Nestled in the Canadian prairies, Calgary is a youthful city that’s brimming with fun and exciting things to do. With its proximity to Banff and its location at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers, Calgary offers endless opportunities for nature and adventure. And if it’s Canadian culture you’re after, Calgary plays host to the famous Calgary Stampede rodeo, carnival, and music festival in July each year!

Calgary’s name originates from Old Norse, literally meaning “cold garden.” If you visit in the winter, you’ll see why! Soft blankets of snow, ice skating ponds, and frosted tree branches give the city its own idyllic atmosphere. Summers give way to yellow grass and prairie sunshine, perfect for alfresco concerts and outdoor adventure. 

In this small, rapidly growing metropolis, you’ll find fine dining, craft breweries, and plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy. With a reasonable cost of living and plenty of new development, more and more folks have been flocking here over the past decade. After all, Calgary is ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world!

With so many things to see and do, you’ll want a nice hotel room to come back to at the end of an adventure-filled day. Luckily, Calgary is home to all sorts of artsy boutique retreats and amenity-packed luxury hotels. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Calgary to help you plan your perfect getaway!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 12 Cool Boutique Hotels in Calgary, AB

Where to stay in Calgary

You might be wondering where to stay in Calgary. Central downtown is where the best hotels in Calgary are, and you’ll be spoiled for choice with all of the boutique and high-end options! 

Also known as the downtown core, this area was built for nightlife and business travel. This makes it perfect for those wanting to get a taste of the city while being surrounded by all of the dining options, museums, art galleries, and shopping destinations on the bustling city streets.

If you’re looking for something a little quieter or more historic, Kensington is also a great place to base yourself. This neighborhood is over 100 years old and has the brick to prove it! Some of the city’s best cafes and boutiques are located in this area, and it’s only a short walk over the iconic Peace Bridge to get downtown from here.

Now, if you want to stay in the newest, hippest part of town, check out East Village. This neighborhood is located in downtown’s east end. Here, you’ll find historic factory buildings that have been converted into roasteries and shops. East Village is full of public art installations and community spaces like the Central Library and destinations like Studio Bell.

The most desirable places to stay in Calgary are in and around these three areas. You really can’t go wrong since each location is walkable, bustling with activity, and filled with amenities like public gardens and heated walkways!

The 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Calgary

1. Hotel Le Germain Calgary

This is one of our favorite hotels in Calgary! You’ll love the stylish, modern furnishings and fixtures. Especially of note is the Prestige Room, our top pick, which features a double-sink bath and a soaker tub that fills from above, all while offering a panoramic view of the city center.

If that’s not your style, the Signature Room features an ultra-comfy bed and a deluxe bathroom with a relaxing rainfall shower. Regardless of which room you choose, you’ll find luxury features like 10-foot ceilings, lovely linens, and plenty of space to just get comfortable and watch movies at night.

This boutique hotel is also equipped with a beautiful cocktail bar, a locally-sourced roast house, and a full gym and luxury spa. 

From Hotel Le Germain, you can get a great view of the city from a central location right in the heart of Calgary. As one of the best hotels in Calgary, Hotel Le Germain is located just a few minutes’ walk from landmarks like the Calgary Tower, Olympic Plaza, and Stephen Avenue. Plus, you’ll find museums and art galleries right next door!

2. Hotel Arts Kensington

Hotel Arts Kensington is easily one of the best Calgary hotels. It features truly unique design-centric spaces and makes good on the emphasis on artistry in its name.

With only 19 guest rooms and suites, you’ll find that it also offers privacy and comfort in one of Calgary’s most coveted downtown locations, right next to the Bow River. Plus, you’ll get beautiful views of the iconic Peace Bridge, Prince’s Island Park, and the city skyline.

Every room option features stunning interior design, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a French balcony. We especially love the beds’ luxuriously high, tufted headboards and triple-sheeted linens. You’ll also find that the bathrooms are beautifully appointed with six-foot soaker tubs and rainfall showerheads. We personally appreciate the skoah bath amenities that add a special extra touch!

If you want to indulge a little, the Luxury Suite contains a functional gas fireplace, a beautiful seating area, and a serene private balcony. These rooms are perfect for longer stays or special occasions. With so many incredible amenities, you’ll never want to leave!

Hotel Arts Kensington is truly one of the coolest hotels in Calgary. Located just across the river from the downtown business district, you’ll find the historic Kensington neighborhood to be calm and quiet while being home to charming cafes and a range of dining options.

3. Westmount River Inn

This specialty B&B-style boutique hotel is one of the best places to stay in Calgary. Westmount River Inn is a historic manor property situated right across from the Bow River. This property was a local carpenter’s labor of love. Now, it has a new life as one of the most unique hotels in Calgary.

We love its unique charm and warm vintage decor. There is truly no other lodging quite like it! The inn features a beautifully appointed kitchen, various sitting areas, and a drawing room equipped with a grand piano. Plus, the beautiful hardwood floors and oak furniture give Westmount real character.

You’ll find that rooms are incredibly spacious, each one having its own distinct features. Built-in bookshelves, private balconies, and curated artwork are some of the unique touches you might find in your suite. We personally love the Luxury Suite, which comes equipped with a spacious two-basin washroom, spa bath, and brick fireplace.

The Westmount is located a short walk away from Kensington, a historic neighborhood with plenty of shopping and dining options nearby. Book in advance because availability is very limited!

4. Alt Hotel Calgary East Village

Alt Hotel Calgary East Village is located in the city’s coolest neighborhood – fitting for one of Calgary’s coolest boutique hotels. Alt Calgary’s minimalist aesthetic is perfect for the no-nonsense visitor who wants to marry form and function.

This boutique hotel feels like it was designed for travelers with work to do. Amenities like an ergonomic workstation, laptop desk, and Italian armchair perfect for reading will help you stay on track in comfort. These, alongside amenities like a rainfall shower, goose down duvet, and Egyptian cotton linens, mean you can luxuriate after a long day!

If you think you’ll want more space to stretch out, we’d recommend the Corner Room, which also features wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of light and give you an unobstructed view of Calgary’s bustling downtown. Another option to consider is the King Bedroom with River View Room, which offers a panoramic view of the Bow River to the west.

East Village was designed with community in mind and features cycling paths, public art, and community spaces. You’ll find the Central Library and Studio Bell right around the corner, sitting alongside preserved heritage buildings that now house Calgary’s newest and hottest restaurants and cafes!

5. Fairmont Palliser

Fairmont Palliser is Calgary’s premier landmark hotel. It’s located in the heart of downtown, right next to the Calgary Tower. You’ll be able to walk to the city’s greatest attractions, restaurants, and lounges. Plus, both Teatro and Orchard are minutes away, offering some of the best dining options Calgary has to offer. 

Personally, we love the Fairmont Palliser for its classic furnishings and sense of old-world charm. The service here is impeccable, with valet parking, laundry services, and top-notch staff. If you want a traditional 5-star experience, this is the best hotel in Calgary.

The Fairmont Palliser offers elegant suites and rooms. We love the warmth of the leather, drapery, and antique wood – it’s luxury, but a luxury you can sink into and get cozy with!

Booking one of the Fairmont Gold rooms is a worthwhile consideration if you want the full VIP experience. You’ll get a personal concierge and access to the exclusive Gold Lounge alongside other excellent additions to your room.

Order fine dining right to your room if you want a little R&R time, then settle in with a selection of fine wines and cocktails. The Hawthorn Dining Room & Bar also serves an amazing weekend brunch that’s well worth trying, even if you’re not staying here.

6. The Westley Calgary Downtown

The Westley Calgary Downtown is part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection of hotels. This location has a unique mid-century modern vibe that evokes vintage elegance mixed with a modern sensibility. There’s no other place quite like this in Calgary, and we love the modern twist on traditional luxury hotel services.

Each room is beautifully appointed with stylish furnishings that evoke an architect’s sensibility. The Revel One-Bedroom Suite, in particular, is perfect if you’re in town for a special occasion. Whip up a drink at the wet bar, lounge on the mid-century armchair, then take a dip in the free-standing soaker tub.

Enjoy waking up to a wall-to-wall view of the city skyline, then get some writing done at the ample built-in desk before traipsing right into the heart of downtown for a night on the town.

If you don’t want to go out, Fonda Flora is right downstairs and serves up a seasonal menu consisting of Mexican-inspired dishes and fantastic cocktails, all incorporating flavors from the Yucatan Peninsula.

The Westley is one of the most stylish hotels in Calgary. It is perfect if you have a boutique sensibility but want true luxury service.

7. Residence Inn Calgary Downtown/Beltline District

The Residence Inn by Marriott in Calgary’s downtown Beltline District is the perfect hotel for long-term stays in the best location in the city. Beltline is an exceptional downtown district, offering unique, upscale dining and shopping options.

You have the choice between a beautiful open-plan studio or a 1-bedroom king suite. Regardless of what you pick, these rooms are among the most spacious and accessible you’ll find in Calgary. The mountain view rooms are standouts and feature floor-to-ceiling windows that look out to the Canadian Rockies.

Every contemporary suite offers a fully-equipped kitchen, so you can prepare your own meals and entertain in a separate living space. You’ll also have plenty of room to work and an in-suite coffee maker for those late nights or early mornings. Don’t worry about cleaning up, either, because there’s a dishwasher.

These suits were tailor-made for families and long-term stays. They offer all the creature comforts of home while being situated in the best part of downtown.

8. Homewood Suites by Hilton Calgary Downtown

True to its name, Homewood Suites by Hilton comes as close to home as possible with a location that offers the best of Calgary. This hotel is located just five minutes away from St. Patrick’s Island Park, making it ideal for outdoor adventures and river strolls.

Rooms are decorated with a mid-century sensibility, a mix of modern and classic that ends up feeling warm yet sophisticated. Amenities include a plush and comfortable bed, a full-sized kitchen, and an HDTV.

Pets are welcome, and a complimentary hot breakfast is served every morning. If you’d prefer to cook it up yourself, Homewood Suites even offers a complimentary grocery shopping service!

The most common rafting route down the Bow River ends just past St. Patrick’s Island Park, meaning you can go right from rafting to the comfort of your fully-equipped suite in minutes. If you prefer to stay in, you can enjoy the indoor pool and fitness center.

This location is great for families, as you’ll have ready access to outdoor space. Plus, you’ll be within walking distance to the Central Library, Glenbow Museum, and Theatre Calgary.

9. Hotel Arts

Just like Hotel Arts Kensington, Hotel Arts offers designer guest rooms and boutique luxury. What makes this one of the most unique hotels in Calgary is the pool oasis, perfect for when you want to say goodbye to Calgary’s winter chill and get an early slice of summer!

Every room is equipped with a very comfortable bed and sophisticated decor, smart functionality, and fine linens. A Keurig coffee maker, complimentary high-speed internet, and an ergonomic workstation mean you don’t have to choose between form and function.

The Pool View Suite is perfect for a city getaway. You can enjoy a two-person rain and steam shower, a wet bar, and a soundproof balcony. Luxury bathrobes and Italian marble in the bathrooms just add that extra special touch. Plus, the room overlooks the hotel’s oasis and patio!

Located in Calgary’s most walkable location, you’ll find iconic dining locations like Ten Foot Henry and Native Tongues Taqueria steps away. This is one of the coolest boutique hotels in Calgary, and it’s in a truly perfect location for a special occasion or staycation. 

10. The Dorian Autograph Collection

The Dorian Autograph Collection offers more than just a touch of European charm. It’s easily one of the most unique hotels in Calgary for style alone.

We love The Dorian for its inspired decor. From vintage-patterned wallpaper to a French armoire and art deco bar cart, these rooms have personality in spades. Channel your inner Jay Gatsby, and pour yourself a drink before settling into the plush sofa and looking out over the skyline.

Every room is equipped with Turkish linens, spacious walk-in showers, and premium coffee in case you need a pick-me-up after a long night. The Wilde lounge is ultra-chic and ultra-comfy. Perched on the 27^th floor, it’s the perfect place to hang out and have a cocktail with friends.

Located in central downtown, you’ll find Stephen Avenue’s lounges and restaurants right outside. The CORE center right around the block offers an upscale shopping experience. You should also check out the OEB Breakfast Co. Downtown for the perfect Sunday brunch spot!

11. Hyatt Regency Calgary

The Hyatt Regency is another great hotel in the heart of downtown Calgary. The service is 5-star impeccable, rooms are spacious, and beautiful art lines the halls.

We love the special touches like the lit headboard, built-in wooden furnishings, and chic granite tabletops. The picture windows provide a lovely view of downtown, and features like heated floors and a plush but firm bed make this an incredibly comfortable stay.

You’ll have plenty of desk space here. And, in case you have administrative responsibilities to attend to, the business center is open 24/7, offering equipment rentals, shipping and handling, and faxing services.

A unique feature of this hotel is the serene indoor pool on the 18th floor, which offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city. If you’re looking for purposeful pampering, check in at the world-class Stillwater Spa, which offers full beauty services alongside special treatments.

Thomsons offers an excellent brunch buffet. Plus, the Hyatt Regency Calgary is located steps away from the Calgary Tower, and you’ll find Calgary’s historic Chinatown a few blocks away.  Make sure to check out the Devonian Gardens while you’re here!

12. Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel

The Marriott in downtown Calgary was recently redesigned, making a great hotel in an excellent location even better! If you’re coming to town for the Calgary Stampede or a conference, this is one of the best places to stay in Calgary. You’ll be an easy 10-minute walk from the Stampede grounds and the BMO Convention Center.

Rooms are spacious and comfortable, furnished in a minimal and contemporary style. The wall-to-wall windows offer a lovely view of the city, and blackout curtains ensure you won’t be disturbed in the mornings. We appreciate that there are plenty of outlets here for devices and an ergonomic workstation!

With three dining and bar options, you’re spoiled for choice here. We recommend the DIY Smoked Old Fashioned at ONE18 Empire in particular and anything on their excellent breakfast menu!

The fitness center is open 24/7 and has everything you need to work up a sweat. You’ll also find a beautiful river walk right outside, along with the best dining options that Calgary has to offer.

That completes our list of the 12 best Calgary hotels! Did we miss any cool boutique hotels in Calgary? Comment below so we can add them to the list! 

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