Calgary is a cosmopolitan city in Alberta, nestled in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies. Canada's fifth-largest municipality and the country's sunniest major city, it captivates with its quality of life and dynamism. Modern and thriving, Calgary comes alive each summer with the renowned Stampede, a rodeo festival that plunges the city into a unique Western atmosphere. As the gateway to the Rockies, Calgary merges urban energy with immediate proximity to wild nature.

Calgary's History

From ancestral home of the Prairie peoples to modern metropolis, Calgary has undergone a remarkable transformation. The founding of Fort Calgary in 1875 by the North-West Mounted Police marks the starting point of its development. The arrival of the transcontinental railway made it a commercial and agricultural crossroads, soon propelled by oil discovery in 1974 and the petroleum boom of 1947, which transformed the city into a major economic center of Canada's West.

Calgary Today

Today, Calgary blends pioneer heritage with contemporary dynamism. Its skyline of skyscrapers reflects economic growth, while emblematic events echo its Western roots. Multicultural and marked by the 1988 Winter Olympics, the city stands out for its ability to reinvent itself while remaining deeply rooted in the spirit of the West.

What to See and Experience in Calgary

Calgary seduces through its contrasts: urban modernity, historical heritage and vast natural spaces accessible within minutes. The city combines energy and authenticity, offering visitors a diverse palette of experiences throughout their stay.

Among the must-sees:

• Calgary Tower: an exceptional panorama of the city and the Rockies, featuring the famous glass floor.
• Prince's Island Park: a verdant oasis within the Bow River, perfect for strolling, picnicking or attending a festival.
• Heritage Park Historical Village: immersive experience of early 20th-century daily life.
• Glenbow Museum and Military Museum: art, history and culture to better understand Alberta.
• Fish Creek and Nose Hill Park: two vast urban parks, ideal for hiking, cycling or wildlife watching.
• Downtown and National Music Centre: a vibrant heart where cafés, bike paths and live music reflect Calgary's contemporary energy.

Unique Experiences:

• Peace Bridge: this pedestrian bridge with its futuristic design has become one of the city's modern symbols.
• Calgary Central Library: an architectural marvel acclaimed worldwide, worth visiting as much for its design as for its cultural spaces.
• Udderly Art Pasture: colorful cows transformed into urban artworks, bringing a touch of humor and creativity to different corners of the city.

When to Visit?

Calgary reveals itself year-round, each season offering a different face. Summer attracts outdoor festivals and festive atmosphere, autumn seduces with vibrant colors and tranquility, winter opens doors to nearby ski resorts, and spring announces nature's awakening. You decide which moment best suits your expectations.

A true hub of Western Canada, Calgary is easily accessible:

• By air: the international airport (YYC) offers numerous direct flights from North America, Europe and Asia. Shuttles, taxis and car rentals make it easy to reach downtown.
• By car: the city sits on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), an ideal stop for a road trip toward the Rockies, Banff or Jasper.
• By bus or shuttle: several companies connect Calgary to major neighboring cities and national parks.

Calgary offers simple solutions for getting around:

• By public transit: the light rail network (CTrain) and buses serve the entire city. Downtown features a free zone for easy circulation.
• On foot or by bike: downtown is pleasant to explore, complemented by the Plus 15 covered network and numerous cycling paths.
• By taxi or rideshare: standard services available throughout the city.
• From the airport: buses, taxis, shuttles and car rentals facilitate transfers.