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Where to Stay in Calgary

Where to Stay in Calgary

Calgary Alberta, Canada Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Common Lodging Options

  • Hostels

    Budget-friendly, offering dormitory beds and private rooms. Communal kitchens and social spaces are common. Hostelworld for options.

  • Motels

    Often along major roads, basic rooms with essential amenities. Free parking is typical, suitable for travelers with vehicles.

  • Budget Hotels

    Clean, functional rooms, frequently part of national or international chains (e.g., Super 8). Consistent quality and core services.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    Broader amenities, including on-site restaurants, fitness centers, and sometimes pools. Brands like Delta Hotels and Sandman Hotel. IHG Hotels for a range of options.

Specialized Stays

  • Luxury Hotels

    Premium services, sophisticated dining, extensive amenities (spas, concierge). Examples: Fairmont Palliser, Hyatt Regency.

  • Boutique Hotels

    Smaller, stylish hotels with unique design, character, and personalized service, like Hotel Arts.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, VRBO are widely used, offering apartments and houses suitable for longer stays or groups. TrustedHousesitters is an alternative.

  • Camping

    Campgrounds on the outskirts of Calgary (Fish Creek Provincial Park) and nearby provincial/national parks (Kananaskis, Banff National Park).

Neighborhood Guide

Choosing a suitable neighborhood in Calgary influences your experience. Each area is a distinct character, proximity to attractions, and transportation access.

Downtown

Benefits
  • Central location
  • Excellent C-Train access (free fare zone)
  • Proximity to major attractions
Considerations
  • Accommodation can be expensive
  • Some areas quieter after business hours

Beltline

Benefits
  • Lively nightlife and dining
  • Good walkability
  • Diverse accommodation options
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, notably on weekends
  • Parking can be difficult

Airport Area

Benefits
  • Convenience for flights
  • Often offers good value
  • Many hotels have shuttle services
Considerations
  • Far from downtown attractions
  • Transportation needed for sightseeing

Safety and Proximity Notes

Safety Considerations

Calgary is generally safe across all listed neighborhoods. Standard urban precautions are advisable, especially when out at night. Be aware of surroundings on quieter streets.

Proximity & Transit

Downtown, Beltline, East Village, and Kensington are close to major attractions and public transit (C-Train). Airport hotels require external transportation for city exploration.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies secure good accommodation at favorable rates, especially during peak travel times.

Advance Booking by Season

  • High Season (June-Aug): Book several months ahead. For Calgary Stampede (early July), secure lodging at least six months prior.
  • Shoulder Seasons (Apr-May & Sep-Oct): Booking 1-2 months in advance typically yields better selection and competitive prices.
  • Low Season (Nov-Mar): More flexibility. Booking a few weeks prior or finding last-minute deals is possible, but holiday periods still warrant advance booking.
  • Consider mid-week stays for potentially lower prices at business-oriented hotels.

Booking Platforms & Policies

  • International Platforms: Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, TripAdvisor, Agoda.
  • Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and VRBO are popular.
  • Direct Booking: Hotel websites may offer loyalty points or exclusive packages.
  • Deposit/Cancellation: Review policies carefully; non-refundable rates are usually cheaper but without flexibility.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

High Prices
  • Summer (June-August), especially during Calgary Stampede.
  • Weekend stays typically cost more than mid-week.
Lower Prices
  • Winter (November-March), excluding major holidays like Christmas.
  • Mid-week stays.

Important Advice

Reviews

Always check recent reviews before booking to ensure expectations for convenience and comfort are met.

Location

Verify the exact location of your accommodation relative to your planned activities.

Walk-in Rates

Negotiating walk-in rates is generally not common for hotels in Calgary; prices are typically fixed.

Accommodation Recommendations Comparison Table

This table outlines recommendations for various travel preferences and budgets, featuring common Calgary properties or types.

Budget & Mid-Range

Budget Options

Typical Price Range: $40 - $120 CAD/night (Dorm to basic private room)

  • HI Calgary City Centre Hostel: Central, social, communal kitchen.
  • Super 8 by Wyndham Calgary/Airport: Basic, clean rooms, often with free parking/breakfast.
  • Motel Village Area: Cluster of budget motels north of downtown.
Mid-Range Options

Typical Price Range: $120 - $250 CAD/night

  • Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown: Reliable chain, central, amenities.
  • Hotel Arts: Stylish boutique, art-focused, seasonal outdoor pool.
  • Hotel Le Germain Calgary: Modern, sleek design, prime downtown spot.
  • 1-bedroom Airbnb in Beltline/Kensington: More space, kitchen, local living.

Luxury & Family-Friendly

Luxury Options

Typical Price Range: $250 - $600+ CAD/night

  • Fairmont Palliser: Historic, elegant, full-service amenities.
  • Hyatt Regency Calgary: Modern, convention-focused, extensive facilities.
  • The Dorian, Autograph Collection: Newer, sophisticated, high-end service.
Family-Friendly Options

Typical Price Range: $150 - $400 CAD/night

  • Residence Inn by Marriott Calgary Downtown/Beltline District: All-suite, kitchenettes, breakfast, pools.
  • Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Downtown: All-suite, kitchenettes, breakfast, pools.
  • Many Airbnb listings: Multi-bedroom, private homes, often with backyards.

Long-Stay Accommodation

  • Residence Inn by Marriott properties

    Designed for extended stays with kitchenettes, living areas, and sometimes laundry facilities.

  • Homewood Suites by Hilton properties

    Another all-suite option with similar amenities for longer visits.

  • Extended Stay America

    Properties tailored for longer visits, providing amenities to feel at home.

  • Airbnb (monthly rates)

    Offers furnished apartments or houses with weekly or monthly discounts, suited for a home-away-from-home experience.

Neighborhood Spotlight: East Village

  • Character

    Modern, artistic, and community-focused. A mix of new residential developments, cultural venues, and green spaces.

  • Pros

    Access to modern cultural attractions (Studio Bell, Central Library), beautiful river pathways, and growing shops/restaurants. A refreshed urban experience.

  • Cons

    Still developing in parts, some areas may feel less established or have ongoing construction.

  • Noteworthy Features

    Studio Bell, Central Library, St. Patrick's Island. Located along the Bow River.

Neighborhood Spotlight: Kensington & Inglewood

Kensington

Bohemian and village-like, with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. A relaxed, community feel and an unique local vibe.

  • Distinct character, independent dining and shopping.
  • Good walkability, easy access to downtown via walk or C-Train.
  • Limited larger hotel options.
  • Accommodation can be pricey.
Inglewood

Calgary's oldest neighborhood. Historic, eclectic, and artistic. Known for antique shops, art galleries, live music venues, and craft breweries.

  • Unique character, independent businesses, rich history.
  • Close to Calgary Zoo and Pearce Estate Park.
  • Less direct C-Train access (mainly bus access).
  • Can be quieter in the evenings.

Image: Fairmont Palliser Hotel

Classic Luxury

The Fairmont Palliser is a historic landmark in downtown Calgary, recognized for its elegant interiors and classic luxury experience.

Full Amenities

This hotel features a spa, pool, and fine dining options, providing comprehensive services for guests.

Central Location

Its prime central downtown location offers convenient access to city attractions and business districts.