Banff, Alberta

Banff, Canada
Photo
by Tobias Alt, Tobi 87
/ CC BY-SA 4.0
Planning a trip to Banff?

Attractions

Hotels

Explore hotels in Banff:

Tours & Activities

Climate & Best time to visit Banff

Climate in Banff:

Number of rainy days:

J Jan
F Feb
M Mar
A Apr
M May
J Jun
J Jul
A Aug
S Sep
O Oct
N Nov
D Dec
10
10
13
13
14
17
14
13
12
11
11
11

Best time to visit Banff:

Late Spring to Early Fall (June to September):

  • Late spring to early fall is the most popular time to visit Alberta. During this period, the weather is pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit (15-26°C) in the lower elevations and cooler temperatures in the mountains. This is the best time for outdoor adventures in the Rocky Mountains, including hiking in Banff and Jasper National Parks, exploring the Icefields Parkway, and wildlife viewing. Summer is also ideal for activities like canoeing, mountain biking, and camping.

Late Fall (October to November):

  • Late fall is a great time for those who prefer quieter visits and cooler weather. The fall foliage in the national parks turns into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, making it ideal for scenic drives and photography. The weather can be chilly, with daytime temperatures ranging from the 40s to 50s Fahrenheit (4-15°C). It's also a good time for elk rutting season.

Winter (December to February):

  • Winter in Alberta is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. The region is renowned for its ski resorts, including Lake Louise and Sunshine Village. The weather can be cold, with daytime temperatures often below freezing, especially in the mountains. This is the best time for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and enjoying cozy winter getaways. The holiday season brings festive events and decorations.

Early Spring (March to May):

  • Early spring is a transitional period with varying weather. While it's not the most popular time for outdoor activities due to lingering snow and melting conditions, it can be a quieter time to visit the national parks. Daytime temperatures start to warm up, ranging from the 30s to 50s Fahrenheit (-1 to 15°C) in the lower elevations. Early spring is also a good time for birdwatching and exploring the towns and cities.

Note on Calgary and Edmonton:

  • Calgary and Edmonton are major cities in Alberta. They offer cultural attractions, dining, and events year-round. If you prefer urban experiences, these cities can be enjoyed any time of the year.

Money & Prices

Currency in Canada:

Canadian dollar (CAD)

How expensive is a trip to Banff?

Eating out:
Simple meal:
16.07 USD
Fast food meal:
9.98 USD
Mid-range meal:
30.75 USD
Bottle of water:
1.18 USD
Soft drink:
2.01 USD
Cappuccino:
3.83 USD
Local Beer:
5.51 USD
Transportation:
Public transport - one way ticket:
2.63 USD
Taxi - 1km:
2.00 USD
Accommodation:
Refer to the Hotels section for the most up-to-date accommodation prices.
* Prices are approximate. Make sure to check the latest exchange rates when planning your trip.

Day Trips

Top Day Trips from Banff:

General information

Canada general information:

Electricity:
Voltage: 120 V, Frequency: 60 Hz
Sockets:
  • Type A (North American/Japanese 2-pin)
  • Type B (American 3-pin)

Visa & Travel Requirements

Check Visa requirements for Canada on Sherpa

Always check with the destination country's embassy for the most up-to-date information on Visa requirements!