The Tunnel Mountain District surrounds you with stunning Banff National Park wilderness just minutes from city centre. Panoramic viewpoints along the scenic drive showcase the majestic Bow Valley and Rocky Mountain peaks. Hikers will love the accessible trails, including the rewarding Tunnel Mountain Summit with its breathtaking 360-degree vistas. This peaceful mountain retreat offers a perfect balance of nature and comfort. Luxury mountain lodges feature rustic-elegant décor and Canadian cuisine highlighting local specialities. The crisp alpine air and tranquil forest setting create a rejuvenating escape from busy city centre Banff while keeping you close to all attractions.
Discover spectacular mountain beauty in Sulphur Mountain District, where the iconic Banff Gondola whisks visitors to breathtaking Rocky Mountain views. Mineral-rich waters await at historic Banff Upper Hot Springs. Scenic boardwalks connect key attractions through pristine alpine wilderness. This luxury mountain retreat features high-end lodges with spa services and mountain-view dining options. Hike through dense forests and alpine meadows within Banff National Park. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout this natural wonderland just five kilometres from Banff townsite.
City centre Banff is a charming mountain town hub where rustic log buildings house outdoor gear shops and art galleries. Visitors can explore the Whyte Museum or stroll through Central Park with towering peaks as a backdrop. Cascade Mountain creates a dramatic skyline above this pedestrian-friendly core. The walkable streets bustle with travellers enjoying diverse dining options and unique shopping. From the Bow River pathways to nearby hot springs, this gateway to the Canadian Rockies balances tourist amenities with natural beauty.
Banff's Uptown District hums with mountain town charm. The bustling corridor along Banff Avenue features rustic log-facade shops and cosy pubs with glowing windows. Restaurants offer aromatic mountain cuisine on outdoor patios. Cascade Mountain provides a dramatic backdrop to pedestrian plazas filled with street musicians. This walkable core has limited parking but good transit connections. Find everything from casual pubs serving elk and bison to upscale Canadian dining. The area features mountain-inspired architecture with log facades and stone accents. Though commercialized, the vibrant nightlife and mountain views make this district a perfect adventure base.
Banff Centre District perches above town, where world-class arts and pristine wilderness create an inspiring retreat. The prestigious Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity anchors the area with performance halls, sculpture gardens, and panoramic mountain views. Hiking trails begin where buildings end, offering immediate access to Banff National Park's natural beauty. The district delivers a uniquely cultural mountain experience away from city centre crowds. Luxury accommodation and upscale dining options cater to discerning visitors seeking tranquility. Roam bus connections make city centre attractions easily accessible when you're ready to explore beyond this peaceful artistic haven.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Banff
Photo by Banff Lake Louise Tourism
Open Photo by Banff Lake Louise Tourism
Banff Gondola
9.4/10 (7,827 reviews)
Ride the Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain's summit for breathtaking 360-degree views of the Canadian Rockies. Explore the ridgetop boardwalk to Sanson's Peak and dine at Sky Bistro with mountain vistas below.
Upper Hot Springs
8.6/10 (4,824 reviews)
Soak in Canada's highest thermal springs at 1,585 metres, where mineral-rich waters meet panoramic Rocky Mountain views. Arrive early morning for a serene dip in the 40°C waters surrounded by snow-dusted peaks.
Tunnel Mountain
9.0/10 (3,925 reviews)
Tunnel Mountain offers panoramic views of Banff and the Bow Valley after a moderate climb through evergreen forests. This trail delivers stunning vistas year-round, with winter creating a magical snow-covered landscape.
Fairmont Banff Springs Bowling Centre
8.4/10 (1,334 reviews)
Experience Canada's unique 5-pin bowling at Bowl Valley within the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Request the neon blacklight option for a glowing twist on this classic game while enjoying craft cocktails.
Banff Springs Golf Club
8.4/10 (759 reviews)
Stanley Thompson's masterpiece weaves through the Canadian Rockies with dramatic mountain backdrops at every hole. The legendary Devil's Cauldron challenges golfers with its breathtaking par-3 over a glacial lake.
Cave and Basin National Historic Site
8.6/10 (1,677 reviews)
The birthplace of Canada's national parks, this historic site features thermal mineral springs discovered in 1883. Walk through the cave to experience the warm waters that sparked a conservation legacy.
Sulphur Mountain
9.4/10 (2,305 reviews)
Ride the Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain's summit for views of six mountain ranges and the Bow Valley. Explore the Cosmic Ray Station boardwalk or enjoy alpine cuisine at Sky Bistro with stunning Rocky Mountain vistas.
Bow Falls
9.2/10 (2,342 reviews)
This wide, shallow waterfall on the Bow River captivates with its accessible beauty and mountain backdrop. Follow the well-maintained trails for perfect photo opportunities of this iconic Banff National Park landmark.
What to do in Banff
Sunwapta & Athabasca Falls/Abraham Lake, Peyto, Bow Lake
"Great property, they were sold out so we couldn't get an extra pillow or a fan and it was hot. But the property is beautiful, and nicely maintained, front desk very sweet and helpful.
One complaint the restaurant had poor customer service , the manager seemed annoyed , and it wasn't a very friendly experience both times."
"Location was great. Parking was nice. Easy walk to everything. Facility is in need of a refresh. Carpets in our room were torn and room was just tired. Courtyard with sauna and hot tub was nice to have. Included breakfast was great and coffee shop in lobby was a bonus."
"Parking was complicated and we feel that the hotel should have communicated that in more detail before our stay, but it was all good once we worked it out. Parking is directly beneath the hotel in their underground parking (for a fee) or you can park in a parkade close by. The staff were so friendly and very helpful. They booked our tickets for the Banff Gondola for the next day, taking the weather into consideration. Told us where we could pick up the free bus - very clear & easy instructions....
"The staff throughout the hotel were exceptional. Friendly, informed and helpful. In fact, when asking for assistance to find an area of the hotel or a particular place, staff guided us themselves to the location. Very kind. The bar staff was equally professional. Treated us as if we were their “favorite table” in a fully-packed space. We enjoyed our stay greatly."
"Respectful, friendly, helpful front desk staff!
Loved the small touches ex the comp smores station. Good breakfast.
Had hoped the "restaurant" & bar had more full service and food/drink options though.
Property so nicely decorated.
Loved the giant metal pinecones, the fire pits and the nice space to sit outside and eat some takeout or have a drink.
Nice rooms, with balcony, just a little small though. Comfy bed and plenty of comfy pillows! Thank you."
"Close to shops, restaurants. Convenient underground free parking. Helpful reception staff and good sized rooms. We hot a free 3 day bus pass which was really useful for getting to the Lakes and Gondola, plus several of the buses stop right near the hotel."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You can snap up a holiday package to this top destination on Expedia. But how much your holiday to Banff costs will depend on the season, length of stay and hotel choice.
What are the cheapest months to go to Banff?
You can usually find reduced prices and greater availability in January, April and November. Explore our cheap Banff holiday packages and you could get some great off-season discounts.
How many days is enough for Banff?
To fully enjoy a Banff holiday, we recommend staying for 2 days. Divide your time between visiting Banff National Park Information Centre, Bow Falls and other well-known attractions, as well as exploring neighbourhoods like Uptown District and Downtown District. If you've got some time to spare, add a day trip to your Banff holiday itinerary.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Banff?
Banff has everything you need for an amazing break — golfing, hiking and skiing are just the start. Whether you want to check out sights like Banff Gondola and Upper Hot Springs, or take the path less traveled, you'll find plenty to explore on your Banff holiday.
How to find the best Banff package deals?
Use Expedia's handy filters to help you find some tempting Banff package deals. When you begin your search, just set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you're looking to save, plan your trip for midweek, or browse for Banff package deals in the off-season. Switch up your travel dates and you may score even bigger discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's typically best to lock in your holiday package as soon as possible.
Is it cheaper to book a Banff holiday as a package?
Expedia holiday packages are designed to help you keep more cash in your pocket. Bundle your flight, hotel and car rental into one great-value price and enjoy significant savings. You'll generally snag a better deal than booking each component separately. And you'll still enjoy the freedom to create a tailored Banff holiday by choosing your favourite accommodation type, airline and car class.
When to book a holiday package to Banff?
Enjoy incredible discounts by reserving your flights ahead of time with Expedia. If being spontaneous is more your thing, take advantage of our last-minute deals for an impromptu Banff trip.
How to plan a trip to Banff?
Choose your travel dates: What you want to do in Banff and your favourite season can help you decide when to go.
Work out your budget: Ensure you have enough money to cover everything from food and transportation to experiences and flights. Your hotel will probably be the biggest expense during your trip to Banff.
Determine how many days away: Start by listing all the attractions and activities you want to get to in Banff. Then, estimate how long you'll need at each, as well as any travel time.
Bundle your bookings: With your travel dates in order, you can combine your flights, hotels, car rental and more into a customised Banff holiday package.
Book with confidence
Things to do in and around Banff
Shopping
Experience the vibrant shopping scene in Banff, where you can find unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Canmore Mountain Market, located 17.7km away, offering a charming atmosphere with a mix of local goods and artisan crafts, perfect for family and business vibes.
Recreation
Canmore Golf and Curling Club offers a scenic golfing experience amidst stunning mountain views, perfect for those seeking outdoor activity. For relaxation, the Canmore Recreation Centre provides various wellness facilities, while Sunshine Meadows invites you to unwind in its tranquil landscapes, ideal for rejuvenation and serenity.
Adventure
Experience breathtaking views on the Banff Gondola, soaring above stunning landscapes. Hit the slopes at North American Ski Lift, where thrilling descents await. For a scenic adventure, hike the Banff Legacy Trail, surrounded by nature's beauty and fresh mountain air.
Nightlife
In Banff, the nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Visit the Fairmont Banff Springs Bowling Centre for a unique entertainment experience, where you can enjoy bowling in a stunning historic setting. The atmosphere is lively, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the breathtaking outdoors.
Find the best attractions in Banff
Banff, Alberta, is a breathtaking destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Surrounded by majestic mountains and scenic lakes, visitors can explore attractions like the Banff Gondola and the stunning Banff National Park. The local visitor centre provides valuable information to enhance your experience, ensuring a memorable trip filled with natural beauty and exhilarating activities.
Upper Hot Springs: Experience the soothing warmth of natural mineral waters surrounded by stunning mountain views. This outdoor hot spring is perfect for relaxation and wellness, offering a tranquil escape after a day of exploring Banff.
Banff National Park Information Centre: Kick-start your adventure at this visitor centre, where you can gather information on trails, wildlife, and local attractions. It's a family-friendly spot that offers insights into the park's stunning outdoor adventures.
Tunnel Mountain: Embark on a scenic hike up Tunnel Mountain, known for its breathtaking panoramic views of Banff and the surrounding valleys. This outdoor adventure is ideal for those seeking a memorable experience amidst nature.
Best time to go to Banff
The best time to visit Banff is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Banff
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically January, April and November) for more affordable package holidays to Banff.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.