Where to Stay in Calgary
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Calgary
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Inglewood
Calgary's oldest neighbourhood, offering a bohemian charm with vintage shops, art galleries, and live music venues.
Our top picks in Inglewood
Downtown
The bustling commercial and cultural heart of Calgary, filled with skyscrapers, offices, and key attractions.
Our top picks in Downtown
Kensington
A trendy and eclectic neighbourhood with independent shops, cafes, and a lively atmosphere.
Our top picks in Kensington
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Inglewood | Budget | Calgary's oldest neighbourhood, offering a bohemian charm with vintage shops, art galleries, and live music venues. | culturefoodies |
Downtown | Mid-range | The bustling commercial and cultural heart of Calgary, filled with skyscrapers, offices, and key attractions. | first-timersculture |
Kensington | Mid-range | A trendy and eclectic neighbourhood with independent shops, cafes, and a lively atmosphere. | foodiescouples |
Beltline | Mid-range | A densely populated, vibrant urban area known for its diverse restaurants, bars, and active nightlife. | nightlifefoodies |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Calgary
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Calgary
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Calgary. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Calgary
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Calgary
Inglewood
BudgetCalgary's oldest neighbourhood, offering a bohemian charm with vintage shops, art galleries, and live music venues.
- +Historic character and independent businesses
- +Great live music scene and pubs
- +Proximity to the Bow River and parks
- -Can feel a bit spread out
- -Public transport connections are less frequent than downtown
Downtown
Mid-rangeThe bustling commercial and cultural heart of Calgary, filled with skyscrapers, offices, and key attractions.
- +Central location with easy access to attractions
- +Good public transport links
- +Wide range of dining and shopping options
- -Can feel deserted in the evenings and on weekends
- -Higher hotel prices
Kensington
Mid-rangeA trendy and eclectic neighbourhood with independent shops, cafes, and a lively atmosphere.
- +Vibrant street life and unique boutiques
- +Excellent dining and bar scene
- +Pleasant riverside walking paths nearby
- -Can be crowded on weekends
- -Limited direct public transport to some outer areas
Beltline
Mid-rangeA densely populated, vibrant urban area known for its diverse restaurants, bars, and active nightlife.
- +Extensive dining and nightlife options
- +Walkable to many amenities
- +Good transit access
- -Can be noisy, especially on weekends
- -Parking can be challenging
Daily Budget (Budget)
CAD 100/day
Hidden Gems in Calgary
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Farmers' Market - Calgary Farmers' Market South
Experience the vibrant heart of Calgary's local food scene with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delicious prepared foods from numerous vendors.
Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters (Kensington)
Known for their meticulously sourced and expertly brewed coffee, this popular local spot offers a refined cafe experience in the trendy Kensington neighborhood.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Calgary
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Calgary Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Calgary on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Calgary Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Calgary with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Calgary: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Calgary's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Calgary: Scenic Excursion
Escape Calgary for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Calgary Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Calgary's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Calgary
Backpackers in Calgary: FAQ
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