Although we have extensive experience across all of Canada, Calgary is actually our home base, which means we know a lot about this beautiful city and all the awesome Calgary tours that you can enjoy.
Located next to the world-famous Canadian Rockies and the Dinosaur Capital of the World, there are also lots of Calgary tours that take you outside the city to explore some of the best natural attractions in Alberta.
So whether you’re looking for a tour in Calgary or a tour to the Rocky Mountains and beyond, we’ve got you covered in this guide to the best Calgary tours!
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With so many Calgary tours both within the city and in the surrounding areas, there are many options for you to choose from. Below are the top 17 Calgary tours we could find!
Our Top 3 Picks: Calgary Tours
#1 TOP PICK
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Three-Hour Bike Tour
✔️ Experience the beauty of Calgary ✔️ Bike and Guide included
#2 PICK
Kananaskis Whitewater Rafting
✔️ Exciting and Adventurous
✔️ See the Rocky Mountains
#3 PICK
Private Tour to Banff
✔️ World-Famous Banff
✔️ World-famous Lake Louise
🚫 Con
1. Private Self-Guided River Rafting Tour in Calgary
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
Even as locals, one of our favourite things to do during the summer in Calgary is to go tubing down the river. Whether it’s cruising down the Bow River or lazy floating down the Elbow River, this private self-guided river rafting tour is a great way to experience the city and some of the best views.
Since this is a self-guided tour, you’ll simply pick up your raft, get some instructions from the rental company, and head out on a true Calgarian adventure. Feel free to go solo or bring your family and friends for a peaceful float down the river, passing by golf courses, residential areas, nature, parks, and even parts of downtown Calgary.
This is an amazing way to spend a day in Calgary! Pack a picnic lunch, grab your tunes, and head out! So much fun!! You have the rental raft for the whole day, so take your time, stop along the way! We had so much fun the first time, we went 2 more times this summer!
– Happy Customer (see more reviews)
This four-hour self-guided rafting tour in Calgary includes:
- PFDs, paddles and safety kit
- Free Parking
- Guides are not required for these tours.
- Tickets ($7 each) for our convenient shuttle to the launch point
2. Calgary Downtown: 2-Hour Introductory Walking Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
Whenever we visit a new city, we always try to take a walking tour as it’s such a great way to not only learn about a new place but to also get oriented. This is your chance to embark on a 2-hour walking tour of Calgary’s Downtown. Hear the stories and history that make Calgary an exciting cosmopolitan city and explore the +15 elevated walkways that add to the city’s unique character.
Begin at Municipal Plaza and learn about the origins of Calgary. Continue on to see the newly-revitalized East Village buildings. Pass by more public art and many historic buildings. Travel along the most extensive pathway system in North America and into Chinatown. Work your way back towards the historic Stephen Avenue where your tour will end. If you’re hungry, this is a great place to find some of the best restaurants in Calgary.
We really enjoyed the Calgary waking tour with Mikaela! We saw and learned so much, which deepened our experience in the city. In particular, we loved the public art and the stories behind the sites we visited. Our guide was enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Highly recommended activity!
– Happy Customer (more reviews)
Calgary is a blend of a brash frontier town and a lively metropolis. Explore the downtown with a tour guide who will introduce you to this dynamic city. Enjoy the public art and historical buildings along the route. Some of the highlights include:
- Enjoy the public art seen throughout the city
- Learn the history of Calgary and Western culture
- Explore the historic buildings and hear their survival stories
- View the stunning architecture of the new public library
- Enjoy the tour in any weather conditions; Calgary’s elevated walkways will keep you warm and dry
3. Calgary City Sightseeing Tour in a Sidecar
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 70 Minutes | 🚀 BOOK NOW
If you’re for a truly unique Calgary tour, this is it! This Guided Sidecar Tour of Calgary offers a unique mode of transport: by vintage sidecar motorcycle. Relax while your driver takes you around the city and narrates the sights along the route. See landmarks like Scotsman’s Hill and Crescent Heights Park, which overlook the heart of Calgary, as well as a brief stop for photos. Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off are provided.
We loved being able to communicate as a group with the tour guides. They had so much enthusiasm for the city of Calgary and so much knowledge. It was a treat to spend time with these guides. We also loved the novelty of this tour – first time on a sidecar and we did not expect to learn so much and enjoy it so much!
– Denise (see more reviews)
This is a unique chance to tour Calgary in a vintage sidecar motorcycle ride through the downtown core with guided narration. They’ll also pick you up from all the downtown hotels for maximum convenience. The city tour rolls for 70 minutes with one stop for photos either at Scotsman’s Hill or Crescent Ridge. All in all, the tour included:
- Driver/guide
- Headsets to hear the guide clearly
- Live commentary on board
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Use of helmet
- Gratuities
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
4. Calgary: 3.5-Hour Bus City Tour with Gasoline Alley Museum
⭐️ RATING: 4.8 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
Set off on a 3.5-hour tour through Calgary to gain an overview of Downtown and take time to explore the famous Gasoline Alley Museum at Calgary’s Heritage Park. Photograph the panoramic views of the city, see classic cars, and learn about Calgary’s history.
This 3.5-hour Calgary Bus Tour begins at the base of the Calgary Tower and travels through downtown and to the Calgary Zoo, the Telus Spark Science Center, East Village, and to historic Inglewood, all in a comfortable minibus. You’ll also visit Scotsman’s Hill for some of the most beautiful views of the city, stop at Canada Olympic Park to watch some sporting activities and spend some time at Gasoline Alley Museum, a museum dedicated to historical gravitational gas pumps and antique vehicles.
Very professional, informative, knowledgeable, narrative by Judy. We toured the most photographic viewpoints in Calgary. We stopped at locations that allowed photographs, nutrient breaks, and a great museum of vintage automobiles. I recommend this tour to anyone who wants to see everything Calgary has to offer and the history that made it happen !!
– Happy Customer (see more reviews)
This 3.5-hour Calgary Tour includes:
- Get the best panoramic views of the Calgary skyline
- Explore classic cars, gas pumps, and vintage signage at Gasoline Alley Museum
- Hear stories about Calgary from your local guide
- Entrance to Gasoline Alley Museum
- Transport by comfortable bus
- Professional driver
- Local tour guide
5. 3-Hour Bike Ride Through Beautiful Calgary and the Bow River
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
If you’re looking for a scenic biking tour through Calgary’s top areas, this 3-hour Calgary biking tour is for you. Their expert local guides know Calgary inside and out. Touch, see, hear, and smell the mystifying magnificence of nature as you cycle along the Bow River and into Sandstone City. Explore local favourite prairie spots, marvel at the iconic Peace Bridge, and hear tales of conquest and mystery. Connect with the First Nations Peoples, the water, and the legendary Stampede, just to name a few.
In just three hours, you’ll see so much of what Calgary is known for, including the Bow River, Peace Bridge, Prince’s Island Park, the Chinese Cultural Centre Museum, St. Patrick’s Island Nature, the beautiful neighbourhood of Inglewood, parts of Fort Calgary, and the grounds of the world-famous Calgary Stampede. You’ll also see 17th Avenue Retail & Entertainment District A.K.A The Red Mile, the Beltline Hip neighbourhood closest to downtown, and more.
Our guide, Dan, was wonderful! Very knowledgeable and accommodating! It was just my husband and I on the tour and we loved every minute! It was a great way to see the city and learn all about it!!
– Happy Customer (see more reviews)
When it comes to Calgary tours, this is a great option for getting some exercise at the same time. This 3-hour Calgary Bike Tour includes:
- Use of bicycle
- Helmet (if wanted)
- A bicycle lock
- A Guided tour you won’t forget
6. Kananaskis River Rafting Adventure
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
Located only an hour west of Calgary, the Kananaskis is one of the most beautiful regions in the entire country. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting activity that combines some absolutely stunning mountain scenery, you’ll definitely want to book yourself in for a Kananaskis Rafting Tour.
Combine sightseeing with an adrenaline-pumping adventure on this small-group day tour from Banff or Canmore. You’ll soak up the sights as you raft down the Kananaskis River, one of Alberta’s most pristine waterways. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as bald eagles, bears and deer as you navigate the periodic rapids.
Our rafting guide was Tom and he was a lot of fun, very interactive and made the day extraordinary. Huge shout out to Tom who worked his butt off to make the day a hit for my family.
– Happy Customer (see more reviews)
Take in the Rockies scenery as you raft down the Kananaskis River on this small-group adventure (maximum seven guests). This ensures your guide’s full attention and this activity is great for all levels of whitewater rafting experience, even beginners.
When it comes to Calgary tours outside the city combined with adrenaline, this is it! This four-hour experience includes:
- Approximately two hours on the water
- Optional swim at the end
- All necessary equipment (wetsuits, lifejacket, helmet, rainjacket, wetsuit booties and gloves)
- Free photos of your rafting adventure are available online
- Snacks
7. 2-Hour Horseback Trail Ride in Kananaskis
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
Escape the hustle and bustle of Calgary by riding into the serene Alberta backcountry, which is only an hour’s drive away. This small-group horseback riding adventure will have you exploring forests and traversing a mountain ridge for excellent views of the entire Kananaskis Valley, something you’ll never forget. The tour is suitable for all skill levels, from novice to experienced riders.
Our two-hour Ridge Ride is the most popular adventure offered. On top of the magnificent views, you might catch a glimpse of the wildlife that resides in this unique ecosystem. Plus, you’ll also pass by our Teepee Village with one of the Teepees that was in the Movie The Revenant, starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Remember to bring your camera to capture the incredible scenery.
What an amazing experience! The ranch itself was beautiful and extremely well maintained. Everyone who worked there was very nice. The trails were beautiful and the horses were well trained and behaved. I will for sure be going back again.
– Kirsten (see more reviews)
This two-hour horseback riding tour includes:
- All taxes and fees
- A professional and experienced guide
- Use of horse and all necessary equipment
8. Experience Banff National Park & Lake Louise | Moraine Lake – PRIVATE DAY TOUR
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
Very few places in the world can rival the beauty of Banff National Park and luckily for you, this magical place is only a couple of hours from the city. Immerse yourself in the scenery of the Canadian Rockies and enjoy a personalized experience of Banff National Park on this private tour from Calgary.
Explore at your own pace as your guide shares the history of Canada’s first national park and takes you to some of the most famous sites including Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and Lake Minnewanka.
Canoeing Moraine Lake, hiking, gondola ride, sightseeing Lake Louise…jam packed day! The most beautiful day filled with beautiful memories. Thank you to our great guide, Manny, and everyone at ABest Tours for making this possible.
– Dawn (see more reviews)
This comprehensive Banff National Park tour is ideal for those with limited time and includes:
- Private Transportation in Van or SUV
- A personalized experience
- Hassle-free pickup from your Calgary Metro area accommodations
- Flexibility to adjust the itinerary to your own preferences
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
- Park Entrance Fee
- Bottled water
9. Discover Banff National Park – Day Trip
⭐️ RATING: 4.9 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 11 hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
Few places compare to the beauty of Banff National Park and this semi-private day trip will take you to some of the most popular places, such as Canmore, Lake Minnewanka, Banff, Castle Mountain, and Lake Louise. You will be laughing and enjoying the ride in between every incredible destination.
Not only will you see some stunning landscapes and possibly some wildlife, but you’ll also have a personal photographer the entire day so you can make friends back home jealous about your trip to Banff! You will do a short hike if you’re up for it, or walk a bit on an area with low elevation gain if you prefer. One thing is for sure, YOU will love the entire day in the Canadian Rockies. This trip is all about wowing you and hearing ahs and ohs all day long!
The tour guides Murray and Patrick were wonderful. We spent an adequate amount of time at every stop and the views were out of this world. It looked like all the wonderful pics that you see online. The tour was upbeat and lively and by the end I felt like I made 10 new friends. I really enjoyed myself. Patrick is a hoot, young, energetic and simply charming. I personally think that everyone is a bad driver but myself but I felt completely safe with maurray at the wheel. It was a great day.
– Takesha (see more reviews)
Your adventure starts when the guide picks you up at your hotel in Downtown Calgary (extra fees for hotels further away). You can even be dropped off in places like Banff and Canmore! When it comes to Calgary tours outside the city, this is an excellent option. This 10-12 tour includes:
- Private transportation
- Ice cleats for shoes
- Park entrance
- Bottled water
10. Lake Louise Moraine Lake Tour from Calgary or Banff
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 9 hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
Immerse yourself in the incredible Canadian Rockies on this guided tour from Banff to Moraine Lake and beyond. Marvel at Moraine Lake’s opalescent waters, learn about the human history of the landscapes, look for wildlife such as moose, bear, and elk, and make a stop at Lake Louise to snap photos of its world-famous turquoise waters.
If you’ve only got a day and want to “see it all”, this is a great option. Not only will you see some of the top sights in Banff National Park, but you’ll even make it to the world-famous Moraine Lake. In the winter, you’ll visit British Columbia and Yoho National Park instead.
Our guide, Alan, was so knowledgeable. Perfect amount of time allowed at each stop. So nice having someone else do the driving and parking. Highly recommend this tour.
– Cyndy (see more reviews)
When it comes to Calgary tours outside the city, this is a great option. This 8-10-hour Lake Louise and Yoho tour includes:
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Gratuities
- Bilingual Tour Guide
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
- 20-Minute free Snowshoeing for the Winter itinerary (Nov to mid-Apr / Weather Dependent)
- Traffic Accident Insurance (10M liability)
- National Park Fee
11. Banff Area 1-Day Tour from Calgary or Banff
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8+ hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
Explore many of Banff National Park’s top sights without doing any of the driving! This full-day tour from Calgary or Banff sets off in an air-conditioned coach with visits to key landmarks such as Sulphur Mountain (upgrade for a gondola ride) the dramatic Bow Falls, Johnston Canyon, and even some leisure time for wandering the town of Banff and enjoying lunch (own expense).
Amazing trip! And views! Bus tour guide was so friendly and helpful! Saw Beautiful places! Will definitely do this trip again with friends! Lunch was delicious we had in Banff town!
– Marina (see more reviews)
Leave the logistics and navigation to your driver on this seamless round-trip trip tour from Calgary or Banff. This trip includes:
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Park Entry
- GST (Goods and Services Tax)
- Gratuities
- National Park Fee
- Traffic Accident Insurance (10M liability)
- Free Crampon for Winter itinerary (Nov to mid-Apr)
12. Lakes, Glaciers & Thrilling Peaks | Off the Beaten Path | Exclusive Private Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8+ hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
This exclusive private tour will make you feel like a traveller rather than a tourist and is the only tour in the winter months that will take you to the Alpine Zone in Banff National Park. However, whether you join in the summer or in the winter, learning ancient native culture and colonial history will make for an unbelievably meaningful travel experience. This is the best tour for witnessing the most stunning lakes of Banff National Park.
You’ll get to see Herbert Lake, Bow Lake, and Peyto Lake along the spectacular Icefields Parkway as well as Lake Louise and even Moraine Lake during the warmer months. Free pick up and drop off from Calgary, Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise. No hidden fees.
It was amazing. He customized our tour due to weather and it turned out awesome. He did far and beyond touring. We couldn’t ask for more. Will definitely recommend and will do it again.
– Jane (see more reviews)
This 8-10-hour private tour includes:
- All Fees and Taxes
- Private transportation
- Private Guide
- Small private group maximum 2 travellers
13. Fatbike Frozen Waterfall Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
The countryside outside Calgary in the Rocky Mountains offers a world of outdoor adventure, but few pursuits offer as much fun as fat-biking. On this tour, hop into the saddle and peddle your way through the Canadian wilderness by fat bike, tackling the snowy terrain with ease. With a safety kit included and your guide to lead the way, you’ll get to visit a frozen waterfall and enjoy uninterrupted views of spectacular wintery scenery without worries. Explore the wilderness of the Canadian Rockies on this popular fat-bike cycling tour.
We had an amazing time on the fat bike tour. Our guide, Paul was extremely helpful with great tips on how to use the bikes properly. He made the morning really enjoyable and the tour had a great pace and was a fun ride. Everything was extremely well organized from start to finish.
– Happy Customer (see more reviews)
This 2-3 hour tour includes:
- Professional guide
- Use of bicycle
- Use of helmet
14. Snowshoeing in Kananaskis
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
Embark on a winter snowshoeing journey in the Kananaskis, which is just west of Calgary. Accompanies by a professional guide, you’ll get to focus on the scenery and the sound of your footsteps crunching into the snow rather than trying to find the right direction. You’ll learn the history of the Kananaskis through guided commentary, facts about the local flora and fauna, and how different species survive this harsh season.
This is a great opportunity to discover this 6000-year-old mode of transportation. Embrace the winter by walking across the thick snowpack instead of going through it. This tour runs from 10 am till 12 pm or 1:30 pm til 3:30 pm every day. This tour is ideal for everyone aged 6+. However, younger kids are welcome if the parents are up to the challenge.
Excellent experience. The rental snowshoes were in perfect condition and the price of a full day rental was very reasonable. The advice on snowshoe trails in Kananaskis was very helpful. We ended up at a beautiful location that was suitable for our fitness level that we would not have chosen on our own. Covid precautions were in place and being followed by the employees. Rental equipment returns were being sanitized.
– Happy Customer (see more reviews)
When it comes to Calgary tours outside the city, this is a good option in the winter. On top of all the beauty, this tour includes:
- Hot Beverage and Cookies
- Professional guide
- Snowshoes
15. Stargazing Tour – Kananaskis After Dark
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
Banff National Park is famous for its spectacular scenery, but after dark, the landscape takes on a whole new look and feel. On this Kananaskis Afer Dark tour, you’ll get to strap on some snowshoes and stomp into the Kananaskis forest on a guided moonlit hike. Stop in open clearings and peek at the stars through a telescope. Admire the beauty of the stars with very little light pollution.
Be dazzled by a sky full of more stars than you can possibly imagine. This hike will open your senses and change your perspective. Even a familiar trail looks different when the sun goes down. You are welcome to bring a camera and tripod to try out some astrophotography or to just hang out with the group and chat about astronomy. Please note: the use of snowshoes for this tour depends on snow levels.
Weren’t sure what to expect. We’ve never snow shoed before! Lots of fun, wintery scenery was wonderful. Great guide. Clouds cleared and we saw alot of stars… Even a couple shooting stars!
– Tara (see more reviews)
With a hot drink and cookie included, marvel at the wonders of nature in the Canadian wilderness. This two-hour tour includes:
- Hot Beverage and cookie
- Professional guide
- Use of Headlamp and Snowshoes (if required)
- Coffee and/or Tea
16. Mohkinstsis Walking Tour – Calgary’s Indigenous History
⭐️ RATING: 5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
Another side of Calgary is revealed on this walking tour with Indigenous guide, Tarra Wright Many Chief. Explore St. Patrick’s Island as she shares stories of the region’s Blackfoot people and the cultural significance of the land you’re walking on.
On this small-group tour, immerse yourself in the nature of the island as the Bow and Elbow Rivers flow around it. Learn from your Indigenous guide (a member of the Kainai Nation, also known as the Blood Tribe) about the history and culture of the area.
Exceeded all my expectations. The tour guide was extremely knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and a really delightful person! I left with an entirely new pair of glasses to see indigenous life.
– Happy Customer (see more reviews)
Your Indigenous guide will meet you at the George C King Bridge and guide you along a 2.5 km walking tour through Calgary’s St. Patrick’s Island while you learn from your Indigenous guide about the Indigenous history of Calgary and the traditional territory of the Blackfoot People. The tour is approximately 90 – 120 minutes depending on the speed of the group the very welcomed questions.
This tour includes:
- Stories of growing up on a reserve, Indigenous traditions and stories
17. Calgary to Royal Tyrrell Museum | Drumheller | Badlands – PRIVATE DAY TOUR
⭐️ RATING: 4.5 out of 5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8+ hours | 🚀 BOOK NOW
Everyone heads west to the mountains but did you know that the area east of Calgary is known as the Dinosaur Capital of the World? Explore Drumheller Provincial Park and the Canadian Badlands on this all-day private sightseeing tour from Calgary, Alberta. Travel at your own pace with your own group via a luxury sprinter van. Visit Horseshoe Canyon, walk among the hoodoos (tall, thin spires of rock), visit the Atlas Coal Mine, and stop at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Canada’s only museum dedicated to paleontology.
Excellent service and tour. Arnel was a wonderful guide. He was attentive to all our requests and doubts. The van was clean and sanitized. All the covid restrictions were followed. The Tyrrell Museum is a wonderful place to visit, but also the city of Drumheller. It is amazing to see all the city involved with the dinosaur theme. Bravo!
– Happy Customer (see more reviews)
When it comes to Calgary tours to Drumheller, this is one of the only options. This full-day tour to Drumheller includes:
- Private Sightseeing tour at your own pace
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
- Transport by Licensed and Insured Commercial vehicle
- All taxes, fees and handling charges, including fuel surcharges
- PFDs, paddles and safety kit
- Free Parking
- Guides are not required for these tours.
- Tickets ($7 each) for our convenient shuttle to the launch point
If you’re looking for Calgary tours, you’re probably going to be spending some time in the city. For more information on Calgary, check out these guides below:
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