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Calgary to Banff from $6: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Calgary, Canada
to
Banff, Canada

How to Get from Calgary to Banff: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$6 by busBest price
105.5 kmDistance
1h 25m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Calgary to Banff with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
The Canada Bus
Bus
Average Duration
2h  37m
Estimated price
$28-38
Recommended
Company
Brewster Express
Bus
Average Duration
2h  55m
Estimated price
$6-80
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 105.5 km
Duration: 1h 25m

See more options

Company
Various
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
3h  47m
Estimated price
$8-68
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
1h  25m
Estimated price
$18-27
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Traveling From Calgary to Banff

The journey from Calgary to Banff offers a striking contrast: Calgary's urban energy and cultural vibrancy shift seamlessly into Banff's breathtaking natural landscapes and serene mountain atmosphere.

Best Neighbourhoods in Banff

Banff features vibrant neighborhoods, each offering its own distinct charm.

Banff Avenue
• Lively shops and dining options abound.
• Close proximity to major attractions.
Sulphur Mountain
• Stunning views accessible via gondola.
• Ideal for outdoor adventures and hiking.
Tunnel Mountain
• Quiet atmosphere with scenic trails.
• Great for camping and nature enthusiasts.

Best Times To Visit Banff's Attractions

Timing your visit to Banff's key spots can elevate your experience.

Lake Louise
Visit early morning or late afternoon for quieter moments and stunning light.
Banff Gondola
Weekdays during the shoulder seasons offer fewer tourists and clear views.
Moraine Lake
Access in the early hours or late spring for breathtaking tranquility and fewer crowds.

Banff Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Banff experiences a diverse climate, with warm summers attracting hikers and chilly winters appealing to skiers; late spring and early fall often provide the best balance of comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Weather conditions significantly influence your travel activities and overall experience, making it essential to pack accordingly.

Dining Recommendation

A visit to Banff isn’t complete without indulging in the elk bolognese at The Maple Leaf, where locally sourced ingredients elevate traditional flavors. This dining experience offers a cozy mountain atmosphere that contrasts with Calgary's bustling food scene, allowing you to savor the taste of the Rockies in a truly distinctive setting.

Calgary - Banff operators

Explore transport companies operating between Calgary and Banff, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+14036689600
Website
https://thecanadabus.com/

Bus from Calgary, AB - Crowfoot LRT Station to Banff, AB - Mount Royal Hotel

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
CA$25-35
Contact phone
1-866-606-6700
Website
https://www.banffjaspercollection.com/brewster-express/

Bus from Calgary Downtown, AB to Banff, AB

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
CA$55-80
Contact phone
+1 403-938-3966
Website
https://www.onitregionaltransit.ca/okotoks-commuter/

Bus from Calgary, AB - Downtown to Banff, AB - Elk Street Transit Hub

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
CA$6-9
Contact phone
+1 403-262-1000
Website
https://www.calgarytransit.com/home.html

Bus from Sb 5 St Sw @ 7 Av Sw to YYC Airport Domestic Terminal

Average Duration
47m
Estimated price
CA$9-9
Contact phone
1-888-449-2901
Website
https://banffairporter.com/

Bus from Calgary International Airport to Banff, AB

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
CA$0-60

Calgary to Banff: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Calgary and Banff offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic journey from Calgary to Banff, spanning 127.1 km of captivating landscapes and stunning mountain views. The drive takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, offering a perfect day trip escape from the city hustle. 💸 Encounter budget-friendly options with prices ranging from C$24 to C$36 for the road trip adventure to Banff from Calgary.
Average price
C$25 - C$37
🚌 The journey from Calgary to Banff by bus takes approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes and operates daily with departures every four hours. 🗻 The route covers a distance of 131 km and offers a picturesque ride through the stunning landscapes of Alberta from Calgary Downtown to Banff. 💰 Prices for the bus ticket between Calgary and Banff range from C$8 to C$108, providing an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two charming Canadian destinations.
Departure Point
Calgary Downtown, AB station
Arrival Point
Banff, AB station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your ticket in advance with Brewster Express (brewsterexpress.com) or Rider Express (riderexpress.ca) to secure your seat, especially during peak tourist seasons, as buses operate every four hours and can fill up quickly.
• Look for the 'Express' symbol on the Brewster bus; some buses might be shared with local routes making stops along the way, so confirming you're on the direct service can save you time.
• Upon arriving at Banff, expect a small but busy station; be prepared to quickly locate transportation options like shuttles and taxis outside the terminal which can take you to your accommodation or the scenic sites in Banff.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Calgary to Banff.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Calgary and Banff is approximately 105 km by road. By car, the typical travel time from Calgary to Banff is around 1 hour and 25 minutes. Alternatively, taking a bus from Calgary to Banff can take about 3 hours and 9 minutes, while a combination of bus and light rail transit can take around 2 hours and 37 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Calgary to Banff is to drive. It takes approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes to reach Banff from Calgary by car, and the cost is around C$24-C$36 for fuel. This allows for flexibility in terms of departure and arrival times, and it is the quickest way to reach your destination. Taking a bus is also an option, but it is slightly more time-consuming, taking around 3 hours and 9 minutes.
When traveling from Calgary to Banff, the prices for a bus ticket range from C$9 to C$95.
To get from Calgary to Banff without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The driving distance between Calgary and Banff is approximately 127 km, and it takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes depending on traffic conditions. You can rent a car or use your own vehicle, and the prices for a one-way trip can vary from C$24 to C$36.
To travel from Calgary to Banff without a car, you can take a bus via Calgary - Crowfoot LRT Station. This journey takes approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes and costs C$36 to C$54.
Yes, there is a direct link between Calgary and Banff. Sundog Transportation and Tours operates bus services that depart from Downtown Calgary and arrive at Banff. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 9 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Banff. You can choose from over 245 hotels in the area, catering to various budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels start at C$71 per night.