In Banff, you have a wide range of accommodation options depending on your preferences and budget: Downtown Banff is the most convenient area to stay, close to shops, restaurants, and transit. Recommended hotels here include:
- Moose Hotel and Suites: Known for comfortable rooms with fireplaces and AC, rooftop hot tubs, and sauna with mountain views
- Mount Royal Hotel: Historic hotel centrally located on Banff Avenue, offering easy access to everything in town
- Elk + Avenue Hotel: Mid-range hotel on Banff Avenue with underground parking and close to dining options
- Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa: Budget-friendly with basic but comfortable rooms, spa, hot pool, and fitness facilities
- The Dorothy Motel: Boutique motel just outside downtown, pet-friendly with thoughtful amenities for pets
Hostels and Budget Options include:
- HI Banff Alpine Centre: Hostel with dorms, private rooms, bar, and restaurant.
- Banff International Hostel: Simple dorms and private rooms with mountain views and free breakfast.
- Samesun Banff: Hostel with free WiFi, breakfast, lively bar, and guest kitchen.
- Canmore Hostel/Alpine Club of Canada (near Banff): Affordable hostel in a remote wooded area, good for budget travelers
Mid-Range and Upscale Hotels :
- Basecamp Suites Banff: Suites with good reviews and central location
- Peaks Hotel & Suites: Rustic-chic hotel with mountain views, LGBTQ+ friendly.
- Fairmont Banff Springs: The most luxurious and iconic hotel in the park, located on the outskirts with a castle-like experience
- Juniper Hotel: Located near Mount Norquay, quieter location with shuttle service to downtown
Unique and Family-Friendly Stays :
- Baker Creek Mountain Resort: Romantic log cabin experience on the Bow Valley Parkway
- Hidden Ridge Resort: Apartments suitable for large groups and families
- Grand Rockies Resort (Airbnb option): Good for families, located in Canmore close to Banff
Other Considerations :
- Staying downtown offers walkability and access to amenities but can be busy and expensive
- Outskirts like Tunnel Mountain and near Banff Springs Hotel offer more privacy and quieter settings but may require transport
In summary, for first-time visitors wanting convenience and comfort, Moose Hotel and Suites or Mount Royal Hotel in downtown Banff are excellent choices. For budget travelers, hostels like HI Banff Alpine Centre or Banff International Hostel provide affordable options. For luxury, Fairmont Banff Springs is unmatched. Families and groups might prefer apartment-style accommodations like Hidden Ridge Resort or nearby Canmore
