@HelloAngelia's Ultimate Guide to Banff National Park: 5 Days of Must-Sees, Hidden Gems & Travel Highlights

Are you planning a winter trip to Banff National Park and wondering which spots are actually worth it and which ones you'll regret skipping? Trying to make sure you don’t miss out on the iconic views, bucket list adventures, and Instagram-worthy photo ops?

Well, if you answered yes, then this blog is for you!

With so much to see, it’s easy to miss the best parts, so don’t waste your time guessing. We’ll show you exactly what you can’t miss to make your trip unforgettable with this 5 Day Itinerary.

We’re Angelia Untung and Chris Wong (@helloangelia), full-time travel creators with 250K+ followers across our social media accounts, and we just returned from the most magical 5-day winter trip through Banff and Lake Louise.

This place holds a special spot in our hearts (we got engaged on Lake Louise!), so we wanted to share our trip packed with iconic sights, cozy eats, and exclusive experiences—yes, including dog sledding and ice skating on the very lake where Angelia said “yes”.

Here’s our exact itinerary, plus helpful tips along the way so you can make the most of every moment—camera-ready, stress-free, and memory-worthy.

Jump ahead:

• Day 1: Arrival + Iconic Lake Louise Stay
• Day 2: Lakeside Winter Wonderland
• Day 3: Ski Slopes & Downtown Banff
• Day 4: Dog Sledding & Spa Evening
• Day 5: Scenic Sights Before Your Flight

Day 1: Arrival + Iconic Lake Louise Stay

Must-dos: Block Kitchen, Ice Bar, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

First, you’ll land in Calgary and drive straight into the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Kick off your trip in Banff town with a bite at the cozy Block Kitchen + Bar—their Asian fusion dishes are comforting on a cold, winter day.

From there, drive the scenic route to Lake Louise and check in at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. This is one of the most iconic winter stays in the world, and it's 100% worth it.

We also loved grabbing a cocktail at their Ice Bar before enjoying delicious Swiss fondue at Walliser Stube - try their Buttered Lobster Fondue and Bailey's Milk Chocolate Fondue! It’s the perfect way to kick off your winter getaway, and don’t forget to make a reservation in advance!

Day 2: Lakeside Winter Wonderland

Must-dos: Lakeview Lounge, Ice Skating, Snowshoe Tour, Fairview

Waking up to Lake Louise was honestly unreal. Staying at this hotel means enjoying stunning lake and alpine views every day.

We recommend getting room-service breakfast to fuel up before ice skating right on the lake—it is as magical as it sounds. You can also rent skates in the lobby!

Next, head indoors for lunch at Lakeview Lounge while enjoying stunning views. The food was incredible, and we recommend getting the Coquilles St Jacques Gratinées, Prawn & Scallop Mafaldine Pasta, and Steak Au Poivre.

In the afternoon, join a guided snowshoe tour for a peaceful trek through snow-covered forests and untouched trails to learn about animal tracking and the ecosystem from a local expert. You will need proper snow attire (jacket, pants, and shoes), but they will provide the rest!

Cap off your night with a delicious dinner and drinks at the Fairview. This hotel seriously has some of the best restaurants we’ve eaten in Banff National Park. We definitely recommend getting the Charred Arctic Char and Lobster Risotto Bianca!

Day 3: Ski Slopes & Downtown Banff

Must-dos: Lake Louise Ski Resort, Otter Hotel, Good Folk

Now it’s time to hit the slopes!

Banff is home to three incredible ski resorts, but we chose Lake Louise Ski Resort because of the breathtaking views alone. If you’re new to skiing (like us!), they even offer beginner-friendly lessons. You can also rent your equipment at the resort! If you're looking for an even more beginner-friendly spot, check out Sunshine Ski Village Resort. They offer dedicated learning areas, beginner-friendly lifts like the Strawberry Express, and a resort layout that keeps beginner areas closer to the village. If you need help planning your trip, check out our itinerary.

Then headed back to Banff town and checked into The Otter Hotel, a modern boutique stay in the heart of the town. Make sure to book a balcony room with mountain views.

We ended the perfect day grabbing dinner at Good Folk, a cozy spot right at the hotel. We highly recommend getting their Alberta Wild Boar Chop, Seared Hokkaido Scallops, & Smoked Pork Belly!

Day 4: Dog Sledding & Spa Evening

Must-dos: Snowy Owl Tours, Fairmont Banff Springs

Start your fourth day with the most unique morning ride with Snowy Owl Dog Sled Tours. It’s limited capacity and guided, so don’t worry, you will be safe the entire time!

Chris even learned how to drive his own sled, while I stayed nice and cozy in the sled. Don’t forget to bundle up and wear warm clothes for this activity!

Later, grab coffee and pastries from Good Earth Café and enjoy pre-dinner aperitivo at The Fat Ox. We loved the Rigatoni Carbonara, Bison Tagliatelle, and Ricotta Gnocchi!

Then it’s time to relax. Soak in the steamy mineral pools and enjoy a spa treatment at the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs. We personally did a pedicure and had the most relaxing experience!

For your final dinner in Banff, head to Chuck’s Steakhouse. You can’t go wrong with any of their Alberta beef dishes and tasty cocktails. Just remember to end your meal with a yummy vanilla crème brûlée!

Day 5: Scenic Sights Before Your Flight

Must-dos: Mt. Norquay Tube Park, Surprise Corner

Before you head home, there is still time for fun and photo ops.

Start your day right by tubing down Alberta’s longest tube lanes at Mt. Norquay’s Tube Park. This was by far one of the most fun activities we did in Banff!

Then, explore the town one last time and visit these iconic photo stops:

• Surprise Corner Lookout (it lives up to its name!) - A must-visit viewpoint offering dramatic views of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.
• Cascade of Time Garden - Charming garden near downtown Banff with stunning mountain views.
• Bow Falls - Easy-to-access waterfall near town with powerful rapids and a scenic lookout.
• Banff Pedestrian Bridge - Wooden bridge over the Bow River with beautiful views of Mount Rundle.

Tip: Arrive early in the morning or visit on weekdays clearer shots.

Final Thoughts

If you're planning a trip to Banff and Lake Louise in the winter, this 5-day itinerary balances luxury, adventure, and all the things to do, without the stress.

We enjoyed every moment during our winter wonderland getaway, and we’re so excited for you to experience the magic Banff National Park has to offer in the winter.

Want to steal this exact trip and make your own updates? Find our full itinerary below based on this guide and easily swap experiences in and out to match your travel style!