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Edmonton, Alberta to Banff, Alberta from $55: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Edmonton, Canada
to
Banff, Canada

How to Get from Edmonton 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.

$55 by busBest price
187 kmDistance
4h 15m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Edmonton 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
Drive
Average Duration
6h  8m
Estimated price
$46-131
Recommended
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  15m
Estimated price
$143-322
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 187 km
Duration: 4h 15m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  22m
Estimated price
$55-90
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
6h  36m
Estimated price
$59-88
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
8h 
Estimated price
$96-131
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Traveling From Edmonton to Banff

The journey from Edmonton to Banff takes you from the urban pace of Alberta's capital to the breathtaking landscapes of the Canadian Rockies, offering a striking contrast between city life and nature's tranquility.

Best Neighbourhoods in Banff

Banff offers diverse neighborhoods that reflect its unique charm and scenery.

Banff Avenue
• Lively hub with shops and restaurants.
• Close to popular attractions and events.
Tunnel Mountain
• Scenic views and tranquility for relaxation.
• Great access to hiking trails nearby.
Central Park
• Family-friendly area with green spaces.
• Short walk to the Banff Center for Arts.

Best Times To Visit Banff's Attractions

Planning your visit to Banff? Here are the best times to explore key attractions for a memorable experience.

Lake Louise
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Moraine Lake
Best visited in September for vibrant fall colors and less busy trails.
Banff Gondola
Try weekdays in low season for shorter lines and breathtaking views.

Banff Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Banff experiences a mountainous climate with cool summers and snowy winters, making each season uniquely beautiful. The ideal times to visit are late spring and early fall, when mild temperatures enhance outdoor activities, but be prepared for sudden weather changes at any time.

Dining Recommendation in Banff

For a truly memorable dining experience, try the elk tenderloin at The Bison Restaurant, where the focus is on local ingredients and rustic flavors that reflect the surrounding landscape. Unlike Edmonton’s diverse culinary scene, Banff offers a cozy atmosphere with stunning mountain views, creating a unique backdrop that enhances every bite.

Edmonton - Banff operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1-800-232-1958
Website
https://redarrow.ca/

Bus from Edmonton Downtown Ticket Office - Holiday Inn Express Plaza to Calgary International Airport

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
CA$40-60
Contact phone
1-888-449-2901
Website
https://banffairporter.com/

Bus from Calgary International Airport to Canmore, BC

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
CA$0-60
Contact phone
1-866-606-6700
Website
https://www.banffjaspercollection.com/brewster-express/

Bus from Calgary International Airport to Canmore, AB - Coast Canmore Hotel

Average Duration
1h 20m
Estimated price
CA$45-65

Bus from Calgary Downtown, AB to Banff, AB

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
CA$55-80
Contact phone
+14036689600
Website
https://thecanadabus.com/

Bus from Edmonton, AB - Southgate LRT Station to Calgary AB - CrossIron Mills

Average Duration
2h 40m
Estimated price
CA$30-45

Bus from Calgary AB - CrossIron Mills to Banff, AB - Mount Royal Hotel

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
CA$26-40
Contact phone
1-877-769-3287
Website
https://myebus.ca/

Bus from Edmonton Downtown Ticket Office to Calgary, AB Downtown Ticket Office

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
CA$40-55
Plane Show flights
Website
westjet.com

Plane from Edmonton Airport to Calgary Airport

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
CA$95-360
Website
aircanada.com

Plane from Edmonton Airport to Calgary Airport

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
CA$120-480
Website
flyairnorth.com

Plane from Edmonton Airport to Calgary Airport

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
CA$75-380
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
CA$51-0

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

Traveling between Edmonton 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.

🚗 Discover the beauty of the Canadian Rockies on a scenic road trip from Edmonton to Banff, covering a distance of 260 miles. 🏞️ Along the way, you'll pass through picturesque landscapes and charming towns, making the journey of approximately 4 hours and 22 minutes a delightful experience. 💰 Prices for the trip range from C$74 to C$122, offering flexibility for different budgets to explore the stunning natural wonders of Banff National Park.
Average price
C$76 - C$125
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Edmonton to Banff spanning a distance of 443 km. The route includes a transfer in Calgary, adding to the adventure and allowing you to explore more of the stunning Alberta landscape. 🗺️ Enjoy the convenience of a smooth transition as you board the bus towards Calgary - Marlborough Mall, a 3-hour 15-minute ride. Departing from Edmonton South and arriving at Calgary - Westbrook Mall, this leg of the journey sets the stage for your onward travel towards the picturesque destination of Banff. 🏞️ Finally, board the bus towards Vancouver for the last stretch of your trip, lasting approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Departing from Calgary - Westbrook Mall, you'll soon find yourself immersed in the beauty of Banff, ready to experience all the wonders this mountainous paradise has to offer.
🛫 Flying from Edmonton to Banff is a quick and convenient option. The quickest flight from Edmonton Airport to Calgary Airport, the nearest major airport to Banff, is a direct flight that takes only 50 minutes. 🚌 Once you land in Calgary, you can easily arrange ground transportation to Banff, such as shuttle services or rental cars. The scenic drive from Calgary to Banff takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, showcasing the stunning beauty of the Canadian Rockies along the way.
Departure Point
Edmonton Airport
Arrival Point
Calgary Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking your tickets with WestJet, as they often have the most frequent flights from Edmonton to Calgary, which could provide you with better flexibility on your travel dates.
• Upon arriving at Calgary International Airport, head to the Canadian Rockies Airport Shuttle desk in the arrivals area for hassle-free transportation to Banff; the ride usually takes around 1.5 hours and costs approximately CAD 60 per person.
• Familiarize yourself with the layout of Calgary International Airport; after you land, you'll find it straightforward to navigate, but be aware that there can be busy periods at security, so be prepared for possible delays.
🚌 There is no direct bus from Edmonton to Banff but you can take a service that includes transfers, taking approximately 6 hours and 8 minutes. 🏔️ Route options vary in duration from around 16 to 17 hours, with transfers along the way, providing different experiences for your journey. 💰 Prices for the bus between Edmonton and Banff range from C$80 to C$119, offering a cost-effective way to travel between these two Alberta destinations.
Departure Point
Edmonton Downtown Ticket Office - Holiday Inn Express Plaza station
Arrival Point
Canmore, BC station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus tickets in advance through either Red Arrow Motorcoach (redarrow.ca) or Rider Express (riderexpress.ca) to secure the best fares and ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Be prepared for your transfer at Calgary's Westbrook Mall: ensure you arrive at least 20 minutes early for the next bus to Banff, as this will allow you to find your way around and grab a quick snack at one of the nearby cafes if needed.
• Upon arrival at the Banff High School Transit Hub, make sure to check the local transit schedules available at the station or online to quickly connect to your next destination or accommodation within Banff, as there are several shuttle services available to take you into the town or to nearby attractions.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Edmonton to Banff.

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The cheapest way to travel from Edmonton to Banff is by taking a bus. There are multiple bus companies that operate this route, including Greyhound and Brewster Express. The bus journey takes approximately 6 hours and 36 minutes and the fare typically ranges from C$75 to C$123. It's a budget-friendly option for those looking to save money while still enjoying the scenic views during the journey.
The fastest way to travel from Edmonton to Banff is by taking a combination of a flight and a shuttle. This option typically takes around 4 hours and 9 minutes. You can book a flight from Edmonton International Airport to Calgary International Airport, and from there you can take a shuttle to Banff. This option may be more expensive than other modes of transportation, but it will save you a significant amount of travel time.
It is approximately 187 miles from Edmonton to Banff. The road distance is slightly longer, at 260 miles. The journey typically takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. It is advisable to plan for additional time for breaks and rest stops along the way.
The most convenient way to travel from Edmonton to Banff without a car is by taking a bus. You can catch a bus from Edmonton to Canmore, BC, and from there, transfer to another bus that will take you to Banff. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 14 minutes, and the ticket prices range from C$55 to C$178, depending on the bus company and time of travel. This option allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic views along the way without the hassle of driving yourself.
The travel time from Edmonton to Banff is approximately 6 hours and 14 minutes, including transfers. This duration may vary depending on the mode of transportation chosen, such as bus, car, or train. It is important to consider traffic conditions and any potential delays that may affect the overall travel time.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Banff. With 245+ hotels to choose from, you have a wide variety of choices. Prices for hotels in Banff start at C$72 per night, offering options for various budgets. Whether you're looking for a luxury resort or a budget-friendly motel, there's something for everyone in the area. Be sure to book in advance, especially during peak tourism seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.
Yes, you can drive from Edmonton to Banff. The driving distance is approximately 260 miles, and it takes about 4 hours and 22 minutes to complete the journey. The route involves traveling on Highway 16 and Highway 93 to reach Banff. Make sure to plan your trip accordingly, considering traffic conditions and any necessary rest stops along the way.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Edmonton and Banff. However, there are bus services available that involve transfers. The journey starts from Edmonton Downtown - Holiday Inn Express Plaza and requires transfers at Calgary International Airport and Benchlands Trail Overpass. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 6 hours and 14 minutes.
To catch the bus from Edmonton to Banff you will need to go to the Edmonton Downtown - Holiday Inn Express Plaza station. This is where the bus services, operated by Red Arrow, depart from. It is important to arrive at the station early to ensure you have enough time to check in and load your luggage onto the bus. Be sure to have your ticket ready for boarding.
The bus from Edmonton to Banff arrives at the Canmore, BC station. Canmore, BC is a small town located about 30 minutes away from Banff. From Canmore, travelers can take a taxi, shuttle, or even rent a car to reach their final destination in Banff. The Canmore station serves as a convenient transfer point for those traveling from Edmonton to Banff by bus.
To get from the Edmonton Airport to Banff, you have a few transportation options. The fastest and most convenient way is to rent a car at the airport, which takes approximately 3 hours and costs around C$50-C$100. Alternatively, you can take a shuttle bus service, which takes around 4 hours and costs approximately C$120-C$150. Another option is to take a combination of public transportation, such as a bus or taxi, to the Edmonton downtown area, and then take a bus or train from there to Banff. This option may take longer and cost more, so it's recommended to check schedules and fares beforehand.
Air North, Sunwing Airlines, Air Canada, and WestJet are the airlines that offer flights between Edmonton and Banff. These flights typically depart from Edmonton Airport and land at Calgary Airport, which is the closest major airport to Banff. It is recommended to check with each airline for their specific flight schedules and prices when planning your travel.
The fastest way to travel from Edmonton to Banff is by taking a flight from Edmonton Airport to Calgary Airport. The quickest flight duration is approximately 44 minutes. Airlines such as Air North, Sunwing Airlines, Air Canada, and WestJet offer flights on this route. From Calgary Airport, you can then take a shuttle or rent a car to reach Banff, which is about a 1.5-hour drive away.
The flight from Edmonton to Banff is approximately 44 minutes. There are direct flights available from Edmonton Airport to Calgary Airport, which is the closest airport to Banff. The flight time may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and air traffic. It is advisable to check with airlines for the most accurate and up-to-date flight schedules.
The cost of a bus ticket from Edmonton to Banff can range from C$81 to C$120. Prices vary depending on the time of year, the bus company, and the type of ticket purchased. It is recommended to book tickets in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
The cost to drive from Edmonton to Banff by car can vary depending on factors such as gas prices and the type of vehicle you are driving. On average, the cost of gas for this trip is estimated to be around C$75 - C$123. However, keep in mind that this amount may increase if you make any stops or detours along the way.

Trips from Edmonton