Calgary

Plan Your Perfect Calgary Holiday with Thorne Travel

Calgary is where rugged adventure meets modern city life. Known for its cowboy roots, lively festivals, and striking skyline framed by mountain views, this Alberta city is a vibrant base for exploring both urban culture and the Canadian wilderness.

Stroll through Stephen Avenue, explore local art at Glenbow Museum, or catch a panoramic view from the Calgary Tower. From rodeo thrills at the famous Calgary Stampede to craft breweries, food trucks, and boutique shopping, there’s plenty to discover downtown before heading out into nature.

Just over an hour’s drive from Banff National Park, Calgary is the perfect starting point for mountain adventures — whether it’s skiing, hiking, or glacier spotting. It’s a city that blends cowboy charm, prairie hospitality, and a bold modern energy.

Travel Guide

Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Average Temperature: -7°C (January) to 23°C (July)

Average Flight Time from UK: Approximately 9 hours (direct)

Time Difference: -7 Hours

Landmarks

Explore Calgary’s Iconic Attractions

Calgary offers a wide range of attractions, from towering skyscrapers to scenic parks and historic districts:

Calgary Tower – For breathtaking views of the city and the Rockies beyond, visit the Calgary Tower. The observation deck offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.

Glenbow Museum – Explore Canadian and Indigenous art, history, and culture at the Glenbow Museum, one of Calgary’s largest museums, known for its diverse exhibitions.

Heritage Park Historical Village – Step back in time at this living history museum, where you can explore historic buildings, ride a steam train, and experience life in 19th-century Canada.

Calgary Stampede – Held every summer, the Calgary Stampede is the largest rodeo in the world, featuring exciting competitions, live music, and a massive exhibition of Western culture.

The Bow River Pathway – Enjoy the beauty of Calgary’s nature right in the heart of the city. The Bow River Pathway offers scenic walking and cycling trails along the river with stunning views of the Rockies and downtown Calgary.

Cuisine

Calgary’s Culinary Scene: A Blend of Cultures and Flavours

Calgary is a city where foodies will thrive, with an impressive variety of dining options to suit every taste and budget:

Charcut Roast House – A local favorite offering rustic, contemporary cuisine with a focus on house-cured meats and wood-fired dishes.

River Café – Located on Prince Island Park, this charming restaurant offers fine dining in a rustic setting, serving dishes made from the freshest local ingredients.

Model Milk – A stylish, farm-to-table restaurant offering inventive Canadian cuisine in a modern yet cozy space.

Pigeonhole – A trendy spot offering creative small plates, craft cocktails, and an intimate atmosphere for those seeking a unique dining experience.

Café Blanca – A must-try for breakfast lovers, Café Blanca offers a delicious range of pastries, brunch dishes, and locally sourced coffee.

Accommodation

Where to Stay in Calgary

Whether you’re looking for luxury, boutique charm, or affordable comfort, Calgary has a range of accommodations to suit your needs:

The Fairmont Palliser – A historic luxury hotel offering elegant rooms, exceptional service, and a prime location downtown, close to shopping, dining, and attractions.

Hotel Arts – A contemporary boutique hotel offering a modern design and luxurious amenities, located near the Calgary Tower and vibrant Kensington neighborhood.

Hyatt Regency Calgary – A stylish and convenient hotel offering great views of the city skyline, as well as a full-service spa and dining options.

The Westin Calgary – Located in the heart of downtown, The Westin offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, and an inviting atmosphere for relaxation.

Aloft Calgary University – A chic, affordable option near University of Calgary, offering modern design and easy access to the city’s outdoor activities and cultural sites.

Outdoor Adventures

Nightlife and Entertainment in Calgary

When the sun sets, Calgary comes alive with its lively nightlife scene, offering everything from trendy bars to live music and dance clubs:

Kensington – Known for its eclectic mix of pubs, bars, and restaurants, Kensington is the place to go for a fun night out in Calgary.

The National on 10th – A stylish venue for craft cocktails, live music, and dancing, offering a contemporary atmosphere perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.

The Calgary Folk Music Festival – If you’re in town during the summer, the Calgary Folk Music Festival offers a weekend full of performances by Canadian and international artists, celebrating music in the great outdoors.

The Broken City – A relaxed venue with a rooftop patio, offering live performances, karaoke nights, and a laid-back atmosphere.

The Commodore Ballroom – A great spot for enjoying live music, the Commodore Ballroom hosts performances by both local talent and international stars.

Nightlife and Entertainment

Festivals and Events in Calgary

Calgary is a city that loves to celebrate, and there are numerous festivals throughout the year that showcase its unique culture and spirit:

Calgary Stampede – Known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” the Calgary Stampede is an annual rodeo, parade, and exhibition that draws visitors from around the world.

Calgary International Film Festival – An exciting event for film lovers, this festival showcases international and Canadian films, with screenings, panels, and premieres.

Sled Island Music Festival – An indie music festival that celebrates up-and-coming artists from around the world, with performances across various venues in Calgary.

Calgary Folk Music Festival – Held each summer, this festival brings together folk music fans for a weekend of concerts, workshops, and outdoor performances.

Beltline Urban Mural Project – Celebrate art and creativity at this annual event, where local and international artists paint murals across the city’s Beltline district.

Day Trips

Day Trips from Calgary

Calgary’s central location makes it the perfect base for exploring the surrounding area. Here are some great day trips from the city:

Banff National Park – One of the most beautiful places in Canada, Banff is just a short drive from Calgary, offering stunning mountain views, hiking, skiing, and access to Lake Louise.

Drumheller – Explore the Dinosaur Provincial Park and the world-famous Royal Tyrrell Museum, where you can see real dinosaur fossils and explore ancient landscapes.

Kananaskis Country – Known for its outdoor adventures, Kananaskis Country offers skiing, hiking, and incredible wildlife experiences just a short drive from Calgary.

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump – A UNESCO World Heritage site, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditional hunting practices of the First Nations people.

Calgary

Plan Your Perfect Calgary Holiday with Thorne Travel

Travel Guide

Landmarks

Cuisine

Accommodation

Outdoor Adventures

Nightlife and Entertainment

Day Trips

Extras

Travel Insurance

Car Hire

Holiday Extras

Attractions

Interested in this destination?

Our Stores

Opening Hours

Information

Contact Information