5 day itinerary for Banff

Itinerary

Oh, Banff is such a stunning destination with so much to offer! Here's a fun-filled 5-day itinerary for your group of 4:

Day 1:

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local cafe in Banff town.
• Head to Banff Gondola for a scenic ride up Sulphur Mountain. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and Bow Valley.
• Have a leisurely lunch at the Sky Bistro at the top of the gondola.
• In the afternoon, explore the Banff Upper Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in the natural mineral waters.
• End the day with a delicious dinner at one of Banff's cozy restaurants.

Day 2:

• Drive to Lake Louise, about a 45-minute scenic drive from Banff.
• Spend the morning hiking around Lake Louise or rent a canoe for a peaceful paddle on the turquoise waters.
• Enjoy lunch at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise with stunning views of the lake and Victoria Glacier.
• In the afternoon, visit Moraine Lake for more jaw-dropping views and easy hiking trails.
• Head back to Banff for dinner and maybe some shopping in the town's charming boutiques.

Day 3:

• Start your day with a visit to Johnston Canyon for a morning hike to see the stunning waterfalls and limestone cliffs.
• Have a picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots along the trail.
• In the afternoon, explore the town of Canmore, just a short drive from Banff, for some local art galleries and shops.
• Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant in Canmore before heading back to Banff for the night.

Day 4:

• Take a guided tour or drive along the Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic drives in the world. Stop at viewpoints like Peyto Lake and Athabasca Glacier for photo ops.
• Have a picnic lunch at one of the scenic stops along the way.
• Visit the Columbia Icefield Skywalk for a thrilling experience walking on a glass-floored observation platform.
• Head back to Banff for dinner and maybe catch a live music performance at a local venue.

Day 5:

• Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local bakery in Banff.
• Explore the Banff Park Museum to learn about the history and wildlife of the area.
• Take a scenic drive to Vermilion Lakes for some birdwatching and peaceful views of Mount Rundle.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner at a fine dining restaurant in Banff, reminiscing about the amazing experiences you've had during your stay.

I hope this itinerary gives you a good mix of outdoor adventures, relaxation, and cultural experiences during your 5 days in Banff! Let me know if you need any more recommendations or tips. Safe travels!