Getting to Banff

The closest airport to Banff is the international airport at Calgary. From here, there are a number of ways to get to the beautiful town of Banff by bus, with services leaving directly from the airport or downtown Calgary. Train travel or hiring a car and driving to Banff using the fantastic highways are other options.

By car

Banff is about a 1 to 2 hour drive from Calgary, which is linked to Banff by the Trans Canada Highway. Drive west heading towards the Banff exit and follow the signs that will lead you to Banff Town. The distance from Calgary to Banff is approximately 130kms. If driving from the United States, the fastest route is from Spokane; connect with Highway 95 and follow the signs. There is a distance of about 600kms between Spokane and Banff.

By rail

A special tourist train, the Rocky Mountaineer, runs between Calgary, Banff and Vancouver. The fares are quite steep, but they include accommodation (at hotels), as the train only travels during the day. Meals are also provided.

By bus

Several bus services, including Greyhound, Red Arrow Coach and National Motor Coaching Systems, provide bus services to Banff. Red Arrow Coach offers daily trips from Calgary, Edmonton and Red Deer to Banff Town. Greyhound has six daily buses that depart from Calgary and five from Vancouver.

There are also scheduled bus services departing from Calgary Airport to Banff. These depart hourly from 10:30 to 00:30 hours, seven days a week, during winter. In summer, hourly daily departures operate from 09:00 to 20:00, with two additional services at 22:00 and 00:00.

There are also private shuttle services at very reasonable rates that can take you straight to Banff from Calgary Airport. The shuttles are usually luxurious vans, which are very comfortable, and the drivers are experienced and obliging. Using a private shuttle provides convenience, privacy and comfort.