Welcome to Alberta, where breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities await you. This 4-day itinerary will take you on an unforgettable adventure while keeping your wallet happy. For the best hotel and flight deals, you can check prices on Kayak.
Saturday, October 7: Exploring Calgary
In the morning, start your day at Calgary Tower for stunning panoramic views of the city and the Rocky Mountains. Afterward, head to Stephen Avenue Walk, a pedestrian-only street lined with boutiques, cafes, and galleries. For lunch, indulge in some delicious street food from the various food trucks scattered around downtown. In the afternoon, visit the Glenbow Museum to immerse yourself in Alberta’s art and history. In the evening, catch a live music performance at one of Calgary's cozy pubs.
Calgary Tower: $18, 1-2 hours
Stephen Avenue Walk: Free, 1-2 hours
Glenbow Museum: $16, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Sugar Bowl in Edmonton. This cozy café offers a delicious variety of breakfast options including freshly baked pastries, hearty omelettes, and fluffy pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, stop by the Bear's Paw Bakery in Jasper. This charming bakery serves up a delectable selection of sandwiches, salads, and soups. Don't miss their famous cinnamon buns! The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For dinner, try The Raven Bistro in Jasper. This intimate bistro specializes in Canadian cuisine with a modern twist. Their seasonal menu features dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Restaurants
A cozy breakfast spot in Old Strathcona is Cafe Bicyclette, serving French-inspired dishes such as croissants and quiches. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For lunch, head to Elm Café for their delicious sandwiches and salads made with fresh, local ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Indulge in a hearty dinner at RGE RD, known for their farm-to-table cuisine and creative dishes made with seasonal ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Bison Restaurant, known for its cozy atmosphere and locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head over to Nourish Bistro, a vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurant offering creative and flavorful dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Sky Bistro, located at the top of the Banff Gondola with breathtaking views. Enjoy their Canadian-inspired menu with an average cost of about $40 per person.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Tooloulou's, a cozy diner known for its hearty portions and friendly atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Nourish Bistro, a vegetarian eatery offering creative dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at The Bison Restaurant, an upscale establishment known for its farm-to-table cuisine and extensive selection of Canadian wines. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Bison Restaurant. This charming eatery offers a variety of breakfast options, including mouthwatering eggs benedict and fluffy pancakes. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Tooloulou's. This Cajun-inspired restaurant serves up tasty dishes like jambalaya and po' boys. The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at The Grizzly House. Known for its fondue, this cozy restaurant offers a unique dining experience where you can cook your own meat or seafood at the table. The average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Restaurants
Breakfast: Start your day at Sammy's Family Restaurant, a cozy diner in Banff that offers delicious breakfast options such as fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, and eggs made to order. The average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Lunch: For a quick and satisfying lunch, head to Park Distillery located in Banff. This restaurant serves a variety of sandwiches, burgers, and salads made with locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Dinner: Indulge in a memorable dining experience at Bison Restaurant and Terrace, situated in Banff. This restaurant specializes in Alberta bison dishes, as well as other Canadian and international cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Restaurants
For breakfast, try the cozy café, Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters, known for their specialty coffee and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, grab a quick and flavorful bite at Village Ice Cream, offering a selection of unique and delicious ice cream flavors. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For dinner, head to the acclaimed Charbar, a restaurant specializing in Argentine-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Sunday, October 8: Natural Wonders of Banff
Get an early start and make your way to Banff National Park. Begin your day by driving along the stunning Icefields Parkway, stopping at iconic spots like Peyto Lake and Bow Lake for incredible photo opportunities. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the beauty of Moraine Lake. In the afternoon, take a leisurely hike around Johnston Canyon, known for its picturesque waterfalls. End your day by soaking in the warm waters of Banff Upper Hot Springs under the starry sky.
Icefields Parkway: Free, 6-8 hours
Moraine Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
Johnston Canyon: Free, 2-3 hours
Banff Upper Hot Springs: $8.30, 1-2 hours
Monday, October 9: Exploring Edmonton
Start your day in Edmonton by exploring the historic district of Old Strathcona. Browse through unique shops and enjoy a coffee at one of the cozy cafes. Visit the Royal Alberta Museum to learn about the province's rich history and diverse culture. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful river valley by renting a bike or going for a leisurely walk. End your day at Whyte Avenue, known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, and live music venues.
Old Strathcona: Free, 1-2 hours
Royal Alberta Museum: $12, 2-3 hours
River Valley: Free, 2-3 hours
Whyte Avenue: Free, as per your preference
Tuesday, October 10: Jasper National Park and Farewell
On your last day, embark on a scenic drive from Edmonton to Jasper National Park. Marvel at the beauty of Maligne Lake and take a boat cruise to Spirit Island if available. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the serenity of Pyramid Lake. In the afternoon, visit the Jasper SkyTram and get a bird's-eye view of the stunning surroundings. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around the charming town of Jasper before bidding farewell to this incredible region.
Maligne Lake: $68, 3-4 hours
Pyramid Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
Jasper SkyTram: $46, 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Alberta on a shoestring budget, don't miss the hidden gem of Drumheller, where you'll find stunning badlands, unique dinosaur exhibits, and the fascinating Royal Tyrrell Museum. For a local favorite, head to Canmore and explore the charming town nestled amidst picturesque mountain landscapes. Enjoy scenic hikes, cozy cafes, and a friendly atmosphere without breaking the bank.