Everyone knows that taking a trip to Banff is a vacation of a lifetime. You’re in for incredible outdoor adventures and breathtaking views. Although there are endless opportunities in nature, it’s a bit more difficult to decide where to stay in Banff. No need to worry! To make it easier, this list has 15 of the best accommodations in Banff.
Calgary is my hometown, and during my various getaways to Banff over the years, I’ve enjoyed staying in campgrounds, hostels, and fabulous lodges. On this list, you’ll find luxury resorts, boutique inns, hostels, and even the best option for camping. So regardless of what you’re looking for, chances are you’ll find it here, including several pet-friendly options.
Staying in the town of Banff gives you the convenience of shops, museums, restaurants, and pubs, along with soothing hot springs, spectacular views, and great hiking trails nearby. For families, this is often the best option simply because of the convenience factor.
The other option is to stay near Banff but not actually in the townsite. This provides a quieter and more relaxed vibe than the busy tourist town of Banff. One thing is certain: it’s expensive to stay in a hotel in Banff because of location, location, location!
But you can also look at places to stay in Canmore (only 20 minutes away) where hotel rates are a little easier on the wallet. There’s even a bus between Banff and Canmore.
Best Hotels, Lodges, Bungalows in Banff
1. Rimrock Resort Hotel
The list of accommodations in Banff starts with the place that seems to have it all: the Rimrock Resort Hotel. From location to amenities, Rimrock checks all the boxes.
The hotel is surrounded by the natural beauty of the park. Specifically, it’s within steps of the Banff Upper Hot Springs, Sulphur Mountain Trailhead, and the Banff Gondola.
Rimrock also has various room options, an in-house spa, and multiple dining options, including fine dining, a café, and a cocktail lounge. Check availability at Rimrock Resort Hotel now
2. Banff Boutique Inn
The Banff Boutique Inn prides itself on being your home away from home. And its cozy atmosphere really makes it feel like that.
This is where I stayed when I wanted someplace quiet but walkable to the best restaurants in downtown Banff.
Spacious rooms with ensuite bathrooms are ideal. But access to the communal kitchen and warming up by the fireplace make the Banff Boutique stand out.
Another major plus for the Banff Boutique Inn is that it’s super close to downtown Banff. Within a 5-minute walk, you’ll be in the heart of the town. Book a reservation at Banff Boutique Inn now
3. Peaks Hotel & Suites
Peaks Hotel & Suites is one of the best hotels in Banff if you’re looking to explore nature and live it up in the evening.
Located in the heart of the town of Banff, it’s steps from restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Room options range from standard to ultimate suites, so you’re sure to find one that’s right for you.
You’ll have access to hotel dining and wellness options at its sister Banff Park Lodge Hotel across the street, which is a total plus! Make your reservation at Peaks Hotel & Suites
4. Moraine Lake Lodge
Moraine Lake Lodge is ideal for anyone looking to get away from it all when it comes to gorgeous places to stay in Banff.
If the beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains isn’t quite enough, Lake Moraine Lodge has removed distractions from things like TV and phones from their rooms and cabins.
Located on the banks of the beautiful Moraine Lake, guests enjoy complimentary canoeing, guided hikes, and naturalist talks.
5. Basecamp Suites Banff
If you’re looking for apartment-style lodgings in Banff that let you do you, then definitely check out Basecamp Suites Banff. These stellar apartments are the setup that lets you be in the center of it all, with everything you need to be independent.
Full kitchen? Check.
Private bathroom? Yup.
Separate bedroom from the living area? Got it.
Various room options let you choose from 1, 2, or 3-bedroom setups. And to top it off, it’s in the center of town. Check availability at Basecamp Suites Banff now
6. High Country Inn
The High Country Inn has a number of reasons why it’s a top pick in Banff.
Located in the heart of the town of Banff, it’s close to just about everything. The pool, hot tubs, and sauna are the perfect way to wind down after a day of outdoor adventure.
Multiple room options are key. There’s even a family suite that has a kitchenette. High Country Inn is also pet friendly, a total plus! See photos and reviews for High Country Inn now
7. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
The iconic Fairmont Chateau is picture-perfect on the shore of Lake Louise. This 5-star resort has been a pillar of excellence since 1911, and it continues to be one of the best luxury hotels in Banff. Its sleek and modern rooms are the epitome of elegance.
The Fairmont Chateau has a number of bars and restaurants on-site; you’ll never be at a loss for where to eat next. You’ll also find activities organized by the hotel, like guided hikes and Kids Adventure Camp. Check room availability at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise now
8. Paradise Lodge and Bungalows
This is where I stayed for a girlfriend getaway to Lake Louise, and it was perfect because we had a suite with a separate bedroom.
Paradise Lodge and Bungalows is positioned perfectly if you’re looking to be closer to Lake Louise. You’ll be in the heart of Mother Nature, and your accommodations will have that same cozy, rustic feel.
Although this special place dates back to the 1930s, it’s been updated with modern conveniences.
Open mid-May through mid-October, Paradise Lodge offers a choice of cabins and suites. Check availability at Paradise Lodge and Bungalows now
If you’re traveling with kids, they will love the playground at Paradise Lodge too.
9. Post Hotel & Spa
You can’t get a better location than being right next to the Lake Louise Visitor Center. That’s where you’ll be when you stay at the Post Hotel.
Room choice is key at the Post Hotel. With everything from standard rooms to 8-room homes, no wonder it’s one of the best choices for lodgings in Banff. Onsite dining options include formal dining, fondue, an English pub, and even a cocktail lounge. Looking to fully relax? The hotel’s spa is ready to help. See photos and read reviews for Post Hotel now
10. Fairmont Banff Springs
Another stellar Fairmont establishment makes this list of places to stay in Banff. Fairmont Banff Springs, the castle in the mountains, is just a stone’s throw from Bow Falls and offers exceptional accommodations in Banff.
Perfect for a romantic getaway, you’ll find a number of packages that combine a stay with activities like skiing, golfing, and spa treatments. Excitingly, Fairmont Banff Springs is dog-friendly, so you can bring your BFF (best four-legged friend) too! Check rates at Fairmont Banff Springs now
11. The Dorothy Motel
Located just off Banff Avenue, The Dorothy Motel is just a hop, skip, and jump from everything in downtown Banff.
A seriously solid choice when figuring out where to stay in Banff, The Dorothy Motel does not disappoint. Modernized with bright decor and things like free Wi-Fi, you’ll be set with a mini fridge, microwave, and coffee maker.
Choose a room with two queens or a king. Some rooms are also pet-friendly, which is a total plus! See photos and prices for The Dorothy Motel now
Cheapest Places to Stay in Banff
Hostels are an excellent choice for budget travelers and when you’re traveling alone. Hostels often have a communal kitchen so you can prepare your own meals and common areas where you can meet other travelers. I do love luxury accommodations, but I also stay at hostels when I know I’m going to be spending all my time outdoors and just need a place to sleep.
Another perfect option for cheap accommodations in Banff is camping. You’ll get closer to nature and enjoy sitting by the campfire, roasting s’mores, and gawking at the night skies, all for just a few bucks.
12. Banff International Hostel
If you’re traveling solo or looking for a friendly, communal type of stay, the Banff International Hostel is a great option for a budget-friendly stay in Banff.
Banff International has what you’re looking for in a quality hostel. Choose from either gender-specific or co-ed dorms.
If you’re traveling as a group or family, you can rent the entire room. They all have an ensuite bathroom, lockers, and minifridges. The communal guest kitchen and free linens are definitely a hostel plus. Check availability at Banff International Hostel now
13. HI Banff Alpine Centre
HI is known worldwide as a great place to bunk up when traveling. So, it’s no surprise that the HI Banff Alpine Centre is one of the best hostels in Banff.
The variety of room setups is a huge plus. Choose from gender specific or mixed dorms. Private room options can sleep up to four with private bathrooms or communal bathrooms.
The restaurant and bar on-site are super convenient and a great way to meet fellow travelers. Check out the view and more at HI Banff Alpine Centre now
14. HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre
How cool is it that there’s another HI in Banff National Park? The HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre is an excellent choice for staying in Banff, especially if you’re looking to spend more time on the shores and hiking trails of beautiful Lake Louise.
Just like its sister HI in Banff, this one has a variety of room options, a communal kitchen, and a restaurant on-site.
Friendly vibes for travelers looking to mingle with others. Family-friendly, complete with a kids’ play area.
I stayed here for a budget weekend getaway to Lake Louise, and it was perfect! I was out hiking all day, so I only wanted someplace to sleep. But the big plus for me, being a solo traveler, was the on-site restaurant and communal kitchen. I got to meet other travelers and enjoy a refreshing post-hike beer and great food. See pics and rates for HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre now
15. Two Jack Lakeside Campground
If you’re thinking camping might be the way you want to experience the beauty of Banff, then definitely check out Two Jack Lakeside Campground.
In my younger days, this is where I would spend every long weekend from May to September, tent camping by Two Jack Lake.
It’s perfect for tents and small RVs. You have everything you need for a comfortable time camping, like flush toilets, showers, drinking water, and firepits.
If you’re not into completely roughing it, consider glamping in Banff in an oTENTik. These permanent structures have beds, electricity, and heat.
Open May 11–October 2, Two Jack Lakeside is a favorite for camping accommodations in Banff and costs less than $30 for a campsite as of this writing (check camping fees).
Final Thoughts
As you can see there are a bunch of different options to choose from when considering accommodations in Banff. All you have to do is decide what type of experience you’re in for. Is it luxury all the way? Or immersed in nature and camping lakeside. The choice is yours.
Save this to Pinterest for later!
