There’s a reason why Banff, the first national park to be established in Canada, is visited by more than four million people every year. Spanning 2,564 square miles, this UNESCO World Heritage Site and alpine wonderland is home to treasures like aqua-blue glacial lakes and snow-covered peaks punctuated by teahouses. Banff is brimming with natural beauty, from the geological drama of its landscapes to the spectacular species that have long called the national park home. And with skiing and snowshoeing in winter, hiking and biking in spring and fall, and canoeing and camping in summer, there’s no bad season to visit.
Lucky for eager travelers, there are an abundance of great places to stay when you visit—whether you seek a ski-in hotel room, a château on the banks of a glacial lake, or a feel-like-a-local downtown rental surrounded by shops and hiking trails. From new hotels to cabin escapes, the stays below offer an abundance of ways to connect with the park’s beauty and spirit.
Scroll down for 17 of the best hotels and rentals to consider when deciding where to stay in and around Banff National Park.
Hotels near Banff National Park
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Bed & bath: Varies by accommodation
Top amenities: Canoeing on Lake Louise, five restaurant and bar options, spa, fitness center with classes
Nearby attractions: Lake Louise, Lake Agnes Tea House, Big Beehive, Brewster Stables
A five-star château awaits you at the world-famous, 539-room Fairmont Château Lake Louise. Another six-time Readers' Choice Award winner, this hotel offers the epitome of elegance to guests: surreal lake views, soothing soaks at the new Basin Glacial Waters bathhouse, stellar food and beverage options, and scores of outdoor activities. A destination in and of itself, this fairytale resort was initially built to entice travelers to embark on a Rocky Mountain rail adventure during the early days of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Fling open your blinds in the morning for a front-row view of turquoise Lake Louise flanked by the prominent peaks of Victoria Glacier. Take it all in, then get outside no matter the season for a day spent doing anything and everything: go for a guided hike to a mountainside teahouse, join an e-bike tour, take a sleigh ride, or hit the slopes. Upon your return, stroll beneath the ornate chandelier, passing galleries and on-site shops, to enjoy a cocktail with a view at Fairview Bar & Restaurant. Pro tip: Spend at least one morning with a cup of coffee in bed and an elaborate in-room dining spread (try a blueberry scone and the brioche French toast) while you witness the sun sparkling on the lake.
The Rimrock Resort Hotel
Bed & bath: Varies by accommodation
Top amenities: EV charging stations, book exchange, two restaurants and two bars, full-service spa, in-room minibars
Nearby attractions: Via Ferrata, Banff Gondola, Surprise Corner Viewpoint, Tunnel Mountain Trail
Majestically poised on the edge of Sulphur Mountain, Rimrock Resort is as gorgeous as the view that surrounds it. Drive through a stone archway to be greeted by the 333-room, 24-suite stone-clad phenomenon. Sophisticated rooms all feature impeccable views ranging from Bow Valley to Rundle Mountain and Cascade Mountain. The spa and high-end fitness centers each offer floor-to-ceiling windows with their own picture-perfect views, and plenty of self-care possibilities for guests looking for indulgence or invigoration. Be sure to try Canadian-inspired dishes featuring locally-sourced ingredients at Primrose, then wind down by the fire at Larkspur Lounge. With Bow Falls, one of Banff’s best waterfalls, accessible from the property’s courtyard, you can experience the park's best with minimal effort. (The Rimrock Resort Hotel will be temporarily closed for renovations from early October 2025 through Spring 2026.)
Fairmont Banff Springs
Bed & bath: Varies by accommodation
Top amenities: Two on-site golf courses, seven restaurants and three bars, full-service spa, tennis courts
Nearby attractions: Banff Springs Golf Course, Bow Falls, Cascade of Time Garden, Banff Upper Hot Springs
Fairmont Banff Springs is the copper-roofed castle with a million-dollar view that you've been dreaming of. Snow-dusted mountaintops provide a backdrop for this Scottish Baronial fortress, whose interior is made up of Tyndall stones holding 450-million-year-old fossils. The 768-room manor and National Historic Site of Canada is a six-time Readers' Choice Awards winner, and Banff Springs Golf Course, which sits on the property, boasts one of the world's highest-ranked holes: Devil’s Cauldron. After a round of golf, experiencing the hotel's iconic afternoon tea is a must—take a sip and stay a while as you enjoy fine finger sandwiches and petite pastries, all perfectly positioned on a tiered tea stand. You can cap off your day by making your way from a mineral-infused Kur bath and massage at the spa to the mindful Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku (forest bathing); or, take a mixology class at Rundle Bar, then wrap it all up with warm fondue at Waldhaus Restaurant or a cheese board from Grapes.
Moraine Lake Lodge
Bed & bath: 1-2 bedrooms, 1 bath
Top amenities: Canoeing on Moraine Lake, afternoon tea and coffee, interpretive nature presentations, hiking with an on-staff naturalist
Nearby attractions: Moraine Lake, Rockpile Trail, Larch Valley Hike, Lake Louise Gondola
The ethereal blue Moraine Lake has long been a draw to travelers—and if it's caught your eye, you might want to spend a night at the intimate 33-room Moraine Lake Lodge, perched right on its spectacular shores. Accommodations on the property range from rooms to cabins, all of which offer stunning lake views. Guests at this jewel can take out complimentary canoes at their leisure, immersing themselves in the water at the center of the snowcapped Valley of Ten Peaks. In the fall, you can embark on a hike that begins right outside your door, exploring the iconic Larch Valley for leaf-peeping opportunities and unmatched mountain views. Curl up under a Woolrich blanket beside your wood-burning fireplace when you return to your cabin, and contemplate which wine to order from the vintage-filled cellar at the glass-walled Walter Wilcox dining room (a dinner spot that's exclusive to guests).
Read our full review of Moraine Lake Lodge.
The Malcolm Hotel
Bed & bath: Varies by accommodation
Top amenities: Rooftop firepit, heated pool with mountain views, pet-friendly rooms, comfy beds
Nearby attractions: Canmore Nordic Centre, Grassi Falls, Quarry Lake Park
When it comes to stays near Banff, The Malcolm Hotel is a standout for both pet-lovers and view-chasers. Set against the Rockies in Canmore, the 124-room hotel embodies classic mountain luxury with a Scottish flair and offers rooms with mountain or creek views (including a selection of designated pet-friendly accommodations). Pups are welcomed with freshly baked treats from the local Mut Hut Emporium, while treats for humans include outdoor hot tub soaks, heated pool swims, and cozy fireside moments in the crisp alpine air. Dining is another highlight: The King’s Table Experience at the Sterling Grill offers a prix fixe menu featuring three- and five-course chef’s tastings with optional wine pairings, while the cheese flight is the perfect snack to savor between adventures.
The Kenrick Hotel
Bed & bath: Varies by accommodation
Top amenities: Indoor saltwater pool with a full-service bar; contrast bath therapy; libraries with books, records, and board games; pillow menu
Nearby attractions: Central Park, Bow Falls Viewpoint, Surprise Corner Viewpoint
Renewal is at the heart of this 67-room boutique hotel, which is locally owned and family operated. Once the High Country Inn, it was reborn in spring 2025 with a luxe, modern makeover. Hours can slip away at the Nora Pool complex, where saltwater soaks and steam sessions pair with a full-service bar pouring Palomas and Negronis on tap. Grab a snack from the pool menu, or save your appetite for spaghetti and elk meatballs at the on-site, all-day Italian restaurant, The Fat Ox. Then retreat to your room or suite to cuddle up on fuzzy chairs and plush couches. Decor is sophisticated with neutral tones and an enticing mix of unique textures and shapes. In other words, sensory perfection.
Juniper Hotel
Bed & bath: Varies by accommodation
Top amenities: Jetted tubs, rain showers, complimentary bike rentals, hybrid shuttles downtown
Nearby attractions: Mount Norquay Ski Resort, Vermillion Lakes, Fenland Trail, Banff Hot Springs
On the lower slopes of Mount Norquay, surrounded by gardens of native plants and bee houses, the modernist 52-room Juniper Hotel will captivate you with its rich history, famous brunch (check out the unique mimosas and “Juniper Bennies”), and eco-conscious ideology. The rustic-chic property features iconic 360-degree views of the Rockies and Vermilion Lakes, and stands minutes away from both the wildlife corridor and downtown Banff on an archaeological site that has been a gathering place for people and animals for over 4,000 years—be sure to borrow a backpack or hop on a complimentary bike to explore the scenic trails located steps away. Experience some of the most scenic vistas in the park from a private balcony or patio connected to your room, and continue to soak up Bow Valley views from the Juniper Bistro’s open-air patio or floor-to-ceiling windows. To honor all who have passed through the area, the hotel displays artifacts and art that celebrate the history of the indigenous tribes and early travelers.
Sunshine Mountain Lodge
Bed & bath: 1-2 bedrooms, 1 bath
Top amenities: Ski-in rooms, private balconies, heated floors, hot tub, on-site restaurants
Nearby attractions: Verde Day Spa, Banff Sunshine Gondola, Delirium Dive, Sunshine Meadows
Hop onto a gondola surrounded by sweeping views as you ascend to your boutique, high-alpine retreat on the Alberta-British Columbia Boundary. Famous for being the only ski-in/ski-out hotel in the national park (yes, you can literally ski out of your hotel room), this secluded yet centrally located 84-room lodge is a must-visit for winter sports enthusiasts. Offering direct access to some of the best skiing and snowboarding terrain in the Rockies, including the iconic Delirium Dive, guests can enjoy slopes that range from beginner-friendly to challenging. After you’re done with your runs, melt the day away in the huge hot tub or relax in the sauna. Continue to thaw with a hot drink and a house-made croissant at the Java Lift Coffee Bar, or enjoy a full meal at Mad Trapper’s Saloon. The warmth doesn't stop there—opt for a West Wing Premiere Guest Room for heated floors and a gas fireplace worth sprawling out in front of. In the warmer months, the hotel provides access to stunning backcountry trails that loop around alpine lakes, all accessible by lift.
Canalta Lodge
Bed & bath: Varies by accommodation
Top amenities: Cold plunge and hot tubs, outdoor barrel sauna, complimentary hot breakfast, ski lockers, tuning bench
Nearby attractions: Cave and Basin Historic Site, Hoodoos Viewpoint, Sky Bistro, Bear Street Tavern
Canalta Lodge offers a happy hour with a complimentary s'more-making station. Need we say more? Beyond pleasing your palates and lifting your spirits, the overall atmosphere of this practical yet indulgent getaway is inspired by camping. Bedside lantern lights create a weekend-in-nature ambiance, all while providing the comforts of home and a wide range of room options. These accommodations range from classic and contemporary hotel suites to lofts with full kitchens and bunk beds for the little ones. The laid-back lodge centers around a courtyard that boasts cold plunge tubs, a barrel sauna, barbecues, and areas to hang out, making it perfect for chill hangouts that contrast with days spent summiting peaks with your squad.
Rentals near Banff National Park
Bed & bath: 10 bedrooms, 8.5 baths
Top amenities: Stocked game room, chef’s kitchen and kitchenette, mountain views
Nearby attractions: Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, Banff Pedestrian Bridge, Tunnel Mountain, Bluebird Woodfired Steakhouse
There is ample space for everyone at this four-story mountain home—the property sleeps up to 23, to be exact. Rentals this large are rare in general, let alone in the center of Banff. Convene with the crew on the main floor, where 16 can fit comfortably for group meals in the cheerful dining room. Wallpapered bathrooms, wood-beam living rooms, and cozy reading nooks make for a getaway that can facilitate both pizzazz and peace. Consider it the perfect launchpad for that family reunion or group trip that's been endlessly in the works. And for the introvert who also adores traveling with others (or a couple that wants a bit more privacy), the top floor offers an apartment-style unit complete with a kitchenette.
Bed & bath: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Rooftop hot tubs, complimentary Banff Park Pass, indoor fireplace
Nearby attractions: Alpine Helicopters, Canmore Engine Bridge, Art Country Canada Canmore Gallery
A palette of winter greens and woodsy browns pairs effortlessly with modern appliances in this dreamy mountain retreat with two queen bedrooms. Sink into the soft corduroy couch, light up the fireplace, and let your eyes drift from the majestic mountain views outside to your favorite people curled up on the plush chairs across from you. As the evening winds down, cue up a movie in the main room or hop in the shared rooftop hot tubs. Take in the views of the summit from your window, then drive down the street with your free Banff Parks Pass to get up close and personal with the peaks.
Bed & bath: 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths
Top amenities: South-facing deck with lounge, living room with gas fireplace, Rocky Mountain Soap Company body wash, two parking spots
Nearby attractions: Legacy Trail, Canmore Museum and Geoscience Centre, Beamer’s Coffee Bar, Le Fournil Bakery
Leave your snowboards and skis in the mudroom and bound up the staircase at this inviting and homey two-story Canmore townhouse. The light-filled rental is ready for a family holiday or a retreat with your friends— whether your crew wants to explore the charming town of Canmore or spend the day meandering up and down peaks and valleys, this spacious stay serves as a home base for it all. The immaculate mountain views from the windows and balcony will make you stop and stare, and the comfortable couches and chairs in front of the indoor fireplace will call for you to take a seat with a good book. Sleeping options for your party include four bunk beds and a king and queen bedroom.
Bed & bath: 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths
Top amenities: Indoor gas fireplace, complimentary Parks Canada pass, stocked modern kitchen, mountain views
Nearby attractions: Policeman Creek Trail, Riverwalk Canmore, Where the Buffalo Roam Saloon, Eclipse Coffee Roasters
You'll do a double-take when you see the views from these windows. This modern and centrally located Canmore penthouse feels like a stay inside a postcard. There is space for two cars in the driveway, but a vehicle really isn't necessary. Biking and hiking trails are steps away, along with a multitude of local shops and restaurants. The modern new-build features multiple massive mirrors, smart TVs in every room, sunflower-yellow towels, and a balcony with snow-capped mountain views. The cozy and carpeted upstairs bedrooms are decorated with wall art that encapsulates the tremendous landscapes within the park. Downstairs, wooden ceilings and floors contrast with clean white walls, a color palette inspired by the winter forest.
Bed & bath: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Ski and snowboard storage, pool, outdoor firepit, mountain views, indoor fireplace
Nearby attractions: Banff Park Museum National Historic Site, Mount Norquay, Cross Zee Ranch, Banff Legacy Trail, Wild Flour Bakery
This elevated yet rustic cedar log haven is a dream mountain house. Dark-stained beams balance with the warmth of fully wooded ceilings and matching walls. Magnificent in both looks and location, the walkability of this Banff basecamp is hard to beat. Stacked logs line the backyard oasis, which you can admire from a wicker bench on the balcony or while seated in cushioned Adirondack chairs around the firepit. Turn in for the evening on a Tempur-Pedic mattress as you ponder which trail you’ll traverse tomorrow.
Bed & bath: 3 bedrooms, 3 baths
Top amenities: Oversized balcony, multiple workstations, heated bathroom floor, abundant sleeping spaces
Nearby attractions: Grassi Lakes, Canmore Engine Bridge, Grotto Canyon Hike, Communitea Café
Your search for a rental located in a vibrant town with jaw-dropping mountain views ends here. Let your remote-working friends know that there are plenty of places to work from (mountain) home—the crew can stay creatively inspired while wrapping up any important emails at the multipurpose workstation/breakfast bar before embarking on a day exploring the park. Beyond a bevy of lounging spots, the crown jewel of this townhouse is the oversized patio. Shift from the outdoor couch to the high-top table as your group grills up a tasty dinner to cap off your day.
Bed & bath: 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths
Top amenities: Shared playroom with foosball and pool table, plush pillows, snow-capped mountain views, room-darkening shades
Nearby attractions: Nakiska Ski Area, Ha Ling Peak, Mount Norquay, Rocky Mountain Bagel Co
A sunny and spacious townhouse with a log cabin feel awaits you in Harvie Heights, just minutes away from Canmore and the national park. Take a seat on a funky footstool beneath your bedroom window to admire the mountain views that consume both the background and foreground of this conveniently located building. The accommodation features a communal area with classics like foosball and pool tables, along with other games, making it ideal for a cozy group ski trip filled with plenty of things to do for friends or family.
Bed & bath: 5 bedrooms, 1.5 baths
Top amenities: Freestanding spacious bathtub, floor-to-ceiling windows, heated floors, outdoor heater
Nearby attractions: Hundreds of acres of remote wilderness trails, Banff, Calgary, Canmore
Around an hour away from Banff National Park stands this striking ranch steeped in history. Originally built in 1889, this remote wonder is poised on a ridge that features Calgary views to the east and mountain and valley views to the west. Besides boasting vast on-property forest trails inhabited by abundant wildlife, the stunning stay has been remodeled into a geometric getaway, with open hexagonal spaces that spill into each other. From the heated floors of the kitchen and dining room to the pebble-floored primary bathroom with a freestanding tub, this property is unique—and views of the wild surroundings are everywhere. There is room for the whole family and then some between the main home and the guest house, connected by a covered patio. Bring everyone together by the firepit to share stories while seated on the handmade wooden furniture beneath the breezeway after a day of exploring.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
