Welcome to Edmonton, a city where the pulse of metropolitan energy harmonises with the serenity of nature’s clasp. Edmonton, the vibrant city of Canada, beckons, promising an array of experiences spanning urban delights to wilderness wonders. Whether you’re a solo traveller seeking enriching encounters, a family seeking memorable bonding trips, or a thrill-seeker yearning for adventure, Edmonton stands as an oasis of possibilities, ready to ignite your sense of adventure.

Edmonton’s allure is as diverse as it is inescapable. Brimming with cultural experiences, culinary escapades, and natural splendours, Edmonton is a city of contrasts, where bustling city life blends with boundless natural beauty. Its robust art scene, exemplified by top-notch theatres and galleries, pulsates with creative energy.

Not to mention, the culinary landscape is dotted with farm-to-table dining opportunities that showcase the region’s luscious produce. The famed river valley, weaving through the city, offers an urban escape with cycling, canoeing, and hiking opportunities.

With our ATOL assurance, your flights to Edmonton are not just booked, they are secured, affording you peace of mind as you prepare to immerse yourself in one of Canada’s most captivating locales. Unveil the extensive tapestry of offerings Edmonton has in store as we guide you through top destinations, essential experiences, travel tips, and more in this detailed itinerary.

Explore Edmonton with Woking Travel!

Flights To Edmonton Guide

Edmonton, Canada, predominantly relies on Edmonton International Airport (YEG) as its central aviation hub. Situated just about 26 kilometres (16 miles) south of downtown Edmonton, this airport is the chief gateway for international flights, including those that originate from the UK. Passengers can expect a flight duration of around 9 to 10 hours for direct flights from the UK to Edmonton International Airport, with airlines such as Air Canada, British Airways, and WestJet operating on this course.

Upon arrival at Edmonton International Airport, travellers are welcomed by a plethora of amenities designed to enhance their journey. From a diverse range of dining options to a variety of shopping platforms, currency exchange services, and car rental services, the airport ensures that all your needs are met under one roof. 

While Edmonton International Airport is the principal airport administering the city’s flights, a few smaller airports are located nearby, including Edmonton City Centre Airport (YXD) and Villeneuve Airport (ZVL). However, these airports specifically cater to regional and general aviation traffic and are not typically used for commercial passenger flights.

For seamless transportation from Edmonton International Airport to your accommodation, trust in the reliable and convenient transfer services provided by Woking Travel. Our services are designed to ensure a hassle-free journey, enhancing your overall travel experience. Discover more about these transfer services on Transfer- Woking Travel.

Woking Travel provides a handpicked assortment of hotels in Edmonton, catering to all budgets and preferences. You can explore hotels by visiting our Hotels page at Hotels-Woking Travel or take a look at our holiday packages at Packages-Woking Travel.

To ensure you have a comfortable stay, we have put together various types of hotels ranging from reasonably priced options to luxury hotels in Edmonton, catering to every preference and budget. Our selections for you are as follows: 

  1. The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald: This historic 5-star hotel, which boasts a splendid view of the North Saskatchewan River Valley, has tasteful suites, exquisite dining, and opulent features like a spa and fitness facility.

  2. The Sutton Place Hotel: The 5-star Sutton Place Hotel, located in the centre of the city, offers deluxe accommodations, gourmet dining choices, and a variety of amenities, such as an indoor pool and fitness complex.

  3. The Westin Edmonton: The Westin, an innovative 5-star hotel in downtown Edmonton, combines chic lodging, exceptional cuisine, soothing spa services, and convenient proximity to neighbouring attractions.

  4. Matrix Hotel: The 5-star Matrix Hotel, famed for its contemporary setting and attentive service, has luxurious rooms, a lounge bar and free facilities like Wi-Fi and a fitness centre.

  5. Union Bank Inn: Set in a historic building, this 4-star inn diverges contemporary amenities with a touch of the past. Grand lodgings, fancy dining at Madison’s Grill, and personalised guest services.

  6. Courtyard by Marriott Edmonton Downtown: Located near downtown attractions, this trendy 4-star hotel has luxuries like an indoor pool and fitness centre, along with cosy bedrooms and a lively bistro serving regional dishes.

  7. Delta Hotels by Marriott Edmonton Centre Suites: this 4-star hotel is located in the ICE District and offers roomy suites with incredible city views, a rooftop setting, a gymnasium, and various dining options, including a Starbucks eatery.

  8. Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel by APA: This 3-star hotel in downtown has affordably priced rooms, a fitness centre, a heated swimming pool, and a variety of eateries to choose from.

  9. Sandman Hotel Edmonton West: The 3-star Sandman Hotel provides reasonably priced lodging, an indoor pool, and dining choices, all within a short distance from West Edmonton Mall and other sites.

  10. Days Inn by Wyndham Edmonton Downtown: Days Inn Downtown offers comfortable and budget-friendly accommodations, free breakfast, and direct access to downtown attractions.

Edmonton has many transportation options that cater to the needs of tourists and locals such as public transit, ridesharing services, taxi services, cycling, and more:

  1. Edmonton Transit System (ETS): The city has an extensive network of bus routes and Light Rail Transit (LRT) lines, providing affordable and convenient transportation options.
  2. Taxis: Conventional taxis operate throughout the city, facilitating those who prefer direct service.
  3. Ride Shares: Services like Uber and Lyft can be easily hailed for on-demand transit within the city limits.
  4. Car Rentals: Tourists can drive at their own leisure with a range of options to suit their travelling plans with the car rental services that run in Edmonton.
  5. Airport Shuttles: Hassle-free and cost-effective shuttles move to and from the airport to your accommodation.
  6. Cycling and Walking: With its vast network of bike lanes, Edmonton promotes environmentally conscious transport and offers riders picturesque biking routes. Moreover, various neighbourhoods, including the downtown centre, are pedestrian-friendly, with crosswalks and sidewalks.

Edmonton is replete with landmarks and attractions that beckon travellers from all walks. A concise yet deliberate list of the top 10 destinations includes:

  1. West Edmonton Mall: The largest mall in North America, it has a theme park, waterpark, skating rink, and more.

  2. Royal Alberta Museum: A cultural epicentre with vast displays of Alberta’s history and rich cultures.

  3. Muttart Conservatory: Four glass pyramids housing exotic plant species and seasonal displays.

  4. Fort Edmonton Park: A living museum recreating the historical settings of Edmonton through various eras.

  5. North Saskatchewan River Valley: A natural playground ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

  6. Art Gallery of Alberta: A stunning architectural masterpiece with an extensive collection of over 6,000 works of art.

  7. The Edmonton Folk Music Festival and Fringe Festival: Internationally acclaimed cultural events that draw artists and spectators from around the globe.

  8. Elk Island National Park: Just a short drive from the city, a haven for bison, elk, and over 250 bird species.

  9. Telus World of Science: An interactive science museum with an IMAX theatre and planetarium.

  10. Whyte Avenue and 124th Street: Quaint streets brimming with boutiques, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
  1. Rge Rd: Renowned for its inventive take on the farm-to-table concept, Rge Rd features regional products in inventive recipes that honour Alberta’s historical culinary traditions.

  2. Corso 32: A pleasant Italian restaurant located in downtown Edmonton, Corso 32 serves original Italian food, focusing on fresh, local ingredients and homemade pastas.

  3. Duchess Bake Shop: Known for its delectable pastries and other desserts, Duchess Bake Shop enchants guests with its French-inspired baked goods, including cakes, croissants, and macarons.

  4. Cibo Bistro: With specialising in modern Italian food, Cibo Bistro serves a menu of intricate dishes made with ingredients that are sourced regionally. The menu is accompanied by a wide variety of wines.

  5. Tres Carnales Taqueria: Tres Carnales Taqueria offers flavourful tacos, quesadillas, and other Mexican specialties in a comfortable and vivid ambience. They specialise in authentic Mexican street food.

  6. Vaticano Cucina: Vaticano Cucina, a treasure trove in downtown Edmonton, captivates guests with its contemporary Italian menu, consisting of wood-fired pizzas and pastas.

  7. Meat: Meat is a paradise for meat lovers, serving top cuts of steak, burge, and other kinds of meats.

  8. Padmanadi Vegetarian Restaurant: Padmanadi Vegetarian Restaurant offers exquisite plant-based meals that are influenced by different cuisines, like Asian and Western tastes, and targets vegetarians and vegans.

  9. Sabor Restaurant: With an emphasis on seafood and Portuguese-inspired culinary techniques, Sabor Restaurant wows customers with a broad variety of alcohol. tapas-style plates, and fresh seafood meals.

  10. Canteen: Canteen serves innovative Canadian food that promotes using locally produced products. Its menu features inventive and fresh dishes in a chic and pleasant setting.

When in Edmonton, certain experiences are non-negotiable. Here are ten essential activities that should be on every traveller’s checklist:

  1. Chase the Northern Lights: Head to Elk Island National Park for a chance to witness the mesmerising auroras.

  2. Explore the River Valley: Rent a bike or lace up your hiking boots to discover North America’s largest urban park.

  3. Culinary Adventures: Savour the local flavours with a food tour, or dine at some of the city’s top-rated restaurants.

  4. Indulge in Festivals: Time your visit with one of Edmonton’s many festivals, be it the culturally diverse Heritage Festival or the lively Ice on Whyte.

  5. High-Flyer Experiences: Embark on a hot air balloon or helicopter tour for a unique perspective on the city and its surroundings.

  6. Wildlife Encounters: Get up close with the plains bison in Elk Island National Park.

  7. Historical Journey: Step back in time at Fort Edmonton Park, a living history museum.

  8. Cultural Immersion: Engage with Edmonton’s First Nations people and their fascinating traditions at events and heritage sites.

  9. Artistic Engagement: Attend a performance at one of the city’s theatres or marvel at the street art in Old Strathcona.

  10. Local Markets: Peruse the eclectic goods and handcrafted items at Edmonton’s various markets.

Edmonton, Alberta undergoes distinct seasonal changes throughout the year, relishing the peculiarities that each season brings with it.

  • Spring (March-May): Temperatures in spring range from 3°C to 15°C (37°F to 59°F), gradually warming up as summer approaches. Edmonton encounters moderate rainfall in springtime. It’s the perfect season for outdoor pursuits like exploring gardens, trekking in neighbouring parks, and taking part in festivals and other events.

  • Summer (June-August): High temperatures in summers can range from 20°C to 24°C (68°F to 75°F), occasionally spiking up to high 30s celsius. Summers are generally dry with little precipitation. Tourists can hike, bike, camp and explore parks and river valleys during this season. Patio dining and outdoor musical performances are also popular activities among visitors.

  • Fall (September-November): Fall starts off with warm temperatures ranging from 12°C to 17°C (54°F to 63°F) and then cools as the season progresses. Cycling, driving and hiking along with pumpkin patches and harvest festivals are the top activities that tourists can participate in, during fall.

  • Winter (December-February): During the winter, temperatures drop down from -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F), with significant snowfall. Winters come with opportunities for activities such as snowshoeing, ice skating, snowboarding, and skiing. The city also hosts ice sculpting competitions, winter events, and seasonal holiday markets.

To check for live updates about Edmonton’s weather, please check the Edmonton Weather Forecast.

  • Standard Time (GMT): Edmonton is 7 hours behind GMT.
  • Daylight Saving Time (BST): Edmonton is 6 hours behind BST.

Currency:

Edmonton uses the Canadian dollar ($CAD) as its currency. Moreover, the majority of businesses take credit and debit cards in addition to cash. But it’s always a wise idea to have some cash on hand, for little purchases or in case you find yourself in places that might not accept credit or debit cards.

Language:

English is the primary language spoken in Edmonton, but many residents also speak French as a second language.

Local Customs:

Edmonton follows standard customs. Tipping in restaurants and other services is customary around 15% to 20%. Shaking hands to greet someone is common, and waiting in the queue for your turn is important. Casual attire is observed, and sports—particularly football and ice hockey—are popular in the city. The city also hosts a number of festivals and events to commemorate its multiculturalism. 

Laws:

Familiarise yourself with local laws to ensure a respectful and legal visit. Check government resources and travel guides for updated information. It’s advisable to consult these official resources for the latest updates, insights and important laws:

Edmonton offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that are as enchanting as they are diverse. From the roar of its urban expanse to the whispers of its natural escapades, it beckons travellers with a promise of unforgettable memories.

Trust Woking Travel to be your ally in this Canadian voyage, ensuring that your flight to Edmonton is just the beginning of an odyssey filled with wonder and discovery.

Book your tickets, pack your curiosity, and set your sights on Edmonton; an adventure of a lifetime awaits.
Safe travels!