Top 13 Best Hotels in Banff – Where to Stay in 2025
Banff is one of those rare places where every corner feels like a postcard. Sitting inside Banff National Park, this mountain town is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and endless hiking trails.
Travelers come here year-round—skiing in winter, kayaking in summer, and soaking in hot springs anytime in between. With so much beauty around, finding the best hotels in Banff makes all the difference.
From historic castles like the Fairmont Banff Springs to cozy boutique lodges with wood burning fireplaces, the accommodations are as diverse as the landscapes. Whether you want luxury hotels with spas, tennis courts, and fine dining, or simple stays with easy access to trails and the great outdoors, Banff has it all.
In this guide, we’ll explore the top 13 favorite hotels where you can enjoy comfort, style, and unforgettable views of the Canadian Rockies in 2025.
1. Fairmont Banff Springs
Often called the “Castle in the Rockies,” the Fairmont Banff Springs is easily the most famous hotel in the region. Built by the Canadian Pacific Railway, it has been welcoming travelers for over a century.
This grand Fairmont hotel sits in the heart of Banff National Park, offering sweeping mountain views, elegant guest rooms (including the popular Fairmont View King), and world-class amenities. Guests can spend their days enjoying afternoon tea, indulging in spa treatments, or teeing off on the legendary Fairmont Banff Springs golf course.
Dining options range from fine steakhouses to casual cafés, and the hotel’s location makes it easy to visit Banff town or nearby hiking trails. With its mix of historic charm and modern luxury, this hotel feels like a destination in itself—perfect for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors without giving up five-star comfort.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Iconic “Castle in the Rockies” setting | Higher nightly rates |
| On-site spa treatments and afternoon tea | Can feel crowded in peak season |
| Access to golf, trails, and luxury dining | Extra fees for valet and self parking |
2. Banff Park Lodge
For travelers who want to stay in the middle of everything, the Banff Park Lodge is a top choice. Located just steps from Banff Avenue in downtown Banff, this hotel offers easy access to restaurants, shops, and the town’s lively atmosphere.
The guest rooms are spacious and comfortable, many with private balconies overlooking the valley or the nearby river. Inside, the hotel has multiple dining areas, an indoor pool, hot tub, and a steam room, making it a great option for families or groups who want amenities without leaving the property.
Its location also means you can enjoy a short walk to the riverfront trails or catch a bus to nearby attractions like Sulphur Mountain or Mount Norquay. While it may not have the grandeur of luxury resorts, it delivers a comfortable stay in the perfect place to explore both the town and the great outdoors.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Central downtown Banff location | Can get noisy on weekends |
| Pool, steam room, and hot tub | Décor feels a bit dated |
| Spacious rooms with balconies & mini fridges | Not as luxurious as Fairmont hotels |
3. Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Resort
If golf is your passion, the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Resort is the place to be. Designed in the 1920s, this championship golf course is one of the most scenic in the world, with fairways framed by the rugged peaks of the Canadian Rockies and the Bow River flowing nearby.
Guests staying at the resort can enjoy elegant guest rooms, fine dining, and access to the hotel’s luxury amenities, from spa treatments to afternoon tea. Even if you’re not playing, the setting itself is breathtaking, and the resort makes a perfect base to enjoy nature while still being close to Banff town.
In summer, the greens are immaculate, and in winter, the surrounding trails turn into snowy landscapes ideal for walking or skiing. Some suites even include unique touches like a glacier plunge tub, perfect after a day on the fairways.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| World-famous championship golf course | Premium prices for tee times |
| Elegant stay with spa and dining | Seasonal golf access only |
| Incredible setting in the Canadian Rockies | Best suited for golf lovers |
4. Moose Hotel & Suites
The Moose Hotel & Suites is a modern favorite that blends alpine charm with comfort. Located just a short walk from downtown Banff, it’s ideal for travelers who want easy access to shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
What sets it apart are the rooftop hot pools, offering panoramic mountain views of the Canadian Rockies—a perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring. The guest rooms are designed with rustic elegance, featuring floor to ceiling windows that let in natural light. Many also include private balconies, making them a favorite choice among couples. Families and groups will love the extra accommodations with mini fridges and kitchenettes.
With its balance of style, convenience, and incredible views, Moose Hotel is one of the favorite hotels for travelers looking to combine modern design with the cozy atmosphere of a mountain retreat.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Rooftop hot pools with amazing views | Parking is limited |
| Close to Banff Avenue and attractions | Rates are higher than budget stays |
| Spacious guest rooms with modern design | Wi-Fi can be inconsistent |
5. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Few places in the world are as iconic as the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Nestled right on the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, this luxury hotel delivers postcard-perfect scenery in every season.
Guests can start their mornings with afternoon tea overlooking the lake, enjoy a session at the spa Lake Louise, or head outside to canoe in summer or ice-skate in winter. Many guest rooms feature floor to ceiling windows and private balconies, while premium suites offer exclusive extras like soaking tubs with glacier plunge tub experiences.
Dining is a highlight, and the property sits along the route to the Icefields Parkway, making it a convenient stop for road trippers exploring the Canadian Rockies. While about 45 minutes from Banff town, it’s one of the favorite hotels for visitors wanting luxury right at the water’s edge.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unmatched lake views and location | Expensive nightly rates |
| On-site spa, dining, and activities | Very busy during peak summer months |
| Direct access to outdoor adventures | Farther from Banff town |
6. Canalta Lodge
The Canalta Lodge is one of the most welcoming Banff hotels for travelers who want comfort without the luxury price tag. Located just outside downtown Banff, it offers a cozy atmosphere with alpine-inspired design.
Guests love the complimentary free breakfast, and the outdoor courtyard with hot tubs and fire pits encourages a social vibe. Inside, guest rooms are designed with convenience in mind—many come with mini fridges and lots of additional space for ski or hiking gear.
The lodge also provides essentials for outdoor adventurers, like storage for ski equipment and reminders to pack essentials such as bear spray for trail safety. While it doesn’t have resort-style dining, its warm hospitality and central location make it a favorite hotel for those who want value and easy access to the great outdoors.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Complimentary free breakfast | No on-site fine dining |
| Outdoor hot tubs & fire pits | Fewer luxury amenities |
| Affordable compared to luxury resorts | Sells out quickly in ski season |
7. Juniper Hotel & Bistro
The Juniper Hotel & Bistro is a boutique property located just outside Banff town, known for its incredible views of the Bow Valley and Mount Norquay. Guests who stay here appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, while still being close enough for a quick drive into town.
The on-site bistro is a highlight, serving locally inspired menus. Many guest rooms have private balconies, giving you a front-row seat to sunrises over the Canadian Rockies. For travelers looking for smaller-scale accommodations, this hotel is one of the best-kept secrets in Banff.
It may not have resort-style extras like tennis courts or rooftop pools, but the Juniper makes up for it with personalized service and a sustainable focus. It’s especially popular with couples and photographers who come to visit Banff for its natural beauty.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning views of valley & Mount Norquay | Not in downtown Banff |
| Excellent on-site bistro with local menus | Fewer amenities than large resorts |
| Rooms with balconies and cozy design | Best suited for guests with rental cars |
8. Moraine Lake Lodge
For those dreaming of a stay right on one of the world’s most famous lakes, Moraine Lake Lodge is unmatched. Tucked deep inside Banff National Park, this eco-friendly retreat overlooks the turquoise waters of Moraine Lake.
The lodge is built in rustic style, featuring wood burning fireplaces, natural materials, and floor to ceiling windows that frame the stunning scenery. With no TVs, Wi-Fi, or distractions, it’s designed as a true escape into the wilderness—perfect for guests who want to disconnect and enjoy nature.
The on-site dining area serves gourmet meals included with your stay, using fresh Canadian ingredients. Due to limited rooms, availability is tight, but this exclusivity only adds to the charm.
For hikers, the nearby trails around the lake and Valley of the Ten Peaks offer some of the most breathtaking routes in the Canadian Rockies.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Iconic location directly on Moraine Lake | Extremely limited availability |
| Rustic, eco-friendly design | No Wi-Fi or TVs |
| Meals included with stay | Expensive compared to other Banff hotels |
9. Rimrock Resort Hotel
The Rimrock Resort Hotel is a classic choice for travelers looking for elegance and convenience just outside downtown Banff. Perched near Sulphur Mountain, it offers breathtaking mountain views from many of its guest rooms, often enhanced by floor to ceiling windows and private balconies.
Guests love the refined atmosphere, from the award-winning dining options to the full-service spa with steam rooms and spa treatments. Its location also makes it easy to reach the Banff Gondola and Upper Hot Springs with just a short walk or quick ride.
Inside, the design leans toward luxury, with plush furnishings and a polished feel, making it popular among couples seeking a romantic getaway.
While it’s not in the middle of Banff Avenue, the peaceful setting and upscale amenities more than make up for it. The Rimrock blends comfort, sophistication, and easy access to the great outdoors.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Stunning views of Sulphur Mountain | Not located in downtown Banff |
| On-site spa with treatments & steam room | Higher nightly rates |
| Luxury dining and elegant rooms | Resort fees can add up |
10. Sunshine Mountain Lodge
For ski lovers, the Sunshine Mountain Lodge is a dream come true. It’s the only ski-in, ski-out hotel in Banff National Park, located right on the slopes of Sunshine Village. In winter, you can step out of your guest room and hit the trails within minutes.
In summer, the area transforms into a paradise of alpine meadows and hiking trails, making it just as appealing for warm-weather visitors. The lodge itself has a cozy, mountain-lodge atmosphere, with wood burning fireplaces in some suites and plenty of rustic charm.
Guests also enjoy a hot tub with panoramic mountain views, perfect after a day outdoors. While the dining area is smaller than in town hotels, it serves hearty meals that fuel adventures. With its remote, on-site location, this lodge offers a unique way to fully immerse yourself in the Canadian Rockies.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ski-in, ski-out access in winter | Remote, away from Banff town |
| Outdoor hot tub with mountain views | Limited dining options |
| Perfect for skiing & summer hiking | Not ideal for non-skiers |
11. Mount Royal Hotel
Right in the heart of downtown Banff, the Mount Royal Hotel blends historic charm with modern amenities. Its location on Banff Avenue puts you within a short walk of shops, restaurants, and nightlife, making it one of the most convenient stays in town.
The highlight here is the rooftop hot pools, where guests can soak while taking in incredible views of the surrounding Canadian Rockies. Inside, the guest rooms are stylish yet cozy, equipped with modern touches like mini fridges and reliable Wi-Fi.
The hotel’s history adds character, with design elements that nod to Banff’s heritage while still feeling fresh. The front desk staff are known for their warm service, ensuring a smooth check in and comfortable stay.
While the central location is unbeatable, it can be noisy on weekends—but if you want to be in the middle of the action, this is the perfect place.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Central location on Banff Avenue | Can be noisy at night |
| Rooftop hot pools with mountain views | Limited parking on site |
| Historic charm with modern upgrades | Rooms smaller than resort hotels |
12. Charltons Banff
For a quieter boutique experience, Charltons Banff is a charming option just outside the busy core of downtown Banff. This cozy hotel offers suites and lofts that provide more additional space than standard Banff hotels, making it ideal for families or longer stays.
Many rooms come with mini fridges, fireplaces, and sitting areas, giving it a home-like feel. Guests enjoy easy access to the town—a short walk brings you to shops and restaurants, yet the property remains peaceful compared to central spots.
The indoor pool and hot tub add relaxation options after a day of exploring the Canadian Rockies. While it doesn’t have fine dining on-site, its location means you’re never far from local eats.
With its warm, alpine design and welcoming service, Charltons offers a comfortable stay at a reasonable price for those who want both value and convenience.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Spacious suites with fireplaces & mini fridges | No on-site restaurant |
| Quiet location, but close to town | Décor feels a bit dated |
| Indoor pool & hot tub for relaxation | Fewer luxury amenities |
13. Buffalo Mountain Lodge
Perched on Tunnel Mountain, Buffalo Mountain Lodge is a rustic retreat that feels tucked away in the wilderness yet remains close to Banff town. Known for its cozy, alpine style, many rooms feature wood burning fireplaces, vaulted ceilings, and private balconies with mountain views.
It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want to enjoy nature without giving up comfort. The on-site restaurant focuses on regional cuisine, with hearty Canadian dishes made from local ingredients, giving guests a true taste of the Rockies.
Outdoor enthusiasts love the lodge’s easy access to nearby hiking trails, while couples appreciate the intimate atmosphere for a romantic getaway. Though it doesn’t come with luxury extras like spas or rooftop pools, its authentic mountain lodge character is what makes it stand out among the best hotels in Banff. It’s simple, warm, and unforgettable.
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Rustic charm with wood burning fireplaces | Not a luxury-style resort |
| On-site restaurant with regional dishes | Limited amenities compared to larger hotels |
| Easy access to trails & peaceful location | Parking can be tight in peak season |
Conclusion
Choosing the best hotels in Banff really depends on the kind of trip you’re planning. If you want iconic luxury, the Fairmont Banff Springs and Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise deliver history, elegance, and world-class service. For something modern yet cozy, the Moose Hotel & Suites or Canalta Lodge offer comfort with great amenities like rooftop hot pools or complimentary free breakfast.
Travelers looking for quiet charm will love the Juniper Hotel, Charltons Banff, or Buffalo Mountain Lodge, all of which provide a peaceful base surrounded by incredible views of the Canadian Rockies. And for adventurers, places like Moraine Lake Lodge and Sunshine Mountain Lodge put you right at the doorstep of famous lakes and ski slopes.
No matter which hotel you choose, you’ll be surrounded by the natural beauty of Banff National Park—turquoise lakes, rugged peaks, and endless trails waiting to be explored. From luxury resorts to boutique retreats, Banff truly has a perfect place for every traveler in 2025.