Calgary is a vibrant city in Alberta, Canada, known for its cowboy culture, world-class winter sports facilities, and stunning Rocky Mountain landscapes. As the gateway to Banff National Park, Calgary attracts many outdoor enthusiasts and offers a unique blend of Western culture, modern urban amenities, and rich artistic activities, making it an ideal travel destination. The city’s charm lies not only in its natural beauty but also in its deep historical roots and dynamic urban life. Every year, thousands of visitors come to experience its unique Western spirit and breathtaking scenery.
Due to its unique location, Calgary is the perfect starting point for trips to natural wonders like Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. From here, you can easily access some of Canada’s most beautiful ski resorts, lakes, mountains, and pristine forests. In addition to its natural beauty, Calgary offers a wealth of local events, such as the Calgary Stampede, the world’s largest cowboy festival, where visitors can experience Western culture through equestrian performances, rodeos, street parties, and live music.
The city’s urban development is also impressive, with modern skyscrapers juxtaposed against traditional Western architecture, creating a distinctive cityscape. One of Calgary’s most popular attractions, Prince’s Island Park, offers expansive green spaces and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for locals and tourists alike to unwind. Additionally, the Calgary Tower is one of the city’s iconic landmarks, where visitors can enjoy 360° panoramic views of the city and the distant Rocky Mountains.
To better plan your trip to Calgary, understanding the best ways to get there is essential. Whether you’re traveling from other cities or major transportation hubs across the country, Calgary’s transportation options are convenient. You can fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC), the fastest option; for a leisurely journey, consider taking a train to enjoy the scenic views along the way. Using platforms like Trainline, you can easily book train tickets from cities like Toronto and Vancouver and enjoy the stunning scenery.
For those on a budget, buses provide an affordable travel option, perfect for travelers in no hurry to reach their destination. For those who prefer flexibility, renting a car is the best choice. Calgary’s surrounding natural attractions are abundant, and self-driving allows you to stop along the way and take in the beautiful scenery.
1. How to Get to Calgary? Best Travel Options
As a key hub in Western Canada, Calgary has an extensive transportation network. Depending on your budget, time, and travel preferences, you can choose the best option.
1. Airplane – The Fastest Option
If you’re short on time, flying is the most time-efficient choice. Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the fourth largest airport in Canada, offering flights to major cities across the country.
- Main routes & airlines:
- Toronto (YYZ) → Calgary (YYC) 4 hours Air Canada, WestJet
- Vancouver (YVR) → Calgary (YYC) 1.5 hours Air Canada, WestJet
- Montreal (YUL) → Calgary (YYC) 4.5 hours Air Canada
- Edmonton (YEG) → Calgary (YYC) 1 hour Air Canada, WestJet
- Airport to city transportation:
- C-Train Light Rail: Take Route 300 airport bus directly to downtown, ticket price around $11 CAD.
- Taxi/Uber/Lyft: Fare is about $40-$50 CAD, with a 25-minute drive.
- Car Rental: The airport offers multiple car rental companies, perfect for travelers planning to explore Banff or nearby areas.
2. Train – A Relaxing and Scenic Option
For those who enjoy a slower-paced trip, the train is a great way to take in the scenic views. You can book VIA Rail tickets through Trainline for a hassle-free experience.
- Recommended train routes:
- Vancouver → Calgary: VIA Rail travels through the majestic Rocky Mountains.
- Toronto → Calgary: While there’s no direct train, you can take a train to Edmonton and then transfer to a bus or rent a car to Calgary.
- Train Travel Highlights:
- Admire the spectacular landscapes of the Rocky Mountains, forests, and lakes along the way.
- Perfect for travelers who prefer a leisurely journey without time constraints.
- Check Trainline for the best schedules and discounted tickets!
3. Long-Distance Bus – A Budget-Friendly Option
If you’re on a budget, traveling by long-distance bus is an affordable choice. Major operators like Rider Express, Red Arrow, and Ebus provide services between Calgary and other major cities.
- Popular routes (bookable via Trainline):
- Edmonton → Calgary: 3.5 hours, $50-$80 CAD
- Vancouver → Calgary: 13 hours, $100-$180 CAD
- Best for: Students, backpackers, and budget-conscious travelers.
4. Self-Drive – Endless Scenic Routes for Adventurers
If you love flexibility and want to enjoy Canada’s breathtaking landscapes, self-driving is the ideal choice.
- Popular driving routes:
- Vancouver → Calgary: 10 hours (passing through the Rocky Mountains)
- Banff National Park → Calgary: 1.5 hours
- Edmonton → Calgary: 3 hours
- Self-Drive Tips:
- In winter, it’s recommended to rent a 4WD, as some mountain roads may be icy.
- There are many stunning sights along the way, including Lake Louise and Icefields Parkway.
2. Must-Visit Attractions in Calgary
1. Calgary Tower (Calgary Tower)
- Address: 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary
- Admission: Around $18 CAD As one of Calgary’s iconic landmarks, the Calgary Tower stands at 190 meters tall, making it a must-see attraction. From the observation deck, you can enjoy a 360° view of the city and the distant Rocky Mountains. The tower’s sleek, modern design makes it a great spot for photos. Additionally, the tower features a glass floor, allowing visitors to look down on the city below for a thrilling experience.
From here, not only can you admire the urban landscape, but during the winter months, the Rocky Mountains often appear as snow-capped peaks, adding a picturesque touch. The tower’s restaurant also serves delicious Western and local dishes, offering a fantastic place for a meal with a view.
2. Calgary Stampede (Calgary Stampede)
- Time: Held every July, lasting 10 days
- Admission: Starting at $25 CAD The Calgary Stampede is the largest cowboy festival in the world and one of the city’s signature cultural events. Held every July, this massive celebration showcases equestrian performances, rodeos, mechanical bull riding, street parties, local food, and live music. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in Western culture, and you can even watch traditional cowboy competitions like bull riding and horse racing.
The atmosphere is lively, and if you’re interested in learning more about Western history, the festival’s historical exhibits offer insight into the life of early settlers.
3. Banff National Park (Banff National Park)
- Distance from Calgary: About 130 kilometers, 1.5-hour drive
- Admission: $10.5 CAD Banff National Park is the oldest national park in Canada and one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world. Located about 130 kilometers west of Calgary, Banff is known for its crystal-clear lakes, stunning snow-capped mountains, abundant wildlife, and adventurous hiking trails.
Famous spots include Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, both famous for their vibrant turquoise waters and scenic mountain backdrops. During winter, Lake Louise transforms into a skier’s paradise, while in the summer, it becomes a perfect spot for outdoor activities.
4. Prince’s Island Park (Prince’s Island Park)
- Address: 698 Eau Claire Ave SW, Calgary
- Admission: Free Prince’s Island Park is one of Calgary’s most beloved green spaces, providing a tranquil escape within the city. With expansive lawns, tree-lined paths, and serene waters, it’s the ideal location for picnics, walking, and cycling. During summer, the park hosts various music festivals, cultural events, and local art exhibitions, drawing large crowds.
3. Calgary City Transportation Guide
- C-Train Light Rail
The C-Train is one of Calgary’s most convenient modes of transport, especially for short-distance travel around the city. It covers major areas, including attractions like Calgary Tower and Prince’s Island Park, and offers free rides between certain stations in the city center. If you’re staying downtown, the C-Train is an ideal way to get around. - Buses
Calgary’s bus network is extensive, covering the city and suburbs. It’s an affordable option for longer journeys, with single rides costing around $3.60 CAD. - Uber/Lyft & Taxis
For short trips or when you have a lot of luggage, Uber, Lyft, and taxis are great options. While slightly pricier, they offer a fast and comfortable transportation experience. - Bicycle Rentals
If you enjoy cycling, consider renting a bike. Calgary offers excellent cycling paths, ideal for short explorations of the city, including a scenic route along the Bow River.
4. How to Plan Your Calgary Trip
Recommended travel options:
- Airplane: Fastest, perfect for time-limited travelers.
- Train: Ideal for those who prefer a relaxing journey and scenic views, using Trainline to check schedules and book tickets.
- Self-Drive: Best for adventurers and those wanting to explore surrounding attractions with flexibility.
Must-Visit Attractions:
- Calgary Tower: 360° views of the city and Rocky Mountains.
- Calgary Stampede: Experience the world’s largest cowboy festival.
- Banff National Park: Explore Canada’s most stunning natural landscapes.
- Prince’s Island Park: Ideal for outdoor activities, music festivals, and cultural events.
City Transportation:
- C-Train: Convenient and free in parts of the downtown area.
- Buses: Affordable for longer distances.
- Uber & Taxis: Convenient for short trips.
Whether you’re on a short trip or planning an in-depth exploration, Calgary promises unforgettable experiences. From urban landmarks to surrounding natural beauty, every corner of the city is worth exploring. Come and discover the charm of Calgary!