Calgary and Banff Holiday

Sample Itinerary of Calgary and Banff Holiday

Calgary and Banff Holiday 

Experience the perfect blend of city excitement and breathtaking natural beauty with this 8-night Calgary and Banff Holiday in 2025 / 2026. Stay for 4 nights in Calgary and 4 nights in Banff, with direct return flights on Air Canada. This Multi-Centre Canada Holiday offers Western Charm in Calgary aka "Cowboy Country", outdoor adventures and stunning scenery in Banff, and optional add-ons to Lake Louise or Jasper! This is the perfect short trip to Canada for families and/or couples! 

Holiday Highlights:

• Return direct flights on Air Canada
• Enjoy the Western Charm of Calgary - including the Calgary Stampede (July Only). 
• Discover the stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures of Banff National Park.
• Visit iconic sites like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Banff Gondola.
• See incredible wildlife like Grizzly and Black bears, enjoy scenic hikes and relaxing hot springs.
• Summer School Holiday Dates - perfect for families! 

Day 1-4: Calgary – Cowboy Country 

Calgary, Alberta’s largest city, is a buzzing city known for its mix of modern skyscrapers and western heritage thanks the beloved Calgary Stampede! Located at the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, it serves as the perfect gateway to the mountains while offering exciting attractions, cultural landmarks, and world-class dining. Enjoy four nights soaking in the best of what this city has to offer before heading to the great outdoors. Stay in Calgary for 4 nights at the The Westin Calgary - a 4* hotel located ideally in Downtown Calgary! 

Things to Do in Calgary:

• Calgary Tower – Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline and beyond.
• Heritage Park Historical Village – Step back in time and explore Canada’s largest living history museum.
• Studio Bell, Home of the National Music Centre – Discover Canada’s musical legacy with interactive exhibits.
• Stephen Avenue Walk – Stroll down this lively pedestrian street filled with shops, cafes, and entertainment.
• Prince’s Island Park – Relax in this scenic urban park, perfect for a picnic or a leisurely walk along the Bow River.
• Calgary Zoo – Visit one of Canada’s best zoos, home to over 1,000 animals from around the world.
• Glenbow Museum – Delve into art, culture, and history with fascinating exhibitions.
• Day Trip to Drumheller & the Badlands – Visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum, hike through the otherworldly landscapes, and see the famous hoodoos.
• Calgary Stampede (July only) – If visiting in July, experience "The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth," a world-famous rodeo and festival.

Drive from Calgary to Banff: Approx. 1.5 hours (127 km). On your last day in Calgary, you'll pick up your car to drive from Calgary to Banff, which will take you through some of Canada's most scenic landscapes, including the rolling foothills of Alberta, vast open plains, and the majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies as you approach Banff National Park.

Day 5-8: Banff – Nature & Adventure in the Canadian Rockies

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff is a world-renowned destination known for its stunning mountain landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and endless outdoor adventure opportunities. Whether you're looking to hike through breathtaking trails, relax in natural hot springs, or take in the beauty of iconic lakes, Banff offers something for everyone. Spend four nights exploring this awe-inspiring national park and even get a birds-eye view from the gondola! In Banff, you'll spend 4 nights at the Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa.

Things to Do in Banff:

• Banff Gondola – Take a ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain for breathtaking mountain views.
• Banff Upper Hot Springs – Soak in natural thermal waters while surrounded by stunning alpine scenery.
• Lake Minnewanka Cruise – Explore this glacial lake on a scenic boat tour.
• Johnston Canyon – Hike along the scenic trail to see waterfalls and limestone cliffs.
• Moraine Lake & Lake Louise – Visit these world-famous turquoise lakes for stunning photo opportunities and hiking trails.
• Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel – Tour the "Castle in the Rockies" and enjoy fine dining or afternoon tea.
• Cave and Basin National Historic Site – Learn about the birthplace of Canada’s national parks system.
• Wildlife Spotting – Keep an eye out for elk, deer, and even bears along scenic drives like the Bow Valley Parkway.
• Sunshine Village or Lake Louise Ski Resort (Winter Visit) – Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding in the colder months.
• Whitewater Rafting (Summer Visit) – Experience the thrills of river rafting on the Kicking Horse River.

Optional Add-Ons:

• Lake Louise (1 Extra Night) – Extend your trip with a stay at the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Enjoy canoeing, hiking, or simply soaking in the stunning alpine views.
• Jasper National Park (3+ Extra Nights) – Take the Icefields Parkway to Jasper, stopping at attractions like Athabasca Falls and the Columbia Icefield Skywalk. Explore Maligne Lake, Miette Hot Springs, and Mount Edith Cavell for an extended Rockies adventure.

Plan your perfect Canadian getaway and experience the best of both city life and mountain adventure with Charter Travel's Canada Specialists! 

All our holidays are tailor-made and can be adapted by changing hotels durations and destinations to suit the individuals tastes and requirements – please do get in touch so we can start planning.