tips for travelling to canada

What Americans Need to Know Before Visiting Canada

Most important: You must have a passport or equivalent

In many ways, Canada is much like the United States, and historically, the two countries have been casual about crossing back and forth over the border, almost like we are one big happy family. 

But even though the U.S. and Canada maintain a healthy friendship, certain restrictions and differences in laws can affect a U.S. citizen visiting Canada. 

Before you head north , check out the nine things you should know about visiting Canada. In addition, get the lowdown on  Canada's top attractions , the cost of traveling , and common  myths and misconceptions .

You Must Have a Passport

All U.S. citizens arriving in Canada must have a valid passport or passport equivalent, such as a passport card or NEXUS card . Gone are the days of casual cross-border visits with only a driver's license; those disappeared after 9/11. There's some leniency when it comes to children coming to Canada. Travelers 15 years of age, or younger, need only present a birth certificate or certified copy to the border patrol.

You Can Bring Fido but Not Fresh Fruit

Be sure to educate yourself on what can and can't be brought over the border to Canada when you visit. For example, you can bring your pet (with proper documentation), but fresh fruit is a no-no. Take advantage of shopping for duty-free liquor and cigarettes at the duty-free stores, but you can only buy  limited amounts .

Canada is a popular hunting destination but be sure to read up on the country's laws regarding prohibited, restricted, and non-restricted guns and be sure you have all the proper paperwork.

You can take gifts into Canada, but anything valued at over $60 CAD is subject to duty and taxes.

Your U.S. Driver's License Is Valid

At first glance, driving in Canada looks the same as it does in the U.S., but dig a little deeper and you'll notice some differences.

The good news is, your U.S. driver's license is perfectly transferable to driving in Canada. However, you'll need to learn some of the other laws and conditions.

Speed limits are different in Canada and posted in metric, so kilometers, not miles, are used to indicate maximum speeds in any given area. Distracted driving laws are in effect in all Canadian provinces and territories , which means cell phones must be used hands-free when driving. Canada also makes it a no-no to smoke in a car if you have a minor (under 16 years old).​

Driving conditions in winter can be extremely hazardous. Have a charged cell phone and an emergency kit when you head out in snowy weather. If your car is not ready for winter driving, consider renting a car that is better equipped. 

U.S. Currency Is Not Accepted Everywhere

Though many border towns and large metropolitan areas will accept U.S. currency , it is not widely accepted in other parts of Canada, like smaller or more remote towns, where they only deal in Canadian currency. Tourist attractions and major malls will probably give you a reasonable exchange rate, while other businesses may just accept U.S. currency at par.

You Could Get Dinged With Cellphone Roaming Charges

Scott McLean

Your U.S. cellphone will work in Canada, but the charges will be astronomical if you don't let your carrier know you are heading out of the country and have them work out a texting and calling package for you while you're away. If you don't set up a special plan, turn off your cellular data in settings and only download email when you're hooked up to WiFi.

You Could Be Denied Entry

Canadians love their neighbors to the south and are a friendly lot, but they don't let just anyone across the border. Canadian Border Services Agency guards can get sticky when it comes to criminal records or suspicious behavior. You should be aware of what can get you denied entry ; that includes DUIs and improper identification or papers if you're traveling with minors who are not your own.

You'll Still Need Health Insurance

Canada does have an excellent universal health care system, but only for Canadians. If you are visiting Canada, you might want to purchase travel health insurance coverage for your stay, unless your health insurance provider covers you outside the U.S.

Legal Drinking Age Is 18 or 19

You may have to wait until 21 years old in the U.S.A., but make your way north and the legal drinking age goes down to 18 or 19-years-old in Canada , depending on the province. The drinking age also applies to the ability to buy liquor and beer, which in most parts of Canada is at specially designated liquor and beer stores, not in grocery or convenience stores. 

The Taxes Might Surprise You

Your restaurant or hotel bill might surprise you if you don't know that Canada adds a federal sales tax on all goods and services. Most other provinces also have their own tax, which means, depending on where you are in Canada, your bill could have up to an additional 15 percent tacked on. The tax refund program for visitors to Canada was dropped in 2007 , so the taxes you pay while you're in Canada stay in Canada.

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TRAVEL to CANADA – Tips and Information Guide (2024 Edition)

Everything you need to know about travel to Canada in our comprehensive 2024 Canada travel guide.

Have you ever wanted to see the Northern Lights? Or to explore the beautiful cities of Vancouver, Quebec or Calgary? What about venturing out into the world-renown national parks of British Columbia?

Unspoiled nature and incredibly vibrant urban areas create the perfect mixture of reasons to travel to Canada.

“The Great White North,” is a vast country that offers virtually unlimited opportunities for visitors of all kinds.

Whether searching for wildlife, landscapes, adventure activities or the culture of city life, travelling in Canada will give you a variety of experiences you are sure to remember.

There really is so much to do it can be overwhelming to plan to visit Canada. But getting started is not that difficult.

Read on to learn everything you need to plan for travel to Canada!

TRAVELLING IN CANADA: AT A GLANCE

Here are the basics of travel to Canada.

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN CANADA

With so much to see and do in Canada, it really is hard to pick the top experiences. We have written a comprehensive guide on the best things to do in Canada here.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Canada you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Check out Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the world’s most famous waterfalls and well worth a visit. Find yourself in awe watching the water tumble over the top of the falls. Or hop on a boat and cruise up to the falls from the river!

Read about all our favourite Niagara Falls attractions .

Explore the Canadian Rockies

From picturesque mountain peaks to stunningly blue glacial lakes, the Canadian Rockies in British Columbia have so much exploration to offer! This part of Canada could be a trip in itself!

Check out our ultimate guide to Hiking in Banff

View The Northern Lights

Witnessing northern lights is one of the most amazing natural phenomena. The city of Whitehorse in the Yukon territory might be a perfect place for it! Your chances are highest between September and April since the nights aren’t dark enough during the summer.

Check out the Northern Lights in Whitehorse , Yukon Territory.

See Polar Bears

Churchill in northern Manitoba is known as the ‘Polar Bear Capital of the World’, making it an obvious choice to visit for travellers wanting to get close to the planet’s largest apex land predator.

See polar bears in Churchill, one of Canada’s best wildlife experiences .

Drink the Sourtoe Cocktail

Taking a shot of alcohol with a frostbitten toe may not be on everyone’s bucket list. But if it’s on yours, you absolutely must try to Sourtoe Cocktail in Dawson City. It’s a strange, yet unique experience when you visit Canada.

Read more about the Sourtoe Cocktail and lots of other great things to do in Dawson City .

Other Things to do in Canada

Scale the CN Tower in Toronto. If you’re unafraid of heights, strap into a safety harness and walk around the top or just check out the views.

Visit Stanley Park in Vancouver. The world’s happiest city has much to offer . But most visitors start at this famous park downtown.

Take a drive on the Icefield Parkway. This incredible stretch of highway connects Banff and Jasper National Parks and is full of amazing landscapes and stunning wildlife!

Hang out with Polar Bears in Manitoba. View these dangerous, but remarkable, animals as they waltz around Churchill like they own the place.

Take a gondola ride in Banff. Situated in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff boasts unrivaled beauty best seen by way of the gondola.

Eat poutine . A strictly Canadian plate, poutine is french fries and cheese curds covered in gravy. Try varieties all across the country!

Take a flight over glaciers in Kluane National Park. The only way to beat the spectacular views of driving or hiking the Canadian Rockies is to check them out from above !

Tour La Citadelle de Québec in Quebec City . One of the most visited cathedrals in Canada, you will feel lost in the grandeur of this sacred place.

Ride the Rocky Mountaineer train . The most relaxing way to enjoy the Canadian Rockies is touring them on this train ride from Vancouver to Banff .

Eat lobster in the Maritimes. Lobster doesn’t get much fresher than that caught and served up in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.

Go dog sledding in the Yukon. Yes, there are humane ways to enjoy this absolutely incredible experience . Dress warm and enjoy the ride!

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN CANADA

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Canada. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay. 

Toronto is not only the largest city in Canada but also truly one of the most stunning cities in the world. It’s famous for its diversity and travelling here will be a great chance to learn about different cultures! The people are incredibly nice, the sights are beautiful.

Check out our Toronto City Guide.

Montréal is a fascinating mix of Europe and North America. It’s a definition of a vibrant city – full of festivals, museums and must-visit restaurants. There’s an abundance of things to do there. Brush up on your French before your trip!

Check out our Montreal City Guide.

Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the top places to live in the world. With picturesque scenery all around, tons of outdoor activities, numerous opportunities for wildlife encounters and many great day trips you absolutely have to add Vancouver to your Canada itinerary.

Check out our Vancouver City Guide.

Banff / Lake Louise

Lake Louise is one of Banff National Park ’s most famous sights. The extraordinarily turquoise water is a real feast for the eyes. Plus there is spectacular hiking, biking and even kayaking that you can do to further enjoy the beauty of the nature around. You can visit during the summer or spend your winter vacation here!

Check out our Banff City Guide .

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Canada, reference our following city travel guides: 

BEST CANADA TRAVEL ITINERARY

Canada is huge and there are so many amazing things to do there that planning an itinerary for your travel can be a little overwhelming. 

We’ve divided these itineraries into Eastern Canada and Western Canada options for both 1 or 2 weeks. Having at least 1 month to road trip across the entire country would be ideal.

But short of this, your best option will be to plan to visit each side of the country separately.

Of course, no one-size-fits-all plan will suffice. But if we were to head back to Canada these are the top places and things that we would want to do! 

1-Week Canada Travel Itinerary Highlights

Eastern canada 1-week itinerary.

• Fly into Toronto (2 days) / day trip to Niagara Falls
• Go to Ottawa (1 day)
• Go to Montreal (2 days)
• Go to Quebec City (2 days)
• Fly from Quebec City

Western Canada 1-week Itinerary (Road Trip)

• Fly into Calgary (1 day)
• Tour Canadian Rockies – Banff/Jasper/Yoho National Parks (3-4 days)
• Vancouver (3-4 days)
• Fly from Vancouver

2-Week Canada Travel Itinerary Highlights

This is an idea of how we’d spend 2 weeks in Canada. 

Eastern Canada Itinerary

• Fly into Toronto (3 days)
• Day trip to Niagara Falls
• Go to Ottawa (2 days)
• Go to Quebec City (3 days)
• Return to Toronto

Western Canada Itinerary (Road Trip)

• Fly into Calgary (1-2 days)
• Banff National Park (1-2 days)
• Jasper National Park (1-2 days)
• Yoho National Park / Glacier National Park (1 day)
• Revelstoke National Park (1 day)
• Stop in Revelstoke (1-2 days)
• Drive to Vancouver (4 days)
• Day trip (ferry) to Victoria on Vancouver Island
• Fly out of Vancouver

CANADA TRIP PLANNING

Best time to visit canada.

Since the country is so vast and diverse, there really isn’t a time of year unsuitable for travel to Canada.

Depending on what you want to do, you should pick the month of your trip accordingly.

Summer Travel (June – August)

The warmer summer months, such as July and August, are the most common times to visit Canada.

As in many countries in the northern hemisphere, summer in Canada is an ideal time of travel and adventure for many tourists. Expect to come across more tourists and higher prices during this time.

But don’t worry about the crowds and expense. Canada is beautiful during the summer!

It’s summer temperatures tend to not be as extreme as other summer destinations. Some parts of the country, particularly those further north and at higher elevations, will still see the snow melting well into June and July.

This is a great time to explore Canadian cities. But it is also the ideal time to visit any of the stunning national parks.

Winter Travel (December – February)

Winters in Canada can be very cold. But this is also a great time of year for winter activities, such as dog sledding , snowboarding/skiing and ice climbing.

But, keep in mind that some parts of the country deal with extremely uncomfortable temperatures.

For example, Winnipeg is Canada’s coldest city. Temperatures there can drop to -40°C at times!

Many of the places that are popular during the summer months are not as popular during the winter.

So if you would like to see parts of the country with fewer crowds than winter may be a great option for you.

Shoulder Season

The shoulder season in Canada is similar to other parts of the world. Spring and Fall tend to see less tourist traffic than the summer and winter months.

The months that are not very popular are April and November. They are often neither cold nor hot enough to enjoy certain activities.

However, the prices are much lower during this part of the year. So if you factor this into your planning, maybe this isn’t such a bad time to travel to Canada.

CANADA TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDELINE

Budgets for travelling in Canada can vary greatly. This depends on where you want to go, what you want to see and do, how you want to travel and the level of comfort you expect in your accommodations.

Canada is a highly developed country. As such many day-to-day expenses such as meals and accommodation can range in price greatly.

Here are a few ideas of what to expect in planning your budget to travel to Canada.

Budgeting Tips:

To make your money go further here are a few budgeting tips: 

• Take public transportation or walk whenever you can.
• For longer trips, look for rideshare options on places like Craigs List and travel forums and groups.
• Buy food at local markets and cook your own meals as often as possible.
• Look for free events and festivals to attend in the cities you visit
• Consider couch surfing from time to time. And camping should be on your list of things to do anyway
• Look for last-minute deals on accommodation, travel and activities.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

Note: Budgets shown as Single Traveller / Couples per day. 

Budget Traveller ($40-75 Single / $100+ Couples)

If you are a budget traveller visiting Canada on your own you will have quite a challenge to keep yourself within budget.

The most affordable accommodation, besides Couchsurfing, are hostels and Airbnb. But not all places you’ll want to travel will have these options.

If you’re on a tight budget then you probably won’t eat at restaurants on a regular basis.

Your best options might be fast-food restaurants and buying your own groceries and cooking when that is an option.

Canada has open-air markets and lots of chain grocery stores where you can buy groceries at affordable prices.

When it comes to public transportation, the prices are different in each area. But they’re not exactly cheap anywhere.

Daily city transportation can cost around USD$10 and single tickets are around USD$3.

Additionally, you will need to budget separately for the various activities that you would like to do.

For example, ski passes in winter can be pricey. And daily entrance fees to national parks are reasonable but will add up.

Mid-Range Traveller ($125 Single / $175 Couple)

If you are travelling to Canada with a mid-range budget then you have some flexibility in your plans that you wouldn’t have on a tighter budget.

The biggest changes will be in accommodation and meals. You’ll be able to stay in moderately priced hotels and eat most of your meals in proper restaurants (even if it’s only fast food).

You might also choose to rent a car from time to time or to upgrade on tour options to do an activity that might otherwise not be in the backpacker budget.

Couples travelling at this budget will save considerable expense by staying in hotels and Airbnb options instead of hostels. Transportation costs could also be reduced for couples choosing to rent a vehicle.

Luxury Traveller ($350+ Single / $450+ Couple)

If you can afford to travel with a little more luxury you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy yourself in Canada.

Large cities, as well as certain vacation destinations, have top-notch hotels and resorts. And you’ll find great stays in boutique lodging all throughout Canada.

You will also be able to afford to eat at the best restaurants and indulge in local delicacies and staples across the country.

Aside from more luxurious meals and accommodations, there are tons of things you can do when travelling in Canada with a more substantial budget.

You will be able to rent a vehicle or hire transportation around town. When travelling across the country you will be able to save time by flying.

Additionally, your choice in activities will expand to more unique experiences. From riding the Rocky Mountaineer train to flights through glacial ice fields , there is no shortage of experiences well worth the higher costs.

GETTING TO AND AROUND CANADA

Entry requirements.

Canada is relatively accessible for travel. Passport holders in 54 countries can visit Canada without obtaining a visa.

Canada will permit these travellers to stay in the country for up to six months.

Click here to see if your country is on that list. Others must obtain a temporary resident visa.

Travellers must also have an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).

When applying for the eTA , visitors have to provide certain biographical details and passport information. Also, you’ll be asked about your employment information, available funds and your health and immigration history.

Getting to Canada

Since it is one of the most developed Western countries, there are multiple ways to travel to Canada.

The choice is yours depending on your needs and origins.

But you may want to consider comfort, prices, duration of trip and preferred method of travel as you plan how to get to Canada.

Canada has around 20 major international airports. This makes flying to Canada the quickest, most convenient way to enter the country.

The biggest and busiest airport is the Toronto Pearson International Airport. Direct flights to Toronto are available from a lot of cities across the world.

But you will also find international flights in and out of most major cities across the country.

Regardless of whether you put a lot of time into planning your trip or make a last-minute decision to visit Canada, there are almost always reasonable flight options available.

Sometimes it might also be cheaper to fly into the USA and then drive to Canada. So take that option into consideration.

Personal/Rental Vehicle

Many people travel to Canada as part of a North American exploration. Or you may find a better flight deal into a major US city like Boston, New York City, Chicago or Seattle.

As such you may find yourself driving to Canada from the United States.

In many places, it is very easy to pass between the Canadian/US border to visit nearby places in both countries.

Popular places include the Seattle/Vancouver area, Niagara Falls and Montreal/Vermont.

Roads between the US and Canada are generally in excellent condition. They are also marked well so navigation between the two should not be difficult.

Depending on your country of origin, time of stay and purpose for visit, passing through border security by vehicle is often less of a hassle than when arriving by plane.

If crossing into Canada from the United States, do check with your car rental company to make sure that you are able to do so without violating the terms of your agreement.

You will also want to make sure that the vehicle is insured in both countries.

If you’re going to travel to Canada from the United States, you can also travel by bus. Certain cities, like Seattle, Boston, Albany, Detroit or New York, have direct routes and inexpensive fares.

Some well-known bus companies that make trips between the US and Canada include Greyhound, Megabus and Quick Coach.

If you like to travel by train, then travelling to Canada from the US on a train is a great option. This combines relatively low costs, reasonable duration and incredible scenery.

In travelling from the US into Canada train you have two company options. VIA Rail Canada and Amtrak each have three routes that cross various borders between the US and Canada.

Further, all routes start and end in major cities so you can quickly orient yourself to other transportation options upon arrival.

Ferries can be a unique way to see parts of both Canada and the US that are not usually explored by most travellers.

At the moment, there are five ferries that travel to Canada from the United States.

Two depart from Maine and go to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia and Deer Island, New Brunswick (Bay Ferries Limited, East Coast Ferries).

Another two travel from Alaska to Port Hardy and Prince Rupert, both in British Columbia (Alaska Marine Highway System, BC Ferries).

Finally, you can get to Victoria, British Columbia from Seattle (Victoria Clipper).

Getting Around Canada

It is pretty easy to get around when you are travelling in Canada. Expect to pay quite a bit more in Canada to travel between cities than in many less developed parts of the world.

And with higher costs, also expect longer durations in between destinations as distances in Canada can be great.

Travelling by Air

Travelling within Canada by air is the best way to cover ground quickly.

The county has many international and domestic airports. Sometimes, especially if you’re short on time, your best option is flying across the country.

In certain remote areas, there aren’t any other options besides air travel. When it comes to domestic flights, Air Canada has the best network of flights.

A few other companies include Air Creebec, Air St-Pierre, Pacific Coastal Airlines among others.

Travelling by Car

Rental cars are accessible and typically reasonably priced in more populated cities.

Much of Canada is best seen by rental car. There are many trips you can take to explore places considered off the beaten path for most.

Keep in mind that fuel prices can be high, particularly in less-trafficked regions of the country.

But a rental car would be a great way to explore the various cities in eastern Canada. It would also be the best way to get around the various national parks and other natural beauty in western Canada.

Travelling by Bus

In most cities, buses are the main form of public transportation. Toronto has the largest system, with around 140 bus lines.

Travelling by Taxi & Rideshare

Taxis are available everywhere in Canada. However, they are a very expensive way to travel.

You should ask the driver in advance what the price is going to be.

The prices are based on mileage and can’t be negotiated and are usually around USD$2 per kilometre.

In many of the larger cities you can also find rideshares such as Uber and Lyft.

These are often substantially more affordable than taxi. But note they are not always available outside of urban areas.

Travelling by Subway

Subway systems exist only in Toronto and Montréal. These systems cover the cities quite well. In Montréal, the subway network has 4 lines.

The daily tourist card costs USD$9 and a three-day pass costs USD$17. In Toronto, there are 3 subway lines available, and the daily pass costs USD$8.50.

In Vancouver they have the Skytrain network, which now connects the airport with downtown, making it very convenient to get around.

APPS AND TECHNOLOGY

Here are a few apps we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

• XE Currency – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around. 
• Express VPN – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in Canada. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel. 
• iOverlander – iOverlander is any Canadian road trip enthusiast’s best friend. Find every resource you need on the road – from free or cheap campgrounds to places to eat or refill RV supplies if travelling by campervan or RV.
• Gas Buddy – This app will help you find the most up-to-date fuel locations and prices when driving nearly anywhere in Canada. This is especially important to have when covering large distances or across remote parts of Canada.

BEST THINGS TO EAT IN CANADA

Some Canadian specialities are worldwide famous. While some require some research to discover!

Here are some of the most popular dishes in Canada:

• Poutine : Probably the most well-known Canadian staple consisting of french fries and cheese curds topped with light-brown gravy
• Lobster Rolls : a sandwich made with lobster meat, lemon, and seasoning best served fresh in Nova Scotia or New Brunswick
• Butter Tarts : crumbly crust filled with a butter, sugar and egg cream
• Nanaimo Bars : a sweet, crispy and crunchy dessert bar with layers of chocolate and custard
• Montreal Smoked Meat : Delicious pastrami or brisket smoked and seasoned in a way particular Montreal
• Bannock : delicious native bread either baked or fried and similar to nan. Bannock is served in a variety of ways and included in almost every meal.
• Yellow Split Pea Soup : soup made with dried peas, veggies and salt pork
• Montreal Bagels : smaller and denser than its famous NY bagel, but usually with the typical everything seasoning
• All-dressed Potato Chips : a name given to some of the fanciest and most interesting flavours you can imagine for potato chips
• Maple Syrup : The maple leaf is iconic of Canada and the syrup from the maple tree is just as famous and delicious and well worth a try as often as possible

PLACES TO STAY IN CANADA

Canada is not exactly known for cheap accommodation. A highly developed country, rates can be relatively similar to those in Europe and the United States.

However, the prices vary and with advanced planning, you should be able to find a reasonably priced room.

Types of Accommodations

There are over 100 hostels spread out through dozens of cities across Canada. Staying in hostels is not only accepted, it is expected among budget travellers.

You can expect prices and amenities to be comparable to those in Europe. But remember many of the smaller towns and villages will not have hostels as an option.

Canada offers an abundance of hotels. These are typically the best option for travelers in a mid-range budget and are available in most cities and small towns and villages across the country.

Of course, prices range by location and amenities. And if you are travelling during the busier summer season be sure to book in advance.

Another good option for budget accommodation in Canada is Airbnb. In recent years Airbnb has been growing and there are more and more amazing places popping up in Canada to stay for very affordable prices every day.

As is typical in many destinations where Airbnb accommodations are available, you’ll likely find great value and a little more personal space with an Airbnb stay. 

CANADA TRAVEL TIPS

Travel to Canada is more or less the same as travel to any country. But there are some subtle tips and tricks that will help make your visit safe, pleasant and more affordable.

GENERAL CANADA TRAVEL TIPS 

While there are many basic travel tips we suggest you use when travelling to Canada, there are also plenty of Canada-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be. 

Here are a few we recommend you consider as you plan your trip to visit Canada: 

• Pack (and dress) according to the weather. Depending on where and when you travel to Canada the weather can catch you off guard. From extreme heat to mind-boggling cold and everything in between, be sure to pack and wear what will keep you comfortable and safe.
• Have travel insurance. Canada has a fantastic health care system. But having travel insurance is always the best way to protect yourself financially from any mishaps on the road. Not sure you need it? Read this post .
• Be aware (and warned) of wildlife. Bear and moose look cute in pictures and videos. But they can be deadly in person. Canada abounds in wildlife so be mindful when you are out exploring.
• Know the emergency number. 911 is the same call for help in Canada as it is in the US. In some areas, 311 is also helpful for non-emergency situations.
• Tax and tipping are not included in meal prices. Know that tax will be added at the end of the meal and, while not required, tipping is customary at the 15-20% level.
• Pick up a little French. Depending on where you travel, it might be necessary. But you’ll find French is almost everywhere on signs and sometimes it will help to make local friends who can assist you in making the most of your trip to Canada.

CANADA PACKING LIST

We always travel with a core packing list wherever we go. And when it comes to Canada, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you. 

Check out our travel essentials and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below. 

Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads.

STAYING SAFE IN CANADA

Canada is a very safe country to visit. It has a very low crime rate and Canadian people are known for their hospitality and seem to always be willing to help someone in need.

Violent crime is basically non-existent in popular tourist spots.

Just like anywhere else in the world, there are some areas in big cities should be avoided. Ask the locals about those neighbourhoods so you can enjoy your trip in peace.

Also, take care of your personal belongings, since tourists are often victims of petty thefts.

Canada is also one of the safest countries for female travellers.

You shouldn’t have any problems if you’re travelling solo. Just keep in mind the same general safety tips you would use anywhere else in the world.

If you’re visiting the Canadian wilderness, watch out for the wild animals.

Every year tourists are attacked by bears, moose and bison. But this is usually due to not respecting the space of the animals and approaching too close to them.

Please mind the wildlife when you see it!

Your best option is to explore and area with someone familiar with it. But if that’s not possible, just be careful and study your maps, have bear spray, whistles and bells and know any regional laws or warnings when it comes to wildlife.

Check out our best travel tips to help you navigate around safely.

STAYING CONNECTED IN CANADA

Canada is a developed nation and staying connected while travelling in Canada is not very difficult. Of course, there are more remote places you can travel where cellular service will be limited.

And if you drive across the country you’ll experience long stretches of highway where you may have hit-or-miss cellular service.

In general, you can expect to connect to WiFi in a few ways for little to no cost. But we feel like your money will go a lot further if you consider a few other options. 

Purchase a SIM Card

Purchasing a SIM card is one of the best ways to access local wireless networks in most countries.

In Canada, you can purchase a SIM card in any of the country’s 3 major carrier stores and at convenience stores and kiosks in major cities. Apply funds for prepaid service and purchase data as you need.

Then throw up a hot spot from your mobile device if you’d like to get online with your computer or tablet.

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

Portable WiFi devices are also readily available across Canada. Roam Mobile, WiFi Cube and MyWebspot Mi-Fi are just a few of the handful of options to look into if you don’t have a qualifying portable WiFi device of your own.

Access Free WiFI

Of course, the easiest and cheapest option to stay connected in Canada is to access free WiFi at a variety of places across the country.

Most hotels, hostels and Airbnb accommodations offer free WiFi.

And if you are out and about you can expect fast food and coffee restaurants such as Tim Hortons, McDonald’s and Starbucks to provide free WiFi as well.

BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER IN CANADA

As is the case whenever you choose to visit and interact with people and places in a foreign land, Canada offers you the opportunity to be responsible in your journey.

Here are a few things to consider as you plan to travel to Canada:

• Leave the natural environment better than you found it. Pretty standard stuff here: pack out your trash, stick to the trails, pick up after yourself.
• Leave wild animals alone. Canada is full of wildlife encounters sure to change your life. But don’t touch, feed or otherwise harass wildlife.
• Be your own transportation as often as possible. Adding a bit of walking or biking to your travel plans reduces the impact of taking vehicles that contribute negatively to the environment.
• Support locals as often as possible. Sure the bigger cities will be full of big brands and mega shopping centres. But as you wander into more remote parts of the Great White North be sure to support smaller, independent businesses as often as possible – including merchants and tour operators.

BOOKS TO READ ABOUT CANADA

Maybe you already know everything about Canada. Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Canada. 

Canada (Mike Meyers) – Yes, Mike Meyers the comedian and actor has written a book that shows his take on his homeland from his hilarious, if not entirely quirky, perspective.

Alone Against the North (Adam Shoalt) – In a wild adventure that crowned him the “Canada’s Indiana Jones,” Shoalt embarks to explore the Again River in a way that shows that there are still parts of the world unexplored.

Why I Hate Canadians (Will Ferguson) – A humorous, satirical account of Canadian culture and history that sets out to show that opinions on Canada are best expressed through personal experience.

An Inconvenient Indian (Thomas King) – A serious, albeit darkly humorous, look at the Native American – White relationship that has taken place in Canada and throughout North America in search for ways for the collective culture to move forward in meaningful ways.

Read Our Canada Posts

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Visit Canada

Travel Tips

Some helpful tips about our great country

• WEATHER : Canada has 4 seasons, Winter, Spring, Summer & Fall. We are known for our dramatic changes in weather, we have it all from snowy and cold to sunny and hot. Make sure to check the weather and pack accordingly before your visit to Canada
• VISA : Before you even begin traveling in Canada, you need to successfully enter the country. Many nationalities need an eTa , Electronic Travel Authorization to gain entry into Canada. It’s inexpensive and must be purchased online prior to your arrival in the country.
• INSURANCE : No matter your country of origin, travel insurance is always imperative. Most insurance companies have an extra policy you can select if skiing and snowboarding are on the travel agenda. These fun, yet somewhat risky, winter activities are two very important reasons why you should purchase travel insurance before visiting Canada.
• WILDLIFE : Grizzly and black bears are found in Canadian parks in the summertime and can be potentially dangerous. When visiting National parks always ensure no food products are visible to bears. Dispose of garbage, use airtight containers for storage, and cook away from campsites. Get knowledgeable on bear safety too. If visiting Churchill and its polar bears, be extra vigilant as polar bears are the only animals to actively stalk humans.
• EMERGENCIES : It’s always important to know the phone number for emergencies in every country you visit. In Canada, it’s 911. For non-emergencies, visitors can call 311 in some areas, such as Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Halifax, and Winnipeg.
• DRIVING : Canada is a huge country and renting a car to explore at your free will is one of the best ways to visit. If you are a visitor in Ontario and wish to drive, you can do so for up to 90 days with a valid drivers licence from your own country, state or province. You will also need: To be at least 16 years old and have proper insurance coverage for the vehicle you will be driving. Across Canada, there are Wildlife Warning Signs reminding drivers to be cautious while driving. The country also has a Wildlife collision prevention program, which provides helpful hints to avoid hitting wildlife and what to do if striking an animal is inevitable. Reading up on safety tips could save your life. In the Rockies, there are unique animal overpasses to avoid such accidents.
• CASH : Canada is a vast country with many rural towns, islands, and campgrounds. It’s always worthwhile carrying some spare cash when traveling around the country, as you never know where the next ATM may be. However, in the bigger cities, it isn’t necessary as ATMs are prevalent.
• TIPPING : It might not save your life, but it’s important to know that tipping is expected in the hospitality, tourism, and services industries. The standard amount is between 15–20%. At most places, they bring an Eftpos machine to you, where you can easily select a dollar or percentage tip when paying with a card.
• SWIMMING : Canada has the world’s longest coastline so there’s a lot of places to swim in summer. It’s also home to many freshwater lakes. But remember to not enter the water unless you’re a confident swimmer. Be aware of the ocean’s strong currents, and don’t dive off head first into any of Canada’s rocky oceanside cliffs. Adult supervision of young swimmers is also paramount.
• CRIME : Petty crime is, unfortunately, found in most large cities around the world. Many thieves target tourist attractions and hotels, as they believe vacationers are easy targets. Handy tips include leaving your passport in the hotel safe and carrying a photocopy with you. It’s also helpful to try and keep luggage out of sight in cars and not to leave any valuables behind, even in a locked vehicle.

CANADIAN FACTS

• Canada has more surface area covered by lakes than any other country in the world
• Canada has the world’s longest coastline
• Canada has six time zones
• Dress and prepare for the weather conditions! Canada is known for some intense weather depending on the season
• Canada is home to some of the world’s most beautiful national parks. Be sure to check them out while visiting and be mindful of the wildlife, grizzly black bears are sometimes found during the summer season 
• When visiting Quebec remember, the bicycle remains the most popular form of transport during warm months. Visitors will be amazed by a huge amount of special bicycle lanes in the city
• The legal drinking age in Ontario is 19+
• 80 percent of the world’s maple syrup is produced in Canada
• Yonge Street in Toronto is the longest street in the world at 1896 Km
• The North American Beaver is the national animal of Canada

Canada Travel Guide

Your ultimate canada travel guide, with tips, ideas on things to do, and best things to see in canada. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Why Canada ? Full of natural beauty and plenty of activities for fans of the outdoors, Canada is a great vacation spot.

From skiing and snowboarding to kayaking and canoeing, to spotting grizzly bears and the Northern Lights, there are many things to see and do in Canada.

Add in metropolitan cities like Montreal with its shops and exciting nightlife, and Canada has something for everyone.

This Canada travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

To browse all our articles about Canada click here.

Popular City Guides

• Quebec City

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Canada

• Currency: The official currency is the Canadian Dollar and 1 Canadian Dollar is equal to 0.79 USD. American dollars are accepted in Canada, though change will be in Canadian Dollars.
• Power: Power voltage is 120V at 60 Hz.
• Entry:  To enter, you will need a U.S. passport valid for at least 6 months after your departure date.
• Getting Around : The best way to get around is by public transport or renting a car but beware, Italians are hairy drivers!
• Sales tax : The provincial sales tax for goods and services is set at 7 – 8%, plus GST which is set at 5% which can bring the tax up to 15% depending on the provinces. For more information click here
• The Capital City of Canada is Ottawa – See the Best Things to do in Ottawa.

Things to See and Do in Canada

• Whistler, BC  – Largest Ski Resort in the World, Hiking and Downhill Mountain biking,  Bobsledding ,  snowmobiling , outdoor fun.
• Our particular favourite is  snowboarding in Whistler or Lake Louise  
• Walking with Polar Bears in Manitoba.
• Kayaking the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick or Nova Scotia.
• Quebec City  is Canada’s most European destination and one of the oldest cities in North America established way back in 1608
• Aboriginal Experience – Canada’s First Nations People are welcoming and are a fascinating culture to visit. There are many chances to immerse in aboriginal culture in Canada.
• Niagara Falls – The Canadian side of Niagara Falls is an amazing destination with magnificent views, nightlife and lots of things to do.
• Icefields Parkway – One of the world’s most beautiful drives is from Banff to Jasper and not to be missed.
• Cabot Trail – Incredible scenic drive on the East Coast with whale watching, lobster fishing and awesome views.

Canada Travel Guides

• Best Things to do in Toronto
• Best Things to do in Alberta
• Epic Things to do in Ontario
• Beautiful Places in Alberta
• Nova Scotia Road Trip
• Drive the Dempster Highway
• Best British Columbia Road Trip
• Things to do in Winnipeg
• Best of New Brunswick
• Things to do in Prince Edward Island (PEI)

Accommodation

Budget: You can find a number of budget hotels and hostels for around 20-65 Canadian Dollars. Enjoy dorm-styled or private rooms, common areas, shared kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to city or scenic locations. 

Mid Range: For mid-range hotels, expect to pay 100 to 200 Canadian Dollars per night. Stay in hotels with private rooms, free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, complimentary breakfast, and a restaurant and bar.

High End: Upscale hotels will range from 230 to 500 Canadian Dollars, with the top hotels going up to over 1,000 Canadian Dollars per night. Take in the best with top-of-the-line hospitality and room service, upscale private guest rooms, spa services, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centers, fine dining, and more. Certain hotels near the water also provide kayak services.

• If you are starting your trip in Toronto check out our suggestions for where to stay in Toronto
• Read: Where to Stay in Vancouver and Where to Stay in Montreal
• Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

The food in Canada has a wide variety of influences, including French, English, Scottish, and First Nations cuisine.

Poutine (fries, gravy, and cheese curds) is a popular dish here, while Nova Scotian lobster rolls are another. If you’re looking for some snacks or desserts, try a Montreal bagel (a sweeter version of a New York bagel, usually topped with sesame or poppy seeds) or a butter tart (eggs, butter, and sugar baked in a pastry shell).

Canada has many great restaurants and cafes where you can try some Canadian food. Expect to pay around 65 Canadian Dollars for a day of food.

Canada’s national drink is the Bloody Caesar, it’s like a Bloody Mary but it is made with Clamato juice. Give it a try, you’ll love it.

The Best Ways to Get Around Canada

Getting to canada:.

The Toronto Pearson International Airport is the busiest airport in Canada and is just a 30-minute taxi ride to downtown or you can take the UpExpress leaving the airport every 15 minutes to downtown.

The Vancouver International Airport and the Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airports are two alternative options, especially when traveling to those cities.

You can check for the best flights to Canada on Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Canada is a massive country and if you want to get around from Province to Province, the best bet is to fly.

Trains are a fast way to get around, especially in larger cities but trains are more expensive in Canada compared to places like Europe and Asia.

If you want to go from Toronto to Vancouver at a more leisurely pace, take The Canadian, an 86-hour trip where you can enjoy beautiful scenic views, dine and sleep in a bed in your private cabin, and enjoy stops at Winnipeg, Edmonton , and Jasper.

Buses : Buses are a good way to get around. You can take the Greyhound or the Megabus and it is a cheap option to get from city to city.

Major cities have rapid transit and light rail systems to get you where you need to go quickly. A typical fare is 3.64 Canadian Dollars.

Taxis:   Taxis are an alternative way to get around. Prices typically start at 3.50- 4 Canadian Dollars and increase 2 Canadian Dollars per kilometer traveled. Uber and Lyft are widely used in major Canadian cities.

Car Rental:   To rent a car, you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Check for prices and availability here.

When to go To Canada

• Canada has four seasons and there is no bad time to visit Canada if you are prepared for the weather.
• Summer (June to August) is a good time for road trips , canoeing, hiking, and exploring cities.
• Winter (November to February) is great for skiing, ice skating, and winter carnivals .
• Spring (late March to May) can be unpredictable with a mix of snow, rain and warm sunshine and the same can be said for Autumn (September/October) although Autumn is usually dry.
• September through November is considered the best time to go to Canada, as peak tourism has ended (meaning fewer crowds and lower hotel prices) and there are many beautiful autumn leaves to see. However, for those going to Canada for winter sports, January to March is when the snow conditions are at their peak and is a great time for skiing or snowboarding. 

Where to Stay in Canada

Fairmont Lake Louise : Fairmont Lake Louise. I don’t know if there is another hotel in the world with a view like this. It’s worth the spurge to spend a night here when visiting Banff.

Ritz Carlton Toronto: The Ritz Carlton Toronto is in the heart of it all near the Entertainment District, Harborfront, and CN Tower. Pure Luxury in Canada’s Largest City

Prince George Hotel Halifax : Located in the heart of Halifax this grand hotel is pure luxury and within walking distance of everything.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor , and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

Canada Accommodation Guides

• Where to Stay in Toronto
• Where to Stay in Niagara Falls
• 24 Fantastic Things to do in Saint John New Brunswick
• Where to Stay in Vancouver – Best Hotels & Vacation Rentals By Area
• Things to do in Calgary, Alberta
• Where to Stay in Montreal
• Where to Stay in Nova Scotia
• 15 Best Things to do in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
• Where to Stay in Banff
• Things to do in Jasper
• 14 Things to do in Winnipeg – Plus Other Hidden Gems
• The Best Things to do in Toronto – A Guide to the Top Attractions

What to Pack for Canada

If you travel to cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal in the summer, it’s hot and you can dress as you would in any major metropolis around the world. For winter travel in Canada, expect extremely cold weather. Canada has winter, period.

If you are going to the Rocky Mountains, the North or East Coasts, it can be cool any time of year so pack in layers. Nights can get cool even in the middle of summer in all provinces.

• Hiking Boots: Keep your feet comfortable with a sturdy pair of hiking boots.
• Layers: Be prepared no matter the weather by bringing clothes with layers.
• Waterproof Coat: As it can rain, a waterproof coat is a good item to bring.
• For winter travel to Canada, check out our tips for how to survive the winter deep freeze.
• Dress in layers and be prepared for cool nights, (even in the summer and especially in the mountains.
• How to Pack for a winter vacation read – Travel Tips for Winter Packing

Canada Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Canada Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Canada click here.

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Ultimate Guide to Travel to Canada: Tips & Destinations

Zoe wallace.

• April 12, 2024
• 5 minute read

Canada, the second largest country in the world, offers an array of experiences across its vast and varied landscape.

From snow-capped mountains to dynamic cities, this guide covers essential travel information, must-visit spots, and unique activities for your Canadian adventure.

Explore the Great Outdoors

Canada is home to the world’s most scenic national parks , offering activities like hiking , skiing, and wildlife spotting.

Banff and Jasper in Alberta , renowned for their breathtaking mountain vistas, are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts​​.

During the summer, the Canadian Rockies become a playground for hikers , while winter transforms the area into a wonderland for skiing and snowboarding.

Embrace Canadian Culture

Toronto , known for its diversity, offers an array of museums and galleries, such as the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario ​.

Montreal, blending North American charm with European flair, is famous for its festivals and gastronomy​ .

Don’t miss Vancouver’s Cherry Blossom Festival in spring , a celebration of the city’s beautiful blossoms​​.

Seasonal Adventures

Canada’s seasons dramatically transform the landscape, offering unique experiences throughout the year.

• Summer: Ideal for wildlife spotting and attending numerous festivals like the Calgary Stampede and the Montreal Jazz Festival.
• Winter: Offers the thrill of winter sports, dog sledding in Yukon, and the chance to witness the magical northern lights​.

Must-Visit Destinations

• Toronto and Vancouver: These cities are gateways to Canada’s cultural diversity and natural beauty. Toronto is celebrated for its multicultural environment and iconic CN Tower, while Vancouver is loved for its scenic views and outdoor activities​)​.
• Canadian Rockies: A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, the Canadian Rockies offer breathtaking landscapes and activities, from hiking to skiing. Don’t miss the iconic Lake Louise in Banff National Park, with its turquoise waters and stunning surroundings​​.
• Quebec City: Step into a European fairytale in Quebec City. Its Old Town charms with cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and the majestic Château Frontenac.
• Niagara Falls: Experience the awe-inspiring power of Niagara Falls, one of the continent’s most visited attractions. Opt for a boat tour to get up close and feel the mist on your face.​

Travel Itineraries

Planning your trip can be overwhelming due to Canada’s size.

For a week-long visit, consider focusing on either Eastern Canada —exploring Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec City—or Western Canada , which includes Calgary, the Canadian Rockies, and Vancouver​​.

When to Visit

• Summer (June to August) is the most popular time to visit, with mild temperatures and numerous outdoor activities​.
• Winter (December to February) is ideal for experiencing Canada’s famous winter sports and festivals​.

Travel Budget

Your Canadian trip’s budget varies widely based on your activities and travel style.

On average, backpackers might spend between CAD 40-75 per day , while mid-range travellers could expect to spend CAD 100-150 per day .

Visa and Entry Requirements

Travelling to Canada requires some planning, especially regarding entry requirements.

Most travellers will need a valid passport , and depending on your country of origin, you might need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) or a visitor’s visa .

The ETA is a quick online process for residents of certain countries, offering five years of validity or until your passport expires.​

Tips for Travelers

Travelling to Canada is an adventure that promises a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and urban exploration.

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your journey:

• Plan According to the Season: Choose your travel dates based on what you want to experience: summer festivals or winter sports. Each season in Canada offers unique activities and sights​.
• Embrace Local Food and Drink: Canada’s culinary scene is diverse, from fresh Atlantic lobster to Alberta beef. Don’t miss out on local specialties and the country’s craft beer and wine​.
• Use Public Transport: Canada’s major cities have efficient public transportation systems. Using them can save time and money, especially in Vancouver and Toronto​.
• Pack for the Weather: Canada’s weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers, and be prepared for sudden changes, especially if you’re travelling through different regions​​.
• Learn Some French: While most of Canada is English-speaking, French is predominant in Quebec and parts of New Brunswick. Knowing basic French can enhance your experience in these areas​​.
• Take Advantage of Free Attractions: Many Canadian cities offer free attractions, like public parks and museums, with no admission fee on certain days—research ahead to save on your trip​.
• Consider a National Parks Pass : If you plan on visiting multiple national parks, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass can offer great value, allowing unlimited access for a year​​.
• Stay Connected: Consider purchasing a Canadian SIM card for your mobile device if you’re visiting from abroad. This can be more economical and convenient for staying in touch and navigating during your trip​.

Making the Most of Your Canadian Journey

Canada is a vast country, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and adventurous activities that cater to every type of traveler.

As you prepare for your trip, consider these tips as starting points for a deeper exploration of all Canada offers. Each region of Canada has its unique charm and character, waiting to be explored.

Whether you’re drawn to the allure of the northern lights, city life’s thrill, or the great outdoors’s tranquillity, Canada welcomes you with open arms.

Embrace the adventure, and let the beauty of Canada leave a lasting imprint on your heart.

Zoe Wallace is the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) and contributing Travel Author of Culture.org. She is a leading expert in recruitment and a renowned travel influencer who journeys across the globe, capturing and sharing her extraordinary experiences. She uses her expertise to help people land jobs and advance their careers. Aside from that, her vibrant visuals and engaging storytelling immerse her followers in diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes. Zoe's passion for exploration and commitment to responsible and sustainable traveling inspires many to embark on their own adventures and appreciate the world's myriad wonders.

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Made up of ten provinces and three territories, Canada is an enormous country for travelers to tackle. Stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific and deep into the Arctic, this vast nation is home to vibrant modern cities and large tracts of pristine wilderness.

When planning any trip to Canada , it’s important to not bite off more than you can chew. Because of the country’s sheer size, it’s better to focus on a single province or territory in order to get a thorough experience of what each region of Canada has to offer.

Alternatively, you could opt for a bit of city-hopping tour to get a sampling of the highlights, with Canada’s major cities all well-linked by flights with the country’s main airline Air Canada.

Whether you wish to gaze at the mighty Niagara Falls, hit the ski slopes in winter, or seek out wildlife along the west coast, there are a number of things to be aware of when planning your Canadian holiday.

Here is my ultimate beginner’s guide to travelling in Canada which will offer you helpful advice and planning tips for choosing your Canadian destinations and mapping out your itinerary.

A Beginner’s Guide to Travelling in Canada

Entering canada.

Canada graciously allows travelers from more than 50 nations to visit visa-free. Included on that list are citizens of Australia, United Kingdom, United States, Mexico, Japan, and much of Europe.

If coming by air, you’ll simply need to get an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA ) when traveling on a passport from one of the visa-exempt countries. Travelers on cruise ships or those traveling by road across Canada’s border with the United States do not have to obtain an eTA.

However this is for tourism purposes, so if you’re entering Canada for purposes other than travel, ie relocation, or having recently set up a business in Canada, it’s important to ensure you do have the relevent visa. 

If you’ve opened an LLC in Canada for instance, and you plan to work while in the country, you’ll need to make sure you’re covered under the requirements for work / business visas. 

Canadian Weather

Because Canada is so large, it should come as no surprise that the weather can vary greatly depending on the region and season.

While the coastal regions, especially coastal British Columbia, experience mild summers and winters, the interior of the country sees extreme weather . During the winter you can expect frigid temps and snowfall at least six months of the year in the interior, while this same region can see temps rise above 40 °F with humid conditions during summer.

Up in the northern reaches of Canada, permafrost and cold conditions can persist year-round, with the coldest temperature ever recorded being an impressive -81 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you’re traveling to Canada’s interior during winter, you’ll definitely need to pack appropriate warm clothing including boots, hats, and heavy jackets, and you may want to make sure your rental vehicle is equipped with snow tires or chains to deal with snow and ice if planning a winter road trip.

While summer may offer more ideal warm weather, you should still be aware of potential tornadoes, forest fires, and landslides after heavy rainfall depending on where you choose to travel.

Also keep in mind that long daylight hours during the summer months will allow you to pack in a lot more to your itinerary than in the very short days of winter.

Canadian Wildlife

A lot of travelers are lured to Canada for its wilderness and wildlife. The country’s vast boreal forest is said to be the largest pristine forest on earth, with a wide range of large mammals called the forests home.

In the Arctic regions, you have polar bears, musk ox, caribou, and Arctic fox, while the coasts are home to whales, seals, sea otters, walrus, and orcas.

Encounters with black and brown bears are common throughout the country, making it wise to always securely store food while camping and carrying bear spray when hiking through bear territory.

Most Canadian wildlife is harmless when viewed from a distance and treated with respect. Avoid approaching any animal too close and never feed wildlife.

You are more likely to get injured by wildlife during road collisions, so always pay attention to animal road crossing signs. I once came across a vehicle that had hit a large moose in Canada, and both the moose and the vehicle along with its driver suffered severe consequences from the collision.

Your chances of spotting wildlife are best around dawn and dusk when they are more active. Most animals are also usually best spotted outside of the winter months.

Some of Canada’s other iconic animals not yet mentioned include wolves, lynx, wolverines, beavers, mountain lions, deer, coyotes, and the unique white-colored black bears of coastal British Colombia known as Spirit Bears.

Getting Around in Canada

You’re likely to fly into either Toronto Pearson International Airport or Vancouver International Airport as these are two of the busiest Canadian international airports.

There are however several other international airports in places like Montreal, Calgary, Edmonton, and Ottawa. While a number of airlines service international flights to Canada, you are likely to use Air Canada for domestic flights.

Most major Canadian cities offer travellers decent public transport options, especially in cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver which are equipped with rapid transit systems. Alternatively, you can opt to rent a car if you’re looking to explore the national parks and wilderness areas outside of the cities.

Renting your own car is often the cheapest way to get around if you are planning a longer trip and wish to explore the more off the beaten path gems. Of course, you need to be prepared for driving in Canada, especially if travelling during the winter months.

Roads are generally well maintained but there are a number of gravel roads in remote areas and fuel stations may be few and far between in certain regions. Remember that traffic in Canada drives on the right hand side of the road.

When it comes to travelling great distances across the country, you can opt for Greyhound buses or trains if you wish to avoid air travel. Greyhound buses can take you all the way from Toronto to Vancouver or vise versa, as it travels along the Trans Canada Highway.

The government-run VIA Rail is a train service that offers up “The Canadian” rail journey which also runs between Toronto and Vancouver. The 4,500km trip takes 4 days and 3 nights, passing through a number of provinces and the Rocky Mountains.

Booking a Sleeper Plus Cabin or Prestige Cabin offers the most comfort during the train journey since you get a bed and private en suite bathroom.

Top Things to See and Do in Canada

Trying to cover everything to see and do in a country as big as Canada would be an impossible task, but there are some things to highlight which will help you narrow down where to focus your attention.

The fishing villages and calm seas of the east coast around Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island are known for their beauty, lighthouses, and delicious fresh seafood that includes lobsters, oysters, and mussels.

In Canada’s west, both British Columbia and Alberta are the best places to spot an abundance of wildlife. Vancouver Island is especially known for being a wildlife hotspot, with bears, wolves, eagles, mountain lions, and more calling the island home.

No trip to Canada is complete without seeing the impressive Niagara Falls , the Canadian side being the much better side to view the falls as opposed to the American side. Experience the falls from the various viewpoints, get a bird’s eye view with a helicopter ride over the falls, or get real close to the thundering power of the falls with a jetboat tour.

Foodies will want to check out Montreal which is considered to be Canada’s culinary capital, offering up more restaurants here than anywhere else in the country. Be sure to sample some poutine or maybe some pancakes and smoked bacon doused in maple syrup.

Ottawa is Canada’s capital and home to beautiful architecture that includes Parliament Hill and the 19 th  century Notre-Dame Cathedral. There are also numerous museums in the city and you can ice skate on the Rideau Canal in winter. You can enjoy even more winter sports by heading to the ski slopes of Whistler, Lake Louise, and Banff.

Another winter highlight is the chance to see the stunning natural phenomenon known as the aurora borealis or northern lights . The colourful night-time sky display is best seen in the Northwest Territories’ Yellowknife , which is regarded as North America’s “Aurora Capital”.

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Megan is an Australian Journalist and award-winning travel writer who has been blogging since 2007. Her husband Mike is the American naturalist and wildlife photographer behind  Waking Up Wild ; an online magazine dedicated to opening your eyes to the wonders of the wild & natural world.

Having visited 100+ countries across all seven continents, Megan’s travels focus on cultural immersion, authentic discovery and incredible journeys. She has a strong passion for ecotourism, and aims to promote responsible travel experiences.

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15 Things To Know Before Traveling To Canada

Thinking about going to Canada in the near future?

With bustling cities and wondrous national parks, why wouldn’t anyone want to take in everything this country has to offer!

Canada might share a border with the USA but in many ways Canada is very different from its neighbor.

So, before you plan your trip to Canada there are a few things you should know.

15 Things to Know Before Traveling to Canada

1. canada is a big country.

In fact, Canada is the second-largest country in the world, right after Russia.

So, when you do go to Canada, don’t expect to be able to cover most of the country in just a few weeks. Canada is huge and traveling from one city to the next means traveling long distances.

If you only have a limited amount of time you are better off choosing one or two provinces of Canada and focusing on all the things there are to see there.

Also keep in mind that Canadian cities are very spread out .

So when you are booking a hotel or other accommodation that seems to be close to the main sights or a bus or train station, double-check the distances.

And yes, a hotel in one of the suburbs might be much cheaper, but keep in mind that those suburbs often feel like a separate city with their own shopping malls, parks, supermarkets, etc.

Commuting from a suburb to the main sights can be a pain. And no, you definitely won’t be able to walk everywhere like you might have gotten used to in many European cities.

Just to emphasize how big Canada really is: the country spans 6 time zones!

Canada Fun Fact: Canada has the largest coastline in the world!

2. Be Prepared for Canada’s Weather

The most important packing tip for Canada: bring layers!

One of the important things to know before going to Canada is that even if you are visiting Canada in summer it can get chilly at night in the mountains.

And the weather just varies a lot from place to place .

The British Columbia Coast (Canada’s western coastline) has milder temperatures in winter but if you are anywhere else in Canada in winter, expect it to get cold… Very cold! Bring a warm woolen hat (Canadians call it a toque), thick gloves, and a scarf to wrap around your face.

Canada’s lowest recorded temperature was -81.4 degrees Fahrenheit (-63 C) in 1947!

Canada Fun Fact: In Newfoundland, Canada, the Atlantic Ocean sometimes freezes so people play hockey on it!

3. Canada Has Two Official Languages

A majority of Canadians speak English as their first language. But French, Canada’s second official language, is the mother tongue of about 20% of the Canadian population.

And with Canada being such a multicultural society you will find different levels of proficiency in those languages, many different accents, and numerous other languages spoken.

French is the dominant language in the province of Quebec . But, the Quebecois twang and slang is a world away from the Parisian French you may have learnt in school.

4. Tipping in Canada

Tipping in Canada is similar to tipping in the USA .

When you are receiving services from waiters, hairdressers, cab drivers, hotel employees, and others, you are expected to give a tip.

Although tipping isn’t mandatory, in most cases a tip in the range of 15% to 20% is the standard.

5. Be Prepared to Have Sales Tax Added to Your Bills

Canada adds a federal sales tax to all goods and services. And on top of that most provinces also have their own tax .

This means that, depending on where you are in Canada, your bill could come with up to about 15% taxes.

So when you buy something in a store, the price you see on the label is not the final price. But also expect these taxes to be added to your restaurant bills, hotel bills, etc.

Just like the Americans, Canadians love their promotions, sales, and special offers. Therefore always compare prices before you buy!

For example, gas prices can vary significantly from station to station and they change almost daily.

Note: There once was a tax refund program for visitors. This program, however, was dropped in 2007, so the taxes you pay while you’re in Canada stay in Canada.

6. Canadians are Polite

Canadians have a reputation for being polite. They generally behave very well in public and anything considered “disruptive” or “offensive” is frowned upon .

Cutting in line, making a scene, catcalling, loitering, littering, being drunk in public… just don’t do it anywhere, but definitely not in Canada!

Canadians are known for their tolerance and are very nonconfrontational. To some, they might come across as somewhat reserved and they will say sorry even if there is absolutely no need to apologize for anything!

7. You Can Expect Good Customer Service in Canada

Similar to the USA Canada is a consumer society and that does mean that the customer is normally king.

Most stores open seven days a week and close late at night. Restaurants cater to every possible diet and waiters tend to be friendly and attentive.

There are toll-free numbers to talk to customer service representatives and whatever service you need will usually work just fine.

8. Driving in Canada

Especially when you drive to Canada from the USA it’s good to know that speed limits are different in Canada. So before you start driving , check what the local speed limits are!

Like in most countries mobile phones must be used hands-free when driving and in Canada it is also illegal to smoke in a car if you are with a minor.

Driving conditions can get extremely hazardous in winter . Make sure you have a charged mobile phone and an emergency kit when you head out in snowy weather.

And if your car isn’t ready for winter driving, consider renting a car that is better equipped.

Canada Fun fact: Canada has fewer people in its entire country than Tokyo has in its metropolitan area!

9. You Will Need Health Insurance

Canada might be well known for its excellent healthcare system, but that’s only for Canadians.

If you get injured while visiting Canada and don’t have adequate health insurance you can be presented with huge medical bills.

So before you travel to Canada make sure you have travel insurance that covers any medical expenses in Canada!

10. The Legal Drinking Age in Canada is 18 or 19

Depending on the province, the legal drinking age in Canada is either 18 or 19.

The drinking age also applies to buying liquor and beer, which in most parts of Canada is at specially designated liquor and beer stores, not in grocery or convenience stores.

Because the legal drinking age in Canada is lower than in the USA you will find a lot of young Americans just across the border looking for a party.

11. Make Sure You Have The Right Travel Documents

Unless you are a US citizen you will normally need either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Canada. What you need depends on what passport you hold so make sure to check this long before your travel date.

The ETA is mandatory for all visa-free nationals except Americans. You will need to get this before you board your flight to Canada.

Getting your ETA is a simple online process though which takes only a few minutes to complete.

And if you are going to Canada overland from the USA, check this website about Canada-US border crossing requirements .

12. Emergency Information

Hopefully you won’t need this, but it’s definitely one of the things to know before going to Canada.

The phone number for contacting emergency services, including the police, medical services, and firefighters in Canada is 911 .

13. Kilometers, Celsius, and Liters

Unlike neighboring USA, Canadians use the metric system. Well, in theory.

In practice, it’s a bit of a mix. Distance and speed you will see posted in kilometers, but if you ask a Canadian how tall he is he’ll answer in feet and inches. And his weight, if he’ll tell you, will be in pounds.

For the weather Canadians use Celsius but when it comes to baking they tend to switch to Fahrenheit.

And if you are driving and need to stop for gas, keep in mind that the prices are per liter, not per gallon.

Also Read: Tips for Driving Abroad for the First Time

14. Tim Hortons Is a Must-Visit

Tim Hortons is an institution in Canada and you simply can’t miss it. That is, because it’s everywhere!

Nearly every town in Canada, no matter how small, has a Tim Hortons. It’s a coffee, sandwich and donut shop chain, named after a hockey player.

If you are looking for a cheap coffee or a snack, go to your nearest ‘Timmies’ and skip the Starbucks!

Canadians either love or hate Tim Hortons but as a traveler stop there at least once to form your own opinion.

15. Explore Canada’s Nature!

Yes, Canada has cool, modern and popular cities such as Toronto , Vancouver, and Montreal. With lots of culture, good food and plenty of things to do they make for good destinations, but Canada’s true beauty is outside of its cities.

Because of Canada’s size and relatively small population, most of the country is wild and unspoilt.

Canada Fun fact: Canada has more lakes than the rest of the world’s lakes combined.

There are huge areas of pristine, unspoiled wilderness waiting to be explored when you go to Canada.

Whether it is tramping across a glacier in the Rocky Mountains, hiking through coastal rainforests on Vancouver island or canoeing through Ontario’s lakes – Canada’s great outdoors can’t be missed!

If you love outdoor sports such as hiking, camping, canoeing, skiing, fishing, bird watching, etc. you will be in your element in Canada.

Also Read: The Best Outdoor Activities in Toronto

Canada has so many national parks that offer great activities and incredible views. So at least try to fit in one or two of them when traveling to Canada!

Also Read: Places to See in Banff National Park, Canada’s Oldest National Park

And there you have it, 15 useful things to know before traveling to Canada.

I hope you enjoy your time in Canada and get to see as much as you can of this large and beautiful country!

• What Not to Miss When Visiting Nova Scotia, Canada
• 2 Days in Quebec City – A Complete Itinerary
• Things to Do Outdoors in Toronto
• The Ultimate Bucket List – 14 Once in a Lifetime Destinations

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8 thoughts on “15 Things To Know Before Traveling To Canada”

I love Canada, I hope to go to Canada soon

Do I need special permissions to travel to canada

Hi John, that depends on what country’s passport you hold and how you are traveling. If you’re flying to Canada, most likely you will only need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which is a visa waiver you can simply apply for online. You can find more information on Canada’s official website here: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta/facts.html

If you are a US citizen you are exempt from the eTA requirements and just need to carry proper id.

After reading this article, I can boldly say Canada is arguably the best country in the world. Scenery, politeness, education, healthcare, security or safety, peacefulness, etc. I need to visit Canada. Kudos to you guys!!!

Looking for a great place to vacation for my 53 third birthday. Niagara falls is my dream come destination. My birthday is June 7, . I’m ready to get out and enjoy myself. Thanks

I love this. As a Canadian who’s travelled abroad, this covered the things I was confused about in other countries (namely backpacking through Europe 12 years ago) … and our politeness level literally changes depending on the city, too! 😂 we’re flexible like that 😝

Hi Sanne, it’s a helpful article about Canada thank you for your effort. And I really like Tim Hortons 😀

Please add one more item. No guns allowed to take with you across the border into Canada!

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Canada Trip Planner: Planning a trip to Canada in 10 easy steps

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Planning a trip to Canada? We got you covered! From cosmopolitan cities to breathtaking landscapes, Canada has something to offer visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, there’s a perfect destination in Canada waiting for you. In this Canada trip planner, we have included a detailed guide with insights on sightseeing, budget, seasons, and packing. 

Planning a trip to Canada: The Ultimate Canada Trip Planner

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

With a lot to offer, planning a trip to Canada can be exciting but can also cause confusion if you are not prepared. By doing some research beforehand, you can make sure your trip is everything you hoped for and more!

So in a nutshell, the first step is to decide what cities and/or national parks you would like to visit and what attractions you would like to see. Once that is sorted out, you can get your visa and make travel arrangements. 

Finally, be sure to pack appropriately for the weather conditions in Canada. 

Step 1: Choose where to go in Canada

• Step 2: Pick a month/season to visit Canada

Step 3: Set a budget for your Canadian getaway

• Step 4: Finalise your Canada itinerary
• Step 5: Apply for tourist visa or any documents  
• Step 6: Book hotels/accommodation 
• Step 7: Book tours, permits, etc
• Step 8: Get travel insurance
• Step 9: Pack your bags
• Step 10: Arrive! 

In the Canada travel guide below, we will cover all the basic information plus insider tips to get you trip ready. You will also find a step-by-step guide in the following sections to help you book everything with ease (including packing your bags right!)

Canada: Country information

Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. It is the world’s second-largest country by total area, and its capital city is Ottawa. Canada’s economy is the tenth-largest in the world, and its currency is the Canadian dollar.

• Capital city: Ottawa ( Ontario )
• Currency : Canadian dollars (CAD$)
• Dialing code : +1
• Population : 38 million (2020)
• Provinces : Canada is made up of 10 provinces and 3 territories
• Regions : Atlantic Provinces, Central Canada, Prairie Provinces, West Coast, and the Northern Territories (5 regions)
• Languages : English and French (Canada has two official languages, but English is widely spoken)

Read: More interesting facts about Canada

Getting to Canada: Transportation and visa information

The most common way to get to Canada is by air, and there are a number of airports that you can fly into. The busiest airport in Canada is Toronto Pearson International Airport, followed by Vancouver International Airport and Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport.

There are a number of different Canadian airlines that offer flights to Canada, including Air Canada, WestJet, and international carriers (such as United Airlines, Lufthansa, British Airways, KLM, TAP Portugal, etc). 

It is important to book your flight well in advance, as flights can sell out during peak travel periods. For travel within Canada, you can opt for budget airlines like Swoop or Flair – they connect you to major cities for an affordable price (baggage fees are extra). 

When traveling from the US, you can take advantage of the land border crossings in places like Toronto/Kitchener ( Ontario ), or in Vancouver ( British Columbia ). 

Getting a tourist visa to Canada

Before you can enter the country, you (non-visa-exempt countries) will need to get a visa from the Canadian embassy in your home country. This can take some time to process, so apply as soon as possible and confirm that it is in order before your trip begins.

When applying for a visa, you will need to provide specific information such as your name, date of birth, passport number, and place of residence. You will also need to provide a reason for traveling to Canada, such as tourism, business, or study.

Other documents such as financial information, employment records, and your trip itinerary are required. Don’t forget to add travel insurance to this list. 

It is important to note that the requirements for getting a visa can vary depending on your country of citizenship.

For US passport holders and other visa-exempt nationals, you do not have to apply for a visa. Instead, you will have to apply for an electronic Travel Authorization (known as an eTA) for your trip to Canada. 

It costs $7 CAD (you can find more information here ). This is also required if you are transiting through a Canadian airport. 

What to budget for a trip to Canada?  

Canada is a great destination for those looking to experience unique landscapes and indulge in outdoor activities, but it is not a budget getaway. 

When traveling from the US, the prices of accommodation , food, and car rental may not make a huge difference, but when visiting the Great White North from some of the European, Asian, or African countries, Canada may seem very expensive. 

But it is possible to stick to a budget by planning your itinerary well, and timing your visit (peak season vs low season). 

Plus there are many affordable accommodation options and restaurants available, and many attractions can be enjoyed free of charge like provincial parks. 

Some tips for experiencing Canada on a budget include:

• staying in hostels or camping grounds
• eating at fast food restaurants, or buying groceries
• visiting attractions that are free of charge, along with paid sites
• using public transportation can save money instead of renting a car. But for this you need to stick to a few cities, or just explore a city with a few day trips

Typically prices include: 

• Hostels: Starts at $30 CAD
• Motels: Starts at $65 CAD
• Hotels: Starts at $110 CAD

• Single bus ticket: $2.75 CAD+
• Daily bus passes: $7.50 CAD+
• Car rental: $25 CAD/ day

• Coffee: $2 CAD
• Lunch (fast food): $10 CAD+
• Lunch (restaurant): $20 CAD+

Note : Prices that you see listed in menus and store items are the base price, and upon check out provincial and federal taxes are added, as applicable. 

For mid-budget travelers: 

We recommend a daily budget of $150-$175 CAD for exploring cities. 

This includes a 3 to 4-star hotel on a twin share basis ($75) and lunch and dinner at a sit-down restaurant – a meal with a drink ($15 to $30). 

Transportation (daily passes $8), and car rental (daily starts $25) will be additional.

• 3 to 4-star hotel on a twin share basis ($150/2= $75)
• Lunch and dinner at a sit-down restaurant – a meal with a drink ($15 to $30)
• Transportation (daily passes $8), car rental (daily starts $25)
• Walking tours, museum passes, etc ($10 – $50)

**Flights are not included.

For national parks, you must pay entrance fees to enter. This starts at $20 CAD for cars. A daily pass is valid for 24 hours or the next day at 4:00 p.m. 

Once you’ve gotten inside the park, check out lakes, go on hikes, and admire the scenery for free. However, there are extra costs associated with additional sightseeing (like gondola rides or guided tours). 

Toll fares are not very common in Canada. But parking fees apply in parks and cities. Many hotels in downtown areas will include valet and parking fees of $25 CAD and above. 

Accommodation near airports and some apartment hotels may include free parking and breakfast. 

When is the best time to visit Canada?

Canada experiences 4 distinct seasons. They are

• Spring: March to May
• Summer: June to August
• Fall: September to November
• Winter: December to February

The best time to visit Canada varies depending on what you want to do. If you want to see the snow and indulge in winter activities like skiing, ice skating, then December through February is the best time to go. 

However, if you want to enjoy the outdoors, go camping and explore Canada’s natural attractions, the summer months from May to September are the best time to visit.

Summers and early fall are peak tourist seasons in Canada, so expect accommodation prices in national parks to be high/expensive and crowds everywhere. When planning to camp, ensure you book a reservation ahead of time, online by April. 

Our personal favorite time to explore Canada is in the fall (especially right after Labour Day – or after the first week of September). 

During this time, days are still warmer and it’s nice outside. The school year starts in September, so you can expect fewer crowds!

Canada is a beautiful country to visit during the winter months. And after summers, this is the next peak season. 

In the winters, you can enjoy skiing, ice skating in a natural rink, and other activities. There are many ski resorts located in the mountains, and the scenery is breathtaking. 

If you’re interested in skiing or snowboarding, be sure to book your trip in advance. The resorts can be quite busy during the winter months.

Another popular activity in Canada during the winter is ice fishing. Ice fishing can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to dress warmly and be aware of the dangers involved. A permit is also required for this activity. 

And not to forget Christmas markets and festivals, shows, and seasonal menus delight everyone during the winter in Canada . 

If you are visiting Canada during the winter months, be sure to research the weather conditions in the area you will be visiting. Some areas of Canada can be colder than others.

What to see in Canada? Canada travel destinations for your bucket list

When planning a trip to Canada, you need to understand that the country is huge, and each province and territory is different with its unique culture and landscape. But rest assured you will find something to suit your personal travel style and interests!

If you’re interested in nature and outdoor activities, some good places to visit include the Rocky Mountains, Niagara Falls, Jasper, and Banff National Park along with Lake Louise.

Canada is home to many UNESCO World Heritage site complexes, as well as many national historic site and related landmarks. 

If you’re interested in historical sites, some good places to visit include Quebec City, Montreal, and Toronto in central or eastern Canada. 

And if you’re interested in shopping and nightlife, some good places to visit include Vancouver and Calgary in western Canada.

Toronto: Toronto is one of the popular Canadian destinations. It is known for its towering skyscrapers and diverse culture.

There are plenty of things to do in Toronto, from visiting the CN Tower to exploring the Eaton Centre, enjoying the harbourfront and world-class museums and galleries including the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario.

From Toronto, you can also check off the stunning Niagara Falls and enjoy ice wine and vineyards in the Niagara-On-The-Lake region. 

Quebec City: Quebec City is famous for its European charm, and is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a romantic getaway. It is one of the oldest cities in North America and is known for its beautiful architecture and historical landmarks, including the Chateau Frontenac.

Montreal: Montreal , located in the province of Quebec , is the second-largest city in Canada and can be a great destination for tourists. The city is predominantly French-speaking, so it can be a good idea to brush up on your French before visiting. 

Montreal is home to a variety of attractions, including the Notre Dame Basilica, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, and Mount Royal Park. The city also has lively nightlife and is home to many restaurants and bars.

Vancouver:   As the largest city in British Columbia , Vancouver is a popular destination for tourists. There are a number of things to see and do in the city, including Stanley Park, Granville Island, and Gastown. It is known for its stunning scenery, and is a great place to go hiking or skiing in the nearby resort town of Whistler! 

Vancouver is a major center for business and finance as well. The city has a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxurious ones.

On the west coast, you can also visit places like the Sunshine Coast, Pacific Rim National Park, and the beautiful city of Victoria on Vancouver Island. 

Banff National Park: Banff National Park is a beautiful park located in the Canadian Rockies in Alberta . The park is home to a number of different wildlife species, including bears, deer, and elk. There are also a number of different hiking trails in Banff , which offer hikers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. 

Banff is a great place to visit during all four seasons. In the winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and dog sledding. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and camping. 

Churchill Manitoba : Churchill Manitoba is a small town located in the north of Canada. The town is known for its polar bears, which can be seen walking through the town during the winter months.

There are a number of different tour companies in Churchill that offer tours of the town and its surrounding areas. The park can be reached by train or by plane (with no road access!). This is a must-add to your Canada bucket list!

Cape Breton Island: Cape Breton is located on the eastern coast of the country (in the province of Nova Scotia), and is known for its beautiful scenery and friendly people. It is a great place to visit during the summer when the weather is warm and the days are long. There are a number of things to do in the area, including hiking, biking, and swimming.

St. John’s : St. John’s is the capital city of the province of Newfoundland. It is also home to many beautiful parks and gardens as well as many art galleries.  The most popular museum in the city is The Rooms, which offers exhibits on Newfoundland culture and history.

Other popular museums in the city include The Johnson Geo Centre, Railway Coastal Museum, and Newfoundland Museum. 

Charlottetown: Charlottetown is the capital city of Prince Edward Island. The city is the largest in the province and is the home of the Confederation Centre of the Arts, which is a major tourist attraction. The city also has a number of other historical sites, including Government House and Beaconsfield Historic House.

Yukon: The Yukon is a territory in northwest Canada. Its capital and largest city is Whitehorse. The Yukon is home to many amazing natural attractions, including glaciers, mountains, forests, and rivers. There are also many historic sites in the territory, including Dawson City, which was once the capital of the Yukon gold rush.

This is one of the offbeat places to visit in Canada and is a great place to explore the outdoors. There are many activities available for visitors, including hiking, camping, fishing, skiing, snowmobiling, and chasing northern lights!

Create your Canada travel itinerary

The best way to make the most of your time in Canada is to create an itinerary. This will allow you to plan out your days and ensure that you see all the attractions you want to visit.

Here is an example of a five-day itinerary for Toronto and nearby areas

Day 1: Arrive in Toronto and explore the city center

Day 2: Visit the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the Hockey Hall of Fame

Day 3: Take a day trip to Niagara Falls

Day 4 : Visit the Royal Ontario Museum and Casa Loma

Day 5: Spend time exploring the neighborhoods of Toronto

We have a detailed guide to Canada itinerary samples here , ranging from 7 to 14 days. 

Keep in mind, Canada is huge, and connecting from one province to another will take a lot of time by road unless you are flying.

When you plan your trip, choose cities and nearby small towns and national/provincial parks for a wholesome experience of culture and nature!

To create your own itinerary, 

• start by choosing the cities and parks you want to visit. 
• once you have that sorted out, use Google maps and check the distance. Start with the nearest or the biggest airport. Like if you are planning to visit Banff National Park, opt to fly to Calgary , and then drive to Banff town , stay there for the duration of your trip, and then visit the various lakes (read our 10 day Canadian Rockies itinerary )
• research the attractions and activities available in each destination, and make a list

Be sure to take into account the distance between different places, weather conditions and pack accordingly. You will also need to book accommodation, tours, and any permits required for your trip! 

Canada road trip planner

If you’re looking for a fun and adventurous way to see Canada, consider taking a road trip. There are many different routes you can take, and each one offers its own unique set of attractions.

The Trans-Canada Highway is a great option if you want to see the entire country. This route travels from coast to coast and offers beautiful views of the Canadian landscape. The Rocky Mountains are a particularly popular attraction on this route.

If you’re interested in exploring more rural areas of Canada, consider taking the Alaska Highway. This route runs through some of the country’s most remote regions and offers stunning views of glaciers and mountains. Or drive through the three Prairie provinces!

No matter which route you choose, be sure to plan your trip in advance. Here is our Canada road trip planning guide with sample routes! 

Tips about driving in Canada

If you’re planning to drive in Canada, you’ll need a valid driver’s license and auto insurance. You must have it with you whenever you’re driving. 

If you plan to use a foreign driver’s license in Canada, you should get an International Driving Permit (IDP) in your home country. You can’t use a driver’s license from a different country, except for a few exceptions. Like the USA.

A driver’s license and insurance from the United States are also valid in Canada for a short while (up to 90 days in some provinces). 

Individual driving laws vary from province to province in Canada. But everywhere you will find road signs in English and French (and French only in Quebec), and directions and speed limits are clearly posted. 

We drive on the right side of the road.

Car rental in Canada : In addition to a valid driver’s license, you’ll also need to carry your passport with you at all times. Auto or car insurance is also required to rent a vehicle and drive in Canada.

It is important to note that to rent a car in Canada, you must be at least 21 years of age, except in Saskatchewan and/or Quebec, where it is 18.

Car rental fees can also be expensive, so do budget for that when planning your trip. A sedan starts at $25-28 CAD per day plus insurance and other add-ons.

For car rentals, you can use Expedia.ca to reserve a vehicle.

Winter driving across Canada: If you’re not comfortable driving in winter conditions, you may want to consider renting a car with four-wheel drive. Many Canadian roads are closed during the winter months due to heavy snowfall, so it’s important to be prepared for adverse weather conditions.

Do check the weather conditions for your destination in Canada before starting your trip. Always keep your cell phone fully charged with emergency numbers saved in. 

Also pack an emergency kit with snacks, a flashlight, and a warm jacket or blanket with you. It is a good idea to have emergency roadside assistance services (like those from AMA and CAA). 

Read: How to plan a road trip in Canada

Booking your accommodation, tours and other permits

When planning a trip to Canada, it is important to book your accommodation in advance. There are a number of different types of accommodation available in Canada, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and camping.

If you’re looking for a hotel in a major city like Toronto or Vancouver, be prepared to pay a high price. However, there are also a number of budget-friendly options available. 

Motels can be a good option if you’re looking for something cheap and close to the city center. Bed and breakfasts can also be a good option if you’re looking for a more homey atmosphere. These cities also have approved Airbnb accommodations for short and long term stays!

We use Booking.com to book our hotels and other accommodation. They have detailed reviews that help us to make an informed decision when it comes to booking our stays. 

If you’re interested in camping, Canada has many beautiful camping spots located in national parks. To get the most out of your camping experience, be sure to book in advance and check that the campsite you choose can accommodate your specific needs. 

Do reserve your campsites and RV parking spots ahead of time. 

Lastly, we recommend using GetYourGuide to book your tours and attractions passes. They are our absolute favorite travel partner and they also have a generous cancellation policy!

What to pack for Canada? Canada Packing List

When packing for Canada it is important to bring the right kind of clothes for both warm and cold months. Read our detailed guide to what to wear in Canada here

Here’s a quick list of things to pack for Canada , from clothing, electronics to documents

• Pack a few tops, blouses and skirts for the duration of your trip
• Dresses are great for summer and late spring and early fall months
• Add bottoms like a nice pair of jeans or trousers. Wear shorts for hikes, and summer sightseeing
• Bring warm leggings and thermal tops (long john) for winter
• Lightweight jackets with waterproof material and rain gear 
• Sweater, fleece jacket or cardigan is a must add all year round
• Pack a warm parka or wool coat (good for cities) for winters
• Plus snow pants
• Add winter accessories like toques , scarves , gloves as it gets very cold when it is snowing
• Carry swimwear to enjoy our Nordic spa, or hot springs in the summer months 
• In terms of footwear, pack sandals and comfortable walking shoes for the summer months
• Add hiking boots for exploring Canada’s many attractions such as nature parks and historical sites such as castles and forts
• In the winters, don’t forget to bring your warm boots with a solid outsole and insulation to withstand cold temperatures upto – 30 degrees Celsius. Plus socks

Electronics:

• Adapter: Canada uses two associated plug types – A and B. Plug type A has two flat parallel pins and B has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. It also operates on a 120V supply voltage and 60Hz. So when traveling from the UK, EU or India, you will need to use a convertor and adapter duo to charge electronics in Canada. 
• Bring your cellphone, charging cables , and power bank
• Camera gear: We carry our Sony a6000 and Sony a7III on all of our trips! Don’t forget to pack yours!
• Tourist visa and eTA: Remember to apply for your tourist visa and/or an Electronic travel authorization (ETA) prior to arriving here
• Travel Insurance: For your visa approval, and otherwise, travel insurance is important. This document will protect against medical emergency-related expenses, or in the event of baggage loss or flight delays
• Cash and credit card: Canada uses Canadian dollars. Cash and credit cards are widely accepted everywhere
• Other travel documents : Do save a copy of all of your hotel bookings, tours, and other related activities. Don’t forget your driver’s license!

Culture in Canada: What to expect in Canada?

We, as Canadians, are proud of our country and culture. 

As former immigrants to the country, we can say that people here are friendly and helpful (and that’s why we decided to make it our permanent home). 

So here is what you can expect in Canada, 

• Locals are generally polite and conservative people, and expect others to behave in the same way. Be sure to say please and thank you, and avoid any rude behavior
• In most cases, Canadians will shake hands when meeting someone for the first time
• When dining out, it is customary to wait until everyone at the table has been served before starting to eat
• At the end of a meal in a restaurant, it is common to leave between 10% and 20% of the bill as a tip. If you can’t afford to tip that much, you can tell the server that they can keep the change.

As a country, Canada can offer a unique experience of mixing with locals and tourists alike.

It can be difficult to get around Canada if you can’t speak English. Some cities, like Montreal and rural areas in Quebec , are predominantly French-speaking, which can make it challenging if you can only speak English. 

Our tip is to download a translation app, or learn a few words in French to communicate with locals and service staff. 

Canada is beautiful and people here are very welcoming! With many things to see and do, there is something for everyone here!

Canada trip planner: An easy to follow Canada Travel Checklist

When planning a trip to Canada, you can follow this checklist (and use all the tips we listed above!)

Canada is a huge country with many different landscapes and attractions to explore. 

If you’re not sure where to start, consider visiting some of the country’s most popular destinations, such as Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal. These cities are all home to a variety of attractions, including museums, parks, and restaurants.

If you are interested in nature and outdoor activities, consider visiting one of the country’s many national parks such as Banff, Jasper and many provincial parks on the east as well as the west coast!

Step 2: Pick a time – month or season to travel to Canada

Once you know what you wish to explore in Canada , now is the time to make a decision on ‘when’ to visit. 

Now the best time to visit Canada depends on what you want to do. If you want to see the snow and related activities, then winter is the best time. Plan a visit around December through February. 

If you want to enjoy the warmer weather, then summer is the best time. This is also great for those wanting to camp, go hiking and enjoy road trips! 

Summer months are from June to August, and it is a peak season, so do book everything in advance!

For those chasing fall foliage, plan to visit in September or early October. Spring is nice to beat the crowds and enjoy deep discounts in accommodation in various places across Canada. 

When planning a trip to Canada, it’s important to set a budget and make sure you stick to it. 

Start with the flight tickets. Then accommodation is next. 

The best way to do this is by figuring out how much money you can afford to spend on travel (flights + transport) and accommodation, and then dividing that amount by the number of days you’ll be spending in Canada. 

Remember, you can save money by sticking to a single province (city + day trip combination), and by taking public transportation instead of renting a car.

Another tip is to save money by cooking your own food. (Do refer to our budget estimation in the section above)

Step 4: Finalise your Canada itinerary 

The next step is to finalize your Canada travel itinerary. 

Decide which cities you would like to visit and what attractions you would like to see. You can find a lot of information about the different places to visit in Canada in our travel blog , and then choose something to your liking and personal interests. 

Once you have a general idea, start making a list of tours and bookings that you need to make. 

Step 6: Get your travel documents sorted

Once you have chosen your destination and a rough itinerary, it’s time to get your travel visa to Canada. For Canadians, a passport or a valid government ID can be used to travel within the country.

For US passport holders, you will have to apply for an electronic Travel Authorization (known as an eTA) for your trip to Canada. It costs $7 CAD (you can find more information here )

eTA also applies to all visa-exempt foreign nationals who wish to visit or transit through a Canadian airport. 

For those international visitors who do not belong to a visa-exempt country, will have to apply for a Canadian Tourist Visa, prior to their trip. Most tourist visas are granted for a maximum of 10 years, or until the passport expires. 

Ensure you have a valid passport when you apply, and attach all of your financial documents, employment records, contact information in Canada and a rough itinerary along with travel insurance! 

Note: For all travelers to Canada, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned return date and that you have enough blank pages for visa stamps. If you need to renew your passport, do so well in advance of your trip. 

Step 7: Booking hotels, car rental, tours and other travel arrangements

Now you can start making reservations for hotels, tours and car rental (if necessary).

Use Booking.com to book your hotels and accommodation. We rely on their extensive inventory and reviews to make an informed decision when it comes to booking our stays. 

For car rentals, you can use Expedia.ca and reserve a vehicle.

Lastly, any type of attractions passes, and guided tours can be booked via GetYourGuide , which is our absolute travel partner! 

Step 8: Buy travel insurance 

When traveling to Canada, it is important to have travel insurance. This will protect you in case of an emergency or unexpected event. 

There are many different types of travel insurance available, so be sure to compare policies and find the one that best suits your needs. 

Step 9: Packing for Canada trip

After getting your visa and making travel arrangements, it is important to pack appropriately for the weather conditions in Canada. 

During the summer, warm temperatures can be found in all parts of the country. 

During the winter, however, Canada can experience freezing cold weather – so make sure your warm jacket or a parka is packed!

Here is a quick packing list for summer and winter months

• Tops (shirts, blouses, etc)
• Dresses and skirts
• Bottoms (pants, shorts, etc)
• Lightweight waterproof jacket
• Light cardigan or fleece jacket
• Walking and/or hiking shoes
• Moisture-wicking socks
• Thermal wear or Long johns (winter)
• Waterproof warm parka (winter)
• Snow pants (winter)
• Scarves (winter)
• Warm toque (winter)
• Warm socks (winter)
• Winter boots
• Toiletries (sunscreen, cold cream or moisturizer, etc.) 
• Electronic essentials
• Travel documents (visa, tour and hotel bookings, insurance, etc.)

Step 10: Arrive in Canada – Bienvenue au Canada

Set your alarm and get ready to fly (drive) to Canada.

When you first arrive in Canada, the first thing you’ll want to do is get oriented. 

Pick up a map of the city and find out where the main attractions are. Once you have a general idea of where things are, you can start sightseeing!

10 Canada Travel Tips

Here are our final 10 top Canada travel tips that you must know (these are the major takeaways from this article!)

1. Visa requirements can vary depending on your nationality, so be sure to check the visa requirements for Canada before you travel.

2. The currency in Canada is the Canadian dollar. Be sure to exchange your money at a bank or currency exchange prior to your trip.

3. Canada is a large country, and distances can be deceiving. When planning your route, be sure to take into account the time it will take to travel between destinations.

4. Many of Canada’s provinces and territories are vast and sparsely populated, so plan on driving long distances if you’re exploring rural areas.

5. Canada is a bilingual country, with English and French being the official languages. In some areas, you may hear both languages being spoken. Be sure to brush up on your basic French phrases before traveling to Quebec or New Brunswick.

6. The peak tourist season in Canada is from June to August, so if you’re looking to avoid crowds, plan your trip for September or October.

7. Canada has a diverse climate, with regions that experience all four seasons. Be sure to pack appropriately for the weather conditions in the area you’re visiting.

8. There are many beautiful provincial and national parks in Canada , and entrance fees can range from free to $30 per vehicle. Plan to spend at least one day exploring Canada’s stunning national parks.

9. Tipping is not customary in Canada , and can be considered rude in some cases. However, if you’ve had exceptional service, a tip of 10-20% is appreciated.

10. Canada is a welcoming country with a rich culture and history.

Canada is a vast country with plenty to see and do, so planning your trip can be a daunting task. But with these tips, you can make the most of your time in this beautiful country. 

So don’t wait, start planning today!

Pin: Plan a trip to Canada + Canada trip planning guide

Mayuri Kashyap is an Indian Canadian traveler, writer and photographer based in Alberta. She moved to Toronto as a student in 2009, and has been calling Canada home ever since. She started the blog - Canada Crossroads - to share her travel and living experiences in the Great White North!

A History graduate and an MBA, Mayuri is a destinations marketing expert. She loves traveling with her husband, Salil and soaking in experiences across Canada, India and Europe.

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• 17 Canada Travel Tips That...

17 Canada Travel Tips That Might Save Your Life

When traveling in Canada, there are many things to remember to ensure you have the best and safest vacation possible. For example, it’s important to know which areas to avoid, emergency numbers, and how to be prepared for all weather conditions. Here are some travel tips for visiting Canada , which might just save your life.

Know what to wear.

Temperatures and climates differ across Canada, so it’s important to do research before traveling. For example, a visit to Vancouver in winter will be very different than winter in Winnipeg. Winter weather essentials, no matter where you go, include good-quality snow boots , woolen accessories, and a waterproof jacket .

Protect yourself against petty crime

Prepare for weather conditions.

Canada is known for its intense winter weather conditions, so it’s important to keep a constant eye on the country’s rapidly changing weather. The Weather Network is a good website to track conditions. In winter, be prepared for road closures due to avalanches and snowstorms. If driving in winter, ensure your rental vehicle is equipped with snow tires.

Visa on arrival

Before you even begin traveling in Canada, you need to successfully enter the country. Many nationalities need an eTa (electronic travel authorisation) visa to gain entry into Canada. It’s inexpensive and must be purchased online prior to your arrival in the country.

Visiting national parks

Canada is the world’s second-biggest country and is home to many stunning national parks . But each park poses a different threat, depending on the wildlife that calls it home. Parks Canada lists visitor safety tips for most national parks on its website, so it’s a great resource.

Travel insurance

No matter your country of origin, travel insurance is always imperative. Most insurance companies have an extra policy you can select if skiing and snowboarding are on the travel agenda. These fun, yet somewhat risky, winter activities are two very important reasons why you should purchase travel insurance before visiting Canada.

Bear safety

Grizzly and black bears are found in Canadian parks in the summertime and can be potentially dangerous. When visiting national parks , always ensure no food products are visible to bears. Dispose of garbage, use airtight containers for storage, and cook away from campsites. Get knowledgeable on bear safety too. If visiting Churchill and its polar bears , be extra vigilant as polar bears are the only animals to actively stalk humans.

Canada’s major cities have different public transport options. In Vancouver, the SkyTrain is the world’s longest fully automated driverless system, whereas Toronto uses a subway, bus, and streetcar public transport network . When traveling in rural areas, it’s safest to rent a car, as it may be difficult to get from point A to point B otherwise. Taxis and Ubers are also available in urban areas.

Water safety

Canada has the world’s longest coastline , so there’s a lot of places to swim in summer. It’s also home to many freshwater lakes. But remember to not enter the water unless you’re a confident swimmer. Be aware of the ocean’s strong currents, and don’t dive off head first into any of Canada’s rocky oceanside cliffs. Adult supervision of young swimmers is also paramount.

Emergency numbers

It’s always important to know the number for emergencies in every country you visit. In Canada, it’s the same as the United States: 911. For non-emergencies, visitors can call 311 in some areas, such as Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, Halifax, and Winnipeg.

Animal awareness when driving

Across Canada, there are Wildlife Warning Signs reminding drivers to be cautious while driving. The country also has a Wildlife Collision Prevention Program , which provides helpful hints to avoid hitting wildlife and what to do if striking an animal is inevitable. Reading up on safety tips could save your life. In the Rockies, there are unique animal overpasses to avoid such accidents.

It might not save your life, but it’s important to know that tipping is expected in the hospitality, tourism, and services industries. The standard amount is between 15–20%. At most places, they bring an Eftpos machine to you, where you can easily select a dollar or percentage tip when paying with a card.

Ski and snowboard safety

Many visitors to Canada come for the skiing and snowboarding opportunities , but these outdoor activities do have their dangers. People hitting the slopes should always stay in control, respect their limits when it comes to choosing a run, and remember that people ahead have the right of way.

Avoid bad areas

Most cities around the world inevitably have unsafe areas or neighborhoods. In Vancouver, the Downtown Eastside is an area known for its homelessness and drug problems. However, it’s next to Gastown , one of the city’s best foodie neighborhoods. So avoiding it is difficult, but it’s important for visitors to be aware of their surroundings. In Toronto, locals recommend staying away from Sherbourne and Parliament Streets after dark.

Learn a little French

In Quebec only, French is the official language. Although many people speak English, it could be useful to know a few key words and phrases in French, especially for conversing with locals outside of the hospitality and tourism industries.

Manitoba is all about snakes

Manitoba actually has the world’s largest concentration of snakes . In May, around 70,000 snakes, particularly red-sided garter snakes, come out of hibernation. There are even snake dens , where visitors can stand on a viewing platform and see the snakes emerge in springtime. So if you’re afraid of snakes, May might not be the best time for visiting Manitoba.

Always carry cash

Canada is a vast country with many rural towns, islands, and campgrounds. It’s always worthwhile carrying some spare cash when traveling around the country, as you never know where the next ATM may be. However, in the bigger cities, it isn’t necessary as ATMs are prevalent.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Guides & Tips

Unforgettable road trips in new brunswick.

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From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Canada

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• Getting around Canada: Transportation Tips
• Best time to visit Canada

The commodity-fuelled Canadian economy is one of the world’s richest, and though most things in Canada are r easonably priced by western European standards, food and drink, even basic items and snacks, can be relatively expensive. Canada’s recession in 2014/2015 did at least make Canadian dollars cheaper, making this a good time to visit for US and European travellers. In remote areas such as Labrador and the far north, everything starts to get significantly more expensive – travel here is much harder on a budget. Accommodation, almost certainly your major outlay, can be very pricey in any of the country’s cities and towns – especially if you’re after a degree of comfort – but there are plenty of bargains to be had, not least in the burgeoning hostel and B&B market.

Crime and personal safety

Electricity, entry requirements, measurements, useful phone numbers, tourist information, useful websites, travellers with disabilities, public holidays, national holidays, provincial holidays.

On average , if you’re prepared to buy your own picnic lunch, stay in hostels and stick to the least expensive bars and restaurants, you could get by on around £30/US$50/C$65 a day. Staying in a good B&B, eating out in medium-range restaurants most nights and drinking regularly in bars, you’ll get through at least £80/US$123/C$160 a day, with the main variable being the cost of your room. On £126/US$192/C$250 a day, you’ll be limited only by your energy reserves – though if you’re planning to stay in the best hotels and make every night a big night out, this still won’t be enough.

Virtually all prices in Canada for everything from bubble gum to hotel rooms are quoted without tax , which means the price you see quoted is not the price you’ll end up paying. With the exception of Alberta, the Yukon, Nunavut and NWT, each province levies a Provincial Sales Tax (PST) of between five (Saskatchewan) and ten (PEI) percent on most goods and services, including hotel and restaurant bills; this is supplemented by the Goods and Services Tax (GST) , a five percent Federal levy applied nationwide. In New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, PEI and Newfoundland and Labrador, the two taxes are amalgamated into the so-called Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) at a rate of thirteen to fifteen percent.

All of this means Alberta (and the territories) has the lowest total sales tax of just five percent (though hotels are slapped with an additional four percent in Alberta), while Nova Scotia has the highest, at fifteen percent.

Canada is one of the safest countries in the world and although there are a few crime hot-spots, these are confined to the peripheries of the country’s three big cities – Toronto, Montréal and Vancouver. Few Canadian citizens carry arms , muggings are uncommon, and even in the cities, street crime is infrequent. Canadian officials are notorious for coming down hard if you’re found with drugs , especially on non-Canadians. Stiff penalties are imposed, even when only traces of any illegal substance are found. Police are also diligent in enforcing traffic laws .

In Canada electricity is supplied at an alternating current of 110 volts and at a frequency of 60Hz, the same as in the US. Appliances such as shavers and hair dryers from most other countries need transformers – most phones, laptops and tablets can usually handle both 220/240 and 110 volt currents. For all appliances, you’ll need a plug converter for Canada’s two-pin sockets.

As of March 2016, Canada requires all visa-exempt foreign nationals who fly to Canada to get Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) in advance. This applies to citizens of the EU, Norway, Iceland and most Commonwealth countries, including the UK, Australia and New Zealand – passport holders from South Africa must still apply for formal visas in advance. You must apply for eTA online and pay a $7 fee – most are approved within minutes and are valid for five years (multiple entry). You’ll need a valid passport, an email address and a credit card (not debit card) to complete the online form. Visit w cic.gc.ca for the latest requirements and forms. US citizens only need a passport or approved alternative to enter Canada (and can stay for up to six months without a visa). Note that eTA is also not required for anyone visiting Canada by land and sea from the US – border formalities at these entry points remain unchanged.

At the border itself the immigration officer decides the length of stay permitted – usually not more than six months. The officers rarely refuse entry, but they may delve deep, asking you for details of your schedule and enquiring as to how much money you have and what job you do; they may also ask to see a return or onward ticket.

For visits of more than six months, study trips and stints of (temporary) employment, contact the nearest Canadian embassy, consulate or high commission for authorization prior to departure. Once inside Canada, if you need an extension of your stay or want to change the basis on which you were admitted, you must apply to the nearest Canada Immigration Centre at least thirty days before the expiry of the authorized visit. Most visitors to Canada cannot work or study in the country without a special permit.

For duty-free , the standard allowance is 1.5 litres of wine or 1.14 litres of liquor or 24 355ml bottles/cans of beer, plus two hundred cigarettes, fifty cigars or cigarillos, and 200g of tobacco.

Canada has an excellent health service , but nonresidents are not entitled to free health care, and medical costs can be astronomical – get insurance before you go. If you have an accident, medical services will get to you quickly and charge you later. If you are carrying medicine prescribed by your doctor, also bring a copy of the prescription – first, to avoid problems at customs and immigration and, second, for renewing medication with Canadian doctors, if needed. Most larger towns and cities should have a 24-hour or late-opening pharmacy. For general information on public health, and a list of travel clinics across Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada is a good resource ( w phac-aspc.gc.ca ).

You are unlikely to face any special health issues in Canada, though there are certain dangers in the backcountry . Tap water is generally safe to drink, but at campgrounds water is sometimes good for washing only. You should always boil backcountry water for at least ten minutes to protect against the Giardia parasite, which thrives in warm water, so be equally careful about swimming in hot springs – if possible, keep nose, eyes and mouth above water. Symptoms are intestinal cramps, flatulence, fatigue, weight loss and vomiting, all of which can appear up to a week after infection. If left untreated, more unpleasant complications can arise.

Blackflies and mosquitoes are notorious for the problems they cause walkers and campers, and are especially bad in areas near standing water and throughout most of northern Canada. Late April to June is the blackfly season, and the mosquito season is from June until about October. If you’re planning an expedition into the wilderness, take three times the recommended daily dosage of vitamin B complex for two weeks before you go, and to take the recommended dosage while you’re in Canada; this cuts down bites by up to 75 percent.

Once you’re there, repellent creams and sprays may help: the best are those containing DEET. Don’t go anywhere near an area marked as a blackfly mating ground – although it’s very rare, people have died from bites sustained when the creatures are in heat. Also dangerous is West Nile virus (mid-April to Oct), a mosquito-borne affliction with life-threatening properties; the virus has infected people as far west as BC and has killed over forty since 2002, so pay attention to local advice.

If you develop a large rash and flu-like symptoms, you may have been bitten by a tick carrying Lyme borreliosis, or Lyme disease . This is easily curable, but if left untreated can lead to nasty complications. It’s spreading in Canada, especially in the more southerly and wooded parts of the country, so you should check on its prevalence with the local tourist authority. It also may be advisable to buy a strong tick repellent and to wear long socks, trousers and sleeved shirts when walking.

In backcountry areas, look out for poison ivy , which grows in most places, but particularly in a belt across southern Ontario and Québec. If you’re likely to be walking in affected areas, ask at tourist offices for tips on where it is and how to recognize it. The ivy causes itchy open blisters and lumpy sores up to ten days after contact. If you do come into contact with it, wash your body and clothes as soon as possible, smother yourself in calamine lotion and try not to scratch. In serious cases, hospital emergency rooms can give antihistamine or adrenalin jabs.

Prior to travelling, you should take out an insurance policy to cover against theft, loss and illness or injury. You’ll probably want to contact a specialist travel insurance company , or consider the travel insurance deal we offer. Most policies exclude so-called dangerous sports unless an extra premium is paid: in Canada this can mean whitewater rafting, mountain climbing and so on. If you need to make a claim, keep receipts for medicines and medical treatment. In the event you have anything stolen, you must obtain a crime report statement or number from the police.

Internet access is commonplace at Canadian hotels, hostels and B&Bs, and there are also plenty of cafés with free wi-fi in cities and towns. Free internet access is also available at all major libraries.

For unlimited Wi-Fi on the go whilst travelling Canada, buy a Skyroam Solis , which works in 130+ countries at one flat daily rate, paid for on a pay-as-you-go basis. You can connect up to five devices at once. Prices start from as little as $6 a day.

Every Canadian city, town and village of any significant size has its own post office , operated by Canada Post ( w canadapost.ca ). Opening hours are usually Monday to Friday 8.30am–5.30pm, though a few places open on Saturday from 9am to noon. Much more numerous are Canada Post service counters inside larger stores, especially pharmacies, and here opening hours vary considerably, though core hours are the same as those of the post offices. To check for the nearest postal outlet, call t 1 800 267 1177, or consult the website. Apart from Canada Post outlets, stamps can be purchased from automatic vending machines, the lobbies of larger hotels, airports, train stations, bus terminals and many retail outlets and newsstands. Current postal charges are 85¢ for letters and postcards up to 30g within Canada, $1.20 for the same weight to the US and $2.50 for international mail (also up to 30g).

The free maps issued by each provincial tourist office are excellent for general driving and route planning, especially as they provide the broad details of ferry connections. The best of the commercially produced maps are those published by Rand McNally ( w randmcnally.com), though Google Maps are also fairly accurate for most areas of Canada.

Canada uses the metric system , though many people still use the imperial system. Distances are in kilometres, temperatures in degrees Celsius, and foodstuffs, petrol and drink are sold in grams, kilograms or litres.

Canadian currency is the Canadian dollar ($), made up of 100 cents (¢). Coins come as 1¢ (penny), 5¢ (nickel), 10¢ (dime), 25¢ (quarter), $1 and $2. The $1 coin is known as a “loonie”, after the bird on one face; the $2 coin is known as a “toonie”. There are notes of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100. US dollars are widely accepted near the border, but generally – banks, etc apart – on a one-for-one basis, which can be a very bad deal for US dollar holders. For up-to-date exchange rates, check w xe.com; at the time of writing, one Canadian dollar was worth 0.50 British pounds (£), 0.67 euros (€), 0.76 US dollars (US$), 1.08 Australian dollars (Aus$), 1.18 New Zealand dollars (NZ$) and 10.44 South African Rand (R).

Banking hours are a minimum of Monday to Friday 10am to 3pm, but many have late opening – till 6pm – on one night a week, others are open on Saturday mornings.

ATMs are commonplace. Most accept a host of debit cards , including all those carrying the Cirrus coding. All major credit and charge cards are widely accepted.

When dialling any Canadian number, either local or long-distance, you must include the area code. Long-distance calls – to numbers beyond the area code of the telephone from which you are making the call – must be prefixed with “1”.

Most mobile providers in Canada (Bell, Telus, SaskTel & MTS) have traditionally used CDMA technology compatible with their US counterparts, though most CDMA networks will be shut down by 2017 in favour of HSPA and LTE (GSM technology). Rogers Wireless and several other providers already use GSM technology, which means that mobiles bought in the UK and Europe can also be used in Canada (assuming you have a roaming option and your phone is tri-band) – in this case you’ll definitely be charged international rates for incoming calls that originate from home. UK providers that have roaming agreements with Rogers include Orange, T-Mobile, Vodafone and 3. If you have a Blackberry or iPhone these should work in Canada, but you’ll need to be extra careful about roaming charges, especially for data, which can be extortionate; even checking voicemail can result in hefty charges. Many travellers turn off voicemail and data roaming before they travel. Most phone companies will provide cheaper options for customers travelling to Canada, so check in advance. In Canada, mobile networks cover every city and town, but in rural areas you’ll struggle to get a signal.

Public telephones are becoming harder to find due to the popularity of mobile phones. The cost of a local call is usually 50¢ for three or four minutes, depending on the carrier (each phone company runs their own booths). Long-distance calls are much pricier, and you’re better off using a prepaid calling card ($5, $10 or $20), which you can buy at most grocery stores and newsstands.

Police, fire, ambulance 911.

Operator 0.

Information Within North America411; international, call the operator 0.

Canada has six time zones , but only four-and-a-half hours separate the eastern extremities of the country from the western.

Newfoundland is on Newfoundland time (3hr 30min behind the UK and 1hr 30min ahead of the eastern US).

The Maritimes and Labrador are on Atlantic (4hr behind the UK and 1hr ahead of the eastern US), though southeastern Labrador follows Newfoundland time.

Québec and most of Ontario are on Eastern (5hr behind the UK) – the same zone as New York and the eastern US.

Manitoba, the northwest corner of Ontario, and Saskatchewan are on Central (6hr behind the UK; same as US Central).

Alberta, the Northwest Territories and a slice of northeast BC are on Mountain (7hr behind the UK – same as US Mountain).

In the west, the Yukon and the remainder of BC are on Pacific (8hr behind the UK and 1hr ahead of Alaska – same as US Pacific).

Nunavut spans a number of time zones, from Mountain to Atlantic.

For daylight savings (used in all regions except Saskatchewan, parts of Québec and northeast BC), clocks go forward one hour on the first Sunday of April, and back one hour on the last Sunday in October.

All of Canada’s provinces have their own tourist website and these, along with those run by Parks Canada , covering the country’s national parks and historic sites, and Travel Canada ’s generic website ( w travelcanada.ca), are the most useful source of information before you set out. Each province and territory operates a toll-free visitor information line for use within mainland North America. In Canada itself, there are provincial and territorial tourist information centres along the main highways, especially at provincial boundaries and along the US border; information centres at every national and many provincial parks, selling fishing and backcountry permits and giving help on the specifics of hiking, canoeing, wildlife watching and so forth; and tourist offices in every city and town.

Assembly of First Nations afn.ca. Lobbying organization of Canada’s Aboriginal peoples, with plenty to get you briefed on the latest situation.

Canadian Ice Hockey hockeycanada.ca . The official site of the amateur governing body for the national obsession.

The Globe and Mail theglobeandmail.com . Canada’s premier newspaper online.

National Atlas of Canada Online atlas.nrcan.gc.ca . Maps, stats and plenty of details on Canada’s geographic features.

National Library of Canada collectionscanada.gc.ca . Information on all things Canadian, ordered by subject. Includes Canadian arts, literature and history.

Parks Canada pc.gc.ca . Excellent website with detailed information on all of Canada’s national parks and national historic sites. Reserve space at some national parks at w pccamping.ca .

Weather – Environment Canada weatheroffice.gc.ca . Get the most accurate weather forecasts at this government site.

w weather.gc.ca . Get the most accurate weather forecasts at this government site.

At least in its cities and towns, Canada is one of the best places in the world to travel if you have limited mobility or other physical disabilities . All public buildings are required to be wheelchair-accessible and provide suitable toilet facilities, almost all street corners have dropped kerbs and public phones are specially equipped for hearing-aid users. Wheelchair users may encounter problems when travelling on urban public transport, but this is changing rapidly. Out in the wilds, things are inevitably more problematic, but almost all the national parks have accessible visitor and information centres and many have specially designed, accessible trails. In addition, VIA Rail offers a good range of services for travellers with disabilities – and the larger car-rental companies can provide vehicles with hand controls at no extra charge, though these are usually only available on their most expensive models; book one as far in advance as you can. Provincial tourist offices are the prime source of information on accessible hotels, motels and sights. To obtain a parking privilege permit, drivers with disabilities must apply to a provincial authority, though the permit itself, once issued, is valid across Canada. Useful websites include w otc-cta .gc.ca/eng/take-charge .

New Year’s Day Jan 1

Good Friday Varies; March/April

Easter Sunday Varies; March/April

Easter Monday Varies; March/April (widely observed, but not an official public holiday)

Victoria Day Third Mon in May

Canada Day July 1

Labour Day First Mon in Sept

Thanksgiving Second Mon in Oct

Remembrance Day Nov 11 (only a partial holiday; government offices and banks are closed, but most businesses are open)

Christmas Day Dec 25

Boxing Day Dec 26

Alberta Third Mon in Feb (Alberta Family Day); first Mon in Aug (Heritage Day)

British Columbia First Mon in Aug (British Columbia Day)

Manitoba First Mon in Aug (Civic Holiday)

New Brunswick First Mon in Aug (New Brunswick Day)

Newfoundland and Labrador March 17 (St Patrick’s Day); third Mon in April (St George’s Day); third Mon in June (Discovery Day); first Mon in July (Memorial Day); third Mon in July (Orangeman’s Day)

Northwest Territories First Mon in Aug (Civic Holiday)

Nova Scotia First Mon in Aug (Civic Holiday)

Nunavut April 1 (Nunavut Day)

Ontario First Mon in Aug (Civic Holiday)

Québec Jan 6 (Epiphany); Ash Wednesday; Ascension (forty days after Easter); June 24 (Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day); Nov 1 (All Saints’ Day); Dec 8 (Immaculate Conception)

Saskatchewan First Mon in Aug (Civic Holiday)

Yukon Third Mon in Aug (Discovery Day)

The Rough Guides to Canada and related travel guides

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Tips and tricks to keep in mind on your visit to Toronto

Sep 17, 2021 • 5 min read

There are just a few ins and outs to learn about Toronto before you go © Russel Monk / Getty Images

Toronto is one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. Steeped in history and culture, it also bursts with joyous, offbeat energy and resolutely inclusive attitudes. I've learned that Toronto has its challenges and unspoken rules too; planning ahead and knowing what to expect go a long way in making a trip here unforgettable.

Add 13% to almost everything you buy (and then some)

Toronto is expensive, there are no two ways about it. It doesn’t help that a 13% tax is tagged onto all goods and services. Add to that a 17% tax for hotel stays. And, of course, 15% to 20% tips for meals are expected.

In general, travelers on a mid-range budget should plan on spending CA$100-250 per day to cover typical expenses. To save a bit, consider staying in a hostel (most have private rooms), buy self-catered meals in markets and take public transportation. CityPASS helps save on some major attractions too.   And there are plenty of free things to do as well if all those taxes feel overwhelming. 

Pay with Loonies

Yes, most places accept US dollars but use Canadian dollars instead – you are in Canada after all (plus you’ll save cash on lousy on-the-spot exchange rates).

Reserve your stay

While Toronto has no shortage of accommodations, smaller places like inns and B&Bs can sell out, especially during the summer months. Book early!

Buy pro sports tickets well in advance 

Torontonians are diehard sports fans, no matter how poorly their teams are playing. If you want to join the madness, book tickets as soon as you know you’re headed to town – Maple Leafs and Raptors games go especially fa st.

Purchase seats for big-ticket shows early too

While you can typically score last-minute tickets for smaller theaters, Broadway shows pack houses months ahead.  Buy tickets in advance. Otherwise, rush tickets are occasionally sold on performance day, starting at 9am.

Explore Toronto (mostly) on foot

Though Toronto is Canada’s largest city – over 6 million people – most sights are concentrated in downtown Toronto and the bohemian, ethnic, historic and waterfront neighborhoods that surround it.

Laid out in a grid, navigating Toronto is easiest on foot – you'll see more, learn how the city works, and have the freedom to pop in and out of places. If the weather is cruddy, follow the signs to PATH, a 17-mile network (30km) of tunnels that connects over 70 buildings and shopping centers. For the waterfront, change things up and rent a bike.

To get across town , use Toronto’s public transportation system (TTC). True, the streetcars and buses are often delayed and the subway only has four lines, but it’ll get you where you’re going. At all costs, avoid driving; the bumper-to-bumper traffic can be soul-crushing. If you must, bring your defensive-driving “A” game.

Mind your Ps and Qs

Though Torontonians are generally laid-back, “please,” “thank you” and “sorry” are highly valued words. Use them. Bumping into someone without apologizing or not thanking someone for holding the door is considered rude.

Likewise, cutting a line can prompt full-on shouts. And whatever you do, don’t say Canadians and Americans are the same – this oft-heard comment abroad is considered offensive at home.

Hear beaucoup languages

Toronto is a cultural phenomenon, where 51% of the population was born outside of Canada. You see it in the races and ethnicities of the people (over 250 nationalities), you hear it in the languages spoken (over 170) and you taste it in the food (almost 7,500 eateries).

Likewise, the celebrations and festivals , advertising and even the lineup of comedians and musical acts look and sound like nowhere else on earth. The city’s multiculturalism is refreshing and embracing…it’s what makes Toronto great. 

Notice the Land Acknowledgements

“Land Acknowledgement” proclamations are posted all around Toronto and are read aloud at public events. The exact text varies, but at heart, they’re reminders that you’re on the ancestral lands of several First Nations’ communities, that it was taken by force or by broken treaty and that generations of Indigenous people have suffered all manner of atrocities at the hands of colonizers. It’s a small but significant recognition of Toronto’s First Nations’ people, their history and present-day struggles.  

Display your rainbow colors proudly

Toronto is one of the LGBTIQ+ friendliest cities in the world, the first in North America to legalize same-sex marriage. The Church-Wellesley Village neighborhood is ground zero for the LGBTIQ+ community, a welcoming place where pretty much anything goes and everyone belongs. If you’re here in June, don’t miss the month-long Pride Toronto festivities – the parade alone brings over one million revelers to the streets!

Wear jeans and pack a warm hat

A decent pair of jeans is a standard go-to in Toronto, day or night. The exception is at upscale restaurants, clubs and theaters: where you should bring out your trendy threads instead. In the colder months, carry a warm hat and a jacket too – temperatures can drop quickly, and nothing says tourist more than wearing a ‘Toronto’ sweatshirt around town.

Have a government-sanctioned drink

Thanks to Ontario’s antiquated laws, hard alcohol can only be purchased from the government-run LCBO (Liquor Control Board of Ontario).

Beer and Ontario-produced wine can be found at some grocery stores and the aptly named Beer Store. If you’re looking to picnic with a bottle, be discreet – public drinking is tolerated but not legal.

Don’t count on Universal Health Care

While Canada offers some of the finest health care in the world, it’s only free for Canadians. In fact, if you land in the ER, care can be prohibitively expensive. Before arriving, check if your healthcare policy covers you in Toronto; if it doesn’t, consider purchasing travel health insurance.   

Be aware of your surroundings 

Toronto is an extraordinarily safe place, consistently ranking as one of the safest cities in the world. But, like any major metropolis, it has some sketchy areas. Near the city’s attractions, Allan Gardens  is known as a place you might encounter pickpockets; best to take a cab or ride-share around there after dark. And regardless of where you are, it’s always good practice to be aware of your surroundings and avoid flashing your cash. If you encounter any problems, call 911.

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Solo Travel Canada: 60 Tips to Plan an Exciting Adventure

April 4, 2023 by Janice Waugh

Winter, summer, spring, fall–it doesn't matter. Every season offers unique opportunities for solo travel in Canada.

In this post I'm jamming in everything I think you need to explore the country. Whether you want to discover the wilderness or our urban lifestyle, here is your guide to Canada.

It starts with an overview of the country, who Canadians are, what the landscape is like from one coast to the other, how to get around, and more.

Next up, a province-by-province summary of what I love most in each. I've traveled right across Canada and I've managed to get to one of the territories. Two more to go. So here's what you need to know and links to in-depth posts from specific trips.

Table of Contents

Solo Travel Canada: An Overview

• There are two official languages.  English is spoken just about everywhere in Canada, though outside of Montreal and Quebec City it may be less available in the province of Quebec.
• The people of Canada . With the exception of the Indigenous peoples of Canada, we are a country of immigrants. In sweeping terms, first came the French, then the English. Similar to the United States, we had a wave of immigration in the mid 19th century from Ireland and another in the late 19th century from Eastern Europe. Immigration ended with World War I and the Great Depression then picked up again after World War II – this time from Western Europe. In the early 70s immigrants came from Africa, Asia, and South and Central America, as well as Europe. Canada made multiculturalism an official national policy in 1971. In cities like Toronto, slightly over half the population was not born in Canada. Most of the diversity in the population is in the larger cities making for a great culinary scene and cultural events. Interestingly, 80% of the population lives within 100 miles of the American border.
• The Canadian stereotype.  The joke about Canadians is that we are really polite. When you travel solo in Canada, you'll hear us say, “Sorry!” all day long. Well, as with many stereotypes, it's not far from the truth. We are a polite people on the whole. We're also quite friendly and helpful. Generally, Canadians are good hosts for solo travelers. If you really want to run the stereotype to the hilt, we like beer, hockey, our health care system, and considering ourselves tolerant, though that latter one is a work in progress.
• Newfoundland, known as “The Rock”, offers the drama of its west coast (comparable to the Rockies in my opinion), the sea with the village of Trinity being one of the oldest communities in North America, and a rugged interior with dwarfed trees.
• From Newfoundland you can take a ferry to the French islands of St. Pierre and Miquelon.
• Throughout the east coast, known as Atlantic Canada (Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick), there are lots of forests for fishing, hiking, and hunting.
• The coastlines of the Maritime provinces (Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick) are stunning, especially the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia and the Bay of Fundy that borders on both Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
• Prince Edward Island has rolling hills, beautiful red earth, and farmland. Of course, it's also home to Anne of Green Gables .
• Quebec offers more forests for fishing, hunting, etc. The drive around the Gaspé is beautiful. Near Montreal there's the best skiing in Canada east of the Rockies.
• Ontario has Niagara Falls; three principal wine regions in the Niagara Peninsula, Prince Edward County, and Lake Erie North Shore; cottage country; and hundreds of lakes and rivers including the Great Lakes. The north shore of Lake Superior is a particularly stunning drive through wilderness. Algonquin Park is a wonderful provincial park covering almost 3,000 square miles of wilderness for camping, hiking, and canoeing.
• The prairie provinces, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta are flat. Some people would leave it at that but I see great beauty in this big sky country. The colors can be subtle in the grasslands or dramatic as when a canola field and flax field are side by side. The yellow on purple is stunning.
• On the far side of Alberta are the Rocky Mountains that also stretch into British Columbia. The Rockies offer great skiing, mountain climbing, hiking, rafting, and kayaking.
• Further west into British Columbia, just past the Rockies is a desert and then a fruit belt as well as the massive Thompson and Fraser Rivers.
• Finally, we're on the west shore of Canada where there is Vancouver Island and the Queen Charlotte Islands with their fabulous rainforests.
• St. John's and Halifax are doable together by car and ferry.
• Toronto, Kingston, Montreal, and Quebec City work together by train or car.
• Calgary and Edmonton require a car or bus and are a great pair with fabulous access to the mountains.
• Likewise, Vancouver and Victoria offer another pairing with access via ferry between them.
• Listen to CBC radio.   CBC is Canada's public broadcaster  featuring both national and local shows. Listen to Cross Country Checkup live on Sundays or access recent episodes on the CBC Radio website. Take in the local programming across the country, as well. By following such programs you'll pick up on what Canadians care about.
• Via Rail is your train. There is only one train service in Canada. Via Rail is it. Take Tracey's advice and get on their mailing list, then watch your inbox for deals every Tuesday. Booking 7 days or more in advance often results in the greatest savings. Toronto to Vancouver takes 4 days and 3 nights by train, non-stop. It's a beautiful trip as is Toronto to Nova Scotia or New Brunswick, which takes one overnight. Of course, you don't have to start in Toronto – I use it as a starting point as many people can't imagine more than 3 days on a train. A car trip across the country is amazing, but not everyone has the time for that. You need at least three weeks and still you would do little of it justice. Read  British Columbia by Train: Budget or Luxury. It’s Your Choice.
• The major airlines . The size of Canada and the sparseness of the population keeps flight prices relatively high. While there are some regional airlines like Porter, the major airlines are Air Canada, Air Transat, and West Jet. Canada now has some budget airlines, such as Flair and Swoop, with limited options.
• Taste what is uniquely Canadian. Canada isn't known for a unique cuisine but there are some foods that are definitely Canadian. Try butter tarts, Nanaimo bars, poutine, beaver tails, Canadian smoked salmon, Montreal smoked meat, Montreal bagels, maple syrup, chocolate bars (which contain enough chocolate so that they can be called such and not candy bars), tourtière, and a Caesar (like a Bloody Mary but with Clamato, a mixture of tomato juice and clam broth).
• Take in a hockey game, NHL or AHL . The NHL is the major leagues and games can be very expensive. The AHL games are far more affordable and you'll still get a feel for the Canadian passion for hockey, though   the only Canadian franchises are the Toronto Maple Leafs’ farm team, the Toronto Marlies and the Montreal Canadiens' farm team, the St. John’s IceCaps. Junior A hockey is where many of Canada's top players start and many cities, large and small, have teams.
• Be prepared for long distances. Canada is a large country with the relatively small population of 38 million. There isn't a town every 30 miles or so. In fact, in some parts of the country you can travel hundreds of miles without passing a town. If you're driving, be aware of how much fuel you have and when you'll likely see the next gas station.

Recommended Resources for Solo Travel in Canada

• Traveling Canada By train, go to  Via Rail.  To book a flight across Canada check out Flight Network.
• Accommodation   You will find lots of options. On a road trip across the country from Yukon to Ontario, Tracey used Booking.com to find a place to stay each day once she knew where she would stop. See Best Accommodation for Solo Travelers for more ideas.
• Day Tours Check the wide variety of tours across the country offered by Viator .
• Travel Insurance Here's the post that covers travel insurance in detail: A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers .
• Online Security When you're traveling and using public Wi-Fi a VPN is important. Read Best VPN for Travel: What, Why and Feature-Price Comparison .

Top Tips for Traveling Newfoundland and Labrador

• Newfoundland and Labrador is one province. While most people only get to Newfoundland, as you can see on the map, Labrador is a unique though more remote destination.
• Take in Newfoundland's big nature. There's whale watching from May to September, iceberg viewing in the spring and early summer, and hiking all over the province.
• Explore St. John’s.  Founded in 1497,  St. John’s  is the oldest permanent settlement in North America and the province’s capital. Signal Hill, a fortified lookout onto the harbor that has figured into Newfoundland’s history, colorful row houses, great pubs, and arts and culture are all there .
• Road trip.  Newfoundland is fascinating, from the archaeological site of L'Anse aux Meadows in the north to the Irish Loop in the south. There are  several routes  to consider.
• Don't miss the west coast . The west coast of Newfoundland has the majesty of the Rockies. Gros Morne National Park , with its mountains and fjords, offers breathtaking vistas and great hiking.
• Consider a trip to France . A 55-minute ferry ride from Fortune is St. Pierre and Miquelon, a little bit of France near Canada.

Exploring Nova Scotia

• See it all at your pace . Tracey and I created for you a road trip itinerary circumnavigating Nova Scotia – a road trip with ocean views, friendly people, interesting history & delicious seafood. Circumnavigating Nova Scotia: A Solo Road Trip of Ocean Views .
• Drive or cycle the Cabot Trail.  I cycled the Trail when I was 19 and have driven it twice since then. It's one of the most spectacular drives in Canada. See my Top Tips for the Cabot Trail . Here are another 32 Tips for Cape Breton .
• Explore Nova Scotia's Acadian Shores . Discover the unique Acadian culture and history. Plan a trip in 2024 and you could attend the Acadian World Congress. Learn more in Nova Scotia’s Acadian Shores: The Stories I Love to Discover .
• Taste the food and wine.  While the lobster is fantastic, there are also plenty of other treats in store for you. Tracey shares some of her favorites in Flavors of Nova Scotia: My Top 5 Tastes .
• Go to Lunenburg.  Lunenburg is a beautiful seaside town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There you’ll also find The Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic.
• Take a solo road trip.  There are so many lovely towns and beautiful landscapes to see. If you get turned around, friendly locals will set you back on course. Just ask Tracey – she set off on her first  solo road trip in Nova Scotia.

Prince Edward Island, Home of Anne

• Visit Anne.  The  Anne of Green Gables books by Lucy Maud Montgomery attract many people to PEI. In Cavendish, you’ll find  Green Gables Heritage Place , Avonlea Village, and the site of L.M. Montgomery’s Cavendish Home. For theater, you can see the longest running annual musical theater production (according to the Guinness Book of World Records), Anne of Green Gables-The Musical, at the Charlottetown Festival or Anne & Gilbert-The Musical at The Guild.
• Take in a ceilidh (pronounced kay-lee).  A ceilidh is a party and PEI has many of them.  You can join the Chaisson’s  every Wednesday starting June 28, 2023 at the historic Stanley Bridge Hall. The group is comprised of Kevin Chaisson and Louise Chaisson-MacKinnon with a special guest fiddler every week.
• Go to the beach.  There are beaches all around this island province. You have your choice of official beaches with supervision and wild beaches for seclusion.
• Go to Charlottetown.  Charlottetown  is a small, safe city with great food, festivals, shopping, historic sites, theater, and some of the friendliest people in the world. Solo travel to Canada should definitely include a visit here.

Fall in Love with New Brunswick

• The Bay of Fundy.  There's whale watching and sea kayaking in the Bay of Fundy. It has the highest tides in the world – this is the same bay that creates the tidal bore in Nova Scotia. There's a ferry between Saint John, New Brunswick and Digby, Nova Scotia.
• Drive the Acadian Coastal Route. From Moncton to Miramichi to Caraquet to Shediac, here's a 5-day itinerary with lots of tips and photos from my Great Acadian Road Trip .
• Eat lobster!  From lighthouses to roadside diners to fine dining restaurants you'll find great lobster in New Brunswick. It's delicious!
• Discover Acadian culture.  Along the Acadian coast you'll find beaches with the warmest salt water north of Virginia, and you’ll meet Acadians whose unique French culture was the wellspring that the Cajuns of New Orleans came from.
• Attend local festivals – especially this one!   The Tintamarre  is part of the Festival Acadien de Caraquet which runs from August 1-15 every year. It includes events such as decorating the town, concerts, and the blessing of the fleet over the course of two weeks. Plan to be in Caraquet at 6:00 pm on August 15th to join the crowds as they make as much noise as possible for one complete hour.

Solo Travel Canada: Tips for Quebec

• Visit Old Montreal.  Montreal and Quebec City are the closest you can get to Europe in North America. Old Montreal stretches along the St. Lawrence River for more than 2.5 km and offers a variety of festivals, concerts, family activities, cruises and excursions, restaurants with terraces, an urban beach (Clock Tower Beach), the Montréal Science Centre, and even an IMAX theatre.
• Visit Old Quebec.  With 400 years of history, the pedestrian streets and fortifications, this historic neighborhood in Quebec City is a Unesco World Heritage Site very worth visiting. There are two walking tours, one inside the Walls and the other of Parliament Hill and area. Each lasts two to three hours.
• Engage in Montreal's bagel wars . In my opinion, Montreal bagels are the best bagels in the world. The question is, are they better from Fairmount Bakery or St-Viateur Bagel? You need to taste both to decide.
• Jazz, Comedy, Art. Montreal is an incredibly cultural city that's safe and really walkable. Don't miss Mount Royal, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, and more, including annual events such as the Montreal International Jazz Festival and the Just for Laughs comedy festival.
• Explore Abitibi-Temiscamingue . Get out of the big cities and experience some smaller communities, like Ville-Marie. Meet the artists and artisans of Abitibi-Temiscamingue and discover delicious food, creative arts, fascinating history, and interesting people.
• Ski! Mont Tremblant in the Laurentian mountains north of Montreal is Quebec's most popular ski resort but there are dozens of others in the Laurentians, the Eastern Townships, east of Quebec city, and elsewhere in the province. Read Mont Tremblant: The Perfect Winter Getaway . Mont Tremblant is also a great summer destination, as Bettine discovered in Trembling in Tremblant: Exploring the Mountain My Way .

Ontario Has Much to Offer

• Don't miss TO.  Toronto is the largest and most diverse city in Canada, where more than 140 languages are spoken. This diversity makes for a rich cultural, political, and culinary scene. For specific tips on visiting Toronto, read  Enjoy a Layover in Toronto: A Local’s Guide to the Best Things to Do . There's some great cycling in and around the city:  Bike Ontario: Rail Trails Make it Easy
• Visit wine country.  If you travel solo in Canada, you must try the wines. Ontario has three primary wine regions: Niagara Peninsula, Prince Edward County and Lake Erie North Shore. Take your pick.
• Live history.  You have plenty of options for exploring the history of Ontario through historical parks, forts, and castles. There’s Kingston’s Fort Henry, Thunder Bay’s Fort William, and Morrisburg’s Upper Canada Village to name just a few.
• Camping and hiking. Algonquin Park is the largest and most famous of the provincial parks of Ontario but there are dozens more that offer spectacular hiking, canoeing, and camping in summer and cross-country skiing and snow shoeing in winter. And, if you can, go to Georgian Bay for the beauty of the Canadian Shield and windswept trees.
• Adventure in Ontario . There are many opportunities for more adventurous activities in Ontario. Read about these and more in Sensational Ontario Getaways for Solo Travelers .
• A solo road trip is in order . Although you could easily spend a week in Toronto, driving just a couple of hours outside the city is so worth it. Taste your way through the Oxford County Cheese Trail. Try your hand at Fly Fishing on the Grand River. Enjoy tasty food and farm country views in Huron County. Or go north and discover  Interesting Sudbury Attractions: The Famous Son and More .

Don't Miss Manitoba

• Urban Winnipeg. The coldest capital city in the world is only really cold in the winter. When there, go to  The Forks National Historic Site  which is a hub for community life and celebrations, dinner, and a wander.
• Visit the Museum for Human Rights.  Winnipeg is also home to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights , which is the first Canadian museum solely dedicated to the evolution, celebration, and future of human rights.
• Go north for the wildlife. See  polar bears  in the wild near Churchill, Manitoba. It also offers beluga whales, bird watching, and spectacular views of the Northern Lights.
• Enjoy the great outdoors. If you're the outdoorsy type, Manitoba has lots to offer you, including hiking, skiing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, dog-sledding, rock and ice climbing, even an Arctic Discovery safari. Travel Manitoba has all the info.

Top Tips for Traveling Saskatchewan

• Enjoy big sky country.  The prairies have a very particular kind of beauty with long, flat vistas and huge skies. Take time to appreciate it. It's an essential sight when you travel solo in Canada.
• Go to the Muddy Badlands . Located near the border with the United States in a province that is known for being flat is  Big Muddy and the Outlaw Caves  where there are weathered buttes, cone-shaped hills, steep cliffs, eroded clay formations, and sandstone concretions that resemble petrified tree trunks.
• Learn about the Indigenous peoples of Saskatchewan.  The  Wanuskewin Heritage Park  is in the process of becoming a World Heritage Site. It's located at a bison jump and gathering place that is thousands of years old.
• Regina and Saskatoon . The two largest cities in Saskatchewan are Regina and Saskatoon. In Regina you can learn the real history of the Mounties at the  RCMP Heritage Centre .
• Take a road trip . For those looking for something different, doing a solo road trip in the Canadian prairies can be a magical experience. Here's a recommended route: A Prairie Road Trip: Exploring Manitoba and Saskatchewan Solo .

Discover Western Canada in Alberta

• Start with our Travel Guide to Western Canada . There's a section on Alberta in it.  Solo Travel Guide to Western Canada: British Columbia and Alberta
• Hike or ski!  Alberta is a year-round outdoor adventure province. The mountains offer fantastic hiking and skiing for all levels of ability in Banff and Jasper National Parks as well as many places in between. For summer travel in Banff, consider this post:  Too Many Tourists in Banff? Here’s What to Do .
• Visit the Icefields  – Drive the Icefields Parkway to reach the Columbia Icefields and the Athabasca Glacier. You can take a Brewster Ice Explorer Bus Tour to visit Alberta’s newest attraction, The Glacier Skywalk. Read  Glaciers, Mountains & Lakes: Driving the Icefields Parkway .
• Stay in luxury at a railroad hotel.  In the early days of the railway, hotels were built across the country to entice people to take the train. Alberta has three of these hotels at Banff (go to the hot springs while you're there), Lake Louise, and Jasper.
• Visit Calgary or Edmonton . Edmonton is the province's capital and Calgary its financial center. They are both hockey towns and both have exciting arts and cultural scenes.
• Take a road trip . There's no better way to discover Canada than by taking one of many great road trip options. Read  Border to Border in Alberta: A Western Canada Road Trip .
• Explore the Canadian Badlands .  Covering the area from Drumheller to the Saskatchewan border and south to the United States, this region contains the world’s largest deposits of dinosaur bones, unique and varied landscapes, and interesting arts and history. Learn more in  Facing Fear and Finding Spirit in the Canadian Badlands .

Solo Travel in Canada: Visit Beautiful British Columbia

• Start with our Travel Guide to Western Canada . There's a section on British Columbia in it.  Solo Travel Guide to Western Canada: British Columbia and Alberta
• Take a drive . I love driving and it doesn't get much better than when on a road trip across the Rockies from Calgary to Vancouver and beyond to Vancouver Island. You can read about it here: British Columbia Road Trip Across the Rockies to Vancouver Island .
• Golf your way around the province. There are   16 BC golf courses ranked in the top 100 in Canada according to SCOREgolf.com. They are located all over the province.
• Adventure in natural British Columbia.  A grizzly bear feeding on salmon in the wild, a whale breaching just off a kayak's bow, eagles gathered in their thousands: there is big drama in BC's nature. You can find a wildlife tour here. Read  Adventure Travel in Western Canada .
• Aboriginal Culture.  From the Haida and Tsimshian of the North Coast to the Nuu-chah-nulth of Vancouver Island and the Stó:lō, Secwepemc, Okanagan, and Ktunaxa people inland, British Columbia is home to Canada’s most diverse composition of First Nations bands, languages, and societies.  Indigenous Tourism BC  can help you plan your experience.
• Take a wine tour.  The Okanagan is BC's premier grape growing region. There are close to 200 wineries in the Okanagan Valley with over 80 grape varieties. All wineries offer tastings and organized wine tours can be booked. Find out more about BC wines .
• Take a break in Whistler . Solo Travel Society member Catherine highly recommends it in this post about her Weekend Getaway to Whistler, BC .

Gurdeep Pandher , “sending joy, hope, and positivity across Canada and beyond” from his cabin near Whitehorse, Yukon. It's hard to think of anyone who has done more to promote Yukon and Canada or to keep up our spirits in 2020-2021.

The Northern Territories of Canada

There is much more to Canada than just the 10 provinces. Geographically I've missed much of the country, namely the north. However, at this point in time I don't feel qualified to offer my tips on the northern territories. For now, read  Solo Travel to Whitehorse: Highlights & No Lights in Canada’s North . You can also have a look at tourism sites for Yukon , Nunavut , and the Northwest Territories .

If you have traveled solo to Canada's north, we'd love for you to contribute your experience. You can use our easy online form to upload your story and photos.

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• Canada Travel Tips: For A Perfect Holiday In The Largest Country Of North America

11 Jun 2023

Traveling to a country is not just about enlisting your places of interest and making the bookings in the best possible hotels. The task is much more mammoth if one really wants to have fun and avert any unnecessary hassles. Every country poses some challenges to its travelers owing to the difference in culture, climatic conditions, and the terrains. It is quintessential to be ready for any such circumstance so as to make the best out of your holiday plan.

10 Things To Know Before Visiting Canada

Canada is no exception when it comes to the perils of climatic conditions and other issues concerning almost all foreign countries. Following the enlisted Canada travel tips can assure tourists some unhindered and obstacle-free thrills in this country which has bountiful offerings in its store.

1. WEATHER SCARE

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It is vital that one checks and gauges into the details of the climatic condition which are going to prevail in the country during their period of travel. In CanadaNovember to February is generally characterised by heavy snow fall and avalanches. If you are into snow and want to enjoy the thrills offered by the snow laden cliffs, do not forget to pack appropriate clothes and snow boots. While zeroing on to travel mode their snow friendliness should be checked so as to avoid any mishaps.

Must Read: Top Beaches In Canada That Remain Unavoidable For The Ardent Beach Lovers

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2. TRAVEL SECURITY

Travel Insurance is a big must while travelling to Canada . The extreme climate and the terrains might create a situation when one needs to avail the medical facilities. While taking the travel insurance be sure that you get the details about the local medical practitioners and associates in the region you are travelling. This makes prompt medical help easy and can save one in case an issue surfaces.

3. VISA PROCEDURES

Some countries have visas on arrival and others need an extensive documentation process to be undertaken before a visa can be granted for entry into their geographical area. The visa process for Canada is quite stringent and requires one to follow all the guidelines and document requirements as mentioned on their official visa website. Follow all the specification and apply for the Visa to avoid rejection. For a number of nationalities electronic travel authorisation is needed to get entry into Canada.

Suggested Read: Feel On Top Of The World At This Suspension Bridge On Whistler Mountain In Canada

4. EMERGENCY CONTACT

A tragedy can strike anytime, anywhere. Since Canada has a very diverse kind of civilization with towns, cities, small villages and even animals thriving in perfect harmony, reaching quick help might get difficult. Thus amongst an important Canada travel trip stands the need for travellers to identify whom and where to contact in need. For emergencies 911 can generate quick help in Canada and for issues which are not that urgent one can find respite by contacting 311.

5. ROAD SAFETY

Canada is known for its enthralling national parks, hiking trails and tracks. Most of the people travelling here like to drive their way around the country. Incidences of wild encounters have often been recorded on hilly terrains and they may pose a big threat to life. It is thus very crucial to identify the safest trail to follow and to know and read proper literature on how to react if you suddenly attract the attention of the residents from the wild.

Suggested Read: Canada Nightlife: A Traveler’s Guide To How Canadians Like To Party

6. MUGGER AND SNATCHERS

No country in this world is entirely safe and devoid of crime. While visiting Canada too, one might get mugged and lose important documents or money. This can be a real fun spoiler and can cause lot of inconvenience. It is a good move to keep the important documents like passports at the hotel and carry photocopy documents while travelling around. Carrying plastic money or travellers check is a safer option rather than physical notes.

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7. FIND THE EMBASSY

Another important Canada travel tips to keep in mind is to identify the area and contact number of your countries embassy. You might not need to use this contact, but if the need arises you will be more comfortable speaking to your own representatives in the foreign land.

Suggested Read: Go Glacier Kayaking In Canada & Live Your Craziest Fantasy Ever!

8. PLAN YOUR STAY

In the peak seasons a trip to Canada can actually burn a hole in your pocket if you have not made advance bookings. One of the most travelled places in the world, this country attracts an influx of tourists across continents. Not getting hotels and attractions booked can make you pay extra making your travel budget go hay-way.

9. SNOWBOARDING AND SKIING SAFETY

Canada is a paradise for snow sport lovers. The snow covered peaks provide the perfect playground for some adrenaline rush and creates lifetime memories. But as it is important to have fun it is equally important to check whether the activities are carried on by trained and licensed professionals or not, as otherwise one might be exposing himself to grave risk. These sports are quite dangerous and if one is not proficient at it he/she should take easier terrains and not cross the mentioned speed barometers.

Suggested Read: 12 Canada National Parks That Are Every Wildlife Enthusiast’s Dream!

10. LINGUISTIC AWARENESS

Knowing a bit of French can help you a great deal in moving around Canada. One does not have to be proficient with the language, but understanding some words of common usage can be really handy. Downloading a translator on phone can make you accomplish this task easily.

Further Read: 11 Best Places To Visit In Canada In Winter For Experiencing The True Beauty Of Snow

Canada is a country which offers everything from natural thrills to adventures, adhering to these travel tips can help one in engulfing the best of this country in the most delightful manner. So, plan your trip to Canada with TravelTriangle and get the best holiday experience with your family and friends.

Disclaimer:  TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note:  Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Canada Travel Tips

What is the best time to visit Canada?

The best time to visit Canada is Summer – from late June to early September. It is also the peak season in Canada. The weather is pleasant and comfortable. But Winter, from January and February, is also a great time as the country turns into a winter wonderland.

Which are the top places to visit in Canada?

Some of the best places to visit in Canada are: 1. Niagara Falls 2. Quebec City 3. Whistler 4. Old Montreal 5. Banff National Park 6. Butchart Gardens 7. CN Tower

What are the popular things to do in Canada?

Some of the popular things to do in Canada are: 1. Walk on the Capilano Suspension Bridge 2. Niagara Fall cruise 3. Buffalo Lake boating 4. Hiking the Great Trail 5. Paragliding at Dawson Dome

Is there a connection between Niagara Falls NY to Canada?

Yes, there are two bridges that connect Niagara Falls NY to Canada – The Rainbow Bridge and Lewiston-Queenston Bridge. The former allows you to enter canada by walking, driving, or biking. The latter is a drive-only bridge.

Which are the best nightlife places in Canada?

Some of the best places to witness nightlife in Canada are: 1. Montreal – Casa del Popolo, Bar Le Ritz PDB, House of Jazz 2. Toronto – Lost and Found, Maison Mercer Nightclub 3. Vancouver – Irish Heather, The Blarney Stone, Opus Bar 4. Calgary – Cowboys, The Hifi Club 5. Quebec City – Grande Allée, La Piazza, Maurice Nightclub

What is the cost for boat ride in Niagara Falls?

The cost for Niagara Falls boat ride is: 1. Adults (13 years and above): INR 1400 to INR 1500 2. Children (6-12 years): INR 800 – INR 900 3. Children (5 year and below): Free

Where can I go shopping in Canada?

Some of the best shopping places in Canada are: 1. Byward Market, Ottawa, Ontario 2. Yorkville, Toronto, Ontario 3. Old Quebec City, Quebec City, Quebec 4. St. Jacobs Farmers Market, Ontario 5. Yaletown, Vancouver, B.C. 6. Granville Island, B.C

Which are the Canadian dishes that one must try?

Some of the popular dishes of California are: 1. Canadian Bacon 2. Poutine 3. Salmon Jerky 4. Pierogi 5. California Roll

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Home » Destinations » North America » Canada » What To Pack For Canada: Your Canada Packing List For All Seasons

What To Pack For Canada: Your Canada Packing List For All Seasons

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Your Ultimate Canada Packing List Written By A Canadian!

If you are wondering what to pack for Canada, you are not alone! Planning a Canada trip can be super exciting – but packing can be difficult.

This is because Canada is a massive country with very different climate regions. To make this more difficult, the different regions have different weather even though the month might be the exact same.

Winter in Vancouver sure is different than winter in Toronto or Montreal!

Lisa learned this firsthand when she moved to Canada. She arrived in the summertime in Ontario (very hot) and stayed until the winter (very cold and snowy)! She’ll be the first to tell you that it was hard to pack for those seasons all in one go.

So, to help you figure out what Canada essentials items need to be on your packing list for Canada, you’ve got a born and raised Canadian here at P&P.

Whether you are just visiting, studying abroad, or moving here for good, here’s what you should pack for Canada for each season and region.

Also, remember: If you hold an EU passport, you will need an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter Canada – lots of other passports also require this.

We would recommend that you apply for your eTA on the official government website. There are third-party providers but oftentimes they charge a ridiculously high fee. It should cost you 7 CAD to apply for an eTA, not 50.

Table of Contents

Luggage – Suitcase or Backpack?

One of the first things you will need to think about is what kind of bag you’re bringing over. The kind of bag you bring to Canada will be dictated by a number of factors like:

• The season you are travelling in
• The activities you will be getting up to
• How much clothing/gear you need/are bringing
• Your personal travel style/preference

Below, we dive a bit more into the kinds of luggage and why you would bring them (or not) if you are packing for Canada.

Keep in mind that these are general guidelines that mostly follow common sense but ultimately you do what you have to do to travel comfortably and in your own way!

Traditional/Wheeled Luggage

If you are travelling to Canada for a city (hopping) vacation, then a traditional suitcase or wheeled luggage might do.

If you are just visiting Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, etc and only going from the airport to a hotel and back again, a simple wheeled luggage is the way to go in the spring, summer, and fall seasons.

Don’t expect to be able to wheel your luggage through the snowy sidewalks in major cities like Montreal or Quebec City in the winter.

Lisa has a smaller suitcase with four wheels that she has had for years and really likes since it is the perfect size for airline weight restrictions.

She has also brought it to Canada when moving there for a few months. Unfortunately, the exact model does not seem to be available anymore, but this suitcase is very similar to hers.

Backpack/Soft Duffel

If you plan on camping, hiking, or generally being rougher with your gear, then a soft backpack or duffel bag might be more for you.

There’s a good chance you know beforehand if you are city hopping or hiking around the Rocky Mountains in Alberta and British Columbia.

If you are doing both, consider taking a backpack or duffel since a backpack can work in the city but a wheeled piece of luggage won’t be as convenient in the wilderness!

We really love our larger backpacks for travel. Lisa has her classic Osprey Farpoint 40 that she loves while Eric has his MEC (Canadian company) backpack.

The nice thing about our larger backpacks is that they are still small enough to take as carry-on luggage on most airlines.

This means we don’t usually check a bag. We have a longer guide on finding a great travel backpack for you if you are interested.

Carry-On Luggage

Speaking of carry-on bags, another item you want to think about for Canada is your carry-on bag (if you are flying). Often, a backpack makes a great carry-on bag.

A good carry-on backpack has double usage in Canada since it can also serve as a great day pack. Backpacks are good for both city hopping and for hiking – so keep that in mind when choosing your carry-on item.

Our daypack that we love and use most of the time now is our  Northface Borealis Backpack .

It was originally Lisa’s but Eric has recently taken it over and used it as his carry-on backpack and also a day pack for day trips. It’s awesome for holding work-related things as well as clothing.

If you considering also bringing a  (Small) Purse/Handbag , then you might consider one like Lisa’s.

She brings a small black cross-body bag on most of her trips that she uses when out in the city, meeting with friends, etc. It is easy to toss it into her larger backpack during flights since it doesn’t take up too much room. 

Need More Help With Bags? –   Here’s Our Guide to Great Day Packs  

Canada Packing List: Essentials For Any Season

So far we have covered what kind of luggage you might bring over (based on season and activities).

Now we can dive into the essential items that should be part of your Canada packing list – regardless of the season you are travelling in. We will cover the seasonal additions in the sections below that.

How many items of the same category (e.g. underwear, socks,…) you are bringing depends on how long you are travelling for and whether you have a washing machine available.

We usually never take more underwear and socks than for a week even when we are travelling for months on end. These items can always be hand-washed if they have to. 

Documents 

When packing for your Canada adventure, you shouldn’t just think about clothes. There are some items and documents that are just as important (if not more important) than your clothing items. 

• Valid Passport –  When visiting Canada you have to make sure that you bring your valid passport. For people from the EU that are used to travelling around the Schengen area with their ID cards – this will not suffice for Canada. You  need  a passport.
• eTA –  As mentioned above, lots of citizenships require an eTA when entering Canada by air. You can  check here whether you need an eTA or a visa to enter Canada. 
• Proof of Insurance –  When visiting Canada you should make sure to take out foreign health insurance or travel insurance to make sure that you are covered in case of emergencies. If you have a blue EU health insurance card it won’t be enough.
• Bank Card(s) –  We don’t usually get a foreign currency before we arrive in the country. Taking out the money directly from an ATM gives us a much better exchange rate. Lisa has a card from her German bank DKB that doesn’t have any fees when using it abroad. Make sure to bring a similar card and/or a credit card since lots of purchases can be paid with Credit Card in Canada.
• Drivers License + International License  (if renting a car)  –  If you are planning on renting a car, then you have to bring your drivers license and in some cases an international drivers license as well. You can request an international drivers license in your home country before you leave. To look for a great rental, you can start your search here .

The essential clothing items on your Canada packing list are not really that different from any other packing list.

In fact, most of these items you can also find on our Europe packing list . It’s below in the season-specific sections that we will dive into the differences you need to think about when it comes to clothing to pack.

• Pants – pants are important, but there are different types of pants you should bring. That is also determined by activity.  Active Pants  (like a yoga pant ) are good for hiking and moving, as well as to put under other pants for warmth and for lounging around. Jeans are good for everyday exploring and can be worn out dressed up or down. They also don’t usually need ironing which is a big plus for some! Lisa loves her Levi 711 Jeans . If you plan on going to nice dinners and whatnot, a  dress pant or chino isn’t a bad idea to bring along! We go into other types of pants in the seasonal sections.
• Shirts – like pants, shirts are important, too. The shirts/tops you bring are dictated by season/weather and activities. A combination of basic t-shirts and longer sleeve shirts are great for various temperatures. T-shirts are good for hot summer days while long sleeves are better for fighting off the bugs in the cool summer evenings. If you plan on going for nice drinks or dinners while city hopping, consider nicer dress shirts or tops . In general, pack so you can layer your clothing – meaning you can take layers off as the day warms up and put them back on as it cools down.
• Socks – lighter socks are always a good item to have. Season depending, the thickness might change. We will cover this below.
• Underwear – pretty standard item, you do you.
• Fleece Jacket –  a fleece jacket is an item you should bring for any season. It can be an outer layer for long summer nights and cooler spring/fall days. In the winter it works great as a middle layer underneath your warm winter coat. 

The kinds of shoes you will be packing for Canada depends largely on which activities you plan on doing and on the season you are travelling in. We’d recommend that you bring a comfortable shoe or boot that is good for walking, hiking, etc.

Lisa has a pair of Merrell hiking shoes that she loves. If you are travelling in the winter, a warmed boot is a must whereas a sneaker/running shoe is good for summer.

Your toiletries won’t really change that much with the season. However, we do recommend that you buy sunscreen and/or  bug repellent if you are planning on spending time outside during the spring and summer months. 

• Small Toiletries Bag –  We like travelling with small toiletries bags since it means that we won’t be able to bring a whole bunch of unnecessary things that we won’t use anyway (for Lisa this means mainly make-up).
• Toothbrush +  Toothpaste –  Don’t forget to bring your toothbrush and remember that your toothpaste has to be under 100ml if you want to put it in your carry-on luggage. We like travelling with travel toothbrushes like these ones that fold int themselves. 
• Face Cream (with SPF) –  wearing a face cream with SPF is important even in the winter. When you spend a lot of time outside and the snow reflects the winter sun, you can actually harm your skin if you don’t protect it. 
• Shampoo –  make sure you bring shampoo and body wash if you don’t want to go out shopping once you arrive in Canada. Depending on the length of your trip, you should consider bringing travel sized bottles as this will save you space and weight in your suitcase. You can use small bottles like these . 
• Deodorant – don’t forget to bring your deodorant if you like to use a special brand. You can always buy a deodorant once you arrive in Canada (at Shopper’s Drugmart for example), but they might not have your preferred style/brand – especially if you are European and like to use spray deodorants.
• Razor – if you shave regularly make sure to bring your razor. In case it is an electric razor, remember that you might have to bring  an adapter for the plug as well.
• Hairbrush –  Make sure you don’t forget your hairbrush. Lisa has a small travel sized hairbrush like this one which she has taken on all of her travels over the last 18 months. 
• Make-up  (if applicable)  –  If you wear make-up, make sure to bring what you need when travelling. Lisa always tries to only pack a minimal amount of make-up when travelling. In the summer it can get quite humid, so bringing a heavy liquid foundation might not be the best call. 
• Medication  (if applicable) – In case you have to take any medication regularly, make sure to bring enough so it lasts for the duration of your trip. If possible, bring the pills in the original packaging so it is easy for border security to find out what you are bringing into the country if they do end up checking your bag. 

Electronics/Other Travel Items

There are a number of other travel items and electronics that you might want to bring along. We thought that it’s useful to give you a full packing list here so we’ve included them below:

• Computer/Tablet + Charger – if you are travelling for work or just like having a tablet with you, be sure to bring your computer. Canada overall has Wifi so you don’t have to worry about not being connected.
• Phone   + Charger  – this one probably goes without saying, but a phone is an essential item these days. Google Maps is great for looking up where you are trying to get to in Canada – whether downtown Toronto or on a hiking trail (and you have cell service).
• E-reader   + Charger  – if you are a traveller who likes to read, you’ll know that books are pretty darn heavy. Lisa has a Kindle and she really likes it. It’s lightweight and holds a pretty good charge. 
• Camera + Charger – we’re big into photography and taking photos on our travels. Canada is definitely a country worth photographing. The Rocky Mountains are absolutely stunning, as are the lakes in Ontario, as is the Coastline on the East Coast. Lisa has a Fujifilm X-T10 (a mirrorless camera) while Eric has a Nikon D3300 (a DSLR) . We love them both.
• Sunglasses – these are an essential item for many seasons. The hot summer sunshine can be pretty bright BUT the sunshine in the winter is also very bright. In fact, it’s important to wear sunglasses in the winter when it’s super sunny since the sun reflecting up off the snow can cause a condition called “snow blindness”. You do NOT want snow blindness.
• Converter/Adapter –  if you are coming from Europe to Canada, you will need an adapter to fit the North American-style “two flat prong” plus. We like this adapter since you can charge a bunch of USB-based charging products (phones, etc) at the same time! The voltage in North America is also different than in Europe but most electronics can work with both (double check the lable!).
• Memory Card –  memory cards are important for storing memories… from both cameras and video cameras, if you use them. We trust SanDisk memory cards . Other kinds have created errors and we’ve lost photos before which was quite sad. 
• Travel Pillow/Blanket – a travel blanket is a good item for the plane but it’s also good if you get cold while on a bus or just hanging out in your accommodation in the winter. It can also double as a picnic blanket in the summer sunshine! We have a whole post on the best lightweight travel blankets if you want.
• Snacks – usually we cut up vegetables and make sandwiches. That said, Canada can be pretty picky with bringing in fruit, vegetables, cheese, and other raw/uncooked items like meats, etc. So, either eat any perishables before you land OR just buy classic snacks like crackers, chips, etc. 

Got Loads of Cords? –   Look into a Travel Cord Organizer.

Canada Packing List: Seasonal Travel Items

Keep in mind that the seasons give you different climates depending on where you travel to. This is something we cover in our post on the best time of year to travel to Canada .

For example, winter in Ontario can be quite cold and snowy but winter in Vancouver is rainier like a maritime climate (such as in Scotland).

Canada is a massive country so making generalizations about climate and weather is almost impossible!

That’s why we are breaking down seasons below – and we’ll talk about what to pack for the different cities and provinces, too.

Spring And Fall Additions 

Since spring and fall are generally the same climates, we’ve grouped them together here. It’s going to be cooler for sure – with a winter thaw likely happening in the spring and cooler winds in the fall.

• A Waterproof/Resistant Jacket – having a good outer layer, like Eric’s Northface , is pretty important for these two seasons. A light, water-resistant jacket can act as a windbreaker on the East Coast or a rain guard in the rainy spring in Ontario.
• Waterproof Boot/Shoe – having a rubber boot might be a good idea for springtime since the melting snow can make the ground very damp. These kinds of boots also work well for hiking since they have a tread for taking on the mud AND they tend to be warmer which makes them a good fall footwear choice, as well.
• Light Gloves – these seasons are when you could use those  tech tip gloves we talked about. Having a fall glove just keeps the hands toasty warm without having to put on a massive winter glove.

Summer Additions

Summer in Canada can be pretty hot – but this also depends on where you are.

Summer in Ontario can get VERY hot while summer on the West Coast (Vancouver) can be cooler but still pleasant and not as humid as in Ontario.

Knowing this can help you plan and pack for Canadian summers at the cottage or on the coast.

• Shorts – summertime heat is definitely a place for wearing shorts in Canada. If you are coming from Europe, there’s a chance you are used to wearing pants even when it’s hot. You still can do this, but summer humidity in parts of Canada (like Ontario) is awful in long pants and you will want shorts.
• Dresses – If you enjoy wearing dresses, bringing one or two to your trip to Canada is a fantastic idea. As mentioned above, the humidity in the summer can be bad so wearing dresses over pants can be a big relief. 
• Bathing Suit – is definitely a summer essential item if you plan on doing any swimming. Canada has literally millions of lakes so there are plenty of places to go in for a dip.
• Lighter Walking Shoes  and  Sandals  – aside from a lighter shoe for walking or hiking, we’d recommend a good sandal. You can opt for a hiking-style sandal that is multi-purpose of just simple flip-flops if you will be at the beach or cottage. Lisa has a pair of slip-on Toms with a sturdy sole that she has worn a lot during the summer in Canada. 
• Travel Towel – depending on where you are staying, a good travel towel can help you keep baggage weight down. These are also the best option for any summer excursion where you are out hiking, camping, or canoeing for a few days. 
• Hiking/Camping Gear – if you have really good gear and you are planning on bringing it over then by all means. An example might be your hiking poles or your sleeping bag. That said, anything summertime outdoor gear (like a tent, etc) can be bought or rented once you are here.

Backpacking in Canada? –   Get the Best Gadgets for Backpackers

Winter Additions

Ah yes, winter in Canada. As we have mentioned above, it can get pretty cold in places like the East Coast, Quebec, Ontario, and the middle parts like the Prairies.

The West Coast is generally more rainy than snowy when it comes to winter so you should dress warmly but expect to get wet before you’d freeze death.

Here are a few winter-specific items that are essential for Canadian winter travel:

• Warm Winter Boots  – If you are visiting Ontario, Quebec, the Prairies, the Rocky Mountains or parts of Atlantic Canada, then you should really consider bringing some warm winter boots. Lisa has a pair of warm winter boots from the brand Tamaris that reach her shin and they have kept her feet warm and dry on all of our Canadian winter adventures. We couldn’t find them online anymore (they are a few years old), but these ones are pretty similar. 
• Warm Winter Coat  – Similar to winter boots, you should bring a warm winter coat if you plan on visiting any of the colder regions. Last winter we had lots of days with temperatures at -10 °C (14 °F). During that time Lisa was glad that she has her Didriksons coat which keeps her nice and warm. We also couldn’t find the exact model online anymore (her jacket is a few years old), but this Didrikson coat looks very similar. 
• Hat – also called a “toque” in Canada, a good warm winter hat (with a pom pom or not) is a must-have. If you don’t want a full-on hat, ear muffs or a headband are mandatory if you are in places like Ottawa or Montreal. 
• Gloves/Mitts – we have “tech tip” gloves (mentioned above) which are great for using phones and generally having a usable hand. However, these are not warm enough if you are wandering a city at -15 Celsius or hiking/playing in the snow/skiing for a long period of time. For these activities, you will need  thicker winter gloves .
• Scarf – a scarf is a good idea since it’s important to keep bundled up and keep your neck warm.
• Long Underwear – you might consider thinner, long underwear to wear under your pants if it’s cold enough. This goes for walking around Ottawa or hiking in Banff. 
• Skiing Gear – same as with camping gear in the summer, if you are planning on skiing/snowboarding and you have your own great gear, then be sure to bring it along. That said, you can definitely buy or rent skis or other snow gear once you are here!

And there you have it – some of our best Canada packing list tips for your Canadian adventure. We tried to cover all the seasons and give you a good idea of what you might need for your trip.

In the end, every trip is different and everyone packs differently so look at this post as a guideline. 

Let us know how your trip goes and if there is anything we should include on this list for future travellers! We’d love to hear from you. 

As always, Canada Trip Packing, – L&E

Related Articles

If you are heading for Canada – YAY! – here are a few more posts to help you plan and get you ready to explore the country:

• The Best Canada Sightseeing Spots Across the Country
• Things to Know Before Travelling to Canada
• The best time of the year to visit Canada (by region!)
• Looking to Live and Work? A Canadian Working Holiday Visa Might Be For You
• Compare flights on Skyscanner
• Check for Hotel Deals or Book A Hostel
• Get A Rental Car (depending on the destination)
• Research plug types and possibly get a travel adapter
• Go over our packing list

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Toronto Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

With half of its 3 million population (6 million if you count the greater metro area) born outside of Canada and over 160 languages spoken in the city, Toronto is often considered to be the most multicultural city in the world. It offers tons of diversity and culture, with not only a Chinatown and Little Italy, but Greektown, Koreatown, Little India, Little Poland, Little Portugal, Little Malta, and more.

There are plenty of free and cheap activities that can make this an affordable place to visit too. The more I visit, the more I love it.

This travel guide to Toronto can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this incredible city.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Toronto

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Toronto

1. Visit the CN Tower

This iconic 550-meter (1,804-foot) tower is a fixture of Toronto’s skyline. Built in 1975, it was the world’s tallest free-standing tower from 1975-2007 (when the Burj Khalifa surpassed it). You can head up to the top to get spectacular panoramic views of the city and enjoy 360-degree views if the weather is good, and if you’re feeling daring, take the circular, hands-free edge walk 116 stories above Toronto. For a unique splurge meal with a view, their 360-degree rotating restaurant has two-course meals for 75 CAD and three courses for 90 CAD. Tickets cost 43 CAD.

2. Tour the Art Gallery of Ontario

Established in 1900, the AGO is home to almost 100,000 items in its permanent collection. It’s one of the biggest museums in Canada, with a rotating calendar of temporary exhibits as well as an artist-in-residence program. Admission is 25 CAD, except for Wednesday nights from 6pm-9pm when admission is free. Visitors 25 and under always enter free too. Get your skip-the-line tickets here .

3. Wander the Royal Ontario Museum

Home to over 6 million items and 40 different galleries, the ROM has exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient China, indigenous Canadians, Medieval Europe, Ancient Egypt, and much more. It’s the best museum in the city and fun for adults and kids alike. They have rotating exhibitions of photography, prints, modern art, and unique themes like the T-Rex exhibit. Tickets are 26 CAD .

4. Spend a day at the beach

The beaches of Lake Ontario are a relaxing place to spend the day during the summer. You can stroll along the boardwalk, eat at one of the many restaurants, or rent a boat and head out on the lake. The best beaches include Woodbine (Toronto’s most popular), as well as Canada’s famous nude beach, Hanlan’s Point, which is reachable by Hanlan’s Point ferry. For something more sporty, Cherry Beach, is the place for kitesurfing, kayaking, windsurfing, etc., and is reachable by bus. Lastly, Sunnyside beach is popular for picnics, stand-up paddle boarding, and its many cafes.

5. Enjoy Toronto Island Park

Spend an inexpensive day at Toronto Island Park and enjoy the city views, hang out on the beach, play volleyball, or picnic. Take a stroll down the boardwalk with its beautiful scenery of Lake Ontario, Thompson Park, and Ward’s Island Beach. Or take advantage of other activities like bird watching, boating, fishing, swimming, gardens, and hiking. There is also a small amusement park that’s great for kids. A return ferry ticket is 8.70 CAD, which can only be purchased online (the ride is just 10-15 minutes). Check ferry schedules as they are seasonal.

Other Things to See and Do in Toronto

1. take a free walking tour.

The first thing I do in a new city is to take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to see the main sights and connect with a local guide who can answer all my questions. Tour Guys offer 90-minute free tours that cover the main downtown sights and give you a solid introduction to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end! If you’d rather do a bike tour, 3.5-hour tours with Toronto Bicycle Tours cost 63 CAD.

2. Enjoy the Harbourfront Centre

This cultural hub is a great spot to visit during the warm summer months. Located on the water at Queens Quay, it hosts over 4,000 events a year, including many free festivals and concerts. Check their website to see what’s happening during your visit. There are also a couple of free art galleries with rotating exhibits (Artport and The Power Plant) and in the winter, they create an outdoor skating rink here too.

3. Bike the Don Valley

These trails are perfect for any outdoorsy travelers. The trails range from easy to very hard and are accessible from the city (beginning at the intersection of Lakeshore Blvd and Cherry St.). While on the trails, you’ll not only enjoy being in an urban green space but you’ll also be treated to a mini art gallery of ever-changing outdoor art installations. If you’re not into biking, there are also walking and running trails. Check out the park map to plan your route .

4. Go ax throwing

If you’re looking for a unique way to spend an afternoon, the city has a couple of different ax-throwing venues, such as BATL, where you can book a timeslot and then compete against your friends in an ax-throwing competition. Think of it like bowling, but with throwing axes. You don’t need to bring your own ax (but you can) and you can also bring your own drinks too! It’s a fun way to spend a couple of hours. One hour costs 30 CAD per person.

5. Wander Kensington Market

One of the oldest and most well-known neighborhoods in the city, this bohemian and multicultural hub offers an eclectic mix of alternative restaurants, street food stalls, and unique shops. There are often free concerts and festivals here during the summer too. It’s one of my favorite places to wander around ( you can take a tour around the area too ). Don’t miss Bunner’s Bakeshop if you have a sweet tooth!

6. See the Hockey Hall of Fame

Canadians take two things seriously: hockey and hockey. Opened in 1943, this museum is dedicated to the history of their favorite sport. It is both a museum and a hall of fame, full of memorabilia, artifacts, and even an interactive game where you can test your slapshot against a virtual goalie. Admission is 25 CAD.

7. Explore St. Lawrence Market and Gallery

Originally established in the early 19th century, this historic public market has endless rows of local treats to taste and buy. . There are three different sections: the North Market, South Market, and St. Lawrence Hall. With over 100 vendors, the markets have everything from bakers, butchers, artisans, produce stalls, and on Sundays, there’s an antique market with over 80 antique dealers. Food tours are available as well . The Market Gallery is located on the second floor above the markets and inside you can learn about the evolution of the city via historical documents, film, photography, and artifacts. Admission to both is free.

8. Eat Chinese food

Toronto’s Chinese community is one of the largest in the city, making up over 12.5% of Toronto’s population. As a result, Chinatown in Toronto is gigantic and still retains a lot of the authenticity that’s missing in many other Chinatowns around the world. After the original Chinatown was demolished in the 1950s to make way for government buildings, the local Chinese population relocated to the intersection of Spadina and Dundas Street West. Definitely visit and eat a few meals — they are delicious and super cheap. For tasty eats, don’t miss Mother’s Dumplings, Happy Lamb Hot Pot, and Red Room.

9. Visit the Ontario Science Center

This interactive museum is perfect for anyone traveling with kids. There’s an indoor rainforest, tornado machine, soundproof tunnel, balance testing machines, planetarium, tons of interactive exhibits, and so much more. There’s also an IMAX Dome which plays educational films. Admission is 22 CAD.

10. Tour the Steam Whistle Brewery

Steam Whistle Brewing is an award-winning independent brewery located in the historic John Street Roundhouse (previously a steam locomotive repair facility), near the Rogers Center and CN Tower. The brewery offers tours for 20 CAD (which includes a sample of their beer). Tours operate on a first-come, first-served basis and can be booked in advance on their website. There is even an art gallery on-site, showcasing local artists. Check out the Steam Whistle Biergarten and Taproom and enjoy a beer and some tasty food like burgers, pasta, fish and chips, or their Steam Whistle brined chicken with gravy.

11. See Casa Loma

Constructed between 1911-1914, Casa Loma is the former estate of Sir Henry Mill Pellatt, an entrepreneur and soldier. Touring this real-life ‘medieval’ castle is awesome. There are four levels to check out through a self-guided tour. Highlights include an indoor conservatory with its own fountain, and the Oak Room, an ornate drawing room with tons of wood paneling that took over three years to complete. They also host an amazing haunted house here every Halloween. Admission is 40 CAD ( get your tickets in advance here .)

12. Enjoy Canada’s Wonderland

Filled with rides, roller coasters, food, games, shops, theaters, a water park, and live shows, this is the largest amusement park in Canada and loads of fun. Located just 25 kilometers (15 miles) from the city, you’ll want to arrive early as the park fills up quickly in the summer! Tickets start at 29.99 CAD.

13. Catch a ball game

Toronto’s major league baseball team, the Blue Jays, have been doing quite well in recent years and their fan base has exploded. Last-minute tickets can be found online with prices for their spring training starting at 25 CAD. Located right downtown and on the waterfront, this is a great activity for sports fans.

14. Attend Word on the Street

Every September, Queen’s Park is host to Canada’s largest annual outdoor book and magazine festival. You can browse through hundreds of books, magazines, and literary exhibitor booths. There are also readings from famous authors like Margaret Atwood and David Suzuki. Admission is free.

15. See the Toronto International Film Festival

Toronto plays host to the stars every September, so if you’re in town be sure to grab tickets — there’s a good chance you’ll see some great films and you might just bump into a celebrity too! With almost 500,000 visitors, this is one of the largest film festivals in the world. Screenings cost 20-30 CAD, with discussions, workshops, and other events to attend as well. The festival has lots of volunteer opportunities available as well.

16. Gorge at Summerlicious & Winterlicious

Every summer and winter, the city’s best restaurants take part in a massive prix-fixe food festival. Over 200 restaurants take part, with plates starting at 23 CAD for a multi-course meal. It’s an amazing way to sample the city’s best dishes on a budget!

  For more information on other cities in Canada, check out these guides:

• Calgary Travel Guide
• Montreal Travel Guide
• Nova Scotia Travel Guide
• Ottawa Travel Guide
• Quebec City Travel Guide
• Vancouver Travel Guide
• Vancouver Island Travel Guide

Toronto Travel Costs

Hostels – Toronto only has a few hostels. Dorms with 6-8 beds cost between 30-45 CAD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard, and most hostels have self-catering facilities to cook your own food. A couple of hostels include free breakfast. Private rooms begin at 75-90 CAD per night.

Hotels – Budget two-star hotels start at 115-125 CAD per night. These usually include free Wi-Fi and basic amenities like a TV, coffee/tea maker, and occasionally a continental breakfast.

Airbnb is widely available in the city, with private rooms starting at 60 CAD per night, though they average closer to 100 CAD. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 140-180 CAD per night.

Food – The food here is a collage of dishes from other cultures, owing to the country’s diverse history of immigration. There’s a lively Chinatown, a Little Italy, Little Tokyo, Little Portugal, and much more. If there is a cuisine you’re craving, you can find it here. The city is also a hub for vegan and vegetarian fare, with much of it centered in Vegandale (a stretch of Queen Street with a host of vegan places). Be sure to sample some of Canada’s famous staples like poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curds), beaver tails (fried dough with maple syrup), Canadian bacon, and the oddly tasty ketchup chips.

A meal at an inexpensive restaurant is about 20 CAD for something like a burger and fries. A quick hot dog or sausage on the street (which are incredibly popular) costs 3-4 CAD. A three-course meal with a drink is at least 50 CAD.

McDonald’s (and other fast food) costs around 13 CAD for a combo meal. A medium pizza is 15-20 CAD while Chinese food costs 9-15 CAD for a main dish.

Beer is around 7 CAD while a latte/cappuccino is around 4.75 CAD. Bottled water costs 2 CAD.

If you cook for yourself, you can spend around 50-65 CAD on groceries per week, which includes basic staples like bread, veggies, rice, pasta, and some meat.

Some of my favorite restaurants include Bar Chef (high-end, innovative cocktail bar) and Planta Yorkville (upscale and plant-based).

Backpacking Toronto Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 70 CAD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like relaxing at the beach and taking free walking tours.

On a mid-range budget of 160 CAD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or hostel room, eat out more, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like visiting the ROM or the CN Tower.

On a “luxury” budget of 325 CAD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car or take more taxis to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in CAD.

Toronto Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Toronto is one of the most expensive cities in the country. However, like any big city, there are plenty of ways to save. Here are some tips to keep you from breaking the bank when you visit Toronto:

• Get a City Pass – Tourists can purchase a City Pass for 82.91 CAD that includes admission to the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, the Toronto Zoo, and more. You’ll save a ton if you’re planning to visit most of these attractions.
• Stay with a local – Toronto doesn’t have many hostels (and the hostels aren’t super cheap either) so try to Couchsurf with a local to save money. It’s a great way to learn more about the city and get insider tips from a local.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to ensure your water is always safe and clean.
• Eat street food – You can find cheap hot dogs for around 3-4 CAD all around the downtown core. Fill up on them if you’re on a budget.
• Skip the taxis – Taxis and rideshares in Toronto are expensive. Stick to the TTC (public transportation), which can get you anywhere you need to go.
• Visit the AGO on Wednesdays – The Art Gallery of Ontario is free on Wednesday evenings. If you want to visit, be sure to visit then to save money.
• Get a PRESTO card – This public transportation card costs 6 CAD but it offers discounts on rides as well as the ability to get a day pass (13.50 CAD), which saves you a ton if you plan on exploring the whole city.

Where to Stay in Toronto

Toronto doesn’t have a ton of hostels. Here are two suggested places to stay:

• The Only Backpacker’s Inn
• The Parkdale Hostellerie

How to Get Around Toronto

Public transportation – Toronto has a comprehensive system of buses, trams, and subways that link the entire city called the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission). Cash fares are 3.25 CAD or 3.20 CAD if you have a reloadable PRESTO card. You can purchase a day pass for 13.50 CAD with a PRESTO card as well (the card costs 6 CAD).

The TTC also manages the bus to Pearson Airport, which takes around 45-65 minutes from downtown and costs 3.25 (regular fare). There is also an express train to the airport called the UP Express. It costs 12.35 CAD and takes 25 minutes from downtown.

Taxi – Taxis in Toronto are expensive, starting at 4.44 CAD and costing an additional 1.75 CAD per kilometer. With traffic being relatively slow in the city, it’s best to skip the taxis.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Toronto.

Bicycle – Bike Share Toronto offers daily passes for 7 CAD and 72-hour passes for 15 CAD. They have over 7,185 bikes spread across 630 stations around the city. You can buy a pass via their app .

Car Rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 30 CAD per day. However, unless you’re planning to head out of the city, I would skip the car rental. Parking is expensive and you don’t need a car to get around.

When to Go to Toronto

Toronto is busiest in the summer, with June-August being the most popular time to visit. The beaches are open, there are tons of events and festivals, and the weather is hot (bordering on stifling due to the humidity). Expect daily averages around 27°C (80°F) though the humidity can make that feel well over 30°C (87°F).

Winters in Toronto are cold, windy, and snowy. It’s not a good time to visit if you want to do lots of outdoor activities, but you’ll avoid the crowds and flights are cheaper as well. Expect daily highs around -7°C (19°F) though it’s common to experience dips to -20°C (-4°F) as well.

Both early fall and late spring are excellent times to visit. The weather is warm, you can do all the outdoor exploration you want, and there aren’t many tourists around. Accommodation is the most plentiful and affordable around this time too and there are lots of farmer’s markets happening as well.

How to Stay Safe in Toronto

Toronto is very safe and you’re unlikely to have any problems while you’re here (it’s actually ranked as one of the safest cities in North America). Your greatest risk is a petty crime like pickpocketing. Just make sure you aren’t flashing your valuables around and that you keep an eye on your wallet when on crowded public transportation.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions you take anywhere apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For more information, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs in the city.

While no areas are off-limits, travelers might want to avoid walking around alone at night in the areas around Regent Park and Jane & Finch as you’re likely to have more petty crime in those areas late at night.

Scams are rare here, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about the common travel scams to avoid right here.

If you’re traveling in the winter, be careful as severe winter storms can occur. Conversely, in the summer, the city can get sweltering. Be sure to stay hydrated when walking around as the humidity can be taxing.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. If a taxi driver seems shady, get out. If your hotel or accommodation is seedier than you thought, go somewhere else. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The number for emergency services is 911.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Toronto Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Canada Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more information? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Canada travel and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in Quebec City: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

How to See Alberta: A 10-Day Suggested Driving Itinerary

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
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Everything you need to know before taking a road trip to Canada

Canada on July 19 said it would reopen its borders to fully vaccinated U.S. citizens beginning on Aug. 9.

It will be the first phase of a two-step reopening process.

U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have been fully vaccinated (14 days past the final dose) will be allowed to enter Canada for nonessential travel purposes beginning Aug. 9. Canada also said it intends to open its borders to citizens of other countries as of Sept. 7 if the pandemic doesn't worsen.

The government said it's using a "border testing surveillance program" at its air and land border crossings. Fully vaccinated travelers will not need to take a negative COVID-19 test upon entry unless they've been randomly selected to take one. You will, however, need to pack a negative test result in addition to your proof of vaccination. (More on that later.)

Canada might be a suitable option for Americans who haven't traveled during the pandemic. Because Canada is drivable from many parts of the U.S., it's an excellent option for people who want to get out of the country but aren't comfortable yet flying long distances.

Here's what you need to know about driving to a reopened Canada.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

How to enter Canada from the US

There are dozens of entry points by land into Canada from the U.S. But the most visited include the Windsor-Detroit border, Buffalo-Niagara Falls; Port Huron, Michigan; Maine; and Blaine, Washington, according to Bureau of Transportation Statistics data .

When you cross into Canada from the U.S. , a border agent will ask the purpose of your trip and whether you feel well. Travelers crossing the border by land must wear a mask, bring a negative test result, use the ArriveCAN app to upload proof of vaccination and follow border crossing procedures.

What documents do you need to drive to Canada?

Driving into Canada from the U.S. is relatively simple compared to other destinations.

Travelers driving into Canada from the U.S. must have a valid I.D., such as a U.S. passport. Unlike most of the world, a passport card is also accepted on the land border . Children under 16 need only show proof of U.S. citizenship. The following forms of identification are accepted for U.S. citizens:

• U.S. Passport
• U.S. Passport card (for land and marine travel only)
• Enhanced Driver's License (for land and marine travel only)

U.S. citizens who are members of the NEXUS program show their membership card as proof of identification when arriving in Canada by air (from the U.S.) land or sea. U.S. citizens in the FAST program can use their cards when arriving by land and sea only.

U.S. permanent residents are required to carry an electronic travel authorization (eTA) only when arriving in Canada by air. Their foreign passport must be linked to a valid eTA, and they must also travel with proof of their permanent resident status to qualify for a visa exemption.

Starting Aug. 9, fully vaccinated travelers won't need to take a negative COVID-19 test upon entry to Canada unless they've been randomly selected for testing. However, the pre-travel testing mandate remains in place even for vaccinated travelers. Travelers arriving in Canada by land or air need to take a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours of departure. Both PCR and RT-PCR tests are accepted , but antigen tests are not.

Unvaccinated children under 12 will be allowed to enter Canada but must submit their information electronically through ArriveCAN and meet all testing requirements. Travelers need to be able to provide a paper or digital copy of their vaccination documentation in English or French, according to the Canadian government .

Use Nexus to expedite arrival

If you're a U.S. citizen who visits Canada often, you may want to consider getting Nexus so you can also enjoy expedited customs processing there. It's a program between Canada and the United States for preapproved, low-risk travelers at designated air, land and sea ports of entry.

Nexus is 50% less expensive than Global Entry ($50 per adult and free for children under 18). However, you must enroll at a center along the Canadian border. Clearing Canadian customs and immigration can take a while, so this would save you a lot of time.

And once you have Nexus, either as a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you also get Global Entry and TSA PreCheck. Nexus is available at 21 land locations when entering Canada. However, the Canada Border Services Agency implemented temporary lane closures that will remain in effect until "further notice."

Global Entry

If you want to expedite your entry back into the U.S., you can also get Global Entry. You can enroll upon arrival at various airports in a handful of states , plus Canada, Ireland, the Bahamas, Abu Dhabi, Aruba and Bermuda.

Global Entry cards are acceptable at land points of entry for expedited entry into the United States via the SENTRI and Nexus lanes. However, you can't use your Global Entry membership to enter Canada through the Nexus lanes.

Coming back to the U.S.

Travelers coming back to the U.S. from Canada by land aren't required to have a negative COVID-19 test. However, travelers flying into the U.S. from Canada must provide a negative COVID-19 test taken three days before departure.

• EXPLORE Random Article

How to Travel to Canada on a Budget

Last Updated: December 13, 2022 References

This article was co-authored by Stef Katz . Stef Katz is a Travel Agent and the Founder of The Travel Superhero. She has helped clients enjoy convenience, access, personal attention, and ease in their travel planning for 6 years. Stef specializes in elevated social travel and finds ways to bring peace of mind to her travelers with open communication, genuine care, and professional support. She holds an Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts from Miami Dade College and a Bachelor's Degree in Marketing from the University of Florida, as well as numerous certifications with destinations, tour companies, and cruise lines in the travel industry. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 19,801 times.

Canada is considered one of the most friendly countries in the world, and for smart travelers, it’s also budget-friendly! Planning your trip to Canada is fun and easy, and even if you’re on a tight budget, you can spend time in major cities, enjoy the outdoors, and experience the unique culture of the country.

Getting Around

• As a general rule of thumb, if you’re planning on traveling to 3 or more cities, it’s a good idea to rent a car because you will be traveling longer distances to get to your destinations.
• If you choose to drive around Canada, try to get gas on Native Reserves because it tends to be cheaper. The reserves are subject to fewer taxes which reduces the overall price of gas. First Nation reserves are marked by signs on the highways, or you can locate them on a map. [2] X Research source

• Be aware that the Megabus tends to be slower and run late, so it may not be the most efficient option if you have a tight schedule.

• Budget airlines are able to offer low-cost tickets by eliminating the traditional frills of air travel, like checked baggage and in-flight snacks and drinks. Anything considered an amenity comes with a fee from the airline.
• If you don’t live near a major city, consider driving to the nearest major airport to save on the cost of an additional flight.
• If you’re located outside of the U.S. and Canada, WOW airlines offers flights from most European cities. Alternatively, you can book a longer flight with a traditional airline, then fly between cities on a budget airline.

• You can select to travel in economy class, which secures you a seat; business or touring class, which provides access to refreshments and larger seats; and sleeper class, which gives you a bed for overnight travel. [6] X Research source

Selecting Your Lodging

• Using a website like Airbnb gives you the security of background verification for hosts. Craigslist and Facebook groups don’t provide you with this, but they can be less expensive because they cut out the middleman.
• Prices will vary based on location and the number of people looking to stay at the home. Most inexpensive Airbnbs can comfortably sleep 2 people at a time.

• A drawback of couchsurfing is that you normally can’t reserve the couch in advance, so you risk not having a place to stay if an arrangement falls through. Be prepared with extra funds for a hotel in case this happens.
• If you’re considering couchsurfing, be sure to clarify the arrangement with the host. Try to set up a video or phone call before you arrive to discuss your stay with them and verify that they are who they say they are.

• If you’ve never gone camping before, make sure you have a sturdy tent, enough food, a portable cooktop, flashlights and sleeping bags. Always do a trial run of your campsite at home before embarking on your adventure!
• If you haven’t scoped out your campground in advance, look for signs along roadways that mark designated camping areas, provincial parks, or national parks. You can also consult a map to find these areas ahead of time.
• Camping might be less viable in the winter, especially for less-experienced campers. Don’t attempt to camp in the snow unless you’ve done it before, as it can be dangerous for your health without the proper protection.

• The price of the hostel will vary based on the location and time of year. In the off-season, you can get great deals on hostels, even in downtown city centers. Keep in mind that in cities like Vancouver, which is popular in the winter, the off-season is the summer.
• Hostels can be great places for making connections with other travelers and getting tips from locals. Don’t be afraid to ask around for suggestions, especially if you’re looking for fellow budget-conscious travelers!

• If you’re planning on taking a tour, make sure you wear your walking shoes and dress for the weather! They can be long, sometimes up to 2-3 hours, and the weather in some cities can change unexpectedly.

• If you’re traveling in the winter, don’t worry! Since Canada has long winters, they also have many cold weather festivals like the Igloofest in Montreal, WinterCity in Toronto, Festival du Voyager in Winnipeg, and Winterlude in Ottawa. [13] X Research source

• Canada is famous for the popular dish poutine, which is a plate of french fries with gravy and cheese curds. Many street vendors offer a variation of this dish, plus meats like hot dogs, sausage, and even veggie burgers!

• In the winter, you can go skiing, or rent a pair of snowshoes or cross-country skis for a low-cost excursion on one of the many public trails that remain open during the cold weather.
• In the cities, biking is a great and low-cost way to get around quickly. You can rent bikes for a few dollars a day or based on an hourly rate. Just be sure to return them when you’re finished!

• Some museums operate on a donation-basis, but it’s appropriate to give a few dollars to make sure the museum is compensated for their services. At these locations, it’s up to you to decide what’s a fair price!

• Sometimes new businesses will offer coupons on these apps to get people to try out their product. Keep your eyes out for new and fun experiences that might not be listed on popular travel blogs just yet!
• Think about what you want to experience in Canada and how you would like to experience it.
• Decide your dates of travel.
• Talk to your travel agent to find out whether you can get what you want in your budget or the closest you can get to it.

Expert Q&A

• Keep an eye on flight, train, or Megabus ticket prices, as they can vary from day to day. If you see a particularly low price, try to purchase as soon as possible! Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• If you’re traveling alone, always be aware of your surroundings and walk or bike on well-lit streets. Make sure a friend or loved one knows your location and can contact you if necessary! Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• If you’re traveling from the U.S. or another country, you’ll need a passport to be able to get into Canada. Make sure your passport is valid and you have the proper visas to enter the country. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-guides/canada-travel-tips/#tips
• ↑ https://globalnews.ca/news/3829068/low-cost-airlines-canada/
• ↑ http://www.bootsnall.com/articles/16-03/how-to-travel-across-canada-by-train-on-a-budget.html
• ↑ https://www.freshoffthegrid.com/how-to-find-free-camping-usa-canada/
• ↑ https://www.hayleyonholiday.com/solo-budget-travel-canadian-rockies/
• ↑ https://us-keepexploring.canada.travel/things-to-do/festivals-and-events-heat-up-winter
• ↑ https://www.tourismvancouver.com/activities/free-almost-free/25-free-things-to-do/

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6 Tips for Traveling Canada like a Local

By Soren Rivero

Canada is a spectacularly diverse country, and there's no better way to experience it than traveling like a local! To help you enjoy the most authentic Canada trip, here are some tips on how to travel like a local!

Group of people

Learn Some Canadian Slang

If you wanna blend in with the locals, you have to speak like ‘em!

You’ll most likely be hearing and communicating in North American English with a few dialectical changes. If you really want to mesh in with the others, the best way to do so is to learn some Canadian slang .

Learning some French might be in your best interest, too! Anytime you visit a new country, it’s respectful to learn a few words in the country’s native language(s). If you travel to the East and visit provinces such as Montreal, you’ll want to know just a few French words to help you get around. And who knows, maybe you’ll find the love of your life there! French is the language of love, after all...

Tim Horton's

Eat at Local, Small Restaurants

One of the absolute best things to do when visiting a country is to try the local cuisine. There’s so much to learn from it and you might even find your new favorite dish.

When you opt for local restaurants instead of chain restaurants, you get a real taste of authentic cuisines (such as poutine and beavertails) while supporting the underdogs. It’s a win-win for both situations, so why not try it out? Plus, what's the point of traveling if you're just going to eat the same fast food from home, right?

If you’re going to travel to Canada like a local, you also can’t miss out on their staple coffee spot, Tim Horton’s. When you take your first sip, it’ll feel like you’re immersing yourself in everything Canadian!

Manners and Etiquette

Be sure to keep in mind Canadian table manners. Keep your elbows off the table, cover your mouth when you yawn, and always say thank you! Tips are also necessary, with the standard being 15%.

Outside of restaurants, there are (of course) other things you should keep in mind, such as:

• No discussion of politics — this is a private matter in Canada
• Always be on time
• Don’t point at anyone
• Try to avoid overarching stereotypes
• When in doubt, be respectful

Canadians also greet each other with a handshake at their first meeting. Not too foreign of a tradition for those who already live in the West, but for others this might be a little unsettling. Just a fair warning, it is considered impolite to not shake someone’s hand whenever they extend it to you, so try your best!

Public transit

Rethink Your Commute

If you’re in a popular urban city such as Toronto, you can walk or bike to most destinations. But if you really want to fit in with everyone, take the bus! It’s the most common form of transportation in Canada and surely the most cost effective.

Niagara Falls

Avoid Popular Tourist Areas

An overwhelming number of tourists visit Niagara Falls, CN Tower, Old Quebec, and other popular tourist locations. This is where the biggest crowds are going to be, and while these attractions are definitely worth visiting, you won’t really get a sense of what it’s like to travel as a local.

So, how do you offset this? By visiting the lesser known hidden gems, of course! Visiting hidden gems gives you a better sense of how locals vacation around their country, and it helps you appreciate the small things in life!

Let’s face it, we can’t always take off our tourist disguise and transition into a local. There are going to be times when you feel off or confused, and that's okay!

The marvelous thing about traveling is being able to connect with people and learn from their culture. It’s perfectly fine to ask your hotel attendant or restaurant server for any tips about traveling around. Just be respectful, patient, and most importantly, have fun!

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10 tips for Canadians travelling to Europe in 2024, from visa requirements to tipping culture

P lanning a European vacation this year? Whether you're eyeing a summer trip spent Greek island hopping or you'll be heading to Paris this fall, there are plenty of things you'll want to keep in mind before you head out.

From entry rules to what to pack, there are quite a few key things that Canadians should be sure to prepare for if they're travelling overseas.

To help, we've laid out a few key tips for Canucks visiting Europe in 2024. Including requirements for your Canadian passport , how to get a tax refund and local tipping etiquette, here are 10 things to keep in mind before embarking on your trip.

Check visa requirements

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Before travelling to Europe, make sure you're aware of the entry requirements of the country or countries you'll be visiting.

While Canadians won't need a visa to visit most European countries, some have different rules when it comes to how long Canadians can visit visa-free .

For instance, in Schengen area countries such as Iceland, Italy, Portugal and Spain, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period and includes visits to any Schengen area country.

Other countries outside the Schengen area may have different rules. In the United Kingdom , for example, tourist visas are not required for stays of up to six months.

According to the Government of Canada, it's important to get your passport stamped when you first enter the Schengen area.

Without this, you may run into problems if you encounter the local police (or other authorities) anywhere in the Schengen area during your visit or with immigration officials when you depart.

Make sure your passport is valid

How long your passport needs to be valid for will also vary by country.

For instance, in Schengen zone countries, your Canadian passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the date you expect to leave the area.

Other European countries, such as Andorra , only require that your passport be valid for the duration of your stay.

Some countries in Europe are landlocked and without their own airports, meaning you'll have to also meet the entry rules of neighbouring countries in order to visit.

You can check the entry and exit requirements of a country by referring to Canada's travel advisory page .

Pack an adapter

Be aware that your Canadian appliances won't fit in the electrical outlets in Europe, which uses two round prong outlets unlike the flat pin outlets used in Canada.

A simple solution is to purchase a power adaptor or voltage converter beforehand. A voltage converter can also save you from potentially frying your hair dryer, as Europe uses 220 volts, compared to Canada's 110, according to the Travel Industry Council of Ontario.

If you're partial to Apple products, the company sells a World Travel Adapter Kit that you can buy on Amazon. However, you can get them from pretty much any travel store and even at the airport for last-minute shoppers.

It may be a good idea to bring more than one — that way, you can charge multiple items at once.

Travel with local currency

If you're travelling to Europe, you'll want to have some of the local currency on hand, which is especially important if you’re travelling outside big tourist cities to smaller towns.

While many European Union countries use the euro , some countries still use their own national currencies. Currently, the euro is the official currency of 20 out of 27 EU member countries which together constitute the Eurozone.

They are Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain.

There are also six countries that are part of the EU but use their own national currencies: Bulgaria, Czechia, Hungary, Poland, Romania, and Sweden.

Non-EU member countries, including Iceland, Norway, Switzerland and Liechtenstein, use their national currencies.

It's a good idea to check beforehand what kind of currency you'll need for your trip and to have some on hand.

Besides cash, you can usually also use your Canadian credit card when travelling in Europe, but be aware of differing conversion rates depending on the local currency.

Be aware of tourist fees

As a Canadian, there are certain fees you'll have to pay when visiting Europe that vary by country.

Many countries impose tourist taxes on foreigners in certain major cities, usually added to the price of the tourist's accommodation.

For instance, Barcelona in Spain charges a tourist tax that's levied on official tourist lodging and varies depending on the type of accommodation. As of April 2024, the tax is 6.75 euros (about CA$9.92) for five-star hotels, 4.95 euros for four-star hotels, and 5.50 euros for "housing for tourist use."

Other European countries including Switzerland, France, Portugal and Greece also charge tourist taxes. Check with your accommodation or the tourism board for each destination before travelling to be sure how much you need to pay.

Canadians will also have to soon pay a fee to visit 30 countries in Europe.

Starting in the first half of 2025, Canadians will have to pay a travel authorization called the ETIAS to travel to countries including Portugal, Belgium, Iceland, Greece, Italy, France, and Germany.

The ETIAS will allow travellers to stay in the territory of European countries requiring an ETIAS for up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

A full list of countries where the ETIAS will apply can be found on the European Union website .

Once it does come into effect, Canadians will be charged a fee of 7 euros (CA$10.29).

Get a VAT refund

Canadians visiting the EU who are about to leave EU territory to go home or to some other place outside the area may be able to buy goods free of VAT.

VAT, which stands for "value added tax," is a sales tax included in the price you pay for the goods you purchase while in the EU.

As someone who does not live in the EU, however, a Canadian traveller is eligible to buy goods free of VAT in special shops.

Generally, you will have to pay the VAT while shopping, but can get a refund on the tax.

The European Commission advises asking the shop assistant in advance whether they provide this service, and finding out what threshold applies to the purchase in order to be eligible for a refund.

To get your refund, you'll need to show your passport or other identity document proving your residence outside the EU, and will be asked to fill out a form.

You'll then receive an invoice for the goods which you must show to customs officers of the last EU country you leave in order to obtain the refund.

According to the European Commission, you can claim your VAT refund in bigger airports immediately; otherwise, you will have to send the refund form to the address given to you in the shop.

You can also get a refund on VAT when shopping in other European countries that are not members of the EU, such as Iceland and the U.K.

Know the local laws

Remember that different countries will have different local laws that you must abide by. Some apply to certain activities that may be perfectly legal in Canada, but could land you in hot water while abroad .

For instance, in Italy, certain municipalities — particularly those that see a high number of visitors like Venice, Rome, and Florence — have adopted strict public conduct rules, according to the Government of Canada .

In these areas, certain behaviours including sitting, eating or drinking on a monument or an archaeological landmark, walking in an urban setting in swimwear or without a shirt, and feeding pigeons are actually illegal.

Other European countries have their own rules for activities that would be innocuous in Canada. In Spain , some municipalities, including Barcelona, have banned beachwear outside of local beaches, and those caught could face on-the-spot fines.

Be sure to research the destination you're travelling to. You can consult the Government of Canada's travel advisories for information regarding local laws and culture.

Understand tipping etiquette

While tipping is practically obligatory in Canada, tipping culture is much different in Europe.

While it varies by country, generally, tips are not expected in Europe as they are in Canada.

"For most, tips are not expected in Europe, and it's fine not to tip at all, especially in more casual settings like bars or cafes," says ETIAS.com .

The website lays out tipping etiquette in several popular European destinations. For example, in France, tips are not obligatory, it says, and diners instead may notice a " service compris" or "service included" fee equivalent to 15 percent of the bill added to their cheque.

That said, diners may want to still leave something small to show their appreciation; in this case, they can simply round up the bill to the next euro, a common practice for when a larger tip may not be warranted.

For other country-specific tipping information, travellers can look to the local tourism board for their destination, which will often have information on local tipping etiquette.

Consider a budget airline

While Canada doesn't have many budget airlines flying to Europe, in 2023, Play Airlines launched its first flights from the True North, offering Canucks cheap flights to over 30 European destinations.

With Play, you can fly from Toronto to destinations like Greece, France, Italy, Portugal and more for considerably cheaper than other major Canadian airlines.

The airline also frequently has sales that offer additional savings on their already cheap flights.

Check baggage restrictions

If you'll be travelling in Europe, be aware that local European airlines will often have different luggage restrictions compared to those of Canada.

For instance, if you were travelling to the islands of Greece, you'd likely have to take a Greek flight once you arrive in the country on your flight from Canada.

While your Canadian airline may have not had any restrictions on cabin baggage weight ( Air Canada , for instance, specifies that cabin baggage has no weight restrictions but must be light enough that you can store it unassisted), the local airline you fly with in your destination may have different rules.

Popular Greek airline Aegean , for instance, says that carry-on baggage must weigh no more than 8 kilograms (17.6 pounds).

Be sure to check the luggage requirements for every airline you'll be flying with to avoid any hassles during your trip.

Bon voyage!

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

Protect Your Trip »

Here's when you need (and don't need) a passport to cruise.

It's the type of sailing – closed-loop or open-loop – that largely determines whether or not you need a passport to cruise.

Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

Getty Images

A passport isn't always required for cruising.

To determine whether or not you need a passport to cruise, you first need to figure out if the itinerary is closed-loop or open-loop (also known as open-jaw).

Closed-loop cruise: A closed-loop cruise typically doesn't require a passport since it begins and ends in the same U.S. port (though there are some exceptions to this rule).

Example: Royal Caribbean International 's seven-night Western Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise stops in several countries – the Bahamas, Jamaica, Haiti and Grand Cayman – but the itinerary is considered closed-loop because it starts and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Open-loop cruise: An open-loop cruise begins in one U.S. port and ends in a different U.S. port.

Example: Carnival Cruise Line 's 16-day Panama Canal from Seattle itinerary is not considered closed-loop because it departs from Seattle and completes its journey in New Orleans.

All of the above regulations have been determined by the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative: a plan by the departments of State and Homeland Security that determines which documents are acceptable for proving identity and citizenship when entering the United States.

Where to cruise without a passport

There are several destinations where you can cruise without a passport on a closed-loop sailing. They include the following:

• The Bahamas

When looking at cruises to these locations, be mindful of the home ports. The Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, the Caribbean and Canada are all foreign ports, which means they only qualify for the passport exception if they are a stop along your cruise itinerary . If the cruise originates in any of these countries, it is likely you will need a passport.

Since Alaska, Hawaii and New England are all U.S. destinations, any closed-loop routes departing from these locations will not require a passport. However, keep in mind that it can be hard to find closed-loop cruises originating in Hawaii or Alaska.

To find closed-loop itineraries for a Hawaiian voyage or Alaskan cruise , try searching for sailings departing from major cities on the West Coast, like Seattle or Los Angeles . By contrast, quite a few closed-loop cruises leave from New England ports, but they are often marketed as Canadian cruises.

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When you need a passport for closed-loop cruises

Some cruise itineraries include foreign ports that require a passport for disembarkation. This is most commonly an issue for travelers on a closed-loop Caribbean cruise. Barbados , Guadeloupe , Haiti, Martinique , St. Barts , and Trinidad and Tobago all require U.S. citizens to present a valid passport to disembark and enter the country, despite WHTI regulations not requiring a passport for these destinations. Labadee, Royal Caribbean's private island , is an exception and does not require a passport despite its location in Haiti.

If your itinerary includes a country requiring a U.S. passport, your cruise line will require you to have the passport at check-in. Note that your passport must not expire within six months of your arrival in a foreign country or else it won't be considered valid for international travel.

Read: The Easiest Way to Renew Your Passport

Acceptable forms of ID

All travelers – U.S. citizens and foreign nationals alike – must present documents that show identity and citizenship when entering the United States. A U.S. passport can show both. If you don't have one or don't want to bring one, be aware that you may need to present more than one document.

U.S. citizens 16 and older

If you're a U.S. citizen age 16 or older sailing on a closed-loop cruise without your passport, you will need a government-issued photo ID like a driver's license. In addition, you must present a document that proves your U.S. citizenship. These include:

• Passport card
• State-issued enhanced driver's license (EDL)
• Government-issued birth certificate
• Trusted Traveler Program card (NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST)
• American Indian Card (Form I-872) or Enhanced Tribal ID Card

The Trusted Traveler Programs are risk-based programs to facilitate the entry of travelers who have been vetted and preapproved. Most of these programs will provide you with a machine-readable card that allows you to pass through border checkpoints quickly. Keep in mind, some of these IDs are only available to travelers 16 and older.

Read: TSA Precheck vs. Global Entry

U.S. citizens younger than 16

U.S. citizens younger than 16 are only required to present proof of citizenship, such as one of the following documents:

• Original, notarized or certified copy of their government-issued birth certificate
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad issued by U.S. Department of State
• Certificate of Naturalization issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Read: How to Get a Passport for Kids

Non-U.S. citizens

If you are a lawful permanent resident (or LPR) of the United States, you are required to present a permanent resident card or other valid evidence of permanent residence status.

Non-U.S. citizens, with the exception of Canadians and Mexicans, are not subject to passport exceptions, so a valid passport will need to be provided. Canadian citizens can present a valid passport, Enhanced Driver's License or Trusted Traveler Program card. Mexican citizens must present a passport with a visa or a Border Crossing Card.

Unacceptable forms of ID

While most common forms of identification are accepted, there are a few exceptions. U.S. military identification cards and U.S. Merchant Mariner documents are valid forms of identification, but only when traveling on official orders or in conjunction with official maritime business, so it is unlikely they will be accepted when traveling on a cruise.

Here are some other documents that will not be accepted as proof of citizenship:

• Voter registration cards
• Social Security cards
• Baptismal papers
• Hospital certificates of birth (for anyone older than a newborn)

It is important to note that many of the permitted forms of identification, such as a passport card or EDL, are only accepted at land and sea border crossings. Unforeseen circumstances, such as a medical air evacuation, may cause you to return to the U.S. by air travel. In this case, these documents won't be accepted when you try to reenter at the border crossing.

To avoid extra delays in your return to the U.S. following unforeseen travel complications, the Department of State recommends that everyone taking a cruise from the United States carry a valid passport book in case of emergency.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Erin Vasta has traveled extensively to international destinations, gaining a deep knowledge of travel regulations in the process. Her expertise in this area has saved her family and friends from unnecessary travel delays and ensured stress-free trips through border security in nearly 15 countries. To write this article, Vasta used her international travel experience and research skills.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Holders
• Cruise Packing List: Essentials to Bring
• Safe at Sea: The Best Cruise Insurance

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