The Well Traveled Guide to Banff, Canada

Welcome to beautiful Banff Canada: Home to stunning scenery, snowy mountain tops, bright blue lakes, and never-ending nature. Whether you’re looking to plan a stellar ski trip, relax at a resort, or hike your heart out, our Well Traveled Guide to Banff brings you the ultimate list of must-sees, must-eats, and must-stays so that you can make the most of your mountain getaway. 

Where We Would Sleep

For The Royal Treatment: The Fairmont Banff Springs

Sleep

Fairmont Banff Springs

Banff

Average Nightly Rate

Starting at $1000+ $$$$

Scenic Views Pet Friendly

If you’re looking for luxury in the heart of Banff National Park, look no further than The Fairmont Banff Springs. This world-famous resort is considered Canada’s “Castle in the Rockies” and has been serving guests from around the globe for over 130 years. In addition to the 745 rooms and suites available to book, travelers will find 13 different options for onsite fine dining along with a golf course and spa. Our insider tip? Book breakfast, brunch, or dinner in one of the 360-degree private dining domes for the best views and an unforgettable dining experience.

For Lakeside Luxury: The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Sleep

Fairmont Château Lake Louise

Lake Louise

Average Nightly Rate

Starting at $300+ $$$$

Scenic Views Pet Friendly

Following The Fairmont Banff Springs, we couldn’t forget to mention the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Located further into Banff National Park, about 45 minutes from the actual town of Banff, you’ll find yet another luxurious Fairmont property featuring breathtaking views of bright blue Lake Louise. What really sets this property apart is the array of activities available to travelers, including horseback riding, snowshoeing, skiing, hiking, and more. And if you’re headed here for a winter getaway, their signature Sleigh Ride across frozen Lake Louise is an essential experience.

For Budget-Friendly Bliss: Canalta Lodge

Sleep

Canalta Lodge

Banff

Average Nightly Rate

Starting at $200+ $$$$

Scenic Views Boutique Hotel

The quaint and cozy Canalta Lodge provides an excellent base for all your Banff National Park adventures and is the perfect option for those in search of a budget-friendly stay without sacrificing location or amenities. Here you’ll find hot tubs, saunas, fire pits, and a plunge pool, all within the heart of Banff National Park for an amazingly affordable price per night. Plus, it’s both dog and family-friendly. 

Where We Would Eat

For Simply Amazing Views: Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen

Eat

Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen

Banff

Typical price per person

$50-100 $$$$

Scenic Views Shared Plates

Buffet-style food combined with breathtaking views of Banff makes for one amazing meal at Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen. Choose from an array of classic, ski-lodge comfort food including glazed ham and Alpine mac + cheese. And when you’re not drooling over the food, you’ll catch yourself drooling over the simply stunning views from the summit of Sulphur Mountain.

For Fine Dining: The Maple Leaf

Eat

The Maple Leaf

Banff

Typical price per person

$50-100 $$$$

Date Night Central Location

Fresh fish, local beef and game, and an extensive wine list paired with mountain views… what doesn’t The Maple Leaf do? Their Canadian-inspired cuisine combined with an ultra-cozy atmosphere makes for the perfect date night or special occasion meal while visiting downtown Banff. 

For Local, Farm-to-Fork Fare: Farm & Fire

Eat

Farm & Fire

Banff

Typical price per person

$50-100 $$$$

Central Location Happy Hour

It doesn’t get more local than Farm & Fire. Head Chef Jason Oliver combines his creativity with local, sustainable ingredients to create unique, innovative menus and dishes. Think wood-fired pizzas with flare, braised bison and short rib, and fresh takes on fresh fish. And on top of the fantastic food, you can’t miss out on their killer craft cocktails that somehow taste better during happy hour. 

Where We Would Play

For the Hiking Hero: Sulphur Mountain Trail

Play

Sulphur Mountain

Banff

Typical price per person

$$$$

Scenic Views Getting Outdoors

Ready to take in some mountain air and scenic views while getting those steps in? The Sulphur Mountain Trail is a moderate hike, taking about 3-5 hours roundtrip. It is a great free alternative to the Banff Gondola, as you can still take in stunning views of Cascade Mountain on your way up. Once you hit the summit, you’ll find a mountain-top restaurant, coffee shop, and visitor center to rest at before heading back down. Or if one way was enough, you can hitch a ride on the Gondola to get back down. 

For the Roadtripper: Icefields Parkway

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Icefields Parkway

Lake Louise

Typical price per person

$$$$

Scenic Views Getting Outdoors

Named one of the top 10 drives in the world by Conde Naste Traveler, Icefields Parkway is perfect for those looking to soak up Banff’s scenery without setting foot on a single hiking trail. The 144-mile drive starts in Lake Louise and ends in Jasper, allowing you to see everything from emerald lakes to hundreds of glaciers. Plus, you can always make a few pit stops at attractions along the way.

For Relaxing & Recharging: Willow Stream Spa

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Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Banff Springs

Banff

Typical price per person

$50-100 $$$$

Pool Time Spa Time

Located at the Fairmont Banff Springs, Willow Stream Spa offers the opportunity for pampering, relaxation, and rejuvenation after days packed with adventure. The world-class spa aims to restore and balance your energy through services such as massages, facials, and more. And with each purchase of a spa treatment, you’ll get exclusive access to the adults-only spa facility, complete with an indoor mineral pool and an outdoor whirlpool.