Calgary is a city that combines natural beauty with a lively urban scene, making it an excellent destination for city tours that go beyond just sightseeing. From scenic bike rides along the Bow River to private excursions through the foothills, Calgary’s diverse landscape and friendly atmosphere promise memorable experiences. We especially like the Calgary City Highlights 3 Hour Bike Tour because it combines gentle exercise with visits to landmarks like Prince’s Island Park and the Peace Bridge, all guided in a small group that ensures personal attention. Plus, the option to upgrade to an e-bike means you can cover more ground without breaking a sweat. For a more relaxed exploration, the Calgary City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour offers a deeper dive into the city’s architecture and stories with tips on local dining and entertainment.
Whether you prefer active adventures or leisurely strolls, Calgary offers a variety of tours that suit different interests and fitness levels. The city’s friendly guides are eager to share insights and hidden spots, making every tour worthwhile. If you’re undecided, this guide will help you weigh options, from scenic bike rides to private luxury excursions, to find the perfect way to get to know Calgary.
1. Calgary City Highlights 3 Hour Bike Tour, E-Bike Upgrade Avail.
Get to know Calgary better on this 3-hour bike ride along the Bow River, with the option to upgrade to an e-bike for less pedaling. This tour is led by a guide and set in a small group, which means plenty of personalized attention. It covers notable landmarks like the Peace Bridge, Prince’s Island Park, and the Chinese Cultural Centre Museum, with stops that include terra-cotta soldiers and sculptures. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the relaxed pace that allows for photos and questions. The moderate price of around $89 makes it a great value for those who want a mix of exercise and sightseeing. The tour’s highlights include a peaceful ride along the Bow River, inspiring architecture, and insights into Calgary’s First Nations history.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a scenic overview of Calgary’s downtown and parks in just a few hours, especially if you like cycling and meaningful stops.
2. Calgary City Highlights 3 Hour Walking Tour | Gratuity-Based
This walking tour takes you through Calgary’s core in about three hours, with stops at iconic sites like the Calgary Tower, Stephen Avenue Walk, City Hall, and the Central Library. It’s a tip-based tour, which means you pay what you think it’s worth—great for budget travelers or those wanting a flexible experience. The guide shares engaging stories about Calgary’s development and culture, making history feel alive. Guests appreciate how the tour balances sightseeing with local recommendations for dining and nightlife. With a modest price of $5 per person, it offers excellent value, especially for first-time visitors eager to get their bearings.
Bottom Line: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers wanting a rundown of downtown Calgary on foot, with insider tips and a personal touch.
3. Calgary: Tips-Based City Highlights Walking Tour | 3-Hour
For those who prefer a flexible, less structured approach, this tip-based walk offers an immersive experience of Calgary’s main sights. In approximately three hours, you’ll explore landmarks like the Calgary Tower, Stephen Avenue, and the historic St. Louis Hotel, with stops for photos and stories. The guide provides helpful travel tips, restaurant suggestions, and insider insights that will enhance your stay. The tour’s flexible nature makes it ideal for travelers who want to see the city at their own pace while still gaining meaningful context. Costing around $4, this tour is very budget-friendly, and reviews highlight the guide’s friendly and informative approach.
Bottom Line: A good pick for adaptable travelers who want a personalized feel and useful local tips without a rigid schedule.
4. Calgary City Highlights 2 Hour E-Scooter Tour
Zoom through Calgary with this 2-hour electric scooter tour—a fun, active way to see the city’s top sights. The tour includes use of the Apollo Air 2022 scooter and helmet, with a guide leading the way past landmarks like Stephen Avenue, Central Memorial Park, and the Bow River. Guests love the ease of riding an e-scooter and the opportunity to cover more ground than walking allows, with some stops for photos and local stories along the way. The reviews mention friendly guides and excellent value at just over $67 per person. It’s especially suitable for those who want a quick, energetic overview without the physical challenge of biking.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a lively, efficient way to explore Calgary’s downtown and parks with a small-group setting.
5. Calgary: 3.5-Hour Bus City Tour with Gasoline Alley Museum
This bus tour offers a comprehensive 3.5-hour glimpse of Calgary’s skyline and historical sites. It includes a stop at the Gasoline Alley Museum at Heritage Park, where you can see vintage cars, gas pumps, and signs. Guided by a local, you’ll hear stories about Calgary’s development and iconic attractions from the comfort of a climate-controlled vehicle. Prices around $54 make it a good value for those who prefer to sit back and relax while covering a lot of ground. This tour is suited for travelers with limited mobility or those short on time but still eager to see major sights and learn some Calgary stories.
Bottom Line: A practical choice for those wanting a narrated overview with minimal walking, especially in bad weather or for comfort.
6. Calgary: City Bike Tour, Highlights and Bow River
This 3-hour bike tour is a lively way to see Calgary while staying active. Covering the city and Bow River, it takes you past the Stampede Grounds, scenic parks, and downtown architecture. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guide make it a personal experience that balances exercise with sightseeing. The reviews highlight how well the guide shares Calgary’s history and culture, making it perfect for active travelers who want a bit of both. For around $103, it offers a solid value if you enjoy cycling and want to explore at a relaxed pace. Guests note the ease of riding and the opportunities to take photos along the way.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active visitors who want an engaging, scenic tour that combines exercise with city highlights.
7. Calgary: E-Scooter City Highlights Tour
This e-scooter tour provides a fast, fun way to cover Calgary’s top highlights in just two hours. The guide shares insights as you zip past landmarks like the Peace Bridge, Bow River, and downtown parks. The powerful e-scooters make it easy to navigate the city’s streets and pathways, with some stops for photos and stories. Reviewers praise the laid-back vibe and guide’s enthusiasm, calling it a “blast.” At $63 per person, it’s an affordable, energetic option for those who want to see a lot without much physical effort. It is ideal for travelers short on time or those seeking a lively experience.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a quick, social way to explore Calgary, this tour is hard to beat.
8. Calgary City Tour & Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary Private Tour
This private 8-hour tour blends city sightseeing with wildlife encounters. Starting in Calgary, your guide takes you to landmarks like the Calgary Tower, Peace Bridge, and Scotsman’s Hill before visiting the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary. The sanctuary is a unique chance to learn about rescued wolfdogs and their care, with optional visits that require admission fees. Guests rave about the personalized attention and flexibility to customize the day. Because it’s private, it’s best for small groups or families wanting an intimate experience. The price reflects the full-day nature and private service, making it a premium but worthwhile option for animal lovers and those wanting a tailored itinerary.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a personalized, full-day experience combining city sights with an animal encounter.
9. Private Calgary City Highlights 2 Hour Walking Tour
This private 2-hour tour is perfect for travelers who want an in-depth, personalized look at Calgary. Your guide leads you through the downtown, focusing on landmarks like Calgary Tower, St. Louis Hotel, and the Central Library. It’s a flexible, intimate experience that can be tailored to your interests. The reviews commend the guide’s knowledge and friendly approach, making it a comfortable way to explore while getting personalized recommendations. The cost of $200 for up to 15 people offers good value for a tailored experience with plenty of photo opportunities and local insights.
Bottom Line: Best for small groups or couples wanting a private, customized tour with a local touch.
$199.99 per group (up to 15)
10. Calgary City Tour and Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary Private Tour
This private tour offers flexible scheduling and a full-day itinerary. It covers Calgary’s landmarks like the Calgary Tower and Scotsman’s Hill, plus the optional visit to the Wolfdog Sanctuary, where you can learn about rescued wolfdogs. Guests value the ability to customize the experience and the private service, making it ideal for small groups or families. The tour’s highlights are the scenic viewpoints and wildlife education, with admission fees for the sanctuary. Pricing varies based on group size, reflecting its luxury, personalized nature.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want an exclusive, customizable day that combines city sightseeing with a wildlife adventure.
$311.02 per group (up to 6)
How to Choose the Right Calgary Tour
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you prefer active exploration, the bike or e-scooter tours (Bike, Scooter) offer a fun mix of exercise and sightseeing. For a more relaxed approach, the walking tours (Walking, Tips-based) provide insight and flexibility. Private options (Private walking, Full-day) are perfect for those wanting exclusivity.
Think about your schedule—if you have limited time, the 2-hour scooter or walking tours are efficient. For families or animal lovers, the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary (link) offers a memorable animal experience. Booking early is advised in peak season, especially for private and guided tours, to secure the best times.
Final Thoughts
Calgary offers a variety of ways to explore its streets, parks, and hidden corners. Active travelers might prefer the bike or e-scooter tours, while those seeking a more leisurely pace will enjoy the walking experiences. Private tours are ideal for customization, and the wildlife visit adds a special touch. For a well-rounded visit, consider combining a city tour with a trip to the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary.
Ultimately, your choice depends on your interests, budget, and energy level. Whatever you select, Calgary’s friendly guides and scenic landscapes promise an engaging adventure. Remember to book early during busy seasons, and enjoy discovering this dynamic city at your own pace.