Jam Tsirani

Since our main goal on this trip was hiking in the Canadian Rockies, after exploring the French-speaking part of Canada we flew to Calgary — the main entry point to the famous Banff National Park. We only stayed in the city for a day, mostly to recharge after the long flight from Montreal and to pick up our rental car for the adventures ahead.

CAR RENTAL DETAILS AND TIPS

The best way to explore Canada’s breathtaking national parks is by car. We booked ours through Rentalcars.com, and here are the key details:

• Duration: 25 days
• Cost: $1,050 USD
• Insurance: $200 USD for full coverage
• Route: Pick-up at Calgary International Airport, drop-off at Vancouver International Airport

How to Save Money on Car Rentals in Canada

• Choose pick-up and drop-off wisely – Airport rentals are convenient but usually more expensive. Picking up and returning at the same city branch (e.g., Calgary downtown) can significantly cut costs.

• Check your credit card benefits – Many travel credit cards include rental car insurance. If yours does, you can decline the extra coverage and save on fees.

• Book early for the best rates – Reserve your rental a few months ahead of your trip. Last-minute bookings in Canada, especially during summer, are often much more expensive.

The city itself left a mixed impression. On one hand, Calgary surprised us with excellent restaurants and cozy cafés — in fact, we had some of the best food of our entire Canada trip here. People also felt warmer and friendlier compared to other cities we visited. On the other hand, the number of homeless people on the streets, especially in the central areas, was quite shocking and gave the downtown a different atmosphere.

WHAT TO DO IN CALGARY

1. Stroll Through the City Center

Calgary’s downtown is modern, with a striking skyline and lively streets. Don’t miss a walk along Stephen Avenue, the city’s most famous pedestrian street, lined with shops, cafés, and historic buildings.

2. Visit the Calgary Tower

Visible from almost anywhere downtown, the Calgary Tower is the city’s most iconic landmark. While you’ll spot it easily while strolling the center, it’s worth heading up for a completely different perspective. From the observation deck, you’ll enjoy 360° panoramic views of the city, the rolling prairies, and—on a clear day—the majestic Canadian Rockies in the distance.

3. Relax in Prince’s Island Park

Right in the heart of the city, this riverside park is a lovely green escape from the urban buzz. With scenic walking paths, shaded picnic spots, and footbridges over the Bow River, it’s a great place to slow down and enjoy nature without leaving downtown.

4. Try Calgary’s Coffee & Food Scene

Calgary surprised us with its food and coffee — it turned out to be some of the best of our trip. If you’re a foodie or just love a good cup of coffee, check out these spots:

Conclusion

Calgary might not have the charm of Québec City or the drama of the Rockies, but it’s a lively stopover with great food, friendly people, and enough sights to fill a day. For us, it was the perfect place to recharge, pick up our rental car, and gear up for the real highlight of the trip—the breathtaking Canadian Rockies.