Best Banff Tours from Seattle

Best Time to Visit Banff

The summertime from June-September is perfect for a variety of outdoor activities and sight-seeing. The winter time from November-March is for skiing.

Getting from Seattle to Banff

There are 3 ways to get from Seattle to Banff by plane, bus or car.

By Plane: The closest airport to Banff is Calgary International Airport. Flights from seattle to banff Canada depart from Tacoma International Airport and take 1 hour and 35 minutes to arrive. You can rent a car to get there. Or, there are shuttle buses to different destinations at the airport, which will take about 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours to reach Banff.

By Bus: This is the longest way. You need to travel to Seattle Bus Station to take FlixBus 2115 to Vancouver Pacific Central Station, then change to RiderExpress to arrive in Banff, which will take you a total of 20 hours. If you're looking for a more relaxing bus ride, taking a multi-day Banff tour through British Columbia and on to Alberta would be a good option. These trips usually cover major attractions such as Banff National Park, Yoho National Park and Jasper National Park.

By Car: you can also drive and have the flexibility to explore at your own pace. However, the drive is long, taking about 9-10 hours (without stopping), plus border crossing time. Remember to bring a valid passport and green card (if required), as well as your driver's license and vehicle documents.

Getting Around Banff

The town of Banff itself is compactly laid out and perfect for walking or biking to the many attractions, stores and restaurants. If you're heading to Banff National Park or popular attractions, the local Roam public transportation system is an excellent choice. This eco-friendly bus service connects the town of Banff to major attractions like the Banff Gondola, Upper Hot Springs, Lake Minnewanka, and Johnston Canyon.

If staying at a hotel in Banff, you can also ask for a free bus ticket from the front desk. In the summer, Parks Canada also operates the 8X shuttle to high-demand areas such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. All Roam buses except the 8X are free, and round-trip fares are $25 for adults. In the winter, ski shuttles provide free transportation to nearby ski resorts. Be aware that parking is often limited in these areas.

Where to Stay in Banff

There are many types of accommodations in the town of Banff, from hotels to vacation cabins. These central locations are convenient for dining and shopping. If you're looking for a more serene, nature-friendly experience, consider staying near Tunnel Mountain or in Lake Louise Village, which is scenic and close to its namesake, Lake Louise.

Attractions and Nearby Wonders in Banff

With hot springs and proximity to mountain ranges such as Sulphur Mountain, panoramic views can be enjoyed from the Banff Gondola. Major attractions include Bow Falls, serene Vermilion Lake, and the Basin National Historic Site. In Banff National Park, you can explore the turquoise waters of Lake Louise and Emerald Lake, hike through Johnston Canyon, or admire the vastness of Lake Minnewanka. Besides to Banff, you can visit nearby attractions such as Phantom Crane National Park with its majestic Takakau Falls, the magnificent Icefields Drive leading to the Columbia Icefields, and the charming towns of Canmore and Jasper.