A view across the Saddledome arena in Calgary towards Calgary tower and skyscrapers with blue sky and fluffy white clouds behind.
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2-day Calgary Itinerary: How to Spend the Perfect 2 Days in Calgary

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Are you visiting Calgary and curious about the best way to spend two perfect days? Most people just pass through Calgary as a gateway to the Canadian Rockies, but it is full of exciting things to do and see, easily filling two perfect days. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or relaxing getaways, there’s something for everyone in this bustling urban hub.

In this post, we will share the perfect 2-day itinerary for Calgary. Spending two days in Calgary is a great way to start a big Canadian road trip or Albertan adventure, so we’ve got you covered with extras including day trip ideas for Calgary, and lots of travel tips!

Our very first trip to Calgary was in the summer of 2011, and once we moved to Alberta, we visited a few times every year. We love the restaurants and downtown area so much.

But there is so much more… from the world-class ski runs at Canada Olympic Park to the fascinating Heritage Park Historical Village, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy during your visit. Plus, with its delicious cuisine and lively nightlife scene, the possibilities are endless in Calgary. 

Four portrait photos in a grid showing the Calgary tower, Calgary buildings next to a river with fall foliage, a bridge over a river at night and an interior roof-window in a wooden building. In between the top and bottom images text reads "How to spend the perfect 2 days in Calgary, Alberta."

Calgary is a vibrant Canadian city. People come here to find a city that’s bustling with activities, opportunities, and life. It is a misunderstood Canadian gem.

Most come to Calgary for work or to travel to the Canadian Rockies via Edmonton, but I have found it to be the perfect destination for a vacation with its exciting nightlife, diverse food scene, breathtaking nature, bustling urban environment, and beautiful moonlit nights.

Quick Look: 2-Day Calgary Itinerary

Day 1 in Calgary. Our top recommended activities in Calgary for your first day in the city are: 

  • Fort Calgary/The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland
  • Calgary Downtown
  • Calgary Tower
  • Stephen Avenue Walk
  • Eau Claire Park
  • Calgary River Walk
  • Peace Bridge
  • Kensington neighborhood 

Day 2 in Calgary: 

  • Heritage Park Historical Village
  • Olympic Park
  • Food tour
  • Scotsman’s Hill

Keep reading for your ultimate guide for two perfect days in Calgary.

The Perfect First Day in Calgary

We recommend arriving in Calgary at least the night before, so you have a full first day in Calgary. That way you will be ready to kickstart your Calgary itinerary in the East Village neighborhood first thing in the morning. 

Grab some coffee and baked goodies from Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters, or Sidewalk Citizen Bakery (both located at the Simmons Building), and then go sightseeing!

Visit The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland

The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland is the birthplace of the city of Calgary, although it was an important location even before the city was established. It is the site where the North West Mounted Police first built a fort at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow Rivers. 

The purpose of the fort was to provide law and order in Western Canada, but it also became a hub for trade, commerce, culture, and exploration.

In 2024, the site was officially renamed from Fort Calgary to The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland to properly encompass all the history of the area, including Indigenous history.

Two white wooden buildings with red trim sitting on a field with a clear blue sky behind.

This site is a great visit if you wish to know more about Calgary’s past. You can see a replica of the 1888 fort and learn more about its history, along with permanent exhibitions on Indigenous culture. There are several buildings on the grounds, including the fort, a museum, a Métis cabin, a gift shop, and craft workshops.

For those who wish to explore further, The Confluence site offers a variety of guided tours. These range from historical walking tours to self-guided audio tours, allowing visitors to learn more about this amazing site.

The Confluence is a great place to visit if you’re looking for an educational and fun day out. You can easily spend 2-3 hours here.

A long log building on grass with blue sky behind.

Studio Bell National Music Centre

Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre in Calgary, is one of the city’s premier cultural attractions. Located in East Village, this five-storey building celebrates music and its history with a variety of interactive exhibits and collections. 

Here’s what you can expect when visiting Studio Bell: The first thing you’ll notice is the stunning building itself. Designed by Canadian architect Brad Cloepfil, the structure is both modern and eye-catching. 

Inside, the five floors are filled with interactive exhibits that let visitors explore music from around the world. =

The Studio Bell Music Gallery is a must-see, featuring instruments from different eras and cultures. This collection includes everything from guitars to wind instruments to drums and more, giving visitors the chance to experience music from around the world. 

You can also learn more about some of Canada’s greatest musicians and their accomplishments (through exhibitions and guided tours such as the Behind-the-Glass guided tour or a Backstage Pass guided tour). 

  • Website: Studio Bell
  • Address: 850 4 St. SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0L8
  • Price: $24.50 CAD per adult

Downtown Calgary Attractions

Next up, make sure you spend some time in the vibrant downtown Calgary, which has lots to offer. Downtown Calgary has tall buildings, shopping, amazing restaurants, cafes, and most importantly, nature and parks within the core area.

When visiting downtown Calgary, there are plenty of things to see and do. From parks and museums to shopping and entertainment, this bustling metropolis has something for everyone. 

Some spots are drive-by options, and some we recommend spending more time to explore. Here’s a look at some of the highlights in the downtown area:

The Glenbow Museum is a great place to start your visit. This museum features an impressive collection of cultural and historical artifacts from around the world. Plus, there are also interactive exhibits that allow visitors to gain a deeper insight into the history of Calgary.

For those looking for outdoor activities, Eau Claire Market Park is a great option. Located near the Bow River in downtown Calgary, this park features several walking trails and plenty of green space for picnics and games.

A park covered in snow with tall buildings behind and moody clouds above.

Shoppers will find plenty to love in downtown Calgary as well. The CORE Shopping Mall is one of the city’s popular shopping malls with a beautiful Devonian Garden and a food court. 

An indoor garden with lots of greenery, clean paths and some tables and chairs in the distance.

If you prefer a walking tour, here is a 2-hour introductory tour of downtown Calgary. Click to check it out here.

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Calgary Tower

One of the primary landmarks in downtown Calgary is the Calgary Tower, and we highly recommend spending a few hours here (including lunch, if you like).

The iconic Calgary Tower is one of the city’s must-see attractions. This 190.8-meter-tall structure offers amazing views of the city skyline from its observation deck, making it a great spot for taking pictures or watching sunsets.

There is an entry fee to visit the observation tower that also has a glass floor! The ground floor has a souvenir store and informative exhibits – this part of the Calgary Tower is free to enter and explore. 

View from the base of a very tall tower with a completely blue sky behind.
A view from Calgary Tower looking down over buildings and parks covered in snow.

The glass floor is a fun addition and is perfect to see the city from above. We also planned a pre-Christmas dinner date at the Calgary Tower, and loved the experience. 

When you reserve a table at Sky 360 at the Calgary Tower, you can access the tower top for free, enjoy your meal, and soak in those amazing views! 

A meal for two will be around $100 CAD (two entrees and drinks). 

  • Website: Calgary Tower
  • Address: 101 9 Ave SW, Calgary, AB
  • Price: $26.50 – $51.50 CAD per adult

We rate the Calgary Tower a must-visit because of the amazing views of the city of Calgary.

A few tours include admission to the Calgary Tower.

A tall tower lit up with red next to just as tall and taller buildings, one of which is flying a Canadian flag.

Stephen Avenue Walk

Whenever we visit Calgary, we look forward to taking a stroll on Stephen Avenue Walk. Every time we have visited, there are tons of activities going on in this street – we love the vibe and energy!

This pedestrian street is located in the heart of the city’s downtown core, and it’s packed with shopping, dining, and entertainment options. 

Here’s what you can expect when visiting this popular destination:

The first thing you will notice is the array of unique boutiques and stores. From clothing and jewelry to books, art, music, and more, there’s something for everyone in Stephen Avenue Walk. Plus, most of the businesses are independently owned and operated, giving shoppers a chance to support local entrepreneurs.

The street is also lined with restaurants offering up dishes from all over the world. Whether you’re craving Italian, Mexican, Indian, or something else entirely, you’ll be sure to find what you’re looking for in Stephen Avenue Walk.

As you stroll along, you can see little bits of history and historical facts jotted on different pillars. 

Throughout the year, Stephen Avenue Walk also hosts a variety of special events and festivals. From art shows to farmers’ markets and outdoor movies, this vibrant street is always buzzing with activity. 

  • Price: Free
A large, white head sculpture made from wire, towered over by a glass building.
Market stalls on a pedestrian walking zone with tall buildings behind.

Calgary RiverWalk | Peace Bridge (evening)

From the East Village neighborhood, make your way to Calgary’s RiverWalk. This scenic route takes you along the Bow River, offering breathtaking views of downtown Calgary and some of its most iconic landmarks. 

East Village is very pedestrian-friendly, and the RiverWalk is also good for cycling. 

The RiverWalk path is also very well-maintained, making it ideal for a stroll. As you walk, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery and the flowing waters of the Bow River. You can expect to see plenty of wildlife such as ducks, geese, and other birds along your journey too.

Along the way, you’ll come across several food trucks in the summer.

As you walk along the path, plan to get to the Peace Bridge, a stunning reddish-orange pedestrian bridge that spans across the Bow River. This will bring you to the neighborhood of Kensington, where you will have dinner! 

Kensington is a great location for grabbing coffee or taking a walk by the river since it provides quick access to both the Peace Bridge and Prince’s Island Park.

Calgary river around sunset, with the red Peace Bridge leading towards city buildings lit up in gold.

Kensington Neighbourhood (for dinner)

Finally, no trip to downtown Calgary would be complete without visiting one of the many restaurants and bars located in the area. 

Located north of the Bow River and known for being one of the most pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods in Calgary, Kensington is home to historic buildings, local shops, and delicious eateries!

This is the perfect spot for dinner and drinks after a busy day of sightseeing! 

We recommend:

  • Kensington Pub for a casual eat
  • Vero Bistro Moderne for something upscale
  • Tu Taco for delicious Mexican in a cool and colorful location
A wide street with traffic lights and snow mounded on the sidewalks.

The Perfect Second Day in Calgary

Kickstart your second day in Calgary with breakfast in a nice cafe. If you are staying downtown, opt for Korner for Soul (Specialty Coffee) or hit Kensington again and grab a latte at one of the Analog Coffee or Monogram Coffee locations!

When staying by the airport, you will most likely have free breakfast included!

Now for day 2, we recommend this 3-hour bus tour (we took a similar tour years ago when we visited Calgary without a car). This 3-hour sightseeing tour takes you to Heritage Park and the Olympic Park. 

✅ Click to book this 3-hour sightseeing tour

If you have access to a car, you can skip the bus tour and visit the following sights on your own!

Heritage Park

Heritage Park Historical Village is a living history museum and park in Calgary. This heritage park is one of the most visited sites in Canada. Many of the buildings are historical and were transported to be preserved in the park. 

My personal favorite was the Gasoline Alley Museum and the train stations – they make you feel like you’ve gone back in time to the 1960’s. Certain buildings and amusements are recreations, while others are the original historic constructions.

Visitors are welcomed by people in historic costumes and antique automobiles, including horse-drawn vehicles. That’s the Heritage Park for you – educational, yet fun!

In this park, you can also learn about the history of Indigenous people and the Hudson’s Bay Company. There are tapestries and other items like cookware, fur, cots, etc., on display. 

You can expect to spend around 3-5 hours here. They are open every day from 10:00 am to 05:00 pm. There are educational and cultural events available at the Heritage Park.

  • Website: Heritage Park of Calgary
  • Address: 1900 Heritage Dr SW, Calgary, AB T2V 2X3
  • Price: $39.95 CAD per adult for single-day admission. You can also purchase 2-day, summer, or annual passes at discounted prices
Two women in old-fashioned costumes outside a wooden historic post office on a sunny day.

Olympic Park

Canada Olympic Park in Calgary was originally the site of the 1988 Winter Olympics. Currently, the area is operated by WinSport. There are ski and zip-lining courses, perfect for summer or winter, along with opportunities for mountain-biking, tubing, and even mini-golf.

Canada Olympic Park is a popular place for people looking to go skiing or tubing without driving all the way out to the mountains.

If you are short on time and just want to see the site, you can pay a quick visit and get pictures taken by the outside complex that has all international flags from Olympic participants. 

winter sport
Photo by Hert Niks on Pexels.com

While you approach the site, the ski lifts are visible from a distance, making it a great spectacle to look at!

  • Website: Olympic Park (WinSport)
  • Address: 88 Canada Olympic Road SW, Calgary, AB T3B 5R5
  • Price: Starts at $67 CAD per adult for single-day admission. You can purchase 2-day, summer/winter, or annual passes at discounted prices (starting from $330+)

Food Tour of Calgary

Alberta has seven signature products – bison, beef, canola, honey, Saskatoon berries, root vegetables, and Red Fife wheat. So it’s a great idea to book a Food Tour to experience these local delicacies.

Several food tours feature those unique products. Food tours usually last 3 to 3.5 hours and involve walking up to 16 blocks.

You can also join a walking food tour in a market such as the Calgary Farmer’s Market (vegetarian and dietary restrictions accommodated with advance notice).

Price: CAD 65+ per person. Some more popular tours are listed below:

Note: Not all food tours are vegetarian-friendly, and those that are require advance notice. Both food tours we recommend above and the one below can accommodate vegetarians with notice and are highly rated.

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Alternative Tour

If you aren’t interested in a food tour, then there are plenty of other choices. Whether you are looking for a bike tour, an e-scooter tour, or a street art walking tour, Calgary has lots of great options to spend 3 hours of your second day in Calgary.

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Prince’s Island Park

To digest from your food tour, head to Prince’s Island Park. This urban park is in the middle of the Bow River, with walking and cycling trails to explore. Don’t miss the Beaver Sanctuary to see beaver conservation in action. 

In summer, enjoy the green space, walking in nature, and the reprieve from the urban hustle and bustle. 

If you are visiting in winter, there is ice skating here, which is the perfect winter activity.

A wide river almost completely frozen over under a clear blue sky with bare trees on either side.

Read: Our complete guide to fun things to do in Calgary in winter.

Scotsman’s Hill for views + Dining

When the sun goes down, some of Calgary’s best bars and nightclubs come alive. Here, you can experience live music from both local and international artists. Plus, there are plenty of pubs and lounges for those looking for a more laid-back evening.

Or you can hit Scotsman’s Hill for epic city views. This is one of the best places to view Calgary’s iconic skyline with the Saddledome and other buildings – perfect for summer picnics or sunset strolls. 

It is also a prime location for watching the fireworks display during Stampede.

A view across the Calgary Saddledome towards the city at night.

Other things to do: Calgary Itinerary Add-Ons 2 to 5 days

Here are some additional things that you can swap with or add to your Calgary Itinerary. We have also included some seasonal activities.

Calgary Stampede

Let us start with the obvious: Calgary Stampede. The Calgary Stampede is an annual event that occurs every July in Calgary. It’s a ten-day rodeo, exhibition, and festival that attracts millions of visitors every year.

This event dates back to the 19th century, and now the area even hosts a museum, market, and exhibition. The museum can be visited all year round.

  • Website: Calgary Stampede
  • Address: 1410 Olympic Way SE, Calgary, AB 
  • Price: Varies as per events and packages. Typically, $18

The Saddledome

Scotiabank Saddledome is an indoor arena, which is also home to the Calgary Flames of the NHL. It is located in Stampede Park in the southeastern end of downtown Calgary.

The Saddledome is best viewed from the Calgary Tower. Inside the Saddledome, there are restaurants, and it also hosts events other than sports.

  • Address: 555 – Saddledome Rise S.E., Calgary, Alberta
  • Price: Variable (tickets available at Ticketmaster)
A view across trees and the Calgary Saddledome to skyscrapers and Calgary Tower under a cloudy sky,

Telus Spark Science Museum

Telus Spark in Calgary is an interactive science center that offers something for the whole family. This vibrant learning center features a wide range of hands-on exhibits and activities designed to spark curiosity and inspire people of all ages to explore the world around them.

There are both permanent and temporary exhibitions offered at Telus Spark, including a collection of interactive displays. You can learn about robotics, genetics, and more!

In addition to exhibits, Telus Spark also offers a variety of special programs and activities for visitors of all ages. These include workshops on astronomy, green energy, and coding, as well as family-friendly performances. 

Adults can enjoy programs such as Spark after Dark at the science center. There are also special events held throughout the year, such as holiday activities and science camps.

  • Website: Telus Spark
  • Address: 220 Saint George’s Drive Northeast, Calgary, AB T2E 5T2
  • Price: Starts at $33.95 CAD for adults

Calgary New Central Library

The Central Library in Calgary is an incredible building and is home to over 450,000 books from different genres. This modern library, located in the downtown core, features an oval shape and a huge central atrium lit with a skylight.

Stop by the building to admire its architecture, and if you have some time on your hands, visit the inside of the library for a peaceful break from the city outside.

A metal bison sculpture inside a wooden building with different levels leading to a window in the ceiling.

Where to eat for your 2-day Calgary Itinerary

When it comes to food, Calgary is a city with something for everyone. From traditional Canadian dishes to international flavors, the options are plentiful. 

Whether you’re looking for something casual or a fine dining experience, there’s sure to be something that will tantalize your taste buds.

International Cuisines

For those seeking a more casual atmosphere, one of the best options is the eclectic Calgary street food scene. 

Here you’ll find a mix of global flavors from all corners of the world, including Mexican tacos, Greek gyros, and Indian curries. Plus, many vendors offer vegan or vegetarian options as well.

Top picks:

  • Cinnamon Indian Cuisine & Bar
  • Gate of India Fine Indian Cuisine
  • Teatro Ristorante (Italian)
  • Pathway Burgers and Momos (Nepalese)
  • Native Tongues Taqueria (Mexican)

Canadian and pub fare

If you’re in search of classic Canadian cuisine, there are plenty of options as well. 

Top picks:

  • Chairman’s Steakhouse
  • O’Sullivan’s Restaurant & Bar
  • Modern Steak
  • Kensington Pub for a casual eat

Coffee shops, sweets and bakeries

Finally, for those with a sweet tooth, Calgary has plenty of dessert options to choose from. 

Top Picks:

  • Sidewalk Citizen Bakery
  • Éclair de Lune, Pâtisserie & Catering
  • Crave Cookies and Cupcakes
  • Higher Ground Cafe
A close-up shot of a fancy black plate with three pastry towers topped with greenery.

Add A Day Trip from Calgary

When visiting Calgary for more than 2 days, there are plenty of great day trips to take. From tranquil parks to bustling towns, the area around Calgary offers some amazing sights and experiences. 

Don’t miss our complete guide to day trips from Calgary. 

Here’s a quick look at some popular destinations: 

Fish Creek Provincial Park

Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of the largest urban parks in western Canada. Covering over 13 square kilometers, this park is full of trails and natural beauty. The park is great for hiking (even in winter), summer picnics, biking, and bird watching. 

Drive from Calgary: 25 minutes

A bridge over a creek at sunset with beautiful orange and blue light in the background.

Drumheller Provincial Park

Drumheller Provincial Park is another great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Located near the town of Drumheller, this park features stunning badlands scenery, hoodoos, and plenty of wildlife.

Don’t miss the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology while you are there. Here is a full guide to visiting Drumheller from Calgary. 

You can also book a day tour from Calgary to Drumheller and the Badlands

Drive from Calgary: 1 hour 50 minutes

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Cochrane

Cochrane is a great destination for anyone looking for an authentic small-town experience. Here, you’ll find quaint cafes and boutiques as well as plenty of outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.

You can also visit the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary and join a guided tour to learn about wolfdogs. 

Drive from Calgary: 30 minutes

A small-ish city seen from a slight hill with lots of trees around and green rolling hills in the background.

Sheep River Falls

Located in the Kananaskis Country is the Sheep River Provincial Park! This provincial park straddles the Rockies to the west and the foothills to the east, and here you will find the Sheep River Falls. 

Perfect for a nice day trip from Calgary, the area is popular for hikes and walks, and especially lovely in summer. 

Drive from Calgary: 1 hour 20 minutes

Canadian Rockies | Canmore, Banff and Lake Louise

And of course, when in Calgary, the Rockies are closer than you think. You can drive an hour or so to reach the beautiful Canadian Rockies. I envy Calgarians for this – they have a heavenly detox right at their doorstep – a perfect weekend getaway, nature therapy, adventure tour, you name it, and the Rockies have it all!

  • Price: Admission fees to Banff National Park – $24.50/vehicle of up to 7 passengers for 1 day
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FAQ and Important Info for Visiting Calgary

How to Get to Calgary

Getting to Calgary can be done several ways, depending on your budget and preferences. The most popular route is by air, as the city has a major international airport with multiple daily flights from cities all over the world. 

Nearest Airport: Calgary has an international airport, so you’ll most likely be arriving at YYC (Calgary) if flying into Canada internationally 

By Road: Calgary is well-connected by road from most Canadian cities, including the capital city of Alberta, Edmonton.

Do I need a visa to visit Calgary and Canada?

Visa Requirements: It’s important to note that visitors who do not have citizenship or permanent residency in Canada may need to apply for a travel visa before embarking on their trip.

Travel Documents: Visitors from the European nations (and certain other countries) have to get an eTA before flying to Canada. It costs CAD $7 and takes a few minutes to apply online. It is valid for 5 years or until your passport expires.

How to Get Around Calgary

Once in Calgary, getting around town is easy and convenient with several options available. The city’s public transit system includes buses, light rail, and commuter trains that can get visitors to any destination quickly and safely. 

You cannot tap with a credit card, though, and must purchase a day pass or single-use pass at any of the metro stations. 

Accessibility: Bus service and LRT are very good in Calgary. It’s safe, fast, and convenient. Alternatively, there are also plenty of taxi and car rental services available as well. 

For visitors looking to explore Calgary’s vibrant downtown area, walking is the way to go. With its wide sidewalks and numerous attractions, it’s easy to get around on foot and take in all that the city has to offer. 

For those who prefer a more scenic approach, cycling is another great option with plenty of bike trails available throughout the city.

If you plan on traveling outside the city, renting a car is your best bet. With its highways and intercity roads, it’s possible to travel to neighboring towns like Banff or Canmore with ease. 

Plus, there are numerous car rental agencies located throughout Calgary, making it easy for travelers to pick up a vehicle of choice.

A close-up view of the red Calgary Peace Bridge taken from below the bridge, showing the river underneath and clear blue sky above.

Where Should I Stay in Calgary?

When it comes to accommodation in Calgary, there are lots of choices that cater to a variety of budgets and preferences. 

The downtown area is the perfect place for those who want to experience the hustle and bustle of city life, while airport hotels provide great convenience after a long flight, as well as perks like free parking and quick access to the mountains! 

Calgary offers state-of-the-art hotels like the Fairmont and Sheraton Hotels (both in Downtown Calgary). Hotel prices range from CAD$ 300+ for 5-star hotels. 

There are budget hotels also available, with free parking and breakfast. Hotel prices start at CAD$ 70-100+ for motels and budget styles. 

The downtown area of Calgary with Calgary Tower rising above other buildings.

No matter where you choose to stay, you’re sure to find something that will make your stay in Calgary memorable.

Read: The best hotels in Calgary.

Our top favorites are: 

Le Germain Calgary

Le Germain Hotel Group is arguably the best Canadian hotel brand, and the Calgary branch is no different. Founded right here in Canada, they offer bespoke accommodation. The service is really what you would expect from warm, friendly Canadian hospitality.

The design is the right amount of luxury: spacious rooms and a nice lobby. We love staying in a Le Germain hotel whenever we have the chance.

✅ Check prices and book your stay at Le Germain Calgary by clicking here

The Westin Calgary

For those looking to explore downtown, the first recommendation is the Westin Calgary. Located in the heart of the city, this modern hotel offers spacious rooms and suites with a range of amenities. There is a pool and a spa on-site. 

Plus, it’s just minutes away from some of Calgary’s most famous attractions, including the Calgary Tower and Stephen Avenue Walk.

✅ Check prices and book your stay at the Westin Calgary by clicking here

Fairmont Palliser

Another great option for Calgary downtown is the Fairmont Palliser. A Canadian-owned brand, the Fairmont is synonymous with Canadian and luxury hospitality. With its prime location close to major attractions like the Calgary Tower, it’s perfect for those wanting to experience all that the city has to offer. 

Its luxurious facilities and amenities make it one of the most popular hotels in town.

✅ Check prices and book your stay at the Fairmont Palliser by clicking here

Residence Inn by Marriott Calgary Airport

For travelers arriving by air, there are several airport hotels to choose from. The Residence Inn by Marriott is a great option for airport travelers. 

Boasting large rooms and plenty of amenities, this hotel is perfect for those who want to relax after a long flight. 

Plus, its free parking is great if you are renting a car!

✅ Check prices and book your stay at the Residence Inn by clicking here

Hampton Inn

The Hampton Inn is one of the top choices, as it’s located within a short distance from the Calgary International Airport. 

With its modern amenities, this hotel is perfect for those who want convenience without sacrificing comfort.

✅ Check prices and book your stay at the Hampton Inn by clicking here

A close-up shot of skyscrapers in Calgary at dusk.

Land Acknowledgement for Calgary

Calgary is located on the ancestral lands of the Blackfoot Nations of the Siksika (Seeg-see-kah), Piikani (bee-Gun-nee) and Kainai (G-ai-nah) First Nations; the Îethka Nakoda Wîcastabi (ee-YETH’-kah nah-COH’-dah WHISK’-ah-tah-bay) First Nations, comprised of the Chiniki (Chin-ick-ee), Bearspaw, and Goodstoney First Nations; and the Tsuut’ina First Nation.

In the Blackfoot language, Calgary is called Moh-kins-tsis (moh-GIN’-stis (a soft ‘g’). The Îethka Nakoda Wîcastabi (ee-YETH’-kah nah-COH’-dah WHISK’-ah-tah-bay) First Nations refer to this place as Wicispa Oyade (weh-CHIS’-spa oh-YAH’-day) and the people of the Tsuut’ina (Soot-tenna) nation call it Guts-ists-I (GOOT’-sis). The Métis call the Calgary area Otos-kwunee (oh-TUSS’ – kwanee).

The red Calgary Peace Bridge stretching across the river with snow on the opposite bank and a clear blue sky above.

Comment and Share Calgary in 2 Days

Overall, Calgary is a great city to visit for 2 or more days. Whether you’re looking for historical sites, outdoor activities, shopping experiences, or dining options, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant metropolis. Two days is the perfect amount of time to enjoy the city’s highlights and some unexpected local gems. 

Plan to spend at least two days here before heading to the Rockies on an all-Canadian road trip. We are sure you will enjoy it!

Four portrait photos in a grid showing the Calgary tower, Calgary buildings next to a river with fall foliage, a bridge over a river at night and an interior roof-window in a wooden building. In between the top and bottom images text reads "How to spend the perfect 2 days in Calgary, Alberta."
A photo of tall buildings next to a river at golden hour, with a text box at the top left that says "Alberta, Canada" and another bright orange text box at the bottom that says "Two Day Itinerary For Calgary."

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Accommodation: Booking.com to find accommodation with a Genius Discount and clear third-party sustainable certifications like Green Key. Look for local hotels.

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Travel: Omio for booking buses and trains in English across Europe. After reducing the number of flights I take annually, I use Google Flights’ carbon comparison tool. 

Car Rental: Rentalcars for the best rates in English globally. It is easy to find hybrids and EVs, and there are resources for finding chargers. 

Packing Essentials: REI or your local Co-op has great essentials like reusable water bottles and cutlery sets. Patagonia for regenerative clothing.  Farm to Feet for socks made with regenerative practices! Pistil Designs for cold-weather essentials. Osprey for bags that last 10+ years, like the day bag for hiking or my favorite carry-on.

eSIM: Airalo eSIM. Reduces waste from single-use SIMs. A total game-changer. 

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