Where to Stay in Calgary, Alberta: 4 Best Areas & Hotels

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Planning a trip to Calgary? You’re in the right place!

As Alberta locals, we’ve spent plenty of time in Calgary over the years, and it’s one of those places that makes you slow down for patio drinks along the Bow River, then immediately start planning your next mountain escape. But choosing where to stay can feel overwhelming—from picking the right neighborhood to deciding how close you want to be to downtown or Banff.

To help you decide which neighborhood is right for you, we’ll walk you through the best areas to stay in Calgary and share our favorite hotel picks for every budget, so you can book with confidence and focus on planning the fun part of your trip. Ready to get started? Let’s go!

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Calgary

Choosing the right area in Calgary makes a big difference, because the city isn’t just “downtown or not.” Some neighborhoods put you steps from restaurants and the river paths, while others make day trips and road-trip logistics even easier.

Calgary is famous as the gateway to the Rockies, so a lot of travelers fly in, grab a rental car, and head straight for Banff (and maybe keep going to Lake Louise, Jasper, or beyond). But Calgary is absolutely worth a few days on its own. There’s great food to try, a lively downtown scene, scenic river walks, and a relaxed, outdoorsy feel that still comes with big-city polish.

If you’re staying in the city, you don’t need a rental car. Downtown is very walkable, the CTrain makes it easy to hop between key areas, and Uber is everywhere when you want a quick, no-hassle ride.

• Downtown Calgary – Best for first-timers – This is the top choice if you want to walk to big sights like the Calgary Tower and Stephen Avenue, with easy CTrain access and tons of restaurants right nearby. Delta Hotels by Marriott is a great home base near the Bow River pathways.

• Beltline – Best for food and nightlife – With a steady lineup of breweries, cocktail bars, cafes, and local shops, this is the best place for late nights, good eats, and a lively local vibe. The Vü is an apartment-style stay that’s handy if you want a little more space and a more “local” setup right in the neighborhood.

• Northeast Calgary – Best for the airport – This area is great for easy airport access and quick road-trip logistics, especially if you’re landing late, leaving early, or grabbing a car and heading straight for the Rockies. The Westin Calgary Airport keeps things simple with an airport shuttle, modern rooms, and an on-site restaurant when you just want to check in and be done.

• East Village – Best for a quiet & modern stay – Stay here for river strolls, nearby museums, and a calmer atmosphere that’s still within walking distance of downtown. Alt Hotel Calgary East Village is a sleek, contemporary option steps from the Bow River trails, and it’s the kind of place that feels easy and fresh the second you walk in.

Where to Stay in Calgary

Downtown Calgary

BEST FOR FIRST TIMERS

Pros

• Walkable sightseeing, dining, and river paths all in one place
• Excellent transit access, including the downtown CTrain free-fare zone

Cons

• Parking can be pricey, and traffic spikes during events
• Some blocks feel office-focused and calm down a lot after work hours

Downtown Calgary is the most convenient home base, especially if it’s your first time in the city. You’re right by major sights like the Calgary Tower and the Stephen Avenue pedestrian strip, so you can fill a day with skyline views, shopping, and restaurant-hopping without constantly checking your map.

What surprises a lot of people is how much green space sneaks into the core. The Bow River pathways are right there for walks and bike rides, and Prince’s Island Park is an easy escape when you want trees, water, and a breather from city blocks.

Getting around is simple too. The CTrain runs through downtown along 7 Avenue, and there’s a free-fare zone for short hops within the core (handy when it’s cold or you’re running late).

Downtown can feel quieter at night in the business-heavy areas, and parking adds up fast if you do have a car. It’s also busier around big events, especially when the Saddledome has something on. Still, if you want the easiest stay with the most “do-it-all” access, downtown is hard to beat!

The Dorian – $$$

The Dorian is a polished downtown hotel with an Oscar Wilde-inspired theme, and it’s the kind of place that feels special without being stuffy. Rooms come with air conditioning, private bathrooms, city views, and the practical extras that matter like strong WiFi, streaming-ready TVs, minibars, and work desks. 

There’s also a restaurant and bar on-site serving American classics with vegetarian options, so you’re covered for an easy breakfast or a low-effort dinner. We especially like the little design touches that nod to the literary theme, because it gives the whole stay a bit more personality!

You’re also a short walk from Devonian Gardens and the Calgary Tower, which makes sightseeing simple. Rooms average around $300–$700 CAD per night, depending on the room type.

Check availability and see which rooms are open for your dates!

If The Dorian is sold out (or you want something a little more straightforward), Courtyard by Marriott is a solid downtown pick with an easy, walk-everywhere location near Stephen Avenue, the CORE shopping area, and multiple CTrain stops. 

Another great choice is The Westley Calgary Downtown, a boutique-leaning Hilton Tapestry property that sits close to Eau Claire and the Peace Bridge, where river walks are basically built into your stay!

Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown – $$

Delta Hotels by Marriott makes exploring downtown Calgary feel easy and fun, especially if you like being close to the action but still want a comfortable place to crash. You’re one block from the Bow River pathways, so a quick morning walk (or sunset stroll) is really easy, and many rooms come with river or skyline views for a little extra wow factor. 

Inside, it’s got all the practical amenities you need, including a mini-fridge, coffeemaker, workspace, plus the hotel has a heated indoor pool for a quick dip when the weather isn’t cooperating. And when you’re hungry, having the Shoe & Canoe Public House right downstairs is an absolute win! 

Most nights, you’ll be looking at spending roughly $250–$500 CAD, depending on the room and season.

Take a peek at availability and snag your spot downtown!

If Delta Hotels isn’t available for your dates, Hotel Le Germain Calgary is a great backup, especially if you want something sleek and polished right by the CORE Shopping Centre for easy downtown walks and quick CTrain hops.

Hyatt Regency Calgary is a strong downtown alternative, and it’s ideal if you like a full-service hotel where everything is under one roof! With an on-site restaurant, pool, and fitness center, it’s an easy, comfortable choice right in the heart of the city.

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Calgary Downtown – $

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham is a practical pick when you want to stay central, keep costs reasonable, and still be close to Calgary’s main sights. You’re near the LRT and the Plus 15 walkway network, which is a lifesaver when the weather turns (hello, winter wind). 

Rooms are on the simpler side but comfortable with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a work desk, and a coffee maker for that first cup before you head out. There’s also a 24-hour fitness room, a seasonal heated outdoor pool, and a rooftop terrace for summer downtime.

Parking is valet-only, and restrictions apply, so it’s easiest if you’re not driving much. Rates usually come in around $150–$350 CAD per night.

Check your dates and see if this downtown deal works for your trip!

Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel is a solid runner-up if Ramada Plaza isn’t available, especially if you want a bit more space, since many rooms are suite-style. It’s also in a convenient downtown location, so you can easily walk to major sights or hop on the CTrain without much hassle.

Another dependable option downtown is Sandman Signature, and it’s a good shout if you like having everything in-house. You’ll typically find an indoor pool and hot tub for a post-sightseeing soak, plus on-site dining options for those nights when you just want to keep things easy.

Related Read: Want to explore beyond city limits? Check out our guide to the best day trips from Calgary for mountains, lakes, and unforgettable views.

Beltline

BEST FOR FOOD & NIGHTLIFE

Pros

• Tons of restaurants, bars, cafes, and breweries within easy walking distance
• Close to downtown sights and transit without feeling overly business-focused

Cons

• Weekend noise is common in the livelier pockets
• Parking can be limited and pricey if you’re driving

If you want Calgary with a little more buzz (and a lot more eating and drinking options), the Beltline is the move. This is where you’ll find craft breweries, cocktail bars, coffee shops, and restaurants packed into a super walkable grid, so you can bounce from dinner to dessert to one more drink without ever needing to call a car. It’s also right next to downtown, which means you can still reach big sights and CTrain stops quickly, but you’re not stuck in the quieter, office-heavy blocks.

The Beltline is especially great for couples, friends, and anyone who wants their evenings to feel effortless. You’re also close to places like 17th Avenue SW for shopping and patios, and it’s an easy stroll to the river pathways when you want a calmer reset between meals.

It’s worth knowing that it can get noisy on weekend nights (especially near the bar-heavy stretches), and parking isn’t always cheap or easy if you’re bringing a car. Still, for food, nightlife, and that walk-out-the-door-and-do-stuff convenience, the Beltline is hard to top.

Residence Inn – $$$

Residence Inn by Marriott is a great pick if you want Beltline energy but also like the idea of having your own kitchen (and a little extra space to spread out). Suites come with full kitchens, sofa beds, and big windows that let the light pour in, and some rooms have mountain views on a clear day. 

It’s also built on the historic Alberta Boot Company site, and we love the subtle Western nods in the design; it feels very Calgary without going full cowboy. You’ve got a fitness center for a quick reset, plus an on-site restaurant for easy meals when you don’t feel like hunting down a reservation. 

Plan for about $300–$600 CAD per night, depending on the suite and season.

See what’s available and snap up a suite while the good ones last!

The Vü – $$

The Vü is our go-to Beltline Airbnb, and we stay here all the time. We’ve even gotten to know the owners, Michael & Regina! The setup is perfect for groups or couples, with two bedrooms (king in the primary, queen in the second) and huge floor-to-ceiling windows that catch sunrise light across the living room. 

The best part? A two-person infrared sauna for post-exploration recovery, plus a 15-foot (4.5-meter) balcony where you can spot the Calgary Tower and, during Stampede, watch fireworks without leaving the couch. You’re steps from popular local restaurants, with underground parking included. Most dates land around $300–$400 CAD per night.

Grab your dates on Airbnb before it gets snapped up!

Fairfield Inn & Suites is a solid extra option in the Beltline if you want something simple, comfortable, and well-located for getting around on foot. It’s especially handy for Stampede Park and the Saddledome, and the included breakfast is a nice little win for quicker (and cheaper) mornings.

Best Western Plus Suites Downtown Calgary – $

Best Western Plus Suites is one of those dependable downtown picks that quietly checks a lot of boxes, especially if you like having a little extra space. Most rooms are suites with a sitting area, plus a kitchenette or full kitchen setup with a microwave and fridge, super handy for quick breakfasts, leftovers, or travel days when you just want something easy. 

You also get a complimentary hot buffet breakfast, an on-site gym, and laundry facilities (great if Stampede dust or road-trip life happens). Location-wise, you’re about a 10-minute walk to 17th Avenue’s shops and restaurants, and you can reach Stampede Park and the Tower without much effort.

Parking is available for a fee, including options with electric plug-ins. You’ll want to budget around $150–$300 CAD per night to stay here.

Check availability and see which rooms are available on Booking.com!

Hotel Arts is a great alternative in the Beltline if you want something a bit more style-forward and fun, with a location that keeps you close to 17th Avenue restaurants and downtown nightlife. It’s known for its modern design and upbeat feel, and it’s a nice pick when you want your hotel to feel like part of the trip, not just where you sleep!

Related Read: Visiting in the warmer months? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Calgary in the summer for festivals, patios, and river adventures.

Northeast Calgary

BEST FOR THE AIRPORT

Pros

• Best area for airport stays, early flights, and quick arrivals
• Easy road access for day trips and onward travel

Cons

• More spread out, so you’ll rely on a car or Uber more often
• Fewer walkable sightseeing and dining options compared to downtown or the Beltline

Northeast Calgary is the easy-choice neighborhood if convenience is your top priority. This is where you’ll find the airport, loads of dependable hotels, and quick access to major roads, which makes it perfect for late arrivals, early flights, or anyone using Calgary as a launch point for a Rockies road trip. If your plan is to land, sleep, grab your rental car, and hit the highway toward Canmore and Banff, staying in the northeast can save you a surprising amount of time (and stress).

It’s also a practical fit for families and travelers who like straightforward logistics. Hotels here tend to offer the stuff that makes life simpler, like parking, bigger rooms, and grab-and-go breakfasts. Getting into downtown is doable by car and transit, but it’s not the neighborhood to pick if you want to walk out the door and be surrounded by restaurants and nightlife.

On the other hand, the area can feel more spread out, and you’ll likely be relying on a car or rideshare to get around. Still, for airport convenience and an easy start to your trip, Northeast Calgary absolutely delivers.

Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel – $$$

Calgary Airport Marriott is the ultimate no-stress pick if you want to roll out of bed and be at your gate in minutes, because it’s literally inside YYC’s terminal. Rooms are quiet and well soundproofed (yes, even with planes outside), with mini-fridges, big TVs, and comfy seating for decompressing after a long travel day. 

When you’re hungry, Yakima Social Kitchen + Bar is right there with a locally inspired menu and craft cocktails, so dinner doesn’t turn into a logistics puzzle. You’ve also got an indoor pool and a full gym, plus OraOxygen Spa for massages and treatments when you want to feel human again.

It’s worth knowing that valet parking is the main setup here, and it can add up if you’re staying several nights. Staying here costs around $350+ CAD per night for most dates.

Book it on Booking.com if you want the easiest airport stay Calgary offers!

If Calgary Airport Marriott is all booked up, Delta Hotels Calgary Airport In-Terminal is a super convenient alternative if you want the same roll-out-of-bed airport access, with comfortable rooms and solid soundproofing for an actually good night’s sleep. It’s an easy win for early flights, late arrivals, or quick turnaround trips where location matters more than anything else.

The Westin Calgary Airport – $$ 

The Westin Calgary Airport is a polished, comfy choice when you want airport convenience without sacrificing the little luxuries. Rooms are bright and quiet with great soundproofing, plus the signature Heavenly Bed, a proper workspace, and coffee/tea setup for early starts. Between the indoor pool and hot tub, a solid fitness center, and the free airport shuttle, it’s an easy win for late arrivals or early departures. 

For food, Botanicus (the on-site restaurant) is a handy perk, with a full menu and options for different diets when you don’t feel like venturing out. Good to know: you’re not in a walk-everywhere neighborhood, so plan on rideshares for downtown. We recommend budgeting around $250–$400 CAD per night for most stays.

If stress-free travel is the goal, reserve this stay here while dates are open!

Staybridge Suites is a great alternative if you want an airport-area stay with more of a home base feel, thanks to suite-style rooms and kitchen setups that make longer trips way easier. It’s especially handy for families or road-trippers who want breakfast included and a little extra space to spread out.

Another solid pick is Residence Inn by Marriott, with suites that typically come with kitchens and separate living spaces, so you’re not living out of a suitcase. It’s a convenient option when you want airport access plus the flexibility to do simple meals and quick resets between plans.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Calgary-Northeast – $

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson is a cozy, great-value option when you want an easy stay with the essentials handled (and a few nice extras). Rooms come with a fridge and microwave for quick meals, plus a work desk and coffee maker for early starts. You’ve also got an indoor pool and hot tub for a low-key unwind, and the on-site library area gives it a quieter, more relaxed feel than a standard roadside hotel. 

Breakfast is included, Wi-Fi is free, and the front desk is open 24/7, which is handy if your arrival time is unpredictable. The Calgary Zoo is about a 10-minute drive, and downtown is roughly 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) away. Most nights, prices here fall in the $100–$250 CAD range.

Take a look at availability and snag a deal while it’s still open!

If you want a straightforward airport-area stay with easy road access and the basics done well, Park Inn by Radisson is a convenient extra option in the northeast. It works especially well for quick overnights, early flights, or a simple stop before you hit the highway.

For travelers who like a predictable, no-fuss setup with breakfast included, Hampton Inn is another reliable pick nearby. It’s a comfortable choice for families and road-trippers who want to keep everything efficient and hassle-free.

Related Read: Planning to drive straight to Banff? Check out our roundup of the best Banff tours from Calgary to make the most of your time in the Rockies.

East Village

BEST FOR A QUIET & MODERN STAY

Pros

• River pathways and parks right nearby for easy walks and bike rides
• Close to downtown sights, with a more relaxed feel than the core

Cons

• Quieter evenings than the Beltline, especially midweek
• Some streets still feel in-progress with occasional construction activity

East Village is one of Calgary’s newer, more polished downtown-edge areas, and it’s a great choice if you want to stay close to downtown without being planted right in the busiest blocks. It sits along the Bow River, so you’re never far from waterfront walking and cycling paths, plus parks and open space that make the area feel light and easy. 

You’re also right by some of the city’s best cultural stops, including Studio Bell (National Music Centre), and it’s an easy stroll into the downtown core when you want big attractions, shopping, or a busy dinner scene.

This area suits couples, solo travelers, and anyone who likes a modern, relaxed base with a little breathing room. We also love how simple it is to mix city exploring with river time here.

That said, East Village can feel quieter at night compared with the Beltline, and depending on the block, ongoing development can mean a bit of construction noise during the day. Still, if you want a clean, central stay with river access and a more contemporary feel, East Village is a really smart pick.

Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Downtown – $$$

Steps from Studio Bell in East Village, Hilton Garden Inn is a really convenient base if you want to stay close to downtown sights without being right in the office-heavy core.

You’ve got the practical stuff covered with air-conditioned rooms, strong WiFi, and a 24-hour front desk, plus a gym on-site for a quick reset. When you’re not out exploring, it’s nice having an indoor pool for a low-key dip (especially in colder months).

There is also on-site paid parking, which is handy if you’re planning on driving during your stay. Rates typically sit around $250–$500 CAD per night, depending on the room and season.

Check your dates and grab a room before the best ones book up!

Alt Hotel Calgary East Village – $$

Sleek, modern, and right in the heart of East Village, Alt Hotel is a great pick if you want a stylish base close to downtown without being in the busiest part of the core. Rooms are streamlined and comfortable with strong WiFi, air conditioning, and a proper work desk. 

One thing we like here is how effortlessly you can keep everything in one place, with on-site dining options that cover multiple moods, including NUPO for Japanese bites and CHIX Eggshop for a quick breakfast.

Good to know: it’s pet-friendly, and there’s typically a per-stay pet cleaning fee. Most nights, rates sit around $150–$250 CAD, depending on the room and season.

Check availability and lock in your dates while the best rooms are still open!

Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Downtown – $

If you like having a little more room to spread out (and the option to eat in), Homewood Suites by Hilton is a super practical East Village base. Most suites come with a full in-suite kitchen, plus a living area setup that’s great for longer stays, families, or anyone who doesn’t want to live out of a mini fridge. 

Mornings are easy with a complimentary hot breakfast, and Hilton also offers a free grocery-shopping service, which is a surprisingly nice perk for road-trippers. You’ve got an indoor pool and a fitness center on-site, and Stampede Park is close enough that getting there doesn’t feel like a trek. We recommend budgeting around $100–$250 CAD per night to stay here.

Check your dates and grab a suite here on Booking.com!

Related Read: Once you’ve locked in your stay, don’t miss our full roundup of the best things to do in Calgary, packed with tours, local favorites, and can’t-miss experiences.

Top Activities to do in Calgary

Now that you’ve picked your favorite neighborhood and hotel, it’s time to plan the fun part! Calgary has way more going on than most people expect—from river pathways and buzzing neighborhoods to epic mountain day trips. Whether you’re staying in the city or heading into the Rockies, you won’t be bored here. Here are our favorite tours and experiences to add to your itinerary.

• See Calgary by bike – You’ll love getting to know the city on this small-group bike tour! Cruising along the Bow River with our guide Darrell, you’ll explore everything from the Peace Bridge to Prince’s Island Park while hearing stories about First Nations history, local legends, and Calgary’s modern energy. It’s an easy, fun way to cover a lot of ground!

• Take a Banff day trip – Want to see Lake Louise and Moraine Lake without dealing with parking chaos? This small-group tour makes it effortless. From turquoise lakes to Bow Falls and the Banff Springs Hotel, it hits all the highlights while your guide handles the driving and logistics. If you’d like to compare a few options first, check out our guide to the best Lake Louise tours from Calgary here.

• Explore the Icefields Parkway – Driving this route yourself can be stressful, so you’ll be glad you booked this guided tour. Seeing Peyto Lake and Crowfoot Glacier is incredible, but stepping onto the Athabasca Glacier in a massive Ice Explorer is the real showstopper. For more options, check out our full guide to the best Icefields Parkway tours here.

• Zip around on a scooter – Short on time? This small-group scooter tour lets you see major sights like Stephen Avenue, the Central Library, and the Bow River pathways without wearing yourself out. It’s relaxed, easy to handle, and surprisingly fun.

• Float the Bow River – For something totally different, this private rafting experience is such a chill way to spend an afternoon. You’ll drift past parks and skyline views at an easy pace, spotting wildlife along the way. Calm, scenic, and effortlessly relaxing, this is the kind of summer afternoon you’ll want to repeat every year.

Related Read: Want a full day-by-day plan? Don’t miss our 3 Days in Calgary itinerary, where we map out exactly how to spend a long weekend in the city

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!

Thanks for reading!

Calgary is such a fun, easy city to base yourself in. Whether you’re here for the food scene, river walks, or using it as your launchpad into the Rockies, the rest of your trip falls into place. One thing we’ve learned as Alberta locals is that Calgary rewards planners. The best hotels (especially in summer and during Stampede) book up months in advance, so don’t wait too long to secure your stay if you’ve got specific dates in mind.

If you’re building out the rest of your trip, be sure to check out our other Alberta guides here—we’ve put together detailed itineraries, day trip ideas, and local tips to help you make the most of your time here. Or get started with a few of our favorites below!

How to Get From Calgary to Drumheller + Best Stops

4 BEST Calgary to Lake Louise Shuttles

3 BEST Calgary to Canmore Shuttles