Banff hotels

As a local who loves exploring the town, I can confidently say that the Fairmont Banff Springs is one of the best hotels in Banff. This iconic property, often referred to as the ‘Castle in the Rockies’, offers a unique blend of elegance and history. Every time I visit, I'm captivated by its stunning architecture and gorgeous views.

The rooms are elegantly designed, providing a cosy retreat after a day of adventure. I particularly enjoy dining at the hotel's diverse restaurants, including the fine dining experience at 1888 Chop House, the casual offerings at Castello Ristorante, and the authentic Japanese cuisine at Samurai Sushi Bar and Restaurant.

One of my favourite experiences, though, has to be the traditional afternoon tea, where you can relax with a selection of teas and delicious pastries. For anyone seeking an unforgettable stay in Banff, this is it.

Located right in the heart of Banff town centre, the Mount Royal Hotel offers easy access to all the local attractions, shops, and restaurants. The updated guestrooms effortlessly blend modern design with historic touches, capturing the essence of the area's rich heritage. The rooftop hot tubs are a favourite of mine, providing a perfect spot to relax while taking in the stunning mountain views.

I also appreciate the cosy library (with its free coffee bar) and the friendly, knowledgeable staff, who are always on hand to offer great local recommendations. The hotel's newly renovated interior, meanwhile, provides the perfect blend of comfort and charm.

Whether I’m enjoying a night cap at the on-site restaurant Brazen or unwinding after a day in the great outdoors, the Mount Royal Hotel ticks all the boxes as one of the best hotels in Banff.

Perched on the edge of Sulphur Mountain, The Rimrock Resort Hotel is a luxurious retreat that feels worth every penny. The elegant rooms are designed with comfort in mind, with plush bedding and upscale toiletries. Dining at the hotel’s fine restaurants, particularly Eden, is always a highlight for me, with its award-winning Five Diamond menu and panoramic vistas that make every meal an experience.

The resort’s proximity to the Banff Upper Hot Springs and the Banff Gondola means adventure is always just a step away. After a day of exploring, I love unwinding in the indoor pool or indulging in a spa treatment.

The attentive and friendly staff consistently ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, often going above and beyond to cater to personal preferences, like remembering my favourite drinks. The blend of natural beauty, refined luxury and exceptional service here create a serene and welcoming atmosphere, making it one of the best hotels in Banff.

Located in the heart of the town centre area, the Elk + Avenue Hotel is one of the best hotels in Banff for its blend of modern style and mountain charm at an affordable price. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms that are comfortable and modern. But the real draw here is the central location, which makes it easy to enjoy the town's lively nightlife and restaurants.

One of my favourite aspects of the hotel is the warm and inviting reception, where guests can relax by the fireplace with a cup of coffee after a day of hiking or skiing. The on-site Farm & Fire restaurant serves delicious farm-to-table meals, making dining in as appealing as exploring local eateries.

The Elk + Avenue Hotel’s combination of stylish comfort, convenient location, and attentive service (all at a budget-friendly rate) make it a fantastic choice for a memorable stay in Banff.

Peaks Hotel & Suites is an excellent choice for families looking to enjoy the great outdoors in Banff. Conveniently located just a short walk from the town centre, the Bow River and Banff Central Park, it offers easy access to all the local attractions.

The modern, spacious rooms are designed with features like touchless room keys for utmost convenience. I particularly appreciate the thoughtful amenities like the family-friendly suites with crib options and spacious living rooms, as well as the large car park (a rarity in Banff).

I also loved the small kitchen in my loft suite, which allowed me to enjoy a few homemade meals with ingredients from the local market, which is open on Wednesdays from mid-Spring to late September. The hotel's proximity to hiking trails, ski slopes and natural wonders makes it one of the best hotels in Banff for exploring the stunning landscape.

Located a stone's throw from Banff's bustling core, the Moose Hotel and Suites stands out with its distinctive blend of modern elegance and rustic charm. Every stay here feels like a genuine retreat, thanks to the beautifully designed suites that echo the spirit of the Rockies with warm wood accents and cosy fireplaces.

One of my highlights has to be the rooftop hot pools – soaking in them while gazing at the panoramic mountain views is a magical experience. The hotel's on-site restaurant, Pacini, offers a delightful culinary journey with its authentic Italian dishes and inviting ambiance.

Whether I’m embarking on a nearby hiking trail or hitting the ski slopes, the hotel’s prime location makes it one of the best hotels in Banff for experiencing the area’s natural beauty.

Tucked away in a serene corner of Banff, Canalta Lodge feels like a hidden gem and offers a charming escape. The lodge’s inviting ambiance, characterised by rustic wood interiors and warm, earthy tones, makes it feel like a mountain haven. I particularly enjoy the outdoor courtyard with its fire pits and hot tubs – perfect for stargazing on clear nights or warming up after a day on the slopes.

The guestrooms are spacious and thoughtfully designed, providing a perfect mix of comfort and functionality. Breakfast at the lodge is always a treat, with a hearty spread that will set you up for a day of adventure. Whether it's skiing, hiking or simply exploring the stunning surroundings, Canalta Lodge's convenient location makes it easy to access Banff’s main attractions.

Tucked away in a secluded area on Tunnel Mountain, Hidden Ridge Resort is a tranquil retreat with spectacular views. This unique hotel in Banff features spacious flat-style suites with fully-equipped kitchens and wood-burning fireplaces, perfect for families and extended stays. Meanwhile, the outdoor heated pools are a major highlight for me, providing a serene setting to soak and relax while gazing at the mountain vistas.

The resort's proximity to hiking trails and outdoor activities makes it an ideal base for adventure enthusiasts. Despite its secluded feel, I appreciate that Hidden Ridge Resort is just a short drive from central Banff, providing easy access to the town's vibrant dining and shopping scene.

The combination of rustic charm, modern amenities and stunning natural beauty makes Hidden Ridge Resort one of the best hotels to stay in Banff.

Hotel Canoe and Suites combines rustic charm with modern amenities to provide a unique experience in Banff. Conveniently located near the centre of town, it offers easy access to all the key local attractions.

The hotel's warm, wood-accented decor creates a restful lodge-like atmosphere that immediately makes you feel at home. The outdoor hot tubs are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. With stunning views of the surrounding mountains, it’s a tranquil spot to relax and take in the scenery.

The spacious suites are thoughtfully designed, featuring comfortable furnishings and fully-equipped kitchenettes – ideal for longer stays or if you like cooking your own meals. Each room is adorned with locally-inspired artworks, in a nod to Banff's artist community.

Banff Aspen Lodge offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking comfort and convenience in Banff. The spacious, modern guestrooms are thoughtfully designed to ensure a relaxing stay. I was particularly impressed by the fireplaces in each room, providing a perfect spot to unwind with a glass of wine.

One of the highlights of Banff Aspen Lodge is its complimentary breakfast, which includes a variety of delicious options ranging from scrambled eggs to bakery goods that helped me start my day off right before skiing. The surrounding beautiful mountain views offer a relaxing way to close the day.

The central location of the lodge is ideal, offering access to all that the town centre has to offer, easily earning it a place on my list of the best hotels in Banff.