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Planning a snowy getaway to Banff? Well, you’ve come to the right place!
This mountain town in the heart of the Canadian Rockies is stunning any time of year, but winter is especially magical. When we lived down the road in Canmore, we would come here all the time to ski in the colder months, but that’s not all that’s on offer here. From ice walks to stargazing (and maybe even catching the Northern Lights), there are tons of amazing experiences to be had during the winter in Banff.
With that in mind, we’ve curated this insider 3-day itinerary to help you make the most of Banff’s spectacular winter scene and cozy alpine vibes. Let’s get into it!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE activity in Banff in winter is this scenic gondola ride. The views from Sulphur Mountain are breathtaking, and walking the ridge-top boardwalk to the old weather station made it feel like we were on top of the world!
Day 1
Breakfast – Wild Flour Bakery
If you’re anything like us, nothing kickstarts a day of adventure quite like a cozy café and a fresh pastry. Wild Flour Bakery, a local favorite right in downtown Banff, opens bright and early at 7 am, making it perfect for a quick breakfast before your morning at the Banff Gondola.
Expect rich, locally roasted coffee, flaky croissants, hearty breakfast sandwiches, and a few vegan-friendly treats too. It’s just a short stroll to the Roam Transit bus stop on Banff Avenue, so you’ll be warm and fueled up and ready for the mountains in no time.
Morning – Take the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain
After breakfast, it’s time to head for one of Banff’s absolute must-do experiences, the Banff Gondola! Just a 5-minute drive from town (or a quick ride on the Roam public bus Route 1), the gondola whisks you up Sulphur Mountain for some of the most jaw-dropping views in the Rockies. If you’re planning on driving, try to get here early, as the parking spaces fill up quickly!
We’ve done this ride nearly a dozen times ourselves, and it never gets old. The gondola ride itself is quick and scenic, taking just about 8 minutes to reach the summit. Gondolas start running at 10:10 am and leave every 20 minutes throughout the day, so even if you miss one, you’ll never be waiting long. The exact times vary by date, so be sure to check before you go!
At the top, an incredible 7,510 feet (2,289 meters) above sea level, you’ll find panoramic viewpoints, interactive exhibits, a cozy café, and a gift shop. Most people spend around 2 to 3 hours exploring everything up here, including the boardwalk that leads out to the historic Sulphur Mountain Weather Station.
The gondola is open year-round, but it can get icy or snowy in winter, so make sure to wear sturdy boots or bring traction grips for a safe and comfortable walk. It’s an easy, rewarding walk, taking about an hour round-trip if you want to go all the way to the end, and trust us, the winter views from there are worth every step.
Book your Banff Gondola admission tickets ahead of time here!
Related Read: Looking to save a little on this experience? Check out our guide on how to find discounted Banff Gondola tickets here before you book!
Lunch – Sky Bistro
After exploring the summit, there’s no better way to keep soaking in the views than by sitting down for lunch at Sky Bistro. Perched right at the top of the Banff Gondola, this spot pairs incredible mountain scenery with a cozy, modern atmosphere, making it a real highlight of the day.
Sky Bistro is open daily for lunch from 11 am to 2 pm, and we definitely recommend making a reservation in advance if you can. If you’re able to snag a table by the window, you’ll be treated to panoramic views while you enjoy a locally inspired menu featuring hearty Canadian classics and fresh seasonal ingredients.
Afternoon – Banff Upper Hot Springs
After a big morning of sightseeing and a delicious mountaintop lunch, there’s nothing better than winding down with a soak at the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Conveniently located right at the base of Sulphur Mountain, the hot springs are just a short walk from the gondola’s lower terminal, so make sure to pack a swimsuit and towel in your day bag!
The mineral-rich waters here stay naturally heated to around 37–40 °C (98–104 °F), offering a soothing, spa-like experience with gorgeous mountain views all around. Admission to the swimming pool is $17.50 CAD per adult, or you can upgrade to the full Thermal Waters Pass for $24 CAD per adult to make it extra special.
These hot springs are open year-round and the perfect way to warm up on a cold winter’s day! The operating hours are typically 10 am to 10 pm during the winter months, but I’d recommend double-checking before you go.
Dinner – The Grizzly House
After a relaxing soak at the hot springs, you’ll probably want to swing back by your hotel to freshen up before dinner, and trust us, tonight’s meal is one you’ll remember! The Grizzly House is one of Banff’s most iconic restaurants, located right on lively Banff Avenue, and it’s all about fun, fondue, and a seriously retro vibe.
Originally opened as a disco nightclub in the 1960s (yes, really!), today it’s a cozy, slightly quirky spot that leans into its vintage charm. The menu is packed with classic cheese fondues, sizzling hot rock selections, and even some adventurous options if you’re feeling bold. It’s a popular place, especially in the evenings, so we definitely recommend calling to make a reservation in advance.
Evening – Go Bowling at High Rollers
Today has been pretty laid back, so if you’ve got some energy left after dinner, head to High Rollers for a lively end to the evening. It’s a bowling alley and bar, and we always have such a fun time here!
There are only six lanes, so we suggest booking a lane here ahead of time if you want to bowl! You can secure a lane for 1, 1.5, or 2 hours, and prices start at $60 CAD per hour, with the option to add shoe rental if you need it.
But if not, you can still just stop in for a drink and enjoy the vibes. They’re famous for their pizza slices, too, if you’ve still got some room left after dinner! They often have different food and drink specials for different days of the week, like discount drinks or even half-price bowling, so it’s worth checking out what’s available.
High Rollers stays open until 2 am, although it’s probably wise to head back to your hotel before then since tomorrow’s tour starts at 8 am!
Related Read: Want to explore even more of Banff beyond this itinerary? Check out our guide to the best tours in Banff here for ideas on the top-rated experiences year-round.
Day 2
Morning – Johnston Canyon Icewalk
Kick off your second day in Banff with one of its most iconic winter experiences: the Johnston Canyon Icewalk. This half-day guided tour is the perfect way to see Banff’s frozen beauty up close. Honestly, nothing beats seeing the icy cliffs and frozen waterfalls, not to mention the icicles lining the canyon walls!
Pick-up starts at 8 am from various downtown Banff hotels. You can check to see if yours is on the list, but if not, you can head to a central pickup point. Then, you’ll be dropped back off at around 12:30 pm for a warming lunch.
The drive out is scenic, and your guide will share fascinating stories about Banff’s wildlife and local history along the way. Once you arrive, you’ll gear up with ice cleats and hiking poles (which are all provided for you) before heading onto the steel walkways that wind through the canyon.
The trail is about 5.4 kilometers (3.4 miles) round trip with a moderate incline. It takes you past the lower and upper frozen waterfalls, both of which are absolutely breathtaking when covered in layers of ice! The canyon is always beautiful, but winter truly takes it to another level.
Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and learn how the canyon was shaped over thousands of years. At the end of the hike, you’ll be rewarded with a hot chocolate and, in true Canadian style, a maple cookie before heading back to town.
Read 420+ 5-star reviews and book this epic Icewalk here!
Lunch – Farm & Fire
Once you’re back in town, let’s settle in for a cozy lunch at Farm & Fire, a cozy and inviting restaurant located right on Banff Avenue. This spot is all about comfort food with a thoughtful twist, using local, seasonal ingredients and cooking everything in their signature wood-fired oven.
Whether you’re craving a fresh flatbread, a slow-roasted veggie dish, or something a little heartier, Farm & Fire strikes a nice balance between rustic and refined. After a morning out in the canyons, it’s the kind of place that hits the spot without feeling heavy, just what you need before the final afternoon adventure.
Afternoon – Explore Banff Ave.
After lunch, it’s time to explore Banff Avenue, the lively main street running through the heart of town. It’s lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, making it easy to spend a few relaxed hours browsing, snacking, and soaking up the atmosphere. This is Banff at its most vibrant, especially on a warm summer evening.
Stroll along Bow River
If it isn’t too cold out, walking along the Bow River is an iconic Banff activity. The path to Bow River Falls starts right in town and is an easy 1.5 km (0.9 mi) walk each way, with scenic views and plenty of spots to pause along the riverbank. It’s a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of Downtown Banff and enjoy the mountain views right in town!
Grab dessert
Dessert can happen at any time of the day if you ask me, so head just a couple of minutes down Banff Avenue to BeaverTails. This walk-up spot serves one of Canada’s most beloved treats, a warm, fried pastry that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and topped with everything from cinnamon sugar to Nutella and Reese’s Pieces.
It’s casual, quick, and perfect for grabbing a dessert to enjoy while you continue strolling along Banff’s bustling main street.
Go shopping
Banff Avenue is packed with shops, and whether you decide to grab dessert or not, now’s the perfect time to do a little browsing. You’ll find everything from outdoor clothing stores to souvenir shops, with plenty of fun stops along the way. One place we always recommend checking out is Cool As A Moose—it’s hands-down the best spot in town for unique, quirky souvenirs.
Most stores stay open during the winter months, giving you the chance to shop, wander, and maybe pick up a few mementos from your first day in Banff.
Visit the Banff Candy Store
For a sweet little detour, pop into the Banff Candy Store, just a short walk along Banff Avenue. This colorful shop is packed with Canadian classics, including handmade chocolates, maple sweets, and old-fashioned saltwater taffy. Since you might have already stopped by BeaverTails, this is a fun stop to pick up a few treats for later!
Dinner – Ramen Arashi Banff
Nothing, I repeat nothing, beats a steaming bowl of ramen on a cold winter’s day! So head to Ramen Arashi to warm yourself up with the best ramen in the Rockies. Tonight’s tour starts at 6 pm, and this is a popular spot that doesn’t take reservations, so get here around 4:30–5 pm.
Once you’re seated, service is pretty quick and the menu features rich, flavorful broths and perfectly chewy noodles, with options like spicy miso, black garlic tonkotsu, and vegetarian ramen. This spot is tucked just off of Banff Avenue, and it’s a 6-minute drive or taxi ride to the meeting point from tonight’s tour.
Evening – Sunset and stargazing
If you’re in Banff during winter, you can’t miss the chance to go stargazing in the dark sky preserve! A dark sky preserve is somewhere with minimal light pollution, and during the winter, the cold, crisp air means there’s much less haze, so the conditions are excellent. The longer nights also mean that you might even get the chance to glimpse the aurora borealis, and for many, that’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance!
This sunset and stargazing tour meets at 6 pm at the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, which is just a 6-minute drive from Ramen Arashi, on the other side of the Bow River. During winter, it wraps up around 8 pm, which means you don’t need to stay up super late to enjoy this tour.
Once you’ve geared up with the provided ice cleats and headlamps, you’ll set off along an easy 5-kilometer (3.5-mile) trail. As twilight fades, your guide will point out constellations, share stories about Banff’s history, and explain how this dark-sky preserve protects its incredible stargazing conditions.
The stars really do look incredible with no city lights around, and on the clearest nights, you can even see the Milky Way stretching across the sky. Trust me, this is not an experience you will forget in a hurry!
Book this amazing stargazing tour here and enjoy free cancellation!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Day 3
Full day – Spend the day exploring Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway
We absolutely love exploring Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway, and this full-day guided tour is one of the best ways to do it! Pickup starts at 9 am from Banff, and you’ll return around 6 pm after a full day of stunning scenery.
Lake Louise is breathtaking in any season, but in winter it’s something else entirely. The lake freezes into an astoundingly smooth sheet of ice. Throw in the surrounding mountains, an ice castle and bar, and the Fairmont Chateau in the background, and you’ve got yourself one of the most beautiful wintery landscapes in the world!
From there, your guide will take you along the Icefields Parkway, which is one of the most scenic drives in the world. You’ll stop at incredible viewpoints like Bow Lake, Crowfoot Glacier, and Peyto Lake, each of which will be framed by towering peaks and endless snow. Oh, and keep your camera because it’s not uncommon to spot elk around here!
We love that this tour takes care of all the logistics because there’s no worrying about parking, entrance fees, or icy roads. You can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. It’s a full day of adventure, history, and jaw-dropping beauty that captures exactly what makes Banff so special. There’s a reason it has 800+ 5-star reviews!
Reserve this full-day tour here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Dinner – Banff Ave Brewing
After a full day of exploring lakes, peaks, and parkways, you’ll be more than ready for a relaxed meal back in town, and Banff Ave Brewing is the perfect casual spot to unwind. Located right on Banff Avenue, this laid-back brewpub serves up hearty comfort food, cold craft beers, and classic Canadian poutine that hits the spot after a day outdoors.
The tour usually wraps up between 5 and 6 pm, giving you just enough time to freshen up and grab a table without feeling rushed. Whether you’re in the mood for burgers, fish and chips, or just a sampler flight of local brews, this is a cozy, no-fuss way to end a big day in the Rockies.
Evening – Grab a nightcap at Park Distillery
After dinner, end your night with a drink at Park Distillery. It’s one of our favorite spots on Banff Avenue, partly because they make their own drinks using pure glacier water—how cool is that?
We always make a point of stopping by here whenever we’re in town, and I love their Sawback Cocktail, which is made with chili vodka and pineapple juice. And if you fancy a beer instead, you can’t go wrong with their Summit Amber IPA. They also offer some yummy bar snacks if you’re still peckish after dinner!
But as great as the food and drinks are, we also enjoy coming here because of the atmosphere. It’s fun and welcoming, so it’s a nice spot to end a fantastic three days in Banff. Cheers!
Related Read: Want even more inspiration for your Banff adventure? Don’t miss our full list of the best things to do in Banff in winter here—from cozy hot springs to unforgettable ice walks.
Where to Stay in Banff in Winter
Banff, being the holiday destination it is, has no shortage of beautiful hotels. All over Banff National Park, there are tons of hotels to choose from. In fact, it’s hard to book a bad hotel in Banff. With that said, there are a few stand-out hotels for every budget. You know, those places that offer more for less.
From hotels in Banff town to ones that are a little more out in nature, we’ve put together a list of our favorites that would be our top picks for each budget category:
Please note: Hotel prices in Banff differ from winter to summer. In fact, most hotels are more than double the price in summer.
Fairmont Banff Springs ($$$)
The Fairmont Banff Springs is easily the most luxurious hotel in Banff. As you can expect, it’s not cheap, but the place is simply incredible—it seriously looks like a castle! If you’re visiting Banff on a honeymoon, then this should be the hotel you choose.
Inside the hotel, you’ll find 11 restaurants, 14 shops, a bowling alley, bars, a top-rated spa, a couple of pools, and so much more. With so much to do in this one-of-a-kind luxury hotel, you’ll honestly feel like you’ll never want to leave!
Rooms here at the Fairmont start from around $550 CAD per night in the winter, but can rise further in peak season. For the best deals, it’s best to book as far ahead as possible! You can check prices and room availability online here.
Banff Rocky Mountain Resort ($$)
Pushing up into the mid-range budget, the Banff Rocky Mountain Resort has a beautiful swimming pool, hot tub, and gym, and all the rooms come equipped with kitchenettes or full kitchens. We’d say this is the perfect option for families since two and three-bedroom units are also available.
The hotel is also in a good location that’s just a 5-minute drive away from town, so it’s a great place to enjoy the wonderful peace and quiet of the Banff countryside!
Rooms here average around $500-600 CAD per night in the high season, but dip as low as around $104 CAD in the low season in the winter. You can check availability and book Banff Rocky Mountain Resort online here.
Banff Inn – ($$)
Rooms at the Banff Inn have a very affordable price tag, but are also chock-full of all the amenities you could want to have a great stay! This way, you can splurge on those once-in-a-lifetime tours and experiences that make a trip to Banff so memorable.
The hotel is located right on Banff Ave, and all rooms are air-conditioned. Inside, you’ll find a hot tub, steam room, and sauna, as well as a restaurant and bar – perfect for a little bit of relaxation after a long day out exploring Banff.
Rooms here start at $115 CAD in the winter, but don’t forget to book the Banff Inn well in advance, as this is one of the most popular hotels in Banff!
Samesun Banff Hostel – ($)
For folks looking to save some cash while having a blast in Banff, it’s definitely worth checking out the Samesun Banff Hostel. It’s a great place for backpackers or anyone who’s fine with making some new friends and doesn’t mind sharing a dorm. But if you’re keen on privacy, keep in mind that there aren’t any private rooms available here.
A bed in a dorm here starts from around $40 CAD in the winter, including breakfast, and can be booked online here.
Related Read: If you’re still wondering where to stay, have a look at our detailed guide here. It breaks down all of the best areas and hotels so you can find the perfect one for you!
Parks Canada Pass Quick Info
If you plan on spending time in Canada’s national parks (including Banff, Jasper, Yoho, Mount Revelstoke, Glacier, Kootenay, and more) then you’re going to have to pay for a Parks Pass.
Single Daily Admission:
This type of pass is valid for one person for one day. It is ONLY the best value if you are traveling alone and only plan to visit a national park for a couple of days.
- Adult (ages 18-64) is $11 CAD
- Senior (65+) is $9.50 CAD
- Youth/Child (17 or younger) is FREE
Group Daily Admission:
If you’re traveling in a group or with family, you can buy a single-day admission for your entire vehicle (up to 7 people in one vehicle.)
- $22.00 CAD gets your entire vehicle entry for one full day
Parks Canada Discovery Pass
The “Discovery Pass” is what Parks Canada calls their year-long (365 days from the purchase date), multi-park entry pass. This pass will give 365 days of access to all participating national parks in Canada. This includes the most popular parks like Banff, Jasper, Yoho, Kootenay, Glacier, Mount Revelstoke, and so much more.
- Adult (age 18-64) – $75.25 CAD
- Senior (65+) – $64.50 CAD
- Group/Family (up to 7 people in one vehicle) – $151.25 CAD
Hot Tip: Although more expensive up front, if you plan on spending more than 7 days in different parks in Canada within a 12-month period, then the Discovery Pass is actually the better deal!
Parks Canada Passes can be bought online here or at one of the Visitor Centers or booths at the entrance to many national parks.
Renting a Car in Alberta
If you’re arriving in Alberta via plane then I can’t recommend getting a rental car enough! Canada is a large country and traveling between cities and even just getting out to some of the best places to visit in Alberta requires transport. Although you can use public transport, on some occasions, it means your trip will not only require more time but more planning.
Renting a car will definitely make exploring all of the fun things to see and do in Alberta easier.
Car rental in Canada isn’t super cheap, but it isn’t overly expensive either, especially if you get a budget car. The cheapest car with pickup and drop-off in different locations is around $100 CAD per day. The price does vary though depending on the time of year and the type of car that you rent. For car rentals, I use the website DiscoverCars.com. It’s a search engine with lots of deals with good customer service. In fact, I’ve used them all over the world including in Chile, New Zealand, and Australia. Read our honest review of Discover Cars here for more details!
Check availability and prices on Discover Cars here!
Another popular option is to rent a campervan or motorhome (only for the brave in winter). Using Motorhome Republic you can search hundreds of deals across multiple companies to pick a great vehicle and the cheapest price. Having a motorhome is a stunning way to see Canada, and you can often camp for free or very cheap in the most beautiful places imaginable! Check out my review of Motorhome Republic here for tips before you book.
And if you’re planning to camp but don’t want to splurge on a huge RV, we highly recommend Smile Campervans. Based in Calgary, this local company provides compact campervans fully equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and affordable road trip adventure!
In fact, Smile Campervans has actually given us a special discount code for our readers! Use the code DESTINATIONLESSTRAVEL at checkout to get 5% off your campervan rental! Click here to browse availability, prices, and book with our discount code!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
From mountaintop views to glacier-fed lakes, we hope this 3-day Banff itinerary helps you experience the best of what this incredible place has to offer. It’s a mix of must-see sights and a few personal favorites we keep returning to—no stress, just memorable moments. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Banff always finds a way to surprise you.
If you’re planning to explore more of Canada, we’ve got plenty of other destination guides to help you keep the adventure going—browse all our Canada blogs here, or check out a few of our top picks below. Happy traveling!
5 BEST Banff Tours from Calgary (Which One to Pick!)
How to Spend THREE DAYS in Calgary, Alberta: The Best 3-Day Itinerary