Before traveling to any place a little research is crucial and that’s what I do by myself before any trip as well. In this article you will know how you can explore the Banff in the most effective way so that you can get the amazing experience and your trip get successful and you money expenditure becomes worth it. In my opinion I will definitely tell you the Banff tour would be one of the best experiences in your life. Banff is located in Canada in the South Western part of Alberta province surrounded by Canadian Rockies.
How to get there and where to stay?
You can reach one of the largest cities Calgary or Edmonton in Alberta by Air from any place in Canada or outside. Or if you are living inside Canada and having your own car you can reach Calgary through a drive. If you have your own car you can go to Banff through an around 1 and half drive from Calgary which is about 130 km. You can also rent a car from Calgary but remember this is expensive as well. I also have seen travelers renting trucks if they are 1 or 2 members for a budget friendly trip. You can also take shuttle Buses from Calgary to Banff.
If the question arises where to stay then you have several options depending on your budget. You can book a hotel in the banff city though it’s slightly expensive. Or you can stay in Canmore which is the nearest city of Banff approximately 19 km away, remember pre booking is required to find the cheapest options. You can stay either in hostels as a few available in Canmore which may be more budget friendly if you are comfortable with it.
Which places to visit and Things to do? – Our Picks
Before starting to ask about the places of Banff I would like to tell you to have a short trip within Canmore if you are staying there. You can get spectacular views of mountains with the downtown walk and you would be able to encounter the mountain lives. You can experience different restaurants with different foods. You will get some beautiful places here including some hikes, riverside walks, helicopter tours etc.
Let’s talk about Banff, Firstly you can visit Sulphur mountain by Banff Gondola, One of the most popular attractions in Banff. This Gondola will get you on the peak of Sulphur mountain from where you will get the beautiful views with six different peaks of Rockies and Mountains. You will also get a spectacular view of Banff City. You can spend some beautiful moments in rooftop dining with a coffee and feel the nature.
Secondly, Lake Luise and Moraine Lake are some of my other favorite places. If you are a person who loves photography and always keeps memories alive with beautiful captures, then Lake Louise is the best place for you with its beautiful nature. This is one of the most captured places in Canada and the world. A soothing view to take a deep breath with blue glacier water, which is backdropped with mountains and the Rockies. Though this place can be traveled in any season of the year, the main season to travel in the summer is for beautiful photography and warm weather with so many outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and stand up paddle boarding. Lake Louise is also ideal for traveling in the winter if You are a fan of skating, skiing, and other winter activities.
Lake Minnewanka, Another beautiful lake in the Banff which is almost similar to Lake Louise and you can enjoy the activities like canoeing, kayaking, boating etc with less price compared to Lake Louise so if you are planning a trip budget friendly then you can keep it in your mind. My recommendation is taking the cruise tour in Lake Minnewanka, which I felt was amazing, especially when the boat is stopped in the center of Lake to feel the nature with beautiful view and calm water silently.
Lastly, The Banff City, The Beautiful city with spectacular landscapes of Rockies. The busiest area within the park, you may be able to interact with some wildlife ahead like deer, black bear etc. Enjoy the mountain life with various delicious foods in different restaurants. You can explore the various shopping malls. One of my recommendations is taking the hike in Tunnel Mountain Trails, which is located just around the city, which will get you on the peak of the mountain and will give you some beautiful views of Banff city and mountains.