Calgary is travel hot spot with Canadians flocking to the city in June: Skyscanner trending travel destination

While many Canadians may think of international destinations for their summer vacation, this travel season is off to a more local start, with Calgary, Alta., showing up as a hot spot for travellers. Information provided to Yahoo Canada by Skyscanner revealed that there has been a 39 per cent year-over-year increase in flight searches to Calgary in May, from Canadian airports.

According to a Skyscanner survey, 81 per cent of Canadians indicated they planned to take a domestic holiday in the spring and summer months. Known for its beautiful mountains and landscape, Alberta seems to be the place travellers are flocking to.

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Why is Calgary, Alberta, such a popular destination for Canadian travellers?

From outdoor markets and festivals, including the Calgary Folk Music Festival and JazzYYC, summer is a particularly appealing time to travel to Calgary, in addition to its proximity to the Canadian Rockies.

“Calgary is the perfect destination for nature lovers,” Laura Lindsay, Skyscanner’s travel trends and destinations expert, highlighted. “Just a short drive away from Canada’s iconic Rockies, there are endless opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, camping and spotting the nearby wildlife.”

How much does it cost to go to Calgary, Alberta in June from Canadian cities?

Using Skyscanner search data for flights to Calgary, roundtrip from Canadian airports, flights from Toronto in June are currently as low as $184.

Travelling from Vancouver to Calgary, roundtrip flights are as low as $106 from June 8 to June 15, and from Montreal flights are about $400 for a trip near the end of the month.

Don’t forget to check the Skyscanner site for live pricing.

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3 expert tips on what to do in Calgary, Alberta

One of the most notable events in the city is the Calgary Stampede, which takes place from July 5 to July 14 this year, but heading to the city in June will let visitors experience the pre-Stampede events.

“The Calgary Stampede is one of the best and most exciting outdoor shows on earth,” Lindsay highlighted. “Enjoy rodeo competitions, chuckwagon races, concerts, delicious food, and lively entertainment throughout the city during this iconic event, with your best cowboy hat, of course.”

For history buffs, Heritage Park Historical Village is a great stop in the city.

“This park offers a glimpse into Western Canada’s past with over 180 exhibits, including historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and vintage rides,” Lindsay highlighted. “In June, you can enjoy special events and interactive activities that showcase the region’s rich heritage.”

While Banff is outside of Calgary, this destination is a must-see stop. There’s a reason so many people travel to Banff National Park all year round, often referred to as the most beautiful place in the world.

“Just a short drive from Calgary, you’ll have the chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies, with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, boating on the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, and taking in breathtaking mountain vistas,” Lindsay said.

Where to stay in Calgary, Alberta

In you’re staying in the city, the four-star Fairmont Palliser is the perfect historic and luxurious stay that’s been in operation for more than 100 years, and close to attractions like Calgary Tower and Calgary Zoo. It also has then Royal Suite where Queen Elizabeth II stayed on her 1990 visit to Calgary. Guests can enjoy spa treatments at the rnr Wellness spa and the Hawthorn Dining Room & Bar for a great meal.

Hotel Arts Kensington was designed by award-winning architect Richard Lindseth, transformed into a European-style boutique hotel in 2007. Guests have access to a poolside patio and the hotel has a bike program to experience the Kensington neighbourhood and Bow River pathways.

While not in Calgary, Fairmont Banff Springs is the “it” hotel to stay in for anyone taking the trip outside the city. Referred to as the “Castle in the Rockies,” the hotel is located in the heart of Banff National Park and has welcomed guests since 1888. It has a a 27-hole championship golf course, and guests can look out at the Rockies from the whirlpool and spa terrance.

Travelling to Alberta during wildfire concerns

While there is plenty to see in Alberta, hot and dry conditions present wildfire risks in the province.

Currently, the wildfires in the Calgary Forest Area are considered, “under control,” but travellers to the region should always check wildfire status information in the province before travelling, and while in the area.

Tips for finding the cheapest flights

If flight costs are getting you down, there are a few things Canadian travellers can do to ensure they’re getting the best deal possible for their next vacation, both on the Skyscanner platform specifically and when looking for flights more generally.

• Beat the crowds: For flights that are filling up fast, you’ll want to make sure you’re looking at the monthly view on travel search sites like Skyscanner to see the best possible option available for flight dates.

• Set up alerts: Prices are always changing, so if you’re hoping to travel to a specific destination, or on specific dates, set up a price alert so you can be quick if a deal comes up. Skyscanner specifically has a price alerts system for any cost changes.

• Consider “Everywhere”: If you’re hoping for a new adventure, or a little rest and relaxation, but you don’t have a specific destination in mind, the “Everywhere” search on Skyscanner may be your new best friend to discover the most affordable vacation destination possible.

• Flexible dates: There may be certain times where you need to travel for specific dates, but the best deals are really revealed when you open yourself up to some flexibility. Even changing your travel dates by a day, or a week, can result in significant savings.