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Chicago, IL, USA to Banff from $184: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chicago, United States of America
to
Banff, Canada

How to Get from Chicago 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.

$184 - Plane, ShuttleBest price
2369 kmDistance
8h 10m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago 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
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
8h  10m
Estimated price
$184-656
Recommended
route map
Distance: 2369 km
Duration: 8h 10m

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Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
58h  14m
Estimated price
$190-1840
Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
58h  14m
Estimated price
$190-1840
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
56h  8m
Estimated price
$190-1840
Company
various
Train
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
11h  41m
Estimated price
$227-841
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
9h  52m
Estimated price
$264-806
Company
various
Train
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
12h  29m
Estimated price
$297-915
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
28h  50m
Estimated price
$1841-1842
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Traveling From Chicago to Banff

Your journey from the bustling city streets of Chicago to the serene landscapes of Banff offers a striking contrast between urban excitement and breathtaking natural beauty.

Best Neighbourhoods in Banff

Banff's neighborhoods each offer unique charms and experiences for visitors.

Banff Avenue
• Lined with shops and restaurants for diverse dining.
• Central access to attractions and stunning mountain views.
Tunnel Mountain
• Peaceful residential area with hiking trails nearby.
• Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Rockies.
Fairmont Banff Springs
• Home to the iconic castle-like hotel.
• Great spot for luxury amenities and golf.

Best Times To Visit Banff's Attractions

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

Lake Louise
Visit early morning for calm waters and fewer tourists.
Moraine Lake
Go in late June for stunning blooms and fewer crowds.
Banff Gondola
Best enjoyed at sunset for breathtaking panoramic views.

Banff Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Banff experiences a diverse climate, with warm summers perfect for hiking and cold winters ideal for skiing, making each season uniquely captivating. Planning your visit around the weather can enhance your outdoor adventures and overall experience.

Dining Recommendations in Banff

Try the elk burger at The Bison Restaurant, where the bold flavors of locally sourced game meat contrast with the urban dining scene of Chicago. Dining in Banff immerses you in a cozy, rustic atmosphere surrounded by stunning mountain views, offering a unique connection to the land and its ingredients.

Chicago - Banff operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
delta.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Calgary

Average Duration
3h 27m
Estimated price
$1846-1847

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Calgary

Average Duration
6h 14m
Estimated price
$1848-1845

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Calgary

Average Duration
7h 13m
Estimated price
$1849-6560

Plane from Chicago Midway to Calgary

Average Duration
7h 10m
Estimated price
$1848-6561

Plane from Chicago Midway to Calgary

Average Duration
7h 58m
Estimated price
$6562-6563
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Calgary

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
$6568-6569

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Calgary

Average Duration
7h
Estimated price
$6568-6569
Website
westjet.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Calgary

Average Duration
3h 27m
Estimated price
$1846-1847

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Calgary

Average Duration
6h 14m
Estimated price
$1848-1845
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Everett Amtrak Station

Average Duration
44h 58m
Estimated price
$8064-1842

Train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$2643-2644
Contact phone
1800.821.531
Website
rockymountaineer.com

Train from Kamloops, BC to Banff, AB

Average Duration
21h
Estimated price
0-0
Bus
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Saint Paul Union Depot

Average Duration
7h 45m
Estimated price
$2648-80630

Bus from Everett Bus Stop to Vancouver

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$2279-22700
Contact phone
+1 403 762 0000
Website
banfftransportation.com

Bus from Calgary Airport to Banff, AB

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

Bus from Calgary Airport to Banff, AB - hotels

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
22701-0

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

Traveling between Chicago 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 the vibrant city of Chicago to the breathtaking wilderness of Banff. Driving 1,779 miles, you'll witness the gradual transition from urban landscapes to the stunning Rocky Mountains. 💰 Explore budget-friendly road trip options with prices ranging from $400 to $600 to reach Banff from Chicago. Pack your essentials, fill up the gas tank, and set off on a memorable adventure through the heart of North America. 🏔️ Over a span of approximately 28 hours and 50 minutes, immerse yourself in the beauty of the Canadian Rockies as you navigate through picturesque landscapes, making unforgettable memories along the way to Banff.
Average price
$400 - $600
🌄 Take your time to soak in the beauty of the journey that takes approximately 3 days and 8 hours. With Amtrak and Rocky Mountaineer operating the train services, you are in for a comfortable and unforgettable travel experience from the bustling city of Chicago to the serene wilderness of Banff.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Banff, AB station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Chicago to Banff, ensure you check the onboard dining options. Amtrak offers a Café Car where you can purchase meals, snacks, and beverages. The menu includes a selection of hot meals, sandwiches, salads, and drinks. If you’re traveling with Via Rail Canada in the Canadian portion, they provide fine dining services in their Prestige and Business Classes, featuring local ingredients and seasonal menus.
• When booking your tickets, be aware of the seating options available. On Amtrak, you can choose from Coach Class (Economy), Business Class, and First Class. Coach Class provides standard seating, while Business Class offers larger seats with more legroom and complimentary amenities. For the Via Rail portion, seating options typically include Economy and Business Class, with Business Class featuring more comfortable seating and complimentary meals.
• Multiple operators manage parts of the route. From Chicago to the U.S.-Canada border, Amtrak is the primary provider. Once in Canada, you'll switch to Via Rail for the scenic part to Banff. For schedules, you can check Amtrak at amtrak.com and Via Rail at viarail.ca Additional useful links include local transport schedules and information about dining options near Banff.
Take a direct flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Calgary Airport, which is the quickest option at 3 hours and 27 minutes. Multiple airlines like WestJet, American Airlines, and Air Canada operate this route, ensuring convenient travel options. 🏞️ From Calgary Airport, it's just a scenic 1.5-hour drive to Banff where stunning views of the Canadian Rockies await. Whether you seek outdoor adventures or relaxing in hot springs, Banff offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities for all travelers.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
Calgary Airport

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Banff.

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The distance between Chicago and Banff is approximately 1472 miles. By train, it would take an estimated time of travel to reach Banff from Chicago. Alternatively, by starting with a flight from Chicago O'Hare and then taking a shuttle, the travel time would be around 8 hours and 20 minutes. On the other hand, if you are driving, the travel time from Banff to Chicago would be around 28 hours and 50 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Chicago to Banff is to fly and then take a shuttle. This option takes around 8 hours and 20 minutes and costs between $180 and $950. If budget is a concern, taking a train and bus combination along with driving is a more affordable choice, although it does take significantly longer, around 37 hours and 49 minutes, and costs between $110 and $490. Ultimately, the choice between these options will depend on individual preferences and priorities.
To travel from Chicago to Banff without using public transportation, you can opt for a road trip. The driving distance between the two destinations is approximately 1779 miles, which takes around 28 hours and 50 minutes. Keep in mind that the prices for such a journey can range from $400 to $600, depending on factors like fuel costs and accommodation along the way.
To travel from Chicago to Banff without a car, your best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 3 days and 8 hours. However, it is important to note that the exact cost of the train ticket may vary depending on the time of travel and class of service. Additionally, there may be additional travel expenses involved such as accommodation and meals during the journey. It is advisable to check with the train operator for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
There is no direct train link between Chicago and Banff. However, there are train services available that include transfers. The journey typically takes approximately 3 days and 8 hours. The services depart from Chicago Union Station and arrive at Banff via Everett Amtrak Station, Vancouver, and Kamloops, BC operated by Amtrak and Rocky Mountaineer.
The flight between Chicago and Banff typically takes around 3 hours and 37 minutes. The quickest option is a direct flight from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Calgary Airport. As for the cost, it can vary depending on the airline and the time of year. On average, a round trip ticket can range from $300 to $700, but prices may go higher during peak travel seasons.
There are 245+ hotels available in Banff, offering a range of options for accommodation. Prices for hotels start at $53 per night, providing affordable choices for travelers. Whether you prefer luxury resorts or budget-friendly motels, Banff has numerous options available to suit different preferences and budgets.

Trips from Chicago