🏔️ Calgary + Banff 5-Day Solo Trip (Car-Free!)

⚠️ First things first: When in doubt, go to the Banff Visitor Centre (224 Banff Ave)! They can help with itineraries, opening hours, bus routes, tickets—everything. Sadly, they close at 5 PM (right when I arrived 😅). 🚌 Transport & Tickets 🚍 Calgary → Banff: Took FlixBus (~$20 CAD): ✔️ 1 included luggage 🧳 ✔️ Charging outlets 🔌 💺 Pro tip: Seats AB (left side) face Calgary Tower views; CD (right side) face the river/mountains! 🚌 Banff Local Transit (Roam 1 & 2): Covers attractions within ~15 mins of town. Single ride: $2 | Day pass: $5 (select "Banff Local" zone). 🚍 Banff → Attractions (e.g., Lake Louise via 8X/9): ~$10–20 (includes Roam access). 🏨 Accommodation 📍 Best for car-free travelers: Stay near Banff High School Transit Hub (3 hotels opposite the bus terminal + 1 block to Visitor Centre). Prices: $200–300/night. ⚠️ Honest Review: King Edward Hotel (2-star) ✔️ Cheap + prime downtown location ✔️ Staff were super kind (refunded me past cancellation time!) ❌ Tiny room (just a double bed + desk) ❌ Cleaning = trash removal only (no bed-making) 💡 Verdict: Okay for budget overnight stays, but skip if you want comfort! 🍽️ Food (Limited Sampling!) ☕ Brunch Spots: 1️⃣ Melissa’s Missteak Ordered eggs Benedict + milkshake → HUGE portions! 🥛 Warning: Milkshake felt heavy after rich sauces/buttery dishes. 2️⃣ Farm & Fire Smoked salmon + jam toast → So big the server suggested a kids’ meal! 🌃 Dinner (Mountain-View Dining): 1️⃣ Sky Bistro ($$$ ~$80/person) 2️⃣ Northern Lights ($$ ~$45/person) #Canada #Banff #SoloTravel #CarFreeAdventure #BudgetTravel