3 Days in Banff: The Ultimate Must-Do Guide for First-Timers

Rise and shine! As you drive from Calgary into Banff, you’ll feel the shift almost immediately—the skyline turns into jagged peaks, and the air feels cooler and cleaner.

Before you even reach Banff, consider a quick stop in Canmore for coffee. I recommend Eclipse Coffee Roasters. It’s another, smaller mountain town with a slower pace and great cafés—a nice transition into vacation mode.

Once in Banff, head straight to the Banff Gondola (Sulphur Mountain). Going up the mountains early in the morning means clearer skies. Walk the summit boardwalk to instantly see the scale of the Rockies.

After riding up the gondola, head back down to Banff Avenue, the main street framed by mountains at every turn. Although this tends to be a touristy strip, it is the heartbeat of town.

Grab some lunch! I recommend Farm & Fire for some fresh bowls.

In the afternoon, soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs. This is a must-do on your first day—relaxing in warm mineral water while staring at mountain peaks is one of the best ways to settle in town.

For dinner, I recommend LUPO for some fresh pasta, pizza, and wine to cap off the night!

Start early—today is about the postcard views that define the Canadian Rockies.

Your early morning will be heading to Lake Louise. Getting here requires reserving a Parks Canada shuttle or private bus, so plan ahead! The surreal turquoise water against Victoria Glacier feels almost unreal.

Walk the lakeshore or hike to Lake Agnes Tea House for some fresh tea. Or, feel free to rent a canoe or kayak at the boathouse and paddle up and down the lake for a closer look at the views.

Next is Moraine Lake (summer months only). The deep-blue lake surrounded by the Valley of the Ten Peaks is one of the most photographed places in the country—and it lives up to the hype. I personally recommend waking up early and catching the sunrise above the mountains. This place can get super crowded in the summer, so come early!

Drive back along the Bow Valley Parkway instead of the main highway for a more scenic return and possible sighting of some wild animals.

For dinner, I recommend the Three Bears Brewery. They have a great patio and house-brewed beer.

Why this day is a must: These lakes are the visual icons of Banff National Park—seeing the color in person is unforgettable.

Insider tip: Reserve Parks Canada shuttles ahead of time—personal vehicle parking is very limited.

After two big scenic days, today is about exploring Banff’s waterfalls and rivers.

In the morning, hike Johnston Canyon. Getting here in the morning allows for a more peaceful stroll. The waterfalls and canyon walls make this one of the most accessible and beginner-friendly hikes in the park.

Afterward, visit Bow Falls and Surprise Corner Viewpoint, where the Fairmont Banff Springs looks like a castle tucked into the forest.

For a coffee break, try out Whitebark Café! It’s a local favorite.

Spend the afternoon walking along the Bow River Trail.

If you’re looking for more activities, set sail on the Lake Minnewanka Cruise. It’s a guided cruise only available in the summer, and it’s a unique way to experience more views of Banff National Park.

For dinner, I recommend Bluebird Woodfired Steakhouse for something a little more special! Or, try out Hello Sunshine for some sushi and late-night karaoke.