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Red Deer, Alberta to Banff, Alberta from $52: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Red Deer, Canada
to
Banff, Canada

How to Get from Red Deer 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.

$52 by busBest price
265 kmDistance
2h 47m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Red Deer 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
3h  55m
Estimated price
$52-75
Recommended
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
1h  15m
Estimated price
$26-40
Cheapest
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
1h  40m
Estimated price
$26-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 265 km
Duration: 2h 47m

See more options

Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
2h  47m
Estimated price
$35-55
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
5h  50m
Estimated price
$81-113
Company
Various
Bus
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
5h  11m
Estimated price
$145-321

Traveling From Red Deer to Banff

The journey from Red Deer to Banff offers a striking contrast between the bustling charm of a central Alberta city and the serene beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

Best Neighbourhoods in Banff

Banff features vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinctive experiences for visitors.

Banff Avenue
• Main street filled with shops and eateries
• Easy access to the Banff Gondola
Tunnel Mountain
• Scenic views of the surrounding mountains
• Close proximity to hiking trails and parks
Whyte Avenue
• Quaint residential area with local charm
• Ideal for art galleries and cozy cafes

Best Times To Visit Banff's Attractions

Timing your visits to Banff’s attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Lake Louise
Visit early in the morning for serene views and fewer crowds.
Banff National Park
Plan trips in late spring or early fall for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
Sulphur Mountain
Late afternoon offers stunning sunset views and a relaxed atmosphere.

Banff Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Banff experiences a mix of warm summers and snowy winters, with temperatures varying greatly throughout the year; visiting in late spring or early fall usually brings pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The weather significantly influences outdoor activities, so being prepared for changes can enhance your travel experience.

Dining in Banff: A Unique Culinary Experience

Try the bison short ribs at The Bison Restaurant, where local ingredients meet a mountain-inspired atmosphere, offering a bold contrast to the culinary scene in Red Deer. This dish not only showcases the rich flavors of Alberta but also provides a dining experience infused with the natural beauty and charm of the Canadian Rockies.

Red Deer - Banff operators

Explore transport companies operating between Red Deer 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 Red Deer, AB - Tim Hortons to Calgary AB - CrossIron Mills

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$26-40

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

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$26-40
Contact phone
1-800-232-1958
Website
https://redarrow.ca/

Bus from Red Deer, AB - Quality Inn to Calgary International Airport

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$29-45
Contact phone
1-888-449-2901
Website
https://banffairporter.com/

Bus from Calgary International Airport to Canmore, BC

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

Bus from Calgary International Airport to Banff, AB

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
$55-80
Contact phone
1-877-769-3287
Website
https://myebus.ca/

Bus from Red Deer - The Quality Inn to Calgary, AB Downtown Ticket Office

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$26-35

Bus from Red Deer - The Quality Inn to Edmonton International Airport

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$23-30
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
$51-0

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

Traveling between Red Deer 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.

Useful tips for bus travellers
• Plan your schedule carefully as there is no direct bus from Red Deer to Banff; your journey will involve a transfer in Calgary, making it essential to check the Rider Express bus schedules at riderexpress.ca to avoid long waits.
• Bring snacks or a light meal for the trip, as food options may be limited during your transfer at Calgary's Westbrook Mall; this way you can save time and enjoy your food while relaxing on the bus.
• Upon arriving at the Banff Mount Royal Hotel station, be prepared for varying temperatures; the weather can shift quickly in the Rockies, so have a light jacket handy and consult the Banff transit map for local transportation options to your accommodation at banff.ca

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Red Deer to Banff.

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The cheapest way to travel from Red Deer to Banff is by taking a bus. You can catch a bus from Red Deer to Calgary, which typically costs between C$41 and C$75. From Calgary, you can then take another bus to Banff, which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour ride. The total travel time from Red Deer to Banff by bus is approximately 4 hours and 55 minutes.
The fastest way to travel from Red Deer to Banff is by driving. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 47 minutes, depending on traffic. The estimated cost for fuel and tolls is around C$47 to C$75, depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency and current gas prices.
The distance between Red Deer and Banff is approximately 172 km. If you were to drive, the road distance would be slightly longer at 265 km. The journey typically takes around 2-3 hours by car, depending on traffic conditions and your chosen route.
The best way to travel from Red Deer to Banff without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus services available that operate between the two cities. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 55 minutes. The cost of the bus ticket ranges from C$68 to C$102, depending on the specific service and time of travel.
The journey from Red Deer to Banff typically takes around 3 hours and 55 minutes, including any necessary transfers.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Banff. Whether you are looking for luxurious hotels or budget-friendly options, Banff has it all. With over 245 hotels to choose from, you are sure to find something that suits your preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Banff start at C$72, giving you a range of choices to explore while planning your stay in this beautiful destination.
Yes, you can drive from Red Deer to Banff. The driving distance between the two destinations is approximately 266 km. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 47 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions. It is a scenic drive through the Canadian Rockies and offers the flexibility to stop and explore other attractions along the way.
Yes, there is no direct bus between Red Deer and Banff. However, there are bus services available that involve transfers in Calgary. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 55 minutes, including the transfers. The bus departs from Red Deer - Tim Hortons and arrives at Banff - Mount Royal Hotel via Calgary AB - CrossIron Mills.
To catch the bus from Red Deer to Banff you will need to go to the Red Deer - Tim Hortons station. This is the departure point for the bus services operated by The Canada Bus.
The Red Deer to Banff bus operated by The Canada Bus arrives at the Banff - Mount Royal Hotel station. This station is conveniently located in the heart of Banff, making it easy for travelers to access nearby accommodations and attractions. From the Mount Royal Hotel station, visitors can explore the stunning natural beauty of Banff National Park or visit the charming shops and restaurants in the town of Banff.
Air North, Sunwing Airlines, Air Canada, and WestJet offer flights from Edmonton Airport to Calgary Airport. From Calgary, you can then take a shuttle or bus service to Banff.
The fastest way to get from Red Deer to Banff is by taking a flight from Edmonton Airport to Calgary Airport. This direct flight takes 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 travel the remaining distance to Banff.
The flight from Red Deer to Banff typically involves a layover in Edmonton and takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The quickest option is to take a direct flight from Edmonton Airport to Calgary Airport, which only takes 44 minutes.
The cost of a bus ticket from Red Deer to Banff typically ranges from C$70 to C$102.
The cost to drive from Red Deer to Banff will vary. On average, you can expect to spend around C$47 to C$75 for fuel, depending on the type of vehicle and current gas prices.