How to Get from Calgary Airport to Banff: Complete Travel Guide
- vamos39
- Sep 19
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 2
When planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies, travelers always ask: how to get from Calgary Airport to Banff and how much it really costs. Below we compare all available options, including hidden fees, so you can choose wisely.
1. Renting a Car
Rental price: from $90–$150 CAD per day, depending on season and vehicle type.
Insurance: rental companies charge an additional $25–$40 CAD/day for insurance.
Fuel: Calgary to Banff one way requires around 12–15 liters of gas (~$20–25 CAD).
Banff National Park Pass: every vehicle entering Banff requires a daily pass. For a standard car, this is $11 CAD/person/day or around $22 CAD per vehicle/day.
Parking in Banff: $3–$5 CAD per hour or $20–$25 CAD per day at central lots.
Total estimated cost: $160–$220 CAD per day, excluding parking fines or winter tire surcharges.
2. Public Transit
From Calgary Airport, you must first take a shuttle to downtown Calgary ($10–$15 CAD).
Regional bus from Calgary to Banff costs $20–$30 CAD per person one way.
For a family of 4, the round trip may already reach $200–250 CAD, not including the time lost with transfers.
Cheapest option, but slowest and least convenient.
3. Taxi or Private Transfer
Standard taxi rate from Calgary Airport to Banff: $300–$500 CAD one way, depending on demand.
Most companies charge extra for waiting time, extra luggage, or ski equipment.
Comfortable but expensive and unpredictable.
4. Vamos Express Shuttle – The Smart Alternative
For most visitors, the Vamos Express Shuttle offers the best balance of price, comfort, and transparency.
Meet & Greet at Calgary Airport: driver with a sign at arrivals, escorting you directly to a comfortable minivan.
Capacity: up to 6 passengers with luggage, skis, snowboards, or other gear included at no extra charge.
Family-friendly benefits: child seats, coffee or grocery stops, scenic photo breaks — all free of charge.
Welcome Kit: light snacks and soft drinks to refresh after your flight.
Door-to-door service: no strangers, no transfers, just your group.
Fixed pricing:
299 CAD per trip Calgary Airport – Banff or Banff – Calgary Airport.
499 CAD round trip (Calgary Airport – Banff – Calgary Airport).
Compared to car rental or taxi, this is the most cost-effective private transfer option when traveling in groups or families.
How to Get from Banff to Calgary Airport
Returning from Banff to catch your flight? Vamos Express Shuttle guarantees on-time arrival at YYC, safe driving on mountain roads, and no stress about parking or delays.
Conclusion
When comparing car rentals, taxis, public transit, and shuttle services, the choice is clear. Renting a car includes hidden costs (insurance, fuel, parking, national park pass). Taxis are overpriced. Public buses are inconvenient.
For just $299 one way or $499 round trip, the Vamos Express Shuttle Inc. provides a private, stress-free, door-to-door transfer with all extras included.
Your Rockies adventure should begin in comfort — and Vamos Express makes sure it does.
