Where to Stay In Calgary For Solo Female Travelers

Wondering where to stay in Calgary on your first solo trip? I’ve been there—literally. I have visited Calgary solo several times now, and it’s a very friendly, walkable, and safe city, especially for women traveling alone.

Whether you’re here for the excitement of the Calgary Stampede, a relaxing weekend getaway, or making a quick stop before heading to Banff, choosing the right neighborhood can completely shape your experience. Some areas are perfect for meeting people and exploring on foot, while others are ideal if you’re craving peace with scenic views.

This guide is designed specifically for solo female travelers and breaks down the best neighborhoods to stay in Calgary, plus hand-picked hotels and Airbnbs, budgeting tips, and how to get around safely and easily. From the buzzing vibe of Beltline to the charming streets of Kensington, I’ll help you find the area of the city that will best fit your solo travel style.

A large red "YAHOO" sign is displayed outdoors in a city plaza in Calgary, with modern high-rise buildings and a cloudy sky in the background.

A Quick Guide to Calgary

Calgary is located near Canada’s vast prairies and the beautiful Rocky Mountains. It offers urban charm, Western heritage, and a vibrant cultural scene. The city is best known for the world-famous Calgary Stampede, a ten-day rodeo and festival that brings the city to life every July. Beyond the Stampede, Calgary offers a mix of modern city life and natural beauty, with plenty of green spaces, a thriving food scene, and easy access to the outdoors.

The best time to visit Calgary depends on personal preferences. Summer, from June to August, is the most popular time due to warm weather, festivals, and hiking opportunities. Fall, from September to November, offers stunning autumn colors and fewer tourists. Winter, from December to February, is ideal for those who love skiing and winter activities, while spring, from March to May, provides mild temperatures and blooming gardens.

What Makes Calgary Worth Visiting?

Besides its obvious appeal of being so close to the Rocky Mountains, Calgary is a friendly, vibrant city that is very solo traveler-friendly. If Western culture is your jam, then a trip to Cowtown is a no-brainer. Aside from that, it’s a city with a lot to see and do all year round. With decent public transit and a very walkable downtown area, you can also enjoy a lot of what Calgary has to offer without needing a car.

Here’s what makes it special:

The Calgary Stampede (July): This 10-day rodeo and festival brings the whole city to life.
It’s very close to Banff & the Canadian Rockies: Banff is a 1.5-hour drive away.
A city of four seasons: Calgary is a year-round destination. Enjoy summer festivals, golden fall foliage, winter snow sports, and spring hikes.
Friendly locals and safe streets: It’s a perfect choice for a first-time solo traveler exploring Canada.
Local Events & Activities: From festivals and markets, to Fan Expo’s and special exhibits, events are happening all year round.

Best Time to Visit Calgary

Because Calgary is a year-round destination, the best time for you to visit will depend on what activities you want to do.

Summer (June-August): Best for warm weather, festivals, and hiking
Fall (September-November): Stunning fall colors and fewer tourists
Winter (December-February): Ideal for winter lovers and skiing in Banff
Spring (March-May): Milder weather, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds

Large mural on the side of a building in Inglewood showing a woman with braided hair sewing a colorful blanket, surrounded by a vibrant patchwork of Indigenous-inspired artwork including a bison, tipi, handshake, dreamcatcher, and nature motifs.

Calgary and Its Neighborhoods

Each Calgary neighborhood has its unique appeal. So you can just choose an area that suits your travel style and preferences. These are your main options if you are visiting the city.

Downtown Calgary is the best option for first-time visitors, location-wise, but will probably be the most expensive. It is safe, walkable, and central, with easy access to top attractions such as the Calgary Tower, Stephen Avenue, and various transit hubs. This area is home to business hotels, high-end stays, and convenient locations for accessing the Calgary Stampede.

Beltline is a trendy and social neighborhood. It is known for vibrant nightlife, cafes, and restaurants. If you are a solo traveler who enjoys a lively atmosphere, it’s a good area to stay in because it is adjacent to 17th Avenue SW, a hotspot for bars, boutiques, and cultural spots.

Kensington is an artsy and very walkable neighborhood, known for its independent shops and cafes. It is a quieter area that is perfect for a relaxed solo retreat. With easy access to the Bow River and the Peace Bridge, it offers picturesque walking routes. It is a good option if you want a more chilled stay.

Mission and 17th Avenue SW offer you a mix of boutique hotels, trendy eateries, and a social atmosphere. This area has easy access to public transportation and downtown attractions while maintaining a lively, yet comfortable, environment. It will have a similar vibe to the Beltline.

East Village is a modern, up-and-coming area that has quickly become a cultural hotspot. It is home to Studio Bell, the RiverWalk, and the Central Library. This neighborhood is a great choice if you want a sleek and contemporary environment.

Inglewood is one of Calgary’s oldest neighborhoods, filled with historic charm, boutique shops, and unique cafes. It is ideal if you enjoy exploring independent businesses and experiencing a more local side of the city.

For budget-conscious travelers, the University District is a great option. It provides access to affordable accommodations and is well-connected to the downtown area via the C-Train, Calgary’s light rail system.

If you’re on a tight budget, you can also look at options further out while still making it easy to get around by looking for places to stay that are within walking distance of a C-Train Station.

The Best Areas In Calgary For Solo Female Travelers

Here’s a quick summary of the main neighbourhoods to look at if you are traveling solo to the city.

Downtown Calgary – Great For First-Time Visitors

Safe, walkable, and central
Close to Calgary Tower, Stephen Avenue, and transit hubs
Best for business hotels, high-end stays, and easy Stampede access

Beltline – Trendy & Social

Hip neighborhood with great nightlife and cafes
Ideal for younger solo travelers who enjoy meeting people
Near 17th Ave SW – a hotspot for bars, restaurants, and shopping

Kensington – Artsy & Walkable

Quiet, charming, and full of independent shops
Perfect for a laid-back solo retreat
Close to Bow River, Peace Bridge, and cafes with great people-watching

Inglewood – Historic & Charming

Quirky, artsy, and filled with boutique shops
Great for walking tours and vintage shopping
Ideal for a more relaxed and local experience

Mission & 17th Ave SW – Best for Boutique Hotels

Lively area with plenty of bars, restaurants, and shops
Easy access to public transport and downtown
Great for solo travelers who enjoy a social atmosphere

East Village – Modern & Up-and-Coming

Sleek, modern, and cultural
Home to Studio Bell, RiverWalk, and the Central Library
Best for solo travelers who love exploring new neighborhoods

University District – Budget-Friendly

Best for budget stays, especially if you’re visiting for events or conferences
Direct C-Train access to downtown and Stampede grounds

Calgary Transit: Getting Around the City

Public transportation in Calgary is safe and easy to use. The C-Train, or light rail transit system, is one of the most efficient ways to get around. The downtown section of the C-Train is free to ride, making it an affordable way to explore central areas. Calgary also has an extensive bus system, although it is generally slower than the C-Train.

For those who prefer to explore on foot, downtown and inner-city neighborhoods are pedestrian-friendly. Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft, as well as taxis, are readily available for added convenience. Staying near a C-Train station can significantly improve accessibility, especially for those looking to explore different parts of the city.

Public transport in Calgary is safe and easy to use.

Here’s what you need to know:

C-Train (Light Rail Transit) – Free downtown rides, fast, and connects major areas
Bus System – Covers more areas, but not as fast as the C-Train
Walking & Biking – Downtown and inner-city areas are pedestrian-friendly
Uber, Lyft & Taxis – Available but pricier than transit

Helpful Tip: Staying near a C-Train station makes getting around super easy!

The iconic Calgary Tower, surrounded by modern high-rise buildings. The tower stands tall against a cloudy sky, serving as a recognizable landmark in the city.

Best Hotels & Hostels In Calgary For Solo Travelers

For those looking for a luxurious stay, the Fairmont Palliser in Downtown Calgary offers historic elegance, a spa, and an excellent location. Another high-end option is Hotel Arts in the Beltline, a stylish boutique hotel with a rooftop pool.

For a mid-range option, Alt Hotel in East Village provides a modern and budget-friendly stay, while The Westley Hotel in Downtown Calgary offers a chic and comfortable environment for solo travelers.

If you are budget-conscious, the HI Calgary City Centre Hostel is known for being safe, social, and clean. Wicked Hostels in the Beltline is another affordable option that offers a fun and sociable environment, ideal for meeting fellow travelers.

Here are the best hotels and hostels based on budget:

Luxury

Fairmont Palliser (Downtown) – Historic elegance, spa, and great location
Hotel Arts (Beltline) – Stylish boutique hotel with a rooftop pool

Mid-Range

Alt Hotel (East Village) – Modern and budget-friendly
The Westley Hotel (Downtown) – Chic and comfortable for solo travelers

Budget-Friendly

HI Calgary City Centre Hostel – Safe, social, and clean
Wicked Hostels (Beltline) – Fun and great for meeting fellow travelers

A large red entrance tent with white text reading "WELCOME TO THE GREATEST OUTDOOR SHOW ON EARTH" marks the entrance to the Calgary Stampede. A crowd of people wearing cowboy hats is walking through, with a bright blue sky and scattered clouds overhead.

Where To Stay For the Calgary Stampede

Accommodation during the Calgary Stampede gets very expensive. Hotels generally more than double or triple their rates during the 10-day rodeo and festival. If you’re not on a tight budget, staying in a neighborhood with quick and easy access to Stampede Park is ideal. Downtown Calgary is the most convenient location, as it is within walking distance of the Stampede Grounds. East Village and Victoria Park are also excellent choices as they are both within close proximity to the festival area.

Beltline and 17th Avenue SW are lively neighborhoods that provide a social atmosphere and are only a short commute to the Stampede. The Mission neighborhood is another good option where you would be slightly away from the crowds but still well-connected.

For easy Stampede access, stay in:

Downtown Calgary – Walkable to the Stampede Grounds
East Village & Victoria Park – Close to transit and Stampede Park
Beltline & 17th Ave SW – Social scene + short commute
Mission – Fewer crowds but still accessible

A large graffiti-style mural on a glass-covered walkway reads "STAMPEDE" in bright turquoise and pink colors, with stars and the year "2024" incorporated into the design. Below the walkway, people wait at a light rail station in the city of Calgary.

Calgary Stampede Accommodation On A Budget

If you are on a tight budget for the Stampede, the only way to stay close to transit and not too far away from the Stampede Grounds is to stay in an airbnb. You will find there are lots of options BUT they get booked up fast. You’ll need to book at least 3 or 4 months in advance to find the best ones that are within walking distance of a C-Train station.

Tips for Booking Hotels & Airbnbs in Calgary

For those visiting during peak seasons, particularly during the Calgary Stampede in July, booking accommodations early is highly recommended. Hotels fill up quickly, and prices can surge closer to the event dates. Checking reviews for safety and solo traveler-friendly features is always a good idea.

When booking an Airbnb, it is best to choose listings with high ratings, Superhosts, and security features such as keyless entry or in-building concierge services. Calgary has short-term rental regulations, so checking that the listing is compliant with local laws can help avoid any last-minute issues.

Book early for Stampede season (July) – Hotels and Airbnbs fill up fast!
Check reviews for safety and solo-friendliness
For Airbnbs, look for Superhosts and places with security measures

A scenic view of the bow river in Calgary with a large arched bridge crossing over it. Lush green trees and grass line the riverbanks, while buildings and a pedestrian area are visible in the background. The sky is filled with fluffy white clouds against a blue backdrop.

Budgeting A Solo Trip To Calgary

The cost of a trip to Calgary will vary greatly depending on your accommodation choices and what activities you want to do. Hotels will typically range from $100 to $300 per night – more during Stampede, while your meals will cost between $15 to $50 per restaurant visit. Public transportation is very inexpensive. It will cost you $3.60 per ride, with a day pass available for $11.25. Many of Calgary’s top attractions, such as the Calgary Tower and museums, have entrance fees ranging from free to around $30.

Hotels: $100-$300 per night (excluding Stampede)
Food: $15-$50 per meal
Transit: $3.60 per ride or $11.25 for a day pass
Attractions: Free to $30 per activity on average

A bright daytime view of a large archway that reads "Stampede Park." A Ferris wheel and various food stalls are visible, with a clear blue sky above.

Most Popular Things To Do In Calgary By Season

Calgary offers a range of activities throughout the year. In spring, you can explore Prince’s Island Park, attend seasonal food festivals, and take advantage of mild temperatures. Summer is the most vibrant season, with the Calgary Stampede, rooftop patios, and hiking opportunities in nearby Banff.

During the fall, you can enjoy the beautiful foliage in Fish Creek Park and attend the Calgary International Film Festival. Winter brings festive activities such as ice skating at Olympic Plaza, Christmas markets, and day trips to Banff for skiing and snowboarding.

Spring: Prince’s Island Park, food festivals
Summer: Calgary Stampede, hiking, rooftop patios
Fall: Fall foliage in Fish Creek Park, Calgary International Film Festival
Winter: Ice skating, Christmas markets, day trips to Banff

Gemma Lawrence taking a selfie while seated in a stadium, possibly at the Calgary Stampede. She is wearing sunglasses and a white and denim lace top, with others in cowboy attire seated behind her.

Tips For Your First Solo Trip To Canada

Visa: Check entry requirements for your country
Currency: CAD, credit cards widely accepted. Bring some cash too.
Weather: Calgary can be very cold in Winter, and gets scorching hot in Summer so dress accordingly! It’s very temperemental so year round bring layers.
Culture: Canadians are friendly. Tipping is expected (15%-22% is the norm, with most places now defaulting to 18% or 20%)
Emergency: 911 for emergencies, 811 for non-emergency health info

For international visitors, it is important to check visa requirements before arriving in Canada. The local currency is the Canadian dollar, and most places accept credit cards. Calgary experiences a wide range of weather conditions, so packing accordingly is essential. Canadian culture is known for its politeness, and tipping between 15 to 20 percent is standard in restaurants.

In case of emergencies, dialing 911 will connect travelers to emergency services, while 811 provides non-emergency health information.

Frequently Asked Questions About Calgary (FAQs)

Is Calgary safe for solo female travelers? Yes, especially in areas like Downtown, Kensington, and Beltline.
How much should I budget for a trip to Calgary? Expect $100-$200 per day, depending on your stay, unless you are here during Stampede, when you will need to budget a lot more if you are a hotel traveler.
Should I rent a car? No, if you stay near a C-Train station, you can get to most places without a car. You can even get to places further away, like Banff, with public transit.
What is the best area in Calgary to stay in for first-time visitors? I’d recommend downtown or beltline if your budget permits.

Gemma Lawrence posing with two mascots at the Flour Rope Square pancake breakfast during the Calgary Stampede—one dressed as a raccoon and the other as a beaver—against an urban backdrop of downtown Calgary, Alberta.

Calgary Is A Great City For Solo Travelers

Calgary is a safe, exciting, and easy-to-navigate city for solo female travelers. Whether you’re here for the Stampede, sightseeing, or a stop before Banff, staying in the right area makes all the difference.

Have you visited Calgary solo? Share your favorite places to stay in the comments!

Learn More About The Calgary Stampede

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Gemma Lawrence

Gemma Lawrence is a British expat, solo female travel blogger, and the creator of This Brit’s Life — a travel and lifestyle blog that helps women explore the world confidently, live abroad independently, and stay informed about global issues.
Born and raised in England, Gemma has been living in British Columbia, Canada since 2016 and has been traveling solo for over a decade. With a background in journalism and over ten years of experience in digital marketing and communications — including leadership roles with the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC/BC) — she brings both storytelling and strategy to her writing.
Through her posts, Gemma shares practical solo travel advice, expat insights, and confidence-building resources, while also covering broader topics like women’s rights, democracy, and self-care. Her goal is to inspire independence, awareness, and personal growth — one adventure at a time

2 Comments

Gemma Lawrence says:
August 1, 2025 at 3:20 pm
Great question! I’ve always been really impressed by the transit system in Calgary. At night, its been the safest and most reliable transit I’ve ever taken. Both during the Stampede, and before or after it, I’ve never had any issues getting home at night. There has been the odd time when I’ve chosen to take an Uber instead of the C-Train at closing time, but mostly I walk and use the C-Trains to get around at all hours. I have always felt safe. In all the late night travel I’ve done, I’ve only had one scary incident – and even then I was rescued and kept safe by a group of young men (there was also Officers nearby if needed). I can’t speak to the buses at night though because I always stay near C-Train stations.
Tadeusz Wyszynski says:
July 28, 2025 at 10:27 pm
Great overview of Calgary for solo female travelers! Quick question: Is the public transit system safe and reliable late at night for someone alone? Just trying to plan my evening outings without worries.

Comments are closed.