Banff is Canada's most famous mountain town, set inside Banff National Park in the Rockies. Its hotels range from a castle resort to cabin lodges and a downtown hostel. This guide breaks down Banff's hotels by category and area, with real booking links for each property.
Where to Stay in Banff by Area
Banff Avenue (Town Centre)
The walkable heart of Banff — shops, restaurants and the park information centre. Best for first-timers and anyone who wants to walk to dinner.
Tunnel Mountain
A residential ridge above town with a cluster of resorts and lodges, a short drive or shuttle from the centre. Best for resort-style stays and mountain views.
Sulphur Mountain
Home to the Banff Upper Hot Springs and the Rimrock Resort, on the quieter side of town. Best for a secluded resort feel.
Find hotels, vacation rentals, activities and car rentals for Banff.
Hotels by Category
Luxury
- Fairmont Banff Springs — the "Castle in the Rockies," a full-service luxury resort with a spa and golf course. Check availability
Resort
- The Rimrock Resort Hotel — a mountain resort on Sulphur Mountain with sweeping valley views. Check availability
- Tunnel Mountain Resort — a condo-style resort on Tunnel Mountain with kitchens and fireplaces. Check availability
- Banff Rocky Mountain Resort — a relaxed resort on Tunnel Mountain with suites and a pool. Check availability
Boutique
- Mount Royal Hotel — a renovated boutique on Banff Avenue with a rooftop hot tub. Check availability
- Elk + Avenue Hotel — a stylish boutique in the town centre, steps from Banff Avenue. Check availability
Cabin Lodge
- Buffalo Mountain Lodge — a cabin-style lodge on Tunnel Mountain with wood-burning fireplaces. Check availability
Hostel
- Samesun Banff — a lively hostel in the town centre for budget travellers. Check availability
Which Hotel Is Right for You?
- First-timers: Banff Avenue — the Mount Royal Hotel or Elk + Avenue put you in the walkable centre.
- Couples: Buffalo Mountain Lodge for a fireside cabin, or the Rimrock for resort romance.
- Families: Tunnel Mountain Resort or Banff Rocky Mountain Resort, with suites and kitchens.
- Luxury: Fairmont Banff Springs — the Castle in the Rockies.
- Budget: Samesun Banff, in the town centre.
For more, see the Banff destination page, and compare stays across Canada with our Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal hotel guides.