Getting Around

Calgary’s public transit network consists of buses and two Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines, known as the CTrain. Tickets can be purchased with cash or credit card at all CTrain stations, with cash on the bus (change is not given), or at numerous convenience stores across the city.

It is free to ride the CTrain throughout the downtown core between City Hall Station and Downtown West/Kerby Station on either line and in any direction, but proof of fare must be carried as soon as a train departs the 7th Avenue Free Fare Zone. The University of Calgary, Chinook Centre, and Stampede Park are some of the major stops outside the city centre.

Calgary has the most extensive urban pathway network in North America, with approximately 850 km (528 mi) of regional pathways. Two popular dockless electric scooter sharing programs, Bird and Neuron, are available in Calgary. Users can download either mobile app to locate and rent e-scooters.

Bike lanes run alongside many major streets in Calgary, including 12 Avenue SW, 8 Avenue SW, and 5 Street SW in the city centre. Several rental companies provide convenient ways to explore the city by bike, including Joe's Garage, Bow Cycle, and Sports Rent.

The downtown core is very walkable, with plenty of wayfinding signage to guide you to attractions, restaurants, and public art.

Calgary also has the world’s largest elevated, climate-controlled pedestrian pathway — 18 km (11 mi) long, to be exact. The +15 network links over 100 downtown office buildings and shopping centres. In most buildings, the +15 can be accessed on the second floor — watch for the blue +15 signage.

Rental cars are available in a variety of sizes and for any duration you wish in Calgary. Rental offices are located throughout Calgary, with a cluster of car rental desks at YYC Calgary International Airport and throughout downtown Calgary.

Drivers visiting Alberta may drive a standard passenger vehicle with a valid driver's license from their home jurisdiction, as long as the license is equal to or higher than a Class 5 license in Alberta.
The minimum age to rent a car in Calgary is 21 years old.

Standard speed limits on Calgary roads are 40 kilometres an hour, unless otherwise posted. School zones and playgrounds have a special speed limit of 30 kilometres per hour during the hours indicated on signage.

Taxis charge a base rate, plus an additional surcharge at the YYC Calgary International Airport. Limousines and luxury sedans are another great way to begin your stay in Calgary.

Ride sharing is a convenient mode of transportation with Uber offering the digital service throughout Calgary, including at the airport.

Tipping drivers 10-15 per cent of the total cost of your ride is customary in the area.

Tours provide a convenient way to explore everywhere from downtown Calgary, to Banff, to Dinosaur Provincial Park.

Find a tour or shuttle that is right for you as you explore Calgary and beyond.

Getting around Calgary in an RV is easy when you plan your route and are aware of which quadrant of the city you are travelling in. RV friendly routes with multiple lanes and clearly marked exits include: Stoney Trail (Highway 201), Deerfoot Trail (Highway 2), Glenmore Trail, and 16th Avenue NE & NW.