Greyhound Bus Terminal three times a day. You’ll get dropped off a few blocks from the center of town at the Banff KWT Bus Terminal.