Where to Stay in Calgary: The Best Hotels in Calgary

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Heading to Alberta and curious about where the best place to stay in Calgary is? There are lots of great places to stay in Calgary, and knowing which to choose can be challenging. Read more to find the best places to stay in Calgary, Alberta. Our guide includes a list of the best hotels in Calgary for all budgets and travel styles. 

Calgary is a beautiful city in western Canada. As the commercial capital of Alberta, surrounded by mountains, it is considered to be one of the most livable cities in Canada and even one of the top in the world. Many tourists visit Calgary, as it is a gateway to the amazing Canadian Rockies and Banff National Park.

Whether you are visiting Calgary for two days looking for a comfortable hotel downtown, or just need a quick airport hotel on your way to Banff National Park, we’ve curated our top hotel pick in Calgary. This guide has hotels from the popular neighborhoods in Calgary, including boutique hotels in Kensington, local sustainable hotels in the downtown core, airport hotels, and more. 

Quick Look: Best Hotels and Where to Stay in Calgary

Our top three hotels to book in Calgary are:

• Le Germain Calgary for a Canadian-owned high-end hotel downtown
• Hotel Arts for a boutique hotel in a hip neighborhood
• Hampton Inn for a quick airport hotel at a great value. 

Read on for our complete guide to the best hotels in Calgary with detailed descriptions and personal experiences. 

Independent and Boutique Hotels in Calgary

Canadian hospitality is unparalleled. Find that warm, welcoming spirit with several independent and boutique hotel stays in Calgary.  Independent and sustainable hotels are a great choice for a bespoke and one-of-a-kind stay in Calgary. 

We recommend opting for something Canadian-owned to support the local Canadian economy. These top Calgary hotels are our top choice for those looking to spend a few days in Calgary, enjoying the very best of the city, while making a responsible and sustainable choice. 

Le Germain Hotel ($$+)

Le Germain is our top pick for the best hotel in all of Calgary. The Le Germain Hotel group is a small, independent, and Canadian family-owned hotel brand known for its luxury and Canadian hospitality. The Calgary option is a fantastic choice and one of the best places to stay in Calgary. 

The hotel brand is one of the most sustainable choices in Canada. The Calgary Le Germain hotel in particular is Green Key certified and uses geothermal energy to heat and cool its building as part of their emission reduction efforts. 

This 4-star hotel, located in Downtown Calgary, features chic, contemporary interiors featuring local art. Choose from three types of large room designs that are all clean, well-maintained, and beautiful. 

Enjoy wining and dining at the on-site restaurant, Charcut Roast House. Grab a cocktail at Lounge Central 899 lobby bar. Rest and recharge at the RnR Wellness Spa. 

Check prices, availability, and book here. 

Fairmont Palliser ($$$)

One of the iconic hotels in Calgary is the Fairmont Palliser. I should admit I love heritage and buildings (Salil and I were engaged here, so this hotel is extra special). Fairmont Palliser dates back to 1914 when it opened its hospitality doors for the first time. Since then, the Fairmont, along with the Calgary Tower next to it, have been every photographer’s delight.

Fairmont Palliser rooms are luxurious. Their on-site restaurants include the Oak Room Lounge and Rimrock Dining Room. These are great for slow evenings or for romantic dine-ins without leaving the property. 

There is a reason why Salil chose this place for our engagement and our favorite hotel in Calgary. Fairmont Palliser is all about romance, royalty, and indulgence. Fairmont offers special couples spa/massage packages and bed and breakfast packages to its visitors (for a fee). Trust me, it is a sure way to win over your sweetheart!

The Fairmont name is synonymous with Canadian luxury hospitality with nods to history and heritage. One of the oldest names in Canadian hotels, the Fairmont brand is found across Canada and has been welcoming Canadians and sophisticated travelers for years to come. 

Check prices, availability, and book here. 

The Dorian, Autograph Collection ($$+)

The Dorian is a cozy boutique hotel in the heart of downtown. This bespoke hotel is inspired by Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray. That means you’ll find Victorian details throughout the hotel — but it isn’t a stuffy historic hotel. 

From the wallpaper to the interactive art in the lobby, The Dorian manages to bring this historic charm to a modern age with beautifully designed rooms. The beds are comfortable enough to stay in bed all day—if you choose. 

Located in the heart of downtown, you have access to urban attractions as well as the Bow River. The dining experience at The Dorian might just be one of the best of any hotel in Calgary. Choose from lunch or dinner with stunning rooftop views, a cafe and cocktail bar, in-room dining, and even an immersive dining experience. 

Calgary’s first Michelin Key hotel, you can expect the best comfort, service, and amenities from any hotel in Calgary. The Dorian is an Autograph Collection hotel, so you can still rack up your Marriott points while supporting independent and boutique hotels. 

Check prices, availability, and book here. 

Hotel Arts Kensington ($$)

If you are looking for a quiet and small boutique stay in Calgary, then the Hotel Arts Kensington is perfect for you. With only 19 guest rooms, each one is thoughtfully designed with art and attention to detail.

Choose from several types of guest rooms, from suites to luxury rooms. Enjoy views of the Bow River and Calgary’s skyline. Some rooms come with a fireplace and balcony or patio access, inviting you to feel right at home. 

Kensington is one of Calgary’s best neighborhoods. Just north of the downtown core across the river, Kensington is known for its hip neighborhood feel with plenty of bars, restaurants, and local attractions. 

Beyond the art-centric approach, you can also enjoy plenty of amenities. Borrow bikes to ride along the river, eat a complimentary breakfast, and enjoy on-site parking. Dine at the Oxbow restaurant for world-class dining. 

Check prices, availability, and book here.

More Hotels in Downtown Calgary 

Calgary Downtown, or ‘city centre’ as it’s called, is the vibrant heart and soul of the city. Almost all of the city’s major tourist attractions are located in Downtown Calgary. This includes Calgary Tower, Stephen Avenue Walk, Glenbow Museum, Chinatown, Eau Claire Park, to name a few. Stay downtown for easy access to these sights and attractions. 

The entire downtown is well connected via Calgary LRT (light rail transit) and buses. Distance from Calgary downtown to the airport is 10-15 km ($40-45 for a taxi ride one way). Hotel parking is not free, so you will have to pay for parking if bringing your vehicle.

Sheraton Suites Eau Claire ($$+)

This grand 4-star hotel in Downtown Calgary is an amazing place to stay. Sheraton Eau Claire is located in a fantastic area – close to restaurants and bars, and tourist attractions. However, the main attraction is easy access to the amazing Eau Claire, which is one of Calgary’s best green parks and also happens to feature a market. 

Sheraton Calgary’s rooms are spacious and modern, offering stunning views of downtown cityscape from its rooms. The amenities include a swimming pool and an on-site bar. 

You will definitely feel at home here, taking advantage of that incredible Canadian hospitality.

Sheraton Eau Claire offers an airport shuttle (for a fee), has a currency exchange counter on-site, and is pet-friendly.

 Check prices, availability, and book here. 

Hyatt Calgary Downtown ($$$)

Hyatt Downtown Calgary is another 4 -star luxurious hotel, which is located close to the TELUS Convention Center. Its prime downtown spot provides good access to all the tourist sightseeing/attractions and restaurants in Calgary.

Hyatt’s rooms are spacious, and they offer stunning views of the downtown core, including the Calgary Tower. The hotel is pet-friendly as well.

Hyatt hotel also has one of the best spas in Calgary. The STILLWATER is the perfect place to pamper yourself and escape the cold Calgary winters without leaving the comfort of your hotel.

Other amenities include free WIFI, on-site restaurants, a swimming pool, fitness and business centre, and an executive lounge. Hyatt’s showcases its luxurious and top-notch hospitality at this downtown hotel.

Check prices, availability, and book here. 

Calgary International Airport Hotels

Calgary International Airport is the fourth busiest airport in Canada. It is called YYC airport, and it connects international travelers to the Canadian Rockies. Banff National Park in the Rockies is only 1.5 hours from Calgary. 

Downtown Calgary is located about 17- 18 kilometers from the airport, so those on a quick stopover on their way to the Rockies may want to stay at the airport.  If Banff is your ultimate goal when you arrive in Calgary and you wish to stay close to the airport, this list has you covered.

All hotels located by Calgary International Airport offer free shuttle services to the airport (and return). Shuttle trips should be booked in advance with the hotel’s front desk to reserve your spot and ensure on-time airport arrival/departure.

Note: There is no LRT (light rail transit) or bus connectivity from the airport hotels to the city centre/downtown. Car rental/cabs are an option if you wish to explore the downtown area from airport hotels. All airport hotels include FREE parking.

Courtyard by Marriott – Calgary Airport North ($$)

Courtyard by Marriott is a great Calgary Airport hotel. Courtyard by Marriott offers executive-level luxury at a value price.

The hotel has a restaurant and bar, The Bistro, serving breakfast in the morning and drinks during the evening. Starbucks Coffee is also located here. 

The Courtyard is the ideal quick stopover airport hotel. Perfect for a night on your way to Banff and the Rockies or business trips and “working” away from the office. Free wifi and parking are included. Rooms are usually always available at this hotel, making it the perfect last-minute place to book for those that need a bridging hotel for longer Canadian Rocky experiences. 

Check prices, availability, and book here. 

Hampton Inn by Hilton – North Airport ($+)

Hampton Inn by Hilton is one of our favorite hotels near the Calgary airport. The location is great – quick access to the airport and Banff. Hampton Inn is also one of the newer hotel properties in Calgary.

It is a 3-star hotel but is packed with great value. Their rooms are spacious, clean, and beautiful. The hotel offers free breakfast every day. Parking, a free airport shuttle and wifi and a fitness center are also included with every booking.

What we liked most about the hotel is how close it is to the airport, and their rooms offer great views of planes taking off and landing. Airport views are our weakness. We had stayed at this hotel just for those views of the planes. So, yes, we definitely recommend the Hampton Inn for a quick stay-cation as well.

Hampton Inn by Hilton is also minutes away from the Cross Iron Mills Mall (biggest outlet mall in Alberta). Hampton Inn is different from Hampton Inn Suites – both are located in the airport area. Hampton Inn (link is below) is located closer to the airport, and this is what we recommend, based on our experience staying there.

Check prices, availability, and book here. 

Residence Inn by Marriott – Calgary Airport ($+)

Another good airport hotel is the Residence Inn by Marriott. This Calgary Airport hotel features spacious guest rooms with fully equipped kitchens, free internet, free breakfast, free parking, and is ideal for long-term stays. It also includes a fitness center, indoor heated pool, and complimentary airport shuttle.

The hotel has a restaurant on-site and includes green space for leisure walking (also pet-friendly). Residence Inn by Marriott is located minutes away from the Cross Iron Mill as well. 

Located in the same area as the Courtyard by Marriott, the Residence Inn is better for longer stays. For a longer stay, take advantage of the rooms with suite kitchenettes and the cozy outdoor and communal spaces. 

The hotel has unique evening social mixers during weekdays in the evenings for guests to partake. That way, even if you are on a longer business trip, you’ll never feel alone. 

Check prices, availability, and book here.

Hotels on MacLeod Trail

Macleod Trail is a major road in Calgary. It extends from downtown Calgary to the south of the city. It is an expressway that extends from Calgary City Hall, Olympic Plaza, south of downtown, touches Calgary Stampede grounds to Betline, and all the way to Chinook Centre mall, while passing through the communities of Meadowlark Park, Kingsland, Fairview, and South Centre Mall.

Due to its accessibility to any part of the city, staying along the MacLeod Trail is also a good option for Calgary. Location aside, some of Calgary’s most affordable hotels are along this route with nightly rates starting at $90.

Carriage House Inn – Calgary South ($+)

While there are plenty of hotels along MacLeod Trail, the Carriage House Inn is the best hotel choice. It is a modest hotel located on MacLeod Trail in south Calgary. The property is packed with various amenities like rooftop access, a steam room, free wifi and parking, a heated pool and sauna, gym, and a swimming pool.

It is a perfect place to stay with family or for business. Close access to a golf course, skiing, shopping, and restaurants. The hotel has 4 restaurants on-site. Free breakfast is included. The rooms are spacious and clean.

Tourist areas like the Calgary Stampede and downtown Calgary are located about 8 kilometers from the hotel (10 min drive). Chinook Mall (a popular mall in Calgary) is only 5 minutes away. Both buses and LRT are easily accessible from the hotel. Parking is included at no additional cost.

Check prices, availability, and book here. 

Hotels in Calgary North West

Calgary’s northwest consists of the University of Calgary and area, and McMahon Stadium. This area is connected well via LRT and local buses. McMahon Stadium is owned by the University of Calgary. It is a football stadium, which is well known as the site of the 1988 Winter Olympic Games (opening and closing ceremonies were held here).

Holiday Inn Express and Suites – University ($)

If you plan to stay closer to the University area, then head to the Holiday Inn Express and Suites. This is a clean and beautiful hotel with a great price. Free parking, WIFI, and breakfast are also offered to its guests. The hotel property has a swimming pool, a hot tub, and a water slide.

Ideal for family and group stays. The airport is located 10 kilometers away, and Calgary downtown is located 6 kilometers away from the hotel. McMahon Stadium is just a few steps away. The hotel is easily accessible by C-trains (LRT) and buses.

Check prices, availability, and book here. 

Find Your Perfect Hotel!

If you didn’t find what you were looking for on our list of top hotels and places to stay in Calgary, there are hundreds more options!

Use the map feature below to quickly find your top hotel choice on Expedia or Booking for a convenient way to book. 

Quick Tips for Visiting Calgary

Calgary is a metro city with skyscraper buildings, light rail systems, commercial offices, malls, restaurants, and awesome nightlife. The closest airport to Banff National Park is Calgary. So it is worth spending a day or two in Calgary before your visit to Banff (or if you are making travel connections via Calgary).

When is the best time to visit Calgary?

The best time to visit Calgary is summer – May to August, followed by winter months from November to January.

Summer will be busy due to the influx of travelers to Banff. There are tons of riverside (including Segway tours) activities in summer. 

Wintertime in Calgary calls for cozy winter vibes, snowboarding and other Christmas lights-related events. (Fairmont Palliser hotel showcases a huge gingerbread at their lobby during the holiday season).

What is the best area to stay in Calgary?

Staying in downtown Calgary is ideal for those looking to spend a few nights in some of Calgary’s best hotels. This will allow for easy access to Calgary’s main sights and public transportation. 

If you are looking to immerse yourself in a local neighborhood, book a boutique hotel in Kensington. This allows for access to some top bars and restaurants as well as a home-away-from-home feel. 

For quick stopovers on your way to the Rockies or longer business trips, the airport hotels offer convenience, cheaper rooms, or comfortable amenities for longer stays. 

What are some tips for booking a hotel in Calgary?  

CAD – Canadian dollars are used in Calgary. Credit cards are widely accepted at all stores, hotels, and gas stations.

Most hotels will take a deposit of $50/ night as collateral for damages. They are returned to the credit card upon check-out.

We use booking.com to enjoy rewards and discounts without committing to one specific brand. 

What is there to do in Calgary?

No matter where you stay, there is lots ot do in Calgary.

• Read: Our complete 2-day itinerary and things to do in Calgary
• Read: Day trips from Calgary.
• Read: 10-day Canadian itineraries that use Calgary as a base.

Or book a tour with a local guide to explore Calgary. 

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Calgary is an incredible city with an awe-inspiring downtown core and lots of charming local neighborhoods on the outskirts of the city. Knowing where to stay