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Whistler to Banff from $90: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Whistler, Canada
to
Banff, Canada

How to Get from Whistler 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.

$90 by busBest price
537.5 kmDistance
5h 42m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Whistler 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
various
Bus
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
6h  19m
Estimated price
$111-338
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
14h  52m
Estimated price
$90-190
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 537.5 km
Duration: 5h 42m

See more options

Company
Rocky Mountaineer
Train
Average Duration
96h  2m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
10h  27m
Estimated price
$110-170
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  42m
Estimated price
$123-330
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Traveling From Whistler to Banff

Traveling from Whistler to Banff offers a rich contrast, with Whistler’s vibrant ski village atmosphere giving way to Banff’s serene alpine charm, both showcasing the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.

Best Neighbourhoods in Banff

Banff's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences for visitors.

Banff Townsite
• Central location for easy access to attractions.
• Vibrant shops and restaurants line the streets.
Tunnel Mountain
• Scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Great hiking trails right at your doorstep.
Sulphur Mountain
• Access to the popular Banff Gondola.
• Breathtaking views of the Bow Valley.

Best Times To Visit Banff's Attractions

Timing your visit can elevate your Banff experience significantly.

Lake Louise
Visit early in the morning for serene views and fewer people.
Banff Gondola
Go during weekdays in late fall for a quieter ride.
Moraine Lake
Visit mid-week in late spring for stunning colors and less traffic.

Banff Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Banff experiences a mix of chilly winters and mild summers, with each season bringing its unique beauty; the best times to visit are between late spring and early fall for optimal hiking and sightseeing. Weather can significantly influence your travel plans, so being prepared for sudden changes enhances your overall experience.

Dining Recommendation in Banff

For a unique dining experience, try the elk bolognese at The Bison Restaurant, where locally sourced ingredients shine in an inviting, rustic atmosphere. Unlike Whistler's focus on international flavors, Banff offers a taste of the Rockies with dishes that celebrate its natural bounty.

Whistler - Banff operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Website
https://www.snowbus.com/

Bus from Whistler to Vancouver Airport

Average Duration
1h 49m
Estimated price
22-35

Bus from Whistler to Vancouver, BC - Pacific Central Station

Average Duration
1h 37m
Estimated price
22-35
Contact phone
1.833.276.5841
Website
https://bcconnector.com/

Bus from Whistler Village, BC to Vancouver, BC - Pacific Central Station

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
0-40
Contact phone
+1 604-326-1616
Website
https://www.yvrskylynx.com/

Bus from Whistler to Pacific Central Station

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
11-45
Contact phone
1-833-583-3636
Website
http://riderexpress.ca

Bus from Vancouver, BC to Banff, AB

Average Duration
12h 15m
Estimated price
90-150
Shuttle
Contact phone
+1 403 762 0000
Website
https://www.banfftransportation.com/

Shuttle from Calgary Airport to Banff, AB

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
+1-403-522-2700
Website
https://mtnparktrans.com/

Shuttle from Calgary Airport to Banff, AB - hotels

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
51-51
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
1800.821.531
Website
https://www.rockymountaineer.com/

Train from Whistler, BC to Vancouver, BC - Rocky Mountaineer Station

Average Duration
25h
Estimated price
0-0

Train from Vancouver, BC - Rocky Mountaineer Station to Banff, AB

Average Duration
73h
Estimated price
0-0
Plane Show flights
Website
westjet.com

Plane from Vancouver Airport to Calgary Airport

Average Duration
1h 26m
Estimated price
80-360
Website
aircanada.com

Plane from Vancouver Airport to Calgary Airport

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
110-480
Website
flyflair.com

Plane from Vancouver Airport to Calgary Airport

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
40-320
Website
aircanada.com

Plane from Abbotsford Airport to Calgary Airport

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
65-330

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

Traveling between Whistler 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 road trip from Whistler to Banff, covering 796.6 km of breathtaking Canadian landscapes and natural beauty. 💰 Explore the flexibility of travel costs, with prices ranging from C$148 to C$229 for the drive from Whistler to Banff. 🏔️ Immerse yourself in a 10-hour and 27-minute drive filled with majestic mountain views, charming towns, and the freedom of the open road.
Average price
C$152 - C$235
🚂 Embark on an epic train journey from Whistler to Banff where you'll experience breathtaking views and unparalleled luxury aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. ⏰ The total travel time from Whistler to Banff by train is approximately 4 days and 2 hours, allowing you to immerse yourself in the majestic Canadian Rockies along the way.
Departure Point
Whistler, BC station
Arrival Point
Banff, AB station
Useful tips for train travellers
• When booking your train trip from Whistler to Banff, check for the onboard catering services provided by the Rocky Mountaineer line. They offer complimentary breakfast and lunch services, with options ranging from fresh, locally sourced ingredients to gourmet dishes. Be sure to inform the staff of any dietary restrictions when you board.
• The train offers a variety of seating options, including Gold Leaf Service and Silver Leaf Service. Gold Leaf Service includes upper-level seating with panoramic views, plus gourmet meals served at your seat. Silver Leaf Service offers the same great view but served at your seat in a more casual setting. Assess your budget and preferences carefully before selecting your tickets.
• There are multiple operators along this scenic route, primarily including Rocky Mountaineer (rockymountaineer.com) and VIA Rail (viarail.ca). Make sure to explore both websites to find the best schedule and ticket options for your journey.
🛫 Starting from Whistler travelers can easily reach Vancouver Airport to catch a direct flight to Calgary Airport, which takes just 1 hour and 24 minutes. Flair Airlines, Air Canada, and WestJet are popular airlines offering flights on this route.
Departure Point
Vancouver Airport
Arrival Point
Calgary Airport
🚌 Despite there being no direct bus from Whistler to Banff, travelers can take a journey with transfers via Vancouver. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 14 hours and 52 minutes. 🌲 Route options vary for the Whistler to Banff bus journey, each taking about 1 day and 2 hours to cover the 983 km distance. Transfers typically involve stops in Vancouver before heading to Calgary and finally Banff.
Departure Point
Whistler station
Arrival Point
Banff, AB station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Whistler to Banff.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Whistler and Banff is approximately 538 km. If you choose to drive, the typical travel time is around 10 hours and 27 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which takes about 14 hours and 52 minutes. If you prefer to fly, you can take a bus to Vancouver and then fly to Banff, with a typical travel time of 6 hours and 18 minutes.
The most cost-effective option to travel from Whistler to Banff is by taking a bus, which typically costs between C$102 and C$203 and takes approximately 14 hours and 52 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest way is to take a combination of bus, fly, and shuttle, which typically costs between C$135 and C$745 and takes around 6 hours and 18 minutes.
The prices of a bus between Banff and Whistler vary depending on the specific bus company and time of travel. On average, the prices range from C$102 to C$203.
To get from Whistler to Banff without using public transportation, you can choose to drive. The distance between the two is approximately 797 km, with a driving time of about 10 hours and 27 minutes. You can rent a car or use your own vehicle, and the prices range from C$149 to C$230 depending on the rental company and type of car.
The most convenient way to travel from Whistler to Banff without a car is by taking a bus. The bus journey takes approximately 14 hours and 52 minutes, and the ticket prices range from C$102 to C$203.
There is no direct train from Whistler to Banff, but there are services available that involve transfers in Vancouver and the journey can take approximately 4 days 2 hours. As for buses, there is no direct route from Whistler to Banff either, but you can take a bus from Whistler to Vancouver, followed by another bus from Vancouver to Banff, which takes approximately 14 hours 52 minutes.
The flight between Whistler and Banff typically takes around 1 hour and 23 minutes. The quickest and most convenient option is to fly from Vancouver Airport to Calgary Airport.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Banff. With over 245 hotels available, you will surely find something that suits your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Banff start at C$72 per night.