July to September is Banff at its best—think turquoise lakes, hiking heaven, and wildlife galore. For snow-dusted magic, visit between December and March.
Banff holidays
Mountainous scenery and National Park surroundings act as the perfect backdrop to this stunning resort. Once you've finished gazing, there's more activities than you can shake an oar at including kayaking, rafting, mountain biking, fishing and skiing. This town has a lot to offer, combining astounding natural beauty with a unique culture and first-class hotels.
Essential information for Banff
Time zone
UK - 7 hours
Language
English
Currency
Canadian Dollar $
Flight time
Indirect
Flight schedule
Flights available with Virgin Atlantic partner airlines
Do I need a visa?
Yes. If you’re arriving into or transiting through Canada by air from either the UK or another destination e.g. the USA, you’ll need an eTA.
Getting around
Good bus service with pick-up points at The Fairmont Banff Springs and Mount Royal Hotel to the 3 mountains (free with your interchangeable lift pass). The public bus service runs into the evening throughout town (extra charge).
Bring an appetite for adventure to the Rockies
Need more travel tips or holiday help?
Give it 3 to 5 days to soak up the views, hit the trails, paddle a lake or two, and snap that must-have mountain selfie. Banff is beauty worth lingering for.
Banff offers more dining, shops, and nightlife, while Lake Louise is all about peace, quiet, and epic scenery. Want it all? Stay in Banff and day-trip to the lake!
From October to March, keep your eyes on the skies—Banff’s long, dark nights are ideal for catching the magical aurora borealis dancing above the Rockies.
It’s about 145 km (90 miles) from Calgary International Airport to Banff—a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive through the foothills and into the mountains.
Yes! Shuttles run daily, with comfy, convenient rides straight from the airport to your Banff hotel. Easy, scenic, and stress-free.
The journey takes around 1 hour 45 minutes, depending on traffic and weather. Sit back, relax, and watch the mountains roll in.