To determine the best area to stay in Calgary, consider the city's diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience, from the vibrant downtown area to the charming suburbs, with the top areas including Downtown, Beltline, Kensington, Inglewood, and Mission.
Best Areas to Stay
For each of the top 5-7 areas/neighborhoods:
Downtown (Calgary)
Best For: Business / Luxury
Vibe: Downtown Calgary is the city's central business district, with a vibrant atmosphere and plenty of amenities, including shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The area is also home to many major corporations and convention centers.
Price Range: $150-300/night
Pros: Convenient location, easy access to public transportation, and a wide range of amenities and services. Downtown Calgary also offers a variety of cultural attractions, including the Glenbow Museum and the Calgary Tower.
Cons: Can be busy and noisy, especially during rush hour, and parking can be a challenge.
Beltline (Calgary)
Best For: Backpacker / Young Traveler
Vibe: The Beltline is a trendy neighborhood located just south of downtown Calgary, known for its vibrant atmosphere, boutique shops, and restaurants. The area is also home to the popular 17th Avenue SW, a lively entertainment district.
Price Range: $100-200/night
Pros: Affordable prices, variety of dining and entertainment options, and a lively atmosphere. The Beltline is also within walking distance to downtown Calgary and many major attractions.
Cons: Can be noisy, especially at night, and some areas can be a bit rough around the edges.
Kensington (Calgary)
Best For: Family / Local Experience
Vibe: Kensington is a charming neighborhood located just north of downtown Calgary, known for its small-town feel and eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. The area is also home to the popular Kensington Village, a pedestrian-friendly shopping and dining district.
Price Range: $120-250/night
Pros: Family-friendly atmosphere, variety of local shops and restaurants, and a convenient location. Kensington is also within walking distance to the Bow River pathways and Prince's Island Park.
Cons: Limited parking options, and some areas can be a bit quiet and residential.
Inglewood (Calgary)
Best For: Luxury / Local Experience
Vibe: Inglewood is a historic neighborhood located just southeast of downtown Calgary, known for its charming atmosphere and upscale shops and restaurants. The area is also home to the popular Inglewood Bird Sanctuary and the Bow River pathways.
Price Range: $180-350/night
Pros: Unique and historic atmosphere, variety of local shops and restaurants, and a convenient location. Inglewood is also within walking distance to the Bow River and several major attractions.
Cons: Can be a bit pricey, and some areas can be a bit quiet and residential.
Mission (Calgary)
Best For: Family / Local Experience
Vibe: Mission is a charming neighborhood located just south of downtown Calgary, known for its small-town feel and eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. The area is also home to the popular 4th Street SW, a lively entertainment district.
Price Range: $100-220/night
Pros: Family-friendly atmosphere, variety of local shops and restaurants, and a convenient location. Mission is also within walking distance to the Elbow River and several major attractions.
Cons: Limited parking options, and some areas can be a bit quiet and residential.
Accommodation Types
| Type | Price Range (USD/night) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostels | $20-50 | Budget/Social | Shared rooms and communal facilities, great for meeting other travelers |
| Guesthouses | $60-120 | Mid-range/Local | Family-run establishments with a homey atmosphere, often with breakfast included |
| Hotels | $100-250 | Comfort/Business | Wide range of options, from budget-friendly to luxury, with amenities like pools and fitness centers |
| Boutique Hotels | $150-300 | Experience | Unique and stylish hotels with a focus on design and service, often with a local flavor |
| Resorts | $200-400 | Relaxation | Luxurious properties with amenities like spas, golf courses, and fine dining, often located outside the city center |
| Apartments/Airbnb | $80-200 | Long stays/Families | Self-catering accommodations with kitchen facilities, often more affordable for longer stays |
Booking Tips
- Book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (June to August and December).
- Compare prices across multiple booking platforms, such as Expedia, Booking.com, and Airbnb.
- Consider staying in a neighborhood rather than downtown for a more local experience and often lower prices.
- Look for packages and deals that include amenities like breakfast or parking.
- Be aware of any additional fees or taxes, such as the 4% tourism levy in Calgary.
- Read reviews and check the location of your accommodation before booking.
- Negotiate the price if you're staying for an extended period or booking multiple rooms.
Safety & Location Tips
- Calgary is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in dimly lit or deserted areas at night.
- The downtown area can be busy and noisy, especially during rush hour, so consider staying in a neighborhood if you prefer a quieter atmosphere.
- The Beltline and 17th Avenue SW are popular entertainment districts, but can also be noisy and crowded at night.
- Consider staying near a major transportation hub, such as the Calgary International Airport or the downtown core, for easy access to public transportation.
- Research the location of your accommodation and its proximity to major attractions and amenities before booking.