Banff Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

A valley with a town, mountains, and a river.
A lake with a forest and a mountain in the background.
A mountain town with autumn trees, a prominent mountain in the background, and a pedestrian crossing.
A calm lake with a wooden dock, surrounded by a forest and a mountain in the background.
A historic stone building with multiple windows and a central tower.

Experience the majestic beauty and active excitement of the Rocky Mountains from the highest town in Canada.

Situated in Banff National Park, this town is the perfect location from which to explore the wonderful natural surroundings of the Rockies. Banff is a hugely popular destination, with its 10,000 permanent residents welcoming over four million visitors every single year!The landscape is cloaked in white throughout the winter making this one of the best places in the country to go skiing! Ski resorts at Mt Norquay, Lake Louise and Sunshine Village offer a wide range of the best that a downhill enthusiast could wish for. Mt Norquay is the big favourite with the locals, as it has the most challenging slopes and attracts smaller crowds, while a wide range of beginners, intermediate and advanced slopes are catered for at Lake Louise and Sunshine Village. The best way to get out to the ski resorts is to take a shuttle bus. These run from all of the hotels in Banff.Unspoilt green wilderness surrounds the town as summer comes around and lovers of the outdoors have a whole new range of choices. Hundreds of walking trails are marked out throughout the countryside, ranging from gentle walks through the valleys to strenuous hikes up into the heights, exploring hidden mountainsides and spectacular lakes. Mountain biking is also a huge favourite here, with lots of exciting routes available. Maps can be obtained from Banff's bike rental companies. Crystalline blue lakes draw thousands of kayakers to the area too, and there are plenty of kayaking spots to choose from.When you've finished your day's exertions, you can settle back and enjoy a beer in one of the many bars and nightclubs in Banff. The town is famous for its party atmosphere, so make sure to bring a little bit of energy back with you from the hillsides and enjoy your night! The Dancing Sasquatch is known far and wide and is open until late.Banff is located an hour and a half from Calgary, and is four hours south of Jasper by car.

Our guide on where to stay in Banff

Find the best Banff areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Banff
Learn more about Banff

Tunnel Mountain District

Though Tunnel Mountain District may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Banff Springs Golf Club and Tunnel Mountain.

Sulphur Mountain District

While visiting Sulphur Mountain District, you might make a stop by sights like Upper Hot Springs and Sulphur Mountain.

Downtown District

If you're spending some time in Downtown District, Bow River and Canada House Gallery are top sights worth seeing.

Uptown District

While Uptown District isn't home to many top sights, Tunnel Mountain and Canada House Gallery are some notable places to visit nearby.

Banff Centre District

While visiting Banff Centre District, you might make a stop by sights like Bow River and Jenny Belzberg Theatre.

Banff Rocky Mountain Resort

Banff Rocky Mountain Resort

3 out of 5
1029 Banff Ave Banff AB
The price is NZ$277 per night from 13 Oct to 14 Oct
NZ$277
per night
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Stay at this family-friendly hotel in Banff. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 hot tubs. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
Banff Rocky Mountain Resort
Hidden Ridge Resort

Hidden Ridge Resort

3.5 out of 5
901 Hidden Ridge Way Banff AB
The price is NZ$423 per night from 14 Oct to 15 Oct
NZ$423
per night
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Stay at this aparthotel in Banff. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 hot tubs. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (5,164 reviews)
"Good location. Nice, comfortable unit for the family. Some family member complained it was too hot without AC. Pool is small but still fun. Thanks for making the room everyday."

Reviewed on 17 Sept 2026

Hidden Ridge Resort
Moose Hotel And Suites

Moose Hotel And Suites

4 out of 5
345 Banff Ave Banff AB
The price is NZ$473 per night from 12 Oct to 13 Oct
NZ$473
per night
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Stay at this spa hotel in Banff. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in their reviews. Popular ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (2,570 reviews)
"Beautiful hotel, all the best amenities, and excellent customer service! Location, location, location!!"

Reviewed on 16 Sept 2026

Moose Hotel And Suites
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.
Hidden Ridge Resort

Hidden Ridge Resort

3.5 out of 5
901 Hidden Ridge Way Banff AB
Stay at this aparthotel in Banff. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 hot tubs. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (5,164 reviews)
"Good location. Nice, comfortable unit for the family. Some family member complained it was too hot without AC. Pool is small but still fun. Thanks for making the room everyday."

Reviewed on 17 Sept 2026

Hidden Ridge Resort
Douglas Fir Resort and Chalets

Douglas Fir Resort and Chalets

3 out of 5
525 Tunnel Mountain Road Banff AB
Stay at this ski condo in Banff. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 hot tubs. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the convenient parking in their reviews. ...
Douglas Fir Resort and Chalets
Basecamp Suites Banff

Basecamp Suites Banff

2.5 out of 5
101, 316 Marten St Banff AB
Stay at this aparthotel in Banff. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, 2 hot tubs and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the convenient parking in their ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (484 reviews)
"The reception staff were incredibly helpful and friendly. Their warm and welcoming attitude made us feel comfortable and truly welcomed during our stay."

Reviewed on 15 Sept 2026

Basecamp Suites Banff
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.

Stay near popular Banff attractions

Activities

Cities near Banff

Explore a world of travel with Expedia