cool cities to visit in canada

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Best places to visit in canada for 2023-2024.

From the cosmopolitan streets of Toronto to the snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies, our neighbor to the north features a diverse set of vacation destinations that are beautiful year-round. Deciding which one is perfect for your next getaway can be difficult. That's why U.S. News considered several factors, such as affordability, entertainment options and diversity of hotels and resorts, as well as user votes and expert opinions, to compile this list of the best places to visit in Canada. Vote for your favorite spot below to have a say in next year's list.

Jasper National Park

Vancouver, canada, niagara falls, quebec city, prince edward island, gros morne national park, victoria & vancouver island, cape breton highlands national park, mont-tremblant, okanagan valley.

Nestled amid the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, this tiny mountain town in Alberta appeals to both nature enthusiasts and luxury seekers. Visitors can spend their days skiing or hiking in Banff National Park (one of Canada's most beautiful national parks and home of the glacier-fed Moraine Lake) and floating down the Bow River on a canoe before retiring to one of the area's several opulent hotels for some spa therapy. Then, for incredible views of the Rockies, take a ride on the Banff Gondola. Meanwhile, daytrips to popular attractions like the Columbia Icefield, Yoho National Park and Lake Louise cannot be left off of your itinerary.

As the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is ripe for exploration. When you're not hiking through Maligne Canyon, whitewater rafting down the Athabasca River or snapping photos of Spirit Island, you can enjoy a bird's-eye view of the picture-perfect scenery from the Jasper SkyTram. Or, take in the beauty of Jasper National Park while driving along the Icefields Parkway. Keep your eyes peeled for the 53 species of mammals that call this Alberta park home, including black bears, elk and bighorn sheep.

A trip to this British Columbia city, which sits approximately 145 miles north of Seattle, is all about embracing the outdoors. Vancouverites spend their days skiing on Grouse Mountain, swimming at Kitsilano Beach and strolling through the sprawling Stanley Park. Plus, Vancouver offers plenty of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries and outdoor markets (a tour of Granville Island is a must-do). If you're not afraid of heights, walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which is positioned 230 feet above the Capilano River.

Travel to this iconic destination in southeastern Ontario to see and capture photos of its namesake world-famous tourist attraction . View Niagara Falls from above during a helicopter tour, or see them up close on the Maid of the Mist boat tour. Or, for a unique perspective, admire the thunderous falls from behind with the self-guided Journey Behind the Falls experience. After you've taken in the splendor, check out the area's other top attractions, such as the Niagara Glen Nature Centre, which offers a variety of hiking trails. When you've had your fill of nature, head to nearby wineries or test Lady Luck at the casinos.

Referred to as the "small city with a big backyard," Whitehorse – the capital of Canada's Yukon territory – shines with all of its outdoor activities. Explore Miles Canyon, which is accessible from Whitehorse on foot (a nearly 10-mile loop trail connects the city directly to this natural wonder). After, head north to the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, where you'll find all kinds of animals, including arctic foxes, elk, muskox and bison. Even though this region gets notoriously cold, you might want to time your visit around the first couple of weeks of winter for a chance to witness the northern lights.

A trip to Europe may not be in your budget, but a visit to Québec City could be. This Canadian city charms visitors with its picturesque centuries-old buildings that make up Old Québec – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meanwhile, the aromas of freshly baked bread and brewing espresso fill the cobblestone streets of the Quartier Petit-Champlain with the essence of Paris. Once you've gotten your fill of the city, take a trip to Montmorency Falls Park to marvel at its 272-foot-tall waterfall. Plan your visit for winter when the city comes alive with twinkling lights, festivals and cold-weather activities – just remember to pack your down jacket .

Take adventure travel up a notch with a visit to Whistler. In winter, this resort town in British Columbia (about 75 miles north of Vancouver) boasts everything from cross-country skiing and snowboarding to bobsled rides and bungee jumping. Travelers can spend their downtime in Whistler Village enjoying the après-ski scene, perusing locally owned shops or strolling through Whistler Olympic Plaza. Meanwhile, visitors in town when the weather is warmer can go hiking, fishing, horseback riding, kayaking and more. Plus, summer travelers will love exploring Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, home to the 230-foot-tall waterfall from which the park gets its name.

Home to rolling green hills, sandy beaches, red sandstone cliffs and a delicious bounty of seafood (this is where PEI mussels come from, after all), Prince Edward Island is the place to travel for a relaxing respite from Canada's more adventure-driven destinations. When you're not hiking the trails at Prince Edward Island National Park, perfect your swing at one of the island's golf courses or visit the Green Gables Heritage Place, where the 1908 novel, "Anne of Green Gables" was inspired. And be sure to keep an eye out for PEI's seal population (four kinds call the island home either full or part time).

This UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses nearly 700 square miles of land on Newfoundland's west coast. Its top activity is undoubtedly hiking through the Tablelands. Here, you'll traverse exposed earth mantle, a rust-colored landscape that was created millions of years ago by a collision of tectonic plates. Also save time for a boat ride on Western Brook Pond, which is a glacier-carved, landlocked fjord that features cascading waterfalls measuring 2,000 feet. After getting a taste of nature, learn about the region's history at the Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse.

Montréal is a city of juxtaposition: Skyscrapers rub elbows with Old Montréal's 17th-century architecture while the familiar sounds of English intermingle with the foreign buzz of French – the official language of Québec province. Visit Old Montréal to get a taste of Europe (think: beautiful architecture and cobblestone streets), including its own Notre-Dame Basilica, a grand Gothic Revival-style church that offers self-guided tours along with an evening sound and light show. Then head to modern attractions, such as the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts. Meanwhile, if you're visiting during the warmer months, don't miss out on the Montréal Botanical Garden and the scenic Mount Royal Park.

While Montréal and Québec City honor Canada's French roots, Victoria pays tribute to the country's British heritage. Many pay a visit to Victoria, British Columbia's capital city, for afternoon tea, a tour of the beautiful Parliament Buildings or a history lesson at the Royal BC Museum. Others are interested in visiting Vancouver Island's wineries to sample local vinos. Meanwhile, animal lovers enjoy the abundance of marine wildlife that call the waters surrounding Victoria home. In fact, there are nearly 80 orca whales in Victoria's waters. What's more, since Victoria is one of the most sustainable urban destinations in North America, visitors can feel good about the impact of their trip.   

"Big" doesn't even begin to describe this Ontario city. With cultural pockets like Greektown, Little India and Koreatown all within city limits, Toronto has the ability to transport visitors around the globe. Take it all in with a ride up the 1,815-foot-tall CN Tower, or enjoy a quintessentially Canadian experience at the Hockey Hall of Fame. Then, head to the St. Lawrence Market to sample gourmet goodies before checking out the nearby Harbourfront Centre. And if the weather is right, plan a visit to the Toronto Islands, where you can relax on the beach, go kayaking or enjoy an afternoon bike ride.

The star of this national park on Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Island is the world-famous Cabot Trail – one-third of which runs through the park. As you drive the winding highway, which is considered one of the world's most scenic drives, you'll pass forested river canyons, rural fishing villages and plenty of lookout points for admiring Nova Scotia's serene landscape. Prefer to explore the park on your own two feet? There are 26 hiking trails to choose from, as well as opportunities for kayaking, mountain climbing, camping and more.

Located a little more than 80 miles northwest of Montréal in Québec's Laurentian Mountains, Mont-Tremblant is best known for its skiing, specifically Mont Tremblant Ski Resort, which occupies the highest peak in the mountain range. But warm-weather visitors are equally enchanted by its Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, which boasts six rivers and 400 lakes and streams, not to mention countless hiking trails and beaches. Water sports, fishing and mountain biking are all popular here thanks to the area's diverse landscape.

Stretching across more than 150 miles, the Okanagan Valley is home to 86% of British Columbia's vineyard acreage and features more than 200 world-class wineries. There are also a variety of subregions in the valley, each promising its own unique experiences and grape varietals. If you are looking to combine wine tasting with outdoor pursuits, visit the Naramata Bench. This area is packed with wineries and offers everything from kayaking to mountain biking. No matter which area you visit, you'll enjoy spectacular views that rival those of the world's best wine regions .

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Kluane National Park and Reserve

Saint John, New Brunswick

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16 Best Cities to Visit in Canada

Canada is a very unique country. It is vast — the second largest country in size in the world. Yet it is very sparsely populated. Its cities range from large, cosmopolitan cities like Toronto in Ontario to small outposts such as Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon Territory.

Many of the best cities to visit in Canada are gateways to magnificent wilderness areas and exciting recreational facilities, including some of the best ski resorts in the world.

16. Whitehorse

This small city is the capital of the Yukon. It is also its only city. Situated on the banks of the Yukon River, Whitehorse is a great jumping-off point for those who want to explore Canada’s vast wilderness, especially since the two main highways in the territory — the Alaska and the Klondike — intersect in this small city.

While in Whitehorse, make sure to check out the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, where you can see some of the many creatures that are native to the area, including caribou and Dall’s sheep.

Regina, which is the capital of Saskatchewan, prides itself on its dedication to the fine arts. It is home to the Mackenzie Art Gallery, which has a collection of more than 4,000 pieces of art, and also to the Regina Symphony Orchestra, the oldest continuously performing orchestra in the country.

Regina also plays hosts to numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including its Queen City Pride. Regina also boasts a natural history museum and a science museum.

14. Toronto

If you enjoy visiting exciting and vibrant cities, you’ll love Toronto , which is also Canada’s largest city and the capital of Ontario. It is also a very cosmopolitan one, where more than 140 languages are spoken.

It is, in fact, the most multi-culturally diverse city on the planet. Currently, Toronto is undergoing an urban revitalization, so you’re likely to find many new and rising out of former industrial areas. Plus, you’ll never be bored in Toronto as it attracts numerous big events, including the well-known Toronto International Film Festival. While in Toronto, make sure to check out one of Canada’s most iconic landmarks, the CN Tower, currently the 3rd tallest tower in the world.

13. Victoria

The capital of British Columbia is one of Canada’s most picturesque cities, with mountain or ocean vistas visible throughout many of its neighborhoods. Located on Vancouver Island, it is also a city that still boasts a wild side — elephant seals and whales can be found in the waters surrounding the city.

While in Victoria , make sure to check out its scenic Inner Harbour. Here, you will find numerous places to eat, and it is also a wonderful place to enjoy a cup of afternoon tea, a throwback to Victoria’s British heritage. Also adding to the city’s very British feel are double-decker buses and many horse-drawn carriages.

12. Calgary

Located in Alberta, this city is famous for its western flavor and, most notably, for its world-famous Calgary Stampede, a huge ten-day rodeo that bills itself as the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. Calgary , which is Alberta’s biggest city, is also considered a gateway to the Rocky Mountains and is often the jumping-off start for adventures to two of Canada’s most famous parks, Banff and Jasper.

While in Calgary, take time to visit the Heritage Park Historical Village, Canada’s largest living history museum where you can experience what life was like in the area between the 1860s and the 1950s. Another interesting site that is located approximately 90 minutes south of Calgary is the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, an archaeological site where Native Americans hunted buffalo by stampeding them over a cliff.

Ottawa, which is located in Ontario, is the capital of Canada and so — not surprisingly — it is blessed with numerous attractions, including the Parliament buildings and many world-class museums.

One of Ottawa’s most popular tourist attractions is its Rideau Canal. In the summer, the Rideau Canal is popular with boaters and in the winter, it becomes one of the largest outdoor skating rinks in the world. Outdoor activities, such as hiking and white water rafting on the Ottawa River, are very popular in this city.

10. Edmonton

The capital of Alberta is located way up north, which means during the summer, it enjoys very long days of sunshine. Edmonton is also a bit of a quirky city. It is, for example, home to the world’s first UFO landing strip. Edmonton is also home to more traditional sites , including Fort Edmonton Park, a living history museum that explores the history of the area from 1759 to the 1920s.

And for wildlife lovers, there is Elk Island National Park, a refuge for bison and elk, that is located within easy driving distance from Edmonton.

9. Saskatoon

If you love the outdoors, Saskatoon has a lot to offer you, including several provincial parks and the Beaver Creek Conservation area, one of the few remaining short grass prairie sites left in the province.

A favorite activity for visitors and residents, alike, is a riverboat ride down the South Saskatchewan River through the Meewasin Valley. Love art? Then check out the Mendel Art Gallery, which houses many significant works of art and is the 16th largest public art gallery in Canada. Saskatoon is also the home of the University of Saskatchewan and the largest city in the province of Saskatchewan.

8. St. John’s

St. John’s has two big claims to fame. One, it is the oldest city in North America and, two, it is the most easterly point in North America. But St. John’s, which is located in Newfoundland and Labrador, is also one of the best places to visit in Canada for many other reasons. For example, the waters off of its coast are home to a large population of whales, including minke, humpbacks and blue whales.

While in St. John’s, make sure to check out its charming Quidi Vidi neighborhood, which was once a historic fishing village.

7. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, the city, is not just a great place to stay while visiting one of the most beautiful waterfalls in North America. It is also a fun place to visit. You’ll find numerous attractions for adults, including casinos and wineries, and plenty for kids to enjoy, including an indoor waterpark, the Guinness World Records Museum and several mini-golf courses. And, of course, there are the stunning falls, which you can see aboard a boat or fly over in a helicopter.

If you’re searching for a city that understands fun, then you’ll want to visit Halifax , which is located in Nova Scotia. This city has more pubs and clubs per capital than just about any other city in Canada.

But the city isn’t just about drinking. It is also home to several interesting attractions, including Fisherman’s Cove, a 200-year-old restored fishing village, and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. Halifax is also close to the Bay of Fundy, which is considered one of the seven natural wonders of North America and boasts the highest tides on earth.

Just like its namesake in England, Ontario’s London is also located on the Thames River. One of the best ways to discover what London has to offer is by hopping aboard a double-decker that will take you on a two-hour tour of the city’s historical sites and museums.

While in London, consider checking out the Fanshawe Pioneer Village. This is an open air museum that will show you what life was like in the area between the years 1820 and 1920, as well as the development of the City of London, which was founded in 1826.

4. Winnipeg

Winnipeg, which is the capital of Manitoba, is a very multicultural city, where more than 100 different languages are spoken. It is also the largest city in the province. Winnipeg also prides itself on its flourishing art scene and has even sometimes been referred to as the “cultural cradle of Canada.”

It is home to the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and hosts many festivals, including Folklorama, which is a two-week celebration of different cultures. While in Winnipeg, make sure to head over to The Forks, which is a popular shopping and entertainment district in the city.

3. Montreal

Montreal, which is located in Quebec, is a Canadian city that has blended the old with the new and the French with the English. Its picturesque Old Montreal district boasts cobblestone streets and some buildings that date back to the 17th century. It is, in fact, one of the oldest urban neighborhoods in all of North America.

But Montreal is more than just its past. It is also a city of skyscrapers, boasts a lively nightlife and an Underground City. The latter is a series of office buildings, hotels, residential and commercial buildings that are all connected by underground tunnels, which can be very convenient during Montreal’s often bitter winters.

2. Quebec City

This city, which dates back to 1608 and is the capital of the province of Quebec, is very picturesque and charming. It also boasts a wonderful old town — Old Quebec — where you can walk cobblestone streets past well-preserved 17th- and 18th-century buildings. Old Quebec is the only walled city north of Mexico.

Quebec City is also home to the Citadelle of Quebec, which is an active fort and museum. The Citadelle is also the largest British fortress ever built in North America.

1. Vancouver

Vancouver, which is located in British Columbia , is one of the most culturally diverse cities in Canada. This mixing pot of cultures has helped make Vancouver into a culinary wonderland. In addition, this city’s microbrewery scene is also on the rise. Vancouver also boasts an excellent aquarium and several lovely parks, including Queen Elizabeth Park and Stanley Park.

See also: Where to Stay in Vancouver

The New York Times once called this vibrant city “Manhattan with mountains.” While the description is lovely, it forgets that Vancouver is also a seaport blessed with eight public beaches on the ocean and one on a lake.

Map of cities in Canada

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July 17, 2021 at 11:12 am

What about Hamilton, many water falls, heritage village, lion safari and park etc

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The 7 Most Underrated Cities in Canada

By Kaitlyn McInnis

There’s a lot to see and do within the limits of Canada ’s major cities. From sampling local wine and charcuterie in Montreal to catching a basketball game or exploring the art scene in Toronto —the options for exploration and cultural enrichment are endless. And although you could spend a lifetime exploring every nook and cranny of the biggest and most populous cities to the north, there’s something to be said about the up-and-coming mid-sized cities and stand-out towns across the Canadian landscape.

Looking to experience a new level of oceanfront luxury and hospitality—or curious to explore the latest in Indigenous-led art galleries and museums? We’ve rounded up some of the coolest cities in Canada that don’t always get the limelight they deserve and some big names that have a whole lot more to offer than what’s written in the guidebooks. Whether you’re hoping to see a new side to a familiar city or you’re curious to venture into a whole new province altogether, here are some of the best cities in Canada to visit in 2023.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax has always been known as an oceanside escape with ample seafood and kind locals—but the city has recently undergone a renaissance of sorts putting it at the forefront of sophistication in Eastern Canada. The downtown core recently went through a two-hundred-million-dollar renovation and the resulting Queen’s Marque neighborhood brings with it world-class art galleries and public art installations, modern dining options like Drift and Bar Sofia , and the new Muir Halifax hotel. The new crown jewel of the city’s hotel portfolio, the Muir Halifax serves as the first real five-star experience in the city without straying away from what makes the city so well-loved. Here you’ll find elevated but friendly east coast service, fine art and decor from local Nova Scotian artists in each of the 109 rooms and suites, and a halo-therapy room with Atlantic sea salt to bring the ocean indoors.

Winnipeg, Manitoba

There’s a lot to love about Winnipeg that most Canadians—let alone international travelers—can fail to see. The former flyover city is home to over forty museums with new galleries and art installations popping up on a regular basis—especially within the Indigenous space. The recently opened Qaumajuq is a first-of-its-kind museum boasting the largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art in the world. The city is also home to the Urban Shaman Contemporary Aboriginal Art , a nationally-recognized leader in Indigenous artwork and culture as well as Canadian Plains Gallery , where you’ll find both rare and contemporary Indigenous artwork from local artists.

Banff, Alberta

Banff National Park is one of the most-visited tourist destinations in all of Canada and it’s easy to see why. The sparkling turquoise blue waters of Bow River set against the Rocky Mountains dotted along the peripheral landscape looks like it was stolen straight out of a technicolor oil painting—but there’s so much more to the city of Banff than meets the eye (although we won’t lie—the landscape is pretty spectacular). The park has been a tourist hot spot for so long that it has seen cyclical trends in activities and dining since it began receiving guests in the 1880s. From the revival of the 1930s-inspired open-top touring that cuts through the mountains in a custom-made roofless bus to the enduring trend of soaking in the natural salt water at the Fairmont Banff Springs ’ Willow Stream Spa, the seemingly over-the-top tourist destination has plenty of vintage-inspired attractions set on making a case for what’s old is new again.

Quebec City, Quebec

Québec City has always been high on our list of must-visit destinations within Canada—and for good reason. The only fortified city in North America, with its castles and cobble-stoned streets, instantly transports visitors back in time to seventeenth-century Europe… but the historic city is certainly not stuck in the past. Vieux-Québec is home to some of the best and brightest restaurants in Canada with a brand-new local eatery concept opening up right around the corner from the infamous Le Château Frontenac . Helmed by former Le Champlain chef, Stéphane Modat, Restaurant Le Clan reinvents what fine dining can look like in Quebec City. The stunning regional- and seasonal-focused restaurant places emphasis on what Quebec does best, including everything from foraged vegetables and local wine to fresh seafood from the Gaspé and locally sourced meats and game—all presented in a sophisticated but unpretentious multiple-course tasting menu.

CNT Editors

Blane Bachelor

Kyler Alvord

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria is only about a half hour from Vancouver by seaplane—but the charming capital of British Columbia marches to a totally different beat than its big city neighbor. The population of Victoria is less than a hundred thousand people which gives the compact city distinctly small-town energy but the proximity to Vancouver also allows for a metropolitan influence softened slightly by the natural landscape of the greater Vancouver Island. The city is currently going through a wellness-focused renaissance thanks to new post-pandemic businesses like the Ritual Nordic Spa —an indoor/outdoor Scandinavian water circuit in the middle of the downtown core complete with a halotherapy salt room and private infrared sauna boxes. There’s also an abundance of wildlife watching right off the coast of the city (think: orcas, humpbacks, and gray whales) and classic luxury like the afternoon tea experience at the infamous Fairmont Empress Hotel which dates back to 1908.

Ottawa, Ontario

Let’s just say that Ottawa has seen its fair share of activity this year. The capital city of Canada made international headlines earlier this year for its uninvited “Freedom Convoy” protests against the COVID-19 vaccine mandates and stay-at-home orders, causing many businesses and restaurants to shutter entirely or temporarily close down. The small but sophisticated city center managed to bounce back stronger and more resilient than ever—with a handful of new additions popping up within its highly-walkable downtown core. Arlo Wine & Restaurant showcases the best in local Ontario wine and cocktails in a cozy dining space that almost feels like walking into a friend of a friend’s house party. Looking for something that highlights the best in seafood within Central Canada? Head to Le Poisson Bleu —a sophisticated seafood bar that opened—quite brazenly—in February of 2022.

Moncton, New Brunswick

New Brunswick garnered a reputation for being sleepy or strait-laced somewhere along the way—but the largest city in the province is doing its part to change the unfair reputation for good. Moncton might be a quarter the size of Halifax but it’s giving its neighboring big city a run for its money when it comes to its lively downtown core and craft beer scene. The city of Moncton is home to nearly a dozen craft breweries—from Happy Craft Brewing to Tire Shack Brewing Co —within its compact and highly walkable city limits and you’ll also find more than thirty restaurants within a five-minute walk from the center of town that range from high-end local sharing plates at Black Rabbit to casual neighborhood beer gardens like Euston Park Social .

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16 Best Cities in Canada

Written by Magee Walker and Michael Law Updated Mar 15, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

In a country as big and diverse as Canada, it's not easy to narrow down a list of the nation's very best destinations. With 10 provinces and three territories spread over 9,985,000 square kilometers, there are literally countless places to visit – each with unique attractions, beautiful landscapes, and kind people. In other words, it's safe to say that there are no bad cities in Canada.

Having said that, there are a few that stand out. We've carefully selected the cities on this list because each one features something spectacular that you can't find anywhere else in the country – or possibly even the world.

From the biggest city in Canada to the country's largest national park to the capital city, we believe each of the cities on this list deserves a place on your travel bucket list – and we can't wait to tell you why.

Find the top places to visit on your next trip with our list of the best cities in Canada.

1. Toronto, Ontario

2. quebec city, quebec, 3. vancouver, british columbia, 4. calgary, alberta, 5. ottawa, ontario, 6. montreal, quebec, 7. victoria, british columbia, 8. st. john's, newfoundland, 9. charlottetown, prince edward island, 10. saskatoon, saskatchewan, 11. whitehorse, yukon, 12. halifax, nova scotia, 13. winnipeg, manitoba, 14. banff, alberta, 15. st john, new brunswick, 16. thunder bay, ontario.

The capital of Ontario, the largest city in Canada, and the city that attracts the most visitors in the entire country – there's a lot to be said for Toronto, a bustling city of almost three million people , which is why it earned the top spot on this list.

First, the infamous Toronto landmarks. You can't mention Toronto without thinking of the iconic CN Tower , and many tourists take the time to visit popular tourist attractions like Ripley's Aquarium, Casa Loma , and the Toronto Zoo . Toronto also boasts world-renowned museums, including the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) and the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM).

Depending on the time of year, you'll be able to stand up and cheer at exciting games of baseball (Toronto Blue Jays), ice hockey (Toronto Maple Leafs), or Canadian Football (Toronto Argonauts).

Toronto is also an entertainment hotspot, and the city's entertainment district is home to multiple theatres performing the latest Broadway shows . And fortunately, many of Toronto's trendiest restaurants are located mere steps from the theaters making for the perfect night out on the town.

But most Torontonians would argue that the major attractions aren't what make Toronto the best city in Canada: it's the diverse neighborhoods located throughout the city, each a micro cultural hub with unique restaurants, shops, and parks. From Little Italy to Chinatown to Little India to the Danforth (home to a large Greek community), you can experience food from around the world by hopping from neighborhood to neighborhood.

If you have more time, take a stroll along Lake Ontario or spend some time on the local beaches . Wander High Park , Toronto's largest public park or take a ferry and soak up the city views on your way to Toronto Islands for a fun afternoon with the kids at Center Island Amusement Park.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Toronto

With horse-drawn carriages clip-clopping along the cobblestone streets of old Quebec City, it's easy to feel as though you've jumped back in time in this historic city.

Overlooking the Saint Lawrence River, Quebec City is a French-speaking city (though most people speak English in the popular tourist areas) that is rich in culture and history. Most visitors are drawn to Vieux-Québec , the fortified city core that features the aforementioned cobblestone streets, lined with boutiques, cafés, and restaurants.

The castle-like Fairmont Le Château Frontenac is an iconic Quebec City landmark and is well worth exploring, even if you aren't lucky enough to be staying as a guest. A visit to La Citadelle de Québec is also a great idea; join in on a walking tour to learn about this historical fort, which continues to function as an active military installation.

Lovers of art and all things ornate will feel like kids in a candy store in Quebec City. Beauty is everywhere you look, from architectural details to exceptional museums like the Musée National des Beaux-arts du Québec .

The Musée de la civilisation ( Museum of Civilization ) is one of the most visited museums in Canada and takes you behind the scenes of the history of Quebec. You'll leave feeling inspired – and with the urge to return again someday.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Québec City

Vancouver is, without a doubt, Canada's most visually stunning city. With mountains to the north, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and the lush old-growth forest oasis of Stanley Park right downtown, the city's landscapes are jaw-droppingly gorgeous.

Whether you're exploring the beaches in Kitsilano , enjoying a seafood-laden patio lunch on English Bay, or cycling along the seawall downtown, you'll find plenty of ways to enjoy Vancouver's natural beauty. Thanks to moderately warm summers and mild (albeit wet) winters, it's easy to enjoy spending time outdoors year-round.

The vibrant pulse of city life is best found in Vancouver's downtown core. Soak it all up at a coffee shop watching the world go by, then explore the spectacular flowers at VanDusen Botanical Gardens , followed up by shopping on bustling Robson Street . For something completely different Gastown 's mix of quirky, contemporary, and cool shops and restaurants has you covered.

Granville Island , one of the city's best attractions, is famous for its unique architecture and market laden with the freshest fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Hop on the Aqua Bus to get there, and to easily visit many of the city's other attractions mentioned above.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Vancouver

Welcome to Canada's Wild West: Calgary, Alberta is home to the famous Calgary Stampede , a week-long festival featuring rodeo events, concerts, special activities, and exhibitions galore. More than a million visitors head to "Cowtown" every year in early July to celebrate Calgary's farming and ranching heritage, making it one of the biggest festivals in the entire country.

But there's much more to Calgary than horses and cowboy hats: you can hop back in time and experience life as a pioneer at Heritage Park Historical Village , take in the city views at the Sky360 revolving restaurant atop the Calgary Tower , or meander along the Bow River through the 50-acre Prince's Island Park . In the summer, cheer on the Calgary Stampeders as they battle one of the other teams in the Canadian Football League at McMahon Stadium.

Calgary's enviable position in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains makes it a prime jumping-off point for trips to spectacular Banff National Park and world-famous Lake Louise . Home to fantastic hiking , downhill skiing , and great camping , this park is a wonderland of nature.

Though it gets mighty cold in the winter, the people of Calgary often have smiles on their faces – maybe that's because the city gets the most sunshine of anywhere in Canada. On average, Calgary experiences 333 sunny days per year , totaling 2,396 hours of sunshine . If you're planning a trip, the odds are good that you'll have great weather.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Calgary

Oh, Canada – it's hard not to feel extra patriotic when you're in the nation's capital of Ottawa. If you're a history buff, Ottawa will have you swooning in no time.

Although under renovations for the foreseeable future, guided sightseeing tours of the Parliament Building on Parliament Hill are still available and will give you a peek into the world of Canadian government.

Ottawa is home to some of the best museums and galleries in the country; the Canadian War Museum explores the history of Canada's military and the major events and conflicts that shaped the country as we know it today. And that's just the tip of the cultural iceberg: there's also the National Gallery of Canada , the Canadian Museum of History , the Canadian Museum of Nature , and the Canadian Aviation and Space Museum , to name a few.

Another thing Ottawa knows how to do is throw an epic festival. On July 1, no city celebrates Canada Day quite like Ottawa. Each February, Winterlude is a winter lover's dream come true, celebrating all things about the cold – you haven't truly experienced winter in Canada until you've ice skated along the Rideau Canal . There's also the Canadian Tulip Festival , the jazz festival, Bluesfest – the list goes on.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ottawa

Since being established in 1642 as a French mission station, Montreal (or Mont- Réal as it was back then) has risen in importance as both a world-class commercial and a cultural center. Today, not only is it Canada's second-largest city, it's also the world's second-biggest French-speaking city , surpassed only by Paris,

As big as it is, Montreal has, unlike many equally large cities in North America, managed to preserve not only its unique character but also many of its oldest buildings and neighborhoods. The best places to get a feeling for "Old Montreal" are in Vieux-Montreal , the heart of the original old colonial town, with its attractive old townhomes; and the equally picturesque "Old Port," or Vieux-Port, with its splendid promenade.

Add to this historic character the city's newer entertainment, museum, and arts districts, and you'll find no end of fun attractions to visit in Montreal .

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Whether you love the outdoors, enjoy history, are a foodie, or simply a lover of beautiful places, Victoria will likely leave you with a lasting impression and the desire to return.

A highlight of a visit includes exploring the city's Inner Harbour , with its lengthy promenade; the lovely Butchart Gardens , which is especially lovely in spring; and the Royal BC Museum, with its large collections related to the country's cultural and natural history.

Architectural buffs will want to take a free tour of the British Colombia Legislative Buildings . Topping it all, the city's most iconic building, the majestic Fairmont Empress , founded in 1904, also happens to serve what is probably Canada's most authentic afternoon tea experience.

Attractions abound beyond the Inner Harbour. A short stroll away is Beacon Hill Park , crisscrossed with walking trails and set among huge old-growth trees, this park is not to be missed. Just off the park is Cook Street Village , a fun area of town with great coffee shops, eclectic shops, and restaurants.

Victoria is a popular cruise ship destination in Canada, often serving as a stopover point on journeys towards the striking glaciers of Alaska.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Victoria

• Best hikes in Victoria
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Arguably one of the most underrated cities on this list, St. John's is a city simply unlike any other in Canada. From the local lingo and distinct Newfoundland accent to the colorful houses and the rugged, natural beauty of the coast, visiting St. John's almost feels like visiting an entirely different country – in the best of ways.

As the easternmost city in North America, St. John's has played several important roles throughout Canada's history. Check out Signal Hill , where Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal, and the spectacular museum The Rooms , to learn about St. John's importance in Canada's historic wars and battles (before Newfoundland was even officially part of Canada!)

Downtown St. John's was ravaged by the Great Fire in 1892, but today, the city's downtown core is a great place to window shop, grab a bite to eat, and pick up some one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Visitors should also make time to explore the coast – whale watching and puffin viewing tours leave from just outside of town.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in St. John's, Newfoundland

If you're planning a trip to Prince Edward Island, chances are good that you'll start things off in Charlottetown, the province's capital. Be sure to take some time to explore this small but fascinating city, home of the Canadian Confederation.

For a taste of PEI's cultural side, check out the Confederation Centre of the Arts . This national art center spans an entire city block downtown and features a massive theater, an art gallery, a gift boutique, an outdoor amphitheater, and even a restaurant. Check out the center's schedule to see what acts are in town, from live concerts to musical shows to comedy acts and more.

For a literal taste of Charlottetown, check out the local restaurants to sample local treats. Nothing says PEI quite like fresh seafood and potatoes. You'll find plenty of restaurants serving the province's best fare right in the heart of Charlottetown.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Charlottetown

There's an exciting, youthful vibe about Saskatoon – Saskatchewan's largest city – that contributed to its well-deserved spot on this list of Canada's best cities.

One of Saskatoon's surprising claims to fame is that it's said to boast the highest number of restaurants per capita of any city in the country. There are many options for those who want to experience fresh flavors grown right in Saskatchewan. Of course, you can't have a true culinary tour of the city without sampling a slice of Saskatoon berry pie.

The city has also put a lot of work into building a strong arts and cultural scene. Live music, theater, modern art galleries, and public art installations are just a few of the attractions you'll find when exploring the city's artistic side.

While there's lots going on in terms of culture, one of Saskatoon's greatest attractions is outside — just look up. The sky in Saskatoon is unlike anywhere else. Whether you're catching a sunset or simply spotting shapes in the clouds, you'll quickly understand why Saskatoon is dubbed the "Land of the Living Skies."

• Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Saskatoon

With a population of just over 25,000 people, Whitehorse is certainly one of the smaller cities on this list, but it's a charming place to visit, combining the old and the new, and it serves as a great launching point for a trip exploring Canada's vast and beautiful north.

Downtown Whitehorse is small but walkable and well worth a visit – but many of the best attractions are just outside of town. Check out the Takhini Hot Springs and Yukon Wildlife Preserve , both just half an hour from Whitehorse.

If you're willing to brave the cold winters of the north, a Northern Lights tour is the adventure of a lifetime.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Whitehorse

One of the best cities in the Maritimes has to be Halifax. It's known as a city that is easily accessible by foot, making it a lot of fun to wander around, exploring the different neighborhoods without setting out a formal itinerary.

A good place to start out is to head to the Halifax Peninsula for a walk along the four-kilometer boardwalk winding along the waterfront, which is bustling with activity in the summer months. Be sure to check out the Canadian Museum of Immigration , Cable Wharf (from here, you can catch a whale watching tour or sail out to Peggy's Cove ), and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic along the way.

The 16-acre Halifax Public Gardens on the city's famous Spring Garden Road is a sanctuary in the city. Just a short walk away is the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site of Canada , a 19 th -century fort with exceptional views and the opportunity to learn more about the city's history. When you're ready to fuel up, just grab a bite at one of Halifax's many restaurants – the city is known for its delectable donairs and scrumptious seafood.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Halifax

Winnipeg is a great destination for those wanting a taste of the country's heartland. As Manitoba's capital city, it serves an important commercial and cultural role, and is home to numerous institutions, architecture, attractions, and places to visit .

Topping the city's list of important cultural attractions is the stunningly designed Canadian Museum for Human Rights . This state-of-the-art museum features exhibits and collections describing human rights issues, as well as some of the best views over the city from its centerpiece Tower of Hope. Other cultural attractions worth seeing include the Manitoba Museum, which portrays the province's human and natural histories, and the Winnipeg Art Gallery with its impressive collection of Canadian and international art including the new area Quamajuq, and its Visible Vault showcasing 7,500 pieces of Inuit art.

For shopping and dining, The Forks Market can't be beat. Located at the famous junction of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, this lively entertainment area is a place to go in summer or winter. The R iverwalk Trail extends from here to the imposing Manitoba Legislative Building . Heading west and north from The Forks, the trail will take you to the Exchange District.

Technically, the resort town of Banff isn't quite large enough to be a city – but it's so beautiful that we didn't dare leave it off this list. Many visitors head to Canada expressly to witness the majestic Rocky Mountains up close and personal. At just an hour and a half from Calgary, Banff is easily accessible and, without a doubt, stunningly scenic.

The town of Banff is situated in Banff National Park , Canada's largest and most popular national park. As fun as it is to wander the streets of downtown Banff, the real action lies outside of town and within the park boundaries.

From skiing the local resorts to exploring Johnston Canyon , from hiking up mountains to taking a backcountry horseback riding tour, Banff is a mecca for adventurers and lovers of the outdoors.

Saint John, Canada's oldest incorporated city, teems with sights that will entice you to explore and indulge. Victorian architecture abounds in Uptown St John. Wander through these perfectly restored beauties and stop in at the Saint John City Market, North America's oldest, in operation since the 1870s, to sample the freshest seafood, meats, cheeses, fruit, and vegetables.

St John is also a cruise ship destination. There's a reason the big ships stop here - the multitude of things to see and do keeps passengers entertained. One of the best things to do is mere steps from the port; Container Village. This newly developed area is full of shops and restaurants, many with rooftop patios. The area isn't only for passengers, locals get to enjoy it as well and can participate in yoga classes, movie nights, and concert performances in the evening.

The city boasts several natural attractions, but none quite as fascinating as the Reversing Falls Rapids . Witnessing the tidal bore create a waterfall that flows in both directions is truly a remarkable sight that must be experienced firsthand.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in St. John

From its humble beginnings as a fur trading post in the early 1800s, the northern Ontario city of Thunder Bay has transformed into a delightful tourist destination that has become increasingly popular with domestic and international tourists alike.

In fact, the city's first real non-native settlement, historic Fort William, can still be visited, and provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives and conditions of the time. Opened to the public as a "living museum" in the 1970s, it now consists of 42 faithfully reconstructed buildings occupied by costumed guides keen to describe their characters' roles and lives "back in the day."

Thunder Bay also boasts a spectacular waterfront, much of which has been the subject of major redevelopment in recent years. Stroll the promenades, and admire the sculptures and parks, all the while catching glimpses of the famous Sleeping Giant, a peninsula of land that really does look like a large man lying down and resting.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Thunder Bay, Ontario

More on Canada

The best things to do in Canada: be inspired by these 21 epic experiences

Jan 5, 2023 • 14 min read

Plan your trip to Canada around these top experiences © stockstudioX / Getty Images

From sweeping coastal shorelines to craggy floating icebergs, glistening glacial lakes to the climbing canopy of ancient forests,  Canada ’s enthralling landscapes continue to beckon wonder-seekers from around the globe. 

The people spread across the world’s second-largest country are equally as diverse – a complex Indigenous history and growing immigrant population make for increasingly cosmopolitan cities, cutting-edge art and architecture, and creative cuisine.

Want to experience the very best of Canada? Here are 21 bucket-list-worthy things to do there.

1. Embark on an arctic safari in Churchill, Manitoba 

During a brief window from October to early November, upwards of 1200 polar bears converge in the enchanting town of  Churchill on their annual migration to the shores of the Hudson Bay. A polar bear tour is a must to make sure you don’t miss this quintessential Arctic experience. But even if you do, the “polar bear capital of the world” offers no shortage of wildlife year-round – from dog-sledding in the winter to bird-watching in the spring to kayaking with beluga whales in the summer. While you’re there, keep an eye out for the northern lights and be sure to tuck in to hearty local fare, such as elk meatloaf and bison stew.

2. Look for the northern lights in the Yukon 

Seeing the northern lights is always an awe-inspiring experience. While the celestial spectacle can be spotted as far south as Banff, the most epic display is undoubtedly found in the “Great White North.” On clear nights between mid-August to mid-April, you can catch the light show all over the  Yukon , with the most optimal viewing found outside the capital city of  Whitehorse .

Planning tip:  Whether by foot, plane, canoe, snowshoe or even dog-sled, you’re best off aurora hunting with a local tour operator who can provide expertise on viewing conditions as well as a toasty beverage to temper the arctic chill. 

3. Dine on the ocean floor in Nova Scotia’s Bay of Fundy

Twice each day, 160 billion tons of water empty the Bay of Fundy, creating a rare window of opportunity to dine on the ocean floor. Chef-led lessons on the wild edibles of  Nova Scotia are followed by a multi-course lunch or dinner topped off with a cozy campfire – all with the staggering  Cliffs of Fundy as your backdrop.

Designated a Unesco Global Geopark in the summer of 2020, the 90m (300ft) cliffs overlook the world’s highest tides – cresting taller than a five-story building – which invite 12 species of whales to feast on plankton each year. For a deep dive into the region’s history, head to the nearby  Fundy Geological Museum . 

4. Eat Montréal poutine and an iconic smoked meat sandwich 

It’s not hard to find  poutine – gravy-smothered thick-cut fries sprinkled with squeaky cheese curds – all over the country, but it’s in the chef’s town of  Montréal where you’ll find the most creative interpretations of Canada’s signature dish. Head to the 24-hour, poutine-worshipping restaurant  La Banquise for creative toppings, like guacamole and pulled pork, in an energetic space; or spots like  Montreal Pool Room  for the greasy-spoon dish without the fuss.

Another Montréal institution to prioritize is  Schwartz’s . For over 90 years, the famous deli has been sandwiching mountains of 10-day-marinated smoked meat between two slices of rye bread for the Montréal masses.

Planning tip:  The take-out counter at Schwartz's will tempt you to skip the line, but dining-in is worth the wait to eat your sandwich shoulder-to-shoulder with strangers and the veteran staff. Don’t forget the pickle and a cherry coke. 

5. Surf the misty shores of Tofino 

Canada might be known for winter sports, but its rugged coastlines and placid waterways make for equally as thrilling summer recreation too. With 35km (22 miles) of surfable beach, Vancouver Island ’s  Tofino is undoubtedly the country’s surf capital. Beginners will appreciate the gentle waves along Chesterman Beach and Cox Bay, while seasoned pros will want to hit the intense swells at Long Beach, the longest beach on the island. Not into surfing? The 10-mile beach is still worth visiting for whale-watching in the spring and autumn, and the surrounding  Pacific Rim National Park , home to some of the oldest trees in Canada.

Planning tip:  No longer a remote fishing village, Tofino’s laid-back surfer vibe attracts a large crowd in the summer. An off-season trip between November and February is best for fewer crowds and more nature, plus storm watching – an increasingly popular activity among photographers.

6. Camp in Saskatchewan’s prairie desert 

Stretching over 97km (60 miles) along the southern shore of Lake Athabasca,  Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park beckons seasoned hikers and environmentalists alike for its endemic flora and towering sand dunes – a rare sight in a  province known for its flat, prairie landscape. Reaching nearly 30m (100ft) high, the world’s most northerly sand dunes are also the largest active sand surface in the country.

Planning tip: The fragile ecosystem here is seriously safeguarded – each of the park’s three management zones has its own visitor guidelines, and you’ll need to take a floatplane or boat to get there. With few onsite services and guided tours, camping in this remote landscape is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for hardcore wilderness enthusiasts. 

7. Wander the cobblestone streets of Old Québec

Church bells ring from regal cathedrals while contemporary takes on traditional Québecois fare – think, tourtière (meat pie) and maple syrup-infused brunch – are served in former factories and historic homes. It’s hard not to get lost in Old Québec’s charm.

Designated a Unesco World Heritage Site in 1985 for its 400-year-old history, it’s the only fortified city you’ll find north of Mexico and a playground for history buffs. They won’t want to miss  Le Château Frontenac . Since opening in 1893, the famous Fairmont hotel has hosted countless celebrities and notable political events, like the Québec Conferences of WWII.

Planning tip: While most visitors frequent the upper section of Old Town, the real “Old Town” is found closer to the water. With buildings dating back to the 17th century, locals will tell you Lower Old Town is the real birthplace of the city. 

8. Immerse yourself in Indigenous culture on Manitoulin Island

Set on the shores of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay in Northern Ontario, Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world. It’s also home to the Odawa, Ojibwe and Pottawatomi peoples that make up the Anishinabek Nation. While the island’s seven reserves carry a heavy legacy of residential schools, today, First Nations culture is celebrated with a proud embrace of Indigenous foods, music and storytelling.

Planning tip:  Manitoulin Island is best experienced with a local guide who can walk you through the island’s history and surrounding nature and provide a taste of Anishinebek culture.

9. Taste Toronto's varied cuisine 

With more than half of the residents that make up  Toronto ’s 158 neighborhoods hailing from other countries – the city’s  7500 restaurants are arguably the most diverse in the world. In the absence of a clearly identifiable Canadian cuisine, collaboration and invention prevail in the kitchens of immigrant mom-and-pop shops and Michelin-starred celebrity chefs alike.

The city center provides no shortage of foodie adventures: from globally-inspired fine dining (such as Susur Lee’s eponymous restaurant Lee and Nick Bao’s DaiLo) to picturesque food markets (like  Evergreen Brickworks nestled in the verdant hills of the Don Valley and  St. Lawrence Market set in a light-speckled, century-old building).

Planning tip: Some of the city’s best-kept culinary secrets lie outside the urban core, in the sprawling suburbs known as the “GTA” (Greater Toronto Area), where restaurants in seemingly innocuous strip malls might showcase family recipes from many cultures.

10. Climb the cliffs of Gros Morne National Park

The signature red rock of the  Tablelands  of  Gros Morne National Park , in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, reveals the earth’s mantle, formed by the collision of tectonic plates nearly 500 million years ago. It’s a geological masterpiece, best viewed by foot on one of Gros Morne’s many trails that take you on a journey through lush boreal forests, majestic waterfalls and jagged cliffs overlooking the wind-swept shoreline.

Seasoned hikers can challenge themselves on the Long Range Traverse, a 34km (21-mile) trail that provides the most epic views of the Western Brook Pond Fjord from its near-vertical mountaintops soaring 610m (2000ft) into the sky. 

11. Savor the wine and design in Prince Edward County 

While British Columbia's arid  Okanagan Valley is Canada’s most obvious wine destination, the largest wine region is actually found in Ontario, where hundreds of wineries, some dating as far back as the late 19th century, are spread across three Designated Viticultural Areas – the  Niagara Peninsula ,  Prince Edward County , and the north shore of Lake Erie.

With limestone-rich soil lending itself to grape varieties with a distinct taste, Prince Edward County in particular attracts some of the country’s most innovative winemakers. And a creative crowd with an eye for aesthetics has followed – the region is now teeming with chic accommodations and tasting rooms set in bucolic barns.

Planning tip: The boutique  Drake Devonshire Inn is a destination in and of itself for seasonal eats and creative cocktails overlooking Lake Ontario. Design aficionados will want to check out refurbished motels like the  Drake Motor Inn .

12. Leaf peep on Cape Breton Island’s Cabot Trail 

Take in the dramatic highlands and rugged coasts of Nova Scotia’s  Cape Breton Island – considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world – from its famed Cabot Trail. The 299km (186-mile) loop spans an eight-hour, non-stop drive, but hiking or cycling a smaller section allows for a more leisurely pace.  Cape Breton Highlands National Park is where you’ll find the greatest selection of hiking trails, with the Skyline, Fishing Cove and Acadian trails being the most popular.

Planning tip:  Summer attracts the most visitors but the trail is most photogenic in the fall when its winding curves glow in autumn colors. 

13. Iceberg and whale watch on Fogo Island 

You can visit  Newfoundland and Labrador ’s Fogo Island year-round, but it’s the warmer months that offer the most epic experiences. Every spring, staggering 15,000-year-old icebergs sail down “Iceberg Alley,” while the season that follows sees the world’s largest population of humpback whales migrating off its storm-battered shorelines. Book a tour through the  Fogo Island Inn , but make sure to visit this architectural masterpiece in person. Perched on stilts overlooking the ocean, the 29-room retreat has gained an international reputation for its sustainability efforts, not to mention its remote location at one of the “four corners of the Earth.”

Planning tip:  Outside the hotel, verdant rolling hills speckled with colorful wooden homes are traversed with hiking trails for every skill level while the 18th-century Irish-settled town of Tilting, a National Historic Site of Canada, exudes East Coast warmth with the sounds of sea shanties and smells of simmering chowder wafting from its few cafes and pubs.

14. Explore Banff’s two most iconic lakes 

With its crystal turquoise water fed by the glaciers of the surrounding Rocky Mountains,  Lake Louise is a picture-postcard destination that lives up to the hype. With a flat, encircling path, you can easily hike or bike around the lake, or rent a canoe from the  Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel , where you’ll find pristine views of the lake and surrounding Bow Valley from the 1888 castle’s outdoor heated pool and some of its 12 restaurants. 

Equally as captivating as Lake Louise is nearby  Moraine Lake , set in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Open from May to October, it also attracts a lot of tourists – a peaceful sunrise visit avoids the crowds. Avid hikers can take in the glistening glacial waters and snow-capped peaks from the surrounding strenuous trails, and unwind afterward in a natural steaming bath at one of several nearby  hot springs . 

15. Hit the slopes in Whistler 

Every winter, alpine enthusiasts from around the world flock to Canada’s Rocky Mountains for the soaring slopes and pristine mountain views. But it’s the ski town of  Whistler that continues to draw the largest crowd. Set just two hours north of  Vancouver , the former venue of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic games straddles both Whistler and Blackcomb – two mountains teeming with ski trails for all levels of experience.

With varied elevations producing a diversity of terrains, each with their own unique seasonal attractions – think eagle tours among the colorful fall canopy and paddle-boarding glacier-fed lakes in the summer – Whistler appeals to thrill-seekers year-round.

Planning tip:  This is a destination for the less adventurous too – stylish accommodations, a blossoming arts scene and energetic après-ski bars have transformed Whistler village from a rustic ski town into a European-style retreat. 

16. Dig for dinosaurs in the Badlands 

Known as the “Dinosaur Capital of the World,” Alberta’s Dinosaur Valley is a dream destination for professional paleontologists and Jurassic Park fans alike. Home to the world’s richest dinosaur fossil site,  Dinosaur Provincial Park is protected grounds, so you’ll want to book a tour, but feel free to get lost in prehistoric times on a self-guided tour of the  Royal Tyrrell Museum , where you’ll encounter over 130,000 fossils and a giant, 67-million-year-old T-rex.

Planning tip:  The surrounding Badlands – with its mystical hoodoo spires and dusty, arid canyons – make for a scenic, wild west road trip. A stop in the nearby eccentric former coal town of  Drumheller is a must to climb inside the mouth of the world’s largest dinosaur. 

17. Satisfy your sweet tooth at a Québec sugar shack 

The stereotype holds true: Canadians love their maple syrup. Mid-March to mid-April offers a short window of time to savor it in its best form – straight from the tree. Every spring, upwards of 200  sugar shacks surrounding Montréal and Québec City open their doors for the annual maple syrup harvest. Take your pick of quaint, family-run  maple groves  where you can learn all about the sweet sap and make your own maple taffy by dropping the sticky syrup in the snow. The experience is topped off with a traditional Québécois feast of baked ham and beans, meat pies and hash browns, all smothered in maple syrup of course. 

18. Marvel at Niagara Falls 

Arguably Canada’s most touristy destination,  Niagara Falls is worth braving the crowds for a view of the  Horseshoe Falls : straddling the border between Ontario and New York, the largest of the three falls has the most powerful flow of any waterfall in North America. Immerse yourself in the fall’s majestic mist on a classic 20-minute Niagara cruise, or take in the views from the sky by way of helicopter, zipline or the Skylon Tower. Gaming  casinos and Clifton Hill’s many amusement attractions continue to be the main draw for entertainment-seekers of all ages.

Planning tip:  A short drive or shuttle ride north, you’ll find a calmer pace in  Niagara-on-the-Lake , where horse-drawn carriages shuttle visitors between world-class wineries and local shops set in colonial buildings. 

19. Skate Ottawa’s Rideau Canal 

Every winter, the 8km (5-mile) long river that cuts through the heart of  Ottawa freezes over to become the world’s largest skating rink. As the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America, the  Rideau Canal dates back to 1832 and makes a wintery, picturesque backdrop for taking in the country’s capital city. The classic Canadian experience is rounded out with pit-stops for steaming hot chocolate and crispy beaver tails – fried dough pastry layered with sweet toppings like Nutella and cinnamon sugar.

Planning tip:  If you're visiting in the summer you can cruise the Rideau canal by boat, bike the Rideau Canal pathway or take to the skies on the 365m (1200ft)  Interzip Rogers , the world’s first interprovincial zipline. 

20. Walk the Toronto skyline 

Adrenaline junkies can lean over Canada’s largest city in the open air on the  EdgeWalk : a wide ledge set outside the  CN Tower ’s main pod. Towering 550m (1800ft) above Toronto , the CN Tower has long been one of the country’s most popular attractions for its unbeatable, 360-degree views. But the addition of the world’s highest hands-free external walk – a Guinness World Record breaker and the first of its kind in North America – has skyrocketed the tourist site to international attention.

Planning tip: Book a table at CN Tower’s  360 Restaurant , where you’ll find award-winning Canadian-sourced cuisine served in a sleek setting, and the “cellar in the sky,” the world’s highest wine cellar. 

21. Bike the Vancouver Seawall 

With nearby outdoor challenges like hiking the steep wooden steps of  Grouse Mountain – aptly nicknamed “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster” – and  Lynn Canyon Park ’s  Suspension Bridge , Vancouver tends to attract a competitive athletic crowd. A much more inviting and leisurely outdoor experience is found right in the city along the  False Creek Seawall .

While you can easily walk or rollerblade sections of the two-way paved path, cycling is best to take in all the 23km-long (14-mile) route has to offer. Beginning in  Coal Harbour and ending at  Kitsilano Beach , the seaside path winds you through some of the city’s best destinations, like  Stanley Park ,  English Bay and  Jericho Beach .

Planning tip:  Make time to refuel at  Granville Island Public Market, where locals and visitors dine at world-class gourmet food stalls while admiring eclectic art and tranquil harbor views. 

This article was first published September 2021 and updated January 2023

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• 40 Best Places To Visit In Canada In 2024 That Will Leave You Spellbound

23 Mar 2023

The best places to visit in Canada are proof that the country has a heart bigger than its size when it comes to satiating the wanderlust of every type of traveller. You would happily agree with us once you see them with your own eyes. Be it the lakes, the gardens, or the cities as a whole, Canada has got it all that would make your holiday worthwhile! Explore the cosmopolitan Toronto streets and the mountains of the Canadian Rockies. There are a whole lot of destinations that you can visit in this second-largest country in the world. Canada will mesmerize you with its vibrant landscapes, raw nature, and soul-filling culture. No wonder, people often flock to Canada for a dose of adventure and exuberance. Take a look at these places in Canada so that you know which ones you need to put on the top of your list!

40 Best Places To Visit In Canada In 2024

Canada is a country that has half of its land covered in forests, which should come as no surprise as one-tenth of the total forests of the world are in Canada. Thinking about exploring Canada? Here is the perfect list of the great places to visit in Canada on your trip. Take a look at the best places in Canada and choose which ones are you going to explore on your trip!

• Niagara Falls : An Elegant View
• Whistler : Your Perfect Ski Resort
• Quebec City : Explore The French Influence
• St. John’s : An Artist’s Retreat
• Tofino : A Water Lover’s Paradise
• Churchill : Seek Tons Of Adventure
• Old Montreal : Discover An Old-World Charm
• Banff National Park : A Popular Destination
• Stanley Park : The French Connection
• Butchart Gardens : A Picture-Perfect Land
• Okanagan Valley : A Paradise For Tourists
• Gros Morne National Park : Explore The Geological Diversity
• Algonquin Provincial Park : A Perfect Spot For Tourists
• Yoho National Park : A Must Visit Destination
• CN Tower, Toronto : For A Remarkable Time
• Lake Louise : Perfect For Adventure Sports
• Bay Of Fundy : Witness The Oceanic Experience
• The Yukon : A Magical Delight
• Garibaldi Lake : With Wondrous Sights
• Pyramid Lake : A Picturesque Water Resource
• Cheakamus Lake : For Stunning Views
• Maligne Lake : Paradise For Photographers
• Hornby Island : A Simple Slice Of Land
• Cape Breton : An Unexplored Land
• Forillon National Park : Hike The Untamed Trails
• Moraine Lake : Witness The Clear Reflection Of Mountains
• Perce Rock : Admire The Natural Beauty
• Mingan Monoliths : Gape At The Oldest Monoliths
• Jasper National Park : Get Ready For Adventure
• Peggy’s Cove : Explore The Hidden Gem
• Mount Logan : Stand On The Highest Peak In Canada
• Osoyoos : Taste Wine & Get The Best Views
• Columbia Icefield Skywalk : Watch The Beauty From Up Top
• The Grotto : Haven For Adventure Fanatics
• Montmorency Falls : Explore The Highest Falls
• Capilano Suspension Bridge : Lap Of Nature Calls You
• Waterton Lakes National Park : Bags All The Titles
• Prince Edward Island:  For A Splendid Game Of Golf
• Kluane National Park and Reserve:  For Wildlife Enthusiasts
• Mont Tremblant:  For Skiing Activities

1. Niagara Falls: An Elegant View

If there is one destination you’d find in every ‘best places to visit in Canada during summers’ list, it is Niagara Falls. Built along the spellbinding waterfalls of the same name, this famous city is an ideal place to explore if you’re looking for a magical experience. It is indeed one of the most iconic and best places to visit in Canada. Have a great time enjoying the views and clicking pictures of the cascading falls. You’ll have an unparalleled sightseeing experience when you visit Niagara Falls at night. Counted among the best places to visit in Canada in the summer, Niagara Falls is worth exploring on your next trip to this amazing country. 

Best time to visit: June – August How to reach: The nearest airport is Buffalo-Niagara International Airport which is just 30-40 minutes away from Niagara Falls. You can take a cab and reach the falls easily. Things To Do:

• Witness the gorgeous waterfalls
• Get your game on at the Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort
• Spend time at the MarineLand

Location: Ontario, Canada

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2. Whistler: Your Perfect Ski Resort

Home to one of the largest ski resorts in North America, Whistler is one of the best places in Canada for winter holidays! Skiing, snowshoeing, and tobogganing are a few of the thrilling sports to indulge in for enjoying this captivating snow land. So, if you are a thrill seeker, then Whistler is one of the best places to visit in Canada for you! If you’re travelling from Vancouver to Whistler, then you can call a cab that will make you reach in about 1 hour 30 minutes. You can choose from the best hotels in Edmonton for a lavish stay in Canada.

Best time to visit: June – August, December – March How to reach: The nearest airport is Vancouver International Airport which is 2.5 hours away from Whistler. You can take a cab and reach Whistler easily. 

Things To Do:

• Indulge in snowmobiling
• Witness the town’s vibrant culture by visiting the art museums and cultural centres
• Dine at 21 Steps or Alta Bistro

Location: British Columbia, Canada

3. Quebec City: Explore The French Influence

Renowned as North America’s oldest walled city, and the most beautiful city in Canada and considered top Canada tourist places, which you must visit with your partner if magic, romance, and all things French are what tickles your fancy the most. Have an amazing time with your partner in the magical Quebec City. It is one of the most enchanting and the cool places to see in Canada because of the art and cultural scenes.

Best time to visit: June, September – December How to reach: The nearest airport is Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport. You can take a cab from the airport to reach the city easily.

• Visit historic attractions like The Citadel
• Relax at the Battlefields Park
• Walk along the scenic Terrasse Dufferin

Location: Québec, Canada

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4. St. John’s: An Artist’s Retreat

When in Canada places to visit can be abundant and spoil you with its choices. One of the best places to visit in Canada with family which is popular for its jelly-beaned & crayon-colored houses, and being an artist’s retreat, St. John’s is like a mini San Francisco. Considered as one of the best cities to visit in Canada, you can explore the city with an open heart. Despite being the oldest city, the vibe of this place is as refreshing as that of any metro town, which is perfect for any of your holidays. Also, do not miss the Water Street when you are here!

Best time to visit: April – May, September – October How to reach: The nearest airport is St. John’s International Airport from where you can take a cab and reach the destination. 

• Visit the Cape Spear Lighthouse
• Learn about the local culture and history at The Rooms
• Shop and eat at the famous Water Street

Location: Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

5. Tofino: A Water Lover’s Paradi

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If you can’t imagine a holiday without a beach, Tofino is the place for you! It’s a paradise for water lovers and a haven for people seeking comfort in their cosy hotel rooms after spending a long day out in the town. Have a great time by the beach in Tofino. It is one of the places to go in Canada for an exotic beach time.

Best time to visit: March-May, September – November How to reach: The nearest airport is Tofino-Ucluelet Airport from where you can take a cab and reach Tofino easily.  Things To Do:

• Explore the famous beaches like Long Beach and Chesterman Beach
• Try the popular fish tacos
• Indulge in kayaking and camping at Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Location: Vancouver Island, Canada

Suggested Read: Niagara Falls in Canada

6. Churchill: Seek Tons Of Adventure

If you are looking for Canada tourist places, this is the one you must check out. This small town located on Hudson Bay definitely counts as one of the top places to visit in Canada. Known as the polar bear capital of the world, Churchills is the perfect hotspot for travellers who love having a close encounter with wildlife. It is also a great destination for adventure seekers and one can enjoy underwater activities here.

Best time to visit: October – November How to reach: The nearest airport is Churchill Airport from where you can take a cab and reach Churchill.  Things To Do:

• Swim or snorkel with Beluga whales
• Explore Fort Prince of Wales
• Take a Tundra Buggy tour

Location: Manitoba, Canada

7. Old Montreal: Discover An Old-World Charm

If you are wondering where to go in Canada, then make sure Montreal comes to your mind. Old-world charm, spectacular buildings, and horse-drawn carriages are pretty much what describe the fascinating aura of this oldest area in Montreal. For travellers in pursuit of a peaceful & unique experience, this is the perfect place to be! Have a great time with your folks in one of the best places to visit in Canada.

Best time to visit: March-May, September-November How to reach: The best way to reach Old Montreal is by opting for a ride in the metro stations. There are three metro stations on the orange line – Square-Victoria, Place-d’Armes, and Champ-de-Mars. You can get down at any of these stations to reach Old Montreal.  Things To Do In Montreal:

• Explore the underground city
• Rejuvenate at the Spa Scandinave
• Take the Old Montreal food tour

Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada

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8. Banff National Park: A Popular Destination

Chances are, you have already heard of Banff National Park in Canada a lot of times. And why not, it is among the top Canada destinations every traveller must visit and among the best things to do in Alberta , Canada. Turquoise-colored lakes, spectacular glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and mesmerizing landscapes, everything beautiful can be witnessed here at once. Excited to visit? You should be since it is one of the best places to visit in Canada.

Best time to visit: June-August, December-March How to reach: The nearest airport is Calgary International Airport from where you can take a cab and reach the national park easily.  Things To Do:

• Capture the beauty of Lake Louise and Bow Lake
• Take a ride in the Banff Gondola
• Go for hiking or whitewater rafting

Timings: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM every day Location: 224 Banff Avenue, Town of Banff, Alberta, Canada

9. Stanley Park: The French Connection

Vancouver is one of the most famous French cities in Canada which is a popular destination among travelers. If the red-orange coloured trees shown in movies have always tickled your fancy, Stanley Park is one place you have to visit in Canada. The red cedar and Douglas fir trees around with a gorgeous view of the city would not only leave you spellbound but also make you fall for nature again. Do visit the park, especially when searching for some of the famous places in Canada.Among the top 10 tourist attractions in Canada, Stanley Park offers a wholesome experience to all.

Best time to visit: Late-March, April, June-October How to reach: To reach Stanley Park, you can either take a bus or opt for a car ride in the city and reach the destination within a few minutes. Things To Do:

• Walk through the majestic cedars and firs
• Indulge in biking or rollerblading
• Take a ride in the Miniature Train

Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day Location: Vancouver, BC V6G 1Z4, Canada

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10. Butchart Gardens: A Picture-Perfect Land

Of all the top tourist attractions in Canada, Butchart Gardens is the best place to explore with a camera in hand. With an enchanting display of flowers around, fun boat tours, night illuminations & more, there’s a lot to see and do here that will make your holiday vibrant! Ready to capture some Instagram-worthy pictures? Gear up to explore every corner of this one of the best spots to visit in Canada. 

Best time to visit: July & August How to reach: One of the best ways to reach here is by taking bus number 75 which takes around an hour from downtown Victoria to the Butchart Gardens. Things To Do:

• Capture the gorgeous flowers around
• Witness the fireworks show designed by Disney
• Indulge in ice skating

Timings: 8:45 AM to 10:00 PM Location: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

11. Okanagan Valley: A Paradise For Tourists

Known for its wineries and fruit orchards, the Okanagan is one of the best places in Canada to visit. A walk into the region here makes you feel like you have stepped right into heaven. So, try and savor the beauty around not just with your eyes, but also with your camera. Book yourself a wine tour at one of its wineries!

Best time to visit: June-September How to reach: The nearest airport is Kelowna International Airport from where you can take a cab and reach the destination easily.  Things To Do:

• Visit the Sperling Vineyards or Mission Hill Winery
• Spend time at the Okanagan Lake
• Take a tour of the Kelowna region

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12. Gros Morne National Park: Explore The Geological Diversity

This national park is one of the Canada points of interest you must visit and explore. Geologically diverse and beautiful, it is a part of Long Range Mountains , which makes it the best place to visit in Canada for the first time for a nature admirer like you! Enjoy nature walks and stroll into the wild at this stunning national park.

Best time to visit: late May  to mid-October How to reach: The nearest airport is located at Deer Lake which is just 30 minutes away from the park. From there, you can take a cab and reach the Gros Morne National Park easily.  Things To Do:

• Walk through the Tablelands
• Enjoy mesmerizing views from the Western Brook Pond Cruise
• Go on a wilderness hike in the Long Range Mountains

13. Algonquin Provincial Park: A Perfect Spot For Tourists

With lush green forests, enchanting rivers & lakes, this place makes for the best tourist places in Canada for anyone who loves nature. You can indulge in wildlife spotting, camping, canoeing, and more activities during your visit, which ensures you take back home more than just pictures. What more can you ask for on a vacation?

Best time to visit: Mid-September to early October How to reach: Take a taxi from any part of the city to reach Algonquin Provincial Park in just a few minutes.  Things to do:

• Experience backcountry camping
• Enjoy dog sledging, fishing, and whitewater canoeing
• Indulge in wildlife spotting

Location: Ontario 60, Ontario K0J 2M0, Canada

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14. Yoho National Park: A Must Visit Destination

Of all the Canada tourist places, Yoho National Park located in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains falls under nature lovers’ visit places in Canada. Its gorgeously massive Wapta and Takakkaw Falls make it ideal for your Canada holiday pictures. Enjoy the sight of the cascading falls.

Best time to visit: Mid-May to early October How to reach: The best way to reach Yoho National Park is by taking a cab from your hotel to this place as there is no other service that you can avail of.  Things To Do:

• Enjoy a serene drive up to Takakkaw Falls
• Stroll along the Emerald Lake
• Take a bike ride on the Yoho Valley Road

Location: Field, BC V0A 1G0, Canada

15. CN Tower, Toronto: For A Remarkable Time

Looking for the best places to visit in Canada Toronto? Touching and beautifying the Toronto skyline, CN Tower will be the perfect destination for you. Be it dining at the 360 Restaurant, indulging in edge walking on the glass outside, or just admiring the views of the city from the top, this iconic landmark is the most apt place to visit. Do add it to your amazing list of best places to visit in Canada for couples. You can choose from the best hotels in Toronto and explore the city’s best attractions and views on your holiday.

Best time to visit: late-April to May & mid-September to mid-October How to reach: There are several ways to reach CN Tower and the best one is to take a ride in the local bus and reach one of these stations – St West at Blue Jays Way, Queens Quay West at Rees St., and Adelaide St West at John St East Side.   Things To Do In Toronto:

• Indulge in the world’s highest ‘hands-free’ walk
• Eat at the award-winning 360 Restaurant
• Capture the beauty of Toronto from the top of the tower

Timings: 8:30 AM to 10:30 PM Location: 301 Front St W, Toronto, ON M5V 2T6, Canada

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16. Lake Louise: Perfect For Adventure Sports

There is no doubt that this lake is one of the most beautiful places in Canada. Apart from admiring the turquoise lakes , the Victoria Glacier, and spectacular mountains in the backdrop, you can also indulge in kayaking or fishing in the summer which makes it an awesome places to visit in Canada in April, and snowshoeing & skiing in the winters amongst the best things to do in Victoria for an exciting vacation in Canada. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to lose yourself by visiting Lake Louise in Canada.

Best time to visit: late-June to mid-September How to reach: The nearest airport is Calgary International Airport which is about 2 hours away from Lake Louise.  Things To Do:

• Indulge in snowboarding at Lake Louise Ski Resort
• Explore the village of Lake Louise
• Attend the Ice Magic Festival

Location: Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada

17. Bay Of Fundy: Witness The Oceanic Experience

Popular for offering the famous ‘walk on the ocean’ experience, this is one of the most heartwarming Canada tourist attractions. You can witness the highest tides in the world here, and also various species of whales at the same time. This is undeniably one of the most famous places in Canada that you must explore. Excited to visit the Bay of Fundy?

Best time to visit: June – August How to reach: The best way to reach the Bay of Fundy is by opting for the railway’s services as it is the only way available. Things To Do:

• Enjoy the tidal bore rafting
• Take pictures of the whales
• Go for golfing in the Canadian Maritimes

Location: New Brunswick, Canada

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18. The Yukon: A Magical Delight

Sometimes a gorgeous sight is all you need to make your holiday magical. The dance of the northern lights in the sky easily visible from Whitehorse or Dempster Highway makes Yukon one of the best places to travel in Canada, especially during winter. So, do make sure you put this on your list and have a magical trip.

Best time to visit: May – October How to reach: To reach The Yukon, you will have to reach Vancouver first from where you can take a boat cruise to The Yukon. Things To Do:

• Witness the northern lights in Whitehorse or Dempster Highway
• Fly over the Kluane National Park
• Explore the Takhini Hot Springs

Location: Yukon, NW, Canada

19. Garibaldi Lake: With Wondrous Sights

The turquoise waters and the snowy Canada mountains make this place a postcard-perfect beauty. While you can indulge in hiking and a lot of activities here, leaving your camera alone is something you wouldn’t want to do even for a second. Try to capture all the wondrous sights that this park has to offer. Make sure that you include it in your list and it is one of the must-visit places in Canada.

Best time to visit: July – September How to reach: The best way to reach Garibaldi Lake is by taking a taxi from your destination.  Things To Do:

• Enjoy overnight camping
• Experience the fun of snowshoeing
• Relax by the lake and capture the picturesque beauty as memories

Location: Garibaldi Provincial Park, British Columbia, Canada

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20. Pyramid Lake: A Picturesque Water Resource

If you’re looking for the best tourist places in Canada, this lake should definitely be on your list. Apart from experiences like windsurfing, canoeing, and ice skating, the picturesque beauty of this place makes it a famous tourist spot and a paradise for photographers. Do not forget your camera behind! You can choose from the best guest houses in Ottawa for a comfortable stay in Canada.

Best time to visit: October – June How to reach: The nearest airport is Reno-Tahoe International Airport from where you can take a taxi to reach the destination.  Things To Do:

• Admire the beauty of the lake with the Pyramid Mountain in the background
• Indulge in kayaking, canoeing, or sailing
• Spot birds like herons, loons, and chickadee

Location: Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada

21. Cheakamus Lake: For Stunning Views

One of the best places to visit in Canada, the Cheakamus lake is famous among travelers due to the beautiful hike it offers. It is one of the best hikes that leads to stunning mountain views. The hike is relatively easy and one can enjoy lakeside picnics. It is one of the best places to visit in Canada during the summer.

Best time to visit: July – August How to reach: The best way to reach Cheakamus Lake is by driving west along Highway 1 towards Horseshoe Bay and then take Highway 99 towards Whistler. If you continue driving, you will reach the lake.  Things To Do:

• Go hiking in Garibaldi Provincial Park along the Cheakamus lake.
• Enjoy mountain biking on the scenic trails
• Have a peaceful lakeside picnic with your friends and folks

Location: Garibaldi Provincial Park

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22. Maligne Lake: Paradise For Photographers

One can enjoy Canada sightseeing by enjoying the scenic views the country offers to its travellers. One of the unique places to visit in Canada is Maligne Lake which is situated at the centre of the Jasper National Park. It is a stunning turquoise-coloured jewel, amidst lush green environs.

Best time to visit: May – October How to reach: The best way to reach the lake by taking a car or taxi ride as it is the only way available.  Things To Do:

• Experience camping by the lakeside here
• Adventure seekers can try glacier kayaking in Canada
• Try your luck at fishing

Location: Jasper National Park

23. Hornby Island: A Simple Slice Of Land

Hornby Island is a rural, simple, relaxed and incredibly beautiful island located in the calm waters of Georgia Strait in the Salish Sea between Vancouver Island and the mainland. The island has lots of calm waters, sandy beaches, lush forests, and miles of hiking trails bringing a huge number of tourists as it is one of the best places to visit in Canada. Visiting the island is just one of the exciting things to do in British Columbia .

Best time to visit: May – June How to reach: The nearest airport is Comox International Airport from where you can reach the destination easily.  Things To Do:

• Visit the beaches and parks
• Swim and sunbathe at Helliwell Park, Whaling Station Bay and Little Tribune Bay
• Shop at the Isla de Lerena Vineyard, and Middle Mountain Mead
• Take part in the Hornby Festival

Location : British Columbia

Suggested Read: 11 Resorts In British Columbia 

24. Cape Breton: An Unexplored Land

Image Source One of the best places to visit in Canada, Cape Breton, located in the eastern end of Nova Scotia has a rich heritage with French, aboriginal, Scottish, Irish, and English origins of the people who live here. This piece of land is undisturbed and unexplored through centuries. This is one of the best places to visit in Canada. The Cabot Trail is a roadway is the backbone of travel around Cape Breton which passes through forests and a rugged coastline. You can also visit one of the popular National Parks of Canada i.e. the Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Best time to visit: July – August How to reach: Drive from mainland Nova Scotia through the Canso Causeway and reach Cape Breton Island.  Things To Do:

• Enjoy the Celtic Colours festival in mid-October
• Play golf at the Cabot Links or Highland Links
• Hike along the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail

Location:  Nova Scotia

25. Forillon National Park: Hike The Untamed Trails

One of the best places to see in Canada, is it tucked between the Gulf of St. Lawrence in Quebec and the Bay of Gaspe, Forillon National Park is home to several untamed hiking trails which has attracted several trekkers from not only Canada but from all around. While exploring the park, you will find several beaches, fishing villages, and steep cliffs. Moreover, there are more than 700 species of plants in the park including white and yellow birch, maple, and fir. There is no doubt in the fact that it is one of the best places in Canada for nature lovers.

Best time to visit: August How to reach: The nearest airport is Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport or Montreal or Jean Lesage International Airport from where you can take a cab and reach the National Park.  Things to do: 

• Explore the trekking trails of this park.
• Witness the wildlife in their natural habitat

Location:  2286 Bd de Grande Greve, Gaspé, QC G4X 6L7, Canada

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26. Moraine Lake: Witness The Clear Reflection Of Mountains

Wondering where to go in Canada? Settled in the heart of Banff National Park, Moraine Lake is around nine miles long and probably one of the most beautiful places to see in Canada . The lake is filled with fresh glacial waters and is a popular spot for fishermen. The best part about this tourist spot is that you will get to see several sceneries which you can capture for memories. It is probably the best spot for photographers as the place offers mesmerizing landscapes. 

Best time to visit: Mid-June – July How to reach: The nearest airport is Calgary Airport from where you can take a cab to reach the lake. 

• Things to do: 
• Opt for kayaking and canoeing.
• Explore the hiking trails.

Location:  Moraine Lake, Improvement District No. 9, AB, Canada

27. Perce Rock: Admire The Natural Beauty

While exploring the majestic St. Laurence River, you will find an enormous rock which is rising out of the sea in the middle of the river. The rock is named Perce Rock and is one of the top places to go in Canada for exploring natural beauty. You can also visit the nearby Perce village and hear stories about a sea monster. It is believed that the mood of the sea when the colour of the eyes of the monster changed. A trip to Canada is incomplete without exploring this place. 

Best time to visit: July – August How to reach: The nearest Canada airport is Michel-Pouliot Gaspé Airport from where you can take a cab and reach the destination.  Things to do: 

• Mingle with the locals and get to know about the traditional stories.
• Capture picturesque views. 

Location:  Percé, Quebec, Canada

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28. Mingan Monoliths: Gape At The Oldest Monoliths

Created 450 million years ago by nature, the Mingan Islands is a group of 40 islands that are explored by true nature lovers. The most striking features of these islands are majestic limestone monoliths are rising out of the sea, making it one of the best travel spots in Canada. Some of these structures are bare and others are covered with vegetation. If you are planning a vacation to Canada then make sure that you include Mingan Monoliths in your itinerary as it is one of the tourist attractions in Canada .

Best time to visit: July – early-September How to reach: The nearest airport is Riviere Au Tonnerre Airport which is just 40 km away. You can take a cab and reach your destination. Things to do: 

• Explore the nearby places at your own pace. 

Location:  1010 Promenade Des Anciens, Havre-Saint-Pierre, QC G0G 1P0, Canada

29. Jasper National Park: Get Ready For Adventure

Looking for adventurous and the best places to visit in Canada? Well, head to Jasper National Park which will not only offer amazing sceneries to capture but also various activities to indulge in. The park is home to many turquoise lakes and peaks that are worth capturing for your social media accounts. The views will appease your adventurous soul as well as put you into a state of euphoria. 

Best time to visit: March-May, September-November How to reach: <span style=The nearest airports are Edmonton International Airport (YEG) and Calgary International Airport (YYC) which are four to five hours away from the national park.  Things to do: 

• Hike and traverse through the national park.
• Capture amazing pictures.

Location:  Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada

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30. Peggy’s Cove: Explore The Hidden Gem

Wondering where to visit in Canada ? Here is a picturesque place for you which is famous for its lighthouse. The lighthouse was built in the year 1915. Despite being a small place to explore, millions of travellers come to explore this place every year and spend some time unwinding. Peggy’s Cove is popular among locals and travellers due to its delicious seafood, fishing villages and beautiful sceneries. 

Best time to visit: November – April How to reach: The nearest airport is Halifax Stanfield International Airport from where you can take a cab to reach the destination. Location:  Peggys Cove, NS, Canada Things to do:  Explore the famous lighthouse. Relish tasty seafood and visit the nearby village.

31. Mount Logan: Stand On The Highest Peak In Canada

Want to get higher? Obviously altitude-wise! Then, head to Mount Logan which is the highest peak in the whole of Canada. There is doubt in the fact that it is one of the best places to go in Canada to savour some amazing views from up top. The mountain was named after Sir William Edmond Logan who was a Canadian geologist as well as the founder of the Geological Survey of Canada.

Things To Do: Trekking Location: Yukon, Canada

Suggested Read: 15 Best Places To Visit In Canada In Winter 

32. Osoyoos: Taste Wine & Get The Best Views

If you want to witness the warmest welcome in Canada then you must visit Osoyoos. It is the most beautiful stretch in the Okanagan Valley where you get the best views of Canada. In addition to this, it is one of the major wine-producing regions of Canada so you can go for a wine tasting tour. Due to all these factors, Osoyoos is always counted among the top Canada tourist spots.If you want to witness the warmest welcome in Canada then you must visit Osoyoos. It is the most beautiful stretch in the Okanagan Valley where you get the best views of Canada. In addition to this, it is one of the major wine-producing regions of Canada so you can go for a wine tasting tour. Due to all these factors, Osoyoos is always counted among the top Canada tourist spots. Among the spectacular tourist sites in Canada , Osoyoos offers an amazing experience to food lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Best time to visit: May – August How to reach: You can easily reach the destination by arriving at ANC Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and from there grab a cab. Best time to visit: June – August How to reach: There are several ways to reach Osoyoos and they include car, bus or airplane. When in Osoyoos, you can hire a taxi to explore the tourist attractions. Things To Do: Sightseeing, wine tour, paddle boat Location: British Columbia, Canada

33. Columbia Icefield Skywalk: Watch The Beauty From Up Top

If you want to feel more alive than ever then Canada is just the right place for you. Gear up to walk on the Columbia Icefield Skywalk which is located 280 meters above Sunwapta Canyon. This one-kilometre walkway is stretched 35 meters ahead to give an amazing view of nature. This glass floor is almost as high as the CN Tower so, get ready to get this experience. This is one of the top places to see in Canada for all adventure junkies!Also, if you are looking for cool places to visit in Canada, explore Columbia Icefield Skywalk.

Best time to visit: Any time of the year How to reach: To reach this place you will first have to reach Columbia Icefield Discovery Center from where you can avail of free shuttle services to the skywalk. Things To Do: Photography and exploring nature Location: Icefields Pkwy, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada

Suggested Read: Go Glacier Kayaking In Canada 

34. The Grotto: Haven For Adventure Fanatics

Wondering where to visit in Canada for diving into water then here is a perfect solution for you. The Grotto in Bruce Peninsula National Park is the perfect place for adventure seekers as this spot gives a chance to cliff jump into crystal clear water. You will first have to hike to the cliff and then plan a jump for a thrilling experience. You will find a few adventure junkies here as it is one of the best places in Canada for a fun activity.

Best time to visit: mid-May – late-October How to reach: Hire a car to reach Bruce Peninsula National Park if you want to explore the Gotto. Things To Do: Sightseeing and nature walks Location: Northern Bruce Peninsula, ON N0H 2R0, Canada

35. Montmorency Falls: Explore The Highest Falls

If you are planning a vacation to Quebec, then you must head to Montmorency Falls which is located just 12 kilometres away from the heart of the city. They are the highest falls in the country being 100 feet higher than the famous Niagara Falls. The best part of these falls is that you can take a good look at these falls by going for a walk over the suspension bridge. In addition to this, there are several staircases to witness the true beauty of the falls.

Best time to visit: June – September and December – February How to reach: You can reach these falls either by taking a car or bus ride from any part of Quebec. Things To Do: Sightseeing Location: 5300 Boulevard Sainte-Anne, Québec, QC G1C 1S1, Canada

Suggested Read: Christmas In Chicago

36. Capilano Suspension Bridge: Lap Of Nature Calls You

Wondering what places to explore in Canada in Canada to challenge yourself? Then, head to this suspension bridge in British Columbia! It is 140 meters long and 70 meters high above the river and taking a stroll through the thick green forest will make you fall in love with this place. If you have a fear of heights then you might want to skip this place. But if not then make sure that you take a walk here as it is one of the top tourist places in Canada.

Best time to visit: November How to reach: You can either take a car to reach the destination or take bus number 236 to reach the bridge. Things To Do: Cliff walk, adventure activities, and sightseeing Location: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1, Canada

37. Waterton Lakes National Park: Bags All The Titles

One look at it and the scene might look unreal to you at first! Yes, Waterton Lakes National Park is one of the most beautiful Canadian National Parks which is why it is the only park in the whole world that has received all three designations – UNESCO World Heritage Site, Biosphere Reserve, and International Peace Park. This means that you might get to see a glimpse of cougars, bison, and wolves. Another amazing part about this place is that you can kayak your way over the border to reach Montana. If you’re still where to visit in Canada, this is the place to be.

Best time to visit: May – September How to reach: The place is located at the end of Highway 5 so you will have to drive to this highway as there are no bus services to the lake. Things To Do: Explore lakes and go for trek trails Location: AB-5, Waterton Park, AB T0K 2M0, Canada

Suggested Read: 5 Best Spots For Scuba Diving In Canada 

38. Prince Edward Island: For A Splendid Game Of Golf

One of the best places to go in Canada, this island is home to some brilliant golf courses where you can practice your swing or play a game amidst serene surroundings. The breathtaking landscape of this island will rejuvenate your soul and recharge you after an exhausting trip of several adventures in Canada. The lush green hills and the delicious seafood are a major attraction for this island. Look out for the adorable harp seal while you’re at it. It is also one of the best places to visit in Canada . 

Best time to visit: July – August How to reach: Whether you drive across the Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick, take a ride on the ferry from Nova Scotia, or fly into the Charlottetown airport, you’ll find our Island easy to navigate. Visit charming towns, vibrant cities, and quaint villages. A new adventure around every turn. Things To Do: Visit scenic beaches, hiking trails, historic homes and golf Location: Prince Edward Island, Canadian Province

39. Kluane National Park and Reserve: For Wildlife Enthusiasts

Home to Canada’s highest peaks, the country’s largest ice field and diverse flora and fauna, the Kluane National Park and Reserve is one of the best places in Canada to visit for adventure travellers, explorers and wildlife enthusiasts. Situated in the southwest corner of the Yukon, this park has some beautiful trekking trails on the icefield ranges of the St. Elias Mountains making it one of the best Canada tourist attractions.

Best time to visit: June – September How to reach: You can reach Kluane by driving 160 km west from Whitehorse on the Alaska Highway. Whitehorse is serviced by regular commercial flights. Take the Alaska Marine Highway ferry system to Haines or Skagway, Alaska. Things To Do: Skiing, Trekking, Hiking, Mountaineering, Bird Watching Location: Unorganized Yukon, YT Y0B 1H0, Canada

Suggested Read : 7 Places To Visit Near Abbotsford 

40. Mont Tremblant: For Skiing Activities

Tucked away in the Laurentian Mountains of Montreal, the Mont-Tremblant is known for skiing activities, it’s most famous for its ski resort which is situated in the foothills of Mont-Tremblant mountain known to be amongst the best Canadian tourist places. Mont-Tremblant also has a racing track called Circuit Mont-Tremblant making it one of the must-see places in Canada.

Best time to visit: November to February; June to August How to reach: Drive highway 93 North, then 89 North to U.S./Canada border. Follow route 133 North to 10 West towards Montreal. Follow signs to highway 15 North. Take autoroute 15 North to Saint-Jerome and Sainte-Agathe. Things To Do: Skiing Location: Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, Canada

Further Read: Top Beaches In Canada 

So, which of these places in Canada are you planning to visit during your holiday? Don’t think much, pack your bags and book your trip to Canada and try visiting each of the above-listed best places to visit in Canada! Do not forget to share this amazing list with your friends!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Canada

What is the most beautiful part of Canada?

North America's oldest walled city doesn’t just boast a single destination abound with beauty but there are countless places to visit where you will find nature and people come together to create some stunning experiences. Some of these places are Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Ontario.

Where should I go in Canada for the first time?

If you are visiting Canada for the first time, we would recommend an itinerary focused on three key attractions: Banff National Park, Whistler, and Niagara Falls.

Where should I spend my vacation in Canada?

If you are travelling to Canada on a vacation, assuming that the duration of your travel is longer than a week, some of the top contenders are Banff, Vancouver, and Prince Edward Island.

Which are some of the must-visit places in Canada for couples?

Jasper National Park, Banff, Niagara Falls, Vancouver, Montreal, Quebec City, Victoria & Vancouver Island, Prince Edwards Island, Yoho National Park, and Pyramid Lake are amongst the must-visit places in Canada. The mentioned places are ideal for nature lovers.

What is the best time to visit Canada?

While Canada can be visited any time during the year, the best time depends on your budget and for what you are going. While September and October offer pleasant weather & reasonable holiday expenses, the wintertime is the best for experiencing the beauty of the snow. However, if you wish to have a value-for-money holiday, the springtime, i.e. mid-March to mid-May is the best time to plan your vacation.

What is Canada known for?

The country of Canada is mostly known for maple syrup. The country is the producer of 80% of maple syrup in the world.

What is famous in Canada to buy?

Apart from the maple syrup, there are several things in Canada that you should consider buying. Some of them are 1. Canadian Ice Wine 2. Canadian sports gear 3. Woolen blanket 4. Canadian Smoked Salmon 5. Canadian sports gear

What are 3 things Canada is famous for?

Canada is an awesome place for enjoying the scenic views, winter sports like Ice Hockey, etc., and maple syrup.

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The Best 25 Things to Do in Canada

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Whether you’re planning on visiting for outdoor adventure in the form of hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, or skiing—or you want to bask in the sun on a scenic stretch of sand, or maybe pitch a tent in a remote provincial park—there is no shortage of things to do across Canada or worthwhile places to go . It’s a welcoming country that makes it possible to carve out whatever vacation experience you’re dreaming of. For foodies, history buffs, families, couples or groups of friends, Canada has so much to offer, no one will feel left out. For those beginning the planning process or simply looking for travel inspiration, here are 25 of the best things to do in Canada.

See the Northern Lights in Yukon

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There is a good reason that so many people have the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) on their bucket lists. That’s because they are a sight that is almost unreal, taking over the sky in brilliant vistas of shifting colors. Visible from mid-August to mid-April (best viewed between 10 p.m. and 3 a.m.), the Yukon is one of the best places in Canada to get a glimpse. Your best option for optimal viewing is to drive outside the capital city of Whitehorse, or you can book a guided tour with a local company. Alternatively, another great spot to view the natural phenomenon is from the Takahini Hot Springs, not far from downtown Whitehorse, for a relaxing soak while you catch the light show. Check the latest Northern Lights forecast here .

Take a Stroll in Stanley Park

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Vancouver's first and largest urban park is so much more than a simple green space. The hub of activity is bustling year-round and offers something to see and do for just about anyone. Get your bearings with a walk around the Seawall, Stanley Park's most famous feature, with its impressive 5.5-mile paved route that loops around the park. Visitors can also experience more than 16 miles of trails, beautiful beaches, local wildlife, restaurants, and natural, cultural, and historical landmarks. You’ll also find a waterpark and picnic areas here to keep you busy.

Soak Stress Away at Banff Upper Hot Springs

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If the thought of slowly lowering yourself into a steaming pool of natural mineral water surrounded by epic mountain views sounds like something worth doing, it’s well worth putting Banff Upper Hot Springs on your must-visit list. Open year-round (even in the winter), Banff Upper Hot Springs is the highest operating hot spring in Canada. Located near the top of Sulphur Mountain, a soak in the thermal pools is especially soothing after a day of hiking or skiing in Banff or surrounding areas. Or visit in the early morning before it gets busy later in the day.

Bike the Confederation Trail

Love exploring on two wheels? You won’t be disappointed with a ride along the Confederation Trail. The 270-mile walking, cycling and snowmobile trail (a former train line) that runs from one end of Prince Edward Island to the other. Set out on your own, or book a ride with several local guides and tours. Expect beautiful scenery as you ride as well as the chance to stop off at a number of waterfront villages that are worth stopping in for a local meal or simply to soak up some local PEI life.

Snap Some Photos of Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

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There may be some 160 lighthouses in Nova Scotia, but Peggy's Cove Lighthouse (also known as Peggy's Point Lighthouse) is one of the most well-known in the province and one of the most photographed in Canada. Located in the fishing village of Peggy’s Cove along the South Shore, Peggy’s Point Lighthouse was built in 1915 and remains a steadfast beacon, painted in red and white and overlooking a large bay. Once you’ve taken the requisite photos, make a stop in the nearby fishing village for some fresh maritime lobster.

Take a Walk on the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

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The Halifax waterfront is home to one of the world’s longest downtown boardwalks, the nearly 2.5-mile Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk. And this walk isn’t just to soak up some seaside scenery. Here you will also find many cultural and historical experiences like the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. You can also stop by the Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market (the longest continuously operating farmers' market in North America) for something to eat along the way. Or just meander in and out of the many little shops and boutiques along the way. End you day on the water with a meal at one of the boardwalk’s restaurants or pubs.

Traverse the Capilano Suspension Bridge

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Envelop yourself in nature and get a bird’s eye view of the forest canopy with a walk along the Capilano Suspension Bridge . Take a deep breath as you make your way across the 459-foot expanse, which hangs nearly 230 feet above the rushing Capilano River. If that wasn’t enough, there are a few more adventures to check out once over the bridge. First up, the Cliffwalk—a series of walkways above the rainforest, and then there’s the Treetops Adventure, consisting of seven bridges suspended by 250-year-old Douglas firs, 100 feet above the forest floor

Experience the Calgary Stampede

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Calgary is known for many things, and there are more than enough reasons to visit , but for 10 days in July, the Calgary Stampede takes over the city and attracts more than a million visitors from around the world. It’s a massive celebration that brings the city together. The Calgary Stampede Parade kicks things off, and then it's nonstop action. Visitors can watch cowboys and cowgirls compete at the Stampede Rodeo, enjoy live music nightly, fuel up with free pancake breakfasts, go on rides and play games at the Calgary Stampede Midway, and much more.

Float the Day Away at Little Manitou Lake

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Can’t get to the Dead Sea? Don’t worry—there’s a comparable experience in Canada. Located in Saskatchewan, Little Manitou Lake is Canada’s answer to the Dead Sea as it is high in both salt and minerals, making it the perfect place to stop by for a float—and float you will (no effort required). Many people plan a weekend or overnight trip, and there are several hotels and campsites near the water.

Visit the Hopewell Rocks

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The shores of the Bay of Fundy are where you will find the famous Hopewell Rocks. These are unique rock formations created by tidal erosion over thousands of years. Also known as the ‘Flowerpot Rocks,’ the majestic formations also boast vegetation-covered tops, making them look like massive flower pots. The best part is, you can experience Hopewell Rocks both at low and high tide. At low tide, walk among the rocks and look up—way up. While at high tide, kayak among the tops of the rocks for a totally different perspective. There are also two sandy beaches and walking trails to explore.

Camp in Killarney Provincial Park

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There’s nothing quite like pulling your canoe up on the beach, looking around and seeing nothing but nature, and feeling the quiet of the landscape that surrounds you. If you’re looking to get off the grid, the 400-square-mile wilderness of Killarney Provincial Park should fit the bill. Here you will find over 50 crystal-clear lakes amidst the rugged Georgian Bay Coast and the white quartzite ridges of the surrounding La Cloche Mountains. The park offers extensive backcountry canoeing and kayaking experiences wherein you paddle or hike to your campsite or have a car camping experience at George Lake campground, with access to beaches, trails, and canoeing.

Try the EdgeWalk at CN Tower

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Visiting the CN Tower is an iconic Toronto experience, but you can go a few steps further than a typical experience. Depending on your threshold for thrill-seeking, beyond the CN Tower’s LookOut Level or Glass Floor, there’s EdgeWalk. This adventure is the first of its kind in North America. It has participants doing a hands-free walk around the tower's central pod, 116 stories above the ground—truly a bucket-list-worthy experience. 

Check out Wood Buffalo National Park

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Wood Buffalo National Park is Canada’s largest national park (covering a whopping 27,841 square miles) and one of the world's largest. Here you will find the world’s largest beaver dam and one of the world’s largest herds of free-roaming bison. Birders, take note: The park is also where you will find the last remaining natural nesting area for the endangered whooping crane. Explore on foot or by canoe to get a sense of the many natural wonders on offer, of which there are enough to warrant an overnight (or longer) stay.

Explore Old Town Lunenburg

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Take a step back in time with a visit to Old Town Lunenburg, the best surviving planned British colonial town in North America and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Scenic harbor-side streets are lined with shops and restaurants that easily blend with the well-preserved historic homes, so everywhere you look feels a bit like looking at history come to life. Spend some time browsing small art galleries, stopping by a café, or stocking up on one-of-a-kind souvenirs. 

Head Underground via Toronto’s PATH

While there is so much to see and do in Toronto above ground, the city is also home to what Guinness World Records notes as the largest underground shopping complex in the world. PATH is an 18-mile network that runs under the downtown core, stretching from Queens Quay in the south all the way up to the Eaton Centre. This maze of subterranean walkways is filled with shops, restaurants (from food courts to high-end dining), fitness centers, spas, and entertainment making it perfect for getting around on frigid Toronto days.

Explore the East Coast Trail

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Grab your camera (or make sure your smartphone is charged) because you’ll be faced with some impressive scenery along the East Coast Trail. Depending on the amount of exertion you want to expend, you’ll find a wide range of wilderness hiking and walking paths from easy to more advance that take you past towering cliffs, rock arches, fjords, sea stacks, and the Sprout, a wave-driven freshwater geyser. In total there are 338 miles of developed and undeveloped East Coast Trail so finding the perfect route shouldn’t be too difficult. 

Go Back in Time in Old Montreal

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Beautiful architecture? Check. Historic buildings aplenty? Also check. Add to that an ultra-charming, yet laid-back vibe, cute cafes, and markets, and you have a recipe for a multifaceted experience. So, a visit to Old Montreal is a must for anyone visiting the city. Simply meandering the scenic cobblestone streets, taking photos, and people-watching is a worthwhile endeavor on its own, and when you need a rest, you have your pick of bars, restaurants, and pubs.

Eat Your Way Though St. Lawrence Market

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Consider yourself a foodie? Or maybe you’re just feeling hungry. If you happen to be in Toronto, make your way to the city’s largest market —a definite must-do on any trip to Toronto. The market was even voted the best food market in the world by National Geographic. The South Market is home to over 120 specialty food vendors selling everything from fresh produce and baked goods, to prepared foods, dairy, meat, and seafood. It’s worth spending a couple of hours slowly taking in the sights and smells, stocking up on (and sampling) local goods as you go.

Stop by Little Limestone Lake

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You might not think a body of water similar in hue to what you might find in the Caribbean can be seen in Manitoba, but Little Limestone Lake is worth the trip for the colors alone. Located around 275 miles north of Winnipeg, this lake is known as the biggest and best marl lake globally. Marl is a calcium carbonate-rich deposit, and when temperatures are high, it’s formed as calcite and separates out of the water. This process creates crystals that lead to a turquoise hue. When it’s cold, the calcite dissolves, and the water is perfectly clear. Little Limestone Lake can range from soft blue-grey to vibrant aquamarine to sky blue throughout the course of a single day.

Browse the Art Gallery of Ontario

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Whether you consider yourself an art buff or simply enjoy spending time in galleries when you travel, wandering through the light-filled Art Gallery of Ontario , whether the permanent collection or a special exhibition never gets old. The AGO is one of the largest art museums in North America, home to over 90,000 works and collections comprised of Canadian, European, contemporary art, photography, and more. A major expansion designed by Frank Gehry in 2008 cemented the AGO as a must-visit cultural institution. 

Spend Time in Prince Edward Island National Park

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Whether you’re an active traveler looking for some fun things to do outdoors, or you simply want to hit the beach, Prince Edward Island National Park is a real Canadian treasure. Located on the north shore of the province, the park includes many scenic white and red sand beaches ideal for swimming—or explore the park by kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard. Visitors can also enjoy over 30 miles of trails for hiking. Keep your eye out for one of the park’s iconic “Red Chairs,” spaced at various vistas throughout the park

Visit Pond Inlet

Located in Nunavut, Pond Inlet is an ideal place to visit if you’ve ever wanted to catch a glimpse of the “unicorn of the sea,” otherwise known as the narwhal – those curious creatures featuring long tusks protruding from their heads. Large pods of narwhals frequent the area so there are many chances to spot some. But that’s not all – Pond Inlet is also situated near scenic fiords, glaciers and icebergs and surrounded by mountain ranges. You may also have the chance to see beluga and orca whales, ringed and harp seals, caribou, arctic foxes and wolves.

Do a Winery Tour in Niagara-on-the-Lake

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Wine lovers will want to think about planning a vacation to Niagara-on-the-Lake. Known by the locals as NOTL, this picturesque destination is packed with old town charm and just happens to be surrounded by wineries. Over 80 vineyards call the Niagara region home, and of those, nearly 30 can be found in the Niagara-on-the-Lake area. The area is also world-renowned for its icewine, wine made from grapes frozen on the vine. Whether you book a guided tour or rent a bike to ride between tasting rooms, there are plenty of options for enjoying a tasting (or three). 

Shop the Iconic Jean-Talon Market

Getty Images/Guylain Doyle

In the heart of Montreal’s Little Italy neighborhood, you will find one of North America’s largest open-air public markets . Even if you’re not planning on buying anything, just browsing the many stalls piled high with local goods is a must-do in the city. If you do want to pack your basket with goodies, you’ll find everything from fresh produce and flowers to cheese, meats, specialty food items, and much more.

Stay on Fogo Island

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Remote Fogo Island is the largest island of Newfoundland and Labrador’s coast, and it really is a sight to behold. One of the main draws here is the architecturally stunning Fogo Island Inn , a luxury hotel situated next to the sea along the rocky coastline and feeling like something out of a very stylish storybook. The hotel itself is perched on stilts, and all 29 rooms come with floor-to-ceiling views of the sea and sky. There are rooftop hot tubs and woodfired saunas, and a library containing works about Newfoundland. When you’re not sitting in awe of the views from your room, take an island tour with a local or explore the many local artist studios. 

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Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Canada

Canada is the second-largest country in the world with a vast array of natural wonders, so any attempt to make a list of places in a country known for its sheer beauty will always be a tough ask!

Everyone will have their ideas, but from my time exploring this extraordinarily scenic country, here are my favorites…

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1. Yellowknife/Northwest Territories

When you’re done walking around the oldest city in North America and ticked the polar bears off your wildlife list, I recommend properly heading up north in search of the Aurora Borealis, aka the Northern Lights.

As a natural phenomenon, you’re never guaranteed to see them, but Yellowknife in the Northwest Territories is a great place to try. Just remember to wrap up warm! To get one of the greatest glimpses into such a vast, sprawling country, how about going coast to coast, from Atlantic to Pacific?

Taking a drive across the Trans-Canada Highway or a ride on the Canadian (a 1950s train journeying from Toronto to Vancouver over 3-4 days) is something that few people experience in a single trip. Still, in my opinion, anyone who does so will remember for the rest of their lives! 

• Address:  Northwest Territories, Canada
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: from early Sept to mid-April (to see the Nothern Lights).

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a tour of the auroral oval to see the magnificent and breathtaking Northern Lights.
• Exploring the Old Town on Great Slave Lake’s waterfront where I found an array of top restaurants and art shops.
• Hiking along the Ingraham Trail to see Hidden Lake Territorial Park which featured Cameron Falls.

2. The Rockies

While the entire Rockies also stretch through the USA, when it comes to jaw-dropping scenery, its northern neighbor comes up trumps, whether for hiking in the summer or skiing in the winter.

Comprising 5 National Parks ( Banff , Glacier, Jasper, Kootenay, and Yoho), this area should be near the top of any bucket list! 

The Rocky Mountaineer is the train of choice for many honeymooners, and it’s easy to see why – glass-topped carriages giving superlative views onto glaciers, towering mountain peaks, waterfalls, canyons, and lakes so blue you’ll think your eyes have been Photoshopped.

• Location:   Banff National Park, The Canadian Rockies.
• Best time to visit: July to August

My highlights…

• Admiring the stunning views of the surrounding landscape by taking a ride up the Banff Gondola.
• Visiting the beautiful Moraine Lake, famous for being on the back of the Canadian dollar bill.
• Take a dip in the warm waters of the hot springs filled with a soothing atmosphere.

3. Vancouver Island, Vancouver and the Johnstone Strait

After visiting Vancouver , I decided it’s up there with some of the best cities in the world. I loved how easy on the eye it was, the cool and cosmopolitan vibe, its incredible array of bars, restaurants, cafes and museums, the friendly locals and the striking skylines! 

Next I explored the coast and surfers love the wild, epic waves here (though with a nickname of “Graveyard of the Pacific” the west coast should be approached with caution), and animal lovers come to spot the beautiful orcas in the waters of the Johnstone Strait. 

Vancouver Island is another must-see in Canada. It is a famously gorgeous and tranquil spot with pristine scenery and pockets of quirky communities.

If you prefer something more sedate to all that excitement, I would recommend relaxing with something quintessentially British (well, you are in British Columbia, after all!) – afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel, Victoria, which is listed as one of the most ‘iconic hotels in the world.’ 

My must-do highlights…

• Going kayaking to explore the picturesque lake waters and wildlife.
• Wandering through The Butchart Garden’ s vibrant 55 acres of lush flowers and greenery.
• Hiking the Wild Pacific Trail which took me around the rugged cliffs and coast of the island.
• Photographing the iconic Capilano Suspension Bridge. 
• Going Whale watching –  I think this is a must-do from May to October!

4. Lake Louise

Beautiful Lake Louise is located in the Rockies but deserves a special mention! 

You’ve seen the photos – with water almost impossibly turquoise (the result of minerals in the rock that flow into the lake after glacial erosion) – now it’s time to see the lake for yourself and get a picture of yourself.

I would say this isn’t the place to get away from it all – and certainly won’t be able to get away from thousands of other tourists – but some places are popular for good reason, and in my opinion, deserve to be visited anyway! 

• Location: Banff National Park
• Map Location
• Best time to visit: Summer

My favourite highlights…

• Capturing an Insta-worthy shot with the famous electric blue lake as your backdrop.
• Renting a canoe and spend time on the gorgeous waters. 
• Discovering the perfect bird’s eye view overlooking the lake via a hiking trail.

5. Churchill, Manitoba

To fans of seeing animals in their natural environment, this place is no longer a secret – it’s marketed as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World”, and it more than lives up to its name (I saw about 40 of them in one day on a recent trip – although you might want to check your traveler’s insurance before you go it can be a hairy experience!).

While it is already the premier destination for seeing these beautiful white bears, not everyone realises that it is also a fantastic place to see Beluga whales in late summer.

Add to that the opportunity, if you’re lucky, to see the Northern Lights in the deep of winter and to see colorful wildflowers in June-August, and it means this tiny town of around 1000 people has something to offer year-round. 

• Address: Manitoba, Canada
• Map Location  
• Best time to visit: January, February and March (for Northern Light watching).
• Seeing the Northern Lights, this is a great location to try and spot them! 
• Stopping by the Churchill Northern Studies Center to learn about the history and ecology of the area.
• Wandering around the interesting Prince of Wales Fort, which is only accessible by boat.

6. On the trail of the Titanic in Nova Scotia

Despite visiting during a snowy blizzard, I still enjoyed my time in Halifax. Partly because I always wanted to say I’d been to Nova Scotia, but also because there is a wealth of history there.

Due to blanket snow, I couldn’t visit the “Titanic Graveyard”, as many of the fateful boat’s passengers are buried there. Pier 21, Canada’s equivalent to the USA’s Ellis Island, was the “Gateway to Canada” for thousands of immigrants from ocean liners from 1928-1971 and is now one of Canada’s most important museums.

Halifax also makes a good jumping-off point for drives further afield to Prince Edward Island or Cape Breton.

• Location: Eastern seaboard of North America
• Best time to visit: May and September
• Taking a half-day guided tour to learn about the historic tragedy.
• Exploring the Pier 21 museum to delve into the past of this interesting Canadian location.

7. Niagara Falls

Angel Falls may be higher, and Victoria Falls may be wider, but Niagara still holds the crown of the world’s most famous waterfall.

It provided the backdrop for one of Marilyn Monroe’s better films, has hosted countless weddings and honeymooning couples, and daredevils from across the globe have come to test themselves against the might of mother nature, either by crossing on a tightrope or throwing themselves over the edge in a barrel.

Thankfully, there are safer ways to enjoy the falls, namely the Maid of the Mist boat (tip: it’s worth letting people past you so that you’re at the front of the queue if you want to make sure you’re first into one of the wettest spots on the boat).

Everyone has their own opinion of which side is better (Canadian vs American) but as you may only visit once I’d suggest seeing it from both!

• Location: Between Ontario, Canada and New York State, New York
• Best time to visit: mid-May to mid-September

My highlights… 

• Soaring through the sky on the funWildPlay Zipline, which hits speeds of 40mph.
• Getting a unique view of the majestic falls by riding the Skylon Tower 233 meters up high.
• Checking out the adrenaline-pumping and award-winning Fallsview Indoor Waterpark !

Even the most committed nature seekers will find themselves in a city at some point, so embrace all that urban life offers in Toronto. To me, it seemed like a smaller, cleaner, tidier version of New York.

The views from the CN Tower (which held the title of the world’s tallest freestanding structure for over 30 years) are as incredible as you’d imagine, while the Royal Ontario Museum is the best single summary of Canada’s cultural life and history.

For something unusual, I would suggest checking out the Cineforum (where local eccentric Reg Hartt will essentially show you short films and animations in his living room and maybe talk about LSD…), while the historic Distillery District is alive with cafes, art galleries, and idiosyncratic shops.

And finally, I would recommend walking up to the Gothic Revival stately home Casa Loma – in equal parts fascinating, quirky, and tragic! 

• Location: Ontario
• Best time to Visit: late April through May and September through October
• Wandering around Toronto Island Park, which featured beautiful trails, small beaches and a few amusement rides.
• Watching a baseball game at the Rogers Center is a must-do activity.
• Purchasing some fresh local produce from St Lawrence Market, a city landmark.

9. The Bay of Fundy

Almost as world-famous as some other places on this list and easily as spectacular, kayakers and canoers come from all over the world to paddle through the jaw-dropping scenery and the planet’s highest tides.

The unique geography of the beautiful area also means that whale watching here is an essential experience – you might see humpback, fin, right whales, or even blue whales.

• Location: New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.
• Best times to visit: Spring, Summer and Fall
• Admiring the spectacular Hopewell Rocks with their unusual formations created by the Fundy tides.
• Watching the force of the tides in action from the observation deck, which has a clear glass-panelled floor.
• Exploring the lush greenery and beautiful waterfalls at the National Park.

10. Quebec City

In the French-speaking province of Quebec, Montreal is a fantastic city for many reasons little Quebec City may be a victim of its success in terms of popularity in my opinion, it’s still worth visiting!

The world’s most photographed hotel is in the center of town, North America’s only Ice Hotel is around 30 minutes away, and around every corner is a glimpse into another quaint side street or romantic cafe, making this 400-year-old city wonderful to explore on foot.

• Location: Québec province
• Best time to visit : June to September and December to February.
• Walking across the incredible suspending bridge above Parc de la Chute-Montmorency.
• Visiting the famous Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica-Cathedral which is filled with breathtaking architecture.
• Having fun at fantastic Village Vacances Valcartier/Ice Hotel, which boasts the largest theme park in Canada.

11. Old Montreal

Was I in Montreal or Marseilles? Aside from various billboards advertising poutine, I was hard-pressed to tell the difference. Take a walk down these beautiful boulevards, and you’ll be presented with quaint corner cafés, boutiques with pretty windows, impressive columns, and churches, all of which speak strongly of Canada’s colonial past.

You’ll be able to explore the numerous pretty cobbled streets, feel all cultural, and shop ‘til you drop simultaneously.

Check out the Basilica of Notre Dame before stopping for a cappuccino and taking the weight off your weary feet whilst you people-watch and try to get your head around it not being actual France.

• Best times to visit : between April and May and September to November
• Visiting the Notre Dame Basilica, the oldest Catholic parish church in the city, which is filled with spectacular interiors.
• Riding on the La Grande Roue de Montreal for the best views overlooking the city.
• Checking out the exhibitions in the Science Center.

12. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, British Columbia

Do you like heights? Enjoy sweaty palms? Relish dreams of falling? If so, then we’ve got what you need! The Capilano Suspension Bridge is one of Vancouver’s most visited attractions.

This 140-meter bridge spans the Capilano River (obviously) and sits over 300 feet above a verdant green valley. Hold your breath and strut across it. Fear or no fear, you’ll be glad you did.

The park sits within a beautiful scenic park with snowy peaks and pointing pines. Visit at the right time, and you’ll be in for a treat. It doesn’t even have to be daylight.

The park is bedecked with lights on many trees, bridges, and caverns. Have you ever seen Avatar? You’ll feel like you are in a James Cameron movie; don’t turn blue with the cold.

• Address: 3735 Capilano Rd, North Vancouver, BC V7R 4J1
• Best time to visit: It’s open every day except Christmas.
• Admiring the best views overlooking the rainforest by walking across the adrenaline-pumping bridge.
• Discovering the Treetops Adventure , it had amazing views!
• Walking the thrilling Cliffwalk located on the edge of the granite stone.

13. Whistler

Home to one of the largest ski resorts in North America , Whistler is among the top tourist places in Canada for skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and ski jumping. However, as a summer person, you can also explore mountain biking and hiking, as the hot weather is perfect.

Whistler receives over two million people per year, with its beautiful scenery and breathtaking panoramic views this city was also a host of the 2010 Winter Olympics. If you are having a long vacation, Vancouver is also a great destination, as it’s only under 2 hours from Whistler by car.

• Location: north of Vancouver, British Columbia
• Best time to visit: December to February for great skiing conditions. 
• Snowboarding! 
• Soaring through the forest on a zipline, the views were incredible!
• Shopping in the village, there is a great range of independent boutiques.

14. Nahanni National Park Reserve

If you’re a regular reader, you’ll know that we love a UNESCO World Heritage site! If you say to most people ‘Canada’, this is what they think of. Wild turquoise rivers crash through steep-sided granite valleys. Pine trees dot grassy plains.

And if you visit in the summer, you’ll be presented with an ocean of color and wildflowers. This country is truly wild and beautiful and remains pretty much untouched. Please remember, leave only footprints and take only memories!

• Location: Fort Smith, Unorganized, NT
• Best time to visit: between June and August
• Paddling through the Nahanni River on a kayak which passed incredible gorges, waterfalls and natural springs!
• Climbing up the granite rocks for wonderful views of the landscape.
• Take a flightseeing excursion!

15. Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

Lunenburg is a proper enigma. You’d get various answers if you plonked someone in the middle of town and asked them where they were without telling them anything else. The bright-colored building, of which over 70% are original, has a slight Scandinavian feel.

Which is weird as it was originally settled by the British over 400 years ago. Beautiful Lunenburg is one of only two towns that are designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites. If you visit, you’ll be able to indulge in practically every sense. It is jam-packed with artisanal and often very local fayre.

Restaurants, breweries, and even the odd splash of local rum can be abundant. Turn your saturation filter to max (on the camera, not the rum) and make your friends jealous with photos of the pretty colored buildings! 

• Location: Nova Scotia
• Dining at the fabulous Salt Shaker Deli and Inn which had great harbour views.
• Taking a trip on the world-renowned racing ship champion, Bluenose II, who was undefeated for 17 years.
• Exploring the charming Old Town Heritage District filled with colourful buildings and shops.

16. Cape Spear

Want to go to Canada? Want to be the first person in an entire continent to see the sunrise? If you answered ‘yes’ to both questions, you must visit the stunning Cape Spear. It is the most easterly point in the entire continent of North America.

If you set off swimming from the cape, the next place you’d reach would be The British Isles. Pack a flask of something hot (or maybe cold and sparkly) and head off on a walk.

Aside from an amazing (if chilly) sunrise over the Atlantic, you can check out the Cape Spear lighthouse, which sits atop a rocky promontory. It is quite remote but well worth the trip! 

• Location: St. John’s, NL A1C 5H2
• Best time to visit: June to October
• Going for a scenic hike along the Blackhead Path trail which offered brilliant views across the waters.
• Climbing up the steps at the historic lighthouse and hearing the stories of the families who lived there for generations before.
• Wandering along the Pretty Harbor fishing village located close to Cape Spear.

17. Lake Magog

I have two words for you. Rugged, Beauty. And you’ll want to stay for more than a day to take it all in truly, and you won’t want to be in a hurry.

You’ll need to be made of strong stuff, especially if you embark on the 4-mile hike to Sunburst Peak, or you can wander down to the lake to cool your feet down.

It is glacially fed and, as a result, is crystal clear all year round. Breathe in a deep lungful of air about the freshest you will get on the planet and admire sweeping and wild vistas.

• Location: Estrie region of Quebec.
• Best time to visit: July to September
• Soaking up the sun rays at the beach along the lake’s shores.
• Discovering the enchanting scenery across Marais de la Rivière aux Cerises Park.
• Going kayaking across the crystal-clear waters to grab some Insta-worthy shots.

18. Abraham Lake

Want to see what human endeavor and nature look like when they interact. Check out the very pretty Abraham Lake. Why do I say this? You’d be entirely forgiven for thinking that Abraham Lake is a natural phenomenon. (Spoiler: it isn’t).

The lake was man-made after the Saskatchewan River was dammed in 1972. If you’d visited in the 60s, you’d probably have stood in a grassy valley. But the human endeavor isn’t the best bit about Lake Abraham. Something is going on under the surface, literally.

The lake is beautiful all year round, with milky blue glacial water. Here’s our advice. Visit in winter, bring your camera. Due to deposits of various flora on the lake bed, huge methane gas bubbles are released. These are then trapped at various layers under the frozen surface.

You’ll be presented with a cathedral of frozen wonder as these bubbles make miles of frozen subsurface columns. All are observed from your own private and unique viewing window.

Your best bet to avoid mishaps is to hire a guided tour. Walking on frozen lakes is cool but dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing.

• Location: Western Alberta
• Best time to visit: early January to mid-February (to see the ice bubbles)
• Taking a scenic drive around the lake to discover the best views at the several lookout points located around the area.
• Booking a guided rock climb for a memorable experience.
• Packing a picnic and stopping off for a short break whilst admiring the picturesque scenery.

19. Glacier National Park

Okay this is officially mostly in Montana USA. Still, I’ve included it. It’s located right on the border of Canada and is an incredible place to visit if you’re exploring either country. Especially if you like hiking, you’ll love the 700 miles of gorgeous trails.

Visit in the autumn and you’ll be treated to hundreds of square miles of deciduous trees that are ablaze with color, like strips of burnt amber gold. It will be heaven for you if you are an ‘outdoorsy’ type.

Aside from walking there is the option to go kayaking climbing, and cycling. You name it. You can keep the accommodation costs cheap, provided you have a tent, as Glacier National Park is the ideal spot to return to nature.

• Location: Border of Canada and Montana
• Hiking the Hidden Lake Overlook Trail and discovering magnificent viewpoints of the pretty lake.
• Going back in time with a 1930’s vintage Red Bus Tour which took me to the most popular landmarks.

20. Yoho National Park

Stand on top of steep-sided gullies and breathe it in! The stunning views here are to die for. Whether you want to stop for the day and have a picnic or spend a few weeks walking to your heart’s content, the Yoho National Park has something for you.

Driving through the beautiful park alone is worth it, but ideally, you’ll want to stay and appreciate all it offers. This is the land that time forgot; if you take a guided tour, you’ll be able to traverse tracks cutting through scree-sided valleys and see if you can find a fossil or two.

It’s literally impossible not to be impressed by its size and scale here. Every direction you turn will take your breath away, I promise! 

• Location: Field, BC V0A 1G0
• Exploring the stunning and vibrant Emerald Lake which is surrounded by lush forests.
• Visiting the Natural Bridge and getting a great Insta-worthy shot.
• Hiking to the impressive Wapta Falls, the biggest waterfall in the park which stands at 18-meters high.

16 thoughts on “Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Canada”

Canada really is a wonderland! I feel like it is so underrated and then when people get a taste of it, they realize just how special it is. There’s still so much more I want to discover that is on your list! 🙂

I really like to share your all these images which look very fantastic and cool. I also enjoyed my self while I was visiting this kind of places. In my point of view all these places are the best ways to have great fun in Canada. I hope you will have a joyful time there.

This is a very good post Lee. All the places and photos are so beautiful to see and everyone wants to go there once. After watching these makes me want to go to Canada again and Brought back my memories when i go there.

You are so pretty and i would love to text you to see a play date for my kids with your kids if you have any!!!

Wow! this is a nice post for a traveler to know about canada’s beautiful places. I hope this post will be very helpful for every traveler.After saw this photos I am charmed and My mind wants to go away towards canada right now.

Great post Lee! Canada is truly a beautiful place even in the winter (despite the freezing temperatures!)

Nice places, I visited Niagara Falls only last year and it was most memorable trip for us. Falling views of Horseshoe waterfalls from table rock and Maid of the Mist boat ride was great experience for us.

Gorgeous photos, makes me want to go to Canada!

Your photos are amazing. I too love Canada yet have seen so little of it. I love going to Toronto, a big city with a great vibe and wonderful to explore.

Niagara Falls is also fabulous. I’ve seen it from both sides. The US side does have some fantastic views but I still think the Canadian side is better.

Great list and wonderful pictures! As a Canadian, I would definitely add Vancouver on the list too (although I suppose it’s sort of part of the rockies). It’s as cool, clean and urban as Toronto, but right on the ocean and surrounded by mountains. What more could you ask for?

Thanks for your comment Jessica!

Vancouver Island is an awesome place to live, I just want to go back…Vancouver is nice but too pricy, maybe that´s why is not in the list-!

Nice guide Lee sounds like you really enjoyed your time there.

I’ve always wanted to go to Canada, great guide to its beautiful places. I love the images you have chosen especially the first and the last.

Great post Lee. Brought back memories of a great holiday,

Thanks Pixie!

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Home » Travel Guides » Canada » 25 Best Things to Do in Canada

25 Best Things to Do in Canada

With a geography as diverse as its history and people, Canada is an exciting country to explore. Few places on earth have natural wonders as awe inspiring as Canada. From coast to coast, each province offers its share of unique wonders. Whether it is the pristine beauty of a northern lake, the rugged expanse of the Rocky Mountains, the rolling grasslands of the prairies, the iconic red soils and lighthouses of the Maritimes, or the rich history and architecture, Canada inspires awe and offers an endless list of possibilities. Here are the top 25 things to do and places to visit in Canada :

1. Banff National Park – Alberta

Established in 1883 and a World Heritage Site, Banff is renowned for the beauty of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, the lush unspoiled landscapes, and unique thermal hot springs. With over one thousand miles of hikeable trails in the summer, pristine lakes to canoe or kayak, and superb skiing in the winter, Banff is truly an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. The downtown area offers quaint shops and beautiful hotels.

2. Cypress Hills – Saskatchewan/Alberta

Situated on the Saskatchewan and Alberta border, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park offers a mix of grassland, wetlands, and forests. Any avid nature lover will appreciate the gently rolling hills, beautiful lakes, and the wide diversity of plants and animal life. Home to historic Fort Walsh, and with zip lines and real functioning ranches for horseback rides, Cypress is a diverse destination sure to fulfill numerous interests.

3. Wolf Lake – Yukon

Past Whitehorse, over mountain ranges and river valleys, lies one of Canada’s best kept secrets: the untouched wilderness that is Wolf Lake. One of the few lakes the rare and beautiful Arctic Grayling calls home, Wolf Lake is a fisherman’s paradise. A rare gem, wildlife and natural photography opportunities abound.

4. Fernie – British Columbia

For over one hundred years the beauty of Fernie has been explored and admired. With a colourful history and a scenic downtown area to explore, Fernie offers something for the naturalist and historical enthusiast alike. A skiers’ dream since the 1940’s, Fernie is now also a popular destination for snowmobilers.

5. Drumheller – Alberta

Known as the dinosaur capital of the world, Drumheller is located in the heart of the Canadian Badlands.  In the late 1800’s, while searching for coal amidst the rolling coulees near the Red Deer River, a dinosaur skull was found. Visit the Royal Tyrrell museum to see a wide variety of dinosaur and fossil exhibits, or visit the Atlas Coal Mine, a National Historic Site.

6. Fraser River – British Columbia

Spanning almost 1400km, the Fraser River is the longest river in British Columbia. Home to the world’s largest salmon migration and most productive salmon fishery in the world, the River has been a focal point for industry to grow. Sturgeon fishing in the Fraser River is renowned worldwide.

7. Old Quebec – Quebec

Don’t have the budget for Europe? Take a trip back in time to Old Quebec. Literally like venturing into another country, Old Quebec is the only walled city north of Mexico, the oldest in North America. With over half a millennium of history, the architecture in Old Quebec is some of the oldest, and most astounding in Canada. Enjoy the mix of heritage, culture, architecture and art. Home to cobblestone streets and the iconic Château Frontenac, as well as the world famous winter carnival, Quebec City is sure to fascinate and delight visitors of all ages.

8. Anne of Green Gables- Prince Edward Island

Known as the birthplace of Confederation in 1864, PEI has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Visit the gabled house that inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables, in the Prince Edward Island National Park. Don’t miss the site of Montgomery’s Cavendish home, where guided tours are given. When available, enjoy the Anne of Green Gables musical performed live at local Theatres.

9. Niagara Falls

From family fun to a romantic couple’s getaway, Niagara Falls offers it all. No matter the season, the Niagara region offers entertainment for all ages. Known for its captivating falls and incredible sightseeing, the Niagara region also offers a host of other activities including live music and theatre, to museums and cruises, shopping, golfing, and camping.

10. Selkirk

Dubbed the Catfish capital of the world for the abundant catfish found in the Red River, Selkirk boasts a twenty five foot fiberglass catfish sculpture. Close to the banks of Lake Winnipeg and the Red River, Selkirk is a beautiful outdoor destination. For history buffs, Selkirk is also home to the Lower Fort Garry National Historic Site and the Manitoba Marine Museum.

11. Butchart Gardens- British Columbia

Once an abandoned quarry, Butchart gardens has grown into an internationally recognized destination. Located in Victoria and designated a National Historic Site in 2004, over a million bedding plants bloom year round. The garden often features holiday shows and special events, plus it’s dog friendly.

12. The Forks – Manitoba

With over 6000 years of history as a meeting place, The Forks is Winnipeg’s most popular tourist destination. Nestled in the heart of downtown, The Forks offers unique attractions, a plethora of dining choices, incredible shopping, and live entertainment all year round.

13. Uranium City – Saskatchewan

Located on the northern shore of Lake Athabasca, Uranium city, now considered a ghost-town, was once a thriving community. When the Uranium mine closed in the early 1980’s the economy collapsed and residents were forced to leave, abandoning the town and its structures. With a unique history, unparalleled natural beauty and incredible topography, Uranium City holds an attraction all its own.

14. Whistler Blackcomb – British Columbia

Internationally regarded as one of the top four season resorts in North America, Whistler is any winter sports enthusiast’s dream. Featured as the alpine venue for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games, Whistler is also a great vacation destination for the whole family. Unique boutiques, award winning restaurants, an active nightlife, and beautiful hotels complete the quant alpine village.

15. Toronto – Ontario

Toronto is a one of a kind experience. The massive city offers every kind of attraction one could think of. Museums, galleries, music, dining, arts, theater, sports, shopping; Toronto has it all. Visit the Hockey Hall of Fame or the CN Tower. Hunt down some quaint antique and thrift stores before taking in live theater and finish with a fantastic dinner. For those that have never experienced riding the subway before, it’s a must try experience.

16. Notre Dame Basilica Cathedral – Quebec

A wonder of architecture, Notre Dame was the first cathedral built in North America. Located on the same site since 1647, the Cathedral has been burnt to the ground , rebuilt, and undergone many changes, often led by renowned artists and architects. Recognized as a World Heritage Site, the Cathedral sits in Old Montreal.

17. Parliament of Canada – Ontario

One of Canada’s most beautiful architectural features, the Parliament of Canada building is a must see. Located in Ottawa, Canada’s capital city, the building features breathtaking architecture, sculpture, and art. During the day take a guided tour or explore on your own. Be sure to experience the wonder of the Parliament illuminated at night.

18. Charlevoix – Quebec

Take an enchanting train ride or drive through the beautiful landscape of Quebec to reach the small town of Charlevoix. With activities year round including whale watching, cruises, fishing, hiking, dogsledding, and skiing, Charlevoix is a perfect getaway for couples, singles, or families. The town also features quant bed and breakfasts as well as the stunning Fairmont Le Manoir Richeliu hotel.

19. Dawson City – Yukon

Located on the banks of the Yukon River, Dawson City is a vibrant community, best known for its history of gold mining. Erected during the famous Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1800’s, many of the current buildings in Dawson City still resemble a frontier gold town. Take in Dawson’s unique culture, arts, and museums, while enjoying the pristine natural beauty of Canada’s North.

20. Batoche National Historic Site- Saskatchewan

A visit to the Batoche National Historic site is a journey back in time to the last battle Northwest Resistance of 1885. See and touch the bullet holes which still remain in the rectory wall of the beautiful white church. The natural beauty of the rolling parkland is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and canoeing.

21. Reindeer Lake

Located in the remote wilderness of Northern Saskatchewan, Reindeer Lake is known for its world class fishing. Trophy size northern pike, walleye, and lake trout are not uncommon. Over six miles wide, the spectacular scenery is a key aspect of the unspoiled north. Deep Bay in Reindeer Lake is 13km wide and over 700 feet deep due a meteorite strike. According to local legend, it may also be home to a river monster.

22. Flin Flon – Manitoba

One of only two border communities in Canada, Flin Flon is located north of the 55th parallel of latitude. The country changes from the grassland of the prairies to rugged, forested terrain, rich in mineral deposits like zinc, copper, silver and gold. The Flin Flon Station Museum exhibits many tools and mining samples and provides information on the community’s unique history. One of Canada’s richest mining communities, and home to one of the largest smelters in Canada, Flin Flon also features a surrounding area rich in natural beauty. Campgrounds, sandy beaches and look out towers dot the surrounding cottage country.

23. Sable Island – Nova Scotia

Isolated and remove, Sable Island is only accessible by plane or boat. Now protected by Parks Canada, anyone wishing to visit must obtain permission. Located roughly 300km from the Halifax coast, the sandy island is one of Canada’s furthest offshore islands, and is home to hundreds of wild horses. With a history spanning more than four hundred years, Sable Island has come to be called “The Graveyard of the Atlantic,” as more than 350 shipwrecks have been recorded.

24. Cavendish Beach – Prince Edward Island

The iconic red sands of Prince Edward Island are on full display at Cavendish Beach. Marvellous rock structures tower from the beach, which touches the cool waters of the Atlantic. Sandy dunes and red sandstone cliffs rise up in the background. In the summer months a variety of water activities and deep sea fishing are offered. Small farming communities surround Cavendish, complete with unique dining and shopping options.

25. Churchill – Manitoba

Known as the polar bear capital of the world, Churchill is located on the shores of Hudson Bay. The subarctic community boasts a large tourist industry, with many people flocking for their chance of spotting a polar bear or a beluga whale. The northern lights can also be a spectacular sight, and bird watching has become a popular attraction.

25 Best Things to Do in Canada:

• Banff National Park – Alberta
• Cypress Hills - Saskatchewan/Alberta
• Wolf Lake - Yukon
• Fernie - British Columbia
• Drumheller - Alberta
• Fraser River - British Columbia
• Old Quebec - Quebec
• Anne of Green Gables- Prince Edward Island
• Niagara Falls
• Butchart Gardens- British Columbia
• The Forks - Manitoba
• Uranium City – Saskatchewan
• Whistler Blackcomb – British Columbia
• Toronto - Ontario
• Notre Dame Basilica Cathedral - Quebec
• Parliament of Canada – Ontario
• Charlevoix - Quebec
• Dawson City - Yukon
• Batoche National Historic Site- Saskatchewan
• Reindeer Lake
• Flin Flon - Manitoba
• Sable Island - Nova Scotia
• Cavendish Beach - Prince Edward Island
• Churchill – Manitoba

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The 12 Best Small Towns in Canada

From coast to coast to coast, these delightful small towns in Canada deliver on adventure, charm, and hospitality.

While Vancouver , Toronto , and Montreal often steal the spotlight, Canada is dotted with its fair share of delightful and laid-back small towns. From charming fishing villages in the east to atmospheric mountain towns in the west, many of these communities are gateways to outdoor adventures. Stay awhile, though, and you'll discover artisan shops, microbreweries, farm-to-table restaurants, and friendly locals to guide the way.

With three coastlines — the Pacific, Atlantic, and Arctic — impressive mountain ranges, and the largest protected boreal forest on the planet, Canada has no shortage of awe-inspiring landscapes. Whether you're considering a scenic road trip or a quick city getaway, here are a few Canadian towns worth exploring.

Golden, British Columbia

Surrounded by six national parks (Banff, Glacier, Jasper, Kootenay, Mount Revelstoke, and Yoho), Golden is an ideal base for exploring the Canadian Rockies. Beyond the obvious draws, it's also home to Canada's highest suspension bridge, the Golden Skybridge , whitewater rafting spots along the Kicking Horse River, a wolf sanctuary, and a burgeoning craft beer and food scene.

Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec

Baie-Saint-Paul ranks among Canada's cultural capitals, thanks to its lively art scene. Case in point: Cirque du Soleil got its start here in the early 1980s. Today, you can still find musicians, painters, and acrobats performing in the streets — not to mention plenty of charming bistros and one of the nation's highest concentrations of art galleries. A little over an hour's drive from Quebec City, this destination is the epitome of French Canadian charm.

Churchill, Manitoba

Known as the polar bear capital of the world, Churchill draws wildlife lovers from far and wide. Located on the shores of Hudson Bay, it's also a stellar spot for beluga whale watching and chasing the northern lights , which are visible up to 300 nights of the year. There are no roads that lead to Churchill — it's only accessible by flight or train, which adds to its remote allure .

Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia

Colorfully painted Victorian homes, artisan studios, and heritage gardens make Mahone Bay one of the most picturesque towns in Atlantic Canada. It's often included as a stop on the popular driving route from Peggy's Cove to Lunenburg, but you could easily spend more than an afternoon here. In addition to visiting the world-famous three churches, head to Amos Pewter to see artists turn molten pewter into handcrafted pieces, bike the Dynamite Trail (bicycles can be rented from Sweet Ride Cycling ), or grab a craft beer with the locals at Saltbox Brewing Co .

Tofino, British Columbia

The coastal town of Tofino on Vancouver Island is treasured among surfers, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts alike — and for good reason. Situated within the traditional territory of the The coastal town of Tofino on Vancouver Island is treasured among surfers, foodies, and outdoor enthusiasts alike — and for good reason. Situated within the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation and surrounded by the UNESCO-recognized Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve, it's an ideal location to immerse yourself in one of British Columbia's most culturally significant swaths of nature. Outdoor adventures here include whale watching, riding waves, hiking, kayaking, biking, and more. And with plenty of accommodations options, from the harborside Tofino Resort + Marina and the beachfront Pacific Sands Beach Resort to rustic coastal campsites, travelers are spoiled for choice in more ways than one.

Elora, Ontario

Though it's just a 90-minute drive from Toronto, Elora feels like a world away from the big city. Historical 19th-century buildings form an idyllic town that's been kept alive by a vibrant community of artists, chefs, and entrepreneurs. While it's easy to spend a day wandering through the charming shops, the star attraction here is the Elora Gorge Conservation Area, a magnet for hikers, swimmers, and anyone adventurous enough to go tubing down the rapids of the Grand River.

Victoria-by-the-Sea, Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island is filled with quaint villages, but Victoria-by-the-Sea is arguably one of the most beautiful. The best way to soak it up is by simply exploring the coast lined with relics of the past, including its famous red-and-white lighthouse. Clam digging and kayaking hybrid tours are a popular daytime draw, while evenings are best spent eating oysters and lobster or catching a play at the historical Victoria Playhouse , PEI's longest-running little theater.

Banff, Alberta

Nestled within Banff National Park , this historical town checks all the boxes for a cool mountain town: friendly locals, postcard views, and après-adventure restaurants and bars like Park Distillery . Whether you're here for a quick hike up Mount Rundle, a full day of skiing, or paddling at one of the many nearby glacial lakes, adventuring is a year-round affair.

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

Famed for its sun-drenched vineyards and charming heritage homes, Niagara-on-the-Lake gives visitors to Niagara Falls a good reason to stay, sip, and savor the countryside. And if the award-winning wineries and restaurants weren't enough, events like the theater-focused Shaw Festival keep the town buzzing with life. Thanks to its well-connected shuttle system, WEGO, and numerous bike rental shops, you don't even need a car to explore all it has to offer.

St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick

A 30-minute drive from the border crossing between Calais, Maine, and St. Stephen, New Brunswick, St. Andrews by-the-Sea is a perfect stop on the way to Canada's iconic Fundy National Park. Cute restaurants like Char and Chowder and The Clam Digger serve up delicious fried clams, burgers, and seafood. For a truly unique experience, drive your car to the historic Ministers Island — only accessible via the sandbar that appears at low tide.

Dawson, Yukon

During the height of the Klondike Gold Rush in 1898, Dawson's population exceeded 30,000; as of 2021, it hovers just over 1,500. Vestiges of those glamorous days remain in the frontier-style buildings, including Canada's oldest gambling hall, and the interactive exhibits at the Dawson City Museum . The midnight sun also guarantees epic nightlife — just ask the thousands who have dared to try the Sourtoe Cocktail (a shot of whiskey served with a mummified human toe floating in it) at the Downtown Hotel .

Trinity, Newfoundland

Beautifully preserved saltbox houses, calligraphed street signs, and a thriving theater tradition make Trinity one of Newfoundland's most storied towns. Watch a blacksmith at work, learn about barrel making, or spot whales while hiking the Skerwink Trail. In the summer, local actors and singers in 1700s garb transport visitors to the past through scenic walking tours during the New Founde Lande Trinity Pageant. Meanwhile, restaurants like Twine Loft at the Artisan Inn use fresh seafood to showcase the town's culinary past and future.

Julia Eskins is a Toronto-based writer and editor who covers travel, design, arts and culture, wellness, and the outdoors. Find her on Instagram and Twitter .

Home | Travel guides | Getaways | Canada Bucket List: 10 Unique Places to Visit in Canada

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• Must Do Canada Bucket List

Canada Bucket List: 10 Unique Places to Visit in Canada

If your life is all about discovery, few places on the planet have more to offer than Canada. You will be amazed by the country’s natural beauty, culture and heritage. And our Canada Bucket List serves you a list of places to visit that will keep you busy for years.

Ready for the Canada bucket list challenge? Here are our top picks for unique places to visit in Canada in 2020.

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park – Alberta 

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is a confluence of natural beauty and human ingenuity, declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2019. The park is spread across the Prairies, and its stone drawings can be traced back to almost 3,000 years ago. Writing-on-Stone is a must-do Canada destination for nature, art and history enthusiasts.

Things to do in Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park 

A highly recommended activity in the park is hiking the Hoodo trail where you’ll be able to appreciate the unusual rock formations (the hoodos) as well as other landscapes including sandstone cliffs and upland prairie grasslands. All of these along the Milk River valley.

The information centre close to the park also offers interpretive sessions where you can learn about the Blackfoot clan, creators of the writing on the stones. The park is also a hub for water activities such as kayaking and canoeing.

When to visit Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park 

Spring and fall are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the hoodoos of Writing-on-Stone. May until August is the best time of year for water activities. Be sure to check the water levels before diving in, as canoeing and kayaking are not recommended when the levels fall below 12 cubic meters/second.

Local tips 

With the summer heat, it can be challenging to explore Writing-on-Stone Park, especially with kids. Be sure to dress appropriately and bring enough water. Additionally, we recommend opting for an evening tours at the interpretive centre to escape the heat.

If you want to see as much rock art as possible, there are rock art tours provided by private tourism companies where they take you to hidden and not-so-easy-to-find art. Writing on stone has the largest amount of rock art on the Great Plains of north America so be prepared for a long tour.

How to get to Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park 

The park is located 44 km east of the town of Milk River. Its airport is also the closest to the park, with regular flights from all major airports in Canada.  

Accommodations near Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park 

A visit to Writing-on-Stone Park offers a unique tryst with the forgotten treasures of the past, and an opportunity to get acquainted with the backcountry terrain. There are cozy houses on the Prairies that are just a short drive away from the park. 

Haida Gwaii – British Columbia

Formerly known as The Charlottes, the Haida Gwaii islands are mesmerizing in their appeal. This UNESCO world heritage site is located in the far western part of Canada and it is formed by the islands of Graham, Moresby and 400 smaller islands – together known as the “Galapagos of Canada” for their rich diversity of flora and fauna.

A visit to the Haida Gwaii islands offer an inside look to the Haida Nation culture and a tropical excursion with year-round surfing opportunities, making it one of the best experiences in Canada. 

Things to do in Haida Gwaii

One of the best experiences in Haida Gwaii is a visit to Gwaii Haanas, a protected nature reserve home to grand forests and endemic wildlife such as black bear, coral reefs and sea life.

Year round temperate climate and an active winter surfing zone, also make Haida Gwaii a great destination for surfing, beach sports and even whale watching. The most popular beach in the area is the North Beach.

The ancient Haida culture is also a popular interest among visitors. Explore the historical sites guided by members of the Haida Nation from April to October. The tours usually include a visit to the remains of their unique longhouses, as well as insights to current Haida people cultural practices.

When to visit Haida Gwaii

Haida Gwaii is one of the best places to visit in Canada during the summer (June to August) because of the warmer weather. However, the warmer climate makes it suitable for a trip all year round. 

How to get to Haida Gwaii

You can get to the Haida Gwaii islands from Price Rupert by either taking a ferry or flying in. Tickets for the ferry sell fast, so we recommend booking in advance. There are also direct flights to the islands from Vancouver.

Although the summer months are a great time to visit Haida Gwaii, the winter offers a much more laid back surfing experience, especially for beginners. 

Accommodations in Haida Gwaii

For better chances of exploring as many islands as possible we recommend basing yourself in the most central community of the area: Queen Chalotte City . From there you’ll find several day trips and tour opportunities to explore other islands.

Moresby and Graham Islands are good accommodation sites to explore the southern part of the islands. While staying at Masset will allow you to easily explore the northern side of Haida Gwaii.

Great Sandhills – Saskatchewan

The Great Sandhills of Saskatchewan are another natural wonder that deserve to be in your great western Canada bucket list. Formed around the last Ice Age, this unusual place is proof of the changes brought by the melting of the Laurentides. 

Things to do in Great Sandhills 

Start by visiting The famous Hanging Cowboy Boots Spot for an Insta-worthy moment. Then, head over to the dunes for a hike – don’t miss the chance to ride your way down on a carpet. Hiking the Sandhills is also a good opportunity to spot a few of the 19 unique bird species that live in the area.

After a day of outdoor fun, cool down and unwind while learning about Saskatchewan’s “desert” at the Great Sandhills Museum & Interpretive Center

When to visit Great Sandhills

The months from May to October are the best time to plan your visit. Avoid visiting during rainy days as navigating through wet sand is not an easy hike and it’s definitely an impossible drive.

There aren’t ATV rides or adventure sports services available on site. For the best experience, be sure to check the weather and plan in advance to bring in all the gear you will need.

How to get to Great Sandhills 

The Sandhills are located 12 km south of Sceptre, Saskatchewan. It can be tricky to find the the entrance to the park so we recommend heading to the museum as a starting point where you can get directions. The Hanging Cowboy Boots Spot is also a good landmark to get you oriented.

Accommodations near Great Sandhills

Cites like Saskatoon , Regina and even Calgary are only a few hours away from Great Sandhills and a great option for finding accommodations. These cities have a variety of vacation rental options perfect for when you travel with family or a group of friends.

Saint-Pierre And Miquelon, Newfoundland

If you want to explore Canada, but a European feel is more your thing, Saint-Pierre And Miquelon is certainly a destination for your Canada bucket list.

Located in the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, this magical archipelago consist of several islands: Saint-Pierre, Miquelon-Langlade, L’Île-aux-Marins as well as other inhabited smaller islands. Together they are known as Saint-Pierre And Miquelon make for an idyllic island vacations filled with French cuisine, boutiques and a culture that blends European customs with North Atlantic living.

Things to do in Saint-Pierre And Miquelon

Nature lovers will love the islands’ network of coastal trails that offer complete serenity and access to diverse flora and fauna, as well as tours offered on the water by boat to discover the region’s seabirds, whales, and other ocean species.

For traditional Saint-Pierre activities, don’t miss the chance to experience a Pelote game. A traditional Basque tennis ball game popular in the island.

Several culture walks and museum tours are also available in Saint-Pierre. A loop through the city’s old district and its historic architecture is a must to understand the island’s heritage. Immerse yourself in a liquor smuggling adventure when you tour the many Prohibition era buildings!

While smaller in population, Miquelon is also a laidback destination that visitors ofter forget to visit. Indulge in its French cuisine, explore the collection of wines, stroll down its sandy beaches and shop for exclusive soaps and perfumes that come directly from France. 

When to visit Saint-Pierre And Miquelon

Summer is without a doubt the best time to explore Saint-Pierre and Miquelon as it offers the best weather and all the villages feel alive with summer festivals and tons of outdoor exploration opportunities.

St-Pierre & Miquelon follows more of the European culture and customs, so it’s best to do a bit of research to avoid any setbacks. Check the shop’s business hours as most close around lunch time and do not open at all on Sundays. Making reservations in advance for restaurants and activities is also needed when travelling to Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. 

Saint Pierre et Miquelon is a French territory in Canada, therefore, if you are not a holder of a French or Canadian identification document like driver’s license or passport you might require a visa to enter Saint-Pierre et Miquelon. The official currency of this French archipelago is the Euro. There are currency exchange services in the islands as well as credit-card-only automated teller machines.

How to get to Saint-Pierre And Miquelon

There are two main ways to get to Saint-Pierre and Miquelon. You can either take a direct flight to St. Pierre airport or fly to Fortune, Newfoundland. From there, take a ferry to the archipelago. Since there are few direct flights to St. Pierre, tickets are limited, so it’s recommended to plan well ahead and book your flights in advance. 

Accommodations in Saint-Pierre And Miquelon

There are a number of accommodations options in Saint-Pierre et Miquelon, but you won’t find any big chain hotels here! Accommodations include small modern hotels, charming inns, and cozy B&B’s. No matter where you decide to stay, make sure you book your room well in advance, as accommodations tend to be at capacity all season long.

Bonnechere Caves, Ontario 

is a unique adventure in Ontario perfect for your travel bucket list. These limestone cave systems were formed almost 450,000 years ago, offering a window into the past. The caves also provide plenty of unique underground experiences and events that help making it one of the best experiences in Canada.

A trip to the Bonnechere Caves is a unique adventure in Ontario perfect for your travel bucket list. These limestone cave systems were formed almost 450,000 years ago, offering a window into the past. The caves also provide plenty of unique underground experiences and events that help making it one of the best experiences in Canada.

Things to do in Bonnechere Caves

While tours are great for families, the caves also offer a unique live music and dining experience perfect for couples.

During the peak season, take a one-hour guided tour to learn about the significance of the Bonnechere Caves. While tours are great for families, the caves also offer a unique live music and dining experience perfect for couples.

The Bonnechere area is not only about the caves, in fact, Bonnechere offers some of the best things to do in Ontario for all types of travellers. If you’re looking for an active getaway, the Tour de Bonnechere Bicycle Race is a fast-paced attraction. Palaeontology buffs can get their thrills with fossil hunts at the Bonnechere Museum, while nature lovers will enjoy the unique Paddle and Fiddle the Bonnechere event.

When to visit Bonnechere Caves 

The caves are closed during the winter months to let the water in and prevent erosion from the freezing temperatures. They open again in May and stay open until the American Thanksgiving. 

There’s a lot to do around Bonnechere Caves, including theatre, paddling, fishing, museum tours, and birdwatching. Planning your trip in advance can help you get the most out of this vacation. 

How to get to Bonnechere Caves 

The easiest way to get to Bonnechere Caves is by taking Highway 60 from Ottawa towards Eganville. If you are coming from Toronto, take Highway 401 and then 41. The caves are less than a couple of hours drive from Ottawa, making them an easy and quick escape for your summer bucket list. 

Accommodations Near Bonnechere Caves

is only 120 kilometres away from the caves. It’s the best accommodation option as you’ll find a variety of rentals in Canada’s capital. If you are visiting during the summer make sure to check out our recommendations for in the summer.

If you’re planning on making a trip out of it, Ottawa is only 120 kilometres away from the caves. It’s the best accommodation option as you’ll find a variety of rentals in Canada’s capital. If you are visiting during the summer make sure to check out our recommendations for fun things to do in Ottawa in the summer.

Lunenburg, Nova Scotia 

Lunenburg makes justice to the seafaring reputation of Nova Scotia. It is home to the famous Bluenose and Bluenose II sail ships , and is blessed with a picturesque waterfront. The rustic lifestyle along with the classic architecture and the great art and cultural scene make Lunenburg one of the best experiences in Canada.

Things to do in Lunenburg

Any visit to Lunenburg should include sailing on the replica of Canada’s most celebrated racing sail ship – The Bluenose. Travellers can also try the walking tours and tasting events at the Ironworks Distillery.

To learn more about Nova Scotia’s fishing heritage, make sure to visit the Fisheries Museum. Taking a horse buggy tour and dining at the Salt Shaker Deli or The Fish Shack are also a must!

When to visit Lunenburg

Each season brings an interesting new side of Lunenburg. While the winter months are a treat for food lovers, with the lobster season in full swing, summer months bring the patio decks with perfect temperatures to soak in the sun. 

The village of Blue Rocks is a short six-minute drive from Lunenburg and is a hidden treasure known only to the locals. Considered as Lunenburg’s “answer” to Peggy’s Cove, this small hamlet is a dream for artists and photographers.  

How to get to Lunenburg

The closest major city to Lunenburg is Halifax . It’s a good idea to find accommodation there and travel to Lunenburg by car for a day trip. Lunenburg is only an hour drive from Halifax International Airport.

Accommodations in Lunenburg

Throughout the town of Lunenburg, you’ll find here and there homes and buildings dating back more than 200 years that have been converted into charming vacation rentals. Add some flair to your Lunenburg trip by choosing a historic quaint close to the ocean and all that Lunenburg has to offer.

Osoyoos – British Columbia

Fine wines and culture go hand in hand at Osoyoos , one of the most celebrated destinations in British Columbia. It has a unique desert ecosystem and a variety of wineries, as well as opportunities to experience the indigenous culture.

Things to do in Osoyoos

The desert of Osoyoos has a semi-arid climate, so it is surprisingly full of shrubbery. A boardwalk through Canada’s only desert is a unique experience you can’t miss. More active travellers can also indulge in water-sports at Canada’s warmest lake.

Situated at the southern-most tip of the Okanagan valley. It comes to no surprise that Osoyoos is one Canada’s hottest wine country. If you consider yourself a foodie, the wine tastings offered by the more than 50 wineries in the area are a must-visit for you.

A visit to the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre , a state-of-the-art interpretive Centre, is recommended for those seeking a cultural experience. However, if you want the best of both worlds, you can head to Nk’Mip Cellars, the first Indigenous-owned and operated winery in Canada.

How to get to Osoyoos 

Penticton, British Columbia is the closest airport to Osoyoos. From there, it is just an hour drive to the magical desert. Nearby Kelowna, also offers frequent flights from Canada’s major cities as well as a shuttle bus to Osoyoos. The shuttle costs $45 and takes 3 hours and 15 minutes.

Another option is take the 5-hour drive from Vancouver by taking the BC-1E or the BC-3E highways.

When to visit Osoyoos

Summer is the Okanagan Valley’s peak season, with hot temperatures perfect for a trip to the beaches and wineries. Spring and fall is also a great time to visit Osoyoos. Spring brings many events and activities while the fall colours of the vineyards are a visual delight. And even in the winter, when the weather in Canada gets colder, temperatures in Osoyoos are mild and cozy. 

The Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad is a hidden gem that you must visit. This miniature railroad is a perfect way to spend the day with your family, especially with kids.

Accommodations in Osoyoos

Osoyoos’ cultural and natural attractions are a great addition to your travel bucket list. Accommodation options in this community are plentiful with all kinds of amenities, from hospitable standalone villas to five-star luxury resorts.  

Drumheller – Alberta 

Are you planning a family trip? then Drumheller, needs to be in your Canada bucket list.

One of Alberta’s best-kept secrets, Drumheller in the Canadian Badlands, is a great child friendly holiday destination in Canada. Known as the “Dinosaur Capital of the World” this town is the perfect for families looking for a connection with nature and history.

Things to do in Drumheller 

A visit to Drumheller is an opportunity to brush up on your archaeology skills, learn mining history and enjoy a majestic view of the valley.

Drumheller offers an immersive learning experience about all things dino. You can visit the exhibits, climb to the mouth of the largest dinosaur, and even try your hand at digging up a real fossil. Lesser known, but equally interesting attractions in Drumheller include a trip to the coal mines and a breathtaking view of canyons and hoodoos.

When to travel 

The travel season to Drumheller starts from spring and lasts until the fall, with the summers receiving the highest footfall.  

Traveling to Drumheller in either early spring or late fall makes it a more relaxed, less hectic experience than in the summer. During this time you can also enjoy all the off-season rates.

How to get to Drumheller 

Just under two hours from Calgary, Drumheller is an excellent day trip option that can be reached by taking either highway AB-575 or AB-9. 

Accommodations near Drumheller

To get the most our of your vacation, stay in Calgary and make a day trip to Drumheller.

Magdalen Islands – Québec

Nestled in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Magdalen Islands are a must-visit destination for your Québec bucket list. These archipelago in the Gaspé region is formed by seven small islands each with beautiful and unique costal landscapes. are a photographers’ paradise, with their red rocks and crystal blue Atlantic views. The rich Acadian-French culture, seal-watching and a great variety of culinary experiences make it an unforgettable destination.

The Magdalen Islands, also called Les Iles are a photographers’ paradise, with their red rocks and crystal blue Atlantic views. The rich Acadian-French culture, seal-watching and a great variety of culinary experiences make it an unforgettable destination.

Things to do in Magdalen Islands 

If you are looking for indoor activities, trying your hand at glass and sand art or enjoying the island’s cuisine is the way to go. The islands are particularly known for their craft beers, wines and of course, their seafood dishes.

Hiking the grassy hills, forest paths, dunes and beaches is one of the most interesting ways to explore the outdoors in Les Iles. If you are looking for indoor activities, trying your hand at glass and sand art or enjoying the island’s cuisine is the way to go. The islands are particularly known for their craft beers, wines and of course, their seafood dishes.

Another unique culinary experience here is trying their local cheese. The Pied-de-vent, a semi-soft cheese is exclusive to the Magdalen Islands and one that Madelinots take pride on exporting to the rest of the world.

Best time to visit 

May to October is the best time to visit the Magdalens. However, winter trips also offer unique experiences, such as seal watching in March. The islands are also a great winter destination, since the climate is milder compared to mainland Quebec.

Activities like sea kayaking are an exciting experience for the entire family. Another option in the Magdalens is kite-buggy riding, one of the most unique things to do in Canada.

Accommodations in Magdalen Islands 

Cottage rentals in the summer are a big business in the Island and a great option for accommodations, however, if you’re planning to visit then, make sure you book your stay in advance. You’ll also find several seaside inns and B&Bs close to all the island’s main attractions.

Churchill – Manitoba 

Churchill offers a spellbinding view of the and a peek into a way of life from another era. It’s a modern-day wonder with a 4,000-year history, without which your bucket list is incomplete.

Churchill is located on the shores of Hudson Bay, and is aptly named the “polar bear capital of the world” . Churchill offers a spellbinding view of the aurora borealis and a peek into a way of life from another era. It’s a modern-day wonder with a 4,000-year history, without which your bucket list is incomplete.

Thing to do in Churchill 

Churchill is one of the top three places in the world to experience the northern lights. This activity drives many visitors from all around the world during its peak months of February and March. If this is something you want to experience, the Churchill Northern Studies Centre, the Operational research Center as well as some smaller hotels and private companies offer sites with ideal conditions for viewing the night sky.

For animal lovers, polar bear watching expeditions and kayaking with the beluga whales are a unique and exciting opportunity to be in touch with nature. In Churchill’s cozy cafes and pubs, you can indulge in arctic delicacies such as the famous Borealis Burger.

When to visit 

Churchill’s peak season is from October until March. If you’re looking to experience the northern light, visit in the winter, but if you plan to go on a polar bear expedition plan your trip for the fall. Summer months are perfect to experience the marine life and all the water activities as the weather is milder.

Churchill has one of the highest populations of wild polar bears, so locals have learned how to co-exist with them. But as a foreigner , before visiting, it’s important to go through the Bear Alert Program as well as reading all precautions and protocols in case you encounter a bears.

How to get to Churchill 

Churchill’s secludedness makes getting to it an adventure itself, especially if you take the train from Winnipeg. Churchill is about 624 miles/ 1004.23 km from Winnipeg, and can only be reached by train or plane. The two-day train journey is an exploration through lesser-known places in Canada. Flights are also from Winnipeg are shorter, however they book fast, especially during polar bear peak seasons.

When it comes to exploring unique destinations and experiencing all that Canada has to offer, it may take a decade just to scratch at the surface. To paraphrase Jack Kerouac, there is nowhere to go but everywhere. So what are you waiting for? Choose a destination from the list, book your stay, and start living your dream. If you run out of places to visit, also check our must do Canada bucket list from last year.

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Five Of The Best Cities And Places To Visit In Canada

Canada is loved and explored by many people each year. Travelers visit this North American gem for its rugged mountains in British Columbia, charming lakes and rivers in Banff national park, and cosmopolitan cities like Toronto.

The Great White North is fantastic for outdoor activities, meeting the friendliest people, and winter sports like skiing. Besides the big cities, you can head out to the more rural parts of the country and fall in love with the adorable little towns. That’s just some of the reasons why you should spend your holidays in wonderful Canada.

Follow through this list of vacation ideas as Kiwi.com presents five of the best cities and places you should visit in Canada.

When Is The Best Time To Travel To Canada?

Canada is known for its incredibly cold winters and hot summers, but it’s such a big country that the weather varies from region to region.

The winter season in Canada kicks off at the beginning of December and runs right through to March. The whole country gets very cold, some places more than others. Coastal cities like Vancouver are mild, seeing lows at 4°C compared to the northern regions that experience temperatures as low as – 20°C. A Christmas vacation to Canada is well worth it if you can brave the cold.

July and August are the most popular months to visit Canada. The summer season has the nicest weather, with temperatures ranging between 25 and 35 °C across the country.

Nature lovers will particularly take a liking to Canada during the Autumn season. The temperatures aren’t the warmest, but it’s not too cold either, the leaves on the trees are changing colors, and the crowds for tourist attractions are never that long.

Spring, on the other hand, is a little bit colder. Temperatures can drop as low as 0°C sometimes, but it gets progressively warmer as time goes on.

Five Of The Top Places To Go In Canada

• Quebec City

Ottawa – The Capital City Filled With Diversity

The Canadian capital of Ottawa is often overshadowed by its neighbor Toronto, but it has so much that visitors will love, from interesting museums like the National Gallery to street food stalls selling the maple syrup that Canada is famed for. After your first trip, you’ll start to question why doesn’t this beautiful city get the recognition it deserves.

What Are Some Exciting Things To Do In Ottawa?

Take a yoga class on Parliament Hill – Every Wednesday at noon from May to August, hundreds of people gather at Parliament Hill for a free yoga class. Grab your mat, join in on the fun, and meet new people.

Crash against the waves doing some whitewater rafting – Adventure lovers from all over Canada, flock to the Ottawa river, to do some whitewater rafting for a hit of adrenaline every year. The Ottawa river is known to be one of the best locations for whitewater rafting in the world. Book ahead to avoid disappointment if you’re visiting during the high season.

Admire the John Ceprano Rocks – Along the Ottawa river, you’ll find the spectacular John Ceprano Rocks, which are a set of uniquely shaped set of tall standing rocks produced by the famous artist John Ceprano. When the weather is nice, head down there to catch the sunset, you won’t be disappointed.

Dishes You Should Eat In Ottawa

Beaver Tails – Ottawa is the ultimate place to try Beaver Tails, a Canadian specialty that comes in the form of fried dough shaped like a beaver’s tail and is often covered in chocolate, cinnamon, sugar, or banana. One of these treats is never enough.

Maple Bacon Doughnuts – Head over to SuzyQ Doughnuts and try out their Maple Bacon recipe. They’re popular for their famous doughnut snack, sugar glazed and sprinkled with crispy maple bacon. Don’t knock it until you try it.

Need To Know Tips For Visiting Ottawa

• When you arrive at Ottawa Airport, take an Uber into the city center. It’s the cheapest way to get there.
• To find the areas of Ottawa that many tourists don’t get the opportunity to see, hire a HOPPR bike. Download the HOPPR transit application on your phone and pick up the bike from one of the many docking stations.
• Discover Canada’s capital city from New York – book your flights now!
• From Cancún to Ottawa – experience the beauty of Canada.
• Fly from London to Ottawa and immerse yourself in Canadian culture.
• Washington, D.C. to Ottawa flights – explore Canada’s rich history.
• Explore Ottawa from Mexico City – book your flights to Canada today!

Toronto – Canada’s Largest City

The bustling city of Toronto is Canada’s main business hub and is seen as the face of the country. Showcasing spectacular skyscrapers, vibrant streets, and ethnic diversity. Toronto has something for everyone, whether you want to spend your days shopping at one of the mega malls or prefer to watch an exciting baseball game at the Rogers Center. The options are endless in Canada’s biggest city.

The Top Attractions In Toronto, One Of The Best Places To Travel In Canada

Hit new heights at the CN Tower – No visit to Toronto is complete without making it to the top of the CN Tower. The 553-meter tall structure is recognized worldwide and can be spotted from all corners of the city. Choose to admire it from a distance or take the lift up to the top and walk along the glass floor.

Take a trip to Niagara Falls – Arguably, one of the most iconic places in Canada is Niagara Falls. It’s only an hour and a half drive from Toronto and will really take your breath away. Book yourself on the Maid of the Mist boat tour and get up close and personal to this beautiful erosional landform. Don’t forget your jacket because you’re guaranteed to get absolutely soaked.

Grab some last-minute souvenirs at Kensington Market – See a whole different side to Toronto at the Kensington Market. Hear the sounds of buskers, feel the Bohemian vibe, and scout through the corner shops selling everything from Tibetan blankets to vintage clothing.

Must Try Food And Drink In Toronto

Peameal Bacon Sandwich – Yeah, regular bacon is good, but have you ever tried peameal bacon? It’s a wet-cured, unsmoked back bacon that’s popular in Canada. Put this in the middle of two slices of toasted bread and your favorite toppings, and you have heaven.

The Caeser Cocktail – A Caeser Cocktail has all of the same ingredients as a Bloody Mary, but instead of using tomato juice, it’s made with a blend of clam and tomato juice. People from Toronto love this stuff and are very passionate about it. Try it for yourself to see what the fuss is.

What To Know Before Visiting Toronto

• Toronto has a 13% tax added to all goods and services, so don’t be surprised if you see a different price when you arrive at the counter. Usually, shops will mention it on the label, though.
• If you plan on visiting a sports event, purchase your tickets well in advance. Once tickets are released, they get snapped up by die-hard fans.
• Canadians are big on tipping, especially in Toronto. While it’s not expected, there’s an unwritten rule that you should always leave behind 15 to 20% to say thank you.
• Fly from New York to Toronto to discover the charming neighborhoods of Canada’s largest city.
• Book a flight from Warsaw to Toronto to experience the diversity of Toronto’s food scene.
• From Mexico City to Toronto – Explore the cultural landmarks and attractions of this vibrant city.
• Escape to the great outdoors with flights from Cancún to Toronto – explore the nearby Niagara Falls.
• Discover the multicultural city of Toronto with flights from Paris.

Vancouver – A Blend Between Urban And Natural Beauties

Envision a colossal city surrounded by craggy mountains where the people are some of the friendliest in the world; that’s Vancouver. The coastal city is situated in the province of British Columbia and is a gateway to some of the country’s most visited national parks, like the Pacific Rim national park.

Must See Spots In Vancouver

Pay a visit to the Vancouver Aquarium – A brilliant way to spend a day out for families is by heading to the Vancouver Aquarium. Watch the sea otters in their natural environment, look at a Burmese tortoise in the rescue section, and learn something new from one of the exhibits on display.

Relax at Kitsilano Beach – Vancouver has plenty of fabulous beaches, but the best has to be Kitsilano Beach. Find yourself a quiet place and gaze at the skyscrapers with the backdrop of the snowcapped mountains in the distance.

Walk over the Capilano Suspension Bridge – This swaying bridge has been in operation since 1889 and is suspended 70 meters above a gorgeous river canyon. While the bridge might not look sturdy, it’s built to be able to hold the weight of an entire 747 plane.

Best Food And Drinks To Sample In Vancouver

Candied Salmon – Seafood is huge in Vancouver, but one specialty all locals will recommend you try is Candied Salmon. It’s like a traditional lump on salmon, only it’s glazed in maple syrup and some herbs and spices. Get your hands on some in Stanley Park at one of the stalls.

West Coast Oysters – Vancouver produces some of the freshest shellfish in Canada. You’ll find authentic seafood restaurants all over the city offering great deals on West Coast Oysters. Order yourself a plate and follow the rules; eat them in one gulp with a squirt of lemon juice.

Things You Need To Know Before Visiting Vancouver

• If you’re planning on getting outside of the city to explore, hiring a car might be worthwhile, or else you’ll have to rely on organized tours which could add up to quite a bit.
• It rains a lot in Vancouver but rarely impacts your plans. To avoid it altogether, try to visit in July or August.
• Escape to Canada – Fly from Mexico City to Vancouver now.
• Fly from Los Angeles to Vancouver to explore the great outdoors.
• San Francisco to Vancouver flights – book now for stunning views.
• Experience the best of Vancouver – Fly from Guadalajara now.
• London to Vancouver flights – your gateway to the Canadian Rockies.

Quebec City – The French Speaking Province Of Canada

The lively Quebec City is one of Canada’s top places to see. Many people know it as the “Europe of North America’ because it’s a city in the only French-speaking province in the country. Your first stroll through the quaint streets will almost make you feel like you are on holiday in Paris.

Beautiful Places And Things To Do In Quebec City

Walk around Place Royale – Enjoy a mix between past and present at the picturesque Place Royale, a magical square with old-fashioned cobble streets and modern-day cafes and restaurants. It’s one of the main tourist areas in Quebec City and has a fascinating history due to it being the location where Samuel de Champlain founded the metropolis in 1608.

Go see the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré – Over half a million people are lucky enough to make it to the Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré every year. It’s the oldest pilgrimage site in North America and is devoted to Saint Anne, Jesus’s grandmother. Learn about how important she is to the people of Quebec and hear her story.

Catch a glimpse of Montmorency Falls – Standing 30 meters higher than Niagara Falls are the captivating Montmorency Falls in Quebec. They’re only a short 15 minutes away from the city and are best enjoyed by taking a cable car to the top of the nearby cliff, which has a delightful viewpoint.

What To Eat In Quebec City

French-Canadian Crêpes – When you’re up for a sweet treat in Quebec City, your go-to has to be French-Canadian Crêpes. Think of them like normal crêpes, only much fluffier, smothered in chocolate sauce and filled with the tastiest toppings.

Poutine – Everywhere you go in Canada, there will be somewhere selling poutine, but it originates from Quebec City. It’s a simple yet oh-so-delicious dish containing deep-fried potato chips drenched in cheese and gravy. For added flavor, get extra toppings like pulled pork or smokey bacon. Poutine isn’t the healthiest dish, but after your first, you’ll find it hard to resist more.

Secret Tips To Know Before You Go To Quebec City

• Book your accommodation well in advance if you plan to visit Quebec City for big celebrations like the Carnaval de Québec. Hotels bump their prices up massively when they know there’s something on because they know people will pay.
• English is spoken in Quebec City but please bear with the locals because many can’t speak it very well.
• Discover the charm of Quebec City from Paris – book your flight today.
• Fly to Quebec City from New York and experience Canada’s rich history.
• Escape to the beauty of Quebec City from Fort Lauderdale.
• Head north to Quebec City from Cancún and explore Canada’s hidden gem.
• Discover Quebec City from London – book your flight now.

Montreal – Where Lovers Of Art, Music, And History Come Together

Montreal is Canada’s second-largest city and is located in the Quebec province. The official language there is French, like Quebec City, so brush up on your speaking skills before you arrive. Known as a city of the youth, Montreal has so much to do and cool places to see such as the Biodome, La Ronde amusement park, and more.

Montreal – What To Do There

Take a photo of the Notre Dame Basilica – Situated in Old Montreal, the Notre Dame Basilica is a classic example of Gothic architecture that hundreds of thousands of people visit every year. It was built in the 1820s, and still, to this day, it’s used by many worshippers. Tickets can be bought at the door, and free walking tours of the complex are available upon request.

Relax at the Bota Bota, Spa-Sur-L’eau – Popular among couples away for honeymoons or unwinding after a long day of exploring, the Bota Bota, Spa-Sur-L’eau is one of Canada’s most talked about spas. It’s located on a ship that’s anchored at the Old Port of Montreal and offers visitors a range of steamy saunas and bubbly jacuzzis, as well as body treatments, massages, and more.

Discover Montreal’s nightlife scene – Montreal is Canada’s party capital, home to world-class clubs, bars, and live music venues. When deciding where to spend your evening dancing the night away, choose from an array of options, like live DJs hosting events in Downtown Montreal or bands playing live music until the early morning hours in Rue Crescent.

The Best Food And Drinks In Montreal

Smoked Meat Sandwich – Montreal’s smoked meat sandwiches are to die for. The recipe comes from Jews who immigrated to the city from Eastern Europe in the 19th and 20th centuries. They’re made with white rye bread and smoked meat and covered in copious amounts of yellow mustard. It won’t be long before you spot a stand at the side of the street selling these scrumptious snacks.

Caribou – Originally from Quebec City but found all over Montreal is Caribou, made with vodka, brandy, sherry, and port. Caribou is served as a warm beverage and often served with a cinnamon stick, similar to mulled wine. One of these will warm you up after a day in the snow.

Tips for Tourists Visiting Montreal

• You’ll probably hear people use the word “dep” during your time in Montreal. It’s just short for the French word dépanneur, which translates to store in English.
• The legal drinking age in Montreal is 18, whereas, in the rest of Canada, it’s 19, which explains why the party scene is so huge there.
• If you see a sign that says ‘5-à-7,’ that means the bar or restaurant has a happy hour.
• Book flights from Paris to Montreal flights – let the adventure begin!
• Warsaw to Montreal flights – fly high and explore Canada.
• Mexico City to Montreal flights – buckle up and get ready for a Canadian adventure like no other!
• New York to Montreal flights – take off to the Great White North.
• London to Montreal flights – get ready to discover Canada’s vibrant city at your own pace!

Want more interesting tips and information on traveling? Read more Kiwi.com articles!

• Introduction

Frequently asked questions

July and August have the most favorable weather temperatures for sun lovers. Still, a lot of people are traveling then, so the cost of everything is much higher, especially in warm places.

To dodge the crowds and the high prices, visit in the Autumn, from September to November. Temperatures range between 5°C and 20°C, the prices for accommodation and flights aren't as high, and major sights aren't as busy, so you'll have the whole place to yourself.

At Kiwi.com, our goal is to make the world accessible to all. We provide you with the cheapest fares we find through our travel hacks and technology that you won't see on any other search engines.

To get started, check out our Canada destination page, choose where you would love to fly to, and allow us to start helping you book your flights to your dream destinations. With Kiwi, you can fly anywhere you want for an affordable price.

Canada is a vast country known for its outdoor exploration opportunities, natural wonders, maple syrup, ice hockey, and unforgettable road trips.

While first-time visitors to Canada will think all Canadians do is eat poutine, that's not true. There's so much more to the country's cuisine, like traditional Bannock, Montreal-style bagels, split-pea soup, and much more.

Go to Canada for as long as you can. It's the second-largest country in the world, so you couldn't see it all even if you tried. Some people go on holiday to Canada for a couple of weeks and try to see as much as possible, while others are happy to stick to one place.

• Travel with pets
• Travel with kids

8 Great Places Across Canada to Visit This Summer

Get lost in the outdoor regions and bustling centers of the great white north..

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From outdoor excursions to city exploration, summer in Canada’s got plenty in store for you.

Photo by Tobias Negele/Shutterstock

With Canada covering 6,204,391 square miles and encompassing three oceans—and a huge variety of landscapes and cultures between them—there is plenty to see and do in the country. That’s especially true in the summer, when the sun reveals all sorts of spots hidden during the winter.

It’s hard to whittle down such an immense and diverse country to just a handful or two of places, but here are eight of our favorite locations to spend a summer in Canada.

1. Prince Edward Island

Canada ’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island is a delicious summer cocktail of sweeping coastal views, red sandstone cliffs, and pristine beaches blended with fresh maritime cuisine and welcoming towns.

While many of the island’s beloved sand dunes suffered severe erosion as a result of Hurricane Fiona in 2022, the opening of the Canadian Centre for Climate Change and Adaptation in St. Peters Bay provides reason for hope. Explorers can also enjoy the Island Walk , a 435-mile route opened in 2021. Circumnavigating the perimeter of the island, it takes in beaches, PEI’s red dirt roads, scenic viewpoints, and ocean paths. With 32 sections, it’s easy to jump on and off for a bit of exploration and culinary indulgence in foods like lobster rolls.

Where to stay

• Book now: The Great George

Plan to stay in Charlottetown? The Great George has 54 rooms and suites spread among 17 restored heritage properties in the city’s historic district.

In the summer, thousands of beluga whales head to the Churchill River Estuary.

Courtesy of Travel Manitoba

2. Churchill, Manitoba

It’s not only polar bears that are worth seeing in the “polar bear capital of the world.” In summer, 60,000 beluga whales—the highest concentration in the world—migrate to places like the Churchill River Estuary in Hudson Bay.

To get up close to the whales, it’s possible to kayak among the congenial creatures, but imagine being able to view them from beneath the water. Beginning summer 2023, visitors will be able to thrill at the animals’ subaquatic behaviors aboard the Matonabee , Lazy Bear Expeditions’ brand new vessel featuring 12 submerged windows. On a coastal boat tour, it’s possible to see many other local animals on the shore, such as Arctic foxes and Arctic hares. Polar bears can sometimes be seen, too, sunbathing on boulders, swimming in the water, or rolling in fields of wildflowers.

• Book now: Lazy Bear Lodge

Lazy Bear Lodge is a cozy log cabin made of timber reclaimed from a boreal forest fire and recycled wavy glass windows from a 19th-century Hudson Bay Trading Post.

The North Saskatchewan River has been important for the livelihood of the Indigenous people in the area.

Photo by Rita Petcu/Shutterstock

3. Métis Crossing, Alberta

Canada’s first major Métis cultural destination, Métis Crossing, is a gathering place and interpretative center for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people alike, the perfect place to foster cultural understanding and reconciliation.

Summer visitors can learn traditional Métis crafts such as beading, ribbon skirt-making or embroidering from Knowledge-Keeper Lilyrose Meyers. Outdoor activities include a guided visit to the wildlife park, home to elk, horses, and three types of bison; stargazing and Métis storytelling; or paddling in a replica Voyageur canoe down the North Saskatchewan River, just as Indigenous fur traders once did. It was also one of AFAR’s places to go in 2022 .

• Book now: The Lodge at Métis Crossing

Overnight guests can camp in traditional trapper tents or bed down in style at the Métis-designed 40-room boutique lodge , opened in December 2021. Beginning summer 2023, amateur astronomers will be able to contemplate the stars from the comfort of their beds in the new sky watching dome accommodations .

This summer, spend time in Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia.

Photo by Russ Heinl/Shutterstock

4. Halifax, Nova Scotia

Cities may not be top of mind for travelers seeking the great outdoors. Mild-weathered Halifax , however, is an exception to that rule. With gorgeous beaches (some with surf schools), provincial parks, and islands aplenty in and around Halifax, this city of 420,000 comes to life in summer.

These days, however, the former Atlantic backwater is upping its sophistication game as its foodie, wine, and craft brewery and distillery scenes grow. Recently, $200 million of private investment in the region brought a major makeover and expansion of the waterfront district. Unveiled in November 2021, the Queen’s Marque is a premier arts, dining, and shopping destination with world-class galleries and public art installations. Dining and drinking options include Drift , a refined, contemporary take on classic Atlantic Canadian dishes; Peacock , an intimate bistro and wine bar; Bar Sofia , showcasing Argentinian and Peruvian dishes; and Daryâ , a restaurant highlighting eastern Mediterranean flavors.

• Book now: Muir Halifax

An AFAR 2023 Stay List pick , the Muir Halifax is Atlantic Canada’s first five-star boutique hotel. It even offers guests private tours of Halifax’s coastline aboard its 36-foot yacht or high-speed 24-foot motorboat.

The Fundy Trail Parkway is part of the UNESCO-recognized Fundy Biosphere Reserve.

Photo by Nick Hawkins/Tourism New Brunswick

5. The Fundy Trail Parkway, New Brunswick

You’ve likely heard of Cape Breton Island’s Cabot Trail . But what about the Fundy Trail Parkway ? Built over a 25-year span and completed in 2021, the Parkway is not only a beautiful 18-mile drive along the Bay of Fundy’s rocky coastline but also a nature park. The park encompasses five beaches, four waterfalls, 22 miles of hiking and cycling trails, and almost two dozen scenic lookouts and observation decks.

Take a First Nations–guided walk in the bay’s tides (the highest in the world) to discover the history and culture of Wolastoq and Mi’kmaq peoples and learn about their stories and traditional medicines. Over at Cape Hopewell, wander the Hopewell Rocks, 600 million years old, and—if you dare—kayak among these astounding geological formations after dark—and at high tide—with Baymount Adventures .

• Book now: Beach Street Inn

Anchor yourself in the Bay of Fundy at the new Beach Street Inn in the small fishing village of St. Martin’s. The stay features homey touches like a terrace, a garden, and in-room fireplaces.

Part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain UNESCO World Heritage site, Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park features a mountain nearly 12,000 feet tall.

Photo by Alex Gorey/Unsplash

6. Kootenay Rockies, British Columbia

With three mountain ranges, six national parks, and 47 provincial parks, there is no shortage of natural beauty in the remote Kootenay Rockies of British Columbia, the first region in Canada to implement a community-driven strategy to build a clean transportation network in a rural setting. Mountain towns bearing names like Golden, Trail, Fernie, and Revelstoke are becoming increasingly trendy among alpine ski fanatics, backcountry skiers, hikers, and nature-loving creatives and the food scene has followed suit.

There is much for outdoor enthusiasts to do here: Go mountain biking on steep trails. Splash around waterfalls. Soak in hot springs. Spot birds and mammals by kayak or canoe in the water world that is the Columbia Wetlands in summer. Visit Boo, a 20-year-old orphaned grizzly bear, at the Kicking Horse Grizzly Bear Refuge .

In Golden, thrill seekers will appreciate Golden Skybridge , a new outdoor adventure park spread around the rim of a rock canyon. Opened in 2021, the park is home to two suspension bridges, the highest in Canada, dangling above a deep abyss.

• Book now: Heather Mountain Lodge ; Purcell Mountain Lodge

Get an immersive stay within British Columbia’s natural splendor and savor gourmet cuisine at Heather Mountain Lodge or Purcell Mountain Lodge —the latter only accessible by helicopter.

Especially with Niagara-on-the-Lake’s summertime activities, its proximity to Niagara Falls is only the beginning to this destination’s offerings.

Photo by Edward Koorey/Unsplash

7. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

Ontario’s Niagara peninsula is home to the border-crossing Niagara Falls , but there’s more to the region than the natural wonder: sun-splashed rolling vineyards and award-winning wineries, the sandy beaches of Lake Erie, soothing spas, championship golf courses, scenic hiking and cycling trails, and pretty towns and villages. The crown jewel of these is Niagara-on-the-Lake, a town of 18,000 with boutique shops, lovingly maintained Victorian buildings, cast-iron planters cascading with flowers, and, of course, the acclaimed Shaw Festival .

Founded in 1962, the Shaw is an international destination for theater lovers. The season runs until November, with this year’s lineup featuring 13 plays, including The Playboy of the Western World , The Amen Corner , Prince Caspian , and The Shadow of a Doubt . The Spiegeltent, open only in summer, will run Mother, Daughter and The Game of Love and Chance . Another outdoor performance space will put on other shows and events.

• Book now: 124 Q Hotel & Spa ; Riverbend Inn & Vineyard

In the Old Town, try the newly revamped and expanded 124 Q Hotel & Spa . Housed in a Georgian mansion, the Riverbend Inn & Vineyard is a good bet for those wanting to be surrounded by vineyards.

The sweeping landscapes of Kamouraska are in eastern Quebec.

Photo by darengd/Unsplash

8. Bas St. Laurent, Quebec

Quebec is not only about Montreal and Quebec City . On the south shore of the St. Lawrence River lies the Bas Saint-Laurent (the Lower St. Lawrence), a distinctive maritime region east of Quebec City.

No trip along Route 132 is complete without a stop in Kamouraska. Dubbed le doux pays (“the sweet land”), by locals, Kamouraska is a picturesque tableau of meadows and farmlands sweeping down to the river, colorful Victorian homes with gabled roofs and wraparound verandas, and a main street lined with attractive boutiques and restaurants.

Also worth stopping for along the way are cities and municipalities like Notre-Dame-du-Portage, Saint-Pascal, and Sainte-Flavie, the gateway to the Gaspésie. Sainte-Flavie features the Centre d’Art Marcel Gagnon , a quirky art gallery whose exterior resembles a Gaudí confection. The beachfront, meanwhile, is the site of Le Grand Rassemblement ( The Great Gathering ), an art installation made of 80 concrete sculptures fixed into the water.

Whale watching is popular here. Tours are available from Croisières AML and depart from Rivière-du-Loup.

• Book now: Auberge du Portage

The Auberge du Portage resort has an outdoor heated saltwater pool, tennis court, a walking trail, and a patio perfect for drinks at sunset.

Watch CBS News

Missed the 2024 total solar eclipse? Watch video of moments from the event here.

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By Aliza Chasan , Meghan Schiller , Christopher DeRose , Sara Moniuszko , Emily Mae Czachor , Luis Giraldo , Kerry Breen , Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 8, 2024 / 8:49 PM EDT / CBS News

The sky darkened for millions in the U.S. on Monday as the 2024 total solar eclipse worked its way across a swath of the country.

A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow that blocks out the light from the sun. The sun appeared to vanish behind the moon for minutes at a time as the eclipse traveled along its "path of totality," starting on Mexico's Pacific coast and moving northeast through more than a dozen states, from Texas to Maine, and into eastern Canada. 

More than 31 million people live along the path of totality, and many more flew  or drove to witness  the April 8 spectacle in person. Outside the path of totality, the rest of the continental U.S. got to see a partial eclipse ( if skies were clear ) as the moon blocked a portion of the sun. It will be decades before the next total solar eclipse appears in the U.S.

High school students help NASA collect data during eclipse

Students at Eminence High School in Indiana didn't just watch Monday's total solar eclipse. With the help of a special telescope, they collected data on the sun's corona for NASA. The information will help researchers understand how the sun converts magnetic energy into heat.  

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-798d430e link copied

"It was totally worth it. It was amazing."

In Erie, Pennsylvania, people gathered to watch the total solar eclipse and broke out in applause as they plunged into darkness. Emotions took over as everyone fixated on the ring in the sky. There was a lot of awe, disbelief and strained necks as people looked up for four minutes straight.

One family drove eight hours from Virginia.

"I honestly was not that excited about it. I was like, eight hours for three minutes? But it was totally worth it. It was amazing," one family member said.

Read more here .

-Meghan Schiller and Christopher DeRose

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-24321e03 link copied

Watch: Cleveland witnesses solar eclipse totality

Spectators in Cleveland, Ohio, saw the total solar eclipse around 3:15 p.m. EDT as the moon covered the sun for a little more than three minutes. CBS News' Dave Malkoff witnessed the event with Stephen Bowen, a NASA astronaut and retired U.S. Navy captain.

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What other celestial events can you see in 2024?

Stargazers have more events to look forward to this year following the April 8 eclipse. 

There are several meteor showers ahead, including the Lyrid meteor shower later this month, expected to peak April 21-22. There's also the Eta Aquariids, peaking May 4-5; the Perseids, peaking Aug. 12-13; and the Geminids, peaking Dec. 13-14.

Outside of the U.S., an annular solar eclipse will be visible in South America on Oct. 2. 

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Watch: Eclipse reaches totality over Arkansas and Illinois

Dozens of couples were married in a mass ceremony in Arkansas before the solar eclipse reached totality above them. Norah O'Donnell and Tony Dokoupil anchored CBS News' special coverage as the total eclipse passed over Arkansas and Illinois.

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Look at the solar eclipse too long? Doctors explain signs of eye damage.

Did you look up at the solar eclipse without your  safety glasses ? Looking at the sun — even when it's partially covered like during  the eclipse on April 8  — can cause eye damage.

There is no safe dose of solar ultraviolet rays or infrared radiation, said  Dr. Yehia Hashad , an ophthalmologist, retinal specialist and the chief medical officer at eye health company Bausch + Lomb.

"A very small dose could cause harm to some people," he said. "That's why we say the partial eclipse could also be damaging. And that's why we protect our eyes with the partial as well as with the full sun."

But how do you know if you've hurt your vision? We asked eye doctors what to know.  Read more here .

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-11a9535b link copied

Watch: Total solar eclipse seen in Indianapolis

Around 50,000 people gathered in Indianapolis, Indiana, at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to experience the total solar eclipse. CBS News' Norah O'Donnell and Tony Dokoupil could see other planets in the solar system during the celestial event.

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When is the next eclipse?

After the April 8 total solar eclipse, the next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous United States will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Before that, there will be an annular solar eclipse on Oct. 2 of this year, according to NASA. It will be visible in parts of South America, with some parts only able to experience a partial eclipse. A partial eclipse will also be visible in parts of Antarctica, the Pacific Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean and North America.

There will be two partial solar eclipses next year, according to NASA . On March 29, 2025, a partial eclipse will be visible in parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, the Atlantic Ocean and the Arctic Ocean. On Sept. 21, 2025, there will be a partial eclipse in parts of Australia, Antarctica, the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean.

There will also be two solar eclipses in 2026, including a total solar eclipse. On Feb. 17 of that year, there will be an annular solar eclipse visible in parts of Antarctica, according to NASA. A partial eclipse will be visible that day in parts of Antarctica, Africa, South America, the Pacific Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean.

On Aug. 12, 2026, there will be a total solar eclipse visible in parts of Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small area of Portugal, according to NASA. A partial eclipse will be visible in parts of Europe, Africa, North America, the Atlantic Ocean, the Arctic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean.

Read more here.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-d6f43631 link copied

Watch: Total solar eclipse in Dallas, Texas

Thousands gathered in Dallas, Texas, to experience the total solar eclipse through a partly cloudy sky. CBS News' Omar Villafranca witnessed the event at the Cotton Bowl Stadium surrounded by young Americans experiencing the celestial event for the first time.

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Total eclipse puts on a brilliant show over western New York

Mid-afternoon daylight turned to dusk in seconds, and for a time even darker than that, over Niagara Falls as the moon directly blocked the sun for about three and a half minutes of totality. The temperature dropped as the sky darkened, with just a sliver of the sun's outer rim glowing and clearly visible before the eclipse shifted back to partial again.

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NASA debunks eclipse radiation myths

NASA said that over the years, people scared of eclipses have made up stories about the harm they can pose.

Several myths revolve around radiation. For instance, there's a false idea that radiation during a total solar eclipse will poison any food prepared during the eclipse.

Another common myth around the eclipse is the idea that the total solar eclipse produces harmful rays that can cause blindness, according to NASA. The space agency says that when the moon covers the sun during the eclipse, the corona emits electromagnetic radiation. That light is a million times fainter than the light of the sun itself and coronal light cannot cross 150 million kilometers of space, penetrate Earth's dense atmosphere and cause blindness.

Still, it's not safe to look at the solar eclipse without special glasses. Watching the sun during the eclipse before or after totality can cause retinal damage .  

People also falsely believe that pregnant individuals should not watch an eclipse. NASA says it's related to the false idea that harmful radiation is emitted during a total solar eclipse. 

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Will animals be affected by the solar eclipse?

Because total solar eclipses happen so infrequently, animal experts aren't sure how they'll be impacted as the skies darken. In 2017, giraffes ran in circles, flamingos huddled together and rhinos looked confused at the Nashville Zoo , the Associated Press reported. Researchers prepared to study the eclipse's impact on animal behavior at the Fort Worth Zoo in Texas.

Veterinarians say pet owners may notice brief periods of confusion and fear among dogs and cats during the eclipse. Some pets may start their nighttime routine earlier as the sky darkens for the eclipse, yawning and heading for their beds.

Some animals that depend more on the light-dark cycle, like birds, may be more affected because the sky will darken during the eclipse, said Dr. Katie Krebs, a veterinarian and professor at University of Pennsylvania's School of Veterinary Medicine.

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Eclipse arrives in Niagara Falls and Buffalo, New York

A crescent-shaped sun shone bright white as the moon began to cover it and transition into totality over Niagara Falls at around 2:45 p.m. EDT. Sudden bursts of cheering rang out from the growing sea of viewers donning eclipse glasses and tilting cameras upward at the ready, as the partial eclipse peeked through dark clouds in fleeting intervals.

Officials had in the weeks leading up to the eclipse said that Buffalo and its surrounding area, which includes the U.S. side of Niagara Falls, was preparing to host an estimated 1 million tourists for the celestial show.

But crowds were thin across the city, save for those that gathered in droves at the scenic state park, where some visitors said they had come as early as dawn to secure their spot and where New York Gov. Kathy Hochul joined hopeful skywatchers as the eclipse approached totality over the region.

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How long will the solar eclipse last?

Viewers at a spot along the path of totality will see a total eclipse lasting up to about 4 and a half minutes, with the length of time the sun is at least partially obscured lasting about 40 minutes.

The eclipse's path across the U.S. will dazzle viewers for about 3 and a half hours — from the time the eclipse comes into view along the U.S.-Mexico border near Eagle Pass, Texas, at 12:10 p.m. CT, until it exits into Canada from northern Maine at about 4:40 p.m. ET.

From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth over the Pacific to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the entire celestial show will last about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com .

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Illinois town in the path of totality hosts thousands of eclipse watchers

Southern Illinois expected about 200,000 people to pour in from all over to be in the path of totality for the solar eclipse. The city of Carbondale welcomed them with a block party featuring bands, food and drink on Sunday evening once the rain moved out.

Carbondale was also in the path of the 2017 total eclipse .

"Everybody talks about it being a miracle," said Scott Mitchner. "It is kind of a miracle. And it's a very amazing thing to see. And that first time, I know I'll never forget that. And I'm looking forward to a second time."

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Getting married during the eclipse

As the total solar eclipse moves reaches Russellville, Arkansas, more than 300 couples will weave their future together at a mass wedding. There, the total eclipse will last 4 minutes and 12 seconds, with totality occurring at 1:50 p.m. CT. 

Rodney Williams, a hot air balloonist from Branson, Missouri, is used to turning the skies into attractions. He organized the event as part of the city's "Total Eclipse of the Heart" festival.

The event offers marrying couples cake, a non-alcoholic toast and music — for free.

"Sometimes planning a wedding can be stressful," Williams said. "Not only the money but just all the decision-making and all of the different ideas that may not all coincide with each other."

Craig Wayne Boyd, a winner of "The Voice" singing contest, will officiate the ceremony and more than 600 newlyweds will have their first dance as he sings "Golden."

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Stunning photos of eclipse from Mexico and Texas

The total solar eclipse first made landfall along Mexico's Pacific coast before moving on to Texas, and photographers in both locations captured breathtaking images as the moon began to cover the sun.

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Biden: "Enjoy the eclipse. But play it safe."

The White House posted a short video of President Biden donning his eclipse glasses and encouraging Americans to enjoy the view. "But don't be silly, folks – play it safe and wear protective eyewear," the message said .

An eclipse is worth marveling at. But don't be silly, folks – play it safe and wear protective eyewear. pic.twitter.com/S6REAiZ735 — President Biden (@POTUS) April 8, 2024

Though Mr. Biden didn't mention it, his video prompted comparisons to a famous photo of then-President Trump standing on the same White House balcony during the 2017 eclipse and briefly looking up without protective glasses. 

Doctors say eclipse glasses are crucial to protect your eyes from sun damage.

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Check your eclipse glasses: Illinois Health Department warning of recall

The Illinois Department of Public Health is warning people to check their eclipse glasses after a recall. 

The recalled glasses were sold through Amazon as "Biniki Solar Eclipse Glasses AAS Approved 2024 – CE & ISO Certified Safe Shades for Direct Sun Viewing (6 Packs)." 

The recalled glasses are labeled as "EN ISO 12312-1:2022." Proper eclipse safety glasses should carry the ISO designation of 12312-2.

However, the glasses  were not listed on Amazon's official recall page  and were still available for sale on Monday. A spokesperson said that the glasses had previously been identified as not being sourced from a supplier approved by the American Astronomical Society, and any customers who had purchased them were notified and provided refunds.

Since then, those glasses have been added to the  American Astronomical Society's approved list , and remain available for purchase.

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How to safely watch the total solar eclipse

Millions of people across the U.S. are excited to see the eclipse, but it's important to do so safely. Looking at the sun — even when it's partially covered like during an eclipse — can cause eye damage.

There is no safe dose of solar ultraviolet rays or infrared radiation, says Dr. Yehia Hashad, an ophthalmologist, retinal specialist and the chief medical officer at eye health company Bausch + Lomb.

Special glasses  are needed for protection during eclipse viewing; regular sunglasses aren't enough, even if you stack more than one pair. A pinhole viewer is another safe viewing option.

Eye problems caused by looking at the eclipse without special glasses may not be apparent immediately, sometimes appearing one to a few days following the event. It could affect just one or both eyes. And while some will regain normal visual function, sometimes the damage is permanent. 

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What time will the eclipse reach peak totality?

Peak viewing time will depend on your location. The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean on Monday morning before reaching North America at about 10:57 a.m. PT, beginning in parts of Mexico. 

The path of totality — where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety, of course) — then crosses over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, arriving at Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT. 

It completes its journey across the U.S. at about 4:40 p.m. ET, passing over Caribou, Maine, and into Canada.

Here is a look at the expected times in 13 cities along the path of totality:  

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What are the different types of solar eclipses?

While the April 8 eclipse will be a total solar eclipse, there are actually several types of solar eclipses . They occur when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth, either partially or totally blocking the sun's light along its path..

During the April 8 total solar eclipse, the moon will completely block the light of the sun across parts of the U.S. , allowing people in the "path of totality" — the center of the moon's shadow — to experience a total eclipse.

The sun will have a crescent shape as the moon begins to cover it, then the sky will get dimmer as the moon covers more and more of the sun, until it eventually covers the full sun during several minutes of totality. During totality, viewers may see a corona, the outermost part of the sun's atmosphere.

An annular solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth when it is either at or near its farthest point from Earth, according to NASA. With the moon so far away, it won't completely cover the sun. During this type of eclipse, the moon will appear as a dark disk on top of the sun, with a bright ring around it.

A partial solar eclipse happens when the sun, moon and Earth are not perfectly aligned as the moon passes between the sun and Earth, NASA explains. Only part of the sun is covered by the moon during this type of eclipse, giving it a crescent shape.

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How many people live in the path of the eclipse?

An estimated 31.6 million people live in the path of totality for the April 8 eclipse. An additional 150 million people are within 200 miles of the path of totality, according to NASA, and millions more will be able to see a partial eclipse. 

That's more than were in the path of the last one to cross the U.S. , in 2017.

"This eclipse, in particular, is I think set to be even more spectacular," astronomer Lucianne Walkowicz told CBS Chicago.

"Totality will actually last almost a full two minutes longer in some places" compared to last time, she said.

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Will the weather be clear for eclipse viewing today?

Cloud cover and storms may interfere with eclipse viewing in Texas, where volatile weather is expected. For Dallas and Austin, "it's a tough go," says CBS New York weathercaster Lonnie Quinn, while San Antonio will have "some of the worst weather of all."

But farther north and east, better conditions are expected, giving many in the Midwest and Northeast a good chance to see the eclipse. Some clouds may move in and out over Missouri, Indiana and into western New York, says The Weather Channel meteorologist Jim Cantore. 

Quinn has more details on the forecast in the video below.

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How to know if your eclipse glasses are safe

The only glasses that should be used to look at a partially eclipsed sun are eclipse glasses that meet an international standard, ISO 12312-2, according to the American Optometric Association. 

Don't use sunglasses, smoked glass, an unfiltered telescope and magnifiers or polarized filters as a way to view the eclipse. Looking at an eclipse without proper protection can cause eye damage.

Real eclipse glasses  will have a notation about the international standard somewhere on their body, to verify that they reduce visible sunlight to a safe level, and block ultraviolet and infrared radiation.

Before buying, make sure the glasses are advertised as meeting this standard. And beware, there are many fakes on the market.

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How to make solar eclipse glasses, cereal box viewers and pinhole projectors to watch the eclipse safely

While solar eclipse glasses are available for sale, there are several safe alternatives you can make or find at home to help you enjoy the eclipse, experts say. 

If you have access, you can use No. 14 welder's glasses or aluminized mylar plastic sheets. You can also make a homemade pinhole projector using a piece of paper or create an eclipse viewer from a cereal box. Here are instructions.

Eye protection during the eclipse is important to prevent eye damage. Don't use normal sunglasses — they do not offer enough protection.

Read more here

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Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

See Today’s Total Solar Eclipse in Photos

C rowds gathered across the U.S. for today’s total solar eclipse, with viewing sites set up across the path of totality—including one along Niagara Falls State Park, a special “ eclipse flight ” traveling through the eclipse’s path, and a mass wedding that took place in Russellville, Ark. just minutes before totality .

 The eclipse passed through 15 states, entering the U.S. in Texas and exiting in Maine, and passing through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and parts of Tennessee and Michigan. Millions of people were expected to watch the event, which is the last time a total solar eclipse will be visible in the contiguous United States until 2044.

Here are photos of the eclipse—and some of its millions of viewers—from across the U.S.

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.