Need to know
Calgary is one of the biggest cities in Canada with a thriving metropolitan population. Born out of an oil boom in 1902, and famed for holding the 1988 Winter Olympics and the traditional July Stampede each year, Calgary is a young city with a variety of fascinating features just waiting to be discovered.
The city is a hub of attractions that balances fast paced modern life with traditional pioneer values. Head Downtown to see a collection of heritage buildings and historic sandstone architecture.
There are lots of arts and cultural points of interest to visit across the city that balance modern life with traditional pioneer values, including the Glenbow Museum, which houses contemporary art as well as centuries-old artefacts, and the Heritage Park Historical Village. With all buildings built in 1915 or earlier, visitors to the village can experience a number of historical attractions at their own leisure. Calgary is committed to showcasing public art which you will find dotted around the city, and teems with shopping and dining opportunities, offering plenty to see and do throughout the duration of a visit. Stephen Avenue in the Downtown area has a range of boutique restaurants and great shopping spots.
The city is connected by the Calgary Pathway System, a network of multi-use pathways made for pedestrians and cyclists. The pathways connect along the Bow and Elbow Rivers, offering beautiful views of the city and connecting residential areas to the bustling city and neighbourhood parks.
Complementing the urban skyline of the city, Calgary is located in easy reach of several scenic natural attractions. Nature lovers will enjoy Fish Creek Provincial Park with its walking trails, abundance of wildlife, atmospheric lakeside views and fishing spots all in the heart of the city. There are also a number of tours departing from Calgary to the famous Canadian Rockies, an area internationally renowned for crystal blue lakes, spectacular mountain vistas and lush vegetation.
Getting around
Calgary is a modern city with lots of environmentally-friendly ways of getting around. The Calgary Pathway System makes walking and cycling around the city easy and gives you the opportunity to take in the beautiful natural surrounds. The Light Rapid Transit (LRT) rail system, sometimes called the C-Train, is free in the Downtown area and around cost around $3 for those travelling further afield. The $3 ticket allows you to transfer to other buses or C-Trains. Buses are also a good option for travelling around the city with most buses running every 15 to 30 minutes.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Calgary is in the summer months, from June to August, when the city hosts some of its most popular events, including Globalfest and the Calgary Folk Music Festival. Rates can be higher during these months, so visit in April or October to get a better deal.
Those looking for a skiing holiday should visit from November to March when the wintry conditions are perfect for hitting the slopes.
Airports in Calgary
YYC Calgary International Airport
The main airport for international travellers heading to Calgary is YYC Calgary International Airport. The airport has weathered many changes since it was established in 1914 and has recently opened a new state-of-the-art international terminal. Flights make their way to YYC Calgary International Airport from a number of destinations, including London, San Francisco, Frankfurt and Amsterdam.