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Where to Stay in Banff National Park: 18 Best Hotels (2024)
Looking for where to stay in Banff National Park?
Whether traveling to Banff National Park for leisure, business or just to witness the great Canadian Rockies, it is a beautiful place to spend time outdoors.
Banff has great Canadian food, National historical sites, beautiful turquoise water lakes, cute mountain towns, and great skiing!
I have visited Alberta and Banff National Park many times and found a few areas worth exploring!
But you definitely need a comfortable place to stay in Banff National Park or a nearby town.
To make your hotel research easier, I’ve compiled all the best hotels in Banff National Park, so you don’t have to do it yourself!
My Top 3 Picks: Where to Stay in Banff National Park
#1 TOP PICK
#2 PICK
#3 PICK
Where to Stay in Banff National Park: Downtown Area
Downtown Banff is a mountain resort town in the heart of Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada.
If you wish to be close to everything, the downtown area is the best place to stay since the most popular areas of the National Park are just a short drive away.
Banff Town is also a hub for adventure. The town puts you at the heart of beautiful rocky mountain peaks, turquoise glacier lakes, local wildlife, and plenty of cool experiences. There is plenty of outdoor sports such as hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding you can do too.
If you are a bit more adventurous, you can go white water rafting, dog sledding, or take a helicopter ride just to name a few!
1. Fairmont Banff Springs
⭐️ RATING: 8.6/10 Stars | LOCATION: Spray Avenue | ✅ Book it!
The Banff Springs Hotel is a famous landmark of Banff. You can even spot this hotel in some pictures of Banff while roaming the internet!
Fairmont Hotels have an excellent reputation worldwide, and this location is no exception!
This Banff accommodation features two swimming pools, one indoor pool, and one outdoor heated pool. There is also a spa where you can enjoy top-notch treatments.
Banff Springs Hotel features 11 on-site restaurants, 14 shops, a bowling alley, a tennis court, and even a fitness center.
“We had everything we needed at the hotel. Excellent FB and staff service. Easy transportation to ski resorts and downtown. Several shopping stores to choose from on property. Indoor/outdoor pools. Hotel offered activities for all ages. Excellent hiking around hotel, ice skate rink.” – Laurissa from Turks & Caicos Island (Read more reviews)
If you are visiting Banff in the winter, guests can book ski passes and rent equipment directly through the hotel concierge. The hotel provides shuttle services to and from the airport and also offers transportation to nearby ski resorts such as Norquay, Sunshine, and Lake Louise.
Banff Springs provides excellent customer service and, of course, is located in one of the most beautiful areas of the Rocky Mountains! Transportation is super convenient to get around. You can either use their shuttle service or the Banff transit.
2. Moose Hotel and Suites
⭐️ RATING: 8.9/10 Stars | LOCATION: Banff Avenue | ✅ Book it!
The Moose Hotel and Suites has an excellent location, only a minute’s walk from the heart of downtown Banff.
You can spend your evenings relaxing at the spa center, the indoor pool, or one of the two heated rooftop pools with a great view of the Rockies to enjoy.
The Moose Hotel and Suites has an on-site Italian restaurant, and breakfast is available a la carte. The hotel also offers free parking and complimentary WiFi.
“Great hotel and location is very central. Stayed in a King suite which was very comfortable and well equipped. Hotel facilities are great and staff were very friendly. Would recommend this place to anyone.” – Melissa from Cayman Islands (Read more reviews)
The rooms are very comfortable in a cozy environment, and if you’re looking to ski while vacationing in this hotel, there is a free shuttle service to Sunshine Mountain and Lake Louise.
Plus, if you’re not tired from your explorations at the end of the day, there is a fitness center where guests can work out.
Guests highly recommend this property!
3. Rimrock Resort Hotel
⭐️ RATING: 8.5/10 Stars | LOCATION: Mountain Avenue | ✅ Book it!
The Rimrock Resort is a short six-minute drive from Downtown Banff. The hotel is right across the street from the Banff Upper Hot Springs and 500m from the Banff Gondola and Sulpher Mountain trail.
The location means this hotel has spectacular views of picturesque landscapes.
“I like the view, space, staff, food, it was a lifetime experience for both myself and my husband. I also enjoyed the Gondala and hot springs were close and available.” – Tammy from Canada (Read more reviews)
But you’ll also enjoy free WIFI, a fitness center, on-site parking, ski storage, a spa and wellness center, and a restaurant. There is even an indoor pool for you and a hot tub to relax at the end of the day.
Also, if you want to play golf or go skiing on your trip to Banff, Rimrock Resort is a convenient place to stay. Banff Springs Golf Course is just seven minutes away, and the Norquay Ski Resort is 18 minutes away.
4. Hidden Ridge Resort
⭐️ RATING: 8/10 Stars | LOCATION: Hidden Ridge Way Box | ✅ Book it!
Among the best places to stay in Banff with families, Hidden Ridge Resort has many perks to accommodate your family’s needs.
This sustainable property is located in the secluded area of tunnel mountain. The hotel offers fully furnished kitchen apartments with a fireplace and a balcony.
“The outdoor maintenance man from Edmonton did a great job and was very friendly. The front desk staff were always friendly and helpful.The resort has several BBQ’s, outdoor year round hot tub and pool, wood burning fireplaces, and a world class view!” – Dwayne from Canada (Read more reviews)
You’ll have stunning views of Banff’s city center and the surrounding mountains from your apartment.
Other amenities at Hidden Ridge Resort include free parking, a free shuttle to downtown Banff, an outdoor hot tub, and BBQ facilities year-round for guests!
You are sure to have a good time while staying at this hotel and the staff’s friendliness will amaze you!
5. Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa
⭐️ RATING: 7.7/10 Stars | LOCATION: Banff Avenue | ✅ Book it!
If you’re looking for a place to stay in the heart of Banff city center, the Banff Caribou Lodge and Spa is only a ten-minute walk from downtown.
The hotel has an on-site spa (the Earth Spa) and a restaurant (The Keg Steakhouse). If you like meat, you’ll love the steaks here, as they are some of the best in Banff!
“Perfect location, walking distance to downtown. Was excellent that we can bring our puppy, he was more than welcome.” – Anaberta from Panama (Read more reviews)
The hotel also offers free parking, free WiFi, a fitness center, and free passes to the Banff Transit, so it will be easier for you to move around the city. If you have a furry friend, this hotel is pet-friendly!
There is also an indoor swimming pool to enjoy and a heated pool. The Lodge is also located only 5.6 km (3.5 mi) from the Gondola.
6. Peaks Hotel and Suites
⭐️ RATING: 9/10 Stars | LOCATION: Lynx Street| ✅ Book it!
The Peaks Hotel and Suites is right in Banff city center, situated along the Bow River, so there is a nice blend of mountain and city views.
It’s a relatively new hotel with a modern aesthetic and friendly atmosphere. The staff is happy and ready to help you out with everything you need for your stay!
The property has a bunch of different rooms to choose from, but certain rooms offer views of the surrounding mountains. Book the “preferred view with balcony” for the best view if available.
“Love the cleanliness and the look of the hotel. staff was friendly and helpful. close to everything in downtown banff.” – Janice from USA (Read more reviews)
The hotel does not have its own pool, but you can cross the street to its sister hotel to enjoy a swimming pool, hot tub, and steam room.
The facilities are very clean and well-maintained. You’ll have a worry-free stay while spending some great time outdoors exploring Banff National Park.
7. Mount Royal Hotel
⭐️ RATING: 8.4/10 Stars | LOCATION: Banff Avenue | ✅ Book it!
The Mount Royal Hotel is centrally located in Banff, just 4 km (2.5 mi) from the Upper Hot Springs and a five-minute drive from the Banff Gondola.
Mount Royal Hotel is also close to Lake Minnewanka, just 14 km (8.7 mi) away.
“The property has a gorgeous view and is close to all main Banff attractions. It looks just how it does in the pictures and the beds are very comfortable. Parking is difficult to find but that’s not a huge issue. I would definitely stay here again as it’s very reasonably priced for the quality.” – Whitney from Canada (Read more reviews)
The hotel offers an on-site restaurant, free WIFI, ski storage for skiing or snowboarding equipment, dry cleaning, and private parking if you drive to the hotel. If you don’t have a car, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle provided by this hotel and the shuttle to nearby ski resorts.
One of the best parts of this hotel is its sauna and hot tub, which are incredible after a long day of hiking or skiing!
This property is affordable for everyone. You’ll have plenty to enjoy for a reasonable price too!
8. Elk + Avenue Hotel
⭐️ RATING: 8.2/10 Stars | LOCATION: Banff Avenune | ✅ Book it!
The Elk + Avenue hotel is right on Banff Avenue, within walking distance of everything in downtown Banff, so there are many places to eat and things to see nearby!
Some of the best things to do in Banff are relatively close to Elk + Avenue Hotel, including the Banff Gondola (13 minutes away), Lake Minnewanka (20 minutes away), and Lake Louise (37 minutes away).
“Everything was fantastic! The rooms were great! The restaurant on site was amazing. The staff was so helpful and genuine.” – Anne from Spain (Read more reviews)
The hotel also has an onsite restaurant, free WIFI, and free parking. Guests have been raving about the delicious food served at the on-site restaurant! You’ll have to try it!
You can book rooms with mountain views for a nice view in the evening, and be sure to spend some time in the sauna and hot tub to enjoy the full experience.
9. Banff Inn
⭐️ RATING: 8.2/10 Stars | LOCATION: Banff Avenue | ✅ Book it!
The Banff Inn is a relatively affordable hotel on the main street throughout Banff town with great customer service!
If you’re traveling during the winter, it’s easy to get to Sunshine Ski Village, and people driving into the town love the underground heated parking (no need for ice scraping after a night of snow).
“Good value. Great location. Friendly reception. Good customer service.” – Augustinus from Canada (Read more reviews)
The property has a steam room, a sauna, a hot tub, ski storage, and free WIFI, which is a lot of value for one of the most affordable places to stay in downtown Banff.
A local eatery called Carlito Pizzeria is inside the Banff Inn, serving delicious pizzas, sandwiches, and salads.
10. Buffalo Mountain Lodge
⭐️ RATING: 7.9/10 Stars | LOCATION: Tunnel Mountain Drive | ✅ Book it!
Buffalo Mountain Lodge is another excellent hotel in downtown Banff. It’s right on the slopes of tunnel mountain, a 20-minute walk from the town center. It’s perfect for enjoying the sights while heading downtown!
“One of the best value for money facilities in Banff. The room was comfortable and clean. The in room fire was wonderful but the bath tub and the balcony views were exceptional.” – Jennifer from Ireland (Read more reviews)
The property has a restaurant on-site, a fitness center, free parking, and free WIFI. Rooms are also equipped with a fireplace.
Buffalo Mountain Lodge is a great choice if you are looking for a luxury hotel with a lot of value! Every room is clean and well-maintained. Beds are also known to be comfortable.
Guests comment that the Buffalo Mountain Lodge has exceeded their expectations in many opportunities!
11. Banff Aspen Lodge
⭐️ RATING: 7.9/10 Stars | LOCATION: | ✅ Book it!
If you are looking for the best places to stay in Banff for couples, the Banff Aspen Lodge could be the best option.
The hotel has a lot to offer, from a hot tub to free WIFI and a complimentary continental breakfast. You’ll also enjoy on-site laundry facilities and ski storage available for all guests.
“Great location and loved the hot tub! Good size room with a lovely mountain view.” – Shevaun from the United Kingdom (Read more reviews)
Your room will also have a balcony or patio for relaxing with a view and enjoying some time together in the evening. Sip a glass of wine while enjoying the views and make it a date!
And similar to all hotels in this area, you’ll also be close to popular attractions like Banff Springs Golf Course, the Banff Gondola, and Norquay Ski Resort.
12. Tunnel Mountain Resort
⭐️ RATING: 8.5/10 Stars | LOCATION: Tunnel Mountain Road | ✅ Book it!
If you’re looking for a hotel near Banff’s downtown area with a view, Tunnel Mountain Resort is one of the best options, situated right along Tunnel Mountain Road. The property is close to town but offers insane, panoramic views of Banff National Park. You’ll have a small drive to get to downtown but it is totally worth it!
The resort has an indoor pool, a sauna, a fitness center, BBQ facilities, a children’s playground, free parking, and free WIFI.
“The room was spacious and comfortable. The kitchen had everything we needed. Although it is not right in town, it was just a couple of minutes’ drive to get anywhere.” – Renee from Australia (Read more reviews)
Each room has a private balcony or patio; some units even have a fireplace. You’ll have a fully furnished kitchen so you won’t be missing anything if you want to cook your meals!
Among the activities nearby, you’re only five minutes away from great fishing and skiing areas.
You can go white water rafting or do a dog sledding tour, with pick-up available directly from the hotel.
🏩 Check Prices and Availability!
Where to stay in Banff National Park: Sunshine Village
Best for Skiing & Snowboarding
If you are wondering where to stay in Banff for skiing, Sunshine Village is the top skiing and snowboarding destination in Banff National Park. The ski season in Banff is one of the longest seasons in North America, starting around mid-November and continuing into late May.
The area feels like a secluded ski town, yet it is just 20 minutes away from downtown Banff, so you can quickly get to everything downtown.
Almost all hotels in Sunshine Village offer free shuttles to and from the slopes, so you don’t even need a car while staying here!
This part of Banff is still worth visiting if you’re not a skier or snowboarder. Sightseers can enjoy the quaint village, and you can buy tickets to ride the Angel Express chairlift or Standish Express chairlift for 360-degree views of the Canadian Rockies.
Things to do in Sunshine Village
- Ski or snowboard at Sunshine Ski Resort
- Mount Assiniboine (the highest peak of the Canadian Rockies)
- Ride the Angel Express
- Ride the Standish Express chairlifts
- Snowshoe the sunshine meadow
13. Sunshine Mountain Lodge
⭐️ RATING: 8.5/10 Stars | LOCATION: Sunshine Access Road | ✅ Book it!
If you’re looking for a hotel in Sunshine Village, the Sunshine Mountain Lodge is the best Hotel in the ski village.
The rooms are very comfortable, spacious, and the location is stunning! It is located at the top of the mountain.
This lodge is a ski-in ski-out property directly on the mountain. It is the only ski-in ski-out hotel in Banff National Park. The Sunshine Gondola is just 150m away, and the shopping center/grill is only 250m away.
“Very comfortable room with a great view of the snowy trees. Great location, been the only ski-in/out option in Banff. Good sauna and hot pool facilities.” – Luciano from Brazil (Read more reviews)
The property has an outdoor hot pool, spa services, a dry sauna, a fitness center, and free parking. You can also order room service and utilize their ski storage.
The only downside of this lodge is that you can only access it through the gondola. So once the ski resort closes at night, you cannot return to the mountain’s base. However, it is a great property to stay a couple of nights while enjoying the amazing skiing conditions.
🏩 Check Prices and Availability!
Where to stay in Banff National Park: Lake Louise
Best for Hiking and Picturesque Views
Lake Louise is located a little further into Banff National Park. It’s known worldwide for its beautiful mountain peaks and dreamy turquoise water.
You can also find some of the best hiking trails in Banff National Park, starting from the Lake Louise trailhead.
This section of Banff National Park is also an excellent area for seeing wildlife. You might just see grizzlies, black bears, lynxes, mooses, mountain goats, elks, and deer!
Things to do in Lake Louise
- Visit Moraine Lake
- Canoe at Lake Louise
- Go Hike Sentinel Pass
- Go Horseback Riding
- Ski at Lake Louise Ski Resort
- Ice skate on Lake Louise
- Hike Paradise Valley and the Giant steps
- Hike Wenkchemna Pass
14. Fairmont Château Lake Louise
⭐️ RATING: 8.3/10 Stars | LOCATION: Lake Louise Drive | ✅ Book it!
If you’re looking to stay in Lake Louise, the best place money can buy is a room at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
The hotel has a fantastic location right on the shores of Lake Louise, offering stunning mountain views and panoramic views of the turquoise lake and Victoria Glacier directly from your room.
You can enjoy the heated indoor swimming pool, a health club facility, free WIFI, and a full-service spa and hair salon.
“espresso in room! activities do accessible . lovely upstairs lounge for games . and of course the skating and skiing on the lake as well as transfer to the ski hill by bus.” – Maureen from Canada (Read more reviews)
And if you’re looking for some dining options in the area, the Fairmont has EIGHT on-site dining options.
Guests rave about the incredible service and the once-in-a-lifetime experience of staying at this hotel. In addition to the beautiful views, it’s also really convenient to go canoeing or ice skating on Lake Louise, and just a few minutes from Lake Louise Ski Resort. You won’t miss out on any activities even if you’re staying in this property! There is plenty to keep you occupied around Lake Louise!
15. Lake Louise Inn
⭐️ RATING: 7.6/10 Stars | LOCATION: Village Road | ✅ Book it!
The Lake Louise Inn is another lovely property to stay at in this area. Each room has a balcony, a fireplace in the room, and free ski storage.
This hotel also has a heated indoor pool, hot tubs, a fitness center, BBQ facilities, free parking, and free WIFI.
There are also two on-site restaurants, so you won’t have to go far searching for great food.
“Very homey and spacious for a group of friends. The staff are excellently providing all the things we requested.” – Mary from Phillipines (Read more reviews)
If you visit during ski season, you can take advantage of the free shuttle to Lake Louise Ski Resort, and there is even a tune-up center at the hotel in case you have issues with your gear.
The staff is known for being exceptionally helpful and friendly, so if you need something, let them know, and they will be happy to help out!
🏩 Check Prices and Availability!
Where to Stay in Banff National Park: Canmore
Best for Peace, Quiet, and Away from Heavy Tourism.
Canmore is a small town between Banff and Calgary, known for the Three Sisters Summits and Ha Ling Peak. Canmore is located just outside the entrance to Banff National Park. You’ll only be a short drive away from the Park’s entrance when visiting.
Like Banff, there are many activities, great restaurants, and gorgeous views of the Canadian Rockies. Some of the best hiking trails in the area are the Grassi Lakes Trail and Heart Mountain Horseshoe Trail.
If you are on a budget, Canmore tends to have lower prices on lodging, so it could help you save some money to stay in this area if you don’t mind driving to the park every day!
Things to do in Canmore
- Three Sisters
- Grassi Lakes
- Canmore Cave Tours
- Canmore Museum and Science Center
- Ha Ling peak
- Heart Mountain Horseshoe Trail
16. The Malcolm Hotel
⭐️ RATING: 8.9/10 Stars | LOCATION: Spring Creek Drive | ✅ Book it!
If you’re looking for a unique place to stay near Banff, this luxury property is a great option. It’s pricey but absolutely worth the splurge!
In addition to exceptional views, The Malcolm Hotel has an in-house restaurant, BBQ facilities, a fitness center, free parking, and free WIFI.
“The location was beautiful, the rooms were spacious, and i enjoyed that there was a balcony attached to the room.” – Latisha from Canada (Read more reviews)
There are many different rooms available to book, all of which are clean, spacious, and minimal. They also have a patio so you can enjoy some time outside of your room.
And at the end of the day, you can soak in their heated outdoor swimming pool or enjoy the mountain views from one of the hotel’s rooftop hot tubs.
17. Solara Resort by Bellstar Hotels
⭐️ RATING: 8/10 Stars | LOCATION: Kananaskis Way | ✅ Book it!
The Solara Resort is another excellent place to stay in Canmore. If you’re looking for a home away from home, this is where you’ll want to stay.
This sustainable property is only a five-minute drive from the Canmore golf and curling club, ten minutes away from downtown Banff and a five-minute walk to restaurants and shops in downtown Canmore!
The rooms have a balcony and fully equipped kitchens. You’ll even have a dining area, washer, and dryer in every room!
Some suites even have mountain views, but these rooms are typically more expensive than those without a view.
“This hotel is located walking distance from Canmore town centre (about 10 minutes walk and you can go different ways) or you can catch a free bus in. The area is extremely clean and safe and surrounded by wild bunnies! The property is really nice and is almost like a home from home. ” – Kelly from United Kingdom (Read more reviews)
There is also a spa center, hot tubs, and an indoor swimming pool.
If you are looking for a quiet hotel in the Banff area, this is where you should come. It’s in a less touristy section of the park, and there are even quiet time restrictions to ensure you have a peaceful night’s sleep.
Canmore is also a very safe place to stay so you won’t have to worry about that.
18. Stoneridge Mountain Resort
⭐️ RATING: 8.6/10 Stars | LOCATION: Lincon Park | ✅ Book it!
The Stoneridge Mountain Resort is a beautiful resort in Canmore, just 15 minutes from downtown Banff. Although it is not technically in the National Park, it still has impressive views of the Canadian Rockies.
At this resort, your room will have a full kitchen, a deck or patio, free WIFI, and a gas fireplace. Rooms are spacious and are kept very clean at all times.
“very nice hotel. big rooms very clean and very modern. the staff was very friendly.” – Abigael from Israel (Read more reviews)
There is even a BBQ grill on your private deck!
The property also has an outdoor heated pool, hot tubs, a fitness center, and free parking for all guests.
Where to Stay in Banff National Park: FAQs
What city to stay in when visiting Banff National Park?
The best city to stay in when visiting Banff National Park is downtown Banff, especially if it is your first visit. This city is centrally located, making exploring different areas of the park easy. There are also plenty of places to dine and shopping opportunities here.
What month is best in Banff?
The best month to see Banff is June to August and December to March. Those are Banff’s National Park’s best times to visit to have the most enjoyable weather.
The best weather for outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and camping, is the warmer months in the summer. Of course, winter sports are best between December to March. You’ll have the best winter and snow conditions on the slopes.
Is it better to stay in Banff or Calgary?
If you want to spend time in Banff National Park, you should definitely stay in Banff. Calgary is the largest city in Alberta, so it has more options for food and entertainment, but it’s 90 minutes from Banff, so you will have to drive 3 hours roundtrip each day to visit the National Park.
How far apart are Banff and Lake Louise?
Banff and Lake Louise are 61 km (37.8 mi) apart. The drive takes approximately 40 minutes on the Trans-Canadian Highway. You could also consider taking the Bow Valley Parkway next to the highway for a more scenic drive but takes about an hour.
What major city is near Banff, Canada?
Calgary, Alberta, is the closest major city to Banff and Banff National Park at 126 km (78 mi) and is the largest city in Alberta. The drive to Calgary from Banff takes about 1.5 hours, so you can easily take a day trip to the city from Banff.
Is Banff a walkable city?
At just 3.94 square kilometers, downtown Banff is a very walkable city. You could even walk from the city to the Upper Hot Springs or the Banff Gondola. However, to venture further into the mountains and national park, you will need access to a car or the public transit system.
What US city is closest to Banff?
The US city closest to Banff is Spokane, Washington. The city is 575 kilometers (358 miles) away from Banff National Park, which takes nearly 7 hours by car. This is fine for a long road trip, but it doesn’t make sense to fly into Spokane in order to visit Banff National Park.
Final Thoughts: Where to Stay in Banff National Park
With this many choices for different hotels in and around Banff National Park, I hope this has helped make it easy for you to decide where to stay in Banff National Park!
The best hotels to stay in Banff National Park are the Fairmont Banff Springs and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for their history, stunning views, and great reputation.
But you can’t go wrong with any of these Banff National Park Hotels.
No matter what, you will be surrounded by beautiful mountains, and there is so much to do and see in the area (in all seasons) that you’re sure to have a great trip wherever you stay!
And if you are looking for some things to do in Banff, here are the best 19 hikes in Banff National Park to get you started on this amazing trip!
More Things To Do in Alberta
- 15 Hotels in Banff With Private Hot Tubs You Won’t Want To Miss!
- Scenic Jasper to Lake Louise Drive via Icefields Parkway: 19 Best Stops
- 19 Best Hikes in Banff National Park
- 5 Best Banff Helicopter Tours
- Banff National Park Itinerary: 1, 3, and 5 Day Guides
- 7 Best Banff White Water Rafting Tours
- 12 Best Jasper Helicopter Tours
Read More about Hotels in Canada:
- Where to Stay in Vancouver, British Columbia
- 3 Best Halifax Hotels with Waterslides 2023
- 15 Best Hotels in Toronto with Balconies
- 15 Hotels in Banff With Private Hot Tubs You Won’t Want To Miss!
- 15 Best Hotels in Toronto with Private Hot Tubs
Canada Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Canada travel insurance?
100% YES! — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!
💧Can you drink the water in Canada?
Yes — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.
🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?
Yes — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. (Read more)
📲 Will my phone work in Canada?
Maybe — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?
My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com. For hostels, I use Hostel World. If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).
Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?
For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
🎫 Do I need a visa for Canada?
Likely Not — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do (check here!). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.
