Canada · Region
Banff
Photo: Mark from Yellowknife, Canada / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Banff sits inside Canada's oldest national park, ringed by glacier-fed peaks, turquoise lakes and the hot springs that first drew visitors here. It remains a compact mountain town, easy to explore on foot, yet surrounded by some of the most dramatic wilderness scenery in the Rockies.
Top-rated things to do in Banff
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Where to stay in Banff
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Frequently asked questions about Banff
How do I get to Banff?
Banff has no airport of its own; travellers fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC), the nearest major gateway, then continue by shuttle, coach or rental car on a scenic drive of ~90 minutes. There is no practical train service between Calgary and Banff, so buses and shuttles from the regional hub are the standard route in.
How many days should I spend in Banff?
Plan on 2 to 4 days to cover the townsite, the gondola and hot springs, plus a side trip to Lake Louise or Moraine Lake.
What is Banff known for?
Banff sits inside Canada's oldest national park, ringed by glacier-fed peaks, turquoise lakes and the hot springs that first drew visitors here. It remains a compact mountain town, easy to explore on foot, yet surrounded by some of the most dramatic wilderness scenery in the Rockies.