To get around in Alberta, you can use a variety of transportation options, including flying, driving, taking the train or bus, or using public transportation in cities, with a well-developed network of roads and highways making it easy to explore the region.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Alberta has two main international airports, Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Edmonton International Airport (YEG), which offer direct flights to major hubs in North America, Europe, and Asia. Calgary International Airport is a major hub for WestJet and Air Canada, while Edmonton International Airport is a key destination for flights from the United States and Europe. If you're coming from within Canada, you can also fly into one of the many regional airports, such as Red Deer Regional Airport or Grande Prairie Airport.
For those traveling overland, Alberta is easily accessible by car or bus from neighboring provinces and states. The main overland entry points include Highway 1 from British Columbia, Highway 4 from Saskatchewan, and Interstate 15 from Montana. You can also take the bus or train from major cities like Vancouver, Seattle, or Winnipeg. Several bus companies, including Greyhound Canada and Red Arrow, operate routes into Alberta, while VIA Rail offers train service from Vancouver and other Canadian cities.
Domestic Flights
Alberta has an extensive domestic air network, with multiple daily flights between Calgary and Edmonton, as well as to other regional airports. You can fly with major airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, or Flair Airlines, which offer competitive prices and convenient schedules. Booking in advance can help you save money, with prices starting from around $100 CAD for a one-way ticket. Some popular domestic routes include Calgary to Edmonton, Calgary to Vancouver, and Edmonton to Toronto.
Trains & Rail
Alberta's rail network is moderate, with VIA Rail offering service from Vancouver to Toronto, with stops in Jasper, Edmonton, and Calgary. The Rocky Mountaineer train also operates in Alberta, offering scenic routes through the Canadian Rockies. While there are no high-speed rail options in Alberta, the trains offer a comfortable and scenic way to see the province. You can book tickets online or at the train station, with prices starting from around $100 CAD for a one-way ticket.
Buses & Coaches
Several intercity bus companies operate in Alberta, including Greyhound Canada, Red Arrow, and Cold Shot. These companies offer routes between major cities like Calgary, Edmonton, and Red Deer, as well as to smaller towns and rural areas. The buses are generally comfortable and affordable, with prices starting from around $20 CAD for a one-way ticket. You can book tickets online or at the bus station, and some companies offer discounts for advance booking or for students and seniors.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Calgary, Edmonton | $3 | Limited routes, but convenient for downtown areas |
| City Bus | Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer | $3 | Extensive routes, with frequent service |
| Taxi | everywhere | $2.50/km | Metered fares, with surcharges for airport pickups |
| Ride-Hailing | Calgary, Edmonton | $5-$10 | Uber available, with prices varying by time of day |
| Bike Share | Calgary, Edmonton | $1-$2 | Convenient for short trips, with bike lanes available |
Driving
- To drive in Alberta, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country or province, as well as car insurance that covers you in Canada.
- Alberta's roads are generally in good condition, with well-maintained highways and scenic routes through the Rockies.
- Fuel costs are around $1.20 CAD per liter, with gas stations available throughout the province.
- Car rental companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis operate in Alberta, with prices starting from around $40 CAD per day.
- Be aware of wildlife on the roads, particularly at dawn and dusk, and take precautions to avoid accidents.
- In winter, be prepared for snow and ice on the roads, and consider renting a car with winter tires or four-wheel drive.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of scams targeting tourists, particularly in airports and train stations, and never give out your personal or financial information to strangers.
- Use credit cards or debit cards to pay for transportation, as they offer better exchange rates and fraud protection than cash.
- Download the Transit app to plan your route and track public transportation in real-time.
- Consider purchasing a Presto card for convenient travel on public transportation in Calgary and Edmonton.
- Be mindful of road conditions, particularly in winter, and check the weather forecast before embarking on a journey.
- Take advantage of free parking in many downtown areas, but be aware of time limits and restrictions.
- Use designated bike lanes when cycling, and always wear a helmet to ensure your safety.