Edmonton travel Guide

Edmonton travel guide

National Airports

Edmonton, Canada is served by the Edmonton International Airport (YEG), which is located approximately 30 kilometers south of downtown Edmonton. It is the primary airport for the city and serves both domestic and international flights.

Trains in Edmonton

Edmonton is served by VIA Rail, which operates passenger trains across Canada. VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” line stops in Edmonton, offering connections to Vancouver, Toronto, and other major Canadian cities. Edmonton’s VIA Rail station is located at 12360 121 Street NW. The station offers parking, wheelchair accessibility, and other amenities. Additionally, there are several other train stations located outside of Edmonton, such as the Jasper Train Station, which offers scenic views of the Canadian Rockies.

Buses in Edmonton

Edmonton is well-served by several bus companies, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel both locally and to nearby cities. The main bus company in Edmonton is the Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), which operates buses throughout the city and surrounding areas. Greyhound is another popular bus company that offers both local and regional services to destinations throughout Canada and the United States. Additionally, several other regional bus companies provide transportation services to and from Edmonton, including Red Arrow, Cold Shot, and Rider Express. These companies offer services to cities such as Calgary, Red Deer, Fort McMurray, and Saskatoon. Buses are an excellent option for those looking for affordable and flexible transportation around Edmonton and the surrounding areas.

How to get to Edmonton

Edmonton, Canada is a major transportation hub and is easily accessible by air, road, and rail.

By Air: Edmonton International Airport is located about 30 kilometers south of downtown Edmonton and serves numerous domestic and international airlines. Many airlines offer direct flights to Edmonton from major Canadian and U.S. cities, as well as from Europe and Asia.

By Road: Edmonton is accessible by road from all directions. The city is located at the intersection of two major highways – the Yellowhead Highway (Highway 16) and the Queen Elizabeth II Highway (Highway 2). Both highways offer easy access to other major Canadian cities.

By Rail: Via Rail Canada offers passenger rail service to Edmonton from Vancouver, Jasper, and Toronto. The train station is located in downtown Edmonton, making it easy to access other parts of the city.

By Bus: Greyhound Canada operates bus services to Edmonton from major Canadian cities, including Calgary, Vancouver, and Winnipeg. Several other bus companies also offer services to Edmonton.

Once you arrive in Edmonton, there are many options for getting around, including public transportation, taxis, ride-sharing services, and rental cars.

What is the best time to travel to Edmonton

The best time to travel to Edmonton depends on personal preferences and what you plan to do. Summer months from June to August are popular for outdoor activities and festivals, while winter months from December to February offer opportunities for winter sports and activities such as skiing and ice skating.

Spring and fall can be less crowded and offer pleasant temperatures for sightseeing, hiking, and other outdoor activities. It’s important to note that Edmonton experiences a subarctic climate, with cold winters and mild summers, so it’s important to pack accordingly for the season.

In terms of festivals and events, some of the most popular include the Edmonton Fringe Festival in August, the Edmonton International Street Performers Festival in July, and the Ice on Whyte Festival in January.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Edmonton depends on your interests and what you want to experience during your trip.

How to get around Edmonton

Edmonton, the capital city of the Canadian province of Alberta, has an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and a light rail transit (LRT) system. Here’s how to get around Edmonton:

Public Transit: Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) is the main public transportation provider in the city. It operates a fleet of buses and LRT trains, serving both downtown and suburban areas. ETS offers various ticket options including single ride fares, day passes, and monthly passes. They also offer a mobile app that provides real-time bus schedules, trip planning, and mobile ticketing.

Taxis: There are several taxi companies in Edmonton that offer reliable service, including Yellow Cab and Co-op Taxi. You can hail a taxi on the street or call for a pick-up. Taxis are readily available throughout the city, including at the airport.

Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are both available in Edmonton, offering a convenient alternative to traditional taxis. You can request a ride through the apps, and payment is handled automatically through your account.

Car Rental: If you prefer to drive yourself, there are several car rental companies in Edmonton, including Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise. You can book a rental car at the airport or at various locations throughout the city.

Biking: Edmonton has an extensive network of bike paths and lanes, making it a great city for cycling. There are several bike rental companies in the city, including River Valley Adventure Co. and Segway of Edmonton.

Walking: Many of Edmonton’s major attractions, such as the Alberta Legislature Building and the Art Gallery of Alberta, are located within walking distance of each other in downtown Edmonton. The city also has an extensive network of pedestrian paths and walkways, making it easy to explore on foot.

Electric Scooters: Lime and Bird are both available in Edmonton, offering electric scooter rentals. You can download the apps to locate and rent the scooters, and payment is handled automatically through your account.

Accommodations in Edmonton

Edmonton, the capital city of Alberta, offers a range of accommodations to suit different needs and budgets. From budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels, visitors can choose from a variety of options.

Downtown Edmonton is the ideal location for visitors to stay as it provides easy access to the city’s attractions. There are several hotels located in the downtown area, including the JW Marriott Edmonton ICE District, the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald, and the Delta Hotels by Marriott Edmonton Centre Suites.

For those who prefer budget-friendly options, there are several hostels in the city, including HI Edmonton Hostel and the Yellowhead Inn. These hostels offer comfortable accommodations at an affordable price.

If visitors are looking for a more unique experience, there are several bed and breakfast options in Edmonton. These accommodations offer a more personalized experience with home-cooked meals and a cozy atmosphere. Some of the popular bed and breakfast options in Edmonton include The Grand Manor Bed and Breakfast and the Villa Maria Country Inn.

There are also several vacation rental options available for visitors in Edmonton. Vacation rentals are an excellent option for those who want more space and privacy. Some popular vacation rental websites include Airbnb and VRBO.

Additionally, there are several extended-stay options in Edmonton for those who are looking for accommodations for a longer period. These options include furnished apartments, corporate housing, and extended-stay hotels.