Calgary, the cultural and commercial hub of Alberta, blends the vibrancy of a modern metropolis with the awe-inspiring beauty of the nearby Rocky Mountains. The city offers a wide range of lodging experiences—from luxurious downtown hotels to nature-embraced mountain resorts—allowing you to strike the perfect balance between urban life and the great outdoors. Whether you’re here for business, leisure, or simple relaxation, Calgary promises an unforgettable stay. Let me take you through some of the city’s most iconic accommodations to help you find the perfect place to call home during your visit.
1: Luxury Hotels in the Heart of the City
1.1 The Westin Calgary
The Westin Calgary is located in a prime downtown area, offering a modern and comfortable luxury experience. Ideal for both business travelers and vacationers, the hotel sits in Calgary’s main commercial district, within walking distance of landmarks such as the Calgary Tower, the CORE Shopping Centre, and the lively Stephen Avenue pedestrian mall lined with shops, cafés, and cultural venues. Its central location makes it a perfect base for exploring both the urban landscape and nearby nature trails along the Bow River.
Facilities:
The Westin offers a wide array of amenities to meet all guest needs. You’ll find a fully equipped gym, an indoor pool, and a hot tub to help you unwind after a busy day. The hotel restaurant serves authentic Canadian cuisine along with international options, making it an ideal destination for culinary exploration.
Activities:
The Westin frequently hosts rotating art exhibitions and cultural events in its lobby and public areas, often showcasing local artists and musicians. Nearby cultural venues such as the Calgary Cultural Center, the Glenbow Museum, and local art galleries offer rich programming—from classical music concerts to contemporary art exhibitions—for those interested in the city’s creative side. For fitness lovers, the hotel also offers guided morning runs along the river.
Transportation:
Located close to major public transit lines, with train and bus stops within walking distance, the hotel is only a 20-minute drive from Calgary International Airport—perfect for business and long-distance travelers alike.
1.2 Four Seasons Hotel Calgary
If you’re seeking unrivaled luxury, the Four Seasons Hotel Calgary is your go-to option. This five-star hotel sits in the heart of the city, surrounded by upscale shopping streets, high-end restaurants, and key commercial buildings. Its sleek glass façade and sophisticated interior design embody modern elegance, while personalized service ensures an unforgettable guest experience. Whether you’re attending a business summit or enjoying a romantic getaway, the hotel caters to all levels of comfort and indulgence.
Facilities:
Renowned for its refined amenities, the hotel offers spacious and lavishly decorated rooms equipped with smart control systems and high-speed Wi-Fi. On-site features include a world-class spa, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. A private lounge is also available for high-end business events and receptions.
Activities:
Be sure to visit the hotel’s renowned restaurant, where seasonal tasting menus and locally sourced ingredients are the stars. The “Proof” bar is a local hotspot, celebrated for its handcrafted cocktails, curated wine list, and refined ambiance—perfect for evening relaxation or informal meetings. The spa offers not only massages and skincare services but also yoga sessions, aromatherapy, and detox treatments to help you reset after long travel days.
Nearby Attractions:
Just outside is Stephen Avenue, a paradise for shoppers with boutiques ranging from global brands to local designer shops. For food lovers, the surrounding restaurants offer a diverse culinary landscape sure to delight.
1.3 The Fairmont Palliser
A Calgary classic, The Fairmont Palliser has stood for over a century and remains one of the city’s most prestigious hotels. Its grand exterior and opulent interior reflect early 20th-century architecture, offering a refined yet welcoming ambiance. As a designated heritage site, the hotel is a living piece of Calgary’s history, often chosen by dignitaries and celebrities for its prestige and service excellence. Its central location makes it a favorite for travelers who want a luxurious experience intertwined with local culture.
Facilities:
The Fairmont offers a classic luxury stay, featuring a gym, pool, and conference facilities. The in-house “320 8th” steakhouse is highly acclaimed, known for its fresh local ingredients and exquisite wine selection—a must-try while in Calgary.
Activities:
The hotel regularly hosts elegant afternoon tea sessions in the lobby lounge, complete with fine china, fresh pastries, and live piano music. Evening cocktail hours often take place in the intimate bar area, where locals and guests mingle over vintage drinks and small bites. The hotel also partners with local cultural organizations to offer discounted tickets and curated art tours, allowing guests to immerse themselves in Calgary’s rich heritage and creative community.
Surroundings:
Located centrally, the hotel provides easy access to shopping centers and eateries on foot. Adjacent green spaces allow you to unwind while soaking in the scenic urban landscape.
2: Mountain Retreats Near Calgary
2.1 Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
For a truly unforgettable mountain escape, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel stands as an iconic symbol of luxury nestled in the heart of Banff National Park. Often referred to as the “Castle in the Rockies,” this historic hotel is not only a destination in itself but also a gateway to some of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Canada. Surrounded by towering peaks, evergreen forests, and crystal-clear rivers, the hotel offers a unique blend of old-world charm and natural beauty that captures the spirit of the Canadian Rockies.
Facilities:
Featuring elegant European-style architecture, the hotel offers luxurious rooms with modern comforts. Multiple in-house restaurants and bars provide an array of dining experiences. “Waldhaus Restaurant,” which serves traditional German cuisine, is nestled in the hotel’s garden and offers stunning views.
Activities:
Thanks to its privileged location, the hotel is a year-round playground for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. In the winter, guests can enjoy world-class skiing at nearby resorts, snowshoeing on forest trails, or simply relaxing by the fire after a day in the snow. During the warmer months, hiking and mountain biking routes begin practically at the hotel’s doorstep. For those seeking relaxation, the hotel’s renowned Willow Stream Spa offers soothing treatments inspired by the natural surroundings. Golfers can also tee off at the stunning 27-hole Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course, with mountain views on every hole.
Nearby Attractions:
The hotel sits within easy reach of iconic landmarks such as Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Sulphur Mountain Gondola. Guests can embark on scenic drives, wildlife safaris, or even take part in guided stargazing tours under the clear alpine sky. The hotel also offers curated excursions, making it easy to explore the UNESCO-listed Banff National Park in a more personalized and enriching way. Whether you’re after serenity or adventure, the Fairmont Banff Springs is a perfect blend of both.
2.2 Columbia Icefield Glacier View Lodge
If you’ve ever dreamed of immersing yourself in a world of ice and wonder, the Columbia Icefield Glacier View Lodge delivers an unmatched arctic-like experience right in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Athabasca Glacier, this remote yet welcoming lodge offers a front-row seat to one of the most dramatic landscapes in North America. Ideal for travelers seeking an immersive and contemplative retreat, the lodge places you closer than ever to the raw power of nature.
Facilities:
Though modest compared to urban hotels, the lodge offers comfortable rooms with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and icefields. The restaurants here serve regional specialties, especially fresh seafood and local meats from the area.
Activities:
The Glacier View Lodge is the launch point for some of Canada’s most unforgettable alpine adventures. The Ice Explorer Tour takes visitors aboard a custom-designed all-terrain vehicle across the surface of the Athabasca Glacier — a thrilling ride over ancient ice. For a more intimate encounter, opt for a guided glacier walk where certified guides lead you safely across icy terrain, explaining how the glaciers were formed and how they’re changing over time. Come evening, the lodge also offers exclusive stargazing experiences, where the minimal light pollution allows the night sky to come alive with constellations, planets, and the occasional aurora borealis.
Nearby Attractions:
Positioned along the famous Icefields Parkway, the lodge is surrounded by a landscape of towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and sweeping valleys. Just a short drive away are Sunwapta Falls, Peyto Lake, and the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform that juts out over a 280-meter drop. These nearby sights offer countless photo opportunities and hiking options. Whether you are drawn by curiosity, scientific interest, or a desire for solitude, the Columbia Icefield Glacier View Lodge provides a rare chance to witness nature’s grandeur up close.
Hotel Booking Platforms
Calgary offers a wide variety of accommodations, easily accessible through major booking platforms such as Agoda, Booking.com, and Expedia.
Whether you’re enjoying the sleek luxury of downtown Calgary or soaking in the tranquil beauty of Banff’s mountain lodges, the city offers something unique for every kind of traveler. From five-star hotels to alpine resorts, each stay is designed to cater to your preferences and create lasting memories. Let Calgary become not just a stop on your journey, but a destination that offers you a truly extraordinary place to stay.
