Canada, a vast country renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes and vibrant urban culture, offers an ideal blend of city exploration and wilderness adventure. This 7-day itinerary is specifically designed for international travelers—whether from the Americas or other regions—seeking a balanced experience of Canada’s west coast charm and the majestic Rocky Mountains. Focused on Vancouver, Banff National Park, and Calgary, the plan prioritizes practicality, with clear transportation routes, accommodation recommendations, and insider tips to ensure a smooth and memorable journey.
Itinerary Overview
Destinations: Vancouver (3 days) → Banff National Park (3 days) → Calgary (1 day)Best for: First-time visitors to Canada, nature enthusiasts, and travelers who enjoy combining city sightseeing with outdoor activitiesRecommended Seasons: Summer (June–September) for hiking, lake activities, and mild weather; Winter (December–March) for skiing, snowboarding, and winter wonderland sceneryTotal Budget: CAD 2,500–3,500 per person (including flights, accommodation, transportation, meals, and attractions)
Day 1: Arrival in Vancouver – Embracing Coastal Charm
Transportation from Airport to City Center
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is consistently ranked among the world’s top airports for its efficiency and amenities. Upon arrival, the most convenient way to reach downtown Vancouver is via the Canada Line—a rapid transit system that connects the airport to the city center. Trains run every 7–15 minutes, operate from 5:00 AM to 12:30 AM, and take approximately 25 minutes to reach Waterfront Station (downtown). A one-way fare costs CAD 10.25, and tickets can be purchased at vending machines in the airport terminal using cash or credit cards. Alternatively, taxis or rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) are available outside the arrivals hall, with fares ranging from CAD 35–50 to downtown, depending on traffic.
Accommodation: Downtown Vancouver
Staying in downtown Vancouver puts you within walking distance of major attractions, restaurants, and public transit. Recommended options include:
- Hyatt Regency Vancouver: Located at 655 Burrard Street, this 4-star hotel offers spacious rooms with city or mountain views, an indoor pool, and easy access to the Canada Line. Rates start at CAD 200–300 per night.
- Fairmont Waterfront: A luxury choice at 900 Canada Place, steps from Stanley Park and the waterfront. Rooms feature elegant decor, and the hotel includes a spa and fine dining restaurant. Rates start at CAD 350–450 per night for premium rooms.
- Budget Alternative: The Listel Hotel Vancouver (1300 Robson Street) offers cozy rooms in a central location, with rates starting at CAD 150–200 per night.
Afternoon & Evening Exploration
After checking into your hotel and freshening up, start your Vancouver adventure with two iconic attractions:
1. Stanley Park
A 405-hectare urban park, Stanley Park is one of Vancouver’s most beloved landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The best way to explore the park is by renting a bicycle from one of the many rental shops near the park entrance (e.g., Spokes Bicycle Rentals, CAD 35–50 for a half-day). Cycle along the Seawall, a 22-kilometer paved path that circles the park, offering stunning views of English Bay, the Lions Gate Bridge, and the North Shore Mountains. Along the way, stop at the Totem Poles—a collection of 9 First Nations totem poles carved from cedar, each telling a unique cultural story. For a more relaxed experience, take a horse-drawn carriage tour (CAD 60–80 per hour) or stroll through the park’s lush forests and gardens.
2. Canada Place
From Stanley Park, walk or cycle 15 minutes east to Canada Place, a distinctive waterfront building with a sail-like roof. Here, you can:
- Watch cruise ships dock at the terminal (a popular spot for people-watching).
- Take a ride on FlyOver Canada, a 4D flight simulation ride that offers a bird’s-eye view of Canada’s most stunning landscapes—from the Rocky Mountains to Niagara Falls. Tickets cost CAD 39 for adults and CAD 29 for children (book online in advance to avoid long lines).
- Relax on the outdoor plaza and enjoy views of the Burrard Inlet and North Shore.
Dining Recommendations
For dinner, head to Granville Island Public Market—a vibrant food market located a 10-minute ferry ride from downtown (ferry tickets cost CAD 5.75 one-way). The market features over 50 vendors selling fresh seafood, local produce, baked goods, and international cuisine. Try:
- A bowl of West Coast Seafood Chowder (CAD 10–15) from The Chowder Company, made with fresh salmon, clams, and potatoes.
- A British Columbia Salmon Burger (CAD 12–15) from Salmon n’ Bannock Bistro, served with sweet potato fries.
- For dessert, indulge in a Nanaimo Bar (CAD 4–6)—a classic Canadian treat made with a chocolate-coconut base, vanilla custard, and chocolate topping—from Lee’s Donuts.
Day 2: Vancouver City Highlights – Culture, Nature, and History
Transportation: The Compass Card
To navigate Vancouver efficiently, purchase a Compass Card—a reloadable transit card that works on buses, SkyTrain, SeaBus, and ferries. You can buy a card at SkyTrain stations, London Drugs stores, or online for CAD 6 (plus fare). A daily pass costs CAD 11.75, which allows unlimited travel on all transit services within the city.
Morning: Granville Island & Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
1. Granville Island (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
Start your day with a return trip to Granville Island (if you didn’t explore it fully the previous evening). Beyond the public market, the island is home to:
- Art Galleries & Studios: Browse works by local artists at the Granville Island Gallery or watch glassblowers create unique pieces at the Hot Glass Studio.
- Public Art: Look for colorful murals and sculptures throughout the island, including the iconic “Granville Island” sign.
- Shops: Pick up souvenirs like Canadian maple syrup, First Nations jewelry, or locally made crafts at boutiques like The Maple Leaf Store.
2. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park (11:30 AM – 2:00 PM)
Take bus #236 from Granville Island to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park (approximately 30 minutes, CAD 3.25 one-way with a Compass Card). This popular attraction is centered around a 140-meter-long suspension bridge that hangs 70 meters above the Capilano River.
Key Activities:
- Walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge—feel the gentle sway as you take in views of the river and old-growth forest below.
- Explore the Treetops Adventure—a series of seven suspension bridges connected to tree platforms, offering a unique perspective of the forest canopy.
- Visit the First Nations Cultural Center—learn about the history and traditions of the Squamish Nation through interactive exhibits, storytelling, and traditional dance performances (held on weekends).
Ticket Information: Adult tickets cost CAD 69, and children (6–16) cost CAD 34.50. Book online in advance to save 10% and skip ticket lines.
Lunch: Capilano River Regional Park
After exploring the suspension bridge park, walk 10 minutes to Capilano River Regional Park—a peaceful spot with picnic tables along the river. Pack a lunch from Granville Island (e.g., a sandwich, fruit, and a drink) or grab a quick bite at the park’s café (try the turkey avocado sandwich, CAD 12).
Afternoon: Gastown & English Bay
1. Gastown (2:30 PM – 4:30 PM)
Take bus #240 from Capilano River Park to Gastown (approximately 25 minutes). Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood, Gastown is known for its cobblestone streets, Victorian-style buildings, and lively atmosphere.
Must-See Attractions:
- The Steam Clock—a famous landmark located at the corner of Cambie and Water Streets. Built in 1977, the clock runs on steam and blows a whistle every 15 minutes (don’t miss the 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM whistle for a full performance).
- Gastown Steam Clock Museum: Step inside the small museum next to the clock to learn about its history and how it works (admission is free).
- Vintage Shops & Galleries: Browse unique boutiques like Kit & Ace (known for sustainable clothing) or the Gastown Gallery (featuring Canadian art).
- Public Art: Look for the “Gastown” sign and colorful murals that line the streets.
2. English Bay (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Take bus #5 from Gastown to English Bay (approximately 15 minutes). This popular beach area is the perfect place to relax and watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Activities:
- Walk along the beach—feel the sand between your toes and listen to the waves crash against the shore.
- Rent a paddleboard or kayak (CAD 40–60 per hour) from English Bay Kayak to explore the bay.
- Join a yoga class on the beach (offered by local studios like YYoga, CAD 20 per class) for a peaceful end to the afternoon.
Dinner: Robson Street
Head to Robson Street—Vancouver’s premier shopping and dining district—for dinner. The street is lined with restaurants offering cuisine from around the world, with a focus on Asian flavors (a reflection of Vancouver’s diverse population).
Recommended Restaurants:
- Ramen Danbo: A popular spot for Japanese ramen. Try the Tonkotsu Ramen (CAD 16), made with a rich pork broth, tender noodles, and chashu pork.
- Shanghai River: For authentic Chinese cuisine, order the Xiao Long Bao (steamed pork dumplings, CAD 12 for 8) and the Sweet and Sour Pork (CAD 18).
- Medina Café: If you’re in the mood for brunch-style food (served until 10:00 PM), try the Moroccan Spiced Chicken Hash (CAD 17) and a cup of their famous lavender latte (CAD 6).
Day 3: Vancouver to Banff – Entering the Rocky Mountains
Morning: Flight to Calgary
To reach Banff National Park, you’ll first fly from Vancouver to Calgary—Alberta’s largest city and the gateway to the Rockies.
Flight Information:
- Airlines: Air Canada, WestJet, and Flair Airlines offer daily flights between Vancouver (YVR) and Calgary (YYC).
- Duration: 1.5 hours (non-stop).
- Fares: Prices start at CAD 150 per person (book 2–3 months in advance for the best deals).
- Check-In: Arrive at YVR 2 hours before your flight to allow time for security and baggage check.
Afternoon: Rent a Car & Drive to Banff
Upon arriving at Calgary International Airport (YYC), pick up a rental car—this is the most convenient way to explore Banff National Park, as public transit within the park is limited.
Rental Car Tips:
- Companies: Enterprise, Avis, Budget, and Hertz have offices at YYC. Book online in advance to secure a vehicle (especially during peak season).
- Vehicle Type: For summer travel, a standard car is sufficient. For winter, a 4WD vehicle with snow tires is recommended (ask the rental company about adding snow tires for CAD 15–20 per day).
- Documents: Bring your valid driver’s license (from your home country) and an International Driving Permit (IDP)—required if your license is not in English. You can obtain an IDP from your local automobile association before traveling.
- Insurance: Purchase collision damage waiver (CDW) and liability insurance (usually included in the rental price, but confirm with the company).
Drive to Banff:From YYC, take Highway 1 West (Trans-Canada Highway) to Banff. The drive is 128 kilometers (80 miles) and takes approximately 1.5 hours. Along the way, you’ll pass through rolling prairies and start to see the Rocky Mountains in the distance—keep an eye out for wildlife like deer and elk (especially in the early morning or late afternoon).
Accommodation: Banff Townsite
Banff Townsite is a charming mountain town located within Banff National Park, surrounded by peaks and forests. Recommended hotels include:
- Banff Aspen Lodge: A cozy 3-star hotel at 409 Banff Avenue, steps from shops and restaurants. Rooms feature fireplaces and mountain views, and rates start at CAD 250–400 per night.
- Fairmont Banff Springs: A luxury “castle” hotel at 405 Spray Avenue, built in 1888. The hotel offers a spa, golf course, and multiple restaurants. Rates start at CAD 500–800 per night for standard rooms.
- Budget Alternative: HI Banff Alpine Centre (224 Banff Avenue) is a hostel with dormitory and private rooms, starting at CAD 80–120 per night.
Evening Exploration: Banff Avenue & Sulphur Mountain Gondola
1. Banff Avenue (4:30 PM – 6:00 PM)
Banff Avenue is the main street of Banff Townsite, lined with boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops. Take a stroll to:
- Browse for souvenirs like Rocky Mountain-themed clothing, Canadian maple syrup, or First Nations crafts.
- Visit the Banff Park Museum (93 Banff Avenue)—a historic museum housed in a log cabin, featuring exhibits on the park’s wildlife, geology, and history (admission is free).
- Stop for a coffee at Wild Flour Bakery—try their famous cinnamon bun (CAD 5) and a latte (CAD 5).
2. Sulphur Mountain Gondola (6:30 PM – 8:30 PM)
Take a 10-minute drive (or a 20-minute walk) from Banff Avenue to the Sulphur Mountain Gondola—a cable car that takes you to the top of Sulphur Mountain (2,450 meters above sea level).
Key Details:
- Hours: In summer, the gondola operates from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM (last ride up at 8:00 PM). In winter, hours are 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
- Tickets: Adult tickets cost CAD 69, and children (6–15) cost CAD 34.50. Book online in advance to save time.
- At the Top: Once you reach the summit, walk along the Sanson’s Peak Boardwalk—a 1-kilometer trail that offers panoramic views of Banff National Park, including the Bow Valley, Banff Townsite, and surrounding mountains. Don’t miss the Cosmic Ray Station—a historic building that was once used for scientific research (now a interpretive center).
Dinner: Banff Townsite
After returning from Sulphur Mountain, enjoy dinner at one of Banff’s top restaurants:
- The Bison: A popular spot for Canadian cuisine. Try the Bison Burger (CAD 22), made with locally sourced bison meat, served with fries and a side salad.
- Eddie Burger + Bar: For a casual meal, order the Western Burger (CAD 18) with bacon, cheese, and onion rings.
- The Rimrock Resort Hotel Dining Room: For a fine dining experience, try the Alberta Beef Tenderloin (CAD 55) and a glass of Canadian wine (e.g., a Cabernet Sauvignon from British Columbia, CAD 12 per glass).
Day 4: Banff National Park Classics – Lakes, Waterfalls, and Mountain Views
Transportation: Park Shuttles & Driving
While you’ll use your rental car to get around, some popular attractions (like Lake Louise) have limited parking—especially during peak season. To avoid the hassle, take advantage of the Banff National Park Shuttle Service:
- Lake Louise Shuttle: Runs from Banff Townsite to Lake Louise (45 minutes) and Moraine Lake (15 minutes from Lake Louise). Buses depart every 30 minutes from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM in summer. A one-way fare costs CAD 10 per person.
- Booking: Reserve your shuttle seat online 1–2 months in advance (required during peak season).
Morning: Lake Louise & Moraine Lake
1. Lake Louise (7:30 AM – 11:00 AM)
Start your day early to avoid crowds at Lake Louise—one of the most famous lakes in Canada, known for its turquoise waters and surrounding snow-capped mountains.
Activities:
- Walk the Lake Louise Shoreline Trail: A 2.4-kilometer loop around the lake, offering stunning views of the lake and the Victoria Glacier. The trail is easy and takes approximately 1 hour to complete.
- Canoeing: Rent a canoe from the Lake Louise Boathouse (CAD 120 per hour for a 2-person canoe) and paddle on the lake—this is a once-in-a
- Canoeing: Rent a canoe from the Lake Louise Boathouse (CAD 120 per hour for a 2-person canoe) and paddle on the lake—this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as the turquoise water reflects the surrounding peaks like a mirror. Note that canoe rentals operate from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM in summer and require a 30-minute advance reservation (book online via the Banff Lake Louise Tourism website).
- Visit the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise: Step inside this iconic luxury hotel, located on the shores of the lake. Even if you’re not staying here, the lobby’s grand architecture and mountain views are worth a visit. Grab a coffee at the Lakeview Lounge (CAD 6–8) and sit by the window to enjoy the scenery.
2. Moraine Lake (11:30 AM – 1:30 PM)
Take the shuttle from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake—a smaller but equally stunning lake nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Often referred to as the “Jewel of the Rockies,” Moraine Lake is famous for its vivid blue-green water, which gets its color from glacial silt (called “rock flour”).
Key Activities:
- Rock Pile Trail: Hike the short but steep Rock Pile Trail (0.8 kilometers round-trip, 30 minutes) to reach a viewing platform at the top of a pile of boulders. From here, you’ll get the classic postcard view of Moraine Lake with the Ten Peaks in the background—this is one of the most photographed spots in Canada.
- Lakeside Picnic: Spread out a blanket on the shore and enjoy a picnic lunch. If you didn’t pack food, the Moraine Lake Lodge Café offers light meals like sandwiches (CAD 12–15) and salads (CAD 10–12).
Important Note: Moraine Lake is only accessible by shuttle during peak season (June–September) due to limited parking. The lake is also prone to closure in early summer if snowmelt causes high water levels—check the Banff National Park website for updates before your visit.
Afternoon: Bow Falls & Surprise Corner
Take the shuttle back to Lake Louise, then drive 10 minutes to Bow Falls (a 30-meter-wide waterfall on the Bow River) and Surprise Corner (a scenic viewpoint).
1. Bow Falls (2:00 PM – 2:30 PM)
Walk the short trail from the parking lot to Bow Falls—watch as the Bow River rushes over rocks, creating a powerful cascade. In summer, the falls are fed by glacial meltwater, making them particularly impressive. There are several viewing platforms along the trail, so take your time to snap photos.
2. Surprise Corner (2:45 PM – 3:15 PM)
Drive 5 minutes from Bow Falls to Surprise Corner—a viewpoint named for the “surprise” of seeing the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel framed by the mountains. From here, you’ll also get a panoramic view of the Bow Valley and Banff Townsite. It’s a popular spot for sunset photos, but even in the afternoon, the scenery is breathtaking.
Dinner: Banff Townsite
Return to Banff Townsite and enjoy a casual dinner at one of these local favorites:
- The Bear Street Tavern: A cozy pub serving wood-fired pizza (try the “Banff Special” with pepperoni, mushrooms, and olives, CAD 18) and craft beer (sample the Banff Ave. Brewing Co. Pale Ale, CAD 7 per pint).
- Elk + Avenue Brewing Co.: A brewery and restaurant offering hearty dishes like bison meatloaf (CAD 24) and fish and chips (CAD 22), plus their own award-winning beer.
- Sushi-Ya: For a change of pace, try this small sushi restaurant—order the “Rocky Mountain Roll” (CAD 16) with salmon, avocado, and tempura crunch.
Day 5: Icefields Parkway & Columbia Icefield – A Glacial Adventure
Morning: Drive the Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 North) is often called the “Most Beautiful Drive in the World”—a 232-kilometer stretch of road that connects Banff and Jasper National Parks, passing by glaciers, lakes, and mountains. Start your day early (8:00 AM) to avoid traffic and make the most of the scenery.
Key Stops Along the Way:
- Herbert Lake: A small lake 24 kilometers north of Banff Townsite. Pull over at the parking lot and walk 5 minutes to the shore—Herbert Lake is known for its calm waters, which perfectly reflect the surrounding peaks (it’s a popular spot for sunrise photos).
- Bow Lake: 45 kilometers from Banff, Bow Lake is the largest lake on the Icefields Parkway. Stop at the Num-Ti-Jah Lodge (a historic log cabin) for a coffee (CAD 6) and enjoy views of the lake and the Crowfoot Glacier in the distance.
Mid-Morning: Peyto Lake
Drive 60 kilometers from Banff to Peyto Lake—one of the most stunning lakes in the Rockies, famous for its bright turquoise color (caused by glacial rock flour).
How to Visit:
- Park at the Peyto Lake viewpoint parking lot, then hike the 1.4-kilometer round-trip trail to the main viewpoint (45 minutes). The trail is moderately steep but well-paved, with benches along the way to rest.
- From the viewpoint, you’ll see the lake’s distinctive “wolf’s head” shape and the Peyto Glacier at the far end. Bring a camera—this is a spot you’ll want to remember.
Afternoon: Columbia Icefield & Skywalk
Continue driving north for 30 minutes to the Columbia Icefield—the largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies, covering 325 square kilometers and feeding 8 major glaciers.
1. Columbia Icefield Adventure
The highlight of the icefield is the Athabasca Glacier—a 6-kilometer-long glacier that extends down from the icefield. To step onto the glacier, book the Ice Explorer Tour (operated by Brewster Travel Canada):
- What to Expect: Board a massive 6×6 Ice Explorer vehicle (designed to drive on ice) and take a 20-minute ride up the glacier to a designated viewing area. Once there, you’ll have 30 minutes to walk on the ice, touch the glacial ice (it’s over 1,000 years old!), and take photos.
- Tickets: Adult tickets cost CAD 99, and children (3–15) cost CAD 49.50. Book online 1–2 months in advance—tours sell out quickly during peak season.
- What to Wear: Even in summer, the glacier is cold (temperatures can be 10–15°C cooler than in Banff Townsite). Wear a warm jacket, waterproof pants, and closed-toe shoes with good traction (sneakers are okay, but hiking boots are better).
2. Glacier Skywalk
After the Ice Explorer Tour, visit the Glacier Skywalk—a glass-floored observation deck that juts 35 meters out from the side of a cliff, 280 meters above the Sunwapta Valley.
- Experience: Walk on the glass floor and look down at the valley below—it’s a thrilling way to see the landscape. There are also outdoor viewing platforms and interpretive signs that explain the icefield’s geology and ecology.
- Tickets: Included with the Ice Explorer Tour (no extra cost). If you’re not taking the tour, skywalk-only tickets cost CAD 35 for adults and CAD 17.50 for children.
Evening: Return to Banff
Drive back to Banff Townsite (2 hours) along the Icefields Parkway—take your time and stop at additional viewpoints like Crowfoot Glacier (a triple-peaked glacier) and Sunwapta Falls (a 18-meter-high waterfall on the Sunwapta River).
Dinner: Banff Townsite
For a special dinner, try Grizzly House—a famous fondue restaurant in Banff:
- Choose from cheese fondue (CAD 32 for two people, served with bread, vegetables, and fruit) or meat fondue (CAD 45 per person, with options like beef, chicken, and wild boar).
- Pair your fondue with a bottle of Canadian wine (e.g., a Pinot Noir from Ontario, CAD 40–60 per bottle).
Day 6: Yoho National Park & Drive to Calgary – Lakes and Urban Views
Morning: Yoho National Park
Yoho National Park is a small but spectacular park located just west of Banff National Park, known for its waterfalls, lakes, and unique rock formations. Drive 1 hour from Banff Townsite to Yoho (take Highway 1 West, then Highway 1A into the park).
1. Emerald Lake
Start with Emerald Lake—Yoho’s most famous lake, named for its emerald-green water (caused by glacial rock flour).
- Activities: Rent a canoe from the Emerald Lake Lodge Boathouse (CAD 100 per hour for a 2-person canoe) and paddle on the lake, or hike the 5-kilometer Emerald Lake Loop Trail (2 hours) around the shore. The trail is flat and easy, with views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Emerald Lake Lodge: Stop at the lodge’s café for breakfast (try the eggs Benedict, CAD 16) or a mid-morning snack (like a scone with clotted cream, CAD 8).
2. Natural Bridge
Drive 10 minutes from Emerald Lake to Natural Bridge—a unique natural formation where the Kicking Horse River has eroded a limestone cliff, creating a “bridge” of rock.
- Visit: Walk the short trail from the parking lot to the bridge (5 minutes). Stand on the viewing platform and watch as the river rushes through the narrow gap below. In summer, the water is a bright turquoise, making for great photos.
Afternoon: Drive to Calgary
Leave Yoho National Park and drive 2 hours to Calgary (take Highway 1 East). Along the way, you’ll pass from the Rocky Mountains into the Canadian Prairies—watch as the landscape changes from forests and peaks to open fields and farmland.
Accommodation: Downtown Calgary
Calgary is a modern city known for its Western heritage (it’s home to the famous Calgary Stampede rodeo). Stay in downtown Calgary for easy access to restaurants and attractions:
- Marriott Calgary Downtown: A 4-star hotel at 110 9th Avenue SW, featuring spacious rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. Rates start at CAD 180–250 per night.
- The Westin Calgary: Located at 320 4th Avenue SW, steps from the Calgary Tower. Rooms offer city views, and the hotel has a spa and multiple dining options. Rates start at CAD 200–270 per night.
- Budget Alternative: HI Calgary City Hostel (535 8th Avenue SW) offers dormitory and private rooms, starting at CAD 70–100 per night.
Evening: Calgary Tower & Dinner
1. Calgary Tower
Check into your hotel, then walk 10–15 minutes to the Calgary Tower—a 191-meter-tall observation tower that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Prairies.
- Observation Deck: Take the elevator to the observation deck (CAD 19 for adults, CAD 9 for children). Walk around the deck and use the interactive telescopes to spot landmarks like the Rocky Mountains (on a clear day) and the Stampede Park.
- Sky 360 Restaurant: For a unique dining experience, book a table at Sky 360—a revolving restaurant on the tower’s 36th floor. The menu features Canadian cuisine like Alberta beef and Prairies chicken, and the restaurant rotates 360 degrees every 45 minutes, giving you changing views throughout your meal.
2. Dinner: Calgary Steakhouse
If you don’t dine at Sky 360, head to one of Calgary’s famous steakhouses to try Alberta beef—known for its tenderness and flavor (thanks to the province’s grass-fed cattle).
Recommended Restaurants:
- Caesars Steak House: A historic steakhouse founded in 1970, located at 119 8th Avenue SW. Try the 8-ounce Filet Mignon (CAD 52) or the 12-ounce Ribeye (CAD 58), served with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
- Hy’s Steakhouse: A upscale spot at 739 8th Avenue SW. Order the Alberta Prime Rib (CAD 65) and a glass of red wine (e.g., a Cabernet Sauvignon from British Columbia, CAD 14 per glass).
- The Keg Steakhouse + Bar: A casual chain with locations throughout Calgary. Try the Keg Classic Burger (CAD 18) with cheddar cheese and bacon, or the New York Strip Steak (CAD 42).
Day 7: Calgary Highlights & Departure – History or Shopping
Morning: Heritage Park Historical Village or CrossIron Mills Outlet
Choose one of two activities based on your interests:
Option 1: Heritage Park Historical Village
If you’re interested in Canadian history, visit Heritage Park Historical Village—Canada’s largest living history museum, located 20 minutes southwest of downtown Calgary (take bus #501 from downtown, CAD 3.25 one-way).
- What to See: The park features over 180 historic buildings, including a 1910s main street, a pioneer farm, and a steam train. Costumed interpreters demonstrate daily life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries—you can try blacksmithing, ride a horse-drawn carriage (CAD 10), or take a ride on the steam train (CAD 8).
- Hours: Open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM in summer.
- Tickets: Adult tickets cost CAD 36, and children (3–17) cost CAD 24.
Option 2: CrossIron Mills Outlet
If you want to do some shopping, head to CrossIron Mills—a large outlet mall located 30 minutes north of downtown Calgary (take the CTrain to the Somerset-Bridlewood Station, then transfer to bus #300, CAD 3.25 one-way).
- Stores: The mall features over 200 stores, including designer brands like Coach, Michael Kors, and Nike, as well as Canadian brands like Roots and Lululemon. Prices are typically 30–50% off retail, and Alberta has no provincial sales tax (only 5% GST), making it a great place to shop.
- Tips: Wear comfortable shoes—this mall is large! Bring a reusable bag to carry your purchases, and check the mall’s website for coupon codes before you go.
Afternoon: Return Rental Car & Departure
- Return the Car: If you rented a car in Calgary, return it to the rental company’s office at Calgary International Airport (YYC) at least 1 hour before your flight. Make sure to fill up the gas tank before returning (gas stations are located near the airport), and check the car for any damage with a rental agent.
- Airport Check-In: Arrive at YYC 2 hours before your international flight (1.5 hours for domestic flights) to allow time for security and baggage check. The airport has multiple restaurants and shops, so you can grab a snack (try a BeaverTail pastry— a Canadian treat made with fried dough and toppings like cinnamon and sugar, CAD 8) before your flight.
Final Practical Tips for International Travelers
Visa & Documentation
- eTA or Visitor Visa: If you’re from the United States, you don’t need a visa to enter Canada—you just need a valid U.S. passport. If you’re from another country (e.g., the United Kingdom, Australia, or most European countries), you’ll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)—a digital document that can be applied for online (CAD 7) and is valid for 5 years. If you’re from a country that doesn’t qualify for an eTA (e.g., China, India), you’ll need to apply for a Visitor Visa (CAD 100) at a Canadian embassy or consulate.
- Travel Documents: Bring a printed copy of your flight itinerary, hotel reservations, and rental car confirmation. It’s also a good idea to carry a copy of your passport in a separate bag from your original passport (in case of loss or theft).
National Park Passes
- Discovery Pass: To enter Banff, Yoho, and Jasper National Parks, you’ll need a Discovery Pass. The pass costs CAD 10 per vehicle per day, or CAD 140 for an annual pass (valid for all Canadian national parks). You can buy the pass at park entrance gates, visitor centers, or online via the Parks Canada website.
- Keep the Pass Visible: Display the pass on your car’s dashboard so park rangers can see it when you enter the park.
