I’ll be honest, most people think of Calgary as a pit stop on the way to the Rockies.
And sure, the skiing is incredible, but this city keeps pulling me back for so much more: snow-capped peaks visible from downtown streets, neon-lit bars buzzing on a Friday night, a food scene that keeps surprising me (in the best ways possible), and hockey fans painted red losing their minds in the stands.
Whatever season you visit, Calgary provides. In winter, you’re carving through fresh powder in the morning and warming up in a craft cocktail bar at night. Come summer, the city transforms. Think wildflower-lined trails, rivers full of fly fishers, and golden light that stretches past 10 p.m.
One thing I love is how different each neighborhood feels. Glass towers and busy patios downtown, tree-lined streets and vintage shops a few blocks away.
Whether you’re craving urban energy or something slower, I’ve got you covered with the best areas for your vibe and budget.
Read on for my recommendations on where to stay and what to do during your visit to Calgary!
Downtown
If you’re visiting Calgary for the first time, stay Downtown. It has most of the Calgary’s top attractions, restaurants, and connections, plus historic landmarks. It’s also a foodie haven with diverse, world-renowned eateries.
Motel Village
While not an actual neighborhood, Motel Village is where you’re going to find the best deals on lodging. It is located in northwest Calgary near the University of Calgary and Banff Trail CTrain station. It earned its name from the cluster of budget-friendly motels concentrated along Crowchild Trail and 16th Avenue NW.
Beltline and Village Park
Calgary’s Beltline and Village Park neighborhoods, just south/southwest of the city centre, are its liveliest districts. They’re packed with restaurants, cafes, unique boutiques, and a buzzing entertainment scene with bars, clubs, and nightlife.
Inglewood
Inglewood, one of Calgary’s oldest and coolest neighborhoods, was originally the city’s downtown hub. It’s home to independent boutiques, local coffee shops, craft beer, and charming locals.
Bridgeland
Bridgeland sits north of the Bow River, adjacent to Downtown and Inglewood, and is well-connected across the city. It’s home to family-friendly attractions like the Calgary Zoo and TELUS Spark, plus other conveniences.
Best Places to Stay in Calgary
Calgary is a vast, dynamic city. Boasting Alberta’s largest metro area, Calgary offers a world-class dining scene, a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, and a famously passionate sports culture. With so much to see, do, and taste, it’s no wonder Calgary is one of Canada’s most popular destinations.
One thing to keep in mind as you’re looking for a place in Calgary is how widely prices can fluctuate from season to season and around popular festivals and events (Calgary has a lot of them!).
For most of Calgary, apartment stays are generally going to be your most wallet-friendly options during colder months. However, during the summer months, those great prices can sky-rocket.
While hotel prices do rise as well, their price hikes generally are not as crazy as some of the ones you find with apartments. As an example, I found an awesome condo in Beltline for under $100/night (yay!) only to find that in the summer months, it’s over $500/night (fuck off!). So just keep that in mind as you’re looking.
If you’re unsure where to stay, we’ve got you covered with detailed guides to each area below. I’ll help you find a spot that fits your vibe, whether you want hip nightlife, family-friendly neighborhoods, or to stick to your budget.
1. Downtown – Where to Stay in Calgary for your First Visit
Downtown Calgary is the city’s big, loud heart where suit-and-tie meets street busker swagger. This is where you will find most of Calgary’s top attractions.
By day, you’ve got museums, galleries, and plenty of hotels for a comfy base. By night, the towers glow and the bars buzz. And the food! With a world of flavors in a concentrated area, even the most fearless foodie will never get bored.
For me, Stephen Avenue is a can’t-miss area in Downtown. It is a pedestrian-friendly portion of 8th Ave, situated between 1st Street SE and 4th Street SW, that is home to tons of restaurants, cafes, boutiques, and bars. Keep in mind, the area has been undergoing a major renovation project since 2025 that will carry into 2026 but should be completed in time for the Calgary Stampede in July.
If you want a fast-paced city vibe with easy access to sights and eats, Downtown is your spot.
- Best For: First-time visitors, access to many city highlights, business travelers
- The Vibe: Energetic, urban, with skyline views and a mix of offices, shops, and entertainment
- Proximity to Airport: Moderate (about 20–25 minutes by car or airport transit)
- Transport Level: High (excellent transit and walkability; major CTrain lines)
- Budget: Can be pricey for hotels and dining
- Crowds: High (busy, especially weekdays and evenings)
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Top Things to Do Downtown
- Go for a stroll down the Stephen Avenue pedestrian mall.
- Discover all the beautiful murals that decorate the downtown area. You can DIY it or join a street art and craft beer tour that will guide you to the hidden treasures and introduce you to a couple of Calgary’s many breweries.
- Head to the Glenbow Museum to learn about the art, culture and history of Western Canada. Admission is free!
- Ice skate for free at Olympic Plaza during winter months.
- Climb to the top of The Calgary Tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
- Discover The Famous Five by visiting the monument.
- See a range of performances and exhibits at the Werklunds Centre, formally known as Arts Commons.
- Sink your teeth into premier Alberta beef at Saltlik Steakhouse.
- Take a relaxing stroll through the Devonian Gardens
- View incredible works of art at The Art Gallery of Calgary.
HI Calgary City Centre | Best Hostel in Downtown
This newly renovated property is one of the best hostels in Calgary. It’s a quick walk from the city center and is close to great bars, restaurants, and shops. We love this hostel because it offers so many amenities, including free all-you-can-eat breakfast, individual lockers, bed lights, and more!
Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Downtown | Best Hotel in Downtown
This hotel has comfortable rooms, modern amenities, a rooftop terrace, and a pool. Best of all, breakfast if free! If you prefer to save money by eating in, a full kitchenette is available in each room. When you’re not relaxing at the hotel, there are endless bars, stores, and attractions on your doorstep.
Calgary Tower View | Best Airbnb in Downtown
You really can’t get more central than this cool, clean sub-penthouse on the 30th floor. There’s a sheer abundance of things to do right on your doorstep: from museums to beaches, parks, cafes, and bars. It’s super convenient and ideal if you’re on a short visit. You’ll also love the private balcony and swimming pool!
1 Bedroom King Bed Downtown | Best Value Airbnb in Downtown
Great location, but at a more budget-friendly price point. This Super Host property is your cozy little basecamp after a full day (and night) of adventures. In addition to the king-size bed in the bedroom, there is also a pull-out couch in the living room, so four people can comfortably stay here.
2. Motel Village – Best Area to Stay in Calgary for Budget Options
While not an actual neighborhood, if you are looking for the best deals on lodging in Calgary, Motel Village is your place. But I’m not gonna lie, friend, you are choosing this area for the prices, not for a bunch of stuff to do right outside your door.
It is, however, located right by the Banff Trail CTrain Station and is an easy 15-minute ride to Downtown. There are dining options (e.g. McDonald’s) within walking distance if you get hungry and don’t want to go far.
- Best For: A cheap place to stay
- The Vibe: No-frills, practical, and convenient
- Proximity to Airport: Moderate (about 25-30 minutes)
- Transport Level: Good – Banff Trail CTrain Station provides easy access to downtown in about 15 minutes
- Budget: This is where you’re going to find the best prices with easy access to public transport
- Crowds: Low to moderate – quiet area, not a major tourist hotspot
Top Things to See and Do in Motel Village
- Walk to the Banff Trail CTrain Station.
- With all that money you’re saving, join Rocky Mountain Trips for a day tour of Banff National Park and Lake Louise.
Econo Lodge Motel Village | Best Motel in Motel Village, Calgary
The Econo Lodge Motel Village includes a microwave and fridge in each room, as well as an exercise room and laundry facilities. On top of all of that awesomeness, there is also a free breakfast! (Have you noticed I’m a sucker for a free breakfast?) Several reviews also mention a cool pancake machine. Book here and go check it out!
Comfort Inn & Suites University | Best Hotel in Motel Village, Calgary
My friends, you can stop looking now. This is the place! This Comfort Inn & Suites has a free continental breakfast and an indoor pool with a . . . wait for it . . . water slide!!!! It’s just a two minute walk to the Banff Trail Station and then you’re on your way to all the fun. Add in the bangin’ price, and you’d be crazy to pass this place up!
Room Near University | Best Airbnb Room in Motel Village, Calgary
This no-frills option is located in a beautiful and peaceful neighborhood near the University of Calgary. It has a shared bathroom and includes access to a shared living room and kitchen. It is a slightly longer walk to the LRT station from here (20 mins), but there are more dining options nearby, as well as Edelweiss Village, a European deli and market
2 Bedroom Home | Best Airbnb Home in Motel Village, Calgary
A two bedroom house for less than $100 a night?! You’re welcome. This home is located in the peaceful Banff Trail community and is a short five minute walk to the LRT station. It also includes a free parking space. On nice evenings, there is an outdoor patio as well as a fire pit where you can go and relax. Like the Airbnb above, this is a slightly longer walk to the LRT, but has more dining options nearby as well.
3. Beltline/Victoria Park – Best Area to Stay in Calgary for Nightlife
While Beltline and Victoria Park are technically separate neighborhoods, they are adjacent to each other and blur into each other naturally, so we will treat them as one here. Another thing that makes them a natural match? They are where all the action is!
You won’t find a livelier neighborhood combo than Victoria Park and Beltline. Located south of city centre, these neighborhoods form Calgary’s most vibrant dining, nightlife, and entertainment corridor. It gets pretty noisy if you are visiting Calgary on the weekend, especially if there’s a Flames game, but hey, you only live once!
The Beltline is also home to Calgary’s infamous 17th Avenue, otherwise known as the Red Mile. The heart of the city’s entertainment district, 17th Avenue is home to a vast array of lively bars, bustling pubs and boisterous nightclubs where you can dance from dusk until dawn.
If you want to be in the middle of all the action and party the night away, Beltline and Victoria Park are where you want to stay.
- Best For: Nightlife, sports fans, entertainment seekers, foodies
- The Vibe: Energetic, trendy, eclectic entertainment district, with a vibrant restaurant and bar scene
- Proximity to Airport: Moderate, roughly 25–35 minutes away
- Transport Level: Excellent, CTrain, buses, very walkable (Beltline slightly better than Victoria Park)
- Budget: Mid-range to slightly upscale pricing
- Crowds: Moderate to High, especially on the weekends and during major events
Top Things to See and Do in Beltline/Victoria Park
- Choose from a wide range of Canadian craft beers at National on 17th.
- Dress to impress at Bespoke, an upscale lounge in the Beltline.
- Wander along the stunning Elbow River or rent bikes and explore the banks on two wheels.
- Dance the night away at the legendary Cowboys Dance Hall.
- Don’t’ miss the exciting, lively, and world-renowned Calgary Stampede, which takes place every summer.
- Root for the hometown Calgary Flames of the National Hockey League at the Scotiabank Saddledome.
- Indulge in a mouthwatering burger or outrageous milkshake at Regrub.
- Kickstart your day with a delicious breakfast at Monki.
- Sneak a peek at the intriguing Chinook Arc installation.
- Spend a fun night at the Commonwealth Bar & Stage.
Best Western Plus Suites | Best Hotel in Beltline
Large rooms, wonderful views, and an unbeatable location – it’s no wonder we love this Calgary hotel! Set at the center of the city, this hotel is close to shops, restaurants, bars, and cafes. It boasts a variety of features, including a Jacuzzi, a sauna, and free wifi.
Hotel Arts | Best Hotel in Victoria Park
Hotel Arts provides stylish and convenient accommodation in Calgary. Each room comes with a Keurig coffee machine and a workstation, as well as a comfy bed and an ensuite bathroom. The hotel also provides a fitness centre, an onsite restaurant and bar, a pool, and room service. It’s right by top attractions including Calgary Memorial Park and Tower, the Art Gallery, and the Discovery Dome.
City Views Apartment | Best Apartment in Beltline
This modern and cozy one-bedroom apartment is a Guest Favorite on Airbnb. Despite having only one bedroom, you can pack four guests into this place, so call your friends up and split the already reasonable cost! Added bonuses include in-suit laundry and a free parking space. The apartment has everything you’d want from a Beltline location: an easy walk to restaurants, bars, entertainment.
Stampede Fireworks View Condo| Best Airbnb in Victoria Park
This modern condo is the ideal Airbnb in Canada for families, couples, or business travelers deciding where to stay in Calgary. Top features include free parking, wifi, and a fully equipped kitchen. The Stampede View condo has epic views and is situated right in Victoria Park. Guests also have access to the patio, gym, and garden terrace. The apartment is spacious, and large windows let in plenty of natural light and views over the cityscape.
Panoramic Condo with City Views | Best Condo in Beltline
If heights don’t bother you, then you’ll love this amazing panoramic view apartment with some of the best windows in Calgary! The condo boasts awesome sunset views, and lets you see as far as the river and mountains. It’s super modern yet cozy throughout, with enough space to sleep up to four guests. The building is ideally situated a short walk from the core of Downtown, where you’ll find bars, restaurants, and nightlife.
4. Inglewood – Coolest Place to Stay in Calgary
Inglewood is one of Calgary’s oldest neighborhoods. It was the site of Calgary’s original downtown core and for decades was the hub of all that was happening in Calgary. Though it’s just minutes from Downtown, Inglewood feels like a small town full of its own local character.
But don’t come to Inglewood expecting the neighborhood to be old and outdated. In fact, Inglewood is one of the coolest neighborhoods in all of Canada. It is one of the most culturally diverse areas of Calgary and is where you’ll find everything from biker bars to antique stores.
If you’re into music, Inglewood is the home of Music Mile, which stretches along 9th Avenue SE. Boasting more than 20 music venues on and around Avenue SE, all your musical desires are sure to be fulfilled.
Whether you’re a culture vulture, a fabulous foodie, a fashionista, or an art aficionado, you’ll love Inglewood.
- Best For: Hipsters, independent shop lovers, antique hunters (antiques are cool again)
- The Vibe: Charming, artsy, historic with indie character
- Proximity to Airport: Moderate, roughly 30–35 minutes away
- Transport Level: Moderate, some bus routes, less CTrain access
- Budget: Mid-range, affordable to slightly elevated
- Crowds: Moderate, busier during weekend markets
Top Things to Do in Inglewood
- Visit Smithbilt Hats (a Calgary institution since 1919) and get yourself one of the city’s signature white cowboy hats.
- Enjoy local cuisine and stylish drinks at The Nash.
- Explore the lush and expansive Inglewood Wildlands and visit the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary.
- Grab a late-night snack at the Blackfoot Truck Stop.
- Visit Moonstone Creation, an Indigenous-owned boutique that features handcrafted jewelry, art, and home goods. They also host in-person classes like beadwork.
- Kickstart your day at Delightful Café.
- Listen to live music at the Ironwood Stage & Grill.
- Sample from a great selection of creative brews at High Line Brewing.
- See brilliant exhibits at the Esker Foundation.
- Sip a cappuccino or cocktail at Gravity Espresso & Wine Bar.
- Unleash your inner animal at Gorilla Whale.
Fully Private Suite | Best Airbnb in Inglewood
This tastefully decorated basement suite is ideally placed in central Inglewood. It’s walking distance to 9th Ave where you’ll find interesting boutiques, and close to the Bird, Wildlands, and Fish parks. You’ll have a kitchen, laundry facilities, and free wifi. Despite being in the basement, the suite is bright and airy throughout, with plenty of space for you and a partner to relax in.
Quiet room in Downtown Calgary | Best Private Room in Inglewood
You’ll feel right at home staying in this beautiful guest room. You’ll get the privacy of your own space as well as access to the rest of the property, like the nice yard. It’s a beautiful space to get some work done in and is one of the best places to stay in Calgary for digital nomads. The house is stylish and full of character, and sits in the heart of Inglewood close to quirky coffee shops and boutiques.
Guesthouse with Parking | Best Holiday Home in Inglewood
Sleeping up to five people, this holiday home is ideal for groups deciding where to stay in Calgary. It’s modern throughout, with two bedrooms, an epic living room, and a fully equipped kitchen. It’s close to Downtown and provides easy access to Inglewood’s top places to visit. Given its location and size, I reckon this place is awesome value for money!
Calgary Character Home | Best Cottage in Inglewood
Enjoy a relaxing and comfortable vacation in Calgary by making your base at this beautiful house. Located on a cul-de-sac, it’s got to be one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Canada. It offers one cosy rooms outfitted with modern amenities. Guests can also enjoy free wifi, a garden and my personal fave: the private hot tub! It is ideally located for exploring Inglewood, the city and surrounding countryside.
5. Bridgeland – Best Neighborhood in Calgary for Families
Bridgeland is a beautiful neighborhood located northeast of Downtown, just beyond the Bow River, that mixes historic beauty with modern amenities. With its great walkability and beautiful green spaces, you’ll want to spend your entire time outside while you’re there.
This neighborhood is also home to two of Calgary’s top family-friendly attractions, the Calgary Zoo and TELUS Spark Science Centre. Because of these two fantastic attractions – and a handful of others – Bridgeland is our pick for where to stay in Calgary for families.
Access to the CTrain means it is well connected to the rest of the city. Be aware that you will see this as Bridgeland/Riverside on a map (I’m pointing that out because I got confused).
You can spend a busy morning hitting the sites Downtown and then easily head back up to Bridgeland and find a place to grab lunch as you wander along 1 Ave NE, where a growing number of independent shops, boutiques, and eateries are concentrated.
After you eat, stop into one of Bridgeland’s many gelato and ice cream shops for a treat to enjoy while taking a nice stroll along the Bow River Pathway or to Tom Campbell’s Hill Natural Park where you can get some amazing shots of Downtown.
- Best For: Young families, relaxed explorers, foodies
- The Vibe: Charming, trendy, residential with great restaurants
- Proximity to Airport: Moderate, roughly 20 minutes away
- Transport Level: Good, Bridgeland CTrain station nearby
- Budget: Mid-range, reasonable dining and lodging
- Crowds: Low to moderate, pleasantly uncrowded
Top Things to See and Do in Bridgeland
- See your favorite animals, reptiles, apes, and aquatic creatures at the incredible Calgary Zoo.
- Dine on a delicious and filling breakfast at OEB Breakfast Co.
- Rent bikes and explore the Bow River pathway.
- Feast on local dishes at the Blue Star Diner.
- Have your mind blown at the groundbreaking TELUS Spark Science Centre.
- Grab a slice of savory and saucy pizza at LCV Pizza Bar.
- Snack and sample your way around the Bridgeland-Riverside Farmers’ Market.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon in Tom Campbell’s Hill Natural Park.
- Try one of the best burgers in Calgary at Burger 320.
Downtown condo with a homey vibe | Best Airbnb in Bridgeland
Hardwood floors, cozy decor, and enough space for family activities make this one of the best Airbnbs in Calgary. This open-concept condo includes two bedrooms and two full bathrooms with enough space for six guests. A free underground parking space is included if you’re planning some day-trips to the mountains. Otherwise, everything you could need is within walking distance.
Best Western Airport Inn | Best Hotel in Bridgeland
The convenient location of this hotel makes it an ideal base if you’re traveling with family. It’s right by the airport and a short drive away from central Calgary, so you can reduce travel time and get on with your vacation. It’s also close to the highway and has free parking, ideal if you’re on a road trip around Calgary. The hotel offers traditional rooms and a free breakfast. Most importantly for those traveling with kids is the indoor pool.
3 Bedroom Home | Best Airbnb Home in Bridgeland
If you’ve got a big family – or just a family that needs their own space (like mine) – this three-bedroom home in Bridgeland should fit the bill. Built in the 1940’s, this house has been fully renovated in recent years, though the owners consider the backyard space it’s crowning jewel. It’s located on a quiet, residential street that is still walkable to everything you might need (including playgrounds!).
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Calgary
In case you end up sampling a bit too much of the many artisanal beers Calgary has to offer and decide you can definitely take on that moose that somehow found its way into one of the many parks around Calgary (yes, it could happen), it’s best to make sure you’re covered by good travel insurance.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQ about Staying in Calgary
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Calgary and where to stay.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Calgary
Listen, I’m not going to judge if your major reason for visiting Calgary is to spend time in the Rockies and visit Banff. But I definitely encourage you to take a couple days to explore the city. There’s so much to experience in Calgary from it’s street art, to its artisanal beers, to its many different festivals.
And if you need any more encouragement to visit the city, I’ve saved the best thing for last: FREE PANCAKES! I got your attention there, didn’t I? But seriously, every year during the Calgary Stampede free pancakes are served at sites all around the city. How awesome is this place?!
But, in all seriousness, if I could only choose one of these places to stay, I think I’d go with the City Views Apartment in Bridgeland. I personally appreciate going back to a place that feels like “home” after an action-packed day.
Hopefully, now that I’ve imparted my wisdom about where to stay, you’re ready to book those tickets and go have some fun in Calgary. I’ll see you there!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Canada.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Calgary.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Calgary instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Calgary to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for Canada.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
