Explore Banff

Canada, North America

Calendar

5/12 5/13 5/14 5/15 5/16 5/17 5/18

Day 1: Sat, May 12
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 2: Sun, May 13
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 3: Mon, May 14
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 4: Tue, May 15
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 5: Wed, May 16
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 6: Thu, May 17
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 7: Fri, May 18
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

About Banff

Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff is a picturesque town surrounded by stunning mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, and vast national parks. One of the top attractions in Banff is the breathtaking Banff National Park, which offers countless opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure. Visitors can hike to iconic spots like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, take a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway, or relax in the warm wa ...View More

Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff is a picturesque town surrounded by stunning mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, and vast national parks. One of the top attractions in Banff is the breathtaking Banff National Park, which offers countless opportunities for outdoor exploration and adventure. Visitors can hike to iconic spots like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, take a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway, or relax in the warm wa ...View More

Popular Destinations

  • Banff National Park
  • Lake Louise Village
  • Canmore
  • Sunshine Village
  • Tunnel Mountain Village
  • Banff Avenue
  • Johnston Canyon
  • Bow Valley Parkway
  • Banff Upper Hot Springs
  • Lake Minnewanka
  • Norquay

Banff National Park

Established in 1885 as Canada’s first national park, Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic destinations in the Canadian Rockies. It boasts breathtaking mountain landscapes, turquoise glacial lakes, and abundant wildlife. Ideal for adventurers, nature lovers, and photographers.

Known For

Exploring world-famous attractions like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, known for their vibrant turquoise waters.

Hiking scenic trails such as the Plain of Six Glaciers and Johnston Canyon.

Spotting wildlife like elk, bears, and mountain goats in their natural habitats.

Relaxing in the soothing waters of the Banff Upper Hot Springs.

Ski resorts such as Sunshine Village and Norquay.

A majestic and diverse area blending unparalleled natural beauty with outdoor adventure.

Lake Louise Village

Nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, Lake Louise Village serves as the gateway to the stunning Lake Louise and its surrounding wilderness. This small village offers convenient amenities and access to iconic alpine experiences. Ideal for hikers, skiers, and serenity seekers.

Known For

Visiting the famous Lake Louise and taking a canoe out on its crystal-clear waters.

Hiking the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail for breathtaking views and a refreshing tea break.

Enjoying world-class skiing and snowboarding at the Lake Louise Ski Resort.

Relaxing at charming cafes or browsing local shops for souvenirs.

Shopping, dining, and visitor information at Samson Mall.

Canmore

Located just outside Banff National Park, Canmore is a lively mountain town offering outdoor recreation, dining, and a less-crowded alternative to Banff. Ideal for adventurers, food lovers, and families.

Known For

Scenic hiking and biking trails like Grassi Lakes Trail and Ha Ling Peak.

Thriving local arts scene at the Canmore Art Guild Gallery.

Dining and shopping in the charming downtown district.

Canoeing, climbing, and exploring stunning Quarry Lake.

Stunning views of the Three Sisters Mountains.

Proximity to Canmore Nordic Centre.

A vibrant town with a mix of outdoor adventures and urban comforts.

Sunshine Village

Perched high in the Canadian Rockies, Sunshine Village is a premier mountain resort offering year-round adventure. Known for its world-class skiing in winter and stunning wildflower meadows in summer, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Ideal for skiers, hikers, and mountain lovers.

Known For

Skiing or snowboarding on pristine powder across diverse terrain in winter.

Hiking the Sunshine Meadows trails, offering breathtaking alpine views and vibrant wildflowers.

Taking a scenic gondola ride with sweeping vistas of the Rockies.

Staying at the Sunshine Mountain Lodge, the only ski-in, ski-out accommodation in Banff National Park.

A dynamic and picturesque area blending high-altitude adventure with natural beauty.

Tunnel Mountain Village

Located near the town of Banff, Tunnel Mountain Village offers a tranquil base surrounded by forested landscapes and panoramic views. Known for its excellent camping facilities, it’s perfect for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat. Ideal for campers, hikers, and families.

Known For

Camping under the stars at Tunnel Mountain Campgrounds, equipped with modern amenities.

Hiking the Tunnel Mountain Trail, a short but rewarding trek with stunning views of Banff and the Bow Valley.

Exploring nearby attractions like Surprise Corner and the Bow Falls.

Spotting wildlife such as deer and elk in the surrounding forests.

A serene and family-friendly area blending outdoor exploration with natural tranquility.

Banff Avenue

The lively heart of the town of Banff, Banff Avenue is a bustling street lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. It’s the perfect blend of alpine charm and urban convenience. Ideal for shoppers, foodies, and cultural explorers.

Known For

Browsing boutique shops and outdoor gear stores for unique finds.

Dining at diverse restaurants offering everything from Canadian classics to international cuisine.

Visiting cultural landmarks like the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies.

Enjoying vibrant nightlife at cozy pubs and rooftop bars.

Iconic landmarks like the Banff Park Museum.

Johnston Canyon

Nestled within Banff National Park, Johnston Canyon is one of the park’s most popular attractions, renowned for its dramatic waterfalls, lush forested trails, and captivating rock formations. This easily accessible canyon offers an unforgettable adventure for all ages. Ideal for hikers, families, and nature enthusiasts.

Known For

Walking the scenic trail to the Lower Falls and continuing to the spectacular Upper Falls.

Exploring the Catwalk Path, a series of walkways that hug the canyon walls above the rushing creek.

Visiting the Ink Pots, a series of vibrant mineral springs at the end of the trail.

Spotting wildlife like birds, squirrels, and sometimes even bears along the way.

A stunning and family-friendly area blending accessible trails with breathtaking scenery.

Bow Valley Parkway

Stretching between Banff and Lake Louise, the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) is a scenic drive offering stunning views, rich wildlife, and access to several of Banff National Park’s iconic attractions. It’s a slower-paced, picturesque alternative to the Trans-Canada Highway. Ideal for wildlife watchers, road trippers, and photographers.

Known For

Stopping at Morant’s Curve for iconic views of the train tracks against the Rocky Mountains

Access to Johnston Canyon and other trails.

Stunning viewpoints like Castle Mountain Lookout.

Spotting wildlife such as elk, deer, and bears along the quiet route.

Enjoying serene picnic areas with mountain and river views.

A peaceful and scenic area blending natural beauty with leisurely exploration.

Banff Upper Hot Springs

Situated on Sulphur Mountain, the Banff Upper Hot Springs offers a relaxing soak in mineral-rich, naturally heated water surrounded by panoramic mountain views. It’s a soothing retreat and a historic part of Banff’s wellness tradition. Ideal for couples, families, and relaxation seekers.

Known For

Soaking in the warm waters while taking in breathtaking views of the Rockies.

Learning about the history of the springs at the Upper Hot Springs Bathhouse.

Relaxing in the outdoor pool, especially magical during snowy winter days.

Enjoying a spa-like experience after a day of hiking or skiing.

A relaxing and rejuvenating area blending wellness with stunning alpine scenery.

Lake Minnewanka

The largest lake in Banff National Park, Lake Minnewanka is a stunning glacial lake surrounded by rugged peaks and forests. Known for its turquoise waters and historical significance, it’s a hub for outdoor activities and exploration. Ideal for boaters, history enthusiasts, and adventurers.

Known For

Taking a Lake Minnewanka Cruise to learn about the lake’s history and enjoy panoramic views.

Hiking trails like the Stewart Canyon Trail or longer treks along the lakeshore.

Spotting underwater remnants of a submerged village, lost to a dam project in 1941.

Fishing for trout in the lake’s cold, clear waters.

A breathtaking and adventurous area blending natural grandeur with rich history.

Norquay

Just minutes from the town of Banff, Mount Norquay is a versatile mountain resort offering year-round activities. Known for its family-friendly skiing in winter and scenic hiking and climbing in summer, it’s a hub for outdoor adventure. Ideal for families, skiers, and adventure enthusiasts.

Known For

Skiing or snowboarding on varied terrain suitable for all skill levels.

Taking part in tubing for fun, family-friendly winter thrills.

Riding the Norquay Chairlift for stunning panoramic views of Banff and the Bow Valley.

Hiking or climbing on trails such as the Via Ferrata, a thrilling guided adventure.

A dynamic and accessible area blending year-round activities with spectacular views.

Top Stays*

  • Budget
  • Mid-Range
  • Luxury

Banff Ptarmigan Inn

A budget-friendly hotel offering comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, sauna, and a central location near downtown Banff.

Banff International Hotel

A value hotel with clean and cozy rooms, an indoor pool, hot tub, and convenient access to nearby attractions.

Moose Hotel and Suites

A boutique hotel with cozy rooms and suites, located close to downtown Banff with a rooftop hot tub and sauna.

Banff Aspen Lodge

A charming hotel featuring comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, hot tubs, and complimentary breakfast.

Fairmont Banff Springs

A historic and luxurious hotel located in the heart of Banff National Park, offering stunning views and upscale amenities.

Rimrock Resort Hotel

A beautiful mountain resort with luxurious rooms and suites, featuring a spa, fine dining, and panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies.

Disclaimer* Please keep in mind that the definition of budget categories may vary, and the prices and ratings of hotels can fluctuate. Hotel prices and availability can vary based on the time of year, special events, and other factors. Always do your research, compare prices and read recent guest reviews to find the best accommodation that suits your budget and preferences.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Banff largely depends on your preferences for weather, budget, events and crowd levels. Also, it depends on your personal preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. Here's a breakdown of the different seasons:

Spring (March–May): Spring is a transitional season in Banff, with melting snow, fewer tourists, and emerging wildlife. It’s a great time for early-season hiking, scenic drives, and visiting Lake Louise before peak crowds arrive. Prices remain lower until late May, when summer tourism begins.

Summer (June–August): Summer is peak tourist season, with warm temperatures, open hiking trails, and breathtaking alpine views. It’s the best time for canoeing, wildlife spotting, and exploring Banff National Park, but attractions like Moraine Lake and Lake Louise get extremely crowded. This is the busiest and most expensive time to visit, with high hotel prices and full bookings.

Fall (September–November): Fall offers stunning autumn colors, fewer tourists, and cooler temperatures. It’s a great time for hiking, photography, and wildlife viewing, with the golden larch trees peaking in late September. Crowds drop significantly in October and November, and hotel prices become more affordable.

Winter (December–February): Winter in Banff is a snowy wonderland, perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and soaking in hot springs. The holiday season and SnowDays Festival in January bring a festive atmosphere, but also higher prices. Outside of holiday weeks, January and February are the best for budget-friendly winter travel.

Average Weather

°C & Kmph | °F & mph

Fog

Fog

January

-7°C / -21°C

Light snow
Freezing fog

sunrise

8:40 AM

sunset

5:04 PM

Precipitation

0.73mm

Humidity

94%

Wind

6kmph

Snow

Snow

February

-3°C / -17°C

Light snow showers
Moderate or heavy snow showers

sunrise

7:56 AM

sunset

5:58 PM

Precipitation

2.51mm

Humidity

91%

Wind

6kmph

Light snow showers

Light snow showers

March

-1°C / -16°C

Moderate or heavy snow showers
Light snow showers

sunrise

7:55 AM

sunset

7:48 PM

Precipitation

2.14mm

Humidity

89%

Wind

6kmph

Light snow showers

Light snow showers

April

4°C / -8°C

Moderate or heavy snow showers
Light snow showers

sunrise

6:46 AM

sunset

8:39 PM

Precipitation

2.52mm

Humidity

76%

Wind

7kmph

Light rain shower

Light rain shower

May

9°C / -5°C

Patchy light rain with thunder
Light rain shower

sunrise

5:51 AM

sunset

9:28 PM

Precipitation

4.55mm

Humidity

77%

Wind

6kmph

Partly cloudy

Partly cloudy

June

14°C / -2°C

Patchy light rain with thunder
Partly cloudy

sunrise

5:27 AM

sunset

10:00 PM

Precipitation

3.01mm

Humidity

68%

Wind

7kmph

Patchy light rain with thunder 1

Patchy light rain with thunder 1

July

23°C / 5°C

Sunny
Patchy light rain with thunder

sunrise

5:45 AM

sunset

9:51 PM

Precipitation

1.81mm

Humidity

55%

Wind

6kmph

Light rain shower

Light rain shower

August

19°C / 3°C

Patchy light rain with thunder
Patchy rain possible

sunrise

6:30 AM

sunset

9:02 PM

Precipitation

3.09mm

Humidity

68%

Wind

6kmph

Partly cloudy

Partly cloudy

September

14°C / 1°C

Sunny
Partly cloudy

sunrise

7:19 AM

sunset

7:55 PM

Precipitation

3.19mm

Humidity

71%

Wind

7kmph

Partly cloudy

Partly cloudy

October

4°C / -6°C

Overcast
Partly cloudy

sunrise

8:07 AM

sunset

6:48 PM

Precipitation

4.56mm

Humidity

83%

Wind

7kmph

Snow

Snow

November

-3°C / -13°C

Overcast
Moderate snow

sunrise

8:00 AM

sunset

4:53 PM

Precipitation

3.29mm

Humidity

90%

Wind

6kmph

Mist 1

Mist 1

December

-3°C / -13°C

Overcast
Mist

sunrise

8:40 AM

sunset

4:35 PM

Precipitation

3.78mm

Humidity

91%

Wind

6kmph

SunriseSunrise SunsetSunset PrecipitationPrecipitation HumidityHumidity WindWind Speed

Disclaimer: Please note that the event dates and details can change, so it's advisable to check with official event websites and local sources for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.

Travel Readiness

Travel Advisory

Stay informed about potential travel risks and safety considerations before embarking on your journey. Travel advisories provide essential information about security concerns, health alerts, natural disasters, and other important updates. We recommend reviewing the latest travel advisories to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.​

TRAVEL.STATE.GOV

Travel Entry Requirements

Before traveling, ensure you meet the entry requirements for your destination. These requirements may include vaccination records, visas, and other travel documentation. Requirements vary based on nationality and recent travel history. For the latest information, visit the official government website for your destination.​

LEARN MORE

Currency

When traveling, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the local currency. Before you go, check the current exchange rates and consider exchanging some money in advance. Many destinations also accept major credit cards and digital payments, but it’s a good idea to carry local. Below is a quick guide to the official currencies used in this destinations:​

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Language

Understanding the local language can enhance your travel experience. While many destinations have English-speaking locals, knowing a few key phrases in the native language shows respect and can be very helpful. Here’s a quick overview of the official and widely spoken languages in this destinations:​

English (official)

Timezone

Knowing the local time zone of your destination helps you plan your itinerary, stay connected, and avoid scheduling mishaps. Many destinations also observe daylight saving time, so it’s important to check for seasonal changes. Below is a quick reference for common time zone(s) in this destinations:

Mountain Standard Time (MST), UTC -7
Mountain Daylight Time (MDT), UTC -6

How To Get Around

Always consider the best mode of transport depending on your destination and the distance you need to cover:

Public Transportation

Banff has a good public transportation system operated by Roam Transit. You can purchase a day pass or multi-day pass to easily access various attractions within the town and nearby areas.

Shuttle

There are private shuttle services that can take you to popular tourist destinations such as Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Johnston Canyon. These services offer convenience and flexibility for travelers.

Bicycle

Banff is a very bike-friendly town, with dedicated bike lanes and several rental shops where you can rent a bike for a day or longer. Biking is a great way to explore the town and its surrounding scenic trails.

Walking

Banff is a relatively small town, and many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to immerse yourself in the beauty of the town and enjoy its charming streets.

Rental Car

If you prefer the freedom of having your own transportation, you can rent a car from one of the rental agencies in Banff. This option allows you to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace.

Calendar

5/12 5/13 5/14 5/15 5/16 5/17 5/18

Day 1: Sat, May 12
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 2: Sun, May 13
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 3: Mon, May 14
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 4: Tue, May 15
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 5: Wed, May 16
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 6: Thu, May 17
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

Day 7: Fri, May 18
6:10 A.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

3:00 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

5:30 P.M

Land in Paris at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport

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