If you’re the kind of person who spends the day conquering peaks and the evening sipping wine in a plush robe, welcome to your dream cheat sheet of the best 5-star hotels in Banff.
Banff is more than just jaw-dropping trails and glacier-fed lakes—it’s also home to luxurious mountain hideaways where hikers hang up their boots and slip into something far more comfortable.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a post-hike pamper-fest, or the ultimate Rockies road trip, these 5-star hotels in Banff are guaranteed to deliver unforgettable stays. Here’s your guide, broken down by castle vibes, highway gems, and romance-ready retreats.
Before we dive in, if you’re still building your itinerary, don’t miss our guides on the Best Easy Hikes in Banff, the Best Winter Hikes in Banff, and the Best Places to See Wildlife in Banff. If you’re also scouting for budget options, check out our roundup of Best Cheap Hotels in Banff to mix and match your stay.
Banff Castle Hotels
Fairmont Banff Springs
Highlight: A real-life castle tucked in the mountains, with ghost stories, golf, and grandeur.
Description: Built in 1888, this iconic hotel is the ultimate 5-star hotel in Banff! It looks like something out of a storybook—think turrets, sweeping staircases, and views for days. You’ll find gourmet restaurants, a full-service spa, a golf course, and even a bowling alley. This is where elegance and adventure meet.
Best For: Couples celebrating something big, families who want activities on-site, and luxury seekers craving a historic wow-factor.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Highlight: A fairytale chateau perched on the edge of a turquoise glacier-fed lake.
Description: Wake up to mirror-still waters and mountain reflections, then choose your own adventure—canoeing, hiking, or just lounging with a view. Inside, expect refined dining, a serene spa, and service fit for royalty. Definitely one of the two best 5-star hotels in Banff.
Best For: Honeymooners, nature-loving families, and anyone who dreams in Instagrammable shades of teal and white.
Hotels Between Banff and Jasper
Post Hotel & Spa (Lake Louise)
Highlight: A boutique alpine retreat with world-class dining and spa bliss.
Description: Tucked away in Lake Louise Village, this Relais & Châteaux gem combines rustic charm with indulgent luxury. Think wood-burning fireplaces, deep-soak tubs, and a wine list that reads like a novel.
Best For: Couples, foodies, and travelers who want luxury without the crowd.
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Highlight: Lakeside luxury with wildlife at your doorstep and log-cabin charm to spare.
Description: Spread over 700 acres, this resort-style lodge mixes rustic vibes with five-star polish. Ride horses, paddle the lake, or just unwind in your private cabin with a glass of wine and some elk watching. If you’re into wildlife, don’t miss the chance to explore some of the best places to see wildlife in Banff during your trip.
Best For: Families, groups of friends, and couples who want space to explore with luxe comforts.
Romantic Banff Hotels
Rimrock Resort Hotel
Highlight: Perched above Banff with spa treatments, fine dining, and endless mountain views.
Description: This elegant escape has serious date-night energy, from the AAA 5-Diamond restaurant to the serene spa tucked into Sulphur Mountain. Expect soft lighting, quiet vibes, and rooms that make you want to sleep in.
Best For: Couples, honeymooners, and anyone overdue for some TLC.
Emerald Lake Lodge
Highlight: A hidden gem on a jade-green lake, surrounded by forest and complete tranquility.
Description: Rooms come with wood-burning fireplaces and balconies, while the lodge serves up award-winning cuisine and zero cell reception. You’ll feel like the only two people in the world—and that’s the point. For couples visiting in colder months, this also makes a perfect base for winter hikes in Banff and cozy evenings by the fire.
Best For: Peace-seeking couples, lovers of rustic charm, and anyone who equates luxury with silence and stars.
Related Reading: Banff Cheap Hotels: The Best Budget-Friendly Stays for Hikers and Adventure Lovers
Wrap-Up: Hike Hard, Rest Like Royalty in a 5-Star Hotel in Banff
You’ve earned it. After a day on the trails or a long drive through mountain passes, these 5-star hotels in Banff offer more than just rest—they elevate the entire trip.
Whether you’re after turrets and tea service or starlit soaks and glacial views, Banff and its surroundings have your perfect end-of-day retreat.
Looking for a more budget-friendly option to balance out your luxury splurge? Don’t miss our guide to the best cheap hotels in Banff. So lace up those boots—but don’t forget to pack something fancy for dinner.
