The Ultimate 5-Day Calgary Adventure Guide

Discover the Wild West in Calgary, Canada.

22 April 2023

Calgary welcomes tourists with its rugged beauty, cowboy culture, and modern cityscape. Visitors can explore the city's downtown core with iconic landmarks like the Calgary Tower or venture out to the nearby Canadian Rockies for stunning natural scenery. With a thriving culinary scene and plenty of outdoor activities, Calgary promises to be a memorable destination for any traveler.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Get Acquainted with Calgary

  • Stay at the Alt Hotel Calgary East Village with its trendy industrial design elements and convenience to downtown Calgary
  • Start your day off with a steaming cup of coffee at Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters
  • Explore downtown on foot with a stroll through Stephen Avenue Walk, a pedestrian mall lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings
  • Visit the iconic Calgary Tower for panoramic views of the city
  • Head to River Café for farm-to-fork Canadian cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
  • Unwind at the rooftop bar of The Nash, a contemporary restaurant and bar with inventive cocktails and small plates
Day 2

Discover Calgary's Unique History

  • Explore the Heritage Park Historical Village to experience life in Western Canada during the 1860s to the 1950s
  • Marvel at the world's largest indoor rodeo at the Calgary Stampede
  • Witness the birthplace of Calgary at Fort Calgary, where you'll learn about the city's early settlers and historic events
  • Take a walk through the Inglewood neighbourhood, home to Calgary's oldest buildings and a vibrant arts and culture scene
  • Grab a drink and a bite at Spolumbo's Sausage & Deli, a Calgary institution known for its hearty sandwiches and homemade sausage
  • End the day with a pint at National on 10th, a lively spot with dozens of craft beers on tap.
Day 3

Embrace the Outdoors

  • Head to Banff National Park, just an hour and a half drive from Calgary, to hike or snowshoe through picturesque mountain landscapes
  • Soak in the healing waters of Banff Hot Springs, an outdoor pool surrounded by stunning views of the Rockies
  • Take a guided bike tour through the Bow River Valley, spotting wildlife and taking in the natural beauty
  • Savour a hearty meal accompanied by stunning views of Cascade Mountain at The Bison Restaurant
  • Indulge in dessert at 1883 Patisserie, an artisan bakery with a French twist
  • Return to the Alt Hotel Calgary East Village to rest and recharge for another day of adventure.
Day 4

Art and Culture Exploration

  • Visit the Glenbow Museum to learn about Western Canadian art, culture, and history
  • Take in a show at Theatre Calgary, the city's oldest and largest theatre company
  • Wander through the Calgary Central Library, a stunning architectural masterpiece filled with vibrant spaces for reading, studying, and socializing
  • Enjoy a meal at the cozy and quaint Avec Bistro, known for its classic French fare and warm ambiance
  • Sip on unique cocktails at Proof, a rustic and chic bar with an extensive list of drinks made with local spirits
  • Get a good night's sleep at the Alt Hotel Calgary East Village, ready for your final day in Calgary.
Day 5

Shopping and Farewell

  • Hit up the Calgary Farmers' Market for fresh and locally sourced produce, meats, and baked goods
  • Find souvenirs and unique finds at the historic Eau Claire Market, now an eclectic mix of shops and entertainment
  • Take a stroll through trendy neighbourhoods like Mission or Kensington, filled with independent shops and boutiques
  • Enjoy a farewell dinner at Model Milk, a restaurant known for its contemporary Canadian cuisine and charming aesthetic
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with handmade chocolates at Choklat, a chocolatier with a wide variety of inventive flavours
  • Reflect on your time in Calgary while sipping on a nightcap at Betty Lou's Library, an intimate speakeasy-style bar hidden within the Deane House restaurant.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Calgary, Canada by plane is to fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC). There are multiple airlines that offer direct flights to YYC from various destinations around the world.

Car

To get to Calgary, Canada by car, you can take the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) if you are coming from the east or west. If you are coming from the south, you can take the Queen Elizabeth II Highway (Highway 2).

Train

There is no direct train service to Calgary, Canada. However, you can take a train to the neighboring city of Edmonton and then continue the journey by bus or car to Calgary.

Boat

There is no direct boat access to Calgary, Canada as it is a landlocked city. However, there are several rivers and lakes in the surrounding area that can be accessed by boat for recreational purposes.

Bus

The best way to get to Calgary, Canada by bus is to take a Greyhound or Red Arrow bus. These buses provide service to Calgary from various cities across Canada and the United States.

Destination

Calgary

Nestled in the heart of cowboy country, Calgary offers everything from rodeos to high-end shopping. And don't worry, the horses in the city are just for show.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

5 Days of Romance & Adventure in Calgary

A romantic trip to Calgary, Canada promises to be filled with stunning scenery, exciting adventures and cosy moments. From exploring the rugged beauty of Banff National Park to taking in the city's vibrant nightlife, couples can experience the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. With cozy lodges, spas and charming restaurants, Calgary offers the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.

Calgary Adventure: 3 Days of Fun and Exploration

Visiting Calgary as a tourist means experiencing the vibrant energy of Western Canada. You can explore stunning outdoor scenery in Banff National Park or relax downtown with endless dining and entertainment options. Hockey lovers can catch a Calgary Flames game at the Saddledome while enjoying the lively atmosphere of a Canadian hockey game.

Calgary Adventures: 3 Days of Wild Fun!

A trip to Calgary on a limited budget can still be enjoyable. Visit attractions such as the Calgary Tower, Glenbow Museum and Prince's Island Park, which are free or low-cost. Eat at local bakeries and food trucks, and utilize public transportation to save money.

Romantic Day Trip: Calgary's Best Picks

Calgary, located in the province of Alberta, is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. With breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and numerous outdoor activities, couples can take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature. The city also offers a variety of restaurants, art galleries, and cultural events to explore.