Calgary travel Guide

Calgary travel guide

National Airports

Calgary is one of the most popular cities in Canada, with thousands of visitors flocking to the city every year. As a result, Calgary has become an important hub for air travel in Western Canada, with several national airports serving the city and its surrounding areas.

Calgary International Airport (YYC): Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the primary airport serving Calgary and is located just 17km northeast of downtown Calgary. The airport serves as a hub for WestJet and is also a focus city for Air Canada. It offers flights to numerous domestic and international destinations, including the United States, Mexico, Europe, and Asia. YYC offers a wide range of services and amenities for passengers, including shops, restaurants, lounges, and car rental agencies.

Edmonton International Airport (YEG): Edmonton International Airport (YEG) is located about 280km north of Calgary and is the second-busiest airport in Alberta. While it is not as close to Calgary as YYC, it is still a popular option for travelers looking for alternative flights to Calgary. YEG offers flights to numerous destinations across Canada, the United States, Mexico, and Europe, and features a range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and car rental agencies.

Red Deer Regional Airport (YQF): Red Deer Regional Airport (YQF) is located about 145km north of Calgary and offers flights to several destinations in Western Canada. The airport primarily serves smaller aircraft and is a popular choice for private aviation. The airport features a restaurant, a lounge, and car rental agencies.

Medicine Hat Regional Airport (YXH): Medicine Hat Regional Airport (YXH) is located about 290km southeast of Calgary and serves as the primary airport for Medicine Hat and the surrounding areas. While it is not as busy as YYC, it offers several flights to destinations across Western Canada and the United States. The airport features a restaurant, a lounge, and car rental agencies.

Lethbridge County Airport (YQL): Lethbridge County Airport (YQL) is located about 215km south of Calgary and serves as the primary airport for Lethbridge and the surrounding areas. The airport offers several flights to destinations across Western Canada and is primarily used for private aviation. It features a restaurant and car rental agencies.

Trains in Calgary

Calgary, the largest city in the province of Alberta, Canada, is well-connected by rail to other major cities in the country. There are two main train stations in Calgary: the historic Canadian Pacific Railway station in downtown Calgary and the Calgary Rocky Mountaineer Station, which is located in the northeast part of the city.

The Canadian Pacific Railway station in downtown Calgary is an iconic landmark and a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of rail travel. The station was built in 1892 and served as the main hub for the Canadian Pacific Railway in Western Canada for many years. Today, the station has been renovated and restored to its original glory and serves as a venue for events and special occasions. Visitors can take a tour of the station and learn about the history of the railway in Canada.

The Calgary Rocky Mountaineer Station is the departure point for the Rocky Mountaineer train, one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. The train travels through the Rocky Mountains and offers stunning views of the Canadian wilderness. The Rocky Mountaineer train has several routes, including the First Passage to the West, which takes passengers from Vancouver to Banff, and the Journey Through the Clouds, which travels from Vancouver to Jasper.

In addition to the Rocky Mountaineer train, there are several other train services that operate out of Calgary. VIA Rail, Canada’s national passenger rail service, operates several routes that pass through Calgary, including the Canadian, which travels from Toronto to Vancouver. Amtrak also operates a daily train service between Seattle and Vancouver that stops in Calgary.

For commuters and travelers looking for a more affordable way to travel, Calgary also has a light rail transit system called the C-Train. The C-Train has two lines that serve the city and the surrounding areas. The Red Line runs from the northwest to the southeast, while the Blue Line runs from the west to the northeast. The C-Train is a convenient and affordable way to get around Calgary and explore the city’s many attractions.

Buses in Calgary

Calgary, the largest city in the province of Alberta, Canada, has an extensive public transit system consisting of buses and light rail transit (LRT) services. The Calgary Transit is the primary public transportation agency that provides efficient and reliable bus services to commuters in Calgary.

Here are some things you need to know about taking the bus in Calgary:

Routes and schedules – Calgary Transit operates more than 160 bus routes throughout the city. You can check the bus route maps and schedules online or use the Transit App to plan your trip. Buses usually run every 15-30 minutes on weekdays and every 20-45 minutes on weekends.

Payment – You can pay your fare in cash, buy a ticket or use a reloadable smart card called the My Fare Card. If you plan to use the bus frequently, purchasing a My Fare Card is the most convenient and cost-effective option.

Accessibility – All Calgary Transit buses are equipped with wheelchair ramps, making them accessible to people with disabilities. Moreover, priority seating is available for seniors and people with disabilities.

Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) – Calgary has a BRT system called MAX, which operates on three routes: MAX Yellow, MAX Purple, and MAX Teal. These buses run every 10 minutes on weekdays, making them a faster and more reliable mode of transportation.

Bike racks – All Calgary Transit buses are equipped with bike racks that can accommodate two bikes. This service is free of charge and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Park and Ride – Calgary Transit also offers Park and Ride services, which allow you to park your car at designated lots and take the bus to your destination. This service is particularly useful for commuters who live far from their workplace or for those who want to avoid the hassle of finding parking downtown.

Overall, taking the bus in Calgary is an affordable and convenient way to get around the city. With an extensive network of bus routes, frequent schedules, and reliable service, Calgary Transit makes it easy for residents and visitors to explore all that this vibrant city has to offer.

How to get to Calgary

Calgary is a major city in Canada and is well connected to other parts of the country and the world. Here are some ways to get to Calgary:

By Air: Calgary International Airport is the major airport in the city and serves many national and international destinations. Many major airlines operate flights to Calgary, including Air Canada, WestJet, and Delta Airlines. There are also several regional airlines that connect Calgary to smaller cities in Canada.

By Car: Calgary is well connected to other cities in Canada and the United States through an extensive network of highways. The Trans-Canada Highway runs through the city, providing access to eastern and western Canada. The city is also connected to the United States through several border crossings.

By Bus: Greyhound and other bus companies operate regular services to Calgary from other major cities in Canada. There are also several local bus companies that operate services to smaller towns and cities in the region.

By Train: Via Rail operates passenger trains to Calgary from major cities in Canada, including Vancouver, Edmonton, and Toronto. The Rocky Mountaineer also offers scenic train tours through the Canadian Rockies, with stops in Calgary.

By Bike: Calgary is a bike-friendly city, and many people choose to cycle to the city. There are several bike routes that connect Calgary to other cities in the region, including the Trans Canada Trail.

By Foot: If you are an adventurous hiker, you can hike the Great Divide Trail or the Pacific Crest Trail which both end in Calgary.

What is the best time to travel to Calgary

The best time to travel to Calgary depends on your interests and what you want to do. Calgary has distinct seasons, and each offers a unique experience for visitors.

Summer, from June to August, is the peak tourist season in Calgary. The weather is mild and sunny, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 80s Fahrenheit. This is an excellent time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions, such as the Calgary Zoo, the Heritage Park Historical Village, and the Calgary Tower. The city is also home to the famous Calgary Stampede, a ten-day rodeo and festival that takes place in July.

Fall, from September to November, offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. This is a great time to visit the city’s parks and take in the beautiful fall foliage. The city also hosts several cultural events during the fall, such as the Calgary International Film Festival and the Calgary International Flamenco Festival.

Winter, from December to February, is the best time to visit Calgary if you enjoy winter sports. The city has several ski resorts, such as Banff and Lake Louise, which offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Additionally, the city hosts several winter festivals, such as the Calgary Winter Festival and the Chinook Blast, which celebrate the city’s winter culture.

Spring, from March to May, offers milder temperatures and is an excellent time to explore the city’s indoor attractions, such as the Glenbow Museum and the Calgary Science Centre. The city also hosts several festivals and events during the spring, such as the Calgary Comic and Entertainment Expo and the Calgary Underground Film Festival.

In summary, the best time to travel to Calgary depends on your interests and what you want to do. The summer is the peak tourist season and is an excellent time to explore the city’s outdoor attractions, while the winter is the best time to visit if you enjoy winter sports. The fall and spring offer milder temperatures and several festivals and events, making them an excellent time to explore the city’s indoor attractions and cultural offerings.

How to get around Calgary

Calgary, Canada, is a sprawling city with a lot to see and do. If you’re planning a trip to Calgary, it’s important to know how to get around the city. Fortunately, there are many ways to travel around Calgary, including public transportation, taxis, car rentals, and walking.

Public Transportation: Calgary has an efficient public transportation system operated by Calgary Transit. The system includes buses and a light rail transit (LRT) system. The LRT system, called the CTrain, operates two lines: the Red Line and the Blue Line. The Red Line runs from the northwest to the southeast, while the Blue Line runs from the northeast to the southwest. The CTrain is a great way to get around Calgary, as it’s affordable and reliable.

Taxis: Taxis are readily available throughout the city, and they can be flagged down on the street or hired through a ride-hailing app like Uber or Lyft. Taxis in Calgary are metered, so you’ll know exactly how much your ride will cost before you get in. Tipping is customary in Canada, so be sure to leave a little extra for your driver if you receive good service.

Car Rentals: Car rentals are available at Calgary International Airport and throughout the city. Renting a car can be a great way to get around Calgary if you plan on exploring areas outside of the city or if you prefer the freedom of driving yourself. Be sure to familiarize yourself with Canadian traffic laws before hitting the road, as they can be different from those in your home country.

Walking: Calgary is a pedestrian-friendly city with many sidewalks and walking paths. If you’re staying in or near downtown, many of the city’s attractions are within walking distance. Walking is a great way to explore Calgary’s vibrant neighborhoods and take in the local culture.

Biking: Calgary has an extensive network of bike lanes and pathways, making it a great city for cyclists. You can rent a bike from one of the city’s bike-sharing programs, such as Lime or Bird, or bring your own bike with you.

Accommodations in Calgary

Calgary is a bustling city located in the western Canadian province of Alberta. It offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, you’re sure to find something that fits your needs and budget.

Luxury Hotels: If you’re looking for luxury accommodations, Calgary has several world-class hotels that offer exceptional amenities and services. The Fairmont Palliser is an iconic hotel located in downtown Calgary that offers luxurious rooms, a fitness center, and a spa. The hotel is also located close to many of Calgary’s top attractions, including the Calgary Tower and the Glenbow Museum.

Another option is the Hyatt Regency Calgary, which offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. The hotel is located in the heart of downtown Calgary, making it a convenient option for both business and leisure travelers.

Mid-Range Hotels: Calgary also has many mid-range hotels that offer comfortable accommodations and modern amenities. The Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown is a popular option, located in the heart of downtown Calgary. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant.

Another option is the Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel, which is located near many of Calgary’s top attractions, including the Calgary Zoo and the TELUS Convention Centre. The hotel offers modern rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.

Budget-Friendly Accommodations: If you’re traveling on a budget, there are many budget-friendly options in Calgary. The HI Calgary City Centre Hostel is a popular option, offering dormitory-style rooms and private rooms at affordable rates. The hostel also offers a shared kitchen, a common room, and free Wi-Fi.

Another option is the Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Calgary Downtown, which offers comfortable rooms at affordable rates. The hotel is located in the heart of downtown Calgary, making it a convenient option for budget-conscious travelers.