Where to Stay in Calgary? 10 Best places to stay in Calgary
Heading to Alberta and wondering where to stay in Calgary? We got you covered. Read more to find the best places to stay in Calgary Alberta with the top hotels’ list for all budgets.
Calgary is a beautiful city located in the western part of Canada, in the province of Alberta. Calgary is a commercial capital of Alberta and is considered to be one of the most livable cities on earth. Many tourists visit Calgary, as it is a gateway to the amazing Canadian Rockies – Banff National Park.
Whether you are visiting Calgary for a day or transiting to explore Banff, this guide to the best place to stay in Calgary has you covered. This guide has hotels from the popular neighborhoods in Calgary including hotels in southwest Calgary (Betline, Downtown Core), airport north, university, and south Calgary.
Where to Stay in Calgary? Best places to stay in Calgary Canada
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
| Airport Hotels | Why this hotel? | Booking |
|---|---|---|
| Hampton Inn by Hilton | Free airport shuttle, breakfast, parking, wifi Great airport views Price: $+ | Book Here |
| Residence Inn by Marriott | Free airport shuttle, breakfast, parking, wifi Long term stay, pet friendly Price: $+ | Book Here |
| Courtyard by Marriott | Free airport shuttle, parking, wifi Executive Stay Price: $$ | Book Here |
| Lakeview Signature Inn | Free airport, shuttle, parking, breakfast, wifi Ideal for group stays. Includes pool Price: $+ | Book Here |
| Downtown Hotels | ||
| Sheraton Suites Eau Claire | Great location, pet friendly Pool & bar on site Price: $$+ | Book Here |
| Le Germain Hotel | Great location, pet friendly Free breakfast. Spa, pool & bar on site Price: $$+ | Book Here |
| Fairmont Palliser | Great location, upscale Couples Stay. Special Occasion Price: $$$ | Book Here |
| Hyatt Regency | Luxurious, great location, warm hospitality Spa, pool, restaurant Price: $$$ | Book Here |
| Other Areas | ||
| Carriage Inn House (South) | Free breakfast, wifi, parking Price: $+ | Book Here |
| Holiday Inn Express and Suites (University) | Free breakfast, wifi, parking Family/group stays Price: $ | Book Here |
Areas Covered
- Calgary International Airport Hotels (YYC Hotels)
- Hotels in southwest Calgary (Betline, Calgary Hotels Downtown Core)
- Other areas – University and South Calgary
Calgary International Airport Hotels – Hotels close to Calgary Airport
Calgary International Airport is the fourth busiest airport in Canada. It is called YYC airport, and it connects international travelers to the Canadian Rockies (aka Banff National Park.) Banff is about an hour and a half drive away from Calgary. Downtown Calgary is located about 17- 18 kilometers from the airport.
If Banff is your ultimate goal when you arrive in Calgary and you wish to stay close to the airport, this list has you covered.
If Banff hotels are expensive for you or if no accommodation is available in Banff, then consider staying close to Calgary airport for quick access to the Canadian Rockies. (Buses are available to take you from Calgary to Banff and return. Car rental services are available at the airport as well). Get the transportation guide to Banff from Calgary
Calgary Airport Shuttle Service
All hotels located by Calgary International Airport offer free shuttle services to the airport (and return). Shuttle trips should be booked in advance with the hotel’s front desk to reserve your spot and on-time airport arrival/departure.
Note: There are no LRT (light rail transit) or bus connectivity from the airport hotels to the city centre/downtown. Car rental/cabs are an option if you wish to explore the downtown area from airport hotels. All airport hotels include FREE parking.
Hampton Inn by Hilton – North Airport ($+)
Hampton Inn by Hilton is one of our favorite hotels in Calgary. The location is great – quick access to the airport and Banff. Hampton Inn is also one of the newer hotel properties in Calgary.
It is a 3-star hotel but is packed with great value. Their rooms are spacious, clean, and beautiful. The hotel offers free breakfast every day. Parking, free airport shuttle and wifi and fitness center are included at the hotel property.
What we liked most about the hotel is how close it is to the airport, and their rooms offer great views of planes taking off and landing. Airport views are our weakness – (you may not know, but) we had stayed at this hotel, just for those views of wanderlust! So, yes definitely recommend the Hampton Inn for a quick stay-cation as well.
Hampton Inn by Hilton is also minutes away from the Cross Iron Mills Mall (biggest outlet mall in Alberta). Hampton Inn is different from Hampton Inn Suites – both located in the airport area. Hampton Inn (link is below) is located closer to the airport, and this is what we recommend, based on our experience staying there.
Residence Inn by Marriott – Calgary Airport ($+)
Another good airport hotel is the Residence Inn by Marriott. This Calgary Airport hotel features spacious guest rooms with fully equipped kitchens, free internet, free breakfast, free parking, and are ideal for long-term stays. It also includes a fitness center, indoor heated pool, and complimentary airport shuttle.
The hotel has a restaurant on-site and includes green space for leisure walking (also pet friendly). Residence Inn by Marriott is located minutes away from the Cross Iron Mill as well. The hotel has a unique evening social mixers during weekdays in the evenings for guests to partake.
Courtyard by Marriott – Calgary Airport North ($$)
Courtyard by Marriott is another Calgary Airport hotel. It is located in the same complex as the Residence Inn, listed above. Courtyard by Marriott offers executive-level luxury at a value price.
The hotel has a restaurant and bar – The Bistro – serving breakfast in the morning and drinks during the evening. Starbucks Coffee is also located here. Ideal place for “working” away from the office (if that’s a thing). Free wifi and parking are included.
What differentiates Courtyard from Residence Inn is that the former is more for quick stays and the later is ideal for long term stay. Rooms are usually always available at this hotel.
Lakeview Signature Inn Calgary Airport ($+)
Suite style living at the Lakeview Signature Inn, located by the Calgary Airport. Lakeview Signature Inn suites are perfect for long term stay. Each room is equipped with full kitchens and useful appliances.
It also provides free breakfast, complimentary shuttle, and are pet friendly. The hotel property has an indoor saltwater pool and whirlpool. You can also BBQ here during summers.
This hotel is ideal for group stays. All rooms accommodate at least 4 individuals (up to 6, in certain room types)
Best Hotels Downtown Calgary – Hotels in Southwest Calgary
Calgary Downtown or ‘city centre’ as its called, is the vibrant heart and soul of the city. Almost most of the city’s major tourist attractions are located in Downtown Calgary. This includes Calgary Tower, Stephen Avenue Walk, Glenbow Museum, ChinaTown, Eau Claire park to name a few.
The Centre City of Calgary comprises Downtown core (west end and east village), Eau Claire, Chinatown, and Betline (Betline is one of the popular communities in Calgary). The entire downtown is well connected via Calgary LRT (light rail transit) and buses.
You will find sky rise skyscrapers, art and murals, and parks (green spaces) in the city centre area. Find the best things to see in Calgary here
Why stay in Calgary Downtown?
Stay in Calgary downtown for quick access to tourist attractions. Easy transportation/commute. Enjoy the nightlife and cultural neighborhoods of Calgary.
Distance from Calgary downtown to the airport is 10-15 km ($40-45 for a taxi ride one way). Hotel parking is not free, so you will have to pay for parking if bringing your vehicle.
Sheraton suites Eau Claire ($$+)
This grand 4-star hotel in Downtown Calgary is an amazing place to stay. Sheraton Eau Claire is located in a fantastic area – close to restaurants and bars, tourist attractions, and the amazing Eau Claire – green park and market.
Sheraton Calgary’s rooms are spacious, have an upscale vibe, and offers stunning views of downtown city-scape from its rooms. Add a swimming pool and on-site bar to the mix and it is your stay-cation heaven. You will definitely feel at home here, feeling welcomed by their awesome hospitality.
Sheraton Eau Claire offers an airport shuttle (for a fee), has a currency exchange counter on-site, and is pet-friendly.
Le Germain Hotel ($$+)
Le Germain is a 4-star hotel located in Downtown Calgary. This hotel is characterized by chic and contemporary interiors. The rooms are of good size, clean and beautiful. Free breakfast and wifi are included with the hotel stay.
Parking is an additional surcharge. Le Germain is pet-friendly. Great place, with good value for money.
Restaurant (named Charcut), bar, and spa are available on site. Great location – easy access to Calgary Stampede (5 minutes) and Calgary zoo (7 minutes).
Fairmont Palliser ($$$)
One of the iconic hotels in Calgary – the Fairmont Palliser. I should admit I love heritage and buildings (Salil and I were engaged here, so this hotel is extra special). Fairmont Palliser dates back to 1914 when it opened its hospitality doors for the first time. Since then, the Fairmont along with the Calgary Tower next to each other – have been every photographer’s delight!
Fairmont Palliser rooms are luxurious. Their restaurants (on-site) – Oak Room Lounge and Rimrock Dining Room are great for slow evenings or for romantic dine-ins.
There is a reason why Salil chose this place for us. Fairmont Palliser is all about romance, royalty, and indulgence. Fairmont offers special couples spa/massage packages and bed and breakfast packages to its visitors (for a fee). Trust me, it is a sure way to win over your sweetheart!
Hyatt Calgary Downtown ($$$)
Hyatt Downtown Calgary is another 4 -star luxurious hotel, which is located close to the TELUS Convention Center and provides good access to all the tourist sightseeing/attractions and restaurants in Calgary.
Hyatt’s rooms are spacious and they offer stunning views of the downtown core including the Calgary tower. The hotel is pet-friendly as well.
Hyatt hotel also has one of the best spas in Calgary – called STILLWATER. Among other amenities include – free WIFI, on-site restaurants, swimming pool, fitness, and business centre and an executive lounge. Hyatt’s showcases its luxurious and top-notch hospitality at this downtown hotel.
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Hotels South Calgary – Hotels on MacLeod Trail Calgary
Macleod trail is a major road in Calgary. It extends from downtown Calgary to the south of the city.
It is an expressway, which extends from Calgary City Hall, Olympic Plaza, south of downtown, touches Calgary stampede grounds to Betline and all the way to Chinook Centre mall, while passing through the communities of Meadowlark Park, Kingsland, Fairview to the South centre Mall.
Due to its accessibility to any part of the city, staying at the Macleod trail is also a good option for Calgary. Most Calgary motels and hotels rate starts at $90 CAD+
Carriage House Inn – Calgary South ($+)
Carriage House Inn is a modest hotel located in MacLeod trail in south Calgary. The property is packed with various amenities like rooftop access, steam room, free wifi and parking, heated pool and sauna, gym, and swimming pool.
It is a perfect place to stay with family or for business. Close access to a golf course, skiing, shopping, and restaurants. The hotel has 4 restaurants on-site. Free breakfast is included. The rooms are spacious and clean.
Tourist areas like Calgary Stampede, downtown Calgary are located about 8 kilometers from the hotel (10 min drive). Chinook Mall (a popular mall in Calgary) is only 5 minutes away. Both buses and LRT is easily accessible from the hotel. Parking is included at no additional cost.
Calgary Hotels North West
Calgary’s northwest consists of the University of Calgary and area, and the McMahon Stadium. This area is connected well via LRT and local buses. McMahon Stadium is owned by the University of Calgary. It is a football stadium, which is well known as the seat of the 1988 Winter Olympic Games (opening and closing ceremonies were held here).
Holiday Inn Express and Suites – University ($)
If you plan to stay closer to the University area, then head to the Holiday Inn Express and Suites. This is a clean and beautiful hotel with a great price. Free parking, WIFI, and breakfast are also offered to its guests. The hotel property has a swimming pool, a hot tub, and a water-slide.
Ideal for family and group stays. The airport is located 10 kilometers away and Calgary downtown is located 6 kilometers away from the hotel. McMahon Stadium is just a few steps away. The hotel is easily accessible by C-trains (LRT) and buses.
Quick Tips for Visiting Calgary
Calgary is a metro city with sky rise buildings, light rail systems, commercial offices, malls, restaurants, and awesome nightlife. The closest airport to Banff National is Calgary. So it is worth spending a day or so in exploring Calgary on your visit to Banff (or if you are making travel connections via Calgary)
- The best time to visit Calgary is summer – May to August, followed by winter months from November to January.
- Summer will be busy due to the influx of travelers to Banff. There are tons of riverside (including segway tours) activities in summer. Wintertime calls for snowboarding and other Christmas lights related events. (Fairmont Palliser hotel showcases a huge gingerbread at their lobby during the holiday season)
- CAD – Canadian dollars are used in Calgary. Credit cards are widely accepted at all stores, hotels, gas stations.
- Hotel Tip – Most hotels will take a deposit of $50/ night as collateral for damages. They are returned back to the credit card upon check-out.
- Hotel Tip 2 – Sign up for rewards program to collect points (Hilton Rewards, for example)
- Insure your trip – Get a quote for your insuring your stay in Calgary and beyond
- Activities in Calgary – Book a tour with a local guide – to explore Calgary
| Airport Hotels | Why this hotel? | Booking |
|---|---|---|
| Hampton Inn by Hilton | Free airport shuttle, breakfast, parking, wifi Great airport views Price: $+ | Book Here |
| Residence Inn by Marriott | Free airport shuttle, breakfast, parking, wifi Long term stay, pet friendly Price: $+ | Book Here |
| Courtyard by Marriott | Free airport shuttle, parking, wifi Executive Stay Price: $$ | Book Here |
| Lakeview Signature Inn | Free airport, shuttle, parking, breakfast, wifi Ideal for group stays. Includes pool Price: $+ | Book Here |
| Downtown Hotels | ||
| Sheraton Suites Eau Claire | Great location, pet friendly Pool & bar on site Price: $$+ | Book Here |
| Le Germain Hotel | Great location, pet friendly Free breakfast. Spa, pool & bar on site Price: $$+ | Book Here |
| Fairmont Palliser | Great location, upscale Couples Stay. Special Occasion Price: $$$ | Book Here |
| Hyatt Regency | Luxurious, great location, warm hospitality Spa, pool, restaurant Price: $$$ | Book Here |
| Other Areas | ||
| Carriage Inn House (South) | Free breakfast, wifi, parking Price: $+ | Book Here |
| Holiday Inn Express and Suites (University) | Free breakfast, wifi, parking Family/group stays Price: $ | Book Here |
Additional Reading
- One day in Calgary: Find the top activities to do in Calgary in one day
- Calgary to Drumheller: Guide to things to do in Drumheller
- Visiting Banff National Park? Here is a foodie guide to Banff
- When to visit Banff? Here is the ultimate guide on the when to go to Banff
- Banff in winter: Banff and Lake Louise Winter Guide
- Canmore Guide: Guide to the Town of Canmore
- Visit Alberta’s capital city – Edmonton in winter
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
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