places to visit banff scotland

Top Things to Do in Banff, Aberdeenshire - Banff Must-See Attractions

Things to do in banff, tours near banff.

Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen

North East Coastal Trail Small Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour

Loch Ness and the Highlands Small-Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Aberdeenshire Private Half Day Castle & Historic Building Tour

Coastal Villages of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Scotland Tour

Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm)

Peterhead Prison Museum Ticket

Top attractions in banff.

Other Top Attractions around Banff

What travellers are saying

• Sandend Beach
• Museum of Banff
• Bridge of Alvah
• The Old School - Boyndie Visitor Centre
• Banff Harbour
• Inverboyndie Beach
• River Deveron
• Suds Surf School

THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Banff

Things to do in banff, tours near banff.

Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen

North East Coastal Trail Small Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour

Loch Ness and the Highlands Small-Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Aberdeenshire Private Half Day Castle & Historic Building Tour

Coastal Villages of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Scotland Tour

Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm)

Peterhead Prison Museum Ticket

Top attractions in banff.

Other Top Attractions around Banff

What travellers are saying

• Sandend Beach
• Museum of Banff
• Bridge of Alvah
• The Old School - Boyndie Visitor Centre
• Banff Harbour
• Inverboyndie Beach
• River Deveron
• Suds Surf School

• Local Businesses
• Content Hub
• Business Events
• Travel Trade

Think road trips with coastal views, walking tours taking in iconic city centre sites, incredible cycling paths that run through Royal Deeside - there’s a route with your name on it.

Great Outdoors

Venture out in the crisp and clear fresh air with views for miles across great estates and heathery moors.

Adventure Activities

From mountain bike trails and Munro Bagging, to paddleboarding and skiing, find your outdoor adventure in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

Culture & Arts

Embrace and discover Scottish culture in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire. Join us as we celebrate ancient traditions and spark new ones.

History & Heritage

Ancient sites and symbols, mysterious standing stones, towering granite walls and legendary castles mark Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire as a heartland of Scottish history.

The panoramic views and elemental power of our courses can take a golfer’s breath away. We are home to some of the world's most famous and challenging golf courses.

Food & Drink

Full-flavoured, hearty and comforting world-famous Aberdeen Angus beef, seafood and whisky. And, as the home of Brewdog, leading the way in the craft beer revolution.

Aberdeen city break

• What's On

Foodie Experiences

Become a master chocolatier or take a butchery class - Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire is well served for foodies.

Farm Experiences

Surrounded by vast countryside, Aberdeenshire is home to a wealth of farming, agricultural and foodie experiences.

Foodie Events

Get a taste for Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire with the fantastic foodie events and festivals.

Independents

Find our best local produce in quaint deli cafes, traditional pubs and stylish Michelin Guide restaurants across the region

Michelin Guide

No matter where you stay in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire a Michelin worthy establishment is never too far away.

VisitScotland's 'Taste Our Best'

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire have long been serving up some of Scotland’s most premium local produce creating a name for itself as an iconic food destination.

From the Turf

Find a restaurant in Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire serving world-class Aberdeen-Angus beef, venison and local wild game.

From the Surf

With our coastal location you can enjoy some of the freshest fish and seafood in the world. Find and book a restaurant in Aberdeen or Aberdeenshire.

Vegan & Vegetarian

Whatever your reason, if you’re looking for vegetarian or vegan food, we’ve got you covered.

Discover the “The Secret Malts of Aberdeenshire”, produced by distilleries dating from the 18th and 19th centuries

Aberdeenshire is leading the craft beer revolution. Here you'll find Brewdog's brewery and flagship bar, and many other bars serving up their very own delicious beers.

Bars & Nightlife

Enjoy stylish bars, traditional Scottish pubs and vibrant nightlife in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

Sweet Treats

Satisfy your sweet tooth with stylish afternoon teas, famous ice cream parlours and freshly baked cakes & local delicacies

Grab and Go

If time's against you, try one of these many takeaway options for a hearty and healthy meal on the move.

Sunday Roast

Celebrate the Sunday Roast tradition with your family and friends at a selection of our cafes, restaurants and bistros.

Breakfast & Brunch

Kick start your day with a locally produced breakfast or brunch. It’s the most important meal of the day, after all!

Enjoy a lunch with a view, watch the world go by in a quaint café, or relax alfresco in one of our award winning parks or gardens

Evening Meal

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are well known for rich local produce with restaurants serving up fresh seafood, Aberdeen Angus Beef and wild game

Towns + Villages

Explore Aberdeenshire, which is made up of some of Scotland’s most picturesque and welcoming towns and villages

• Accommodation in Aberdeen & Aberdeenshire

Stay in quirky coastal carriages, welcoming B&Bs, and chic boutique hotels. We have something to suit all tastes and budgets

• Getting Here

Aberdeen is well connected globally with its own international airport, railway station, ferry terminal and bus station

• Cruise Guests - Welcome to Aberdeen

• Getting Around

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire can be easily explored by most modes of transport

• Tour Guides & Guided Tours

• Suggested Itineraries

Check out our suggested itineraries and make the most of your trip to Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.

• Suggested Maps

• Touring Routes and Trails

• Deals & Offers

• Equipment Hire

• Shopping & Souvenirs

Fine examples of Georgian architecture have attracted visitors to this area of Scotland for centuries, from the Scots poet Robert Burns to, more recently, actor Timothy Spall, star of the Harry Potter films

In this section

• Aberchirder
• Fraserburgh
• Gardenstown
• Laurencekirk

Show more +

Plan Your Trip to Banff: Discover Historic Charms and Natural Beauty

Explore banff, a town steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, attracting visitors from near and far..

Experience the charm of Banff's Georgian architecture, reminiscent of miniature Edinburgh. Visit iconic landmarks such as Banff Castle and 1 High Shore , showcasing the town's historic heyday.

Don't miss Duff House , a grand mansion built in 1740 by William Adam, now home to a prestigious art collection from the National Galleries of Scotland .

Explore Banff's rich heritage at the Banff Museum , where you can discover the town's former glory as a centre of trade, weaving, and silver-making.

Embark on scenic walks, from the picturesque fishing village of Scotstown to the stunning sandy beaches of Banff Links , offering opportunities to spot dolphins and enjoy water activities like fishing and paddleboarding.

Discover the beauty of Banff with Doorstep Explorers , a community project featuring over 50 walking routes curated by the pupils of Banff Academy, showcasing the town's unique culture, heritage, and outdoors.

Enhance your trip with the 'Love Banff and Macduff' app , providing insights into the towns' fascinating history and surrounding landmarks.

Start planning your adventure to Banff today and uncover the hidden treasures of this historic Scottish town.

Getting There

Head north from Aberdeen by car via the A947. There is available bus route operated by Stagecoach.

Nearby is Gardenstown , Portsoy and Pennan .

Plan your trip in Banff

• Eat + drink
• Where to stay

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Banff

Things to do in banff, tours near banff.

Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen

North East Coastal Trail Small Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour

Loch Ness and the Highlands Small-Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Aberdeenshire Private Half Day Castle & Historic Building Tour

Coastal Villages of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Scotland Tour

Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm)

Peterhead Prison Museum Ticket

Top attractions in banff.

Other Top Attractions around Banff

What travellers are saying

• Sandend Beach
• Museum of Banff
• Bridge of Alvah
• The Old School - Boyndie Visitor Centre
• Banff Harbour
• Inverboyndie Beach
• River Deveron
• Suds Surf School

Top Things to Do in Banff, Aberdeenshire

Places to visit in banff, tours near banff.

Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen

North East Coastal Trail Small Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour

Loch Ness and the Highlands Small-Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Aberdeenshire Private Half Day Castle & Historic Building Tour

Coastal Villages of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Scotland Tour

Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm)

Peterhead Prison Museum Ticket

Top attractions in banff.

Other Top Attractions around Banff

What travellers are saying

• Sandend Beach
• Museum of Banff
• Bridge of Alvah
• The Old School - Boyndie Visitor Centre
• Banff Harbour
• Inverboyndie Beach
• River Deveron
• Suds Surf School

Banff Heritage Trail Visitor Guide

Take a walk through the historic harbour town of Banff in Grampian with this heritage trail which leads you through the historic town centre as well as along the coastline and the harbour. There’s a huge amount of history in this wee town including a pre-reformation market cross, a tollbooth, the gorgeous 18th-century Duff House, and of course, the lovely harbour which now mainly serves leisure craft.

Banff, a charming town in Scotland, is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery, historic architecture, and cultural heritage. Nestled by the Moray Firth, it boasts of a picturesque harbour, unique local shops, and the impressive Duff House, a Georgian estate turned art gallery. Banff offers a tranquil retreat for nature and history enthusiasts alike.

The town of Banff is situated on Banff Bay in the northern part of Aberdeenshire. There’s a huge amount of history in this town including a pre-reformation market cross, a tollbooth, the attractive 18th-century Duff House , and a fishing harbour which is still in constant use by fishing boats as well as leisure craft.

Although the boom years of the herring trade are over there’s still a thriving fishing community alive and well in Banff with lobster creel boats sailing in and out of the harbour throughout the day.

For tourists who’d like to see the highlights of this pretty wee town, the Banff Heritage Trail is worth following as there are cafés offering refreshments near each historic site and the views across Banff Harbour are worth the journey alone. The trail isn’t particularly long, but it’s full of history and you’ll find several points of interest along the way.

The Highlights

1: The trail is a great way to explore Banff and the surrounding coastline. If you’d like to explore the area further, there’s a picturesque nature reserve a few miles east at RSPB Troup Head.

2: Banff has lots of cafés and restaurants on the high street and the beachfront has a good pathway with accessible car parking.

3: Banff is a lovely coastal town but there are lots of other quaint villages nearby including Portsoy and Cullen .

Visiting Tips

1: Banff town centre is close to Duff House so it’s easy to combine both attractions in one day.

2: The coastline in this part of Scotland is worth a day trip even if you don’t fancy walking the Banff Heritage Trail. Head to the seaward side of the town, park up and walk west towards the lengthy stretch of golden sand at Inverboyndie Beach.

3: The next biggest town is Elgin which is a 45-minute drive west on the A98. Elgin has an impressive cathedral so read the Guide to Elgin Cathedral before heading there.

Tourist Information

There’s plenty to see in this wee town as you follow the heritage trail including the community-run Banff Museum and the quaint harbour as well as a couple of first-class golf courses. The town’s trail offers a nice walk, but to be honest, the Banff Heritage Trail is quite short so you’ll complete it in around one hour. On the plus side, that gives you more time to explore the magnificent Duff House that’s located on the outskirts of Banff.

If you can, try to visit Banff on a sunny day and take a walk from Scotstown – which has a few quaint fisherman’s cottages – to the golden sand beach at Banff Links. This is a lovely walk that nicely complements the Banff Heritage Trail so you’ll get to see both the countryside and urban parts of the town in just a couple of hours.

Another nice attraction in the town is the community-run Banff Museum which showcases a collection of memorabilia from the town’s past. While Banff is known for its fishing in modern times it was once famous as a trading centre for soap makers and weavers and it had some of the most talented silversmiths in the country.

You can see some fine examples of this long-vanished silver industry at the Banff Museum where they exhibit some of the oldest surviving silver teapots in Scotland. If you have the time I recommend visiting the museum and supporting the work of the volunteers who work there.

Walking Route

This 2-mile walking route should only take around one hour to complete.

Easy. The Banff Heritage Trail is perfect for a nice stroll and anyone of any fitness level should be able to complete it without any problems. The walk is comprised of well-constructed urban pavements so it’s accessible at all times of the year.

Starting from Telford View at the northern end of the town, follow the road south as it hugs the shoreline past the marina. This is a great place to stop and take a photo of the fishing boats before continuing south to the junction of the B9142. Turn west and then take the road north onto High Shore Road.

There are two points of interest to take a look at here. The first is the medieval Kirkyard of Banff, and the second is Old St. Mary’s Church a little further on. After viewing both sites double back to the B9142 and take the Back Path road onto Castle Street.

The majority of the rest of the trail runs through the town centre on this road, but the next point of interest to view is the Museum of Banff which houses a fascinating exhibition about the history of the town. Further on you’ll see the old townhouses of the High Street with their distinctive red and oatmeal-coloured paintwork as well as traditional stone buildings like the early 18th-century Old Brewery building which is remarkably well-preserved.

Heading back in the direction of the marina you’ll arrive at the junction of Clunie Street. Follow this road west, then turn north up Fife Street and east along Battery Green. Points to note in this section are Clunie Street where you’ll see the old Chalmers Hospital and Fife Street where you’ll walk past the old fishing cottages. Battery Green, meanwhile, was once the location of 18th-century cannons that were installed due to the threat of French invasion during the Napoleonic Wars.

The very last section of the Banff Heritage Trail will lead you back to your starting point at the northern spit of the harbour.

Things to Do Nearby

Duff House . Banff AB45 3SX. 11-minute walk. A grand Georgian country house set in magnificently manicured grounds. The house is under the management of Historic Environment Scotland and also the National Galleries of Scotland which look after the extensive collection of portraits that are on display. Visitors can explore the house and grounds on a self-guided tour.

Portsoy Harbour . Shore St, Portsoy, Banff AB45 2RX. 11-minute drive. A small but historically significant harbour that was originally built to service the export of marble which Portsoy became famous for in the 1700s. Today, the harbour is a popular recreation spot and the location of a major annual sailboat festival.

Macduff Marine Aquarium . 11 High Shore, Macduff AB44 1SL. 5-minute drive. An aquarium that features a collection of different marine habitats including deep sea, shallow water and coastal. There is also a kelp reef exhibit which is the only one of its kind in Britain.

Museum of Banff . High St, Banff AB45 1AE. 5-minute drive. Founded in 1828, Banff Museum is one of the oldest museums in Scotland. There is a large collection of silverware on display as well as exhibits that inform visitors about the history of the town.

Boyndie Bay . Banff AB45 2JJ. 5-minute drive. A sweeping bay that is very popular due to Inverboyndie beach which is regarded as one of the best surfing beaches in north-east Scotland. There are coastal footpaths in both directions and dolphins are frequently seen in the bay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does banff come under aberdeenshire.

The historic town of Banff is part of the Banff and Buchan area situated in the county of Aberdeenshire. Address: Aberdeenshire, AB45

Directions map: Google Maps

Is Banff Scotland nice?

Banff is a pretty wee town located in a region of Scotland that has few tourists compared to many parts of the country, leading to it being an ideal place to escape from Scotland’s summer crowds.

There is a long golden sand beach at Boyndie Bay to the north and lots of pleasant walks along the coastline in both directions. The town centre has lots of coffee shops, there is a golf course and a museum, and there is the Banff Heritage Trail which takes visitors on a circuit to view the town’s most historic sites.

What does Banff mean in Gaelic?

The origin of the name Banff is unknown. Banff is ‘Banbh’ in Gaelic, which translates to ‘suckling piglet’. It has been theorized that the name originates from ‘bean-naobh’ which is Gaelic for ‘holy woman’.

What visitor facilities are there at Banff?

Banff town centre has public toilets, restaurants, pubs, cafés, gift shops and car parking. Visit the official website for updated information on available facilities.

Related Posts

Fascinating Facts About Aberdeen

Braemar Visitor Guide

Dunnottar Castle Visitor Guide

Cullen Visitor Guide

Portsoy Visitor Guide

Craig Neil is the author, photographer, admin, and pretty much everything else behind Out About Scotland. He lives near Edinburgh and spends his free time exploring Scotland and writing about his experiences. Follow him on Pinterest , Facebook , and YouTube .

Top Things to Do in Banff

Things to do in banff, tours near banff.

Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen

North East Coastal Trail Small Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour

Loch Ness and the Highlands Small-Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Aberdeenshire Private Half Day Castle & Historic Building Tour

Coastal Villages of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Scotland Tour

Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm)

Peterhead Prison Museum Ticket

Top attractions in banff.

Other Top Attractions around Banff

What travellers are saying

• Sandend Beach
• Museum of Banff
• Bridge of Alvah
• The Old School - Boyndie Visitor Centre
• Banff Harbour
• Inverboyndie Beach
• River Deveron
• Suds Surf School

The ULTIMATE Banff Itinerary You Should Follow (2024)

Planning a trip to Banff and need a helpful Banff itinerary? Then you are in for a trip of a lifetime, because Banff National Park is truly one of the most spectacular places in the entire world. The first time we visited Banff, we knew it was something special. It was so special that we decided to move to Alberta a few years ago and haven’t looked back.

If you’re planning to visit Banff for one, two, three days, or longer than a week, you’ll still need to have a general plan so you can see as much as you would like in your time here. No matter how many days you have here, it still won’t be enough to uncover the beauty of this place, but you’ll at least get to the highlights.

Here is the best Banff itinerary, including things to do, Banff travel tips, a packing list, car rental tips, and the best time to visit Banff . This itinerary is primarily summer-focused, but you can also use it for winter trips and just exclude any summer activities like canoeing and paddleboarding from your travel plans.

Banff Itinerary – Day 1

Welcome to Banff National Park, one of the most beautiful places in the world! I know you’re on vacation, and you probably want to sleep a bit, but trust me, it’s worth it to get up and make the most out of your time in Banff because there is a lot to see and do! Let’s get into day one on your Banff itinerary.

• Morning at Moraine Lake
• Canoe on Lake Louise

Hike Around Lake Louise

• Dinner at The Fairmont

Spend the Morning At Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is the most popular thing to do in Banff and arguably the most famous sight to see in Canada. This iconic lake is a picturesque picture of Canada (seriously, just Google image “Canada” and see what comes up). With the ten peaks rising high over the glacier waters, Moraine Lake is certainly a Banff attraction to see.

Moraine Lake is about an hour’s drive away from the Town of Banff and only twenty minutes further than Lake Louise. With its popularity and millions of Instagram location tags, you used to have to arrive well before 6 am to grab a parking spot between June and September.

However, as of 2023, Parks Canada has restricted personal vehicles at Moraine Lake. So now the only way to get to Moraine Lake is with the Park & Ride Shuttle, staying at the Moraine Lake Lodge , Roam Transit Bus, or Private tour/shuttle like the Moraine Lake Bus Company or Radventures Earlybird , a disabled tag, or to bike/hike in. Though there are still ways to see sunrise at Moraine Lake .

We think this is a great choice, as Moraine Lake was, quite frankly, loved to death. Members of our private Facebook group have noted that they were getting to Moraine Lake as early as 3-4am in 2022 to ensure a spot, every year it seemed to be that you had to get to Moraine Lake earlier and earlier, and it was all becoming a bit too much.

We break down exactly how to get to Moraine Lake in our latest update.

No matter how you get to Moraine Lake, we recommend enjoying the scenery, but also making time to enjoy a Moraine Lake hike , or go canoeing in paradise.

Just note that if you think you’ll make your visit to Moraine Lake quieter and easier by visiting in the off-season, you may want to think again. Moraine Lake Road closes between (approximately) October 10 and June 1st. The road gets covered in snow, and the avalanche risk is high.

Canoe On Lake Louise

After your visit to Moraine Lake, you’ll probably want to head to Lake Louise. Lake Louise is the other iconic lake that millions from around the world flock to Banff to see, it should be on everyone’s Banff itinerary. It is certainly a highlight of any trip to Canada.

Lake Louise, while not AS scenic as Moraine Lake, is still pretty darn mesmerizing. This glacier-fed lake sparkles bright turquoise blue under the sun and the mountains rising up around it providing the perfect backdrop for any photo. If you’re already visiting Moraine Lake for the day, you might as well get to Lake Louise, too, as it’s just a short drive away and is easily connected via the Lake Connector Shuttle. Also, nearly every Moraine Lake tour also runs to Lake Louise right after Moraine Lake.

Keep in mind that the lake is frozen solid from late October to early June. Though, unlike Moraine Lake, Lake Louise is accessible year-round.

More Guides to Visiting Lake Louise

• When is the Best Time to Visit Lake Louise?
• Lake Louise Parking: Everything You Need to Know
• All You Need to Know About The Lake Louise Shuttle
• Lake Louise Canoe Rental: 10 Tips You Need to Know

Stay in Lake Louise!

Are you wondering where the best place to stay in Lake Louise is? There are multiple hotels and cabins in the area, but we have our favorites that we recommend to readers!

• Fairmont Chateau: The only hotel on Lake Louise. It’s the most luxurious, but also the most expensive place to stay in the park. If you want primo access to Lake Louise, you’ll have to splurge and spend a night here.
• Paradise Lodge : Just a walk away from Lake Louise, these are charming Lake Louise cabins that you can’t help but love. They are cheaper than the Fairmont, but are still very close to Lake Louise.
• Baker Creek Mountain Resort : Now these cabins are not that close to Lake Louise, they are about a 15 minute drive from Lake Louise on the Bow Valley Parkway. However, if you are seeking seclusion and the feeling of being in the Canadian wilderness this is your place.

If you want to go for a hike while visiting Lake Louise (and I highly suggest you do), numerous hikes range in difficulty, leaving right from Lake Louise. The most popular and easiest hike is to the Lake Agnes Tea House . This is an easy hike that can be done in under two hours and is iconic in Banff. However, be warned, its ease and beauty make it a busy one! To escape the crowds (and get better views), keep climbing to the Big or Little Beehive.

Another longer option is Devil’s Thumb, but this should be attempted by seasoned hikers. Other hikes include Fairview Lookout, Plain of Six Glaciers , and Mount St. Piran.

Dinner and Stay at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is the most iconic hotel in Banff National Park. It’s easily one of the best places to stay in all of Alberta, and it overlooks the beautiful lake. If you book early enough and score yourself a room here in the summer, enjoy it!

After your day enjoying Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, you can now relax and have dinner at the Chateau and enjoy a night in the Fairmont. Ensure you take advantage of the location and catch the stars at night around the lake without the daytime crowds! Keep in mind that reservations are highly recommended for any Lake Louise restaurant at the Chateau.

Drive the Icefields Parkway

• Stand Up Paddleboard on Bow Lake

Take in the Views at Peyto Lake

Have lunch at athabasca glacier.

• Columbia Skywalk
• Drive on to Jasper

Wake up early at Lake Louise and enjoy sunrise, have a coffee with views, and then get ready to head out for a road trip on the Icefields Parkway. The Icefields Parkway is one of the most beautiful road trips you can take in the entire world.

The Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 North) connects Lake Louise with Jasper in Jasper National Park. The drive itself is stunning, but there are so many pull-offs along the way. Bow Lake, Peyto Lake , and Herbert Lake are just to name a few. I won’t break down every single stop to make here, as there are so many. Instead, I’ve created a full Icefields Parkway guide.

Swing By Bow Lake

You can’t miss Bow Lake on your way up the Icefields Parkway. It’s a huge lake, and you’ll see many people stopped here admiring the view.

This is one of the best places to enjoy the water if you have a stand-up paddleboard, canoe, or kayak. Note that there is no where to rent these watercrafts, so you’ll either have to have your own or rent one for your trip to Banff if you have a rental car. Radventures offers daily stand up paddleboard rentals. Or if you think you would like to paddle on all the lakes in the Rockies on your trip, we recommend buying a stand up paddleboard.

There are also some phenomenal hikes and scrambles around Bow Lake if you have lots of time. The easiest and quickest is the hike to Bow Glacier Falls, but longer day hikes we love are Helen Lake, The Onion or Mount Jimmy Simpson .

Peyto Lake (PEE-toh) is a glacier-fed lake in Banff National Park. This is probably the third most popular lake to visit in Banff, after Louise and Moraine. The reason is its unique shape and absolutely mind-blowingly blue water.

Peyto Lake is easily accessible from the Icefields Parkway. To get a great view, all you have to do is park and hike up an easy 10-minute path to the viewpoint. It’s the perfect place to come and enjoy the stellar Banff National Park views in both winter and summer, and there is a nice viewing platform to see the lake.

Peyto Lake is just past Bow Lake on your left hand side when driving from Lake Louise to Jasper. It’s a busy stop, so if you want to avoid the crowds, we recommend getting an early start before 8am in the summer.

As you continue driving the Icefields Parkway, you’ll take in all the incredible views ahead of you. There are plenty of sights, but I won’t list them all here as I encourage you to check out our step by step guide to the Icefields Parkway so you can determine where you want to stop.

Around the 130 km mark (from Lake Louise), you’ll get to the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre. It’s here you can step inside, use the restrooms, have lunch, and embark on an excursion.

Athabasca Glacier is a popular place to stop along the Icefields Parkway. You can see Mount Athabasca here and even walk on Athabasca Glacier or enjoy the Ice Explorer vehicle experience if that interests you!

Columbia Icefield Skywalk

If you’re already at Athabasca Glacier, you may as well enjoy an experience just a couple of kilometers down the road to the Glacier Skywalk . Here, you can step out on a cliff-edge walk, see the glaciers around you, and enjoy views of the Sunwapta Valley.

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk has views of wildlife, waterfalls, and fossils. It’s a fun, family-friendly thing to do in Banff. However, in my opinion, you can get the same experience for free by going on a beautiful hike in Banff National Park.

If you’re an avid outdoor person and hiker, the Skywalk can feel like a lame way to waste money. However, if you have never experienced walking on glass and descending down a valley floor, it may be an exhilarating experience.

*Note that you must pre purchase tickets for this experience. There is no parking along the Icefields Parkway, and you must park at the Discovery Center, check in there, and be shuttled to the Skywalk. Skywalk tickets are included in all Ice Explorer tours.

Continue to Jasper

After Athabasca, you have the option to stay the night on the Icefields Parkway at the Glacier View Lodge , or you can push on to Jasper. As you leave, you’ll exit Banff National Park and enter Jasper National Park.

The views continue, though, and the drive is just as stunning. A few of the best stops ahead of you include Tangle Creek Falls, Athabasca Falls, Sunwapta Falls , and Horseshoe Lake. After visiting, continue on to Jasper Town and relax here for the night.

• Explore Downtown Jasper
• Jasper SkyTram

Maligne Canyon

• Spirit Island
• Athabasca Falls
• Overnight in Jasper or Camp Along the Way

Jasper Town

Wake up in downtown Jasper after staying at a cute Jasper cabin and have a coffee and baked treat at Bear’s Paw Bakery or have a delicious breakfast in Jasper at Sunhouse Cafe. Take a stroll around town and enjoy the fresh mountain air. After your morning you’re going to want to hop in the car and get ready for another beautiful road trip. Set the GPS for Maligne Lake and start driving down Maligne Lake Road.

Maligne Canyon is one of the things to do in Jasper that will keep you occupied and fulfilled, regardless of the season you visit. Carved slowly out of limestone over the years by the rushing waters within, the deep canyon walls reach nearly 200 feet in places, making it one of the most dramatic sights in Jasper National Park.

The canyon area is a hot hiking spot when the ice thaws in late spring and summer due to its natural beauty and the sheer number of amazing and unique geological features you’ll find. Guided tours are available, but you can also visit on your own, though visiting in the winter without a guide isn’t recommended for those not equipped for Canadian winters, as you’ll need special cleated or spiked boots to walk on the ice safely.

Maligne Lake and Spirit Island

A great place to visit in Jasper is Spirit Island in Maligne Lake . As you may have guessed by its name, Spirit Island is a serene and revered place, especially for the area’s indigenous people. Due to its sacredness, the island is off-limits, but boat tours are available, which will take you close enough to appreciate its splendor. The cruises run daily and often in the summer. The standard cruise allows for 15 minutes near Spirit Island, but Pursuit sells Premium Cruises which allow for 30 minutes. We recommend booking the Maligne Lake cruise in advance, as it’s a very popular thing to do in the summer and cruises do sell out.

Want to stay at Spirit Island longer? For those who need a little more exertion and adventure to view the island by kayak or canoe, this option is only for the physically fit because the roundtrip is difficult to complete in a day. There are campsites nearby where you can book an overnight spot, breaking the trip into a day and a half and giving you a wonderful night in the wilderness.

Drive Back to Jasper

After your time at Maligne Lake, it’s time to get in the car again and drive back to Jasper on the same road you came. You’ll do this on Maligne Lake Road, one of Canada’s most gorgeous roads. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, we almost always see moose on this road.

If you missed a stop at Medicine Lake, now is your time to stop and see it. Medicine Lake is part of the Maligne Valley watershed and is nearly 7 km (4.3 mi) long. In the summer, it looks like a normal Canadian lake, but it’s actually called the disappearing lake, as in the winter, the water completely disappears.

Spend an Evening Up the Jasper SkyTram

Going up the Jasper SkyTram is one of the best ways to end your day in Jasper. It’s here you can enjoy unparalleled views and on a clear day, you can even see Mount Robson (the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies) in the distance.

Once you load onto the Jasper Gondola, you’ll begin the thrilling ride up to the Summit Station at 2,263 meters (7,425 ft). The two cozy trams hold 20-24 people and bring you up 2,263 meters in 10-minutes, On the way up, the views become expansive as you leave the tree line and enter the alpine. Once at the top, we recommend a quick hike up to Whistlers Summit via the Whistlers Summit Trail.

Option: Stay Longer in Jasper, or Drive Back to Banff Via the Icefields Parkway

We recommend staying at least three days in Jasper, as there is so much to do and we crammed a lot into the day above. Some even prefer Jasper over Banff! With more time in Jasper, you can enjoy a canoe on Pyramid Lake, hike the Valley of Five Lakes Trail , or have lunch on Lac Beauvert. However, if you are short on time, you can drive back to Banff either in the evening or in the morning!

As mentioned, this is an itinerary to give you ideas and not set in stone. The perfect itinerary depends on your timeline. If you plan to spend more time in Jasper, you can follow our ultimate Jasper itinerary .

If you can give more time to Jasper National Park, here are some ideas for activities to keep you entertained.

• Stunning Jasper Hikes You Shouldn’t Miss
• Awesome Things To Do in Jasper
• Jasper Lakes Well Worth a Visit
• How to Hike the Berg Lake Trail in Mount Robson Provincial Park

Overnight in the Town of Banff

After your time in Jasper, it’s time to head back to Banff the same way you can. Stop at any sights along the Icefields Parkway that you missed the first time around. We’ll start the next day as if you’ve woken up in Banff!

Banff Itinerary – Day 4

• Sunrise on Tunnel Mountain
• Walk Around Downtown Banff

Check Out Bow Falls

• Hike or take the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain

Catch Sunrise on Tunnel Mountain

Tunnel Mountain is right in the heart of Banff. It’s beloved by locals for its accessibility, and you can hike it year-round. It may be one of the smallest mountains in Banff National Park, but it still offers tremendous views of the surrounding valleys and Mount Rundle, especially if you wake up early at get after it at sunrise.

The hike moves slowly up the mountain through several switchbacks and offers various viewpoints out into the Bow and Spray Valleys. It’s a great Banff hike for sunrise or sunset, and it rarely disappoints. The best part is it’s only 4.5 km round trip and shouldn’t take more than one hour up. It’s also one of the easiest hikes you can do with only 266 meters of elevation gain.

Stroll Down Banff Ave

It’s hard to believe there is a town in the center of one of the most beautiful national parks on earth, but there is, and walking around Banff is a must for any visitor.

There are plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy in Banff , and the entire time you have unreal views of Cascade Mountain. But really, I just love strolling and admiring the mountain views from down low.

If visiting during Banff in the Summer, you’ll be happy to know that Banff Avenue closes a large portion of the road to vehicles. It’s pedestrian and cyclist only, so you can fully take advantage of strolling these streets. In case you’re wondering, there are plenty of Banff patios where you can enjoy a beer under the sun during this time!

Cascade Gardens

If you’re strolling around Downtown Banff in the summer you can’t miss a stop at  Cascade Gardens . It’s located at the end of Banff Avenue, nearly impossible to miss. From the garden, you get great views of Mount Rundle and Cascade. This should go without saying, but please don’t pick the flowers, apparently it happens a lot!

Bow Falls are a must-see Banff waterfall. They are only a short walk away from the town and Cascade Gardens and take you into magnificent nature. From May to November, they are typically free-flowing. However, if visiting in the winter, it’s a completely different sight.

Depending on when you see them in the winter, Bow Falls may be frozen, but we’ve been lucky and seen their beauty, half in ice and half in water – a splendid experience! There are nice walkways and viewpoints for visitors so they can view safely.

Sunset on Sulphur Mountain

One of the best places to catch the sunset in Banff is from the top of Sulphur Mountain. The Banff Gondola runs all day to take visitors up and down, making it the easiest mountaintop to catch the sunset in Banff.

If you’re up for some activity, you can also hike up Sulphur Mountain, save some money, and get your legs moving. The peak can be reached in under two hours through a path of easy but relentless switchbacks. If you want to hike up and take the gondola down, you can purchase one way tickets for half price (unfortunately it doesn’t worth the other way around).

Purchase Banff Gondola Tickets

Sunrise on Vermilion Lakes

Stand up paddleboard on two jack lake.

• Mt. Norquay Via Ferrata

Scenic Cruise Around Lake Minnewanka

Dinner and drinks in banff.

Vermilion Lakes is one of my favorite places to go to Banff for both sunrise and sunset. If you’re up for yet another early morning, make your way here with a coffee in hand. Mount Rundle, arguably the most famous mountain in the park, towers over the lake, creating an epic backdrop at any time of the year.

It’s the perfect place to come early morning and enjoy your coffee before a great breakfast in Banff or travel to sunset with a few beers. You can also take a canoe, kayak, or paddleboards out here and enjoy the water as the lakes are pretty calm and a great place for a chill ride – even for beginners!

Coffee recommendation : Whitebark. Breakfast Recommendation : Tooloulous

Just a ten-minute drive away from Vermilion Lakes is Two Jack Lake . Two Jack is one of the most photographed lakes in the Canadian Rockies due to its proximity to Banff, and its stunning Mount Rundle Views. In the summer, it’s a popular spot to come with a stand-up paddleboard or kayak. Keep in mind there is no where to rent watercraft here, so you’ll have to come with your own or rent one in Canmore or Banff at Bow Valley SUP.

One of the top things to do in Banff National Park is enjoy Lake Minnewanka. Lake Minnewanka is a glacial lake right next door to Two Jack Lake. This lake is 21 km long and 142 meters deep, making it one of the largest lakes in the Rockies. Mount Inglismaldie and Mount Aylmer towering over Lake Minnewanka are seriously impressive all year round. Oh yea, and there’s also a Canadian resort ghost town under the lake ! In the summer, it’s a busy place to hike around and go canoeing on, or you can book a scenic cruise back to Devil’s Gap!

Evening at Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon  is one of the top attractions in Banff and can attract quite a crowd in the summer. That’s why we suggest ending your day here, as visiting after 5pm provides the best chance for a crowd-free experience.

A summer hike is visceral as the roaring water reverberates through the canyon and into your chest. As a hiker, you get up close and personal with the canyon thanks to a series of suspended walkways. Along the way, hikers catch scenic glimpses of the mountains,  multiple waterfalls , and a chance to spot wildlife.

The waterfalls in the canyon are roaring come  July  as the snow melts high in the surrounding mountains. No matter the season, it’s an easy hike in Banff along a well-maintained trail suitable for all ages. If you find yourself with spare time, continue on to the Ink Pots for an extended hike.

Adventure Option: Mt. Norquay Via Ferrata

If you’re a beginner hiker but want to see what hiking in the Rockies is all about, I highly suggest the Mt. Norquay Via Ferrata . This is an assisted climbing experience up Mount Norquay. There are four different routes that vary in length and difficulty. Perfect for any visitor in Banff with many different options for families too.

The sun has set over Banff National Park. It’s time to refuel for the day at one of Banff’s many places to eat. A few of our favorites are:

• The Best Restaurants in Banff
• The Best Breweries in Banff
• Amazing Banff Patios to Enjoy this Summer

Our favorite restaurant in Banff with a great atmosphere and high-quality farm-to-table food. They have a seasonal menu and won several national awards in Canada for exceptional service.

Three Bears Brewery

Our favorite spot in Banff for pizza and beer!

Block Kitchen and Bar

A small restaurant with some of the most innovative dishes and drinks in the valley. Reservations are not accepted here and it is tiny, but if you manage to get a table you won’t be disappointed.

Nourish Bistro

This healthy cafe is the perfect lunch spot in town with reasonably priced lunch combos and coffee.

Banff Sushi

We love sushi, and we love a good deal, so Banff Sushi is a slam dunk for us. The novelty of the sushi train was definitely appreciated and brought us back to Japan as we nabbed tantalizing bites of sushi off the Canadian train engine. If you like sushi, this may be one of the best deals in Banff.

Day 6 (Head to Canmore)

Today is the day to head to the town right next to Banff—Canmore. I personally love Canmore more than Banff (and not just because I live here) because it feels less like a tourist destination and more like a place where real day-to-day operations happen.

Hike to Grassi Lakes

Explore downtown canmore.

• Walk Around Policemen’s Boardwalk
• Sunset Paddle Around The Reservoir

With clear water and mesmerizingly blue water, Grassi Lakes is remarkable and easy to reach on a short hike. Though there are other trails in the area, these are clearly marked, and great for all ages making them one of the best things to do in Canmore.

About five kilometers south of town, the lakes are easy to get to, and you may want to consider packing a few some food for a picnic, as it’s one of the most picturesque places around Canmore. Stunning views of a nearby waterfall and the town of Canmore below present plenty of photo opportunities.

Grassi Lakes is easy enough for just about anyone to complete. I would feel comfortable bringing older parents or healthy grandparents on this short hike. Be forewarned, it’s ease makes it particularly busy, and we recommend starting your hike first thing in the morning to avoid crowds.

Strolling Downtown Canmore is like strolling Downtown Banff…without the masses. Stroll Main Street and pop into the art galleries, or grab a coffee at Eclispse. We also always love running into Stonewaters for home inspo ideas!

For lunch, head downtown to one of Canmore’s many restaurants. I love sitting outside at The Tavern or Communitea as they have fun patios in the summer. They have great food and awesome drink specials. Though if you’re really looking for a good patio experience in Canmore, The Wood has the best views in Canmore. Grizzly Paw Brewery and Pub is another popular option, as it’s right on Main Street, but it’s more expensive and offers less good food, in my opinion.

If visiting in the summer, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find that, like Banff, Canmore also restricts vehicles on Main Street.

Walk the Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk

If you want to spend a quiet morning or afternoon strolling through nature, head to the Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk. The elevated walkway presents year-round opportunities without a need for waders, boots, or snowshoes. It’s accessible from downtown, and the trailhead is near the intersection of Main Street and Spring Creek Drive.

The four-kilometer Canmore trail is well marked, easy to follow, and will bring you right back to your starting point, so you won’t have to drop bread crumbs or call for a helicopter rescue.

The boardwalk’s pleasant mix of town and country is the best of both worlds, and you’ll think you’re much farther away from civilization than you really are. Don’t miss the Giant Head Statue near The Drake at the beginning or end of your walk!

Sunset Paddle Around The Rundle Forebay Reservoir

The Rundle Forebay Reservoir, or “Canmore Res,” is a local place to head in the evening and take a swim, paddleboard, or kayak and watch the sun go down over Ha Ling Peak and the Little Sister. It’s a quiet place to relax in nature and is perfect for a picnic dinner. Please make sure to clean up after yourself, every time I visit, there is trash left about carelessly.

Adventure Option: Sunset on the EEOR

East End of Rundle (EEOR) is one of the most popular hikes in Canmore . It’s a beautiful hike up that offers visitors astonishing views over Canmore, the Bow Valley, and Ha Ling Peak. Although, just because East End of Rundle (or EEOR, or “Eeyore” as locals like to call it) is close to town doesn’t mean it’s an easy climb up to the summit.

EEOR trail is a 5.8 kilometer out and back trail. It’s certainly a steep and strenuous uphill battle for almost the entire hike. There are hardly any flat parts, and the climb starts right from the car park. There is moderate exposure and some scrambling required, but nothing too scary or difficult for the average to the advanced hiker.

We are reasonably fast hikers and completed the trail in four hours with a 45-minute summit beer stop at the top and about 15 extra minutes for sunset photos. If we were really moving with no long stops, we could have done EEOR in under three hours.

The average hiker will probably be able to summit in two hours and descend in 1.5 hours. If you are slower, five hours round trip is probably a safe time to estimate. If you can get up there for sunset, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful views over Ha Ling and Whiteman’s Pond, though to get a good view like in the photo above, you only have to hike halfway to the “viewpoint.”

Not feeling EEOR? Similar hikes nearby are Ha Ling , Rimwall Summit, Reads Tower, and Windtower

Day 7 – Get Out of Banff

If you happen to have extra time in this area, then you are doing Banff the right way. We recommend you venture to neighboring Kananaskis Country or Yoho National Park and explore what these other parks have to offer.

Hike in Kananaskis Country

Head to yoho national park, sunset picnic on the smith dorrien.

Kananaskis is another Alberta Park that is just as beautiful as Banff. Located closer to Calgary, it’s a quieter area to enjoy, usually filled with more Albertans than foreigners. There are some amazing lakes to enjoy and fantastic hiking opportunities here. Keep in mind you need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass to enjoy Kananaskis, this is in addition to the Parks Canada Pass you need to visit Banff.

Yoho National Park is just past Lake Louise and close to Golden, BC. It offers fantastic sightseeing opportunities, beautiful lakes, and awesome hikes. The most famous sight in Yoho is Emerald Lake , which most visitors want to see while in the park. If you have the time and capacity, we highly recommend adding a day to explore Yoho National Park.

Some of the best things to do in Yoho are:

• Canoe on Emerald Lake
• Wapta Falls
• Hike the Iceline Trail
• Marvel at Tak Falls

The dirt road that leads up past Grassi Lakes and the Canmore Nordic Center is Smith Dorrien Trail. It’s an unpaved road that is open year-round, avalanche conditions withstanding. As you make your way up the pass between Mount Lawrence Grassi and Rundle, you’ll find some impressive views.

Once through the pass, you’ll enter Kananaskis Country, an Alberta Provincial Park. Along the drive, you pass some superb lakes and impressive mountain vistas. Keep your eyes peeled as you’ll likely spot some wildlife too; we’ve seen just about everything, such as bears, moose, elk, deer, goats, bighorn sheep, and coyotes.

How Many Days Should You Spend in Banff

This itinerary focuses on a seven day Banff trip, which is the average amount of time a visitor typically plans their trip for. That being said, we think anywhere between 5-7 days is sufficient amount of time to get a taste of what the Rockies have to offer and see the highlights, though you will 100% leave wanting to return.

When is the Best Time to Visit Banff?

High season (June-August, December-February)

Banff National Park has a high season for winter enthusiasts and those after that perfect North American summer getaway. The first is much quieter than its summer counterpart, but around the holidays, prices rise, and crowds flock to Banff. Those after a ski vacation should visit Banff in February, and ski runs become busier. During these two winter times, you’ll find higher accommodation prices.

However, that’s nothing compared to summertime in Banff. Numbers balloon between June and August, and while I would love to say that because of this, it’s not a good time to visit, I would be lying.

July and August bring about the best weather in the park. Long days and sunshine await you during the summer. The wildflowers are in full bloom, and it’s a great time for anyone looking for a summer adventure. However, the crowds can be insane, especially Downtown and at Lake Louise, Peyto Lake, and Lake Moraine.

Shoulder Season (May, September-October)

The shoulder season months are still a wonderful time to visit Banff National Park. May is still winter, and there is still snow on the ground. The glacier lakes will be frozen, but the summer crowds have not appeared, making it a great time to visit Banff.

If chasing the fall and seeing the yellow larches are your thing, you’ll want to visit for Banff in the fall in September and October. After Labor Day, the crowds start to fizzle out as the kiddies return to school and summer vacations are over. However, larch season, which starts around the third week of September brings plenty of people in. Hiking is still great, as the winter gods haven’t dumped snow yet.

Low Season (November, March, April) 

These are generally cold, cloudy, and what some may call “miserable” months. Unless, of course, you like the winter, snowboarding and skiing, ice skating, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and don’t mind a bit of mixed weather. What is the best part about this time of year? There are fewer tourists, lower prices, and plenty of snow!

Download AllTrails

If you plan to do any hiking, download AllTrails first. Alltrails gives you the latest review of a hike and all the logistical information you may need. If you pay for AllTrails Pro, you can also download offline trail maps to your phone. We use AllTrails for most hikes, and although it’s far from perfect, it gives you some ideas about the trail based on recent hiker reviews.

Consider Renting a Car

Being in North America, your options for transport are limited. Most visitors to Banff will rent a car in Calgary as this is the easiest way to get around. Renting a car in Banff ensures that you can get to where you want to go on your own schedule.

Depending on your travel season, car rentals in Calgary can be quite affordable. During the shoulder season and off season you can often get great deals on rental cars if you book far enough in advance.

It’s best to get a car with winter tires in the winter, so make sure to check with your car rental agency. If you do decide to drive from Alberta into BC, these winter tires are mandatory! You can see road conditions here , which are super helpful between November and late April.

Other Transport Options

You may not feel comfortable driving in Canada, and that’s okay! There are other options to get to and from Banff and around the town. However, they are limited, so keep that in mind. To get from YYC to Banff, the Banff Airporter is a good option and costs $152 (CAD) round trip.

Once in Banff, there is the Roam bus system to get around town. It also runs to popular sites like Lake Louise and easily gets you to Lake Louise Ski Resort and Banff Sunshine Ski Resort. If you’re booking a private or group tour, most tour operators offer pick up and drop off at your hotel in Banff or Canmore.

Dress for the Mountains

If I had a dollar for every time I saw a visitor wearing poor mountain clothes, I would have, like, $500. Come to Banff dressed for mountain weather. Here’s my Banff packing list, but in short, that means packable down jackets even in the summer.

The weather here can change at a moment’s notice, and you don’t want to be underdressed. It’s essential to pack layers and HIKING BOOTS . Yes, hiking boots or hiking shoes. If you plan to go hiking while visiting Banff, please do not show up in Converse shoes. In the winter, microspikes are also glorious on hikes and are a pretty inexpensive investment.

This Banff Itinerary is Just a Starter

This Banff itinerary by no means covers everything you can do in Banff. Heck, we have been exploring these mountains for years and always find new activities to get up to!

That being said, this entire website is packed with things you can do in the region so we encourage you to click around to get more ideas! Some popular items not mentioned but definitely worth doing (or returning for another trip) are:

• Biking or driving the Bow Valley Parkway
• Waiting for the train at Morant’s Curve
• Having a picnic at Cascade Ponds
• Venturing into Kootenay National Park for the Day
• Taking in the views from the Lake Louise Gondola
• Riding the Norquay Chairlift and have lunch at the Cliffhouse Bistro
• Biking the Legacy Trail
• Going for a Horseback Ride

Get a National Park Pass

All visitors to Banff National Park need a Parks Canada pass to recreate. The Parks Canada pass covers all national parks in Canada. This includes Jasper, Yoho, Glacier, and Kootenay National Park. Note that the Parks Canada Pass does not cover recreation in Kananaskis Provincial Park.

Parks Canada Day Pass Rates

Parks canada discovery pass fees (yearly pass), our favorite banff hotels.

Luxury – Banff Springs Hotel

Mid Range – Baker Creek Lodge

Budget – Rundlestone Lodge

Recommended Tours

• 3-Hour Horseback Ride Around Bow Valley : If you want to tackle the Rockies via horseback, this tour is a great option.
• Banff Gondola Tour : The most popular thing to do in Banff!
• Banff Hop on Hop Off Bus : See multiple sights on your own timeline, without having to worry about driving.
• Banff Ghost Walking Tour : If you want to hear a few spooky stories from the Rockies, this is a great tour.
• Ice Explorer Glacier Tour & Glacier Skywalk : Combine the two most popular things to do at Athabasca Glacier.
• Jasper Food Tour : Eat your way around Jasper!
• Moraine Lake and Lake Louise Sightseeing Tour : Don’t worry about getting yourself to the lakes on this hands off tour from Banff.
• Moraine Lake Sunrise Tour : If you want to see Moraine Lake in all her glory, prepare to wake up early and tackle the day.
• eBike and Hike to Johnston Canyon : A great way to get active on the Bow Valley Parkway and see Johnston Canyon.
• Banff Food Tour: Eat the Castle : For the foodies. Eat your way around history! Ice Explorer Glacier Tour and Glacier Skywalk Viator

This is by no means all you can do in the Canadian Rockies, but it is a Banff itinerary guide to help you get started with planning your own customized trip. If you have any other questions leave a comment or see our Canadian Rockies travel guide for more articles about photography spots, lakes, hikes, and everything else.

↓ Join the community ↓

The  Banff Blog Facebook Group  is your headquarters for Canadian Rockies travel advice and information, including hike and off-season travel information. You can also meet new adventure buddies.

Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies

• Tours (New in 2024): The Banff Blog is partnering with one of the leading tour companies in Western Canada so readers can experience the magic of the Rockies with other travelers – without having to think about a thing. See all our 2024 tour offerings here!
• Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
• Get to Banff or Canmore Without a Car : The Banff Airporter provides fantastic service connecting you from the Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Banff or Canmore.
• Get Around : We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. Or embark on an epic campervan trip. We like to compare prices on Motorhome Republic and Outdoorsy .
• Cheaper Airfare: We also use Going to watch for cheap airfare deals!
• Hop On, Hop Off : This tour is taking Banff by storm. It’s exactly what it sounds like, hop on and off a bus bound for all the best attractions at your own pace!

About Natasha

Natasha calls Canmore, Alberta home. After traveling across seven continents and 90 countries with Cameron, she settled down in the stunning Canadian Rockies. She loves to help others travel and make their planning easier. She is a winter enthusiast and loves to snowboard, ice skate, and snowshoe and enjoy all the fantastic summer opportunities in Banff like hiking, scrambling, and biking. You can find her in the mountains or enjoying a coffee by the river. Learn more on the about us page! If you have found the content on this site helpful to your trip planning please consider supporting The Banff Blog. You can say thanks directly by buying us a coffee . All support is much appreciated!

4 thoughts on “The ULTIMATE Banff Itinerary You Should Follow (2024)”

Great blog. Very helpful. Just FYI – we left Canmore at 3:10 am on Wednesday, July 20th and got to Moraine Lake lot at 4:20am. Lot was full. Was told it’s been like that every day so you may want to amend your comment above about arriving by 6am.

Thanks – this year has been worse than previous years unfortunately, which is why we try to direct those to our 2022 updating parking schedule in the post! We recommend trying to take the shuttle if possible! Though we are aware you will miss sunrise.

Hey guys, This is awesome info and I took most of the idea for my upcoming Sept 2024 itinerary from your blog. Any suggestions on sunrise/sunset spots in Jasper, Banff (other than Louise & Moraine) and Yoho. We are planning 2 nights in Field/Golden, 2 nights in Jasper and 3 nights in Banff area. Once again, thanks a lot this wonderful blog.

Hello! Maybe this page will help you https://thebanffblog.com/banff-photography/ Enjoy your trip!

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Top 26 Things to Do in Banff for Nature Lovers, Foodies, and History Buffs

Escape to the natural beauty and adventure of Banff, a historic town in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. With picturesque alpine lakes, scenic hiking trails, and a host of outdoor activities, Banff offers a wealth of experiences for visitors.

Plenty to Do, Inside and Out

Banff offers plenty of things to do indoors as well. It can be challenging to decide what to do and see, but this list is here to help. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or prefer to see amazing views from a fine dining restaurant, we’ve got you covered with a list of the best things to do in Banff, including must-visit sights, hidden gems, and seasonal activities.

1. Enjoy an Open Top Tour

Exploring Banff’s stunning natural scenery and attractions is made easy with Open Top Tours. These sightseeing tours provide visitors with a unique and exciting way to see Banff from an open-top bus. Sit back and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies, crystal clear lakes, and rugged terrain as you learn about Banff’s rich history and culture. With a variety of tour options available, including visits to iconic landmarks like Lake Louise and the Banff Gondola, Open Top Tours is a great way to experience Banff’s natural beauty and top attractions all in one go.

2. Explore Banff Avenue

Wander along Banff Avenue, the lively main street of Banff, where you’ll find many charming boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. Explore popular shops such as The Tin Box or The Bear and the Butterfly, or grab a bite to eat at Good Earth Coffee House.

3. Visit Lake Louise

Just a short 40-minute drive from Banff, Lake Louise is a stunning alpine lake surrounded by majestic mountains. Stroll along the shoreline, hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers, or rent a canoe and paddle across the Instragram-famous turquoise waters.

4. Take a Gondola Ride

Hop on the Banff Gondola and ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain. Take in the breathtaking panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies. Explore the boardwalk, visit the interpretive center, and enjoy a meal at Sky Bistro, which offers an elevated dining experience, especially at sunset!

5. Hike to Johnston Canyon

Follow a winding trail through Johnston Canyon. This natural wonder features cascading waterfalls and stunning rock formations. Hike to the Lower Falls, Upper Falls, or the Ink Pots, which are mineral pools that bubble with color.

6. Go Skiing

Banff is home to three world-renowned ski resorts: Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mount Norquay. With over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, visitors can enjoy downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and more.

7. Go Wildlife Spotting

Keep your eyes peeled for Banff’s resident wildlife, such as elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears. Visit popular wildlife areas like the Bow Valley Parkway or take a guided tour with Banff Wildlife Tours for the best chance of spotting wildlife.

8. Take a Helicopter Tour

Get a bird’s-eye view of Banff’s stunning landscape on an unforgettable helicopter tour. Take in breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and peaks, and experience the Canadian Rockies like never before.

9. Relax at a Spa

Unwind and rejuvenate at one of Banff’s luxurious spas, where you can indulge in a range of treatments and therapies. Visit the Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Banff Springs or the Red Earth Spa at the Banff Caribou Lodge.

10. Get in the Spirit of Christmas

“The Spirit of Christmas” store is a charming holiday shop filled with festive decorations, gifts, and souvenirs. Visitors can find everything from classic ornaments to unique gifts that are sure to bring joy and cheer to anyone. A must-visit destination for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit.

11. Take a Scenic Drive

Drive along the breathtaking Icefields Parkway that winds through the heart of the Canadian Rockies and offers stunning views of glaciers, waterfalls, and towering peaks. Stop at popular viewpoints like Bow Lake or Athabasca Glacier for unforgettable photo opportunities.

12. Go Ice Skating

Strap on your skates and glide across the picturesque outdoor rink at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains while enjoying this quintessential Canadian winter activity.

13. Visit the Cave and Basin National Historic Site

Learn about the history of Banff’s hot springs at the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, which features interpretive exhibits and guided tours. Discover how the hot springs led to the creation of Banff National Park, and explore the cave where it all began.

14. Go White-Water Rafting

Get your adrenaline pumping on a white-water rafting trip down the Kicking Horse River or the Bow River. With experienced guides and thrilling rapids, this activity is perfect for adventure seekers looking for an exciting experience.

15. Attend a Festival

Banff is home to several festivals and events throughout the year, including the Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival and the Banff Craft Beer Festival. Enjoy live music, food and drink, and celebrate the vibrant culture of Banff.

16. Visit Bridal Veil Falls

Take a short hike to Bridal Veil Falls, a beautiful waterfall just outside Banff National Park. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering rock formations, this natural wonder is a must-see for any nature lover.

17. Go Canoeing on Lake Minnewanka

Rent a canoe and paddle on the crystal clear waters of Lake Minnewanka, one of the largest lakes in Banff National Park. Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and keep an eye out for wildlife like bald eagles or mountain goats.

18. Take a Horseback Riding Tour

Explore the stunning beauty of Banff on horseback with guided tours that take you through scenic trails and valleys. Enjoy the serene beauty of the Bow River Valley, or take a trip to Banff’s backcountry for a truly unique experience.

19. Go Caving

Discover the underground world of Rat’s Nest Cave, a wild cave system located just outside of Banff. Explore narrow passages, climb rock walls, and rappel through underground chambers with experienced guides.

20. Enjoy a Scenic Picnic

Pack a picnic and find a peaceful spot to relax and take in the stunning mountain views. Head to popular picnic areas like the Bow River picnic area or Vermilion Lakes picnic area, or explore off-the-beaten-path locations for a truly secluded experience.

21. Dine at Top-Rated Restaurants

Banff is home to some of the best restaurants in Canada, featuring delicious cuisine and breathtaking views. Indulge in culinary delights at renowned establishments such as Brazen, Farm and Fire, or Sky Bistro, where you can savor locally sourced ingredients while admiring the stunning panoramic views of the mountains.

22. Watch the Sunset at Vermilion Lakes

Head to Vermilion Lakes, a series of three stunning lakes with unbeatable views of the surrounding mountains. Watch the sun set over the horizon, painting the sky with spectacular colors. This peaceful and serene location is the perfect spot to end a day of adventure in Banff.

24. Relax in the Banff Upper Hot Springs

Soothe your senses in the natural mineral-rich waters of the Banff Upper Hot Springs while taking in the breathtaking mountain views. Located in Banff National Park, this famous hot springs facility is a must-visit destination for any traveler.

25. Take a Boat Cruise

Hop aboard the  Lake Minnewanka Boat Cruise  – Choose from one of their acclaimed cruises and explore under the lead of a knowledgeable guide on a heated, covered boat.

26. Even More Options for Sightseeing Tours

Enjoy a  Brewster sightseeing tour  – With convenient pick-up at drop-off locations, our tours take guests to the most exceptional locations for photos, wildlife viewing, and nature walks.

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This article was produced by Our Woven Journey.

Karee Blunt

Karee Blunt is a nationally syndicated travel journalist, focused on discovering destinations and experiences that captivate and inspire others through her writing. She is also the founder of Our Woven Journey, a travel site focused on inspiring others to create memory-making adventures with their loved ones. Karee is passionate about encouraging others to step out of their comfort zone and live the life they dream of. She is the mother of six kids, including four through adoption, and lives with her family in the Pacific Northwest. You can learn more about Karee on her about me page.

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Availability Search for  Macduff

Terms & conditions.

This booking system and any information appearing on this page relating to the availability of any accommodation is provided by third parties and not by VisitScotland. It is intended to provide real time availability information relating to accommodation which is also provided by third parties. You may use this booking system to place direct bookings with third party accommodation providers. Any booking you make will not be placed with VisitScotland and we will have no liability to you in respect of any booking. If you proceed to make a booking you will leave our Website and visit a website owned and operated by a third party. VisitScotland does not have any control over the content or availability of any external website. This booking system and any information appearing on this page is provided for your information and convenience only and is not intended to be an endorsement by VisitScotland of the content of such linked websites, the quality of any accommodation listed, or of the services of any third party.

Naomi Mason, Aberdeenshire Council. All rights reserved.

Macduff is a small coastal town in the Banff and Buchan area of Aberdeenshire, situated on Banff Bay looking out to the vast Moray Firth.

Linked by the seven-arch Deveron Bridge, the town is less than a mile from its neighbour, Banff, and is known for its fishing industry heritage. The centre of town revolves around the harbour that is where freshly caught seafood can be bought from local fishmongers, traditional fish and chip shops, or tasted at bars and restaurants.

Pay a visit to the Macduff Marine Aquarium – a jewel of the town, to learn about local wildlife and come face to face with a variety of species of sea creatures that live in the steely depths of the Moray Firth. Listen in to daily talks, watch feeding shows, take part in events, and get a feel of the sea creatures at interactive sessions and much more.

Play a round or two of golf on the greens at Royal Tarlair Golf Club which boasts spectacular views out to sea and across the Bay of Cullen. Or spend a quiet morning at the Tarlair Outdoor Swimming Pool to the east of the town, offering walks, atmospheric views and flashback in time to when the pool first opened in 1931.

Or for a more relaxing holiday, why not visit the Macduff Maritime Garden , or admire the stunning views after a stroll to the top of the Hill of Doune. Head to The Platform – a former railway station turned shopping destination – for a fabulous selection of home furnishings, clothing, a delicious patisserie, fashion and lots of quirky little gifts.

The content of many of our web listings is provided by third party operators and not VisitScotland. VisitScotland accepts no responsibility for (1) any error or misrepresentation contained in third party listings, and (2) the contents of any external links within web listings ((1) and (2) together hereinafter referred to as the "Content"). VisitScotland excludes all liability for loss or damage caused by any reliance placed on the Content. The Content is provided for your information only and is not endorsed by VisitScotland.

What's Nearby

Accommodation, attractions, food & drink, terms and conditions.

Top Things to Do in Banff, Aberdeenshire

Things to do in banff, tours near banff.

Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen

North East Coastal Trail Small Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour

Loch Ness and the Highlands Small-Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Aberdeenshire Private Half Day Castle & Historic Building Tour

Coastal Villages of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Scotland Tour

Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm)

Peterhead Prison Museum Ticket

Top attractions in banff.

Other Top Attractions around Banff

What travellers are saying

• Sandend Beach
• Museum of Banff
• Bridge of Alvah
• The Old School - Boyndie Visitor Centre
• Banff Harbour
• Inverboyndie Beach
• River Deveron
• Suds Surf School

Top Things to Do in Banff

Things to do in banff, tours near banff.

Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen

North East Coastal Trail Small Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour

Loch Ness and the Highlands Small-Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Aberdeenshire Private Half Day Castle & Historic Building Tour

Coastal Villages of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Scotland Tour

Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm)

Peterhead Prison Museum Ticket

Top attractions in banff.

Other Top Attractions around Banff

What travellers are saying

• Sandend Beach
• Museum of Banff
• Bridge of Alvah
• The Old School - Boyndie Visitor Centre
• Banff Harbour
• Inverboyndie Beach
• River Deveron
• Suds Surf School

Top Things to Do in Banff

Things to do in banff, tours near banff.

Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen

North East Coastal Trail Small Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour

Loch Ness and the Highlands Small-Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Aberdeenshire Private Half Day Castle & Historic Building Tour

Coastal Villages of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Scotland Tour

Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm)

Peterhead Prison Museum Ticket

Top attractions in banff.

Other Top Attractions around Banff

What travelers are saying

• Sandend Beach
• Museum of Banff
• Bridge of Alvah
• The Old School - Boyndie Visitor Centre
• Banff Harbour
• Inverboyndie Beach
• River Deveron
• Suds Surf School

Top Things to Do in Banff

Things to do in banff, tours near banff.

Dunnottar Castle and Royal Deeside Small-Group Tour from Aberdeen

North East Coastal Trail Small Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Balmoral & Royal Deeside Tour

Loch Ness and the Highlands Small-Group Day Tour from Aberdeen

Aberdeenshire Private Half Day Castle & Historic Building Tour

Coastal Villages of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Aberdeenshire

Taste of Scotland Tour

Aberdeen City Centre Walking Tour (2pm)

Peterhead Prison Museum Ticket

Top attractions in banff.

Other Top Attractions around Banff

What travellers are saying

• Sandend Beach
• Museum of Banff
• Bridge of Alvah
• The Old School - Boyndie Visitor Centre
• Banff Harbour
• Inverboyndie Beach
• River Deveron
• Suds Surf School