For those who’re on the lookout for one of the best 3 days in Banff itinerary you’ve come to the correct place!
This dreamy mountain city set within the coronary heart of the Canadian Rockies is a spot excessive on lots of people’s bucket lists, and for good causes.
This mountain resort city is residence to a few of Canada’s most stunning surroundings, wildlife and superb actions.
The city itself is surrounded by almost 7000 sq. kilometres of the spectacular Banff Nationwide Park simply ready to be explored. And for a first-time customer, 3 good days in Banff offers you simply the style you’ll want to be hooked.
Whereas the city is simple sufficient to get round on foot or by bike, with a purpose to attain among the trailheads and sights it’s best to have a automobile.
Nevertheless, if that isn’t in your funds you’ll nonetheless have the ability to see tons of what Banff has to supply however using the general public transit system and shuttles, particularly for the ski hills.
Many of the lodges and eating places are situated in the principle downtown space, which can be one of many prettiest within the Rockies.
READ MORE: Click on right here for a extra detailed information on what to do in Banff!
Stroll by the parks, take pleasure in some afternoon drinks on a patio and simply soak within the views. They’re in every single place you take care of all so it’s laborious to overlook them.
Tens of millions of holiday makers flock to Banff yearly for snowboarding, climbing, or simply exploring the good outdoor of Banff Nationwide Park.
It doesn’t matter what your journey model or funds, you’ll have the ability to discover one thing to do right here for everybody.
My 3-day Banff itinerary contains all these epic spots:
- The Icefields Parkway
- Banff Nationwide Park
- Lake Louise and Lake Moraine
- Cave and Basin Nationwide Historic Web site
- Biking round downtown
- Johnston Canyon
- Two Jack Lake
- Vermillion Lakes
- Lake Minnewanka
- Banff Gondola
- Bow Falls
- And lots extra…
My Final 3 Days in Banff Itinerary
From Banff Nationwide Park and the well-known Lake Louise to the museums, spas, and ski resorts, there are such a lot of sights to maintain you busy throughout a 3 day Banff itinerary.
You’ll be shocked how a lot you are able to do right here in 3 days. So hopefully this Banff itinerary will provide help to take advantage of your journey.
Day 1 – The Icefields Parkway, Lake Louise and Lake Moraine in Banff Nationwide Park
With no business airport, it’s doubtless that after your flight you’ll have a automotive journey forward of you to kick begin your itinerary for 3 days in Banff.
If not you’ll need to lease a automotive and begin driving by Banff Nationwide Park alongside considered one of Canada’s most stunning stretches of freeway.
The easiest way to get round is to lease a automotive and discover by yourself! We advocate Rental Automobiles, which has the biggest vary of autos for one of the best worth available on the market.
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
The very first thing you’ll want to do on any 3 day Banff itinerary is seize your automotive and go for a spectacular drive to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and alongside the Icefields Parkway.
About an hour up the highway you’ll come to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, two of the crown jewels within the Banff Nationwide Park.
We advocate heading up early to look at the dawn over Moraine Lake, the place you’ll be completely amazed on the good reflections of the ten peaks on the nonetheless physique of water.
For those who’re up for a enjoyable exercise, lease a canoe and paddle out on Moraine Lake.
Afterward, drive again in direction of Lake Louise and spend an hour or two wandering across the lake.
If it’s winter, undoubtedly seize some ice skates and go for a carve on the massive frozen physique of water. The views from Lake Louise are severely subsequent degree.
Another driving route for those who’re coming to Lake Louise from Banff city is the Bow Valley Parkway. This scenic winding route from Banff to Lake Louise is quiet and peaceable. The Bow Valley Parkway is 48km a technique.
The Icefields Parkway
Subsequent, hit the Icefields Parkway after having fun with Lake Louise.
This is named one of many world’s greatest highway journeys, and you’ll’t go to Banff Nationwide Park with out checking it out.
The highway stretches from Lake Louise all the way in which to Jasper Nationwide Park, and alongside the way in which you’ll discover among the most stunning spots in all of Canada.
From Athabasca Falls, to Sunwapto Falls, to the Columbia Icefield, you’re going to be stopping the automotive rather a lot for photographs, we are able to assure that.
For those who make all of it the way in which to Jasper Nationwide Park, one other spotlight of the Canadian Rockies, take a look at Maligne Lake and Canyon and Pyramid Lake.
Bow Lake is likely one of the greatest issues to see in Banff Nationwide Park, situated about 37 km north of Lake Louise. Take a dip in Bow Lake for those who dare! It’s stunning for a swim however the water is freezing so it’s greatest on a scorching summer season day.
Peyto Lake is one other beautiful spot.
When you’ve seen every little thing you’ll be able to on the Icefields Parkway and Banff Nationwide Park, and also you’ve snapped a lot of photographs of Lake Louise, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and Moraine Lake, make your manner again to Banff.
Learn subsequent: The Greatest Issues To Do In Jasper, Canada
Discover Banff City
When you arrive in Banff city, you’ll need to get proper into exploring. Whereas the city of Banff just isn’t large it does have tons to be explored, and the most effective methods to do this is by renting a motorcycle and touring Banff city.
A listing of trails surrounding the city can be discovered right here however the downtown space has well-marked cycle paths for these visiting Banff.
For those who’re on foot cease into Wildflower Bakery for a espresso to wake you up and head right down to the Bow River Path in your first little bit of exploring.
The paved path runs parallel to the Bow River and is admittedly simply the proper place for a stroll, to sit down out and benefit from the view, or go for a run.
Wander by the attractive parks and ultimately, you’ll come to the Banff Park Museum.
This beautiful little museum is housed in a historic log manor from 1903 and also you’ll have the ability to discover out all kinds of enjoyable details concerning the city of Banff and what it has seen over time.
It’s additionally a extremely cool place to see some unbelievable artifacts and an enormous assortment of wildlife specimens from the Rockies.
Not too far off from right here, you’ll additionally discover the Whyte Museum of the Candian Rockies.
This museum presents guests an opportunity to dive deep into the tradition of the Rockies in addition to acquire a greater understanding of the primary individuals who settled right here.
Reveals right here change usually however the everlasting assortment contains objects from Banff’s historical past with sports activities, snowboarding and the good outdoor.
To maintain with the museum theme the Buffalo Nations Museum is a good alternative to study extra concerning the indigenous peoples of Canada and what they’ve delivered to not solely the city however the surrounding provinces.
The most effective methods to spend 3 days in Banff is heading out to Cave and Basin Nationwide Historic Web site.
The thermal waters that encompass this space have been fairly a major side of Banff historical past since 1883 after they have been found by railway employees.
There are each day excursions supplied which permit guests to expertise the world and stand up shut and private with the unbelievable effervescent waters.
There are additionally lantern excursions supplied from Could-August to see the caves by a lantern which is admittedly particular.
To cap off the primary day of your itinerary for 3 days in Banff you’ll be hoping for a transparent evening. Why you may ask? Nicely, a transparent evening is the easiest way to expertise a darkish sky protect.
Bundle up and head out to Stargaze in Banff on any bench downtown. However if you’d like the proper spot it must be free from any lights from vehicles or lampposts.
Driving a bit of manner out of city might help with this, or heading to the Bow Valley car parking zone even. You’ll doubtless by no means have seen stars so shiny till you see them in Banff.
READ MORE: Plan your journey to Canada with our complete Journey Information.
Day 2 – Canyons, Lakes & Scorching Springs
As you kick off your 2nd day in Banff, you’re hopefully waking as much as a beautiful dawn over the mountains.
Pack your baggage, seize your digital camera, and don’t neglect your bathing go well with, sure even in winter. You’ll be off for one superior day in Banff.
Exploring the Lakes & Johnston Canyon
It doesn’t matter what time of 12 months you’ll at all times have the ability to discover one thing superb to do in Banff. It could simply be a matter of whether or not or not you like skating on the lakes to swimming in them.
One of the vital visited areas can be one of the vital stunning in summer season or winter.
Johnston Canyon is lower than a 30-minute drive and could have you feeling as for those who’ve stepped into one other world.
Within the wintertime, Johnston Canyon stuffed with waterfalls freezes over and turns into an unbelievable place to stroll.
This exercise could be completed by yourself however for those who don’t have your personal gear you’ll be able to take part on a day journey the place you’ll have the ability to expertise these 30 m excessive frozen falls and see the canyon in a complete new manner.
Visiting within the hotter months means you’ll have the ability to hike by Johnston Canyon, expertise the rope bridges and get proper up near the waterfalls.
A very breathtaking spot, and one you would spend all day. However with solely 3 days in Banff you’ll be eager to take a look at extra.
Whereas the mountains are what draw guests to this a part of Canada, the Lakes are equally as spectacular and there are a couple of to not be missed whereas staying in Banff.
Alongside the TransCanada Freeway is the place you’ll discover Two Jack Lake, the proper spot for a day picnic and a hike.
The three.2 km loop path is properly marked and offers you entry to the attractive lake and in addition connects to a campground.
Vermillion Lakes is situated simply west of Banff and is the proper place for a paddle.
On the base of the unbelievable Mount Rundle, Vermillion Lakes is nice for renting canoes and soaking within the views from the boat.
READ MORE: Take a look at this information to the greatest hikes in Banff
Or make your manner out right here within the depths of winter because it’s a fantastic spot to catch the Northern Lights.
One of the vital well-known lakes within the space lies simply to the East and also you’ve in all probability seen it on any variety of postcards.
Lake Minnewanka is glacially fed which provides it that beautiful turquoise color.
At 21km lengthy, this lake is likely one of the largest within the Rockies and excellent for any variety of actions.
An incredible solution to benefit from the lake is by reserving a guided wildlife tour. Not solely are you able to take a look at the surroundings, however your native information will provide help to spot some wildlife like elk, deer, and bighorn sheep.
Within the winter there are cross nation ski and snowshoe trails arrange throughout Lake Minnewanka.
The climbing trails within the space are additionally value trying out. Particularly, the Devils Hole path which takes you up above Lake Minnewanka for some beautiful views.
Banff Higher Scorching Springs
After a day of exploring the easiest way to finish, it’s with a dip on the Banff Higher Scorching Springs.
Soak within the attractive thermal swimming pools whereas searching over the mountains, and don’t let a bit of chilly climate or snow scare you off both.
Banff Higher Scorching Springs is the proper spot to look at the snowfall. For extra info and charges go to the web site.
For an ideal cap to the second of your 3 Days in Banff itinerary head to the Fairmont Banff Springs for a meal in considered one of their many eating places or a drink within the automotive.
Wanting like a fortress and with among the greatest views of the mountains it’s a must-visit location even when staying there may be out of your funds.
Day 3 – The Banff Gondola and Climbing
The final of your 3 Days in Banff itinerary has arrived, however by no means worry you’ll be in for an unbelievable day within the mountains to complete issues off.
We’ve devoted the final of this 3 day Banff itinerary to the superb climbing trails. For those who’re visiting in winter and like to hit the slopes, Lake Louise Ski Resort is likely one of the greatest locations to ski or snowboard within the Canadian Rockies.
You possibly can select to spend a day visiting Lake Louise and the ski slopes, or do the climbing and sightseeing listed beneath!
So earlier than a day of climbing, seize a hearty breakfast in Banff city at Coyotes Southwestern Grill earlier than kicking off a magical mountain journey within the nationwide park.
Banff Climbing Trails
For some nice views and enjoyable hikes, you don’t have to embark on a 7-hour journey to see it.
The most effective methods to spend 3 days in Banff is by looking for one of the best views and one of the best hikes.
However you actually don’t have to go far to seek out these issues.
Bow Valley Falls is situated pretty near the enduring Fairmont Banff Springs and could be accessed from city on foot pretty simply.
Whereas these falls should not the very best within the space they produce an enormous quantity of water which is so cool to see.
There’s a path right here that takes you up above the falls, nonetheless, that is closed within the winter however the viewpoint remains to be open.
No itinerary for 3 days in Banff may very well be full with out seeing the most effective views of the city so make sure to head up Tunnel Mountain.
Simply reached from city you’ll be able to entry the trailhead from Tunnel Mountain highway and up you go, 2.5 km to the summit.
You’ll have the ability to see all of Banff from above and the turquoise lakes and rivers operating by the middle.
In your manner again by city seize some lunch to go from Laggan’s Deli and head out for a hike.
North of Banff between Norquay and Banks head is Cascade Mountain, one of the vital visited trails within the space.
Alternating scrambles and switchbacks will certainly make you sweat however the views alongside the way in which will likely be greater than well worth the effort. This path just isn’t best for winter guests, so in case your journey takes you out within the winter months go for Rawson Lake.
Surrounded by unbelievable peaks you’ll be able to hike this path with or with out snowshoes and also you’ll discover probably the most beautiful panoramic views from the highest.
Banff Gondola
As you head again out of your afternoon of climbing ensure you cease in on the Banff Gondola which travels up Sulphur Mountain.
On the summit of Sulphur Mountain, the whole Rocky Mountain vary will likely be on show so that you can admire.
Benefit from the cable automotive journey up by the bushes and snap dozens or a whole bunch of pictures from the remark deck because the solar units over the mountains.
Get pleasure from a drink on the onsite Sky Bistro or keep and have dinner. For extra particulars click on right here.
To cap off your superb 3 days in Banff, head to Park Distillery.
Utilizing the freshest and purest waters in Canada, style your manner by their number of whiskeys, gins and vodkas to seek out your favorite for a nightcap.
READ MORE: Make sure to add these different nice issues to do in Banff to your itinerary.
Banff Journey Information
Now that you understand what to do in Banff, right here is a few info that may assist you understand one of the best time to go to, tips on how to get round, the place to remain and what to eat while you go to.
When to Go to Banff
In relation to planning your 3 days in Banff itinerary one factor you’ll need to know is when one of the best time to go to will likely be.
The reply to this actually will depend on what kind of actions you’re hoping to do right here.
For those who’re after a winter wonderland journey stuffed with skating, snowboarding, scorching tubs and snowy views you’ll need to go to Banff within the winter.
From December till March you’ll discover Banff Nationwide Park lined in a blanket of pristine sparkly snow, but in addition could expertise extraordinarily chilly temperatures.
For those who’re hoping for sunny skies and heat afternoons for climbing, canoeing and swimming Could by September are the proper months in your journey.
The climate within the Rockies could be barely temperamental so don’t depend on the forecast in your journey, it doubtless will change.
If over breakfast the snow is dumping down, you would expertise sunny blue skies by lunchtime.
Or for those who’re out climbing within the heat climate, by the point you summit, the temperatures may drop drastically.
So it’s at all times greatest to be ready by layering up.
Getting Round Banff
Downtown Banff is ideal for strolling or biking. For those who base your self throughout the city heart you’ll by no means be various minutes from the retailers, eating places and exquisite parks.
If you’re trying to get out a bit additional or have restricted mobility there’s a public transit system known as Roam. You will discover all the small print on routes and schedules right here.
If you’re arriving into the Rockies on a flight, you’ll doubtless fly into Calgary, and from there you’ll have the ability to get a coach or non-public switch from the airport proper to Banff city heart.
Nevertheless, the best possibility on tips on how to tour Banff in 3 days will certainly be by automotive.
If you’re arriving into Banff by prepare there are a number of automotive rental corporations on the town to take a look at.
Moreover, there are dozens of automotive rental alternatives from the airport.
If you’re visiting within the winter make sure to select a rental automobile that’s geared up with winter tires particularly for those who plan to do any backcountry climbing the place the roads is probably not cleared.
For exploring Banff Nationwide Park by yourself schedule, a rental automotive is the way in which to go.
The easiest way to get round is to lease a automotive and discover by yourself! We advocate Rental Automobiles, which has the biggest vary of autos for one of the best worth available on the market.
The place to Keep in Banff
Exploring Banff in 3 days you’ll absolutely be spending on daily basis in your toes. This implies in terms of selecting someplace to relaxation up for the subsequent day you’ll need to ensure you’ve made the correct selection.
From cabins tucked away within the woods, to central lodges with stunning mountain views, to lodges in Banff Nationwide Park, there are a lot of choices.
You’ll discover stunning resorts with unbelievable facilities like spas and heated out of doors swimming pools, and budget-friendly social hostels good for assembly new journey buddies.
The city of Banff is probably not enormous nevertheless it undoubtedly doesn’t lack lodging choices for each funds on any model of journey.
Lodging In Banff
The Greatest Hostel in Banff – Samesun Hostel
For those who’re on the lookout for one of the best hostel that’s central to city, whereas having an epic social gathering ambiance, that is the spot for you.
The Samesun Hostel is a part of the good chain discovered everywhere in the nation, and you’ll want to do your self a favour and keep in at the least one throughout your journey right here.
In Banff they’ve a fantastic social space each indoors and outdoor, a kitchen, cozy rooms and storage for skis and snowboard gear.
Greatest Price range Lodging for {Couples} – Banff Rocky Mountain Resort
For those who’re on a romantic getaway Banff Rocky Mountain Resort is the proper place for rest.
With a comfortable laid again cabin vibe, there may be additionally a stunning restaurant on-site and out of doors scorching tubs to look at the celebs along with your associate after a day of exploring.
Greatest Mid-Vary Lodge in Banff – Fox Lodge & Suites
Lower than a 10-minute stroll from the city centre, The Fox Lodge is in one of the best location.
Conserving with the mountain vibe with the decor in each room and the widespread areas, this resort will hold your mountain-loving vacation going sturdy whilst you sleep.
Greatest Luxurious Lodge in Banff – Fairmont Banff Springs
If you wish to expertise staying in a Canadian Fort, look no additional than the Fairmont Banff Springs. Upscale rooms with private jacuzzis, unbelievable eating choices and probably the most stunning mountain views from in every single place.
That is the quintessential fairytale location in your 3 day Banff itinerary.
Greatest Eating places In Banff
Whereas the city of Banff could be small, there may be nothing small concerning the foods and drinks selections right here. A melting pot of cultures and cuisines for each customer with any funds.
Price range – Bear Road Tavern
Within the heart of city, you’ll discover Bear Road Tavern. Superb pizzas, salads and high quality pub meals with a fantastic beer menu to match.
Plus they’ve an superior patio, good for summer season.
Mid-Vary – The Grizzly Home
The Grizzly Home is a landmark in Banff and one of the best fondue restaurant within the Rockies. Plus they hold issues attention-grabbing with issues like alligator and rattlesnake on the menu.
Be courageous or get pleasure from a traditional, it’s all improbable!
Excessive-Finish – The Bison Restaurant
Whether or not you’re visiting The Bison Restaurant in the summertime for his or her patio or winter for a comfortable post-ski meal, the entire menu is scrumptious.
A farm to desk strategy with domestically sourced and seasonal creations good for any meal.
One other excessive finish restaurant possibility is the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise superb eating restaurant. This can be a luxurious resort on Lake Louise, so even for those who can’t afford staying at this magnificent resort, you’ll be able to nonetheless get pleasure from an unbelievable meal there.
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