Discover Banff: A 3-Day Adventure, Relaxation, Nature, and Foodie Itinerary

Day 1: Adventure Awaits

Banff, Canada

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Maple Leaf

Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients, such as the Maple Leaf’s signature elk burger with poached egg.
Located in downtown Banff, a short walk from most hotels.
CAD 20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hike at Tunnel Mountain

Enjoy a moderate 2.2 km hike that offers stunning views of the Banff townsite and surrounding mountains along a well-marked trail.
Driving or taking a local shuttle to the trailhead is recommended; parking is available.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Banff Ave Brewing Co.

Refuel with a selection of house-brewed beers and delicious pub fare like bison sliders and poutine.
Located on Banff Avenue, easily accessible after your hike.
CAD 25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Banff Upper Hot Springs

Relax your sore muscles in the naturally hot mineral springs, set against a backdrop of stunning mountain vistas.
Take the Banff Roam Transit bus or drive; it's a short 10-minute trip.
CAD 8, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Stroll through Banff Avenue Shops

Discover local boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops while soaking in the charming mountain town atmosphere.
Walking distance from the hot springs.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Bison Restaurant

Savor a farm-to-table dinner featuring delicious Alberta beef or the seasonal game dish.
Located just off Banff Avenue, an easy walk from shopping.
CAD 35, 2 hours

8:00PM

Night View at Surprise Corner

Catch the stunning sunset views over the Banff Springs Hotel and Bow River.
A short drive or a 30-minute walk from downtown Banff.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature's Beauty

Lake Louise, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Fairmont Château Lake Louise

Indulge in a breakfast buffet overlooking the stunning turquoise lake, featuring an array of international dishes.
Drive from Banff to Lake Louise; it's about a 45-minute drive.
CAD 40, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Lake Louise

Spend your morning kayaking on Lake Louise or walking along its scenic shoreline; rental services are available on-site.
Directly at Lake Louise, parking available.
CAD 40 for rental, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Lakeview Lounge

Enjoy a lakeside lunch featuring bison meatballs and locally inspired salads while gazing at the beautiful scenery.
Located within the Fairmont Château.
CAD 30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Hike to Lake Agnes Tea House

Embark on a moderate hike to the charming tea house, enjoying the views of waterfalls along the way.
Starting point is just from Lake Louise; the hike is approximately 3.4 km one-way.
CAD 5 (for tea), 3 hours (round trip)

4:30PM

Afternoon at Moraine Lake

Take in panoramic views of the Valley of the Ten Peaks and consider a canoe rental on the vibrant blue water.
Drive from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake, approximately 20 minutes.
CAD 40 for rental, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Post Hotel & Spa

Dine in an elegant setting with a menu showcasing local Canadian flavors, with options like wild salmon or Alberta lamb.
A short drive back towards Lake Louise.
CAD 50, 2 hours

8:30PM

Stargazing

Experience a breathtaking sky filled with stars in the quiet of Lake Louise, one of the best spots for stargazing.
Find a quiet spot close to the lake's edge.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 3: Relax and Explore

Canmore, Canada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Le Fourth Café

Start your day with delicious coffee and freshly baked pastries at this cozy local café.
Drive from Lake Louise to Canmore; it takes about 30 minutes.
CAD 15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park

Take advantage of hiking and biking trails, or try some mountain biking rental options available on-site.
Easily accessible with ample parking.
Free for trails, CAD 40 for bike rental., 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Canmore Museum and Geoscience Centre

Learn about the history and geology of the Canmore area through engaging exhibits.
A short 5-minute drive from the Nordic Centre.
CAD 5, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Earls Kitchen + Bar

Enjoy a casual lunch with a diverse menu featuring everything from burgers to sushi, perfect for refueling.
Located in downtown Canmore, accessible by car.
CAD 25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Relax at Policeman's Creek Boardwalk

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk and take in the scenery, with great photo ops of the surrounding mountains.
Walking distance from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Go to Grassi Lakes Trail

Hike to these stunning turquoise lakes for spectacular views, with options for an easier or more challenging route.
A quick 10-minute drive from Canmore’s downtown.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Iron Goat Pub & Grill

End your adventure with a mountain view dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients, perhaps trying their famous goat curry.
Just a short drive or a 25-minute walk from the lakes.
CAD 30, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening Walk and Reflection

Conclude your trip with a reflective walk around the town or by the river, savoring the memories of your beautiful Banff adventure.
Enjoying the walk is convenient; Canmore is pedestrian-friendly.
Free, 1 hour
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