calgary

Calgary is a Canadian city in Alberta, known for its cowboy culture, proximity to the Rocky Mountains, and thriving economy.

CanadaCalgary
3 days

About calgary

About calgary - Culture, History & Character

City Description

Calgary is a Canadian city located in the province of Alberta, recognized for being the third largest city in Canada and an important economic and cultural center. Located at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers, it is located in southwest Alberta, near the Rocky Mountains, which gives it a privileged natural landscape and access to national parks such as Banff and Jasper. With a population of approximately 1.3 million in the city and nearly 1.5 million in its metropolitan area, Calgary stands out for its economic dynamism based on sectors such as energy, finance, technology, manufacturing and tourism. It is famous for its Western culture, especially the annual Calgary Stampede festival, which celebrates cowboy tradition with rodeos and cultural events. Furthermore, Calgary is a modern city with a well-planned infrastructure, which combines its pioneering past with contemporary urban development, being a benchmark in quality of life and sustainability in North America.
Country
Canada
Region
Calgary
Highlights
16+ Attractions

Population

Calgary has an approximate population of 1,306,784 inhabitants in the city and around 1,481,806 in its metropolitan area, being the third largest city in Canada and an important urban center in the province of Alberta.

Languages

English

English is the primary and official language in Calgary, with a high level of proficiency among the population. There are also communities that speak French and other minority languages ​​due to the cultural and migratory diversity of the city.

History of calgary

Explore the fascinating past of calgary and discover how it has developed over the centuries.

Historical Journey

Ancient Period

Before the arrival of Europeans, the area where Calgary is located today was inhabited by indigenous peoples such as the Nakoda, Tsuu T'ina and Blackfoot people, who lived by hunting and gathering on the grasslands and rivers of the region. These groups developed a rich culture based on the connection with nature and the sustainable use of local resources.

Development Period

In 1875, Fort Calgary was established as a North West Mounted Police post to control the region and facilitate European settlement. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Calgary grew rapidly thanks to the arrival of the railroad and agricultural and ranching development. The city established itself as a commercial and transportation center in the Canadian Prairie region, with sustained urban growth and the construction of key infrastructure.

Modern Period

In the 20th century, Calgary experienced an economic boom fueled by the oil industry, which transformed its economy and demographics. In 1988, it hosted the Winter Olympic Games, which enhanced its international projection. In recent decades, Calgary has diversified its economy into sectors such as technology, finance and tourism, while maintaining modern and sustainable urban growth. Today, it is recognized as one of the most livable and prosperous cities in Canada and North America.

Historical Timeline

The historical timeline shows the key moments that have defined the development of calgary through the centuries.

City Scores

City Scores

Discover what makes this city special with our comprehensive scoring system

Safety

Excellent
85100

Calgary is a safe city in general, although caution is advised in certain areas at night.

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Calgary is a safe city in general, although caution is advised in certain areas at night.

Advantages:
  • Low violent crime rates.
  • Local police accessible and visible.
Challenges:
  • Some areas such as East Village and parts of Forest Lawn require increased caution at night.
  • Minor theft and vandalism may occur.

Walkability

Good
68100

Downtown Calgary is walkable, but many neighborhoods are designed for cars and distances can be long.

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Downtown Calgary is walkable, but many neighborhoods are designed for cars and distances can be long.

Advantages:
  • Compact city center and easy to navigate on foot.
  • Pedestrian paths along the river and in parks.
Challenges:
  • Scattered and poorly walkable residential neighborhoods.
  • Cold and snowy winters make walking difficult.

Public Transport

Good
70100

Calgary has a light rail (CTrain) system and buses, but the city is designed for car use and public transportation may be limited in some areas.

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Calgary has a light rail (CTrain) system and buses, but the city is designed for car use and public transportation may be limited in some areas.

Advantages:
  • Efficient CTrain in the center and main routes.
  • Affordable rates and monthly pass plans.
Challenges:
  • Limited coverage in peripheral neighborhoods.
  • Reduced frequencies on weekends and nights.

Affordability

Fair
50100

An expensive destination: lodging and nightlife add up; use public transport and set menus.

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An expensive destination: lodging and nightlife add up; use public transport and set menus.

Advantages:
  • No provincial sales tax, reducing cost of living.
  • Cheaper housing than in other large Canadian cities.
Challenges:
  • Rents and housing prices on the rise.
  • Monthly cost of living for one person can exceed $3,000 CAD, which can be high for low salaries.

Nightlife

Good
74100

Nightlife in Calgary is active, especially in areas such as 17th Avenue (Red Mile), with bars, pubs and clubs, although it is not as vibrant as in larger cities.

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Nightlife in Calgary is active, especially in areas such as 17th Avenue (Red Mile), with bars, pubs and clubs, although it is not as vibrant as in larger cities.

Advantages:
  • Popular bar and restaurant areas such as 17th Avenue.
  • Events and festivals during the summer.
Challenges:
  • More limited nighttime offer than in Toronto or Montreal.
  • Some places close early, especially in winter.

Art & Culture

Good
72100

Calgary offers an active cultural scene with museums, galleries and festivals, although it is not as vibrant as in larger cities.

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Calgary offers an active cultural scene with museums, galleries and festivals, although it is not as vibrant as in larger cities.

Advantages:
  • Important museums such as the Glenbow Museum and Studio Bell.
  • Annual festivals such as the Calgary Folk Music Festival.
Challenges:
  • Less cultural offering than in Toronto or Montreal.
  • Cultural events sometimes limited by winter weather.

Food Scene

Good
76100

Calgary's dining scene is diverse, with multicultural influences and options from street food to gourmet restaurants. Alberta beef stands out.

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Calgary's dining scene is diverse, with multicultural influences and options from street food to gourmet restaurants. Alberta beef stands out.

Advantages:
  • Wide variety of international and local restaurants.
  • Famous for its beef and typical western dishes.
Challenges:
  • Restaurant prices can be high compared to other Canadian cities.
  • Fewer fine dining options than in Toronto or Vancouver.

Shopping

Good
75100

Calgary offers a good variety of shopping centers, boutiques and markets, although it is not a luxury shopping destination like Toronto.

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Calgary offers a good variety of shopping centers, boutiques and markets, although it is not a luxury shopping destination like Toronto.

Advantages:
  • Large shopping centers such as Chinook Center and Market Mall.
  • Local markets and specialty stores.
Challenges:
  • Limited luxury brand offering.
  • Some shopping areas may be far from the center.

Weather

Good
65100

Calgary has a continental climate, with cold, snowy winters and warm, sunny summers. Sudden temperature changes are common.

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Calgary has a continental climate, with cold, snowy winters and warm, sunny summers. Sudden temperature changes are common.

Advantages:
  • Pleasant summers with many hours of sun.
  • Dry and sunny winters, ideal for snow sports.
Challenges:
  • Long and very cold winters, with temperatures below zero.
  • Sudden changes in weather, even on the same day.

Tourist Friendly

Excellent
81100

Calgary is a tourist-friendly city, with good infrastructure, tourist information, and annual events like the Stampede.

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Calgary is a tourist-friendly city, with good infrastructure, tourist information, and annual events like the Stampede.

Advantages:
  • Accessible tourist information center.
  • Events and festivals that attract visitors.
Challenges:
  • Some attractions may be far from the center.
  • Winter weather can limit tourist activities.

Family Friendly

Excellent
82100

Calgary is a very family-friendly city, with parks, outdoor activities and good schools, although the cost of daycare can be high.

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Calgary is a very family-friendly city, with parks, outdoor activities and good schools, although the cost of daycare can be high.

Advantages:
  • Wide range of parks and activities for children.
  • Quality educational system.
Challenges:
  • Cost of daycare and extracurricular activities can be high.
  • Long, cold winters limit outdoor activities for part of the year.

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Excellent
80100

Calgary is an inclusive and open city, with an active LGBTQ+ community and events like Calgary Pride.

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Calgary is an inclusive and open city, with an active LGBTQ+ community and events like Calgary Pride.

Advantages:
  • Visible LGBTQ+ community and annual events.
  • Generally tolerant and safe environment.
Challenges:
  • Less LGBTQ+ nightlife than in Toronto or Vancouver.
  • Some neighborhoods may be more conservative.

Local Friendly

Excellent
83100

Calgarians are known for their friendliness and community spirit, especially during events like the Stampede.

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Calgarians are known for their friendliness and community spirit, especially during events like the Stampede.

Advantages:
  • Friendly and welcoming people, especially with visitors.
  • Strong sense of community in neighborhoods and events.
Challenges:
  • In winter, social life may be more limited.
  • Some neighborhoods may be less accessible to newcomers.

Natural Beauty

Excellent
90100

Calgary is surrounded by spectacular scenery, with the Rocky Mountains just an hour's drive away and numerous city parks.

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Calgary is surrounded by spectacular scenery, with the Rocky Mountains just an hour's drive away and numerous city parks.

Advantages:
  • Panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains.
  • Rivers, parks and trails within the city.
Challenges:
  • Occasional smog can affect visibility.
  • Cold weather limits the enjoyment of nature in winter.

Architecture

Good
70100

Calgary's architecture mixes modern skyscrapers with historic buildings and traditional residential neighborhoods. The skyline is impressive, but it lacks the density of historical styles of older cities.

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Calgary's architecture mixes modern skyscrapers with historic buildings and traditional residential neighborhoods. The skyline is impressive, but it lacks the density of historical styles of older cities.

Advantages:
  • Modern skyline with iconic towers such as the Calgary Tower.
  • Well-planned and spacious residential neighborhoods.
Challenges:
  • Lack of historic buildings compared to cities in eastern Canada.
  • Predominance of commercial and corporate architecture in the center.

Historical Significance

Good
65100

Calgary has a history linked to railways, ranching and oil, but it is not a city with ancient historical monuments.

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Calgary has a history linked to railways, ranching and oil, but it is not a city with ancient historical monuments.

Advantages:
  • Museums and historic towns like Heritage Park.
  • Rodeo tradition and cowboy culture.
Challenges:
  • Lack of old historic buildings.
  • Recent history compared to cities in eastern Canada.

Green Spaces

Excellent
88100

Calgary is notable for its numerous urban parks, trails and proximity to nature, including Fish Creek Provincial Park and parks along the Bow River.

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Calgary is notable for its numerous urban parks, trails and proximity to nature, including Fish Creek Provincial Park and parks along the Bow River.

Advantages:
  • More than 8,000 hectares of parks and green spaces.
  • Easy access to walking, running and biking trails.
Challenges:
  • Some parks may be covered in snow in winter.
  • Distance to national parks requires transportation.

Cleanliness

Excellent
85100

Calgary is a clean city, with well-maintained streets and manicured parks, although in winter snow can temporarily affect cleanliness.

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Calgary is a clean city, with well-maintained streets and manicured parks, although in winter snow can temporarily affect cleanliness.

Advantages:
  • Streets and public spaces generally clean.
  • Well-kept urban parks.
Challenges:
  • Accumulation of snow and ice in winter can make cleaning difficult.
  • Some peripheral areas may be less served.

Startup Scene

Good
72100

The startup ecosystem in Calgary is growing, with government support and innovation spaces, although it is still behind Toronto or Vancouver.

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The startup ecosystem in Calgary is growing, with government support and innovation spaces, although it is still behind Toronto or Vancouver.

Advantages:
  • Support for entrepreneurs and incubation programs.
  • Competitive office and coworking space costs.
Challenges:
  • Less investment and risk capital than in other large cities.
  • Lack of startup density compared to Toronto.

Digital Nomad Friendly

Good
78100

Calgary is a good option for digital nomads, with good connectivity, coworking spaces and quality of life, although cost can be a factor.

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Calgary is a good option for digital nomads, with good connectivity, coworking spaces and quality of life, although cost can be a factor.

Advantages:
  • Good internet infrastructure and coworking spaces.
  • Safe city with good quality of life.
Challenges:
  • Cost of living can be high for freelancers with variable income.
  • Cold winter weather can limit outdoor activities.

Overall City Score

Comprehensive assessment of this destination

77/ 100

Weather & Climate

Descubre las mejores épocas para visitar calgary y qué esperar durante todo el año.

Monthly Temperatures

January

Max-1°
Min-14°

February

Max0°
Min-12°

March

Max5°
Min-6°

April

Max12°
Min-1°

May

Max18°
Min4°

June

Max22°
Min9°

July

Max25°
Min12°

August

Max24°
Min11°

September

Max19°
Min6°

October

Max12°
Min0°

November

Max4°
Min-6°

December

Max-1°
Min-12°

Legend

Best Months
Hot Months
Cold Months
Rainy Periods

Weather Summary

Calgary has a continental climate, with cold, snowy winters and warm, sunny summers. Sudden temperature changes are common.

Weather Tips

Pleasant summers with many hours of sun.

Dry and sunny winters, ideal for snow sports.

Long and very cold winters, with temperatures below zero.

Sudden changes in weather, even on the same day.

Calgary is known for its dry and sunny climate, with more than 330 days of sunshine a year.

Sudden temperature changes are common due to the influence of the nearby Rocky Mountains.

Overview

Spring

Spring in Calgary is cool and variable, with gradually rising temperatures and a moderate increase in precipitation. The days are lengthening and nature begins to bloom, although occasional frosts may still occur.

More Information

Summer

Summer is warm and relatively dry, with long, sunny days that reach comfortable maximum temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing in the nearby mountains. However, there may be occasional rain, especially in July.

More Information

Autumn

Autumn is characterized by cool and pleasant temperatures, with a gradual decrease in heat and a landscape that is colored with reddish and yellow colors. It is an ideal season to enjoy festivals and nature before the arrival of winter.

More Information

Winter

Winter is cold and dry, with temperatures that can drop considerably and frequent snowfall. The city prepares for winter activities such as skating and skiing, and the urban environment is filled with festivities and cultural events.

More Information

Presupuesto y Compras

Plan your expenses and discover the best shopping areas

Budget Planning

Daily spending per person

Visiting Calgary in 2025 requires a moderate budget compared to other large Canadian cities. Costs vary depending on the type of trip, being accessible for budget travelers and offering luxury options for demanding tourists.

Budget Travel

40-70€

per day

Mid-Range Travel

90-150€

per day

Luxury Travel

€200+

per day

Guía de Compras

Best Areas

Fashion and clothing

2 areas

Downtown Calgary

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Stephen Avenue Walk

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Electronics and technology

2 areas

Downtown Calgary

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Chinook Center

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Local products and crafts

2 areas

inglewood

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Calgary Farmers' Market

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Sports and outdoor activities

2 areas

Downtown Calgary

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Market Mall

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Food and gourmet

2 areas

Crossroads Market

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Calgary Farmers' Market

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Points of Interest

Explore the most fascinating places this city has to offer

Calgary Tower

It offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city and the Rocky Mountains. It has two restaurants: SKY360 and Ruth's Chris Steakhouse.

Landmark

Prince's Island Park

An urban oasis on the Bow River, ideal for walking, cycling or enjoying outdoor events.

Park

Stampede Park

Home to the famous Calgary Stampede, a rodeo and concert event.

Entertainment

Glenbow Museum

Museum of art and history showcasing the culture and heritage of Alberta and Western Canada.

Museum

Scotiabank Saddledome Sports Pavilion

An iconic venue for sporting events and live shows.

Entertainment

Calgary Zoo

It houses a variety of exotic animals and recreations of natural habitats.

Nature

Chinook Center Shopping Center

One of the largest shopping centers in Canada, with entertainment and dining options.

Shopping

Canada Olympic Park

A park dedicated to winter sports, with ski slopes and cycling trails.

Nature

BMO Center performance center

A venue for events and shows in the heart of Calgary.

Entertainment

Heritage Park Historical Village

A historic town that recreates life in 19th century Western Canada.

Historical

Fish Creek Provincial Park

Canada's second largest urban park, ideal for outdoor activities.

Nature

Devonian Gardens

An indoor botanical garden in downtown Calgary, with a wide variety of plants.

Nature

Eau Claire Market

A market where you can enjoy local food and buy souvenirs.

Shopping

Stephen Avenue Walk

A pedestrian street in downtown Calgary known for its shops and restaurants.

Shopping

Fort Calhoun

A historic site dating back to the construction of the Trans-Canada Railway.

Historical

Telus Spark

An interactive science museum with exhibits for all ages.

Museum

Discover every corner of calgary!

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Day Trips

Discover fascinating destinations near calgary perfect for day getaways

1.5 hours by car

Banff National Park

Nature, Mountains, Towns, Culture

Full-day tour from Calgary to explore Banff National Park, famous for its stunning mountain landscapes, glacial lakes, and abundant wildlife. Includes visits to the town of Banff, Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, with time to walk, photograph and enjoy nature.

2 hours by car

Yoho National Park

Nature, Mountain, History

Day trip to discover Yoho National Park, located west of Banff. Its waterfalls, lakes and unique geological formations stand out, such as the Natural Bridge. Ideal for those who enjoy nature and geology.

3 hours by car

Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier

Nature, Mountain, Adventure

Full-day tour to visit the Columbia Ice Field, one of the largest ice fields in North America, and the Athabasca Glacier. Includes ice hiking with crampons and spectacular views of glaciers and waterfalls.

1 hour by car

Canmore and Kananaskis National Park

Nature, Mountains, Towns

Excursion to visit the picturesque town of Canmore and explore Kananaskis National Park, known for its trails, lakes and mountains less crowded than Banff, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.

2 hours by car

Lake Abraham and ice bubble phenomenon

Nature, Winter, Adventure

Winter excursion to observe the natural phenomenon of methane bubbles frozen under the ice of Lake Abraham. Includes ice walks and unique views in winter.

Explore Neighborhoods

Discover the unique character and charm of each city district.

altar

Altadore is a modern, vibrant neighborhood in southwest Calgary, known for its tree-lined streets and mix of old and new homes. It offers a family atmosphere and a large amount of green spaces.

Highlights

  • River Park
  • Sandy Beach Park
  • Marda Loop

Best For

FamiliesYouth

Eau Claire

Eau Claire is a residential, mixed neighborhood in downtown Calgary, known for its proximity to the Bow River and peaceful atmosphere. It offers a mix of housing and commercial spaces.

Highlights

  • Prince's Island Park
  • Bow River Trails

Best For

FamiliesTourists

Beltline

The Beltline is one of Calgary's densest and most popular neighborhoods, known for its nightlife and proximity to downtown. It offers a mix of modern and old homes.

Highlights

  • 17th Avenue SW
  • Nightlife

Best For

Young peopleNightlife

inglewood

Inglewood is a vibrant, artsy neighborhood in southeast Calgary, known for its unique shops and proximity to the Bow River. It offers a bohemian and cozy atmosphere.

Highlights

  • 9th Avenue SE
  • Pearce Estate Park

Best For

Young peopleTouristsShopping

Elbow Park

Elbow Park is one of Calgary's most exclusive neighborhoods, known for its historic mansions and proximity to the Elbow River. It offers a calm and luxurious environment.

Highlights

  • Sandy Beach Park
  • River Park

Best For

FamiliesTourists

Seasonal Experiences

Discover the best experiences and activities for each time of year

Calgary Stampede

Summer

The Calgary Stampede is the largest outdoor festival in the world, known as 'The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth'. For 10 days in July, the city is transformed with rodeos, concerts, parades, fairs and exhibitions of western culture. It is a unique experience that combines tradition, music, gastronomy and fun for the whole family.

Walk through Prince's Island Park

Spring

With the arrival of spring, Prince's Island Park comes alive. It is ideal for walks, picnics, bird watching and enjoying those first warm days by the Bow River. The park also hosts outdoor festivals and cultural events.

Festival of Lights at Calgary Zoo

Winter

During the winter, the Calgary Zoo transforms into a magical kingdom of lights with its 'Zoolights' event. Millions of lights decorate the grounds, there are themed activities, carriage rides and encounters with animals adapted to the cold. It is a Christmas tradition for locals and visitors.

Hiking in Fish Creek Provincial Park

Autumn

Fish Creek Provincial Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America. In autumn, its trails are dyed in golden and reddish colors, ideal for hiking, wildlife observation and landscape photography. The cool climate and changing trees create a special atmosphere.

Skiing and Snowboarding at Canada Olympic Park

Winter

Canada Olympic Park, home of the 1988 Winter Olympics, offers skiing and snowboarding for all levels. Plus, there's tubing, bobsleigh tracks, and winter activities for families. It is a unique sports experience minutes from the city center.

Music Festival at Studio Bell

Summer

Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre, hosts a variety of summer music festivals ranging from jazz to indie and folk. The building itself is a work of architecture, and its rooms host concerts, workshops and interactive exhibitions on Canadian musical history.

Festivals & Local Celebrations

Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of this city through its unique festivals

September 18–28

Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF)

The largest film festival in Alberta and the sixth largest in Canada, featuring approximately 200 films of various genres from Canada and the world. Includes screenings, Q&A with directors and opening and closing galas with red carpet.

July 23–26

Calgary Folk Music Festival

Family and cultural festival featuring over 70 artists, food vendors, art market and family zone. It is a musical event that celebrates cultural diversity and folk music.

April

Calgary Comic & Entertainment Expo

Annual pop culture convention featuring comics, science fiction, gaming, anime, horror and fantasy. One of the largest events in Canada with over 97,000 attendees.

May

Calgary International Beer Festival

Social event celebrating Alberta's beer and culinary culture, with more than 500 types of beer to taste and learn about.

September 1–30

Calgary Culture Days

Celebrating the local arts, culture, and community spirit with events such as live music, cultural festivals (e.g., Fiesta Filipino), family activities, and art exhibits.

April

Calgary Underground Film Festival

Film festival that presents contemporary works in categories such as feature films, documentaries, animation and shorts, with films that are unconventional and rarely seen in North America.

Variable date (spring)

Picture This… Film Festival

Award-winning film festival promoting disability films to the general public, with screenings and related activities.

End of August - beginning of September

Filipino Party

Vibrant celebration of Filipino culture with music, food, art, performances and storytelling that promote diversity and unity.

Traveler Tips

Essential advice and local insights to make your trip memorable and safe

Safety Tips

  1. General Security

    Safety Tips for Calgary

  2. Areas to avoid

    Information about less safe areas

  3. Emergencies

    Local emergency numbers and procedures

Before you go

Quick answers to plan your trip with confidence

About 3 days covers the essentials. Add 1–2 days for neighborhoods or day trips.
Mid-range is around 90-150€ per person per day (stay, food, local transport). See the budget section for ranges.
A solid starting area is altar. Compare neighborhoods and hotels on this page.
Transportation in Calgary
Family-friendliness rated 82/100. It usually works well for family trips.
Safety rated 85/100. Safety Tips for Calgary

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