what places to visit in canada

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Best places to visit in canada for 2023-2024.

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

Jasper National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Kluane National Park and Reserve

Saint John, New Brunswick

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Best Places to Visit in the USA for 2023

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23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Canada

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Mar 29, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The second largest country in the world, Canada has no shortage of beautiful landscapes and interesting sights for travelers to explore. From coast to coast to coast, the country is home to vibrant and culturally rich cities, along with incredible natural wonders.

In Western Canada , the Rocky Mountains; the Okanagan Valley; and the cities of Vancouver, Victoria, and Calgary are some of the best places to visit and frequently dominate itineraries. In Central Canada , Niagara Falls, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec City are some of the most popular tourist destinations.

For those who venture out to Canada's Atlantic Provinces in the east, the beauty of Gros Morne National Park , along with the cities of Halifax and St. John's, provide their own unique character.

Off the beaten path, but equally impressive, is Canada's North , where great rivers flow out to the Arctic Ocean, creating some incredible territory for canoeists, and where polar bears can be seen in the wild. Travelers can explore the remote beauty of places like Nahanni National Park ; Great Slave Lake; and the towns and cities of Churchill, Whitehorse, and Yellowknife .

For ideas to help plan your travels, see our list of top tourist attractions in Canada.

1. Niagara Falls

2. banff national park & the rocky mountains, 3. toronto's cn tower, 4. old quebec (vieux-quebec), 5. whistler, 6. ottawa's parliament hill, 7. st. john's signal hill national historic site, 8. old montreal, 9. polar bears of churchill, manitoba, 10. vancouver island, 11. bay of fundy, 12. victoria's inner harbour, 13. gros morne national park, 14. vancouver's stanley park, 15. calgary stampede, 16. canadian museum for human rights, 17. the okanagan valley, 18. cypress hills interprovincial park, 19. royal tyrrell museum in drumheller, 20. dawson city, 21. rideau canal, 22. algonquin provincial park, 23. nahanni national park reserve.

Niagara Falls is Canada's most famous natural attraction, bringing in millions of visitors each year. Located just over an hour's drive from Toronto, along the American border, these massive falls drop approximately 57 meters. You can see the falls at an astoundingly close distance from several key points.

Niagara Falls and the Niagara Gorge have been attracting tourists and daredevils for well over a century. Between the mid-19th and mid-20th centuries, there were numerous attempts to plunge over the falls in various types of homemade boats and barrels. This, along with tightrope walkers and other spectacles, led to the adjacent town of Niagara Falls developing a carnival-type atmosphere that still persists today.

Families will enjoy a walk down Niagara's outrageous Clifton Hill leading to the gorge and falls. Other popular things to do here include a cruise to the base of the falls, a trip up the Skylon Tower for a fantastic aerial view, and a look from the bottom of the falls on the Journey Behind the Falls experience.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Niagara Falls, Canada

Banff National Park lies in the heart of the majestic Rocky Mountains in the province of Alberta and showcases some of Canada's most beautiful scenery. Turquoise-colored lakes, snowcapped peaks, and glaciers are all easily accessible in this stunning park. Take a scenic drive or head off on one of the best hikes in Banff .

The jewel of the park is Lake Louise , where green waters reflect the surrounding mountains and glaciers, and visitors can stroll easily around the shores. Just a short distance is Moraine Lake, another impressive alpine lake with an even slightly more dramatic surrounding.

The Icefields Parkway , which runs from Lake Louise to Jasper, is an unforgettable drive and another major attraction in Banff. At the south end of the park is the lovely little town of Banff, providing all kinds of options for accommodation, shopping, dining, and nightlife.

Banff is also a major winter sports area and home to Lake Louise Ski Resort and Sunshine Village , two of Canada's best ski destinations.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Banff National Park
• Top Things to Do at Lake Louise

On the shores of Lake Ontario in Canada's biggest city is the iconic CN Tower, one of Canada's most famous landmarks. The tower stands an impressive 553 meters high and dominates the skyline.

At the top, you can find fine dining in the revolving 360 restaurant, and enjoy a meal while looking out over the city and lake. The LookOut and the Glass Floor offer beautiful views out over the entire area. For an added thrill, consider stepping outside of the enclosed area onto the metal walkway for the CN Tower Edgewalk. You'll be harnessed in and then be able to walk around the building, 116 stories or 356 meters (1,168 feet) above the ground below.

But even those who choose not to go up the tower will find themselves stopping to stare at the structure, which is visible from almost everywhere in the city. At night, the tower is lit in different colors.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Toronto

Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Canada's historic gems. Spread across the Upper and Lower Town of Quebec, this area contains the city's most historic buildings. The Lower Town, along the St. Lawrence River, is the site of the original settlement and home to the outstanding Fairmont Le Château Frontenac , as well as numerous other treasures. The Upper Town rests on 100-meter-high cliffs and is home to the Citadel , the Plains of Abraham , Place d'Armes , and the Parque Historique de l'Artillerie .

Old Quebec is one of Canada's most popular historical areas and is well developed for tourism. In addition to the historical sites, other highlights include artists displaying their works on Rue du Trésor; interesting museums, like the Musée de la Civilisation; and unique shops and restaurants.

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

Just a two-hour drive from Vancouver is the famous ski resort of Whistler Blackcomb and the year-round resort destination of Whistler. While Whistler has always been an important winter sports area, it has also developed into a popular summer destination, with golf, mountain biking, and a lively town atmosphere no matter when you visit.

The village gained international attention in 2010 when it became one of the locations for the Winter Olympic Games. The area offers world-class skiing, hotels, and dining, as well as a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities and beautiful mountain scenery.

• Read More: Top Things to Do in Whistler & Easy Day Trips

Ottawa's Parliament Hill stands high above the Ottawa River and is graced by the Neo-Gothic-style Parliament buildings built in the last half of the 19th century. The most prominent feature is the Peace Tower, which divides the House of Commons and the Senate on either side. In front of the Parliament buildings is the Centennial Flame , lit in 1966 to commemorate the centenary of the Canadian Confederation, and behind the buildings is a sculpture garden.

In the summer, the Changing of the Guard takes place on the front lawn of the Houses of Parliament, weather permitting. Below Parliament Hill, a lovely walk runs alongside the Ottawa River.

Note that the Parliament Buildings will be undergoing significant renovations until 2030.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ottawa

At the entrance to St. John's harbor, overlooking the city and sea, is Signal Hill National Historic Site. It was here, in 1901, that the first wireless transatlantic signal was received. It also played a strategic role in the Seven Years' War with France, although the current fortifications were built during the hostilities of 1812.

The Cabot Tower is one of the key sites of Signal Hill. It was built in 1897 to mark the four-hundredth anniversary of the discovery of Newfoundland. It also now commemorates Guglielmo Marconi's reception here in 1901 of the first transatlantic radio telegraphy signal, transmitted over a distance of 2,700 kilometers from Poldhu in England.

In the tower are exhibitions on the history of Signal Hill and the history of communications (with a special section on Marconi). From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the coast as far as Cape Spear - the most easterly point of North America.

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

Old Montreal, lined with lovely historic buildings, is a place to go for great shopping and fine dining. While Montreal itself is a vibrant modern city, Old Montreal, down by the waterfront, is where you'll want to go to soak up the atmosphere.

Some of the must-see places in Old Montreal include Rue Bonsecours and the landmark Marché Bonsecours in the old town hall building, the interior of the beautiful Notre-Dame Basilica , the lively Place Jacques-Cartier , and the 1870s City Hall .

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Old Montréal
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Montreal

One of Canada's most unique attractions is the polar bear migration which sees these beautiful creatures make their way from land out onto the ice in Hudson Bay, near the town of Churchill in Northern Manitoba .

This small community opens itself up to tourists each fall. Tours take visitors out in tundra buggies with caged windows for close encounters with the polar bears. The prime viewing time occurs in October or November while the bears are waiting for the water to freeze before heading out onto the ice.

Although it is less than a two-hour ferry ride from the mainland, Vancouver Island can seem a world away. Most people head to Victoria, BC's capital city, for sightseeing and culture, but if you head north into the wild and remote landscapes, the island holds some unexpected and unforgettable experiences.

Nature lovers can hit the best hiking trails on Vancouver Island and set themselves up at some beautiful camping locations . Those looking for more comfort can always turn to one of the island's lodges or resorts.

One of the island's most incredible sights is the old-growth forests of giant trees, some more than 1,000 years old. Within day-tripping distance of Victoria are the ancient trees of Eden Grove, near the town of Port Renfrew . If you are heading up island, you can also wander through Cathedral Grove , not far from the town of Port Alberni, or go all the way out to Tofino to see even more huge trees.

On the rugged west coast, a magnificent scene of sandy coves and dramatic rocky shores reveals itself as you drive up to Tofino . Around this tiny but incredibly popular off-the-beaten-path tourist town, in nearby Pacific Rim National Park Reserve , you can find incredible hiking trails , some of the largest trees in Canada, endless beaches, great surfing spots, camping , and places where you can simply soak up nature in peace.

Tofino is a year-round destination , although, in the storm season from November to March, many visitors come to appreciate the huge waves rolling ashore; some come to surf, and others come simply to cozy up next to a fire in one of Tofino's lovely resorts looking out over the Pacific Ocean.

Other destinations around the Island, include Nanaimo , Parksville , and Qualicum Beach , all on the eastern shore, looking out onto the Salish Sea. If you really want to get away from it all, head up to the far north of the island and explore Cape Scott Provincial Park .

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions on Vancouver Island

The Bay of Fundy, located in Eastern Canada between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia , is known for its amazing tides. The variation between high and low is the largest in the world, measuring up to a maximum of 19 meters (10 fathoms).

While there are many ways to appreciate this natural wonder, some of the most popular locations and sights along the Bay of Fundy are the cliffs and rock formations at Hopewell Cape , Fundy National Park , the Fundy Trail Parkway , and Grand Manan Island .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on the Bay of Fundy

Few Canadian cities have done such a beautiful job of developing their waterfront area as Victoria and its Inner Harbour. This is a great place for strolling, relaxing, shopping, dining, and watching street performers all against the backdrop of the harbor.

The centerpiece of this area is the historic Empress Hotel , one of the city's most lovely buildings. Over the years, the Empress has welcomed kings and queens and, today, features a traditional high tea, which is one of the highlights for many visitors coming to Victoria. While the harbor area is popular year-round, it is particularly lively during the summer months.

The Inner Harbour is also where you'll find the British Columbia Legislative Buildings constructed in 1893. Visitors can take advantage of free tours offered daily and immerse themselves in the grandeur of the historic landmark.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Victoria, British Columbia

Newfoundland's Gros Morne National Park is more remote than many of Canada's most popular national parks, but worth the effort to discover this beautiful landscape of mountains and fjords. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring steep cliff walls, waterfalls, and interesting rock formations carved by the glacier-fed waters.

Most visitors take a boat tour to appreciate the scenery, but there are also hiking trails and opportunities for kayaking. In winter, the park receives far fewer visitors but is open for ski touring, complete with backcountry ski huts.

One of Vancouver's greatest treasures is the 405-hectare Stanley Park, conveniently located on the west side of the downtown area. Situated on a peninsula, the park is surrounded by the ocean and home to huge red cedar and Douglas fir trees. The seawall , which rings the park, has an extensive walking, jogging, and biking path with designated lanes for walkers and bikers. From the seawall are some lovely views of the city and mountains. A scenic drive also winds through Stanley Park with numerous pullouts.

Within the park are the Vancouver Aquarium , scenic Beaver Lake , and the Stanley Park Pavilion and Rose Garden . Also of special interest are numerous totem poles , some of which were erected more than 100 years ago. In the spring, the cherry trees burst into bloom in an amazing display.

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Stanley Park
• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Vancouver

This 10-day affair is one of the most widely anticipated events in Western Canada, with many locals and summertime travelers planning their holidays around the Calgary Stampede. For this week in July, the city of Calgary turns into a true western town, where people who might otherwise be wearing suits to work instead don jeans and cowboy boots.

At the Stampede Grounds are daily rodeo events drawing participants from across North America, thrill rides, games, food, and the nightly Grandstand Show. Around town, free "Stampede Breakfasts" are hosted by numerous establishments either at indoor or outdoor locations and usually consist of pancakes. Many big-name country music performers also typically come to the city for this event.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Calgary

Winnipeg's newest major attraction, which has drawn both national and international attention, is the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Opened in 2014 near The Forks , the building displays a unique design that is eye-catching to say the least, with geometry and colors based on images of the Canadian landscape.

Also unique is the concept behind the museum, which proved controversial when deciding which histories would be featured here. The museum highlights personal stories, capturing different perspectives, and focuses on a range of themes.

Official site: https://humanrights.ca/

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Winnipeg

Locals who live in Penticton and Kelowna like to say that the Okanagan Valley is located on the warm side of the mountains from neighboring Alberta. This statement rings true - this long valley is truly a summer playground for Western Canadians.

Huge lakes dominate the valley floor, and some of British Columbia's best beaches can be found here. Offshore from the lively cities, canoeing, pleasure boating, and sailing are all popular activities, and every sunny summer day, the lakes are filled with smiling, laughing people having fun.

Along the gentle inclines leading up from the lakes, you'll find farms growing some of Canada's best fruit, including cherries, peaches, pears, and plums among many others. Places to stay are numerous; quality accommodation can be found in both Penticton and Kelowna.

In the winter, the Okanagan quiets down somewhat, but when the snow flies, locals head to Big White, Apex, Silver Star, or Sun Peaks, some of British Columbia's best ski resorts .

The province of Saskatchewan and Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, in particular, are often overlooked as places to visit in Canada. A bit out of the way, they attract fewer tourists but those who do make the effort to get here are amply rewarded.

Wide-open spaces, huge skies, and abundant (and rare) wildlife are the norm out here, as is a feeling of peace and quiet. Rent a canoe and paddle one of the many lakes, go for a long hike in the grasslands, or if you find yourself here in winter, strap on your downhill skis and take a few runs.

For a bit of frontier history, swing by Fort Walsh National Historic Site and learn what life was like here in the late 19th century.

One of the world's premier dinosaur museums, the Royal Tyrrel is not to be missed. Incredible displays of dinosaurs found nearby are impressively showcased in a world-class setting. As you wander through the 13 galleries, you'll be transported back 3.9 billion years to the time that dinosaurs roamed the world. Standing next to these giants will truly make you feel rather insignificant.

A visit here isn't all indoors. Be sure to take time to explore the interpretive hiking trails located on the museum property.

Home of the 19th-century gold rush, Dawson City today finds its gold in the pockets of the happy visitors who come to see what life was like back in those crazy days. The town has done an excellent job of preserving the historical architecture of the time. In fact, the downtown core, called the Dawson Historical Complex, is a National Historic Site.

The Yukon River runs right by the city, and for a true historical experience, be sure to take a ride on a river paddlewheeler.

The historic Rideau Canal is a beloved four-season playground for the residents and visitors to Eastern Ontario. Extending from Kingston, on Lake Ontario, for 202 kilometers to Ottawa, this National Historic Site has been in operation since 1832.

In the summer, pleasure boats filled with families enjoying the summer sun transit the locks and make their way slowly along the route, stopping for ice cream and snacks at small towns along the way.

A portion of the canal in Ottawa transforms into a 7.8-kilometer-long ice skating rink in winter . All along the route are warming huts, pastry shops (be sure to try a Beaver Tail), coffee and hot chocolate vendors, changerooms, and washrooms. The skating season usually runs from January to early March, depending on the weather, and admission is free.

Read More: Explore the Historic Rideau Canal in Ottawa

Algonquin Provincial Park has been a beloved spot for nature lovers since 1893, when it was established as Canada's first provincial park . During the summer, numerous canoeists, campers, hikers, and mountain bikers visit this vast forest playground. This beautiful location is only three hours away from the urban cityscape of Toronto .

Home to over 1,500 lakes, this watery wonderland is a perfect place to explore in a canoe. Every day in summer, hundreds of paddlers set off on routes that take them from one spectacular location to the next.

Many others choose to just set up camp at one of the eight car-accessible campgrounds and enjoy the outdoor experience that typically involves long days at the beach, BBQs, and evening campfires. In fact, many families make a summer vacation at Algonquin a multigenerational event that takes place year after year.

Experience the magic of fall in the park as the leaves transform into a vibrant display of orange, red, and yellow. Take a hike on one of the trails and ascend to a lookout point for a breathtaking panoramic view.

Those with an inner desire to get off the beaten track and see some of Canada's most raw and incredible scenery should point their compass toward Nahanni National Park . In this UNESCO World Heritage Site, the massive South Nahanni River slices its way through the Selwyn, Mackenzie, and Franklin Mountains.

Along the way, it creates several incredible canyons (some over 1,000 meters deep), passes by hot springs, and tumbles over Virginia Falls, an awe-inspiring sight that is twice as high as Niagara Falls .

One of the most popular things to do in the park is river rafting or whitewater canoeing from Virginia Falls downriver to Nahanni Butte, a distance of nearly 220 kilometers. You'll camp along the way and trips usually take about 12 days.

Other pursuits in the park include mountain climbing in the rather ominously named Cirque of the Unclimbables, fishing for arctic grayling or bull trout, and hiking up Sheaf Creek to the spectacular Tl'ogotsho Plateau.

If all that physical activity sounds a bit much, just take a two or three-hour flightseeing trip over the area and get a bird's eye view.

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Planning Your Trip to Canada: Get more details on where to go and what to see with our detailed list of possible itineraries for exploring Canada . This is a guide to exploring each region, with links to things to do in each location. If you are coming for a winter holiday, be sure to have a look at our list of top ski resorts in Canada .

More on Canada

The Best 25 Things to Do in Canada

Getty Images/Brady Baker

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

See the Northern Lights in Yukon

Getty Images/Piriya Photography

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

Take a Stroll in Stanley Park

Getty Images/mysticenergy

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

Soak Stress Away at Banff Upper Hot Springs

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

Bike the Confederation Trail

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

Snap Some Photos of Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

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

Take a Walk on the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

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

Traverse the Capilano Suspension Bridge

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

Experience the Calgary Stampede

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

Float the Day Away at Little Manitou Lake

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

Visit the Hopewell Rocks

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

Camp in Killarney Provincial Park

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

Try the EdgeWalk at CN Tower

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

Check out Wood Buffalo National Park

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

Explore Old Town Lunenburg

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

Head Underground via Toronto’s PATH

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

Explore the East Coast Trail

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

Go Back in Time in Old Montreal

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

Eat Your Way Though St. Lawrence Market

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

Stop by Little Limestone Lake

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

Browse the Art Gallery of Ontario

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

Spend Time in Prince Edward Island National Park

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

Visit Pond Inlet

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

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

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

Shop the Iconic Jean-Talon Market

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

Stay on Fogo Island

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

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15 best places to visit in

Canada has it all. Quite literally. The world's second largest nation is home to huge mountains, lakes as large as countries, an Arctic archipelago, a vast network of National Parks – even a desert.

So how can you decide what to see? Check out the 15 best places to visit in Canada.

The Rockies

The sawtooth, white-topped mountains straddling the British Columbia–Alberta border inspire both awe and action.

Five national parks – Banff, Yoho, Kootenay, Waterton Lakes and Jasper – offer countless opportunities to delve into the wilderness, with hiking trails, rushing white water and powdery ski slopes.

The train provides another popular way to experience the grandeur: lakes, wildflowers and glaciers glide by as the cars chug up mountain passes and down river valleys en route to points east or west.

Old Québec City

Québec's capital is more than 400 years old, and its ancient stone walls, spired cathedrals and jazz-filled corner cafes suffuse it with atmosphere, romance, melancholy and eccentricity.

The best way to soak it all up is to walk the old town's labyrinth of lanes and get lost amid the street performers and cozy inns, stopping every so often for a café au lait and flaky pastry.

It's also home to Québec’s honeymoon highway, Rte 132. Circling the Gaspé Peninsula, this road whisks puppy-eyed couples past the sea and the mountain with joie de vivre.

​​Bay of Fundy

This ain't your average Canadian bay, though lighthouses, boats and trawlers, fishing villages and other maritime scenery surround it, with frequent landward sightings of deer and moose.

The unique geography of Fundy results in the most extreme tides in the world, reaching 16m (56ft), about the height of a five-story building.

They stir up serious whale food, with krill and other plankton attracting fin, humpback and blue whales here, as well as endangered North Atlantic right whales, making a whale-watch here a must-do.

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12 Best Places to Visit in Canada

This Commonwealth country is actually the world’s second largest. Most of that land area, however, is complete wilderness. That is certainly one of the draws of Canada: the utterly vast expanses of nature to really and truly get lost in. Its national parks are truly massive, offering picture-perfect vistas.

Mountaineering, hiking, boating, swimming, cycling – there’s a lot of rewards here if you’re a fan of the great outdoors. Spot grizzly bears in Banff National Park, hit the powdered slopes of Whistler, or taste your way through some of Vancouver’s freshest wild salmon. There’s something in Canada for everyone.

Away from the stunning nature of Canada – also including the Great Lakes Region – you can explore its culture and history. Get stuck into the Francophone region of Quebec, the sparkling skyscrapers and East Asian culture pockets in Vancouver, Toronto’s elegant Victorian architecture, and Canada’s ‘château style’ grand railway hotels and neo-gothic public buildings in Ottawa. Plan your trip to this wonderful travel destination in North America with our list of the best places to visit in Canada.:

12. Calgary [SEE MAP]

The largest city in Alberta, Calgary is situated between the Canadian Prairies and the foothills of the Canadian Rockies . After oil was discovered nearby in the early 1900s, Calgary boomed into what is now one of Canada’s largest metropolitan areas, attracting thousands every year to its world-famous rodeo event, the Calgary Stampede.

While Calgary is comprised of several neighborhoods, the downtown core is where the commercial, entertainment and shopping districts are located. Stephen Avenue Walk and Barclay Mall are two popular pedestrian zones.

Calgary is home to a large number of skyscrapers with observation decks offering incredible views of the city and Rocky Mountains. The most notable of these are The Bow and Calgary Tower . There are also many family attractions including a world-class zoo, amusement parks, botanical gardens, a hands-on science center.

While the city plays host to several annual festivals of music, film and dance, the most famous is the Calgary Stampede , an Old West celebration held over ten days in July with rodeos, chuckwagon races, parades and competitions.

11. Churchill [SEE MAP]

It may only be a small town of 1,000 residents, but Churchill draws huge crowds every year to see its most famous inhabitants, the polar bears . Nicknamed the “Polar Bear Capital of the World,” Churchill is located in the Manitoba province on the Hudson Bay shore. In addition to polar bears, Churchill is also the place to go for viewing beluga whales, birds and the aurora borealis.

The best time to see polar bears in Churchill is October and November when the bears migrate to the shores, hunting for marine food. The tourism industry here provides tours and vehicles called tundra buggies for the safety of both tourists and the bears.

In the summer months, tour operations take people out on the water to see the beluga whales , which migrate here by the thousands. Some tourists even don swimsuits and swim with the whales. With more than 270 species of birds, Churchill is also a birdwatcher’s paradise . Thousands of birders visit the area every summer to glimpse species like snowy owls, gyrfalcons, stilt sandpipers and tundra swans.

Churchill also presents an excellent spot to see the aurora borealis, or northern lights. Normally, the peak time to see this natural marvel is between January and March. The primary ways of reaching Churchill are by airplane and train. Train connections are from Winnipeg and Thompson.

10. Cape Breton Island [SEE MAP]

While it’s located in north-eastern Nova Scotia, Cape Breton Island was once its own independent colony until it was forced to merge in 1820. As it welcomed thousands of Scottish expats in the early 19th-century, it remains the only place in North America where you’ll hear Gaelic spoken, with a host of traditional Scottish music concerts on offer.

In addition to the Scots, Cape Breton also has a healthy French population , with the 18th-century Fortress of Louisbourg a major highlight. A fascinating Mi’kmaq community adds to the pleasant mixture of cultural influences.

Whale watching here is unforgettable. Sightings are just about guaranteed at the northern tip (the top of the island), which you can reach with a boat or kayak tour – the scenery alone makes it worth the trip.

Among its spectacular landscapes, the highlight is undoubtedly Cape Breton Highlands National Park with its phenomenal Cabot Trail and gorgeous lookout points. Don’t forget the scenic fishing villages such as Bay St. Lawrence, where you’ll find some excellent seafood.

9. Ottawa [SEE MAP]

Located at the meeting point of three rivers, Ottawa is Canada’s capital city, home to the sixth-largest population in the country – and growing. Unusually, the city is bilingual. Don’t be surprised to hear people speaking a mix of English and French ; both are first languages here.

Previously known as Bytown, Ottawa was once a lumber town, with many mills built along the Ottawa River in the middle of the 19th century. Today, it’s a beautiful green city filled with blissful parks and waterways. Biking is popular in the summer months, and these trails are converted to ski trails come winter. Running right through the heart of the city, the Rideau Canal is a must visit. In winter the canal becomes the world’s largest ice skating ring.

One of the main things to do is visit the Byward Market. But if you’re interested in history, you’re in for a treat. While it may not be Canada’s official cultural capital, Ottawa is home to some spectacular historic buildings, such as the National Library and Archives – the fourth largest library in the world.

As the nation’s capital, Ottawa is home to many federal establishments including Parliament Hill , the government seat where the ceremonial Changing of the Guard takes place daily during the summer.

8. Whistler [SEE MAP]

Thanks to a couple of spectacular mountains called Whistler and Blackcomb, the Whistler resort is the largest and most famous alpine ski destination in North America. Located in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia in western Canada, Whistler is a two-hour trip from Vancouver along Canada’s most scenic drive, the Sea-to-Sky Highway.

At the base of the two mountains are three quaint villages, Whistler Village , Creekside and Upper Village. The Peak 2 Peak gondola transports visitors from the villages to the mountains.

Whistler had humble beginnings as a logging town. After the 1960 Olympics in Squaw Valley, a ski resort was built on London Mountain as a potential destination for the 1968 Winter Olympics. However, this wasn’t achieved until the 2010 Winter Olympics . In an attempt to steer away from its misleading name, London Mountain was renamed Whistler Mountain because of the whistle-like sound made by the native hoary marmots living in the mountains here.

Today, Whistler has many world-class ski resorts and offers extraordinary views from its mountain slopes that bring adventurers back year after year. Aside from snow sports, the mountains also make for great hiking and rock climbing opportunities.

7. Vancouver Island [SEE MAP]

Vancouver Island, named after the British explorer George Vancouver, is the largest island off the West Coast of the North American continent. Surrounded by the waters of the Pacific, it’s a truly photogenic island filled with glistening lakes, impressive waterfalls, magical fjords, and glacial mountains that are popularly explored by hikers. Outdoorsy travelers are attracted by the weather; it has the mildest climate in Canada.

The island is best known for the gorgeous Butchart Gardens , the surf town of Tofino and the wilderness in the north, where one can catch a ferry to Prince Rupert, and another to Alaska from there. Vancouver Island is also a wildlife hotspot.

Not only does it offer some of the best whale watching in the world – you can even kayak with orca – but it’s also a great spot for bird watching and grizzly bear sightings. As the island is sparsely populated, with most of the population living in Victoria – the capital of BC – you can really soak up the magic of the outdoors.

One of the best places for a walk in nature is in Strathcona Provincial Park , where you’ll find most of the spectacular scenery on the island. Visit Cathedral Grove with its ancient forest, or tee off on one of the many fantastic golf courses.

6. Quebec City [SEE MAP]

Quebec City may be the capital of the Quebec province in eastern Canada , but its French heritage, architecture and language make it appear more like a charming European village.

Perched on a hill overlooking the St. Lawrence River is Vieux Quebec , the city’s historic district, which is the only North American city still retaining its original walls. A walk along the cobblestone streets of the Old City offers encounters with old buildings like the Citadel and historic sites like the Place-Royale, the area where explorer, Samuel de Camplain, established the first North American-French settlement. Cafes, shops and bars are peppered throughout the Old City.

The city’s icon, the stunning Chateau Frontenac , is regarded as the most photographed hotel in North America and offers tours even without an overnight stay. Another impressive hotel is the Ice Hotel. Open from January to April, this unique hotel features rooms with beautiful ice sculptures.

Outside the city center are several beautiful and historic parks like Montgomery Falls and Plains of Abraham, which offer breathtaking waterfalls, outdoor recreation and history of the area.

5. Toronto [SEE MAP]

The sprawling city of Toronto is the most densely populated city in Canada, with nearly three million residents. Located on the shores of Lake Ontario , Toronto forms part of the Golden Horseshoe region, which encompasses the area from the lake to Niagara Falls.

As the provincial capital of the Ontario province, Toronto is also one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with just shy of 100 ethnic communities calling it home. It’s one of the only places in Canada where more than half of the residents were not born in the country. But it’s this melting pot that makes Toronto what it is. Some of the street signs are written in different languages, and diverse neighborhoods have their own distinctive cuisine.

There’s so much culture to be found in the inner city proper amongst its towering skyscrapers and thousands of multi-cultural restaurants.

One of the most popular attractions on the tourist trail is the CN Tower , the tallest free-standing structure in the world (until it was trumped by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai). It offers an extraordinary uninterrupted view of the city from its observation deck, skypod, and the 360 Restaurant. But it’s worth it for a ride up in the glass-enclosed elevator alone!

4. Montreal [SEE MAP]

Montreal is the second-largest city in the Quebec province, located where the St Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers meet. Montreal is Canada’s capital of culture. It’s also one of the most diverse, energetic, welcoming, and forward-thinking cities in North America, with modern street art, an energetic breed of musicians, and a great party scene in its newer parts.

While English is spoken, it’s not the most common language; it’s actually the second-largest city in the world to speak French as a first language outside of France. So it’s easy to see why it’s earned its nickname as the ‘ Paris of North America .’

Montreal’s cityscape is a pleasure to visit all year round. It’s especially beautiful in autumn when the trees turn burnt orange around the iconic cityscape. Old Montreal is the highlight with its cobbled streets, quaint museums, and historical buildings, some of which date back to the 17th-century. Don’t miss the chance to climb up the clock tower in the Quai de l’Horloge for some exceptional views over the St. Laurence River and the city in the distance.

Exciting shopping districts include the downtown underground complex, the Carrefour Laval mall and the colorful Bonsecours Market.

3. Niagara Falls [SEE MAP]

Niagara Falls is a series of three awe-inspiring waterfalls situated on the border of Canada’s Ontario and the United States’ New York. The Ontario side of the Falls is called Horseshoe Falls and offers the best views and most attractions. The immediate area surrounding the Falls is a premier tourist spot teeming in observation towers, restaurants, souvenir shops, casinos and high-rise hotels.

Its sister city in New York is known as the ‘honeymoon capital of the world,’ and one of the only places where you can get a marriage license without a waiting period. Those looking for both romance and adventure will find it here, with a long list of exciting things to see and do.

One of the best places to view the Niagara Falls on the Ontario side is from Queen Victoria Park where the Falls are illuminated and fireworks are displayed nightly during the summer. See them from above or below – it’s your choice – with helicopter tours, jet boat tours, an observation deck next to Skylon Tower , and elevators that take you down behind the falls.

2. Vancouver [SEE MAP]

The massive city of Vancouver is one of the largest in Canada. Located in south-western British Columbia , it’s a famous foodie hotspot – especially for seafood, like its celebrated freshly caught prawns and wild salmon. Because of its melting pot of cultures, you’ll find no shortage of mixed cuisine here, making dining out one of the city’s simple, but by no means underrated, pleasures.

Vancouver’s star attraction is Stanley Park . Covering 1,000 acres of woodlands, gardens and green spaces, this park features an aquarium, water park and the picturesque Seawall. Some of Vancouver’s other top sites include Granville Island’s remarkable food market and Canada Place’s waterfront complex housing the Vancouver Convention Center. One of Vancouver’s most popular neighborhood is Chinatown with it’s vibrant array of shops, restaurants and stunning gardens.

Nicknamed the ‘Hollywood of the North’ because of its huge TV and film industry, Vancouver is also home to the fourth-largest cruise ship terminal in the world. As many as 900,000 passengers pass through the terminal every year, with many cruises making their way onwards to Alaska .

With both beaches and ski slopes within easy reach, Vancouver has been rated as one of the world’s best cities to live in. Home to happy and active people who spend their days rollerblading, jogging, and dog walking along in the Seawall or playing a game of volleyball on Kitsilano Beach, Vancouver is a big destination for outdoorsy activities. Don’t leave without the chance to take a dip in Canada’s longest pool – it’s almost three times the size of a normal Olympic swimming pool!

1. Banff National Park [SEE MAP]

Tucked away in the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is the oldest national park in Canada , and also one of its largest. Because of its sheer size and remote location, many people are drawn to this untouched piece of the globe for the isolation alone – outside of Banff and Lake Louise – the park’s two points of civilization – that is.

There are two popular routes through the park, but it doesn’t matter too much which you choose. Both are filled with jaw-dropping scenery, from glistening multi-colored lakes and dramatic canyons to beautiful viewpoints and majestic waterfalls. Whether you have your own car is not important, as shuttles service most of the key attractions in the park .

Active travelers will be in their element here with the chance to snowshoe or paddle the lake, while wildlife watchers will have an adventure all of their own. Banff National Park is filled with animals – the most eagerly anticipated sighting being, of course, the grizzly bear.

The town of Banff is the park’s primary settlement, offering the most variety of lodging, shopping and dining. Accessed by the Icefields Parkway , Lake Louise offers luxurious accommodation in a gorgeous setting of turquoise lakes and majestic mountains. Lake Minnewanka and Sunshine Meadows are other smaller villages.

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Reader interactions.

April 11, 2018 at 5:30 am

actually i prefer calgary. to me its one of the best places in canada. and also one of the biggest and beautiful

June 28, 2017 at 11:19 pm

I have visit Vancouver twice, really a very beautiful country. People there are nice, places are clean, scenery is awesome.

April 21, 2017 at 8:24 am

Canada is soo beautiful place. i would like to visit atleast once.

February 21, 2017 at 3:15 pm

I think your list should include the great outdoor. Canada has some lovely cities but almost anywhere can take you outdoors. The maritimes for short trips and the Rocky Mountains for the longer trips. But Ontario is beautiful as well.

November 24, 2016 at 7:51 am

I will visit canada soon,its one of my bucketlist in north america.

May 9, 2016 at 9:19 pm

Victoria Island was amazing! It’s not on the list, but it is still a great place to check out! Parts of it reminded me of Europe

March 22, 2016 at 5:06 pm

Calgary is a boring place. Just fly into it and head to Banff. Nothing worth seeing in Calgary unless you are there during the Stampede which is a 10 day period in early July. The Rockies and Vancouver are better places to go to visit.

January 9, 2016 at 6:51 am

My son resides and works in Toronto. He has posted lovely pictures of places he had visited in Canada, thus awakening a desire in me to visit that country. Also, the story of Anne of Green Gables in Prince Edward Island aroused an interest in me to see that part of the world.

December 26, 2015 at 4:15 pm

I would love to live and work in Ottawa Canada.i just love it

August 25, 2015 at 7:33 am

Oh, all these spots are amazing to be seen, but I give it to Toronto!!! Diverse ethnic presence, you can’t be fed up of fun can you? Different people to learn their ways of live and all that.

May 8, 2015 at 5:19 am

I would like to visit Canada!

December 8, 2014 at 8:25 am

It’s incredibly beautiful. I would like to visit these places of Canada once in my life.

February 14, 2014 at 11:21 pm

I’d also recommend PEI if you want something less urbanized and more cozy, country. Whitehorse/Yellowknife between Sept-Mar for the northern lights!!

October 31, 2013 at 8:21 am

These Places Are Beautiful

October 12, 2013 at 12:50 am

Banff is one place in Canada that captured my heart. It is so beautiful, peaceful and something like there’s a magical feeling when you’re there. Canada is really a must visit country. Thanks

August 13, 2013 at 2:04 am

You should check out Nova Scotia next time you head to Canada! Halifax is great, of course, but we have some amazing rural areas. Hiking the highlands and having a run-in with a moose, shopping in Lunenburg (a UNESCO world heritage site) and then stopping into The Ovens, winery and craft beer tours, rafting, tubing, wakeboarding, and more!

This is a great list. I love the polar bear pic, too! Thanks for sharing!

August 7, 2013 at 12:15 am

The Banff National Park looks simply amazing, at least on this picture. Makes me willing to visit Canada even more. One day, one day…

July 31, 2013 at 10:30 am

I have wanted to visit Calgary ever since the hosted the Olympics. And although it’s kinda embarrassing to admit it, I got a first had look at Whistler on a couple of episodes of Real Housewives of Orange County. It looked exquisite. Canada is one of my bucket list places to visit.

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41 Beautiful Places to Visit in Canada

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 19, 2024

Dave and I have had the pleasure of visiting most of Canada and these are our picks for the most iconic and beautiful places to visit in Canada. Are you looking for outdoors or culture? City travels, or rural. Canada has it all! To help you decide where to start, we’re rounding up the best places to visit in Canada with the most awe-inspiring scenes and memorable landmarks. Here are our top picks!

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in Canada

Canada is huge! In fact, it is the second-largest country in the world. So seeing it all in one shot won’t happen. But luckily we have seen most of it and have had the chance to witness our most iconic places.

If you don’t have a couple of years to drive around the country, you will need to decide what coast you want to travel, and what experiences you want to have. We’ve rounded up the top tourist attractions, best scenic views and most beautiful places in Canada for you to visit.

• Check out our Canada Playlist on YouTube for beautiful scenery and our adventurers in Canada

1. Banff National Park & Lake Louise

Banff National Park is one of Canada’s top attractions and with good reason. With famous scenes from Moraine Lake to The Vermillion Lakes and The Three Sisters, Banff National Park is an outdoor lover’s dream. There are so many reasons to visit Banff from hiking through the mountain trails , mountain biking, backcountry skiing or go horseback riding into the Rocky Mountains. Read Next: Discover Banff in Photos

Witness the incredible view of Lake Louise and the Victoria glacier from the Chateau Fairmont Lake Louise and enjoy the fresh Canadian Rockies mountain air as you explore the beautiful lakes of Banff National Park most notably Moraine Lake, Lake Minnewanka, Peyto Lakes, and Vermillion Lakes. Read more: Things to do in Banff

Make sure to go snowboarding at the world class Lake Louise ski resort and don’t miss going up the Banff Gondola. Read More: Things to do in Banff , Where to Stay in Banff

2. Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway is considered one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the world linking Banff and Jasper National Parks through the Canadian Rockies.

This stretch of highway is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Canada with stops including the Athabasca glacier, The Columbia Icefields, reflections of Bow Lake, outstanding views of the Canadian Rockies and more than 100 glaciers, and waterfalls lining the route. Read more: Driving the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper Alberta

3. Columbia Icefields Skywalk

The Columbia Icefields Walk is one of the best places to visit in Alberta and is the coolest walk in Canada dangling 280 meters (918-foot) over the Sunwapta Valley. The glass floor will take your breath away. Located along the Icefields Parkway, this is a beautiful stop to see the surrounding mountains and glaciers. See our road trip along the Icefield’s Parkway

4. Alberta Badlands

The Alberta Badlands are one of North America’s most beautiful views in Canada. Make a home base and do some camping at Dinosaur Provincial Park to see one of the largest dinosaur fossil collections in the world. Check out more iconic Canadian destinations at Famous Canada Landmarks to add to your bucket List

• Check out our stay at Dinosaur Provincial Park in the Badlands
• Things to do in Drumheller, Alberta

5. Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a little less crowded than Banff National Park but no less spectacular It is known for its yearly Dark Sky Festival and it is worth visiting just for the amazing display of stars and the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Choose a view at one of its beautiful lakes – Maligne Lake, Pyramid, Mildred, or Beauvart Lakes for spectacular views. Read more: Amazing Things to do in Jasper, Alberta .

There’s also an excellent ski resort that is less busy than Lake Louise, Marmot Basin is the place to go if you want to hit the slopes.

6. Maligne Lake

Speaking of Lakes, you can’t visit Jasper without driving out to the extraordinary views of Maligne Lake. This is a great day trip where you can stop at Maligne Canyon and go for a hike along the Maligne River Gorge. It’s one of the best places to visit in Jasper and it’s not to be missed. Enjoy our list of the Best Things to do in Albert a

7. Waterton Lakes National Park

At the complete other end of Alberta is Waterton Lakes National Park. It shares a border with Glacier National Park in America a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also an International Peace Park, and a Biosphere Reserve rolled all in one. It’s the only one of its kind in the world.

• Things to do in Waterton Lakes National Park
• Read about our tour through Southern Alberta

Watch our video: The Best Places in Canada to Visit

For more of the best places to visit in Canada, you may also want to read:

• 14 Beautiful and Best Cities in Canada
• Best Canada National Parks – That We’ve Seen
• 52 Things to do in Canada – For the Ultimate Adventures

8. Whistler

Whistler is Canada’s outdoor playground with world-class ski resorts , backcountry snowmobiling , and adrenaline activities. It is also one of the top tourist destinations in British Columbia . In the summer go mountain biking or explore its many hiking trails and outdoor activities before relaxing in Whistler village to enjoy the world-class dining and nightlife.

Whistler Ski Resort hosted the winter Olympics so if you want to hit the slopes, Whistler/Black is one of Canada’s premier ski resorts with the most runs in the country. Check out all the things to do in Whistler

Since we didn’t have a good photo of Tofino, I chose one courtesy of Pixabay.

Located on Vancouver Island just off of Canada’s west coast, Tofino is Canada’s surfing destination. Storm watchers gather in Tofino from October to February to watch the massive winter waves pound the Canadian Coast. Read: Driving the Sunshine Coast in BC – The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary

10. Okanagan Valley

The Okanagan Valley in British Columbia is the main wine region in the province and could easily be mistaken for Tuscany. If you like wine, it is one of the best places to visit in Canada for tours and tastings.

Making a base in either Kelowna , Penticton or Vernon offers a relaxing vacation overlooking picturesque lakes, rolling hills, and forests, and three mountain ranges surrounding the valley

11. Victoria

Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria is the capital of British Columbia. With its colonial architecture, grand gardens, and lovely seafront, you can feel the English influence with every turn. One of the best places to visit in Victoria is to see the famous Butchart Gardens and to take a stroll through Canada’s oldest China Town. Read more about BC at Exploring the Sea to Sky Highway and Sunshine Coast BC – The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary

12. Vancouver

Vancouver is a beautiful coastal city in British Columbia. In fact, Flight Center once called it the fifth most beautiful city in the world. Its laid-back west coast vibe makes it one of the best places to explore the outdoors while still enjoying all the urban amenities.

Stanley Park is a part of the city just minutes from the city center with a gorgeous sea wall, the Stanly Park Aquarium and 4 square km of green space it is one of the best places to hang out in the city. With mountains, oceans, plenty of green space, and lots of nightlife, it is certainly one of our favourite cities in Canada .

• Read more: 14 Best Hikes in Vancouver to Enjoy the Great Outdoors
• Where to Stay in Vancouver – Best Hotels & Vacation Rentals By Area
• 26 Best Things to do in Vancouver, BC

13. Churchill

The town of Churchill is famous for being located on the polar bear highway and it is one of the best places in the world to see polar bears in their natural habitat. In fact, it has been named the polar bear capital of the world.

Churchill is also famous for the beluga whale migration where thousands of belugas can be seen playing in the bay just off the pier of Churchill. A unique thing to see in Churchill is the Polar Bear jail (a holding pen for bears to be relocated after wandering into town).

• See more: Kayaking with Beluga Whales
• Things to do in Churchill Manitoba – Land of the Polar Bears

14. Hudson Bay

To really see the polar bears, staying at a lodge on Hudson Bay puts you in the true Canadian tundra. Churchill Wild has several lodges in Northern Manitoba where polar bears can be viewed up close and personal in their natural habitat.

The wildlife is spectacular, but the scenery is outstanding as well. Going on a polar bear safari was one of the best adventures we’ve ever had. Enjoy: Walking with Polar Bears

15. Canadian Museum of Human Rights

We don’t put museums in lists of iconic places, but the Canadian Museum of Human Rights in Winnipeg is one of the best museums in the world.

The museum itself is beautifully designed winning many architectural awards taking the visitor on a journey from the ground floor representing roots and soil through mountains, earth, clouds, and light with exhibits like the Garden of Contemplation and the glass tower overlooking the city of Winnipeg. Read next: Things to do in Winnipeg

16. Lunenburg

Lunenburg in Nova Scotia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of Canada’s prettiest cities. With painted houses that adhere to strict cultural standards, Lunenburg has kept its maritime heritage intact and is one of the best places to experience the fishing culture of the East Coast.

There’s fine dining, museums, ocean tours, luxury hotels and B&B making this the perfect Canadian vacation destination. Enjoy these Beautiful Photos of Nova Scotia

17. Cape Breton

Driving around the Cabot Trail of Cape Breton showcases the best of Canadian life. It is one of the best road trips in the world with outstanding coastal views, hiking trails, whale watching and boat trips, lobster tours and fishing villages. See everything there is to do on the Cabot Trail

18. Peggy’s Cove

One of the world’s most famous lighthouses, Peggy’s Cove, is Nova Scotia’s most popular attraction. A visit to Peggy’s Cove is more than a lighthouse through, hiking along the volcanic coastal rocks makes for a beautiful view of Canada’s East Coast.

There are plenty of things to do in Peggy’s Cove from taking boat tours to exploring the hiking trails and exploring the picturesque nearby towns. Learn more at: Things to do in Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia

19. Three Sisters

The Bay of Fundy are the highest tides in the world and there are three amazing places to witness them in Nova Scotia. The Shubenacadie River, Burntcoat Head Provincial Park, and kayaking or hiking out to the Three Sisters.

Here you can walk on the ocean floor at low tide for miles and then kayak out to see rock formations when the 1000 billion tons of water come in every 6 hours. Read More: The Ultimate Nova Scotia Road Trip

20. Bay of Fundy Hopewell Rocks

New Brunswick has the classic views of the Bay of Fundy at the Hopewell Rocks. With Unique Formations, Sea Caves, and arches, this is one of the best places to witness the power of the highest tides on earth. New Brunswick is a nature lover’s paradise and when exploring this east coast province, the Hopewell Rocks are one of the best places to tart.

• Read more about the Bay of Fundy
• Amazing Bay of Fundy Adventures – Ways to Experience the Highest Tides
• Tidal Bore Rafting

21. Fundy National Park

Driving through Fundy National Park showcases stunning views of the New Brunswick Coast. With 25 waterfalls and spectacular views of the Bay of Fundy, this is a great Canadian park to visit. If you want a true adventure, take on the challenge of hiking the Fundy Trail. The 61km hike is considered one of the greatest multi-day hikes in the world.

22. Kouchibouguac National Park

One of the best dark sky preserves can be found in Kouchibouguac National Park but it’s the boardwalk through the salt marsh that attracts visitors here. Follow the path out to the sand dunes or explore the river by voyageur canoe. 25 Best Things to do in New Brunswick, Canada

23. St. Martins

With historic covered bridges and the St. Martins Sea Caves is a must-stop on the East Coast. Sea Kayaking trips are offered to explore the sea caves at high tide, but you can also walk out right into the belly of the massive caves at low tide as the Bay of Fundy waters recede miles out from shore. Read More about New Brunswick at The Best Things to do in Saint John

24. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is Canada’s most famous tourist attraction and the #1 place to visit in Ontario and it does not disappoint. Dave and I visit Niagara Falls at least once a year and we never tire of seeing one of the world’s largest waterfalls.

There are several adventures you can do in Niagara Falls like taking the Maid of the Mist into the heart of Horseshoe Falls, taking a journey behind the falls, riding the Aerocar, or daring to join a jetboat tour to the whirlpool from Niagara on the Lake.

• Check out all the great things to do in Niagara Falls
• Where to Stay in Niagara Falls – Best Areas
• 15 Amazing Things to do in Niagara on the Lake – Canada

25. CN Tower

The CN Tower was once the world’s tallest structure, but it is still clinging to the top 10. We’ve visited a lot of towers around the world, but the CN Tower is still the best experience. It’s one of the top tourist attractions in Toronto and with good reason. That’s saying a lot as there are so many things to do in Canada’s largest city but we never tire of bringing people to the CN Tower when they visit.

With its hair-raising glass floor, rotating restaurant, and the adrenaline-pumping Edgewalk, it’s a must-see attraction when visiting Toronto. Be sure to go up the CN Tower for city views and if you love adventure, make sure to try the EdgeWalk .

• The Best Things to do in Toronto – A Guide to the Top Attractions
• Where to Stay in Toronto – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods

26. Algonquin Park

Ontario is blessed with many provincial parks, but our favourite is Algonquin Park. This 7,653 km² (2954 square miles) park is one of Canada’s premier canoe route destinations and one of the best places to spot moose in the wild. There are hiking trails and it is one of the best places to go snowshoeing in Ontario. Check out: Canoeing in Algonquin Park

27. Lake Superior North Shore

Not many people get north of Lake Superior, but this is where you’ll find the most beautiful views in Ontario. Stop at the Canada Goose in Wawa, go canoeing or kayaking to the slate islands in search of the woodland caribou , or hike the Pukaskwa Trail, one of the hardest hikes in Canada .

There are also plenty of other hiking trails along Lake Superior, most notably, Agawa Rock Indian Pictograph Trial, Orphan Lake Trail, and Lake Superior Coastal Trail. See our full Lake Superior Circle Tour

Ottawa is Canada’s capital and one of our favorite places to visit in the country. Be sure to visit during the annual winter carnival, Winterlude. Ice skating along the Rideau Canal right through the city center. It is one of the most iconic things to do in Canada. But there are so many things to do in Ottawa. Visit our beautiful Parliament buildings, cross the river to Gatineau, explore its many museums and stay at the historic Chateau Laurier. Read: Things to do in Ottawa

Ottawa is home to our Canadian government and one of the top things to do is to see Parliament Hill and the historic parliament buildings. It is filled with museums, hiking trails, bike paths and

29. Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island is the world’s largest freshwater island filled with natural beauty and several hiking trails. It also houses the largest lake within a freshwater island in the world.

The best experience to have in Manitoulin is to hike to the top of the Cup and Saucer Trail and to take part in the Great Spirit Circle Tour – an Aboriginal experience. Read more: The Top Things to do on Manitoulin Island

No trip to Ontario would be complete without visiting the original capital of Canada, Kingston Ontario. Located on the St. Lawrence River, Rideau Canal and Lake Ontario, Kingston has a very unique location .

This city absolutely surprised us when we revised it in 2021. Kingston is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, five national historic sites, four Rembrandt paintings, and more restaurants per capita than most cities in Canada.  Kingston is truly an Ontario hidden gem.

• Read more: The Ultimate Kingston Ontario Weekend Itinerary
• Things to do in Kingston – Don’t Miss This Ontario Gem

30. Confederation Bridge

The Confederation Bridge links Prince Edward Island with the country by the Trans Canada Highway. It is the longest bridge in the world crossing ice-covered water at 12.9 km long. It opened in 1994 and is a thrill to drive over. Read: Things to do in Prince Edward Island ( PEI )

31. Charlottetown

Charlottetown is the capital of Prince Edward Island and is home to the ongoing Charlottetown Festival showcasing Anne of Green Gables. But this charming east coast town has much more to it. With farm and fish-to-table dining, boutique hotels, arts, and culture plus a picture-perfect harbour, this is one of Canada’s hidden gems. Read more: Things to do in Prince Edward Island (PEI)

32. Quebec City

Quebec City is North America’s European city. Discover the old-world charm of Quebec’s capital city. Old Quebec’s centerpiece is the striking Chateau Frontenac where visitors can get a taste of Victorian-style luxury. There are historic sites throughout Quebec with its historic district designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site right in the heart of the city center. Read: The 27 Best Things to do in Quebec City

33. Wendake

Wendake is a First Nation’s Settlement just 15 minutes from the Old Town of Quebec. This 300-year-old community was established by Wendat people after they were driven from their settlements on the Great Lakes. You may have heard of the Huron Peoples, but they are trying to eliminate that name as it was given to them by early European settlers.

Today the Wendat community has a population of 3000 people and welcomes visitors to stay and learn about their way of life. Read: From Wendake to Cree Nation

34. Old Montreal

Montreal itself is a modern and hip city, but wandering into the historic district of Old Montreal and be transported back in time. Notre Dame Cathedral is the central point of Old Montreal and from here you can get lost among the cobblestone streets and historic monuments and buildings.

Read more: Where to Stay in Montreal and The Very Best Things to do in Montreal, Canada

35. Mont Tremblant

The year-round adventure destination was built around Mont Tremblant Ski hill. It has an amazing village below with fine dining, nightlife and cafes. Just a 90-minute drive from Montreal, Mont Tremblant has everything for an amazing weekend escape.

36. Dempster Highway

Canada’s ultimate drive is along the Dempster Highway. Here you can drive all the way to the Arctic Ocean. It starts in Inuvik in the Northwest Territories and goes to Dawson City, Yukon.

Along the way you pass the Arctic Circle, the picturesque Tombstone Mountains and plenty of wildlife. It’s not uncommon to see Grizzly Bears on the side of the road! This is an adventure of a lifetime. See our Dempster Highway Adventure

37. Dawson City

Dawson City is a national historic site that has preserved its town facades from the Klondike Gold Rush days. This wild west town is a rip roaring good time where you can experience the midnight sun, views of the Tombstone Mountains and drink the famous Sour Toe Cocktail. Visit Dawson City, Yukon – The Quirkiest Town in Canada and The Sourtoe Cocktail – Dawson City’s Dead Toe Cocktail

38. Ivvavik National Park

It’s the premier spot in Canada to view Grizzly bears in the wild and it’s one of the most remote national parks in the country. Be dropped off in the middle of the Canadian wilderness to stay in prospector tents surrounded by a thin electric wire fence. You are in the corridor of grizzly country and spectacular views of Ivvavik National Park. Enjoy reading: Ivavvik, Falling in Love with the Rugged and Remote

39. Mackenzie Delta

The Mackenzie Delta is a unique ecosystem in the far North of Canada that empties into the Arctic Sea. The Mackenzie River empties into the delta.

For half a year it is covered with ice creating creeks, ponds and tributaries as it waits to flow out to the ocean. When the ice melts, it creates the most remarkable views. You might enjoy: The Most Isolated Places on Earth

We haven’t visited Newfoundland yet, but we knew that if we didn’t include it, we’d hear about it. When travel opens up again, it is as the top of our list! But for now, these are two places in Newfoundland that we can’t wait to visit.

40. the Torngat Mountains

Jennifer Smith Nelson of  Travel and Happiness  wrote about the Torngats in our Canada adventures post and we cannot wait to see this view for ourselves.

41. Gros Morne National Park

Matt Bailey of  LiveLimitless  shared this photo with us in our best Canadian Adventures round up and we have wanted to go ever since.

42. Grasslands National Park

Dave and I both visited Saskatchewan in our pre-blogging days and look forward to going back soon. We haven’t visited enough of it to really explore all the places to see, but one that should not be missed is Grasslands National Park to see its wild bison. Read: 15 Best Things to do in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

And there you have it. The most iconic places to visit in Canada that we’ve been to . With three bonus places that we haven’t.

Where have you been in Canada? What should we add to our list?

Check out these articles about Canada

• 13 of the Best Canadian Road Trips – That We’ve Done
• The Best Canada Adventures: 36 Amazing Trips from Coast to Coast
• Canada Winter Activities You Just Cannot Miss!
• Canadian Food – Delicious Dishes and Drinks from Canada
• Funny Canadian Stereotypes Plus a Few That Are True
• Fun Facts About Canada That Will Make Smarter
• The Great Canadian Word
• Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Alberta Canada
• 35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada
• Places to Visit in Ottawa this Autumn

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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7 thoughts on “41 Beautiful Places to Visit in Canada”

thanks for sharing this amazing post

Keep up the wonderful piece of work, I read few posts on this internet site and I think that your blog is really interesting and holds bands of fantastic information.

Thanks for sharing such a great and informative post. nice work keep it up.

Thanks For Sharing such and interesting informating. I want to visit such a beautiful pleces and enjoy the nature

Wow came across one fact that Canada is the secondly largest in the world, icefields parkway looks magical, is it real?

Being an international student we all need such places to visit, can’t wait to go to this place I have visited very few of them but I will definitely complete all 41 , Thanks,

Thanks for the Nice Post , Jasper National Park does not look real , Its magical , I really want to visit this place and witness the beauty by myself.

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

23 Mar 2023

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

40 Best Places To Visit In Canada In 2024

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

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

1. Niagara Falls: An Elegant View

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

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

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

Location: Ontario, Canada

Must Read: 10 Vancouver Hotels 

2. Whistler: Your Perfect Ski Resort

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

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

Things To Do:

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

Location: British Columbia, Canada

3. Quebec City: Explore The French Influence

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

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

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

Location: Québec, Canada

Suggested Read:  10 Chinese Restaurants In Toronto 

4. St. John’s: An Artist’s Retreat

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

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

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

Location: Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

5. Tofino: A Water Lover’s Paradi

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

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

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

Location: Vancouver Island, Canada

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6. Churchill: Seek Tons Of Adventure

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

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

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

Location: Manitoba, Canada

7. Old Montreal: Discover An Old-World Charm

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

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

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

Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada

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8. Banff National Park: A Popular Destination

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

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

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

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

9. Stanley Park: The French Connection

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

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

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

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

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10. Butchart Gardens: A Picture-Perfect Land

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

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

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

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

11. Okanagan Valley: A Paradise For Tourists

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

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

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

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12. Gros Morne National Park: Explore The Geological Diversity

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

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

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

13. Algonquin Provincial Park: A Perfect Spot For Tourists

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

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

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

Location: Ontario 60, Ontario K0J 2M0, Canada

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14. Yoho National Park: A Must Visit Destination

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

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

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

Location: Field, BC V0A 1G0, Canada

15. CN Tower, Toronto: For A Remarkable Time

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

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

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

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

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16. Lake Louise: Perfect For Adventure Sports

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

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

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

Location: Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada

17. Bay Of Fundy: Witness The Oceanic Experience

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

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

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

Location: New Brunswick, Canada

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18. The Yukon: A Magical Delight

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

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

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

Location: Yukon, NW, Canada

19. Garibaldi Lake: With Wondrous Sights

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

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

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

Location: Garibaldi Provincial Park, British Columbia, Canada

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20. Pyramid Lake: A Picturesque Water Resource

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

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

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

Location: Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada

21. Cheakamus Lake: For Stunning Views

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

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

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

Location: Garibaldi Provincial Park

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22. Maligne Lake: Paradise For Photographers

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

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

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

Location: Jasper National Park

23. Hornby Island: A Simple Slice Of Land

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

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

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

Location : British Columbia

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24. Cape Breton: An Unexplored Land

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

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

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

Location:  Nova Scotia

25. Forillon National Park: Hike The Untamed Trails

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

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

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

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

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26. Moraine Lake: Witness The Clear Reflection Of Mountains

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

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

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

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

27. Perce Rock: Admire The Natural Beauty

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

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

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

Location:  Percé, Quebec, Canada

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28. Mingan Monoliths: Gape At The Oldest Monoliths

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

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

• Explore the nearby places at your own pace. 

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

29. Jasper National Park: Get Ready For Adventure

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

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

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

Location:  Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada

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30. Peggy’s Cove: Explore The Hidden Gem

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

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

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

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

Things To Do: Trekking Location: Yukon, Canada

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32. Osoyoos: Taste Wine & Get The Best Views

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

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

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

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

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

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34. The Grotto: Haven For Adventure Fanatics

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

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

35. Montmorency Falls: Explore The Highest Falls

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

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

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36. Capilano Suspension Bridge: Lap Of Nature Calls You

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

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

37. Waterton Lakes National Park: Bags All The Titles

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

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

Suggested Read: 5 Best Spots For Scuba Diving In Canada 

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

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

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

39. Kluane National Park and Reserve: For Wildlife Enthusiasts

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

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

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40. Mont Tremblant: For Skiing Activities

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

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

Further Read: Top Beaches In Canada 

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Canada

What is the most beautiful part of Canada?

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

Where should I go in Canada for the first time?

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

Where should I spend my vacation in Canada?

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

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

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

What is the best time to visit Canada?

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

What is Canada known for?

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

What is famous in Canada to buy?

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

What are 3 things Canada is famous for?

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

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Visit Canada: Top 20 Things to Do and Must See Attractions

The 20 best things to do in canada (bucket list).

You’re planning to visit Canada and you’re looking for the best things to do during your trip?

You’re at the right place!

Canada is the perfect destination to enjoy natural wonders, vibrant cities and unparalleled outdoor adventures.

In order to help you plan your trip, I’ve thus put together this guide of the 20 best things to do in Canada , with all my best tips to make the most of your visits.

So, what are the best things to do in Canada?

Let’s find out!

1. Montreal

2. quebec city, 3. the niagara falls, 5. thousands islands, 6. mont tremblant, 8. banff national park, 9. icefield parkways, 10. jasper national park, 11. rocky mountaineer, 12. canada’s other best national parks., 13. vancouver, 14. gaspé peninsula, 15. whale watching in canada, 16. calgary, 17. nova scotia, 19. the canadian northern lights, 20. snowmobiling in canada, you’re traveling in canada these articles will help you, visiting canada:all best places to visit.

In order to help you plan your stay in Canada, I have prepared detailed itineraries depending on your trip duration . You should read them after reading this article.

You can find them here, simply click on the orange links to read the articles:

• Itinerary: One week in Canada: The perfect itinerary to visit Canada in 6, 7 or 8 days!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Canada: All my best tips for organizing your 10-day trip to Canada
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Canada: How to visit Western Canada in 15 days.
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Canada: My epic itinerary to visit Western and Eastern Canada in 21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Canada: How to visit Eastern Canada in a month!

They will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

Let’s start this Canada travel guide with the city of Montreal . It’s clearly one of the must-see cities in Canada!

I’ve lived in this incredible multicultural city for more than 3 years. I can tell you that Montreal is a lively place with many great things to do!

Here are the best places to see in Montreal:

• The Mount-Royal plateau and its typical colorful houses with outdoor stairs
• The Mount-Royal park , the best place to admire a beautiful view over the entire city
• The Old Montreal , the city’s oldest neighborhood
• The Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal and its impressive architecture
• The old port , to take a stroll along the St. Lawrence river
• Saint-Joseph’s Oratory , a large religious monument built on Mount Royal’s hillside.

For more information about Montreal, you should read my detailed city guide : The 45 best things to do in Montreal.

To continue this list of Canada’s must-see attractions, you should discover the Quebec province’s capital and 2nd largest city, Quebec City .

Quebec City has a more European feel than its big sister Montreal . Instead of huge buildings, you will discover a charming city with many ancient houses and small alleys.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site has really kept its warm and friendly atmosphere. It feels a bit like France!

During your visit, you should see:

• The Château Frontenac, the city’s most iconic landmark and one of the most photographed hotel in the world
• The Terrace Dufferin offers a incredible view of the Château, the St. Lawrance river, Île d’Orléans and Quebec City lower town.
• The Quartier du Petit-Champlain, the oldest neighborhood in North America, with its illuminated pedestrian alleys and the Place Royale, where the city was founded in 1608
• The Citadel of Quebec and its fortified walls
• The Plains of Abraham, a large green space. There, the Quebec City Summer Festival takes place every summer. Canada’s largest music festival already hosted many big international stars, such as the Rolling Stones, Muse, Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga,… There is something for every taste!

While in Quebec City, you should also go to Montmorency Falls, located only a short drive from downtown. Did you know that these falls are higher than the Niagara Falls?

The place is really impressive, especially in winter when the river is partially frozen. Don’t forget to walk on the suspension bridge above the falls to enjoy a breathtaking view!

To plan your trip to Quebec City, you hould read my dedicated guide: How to visit Quebec City?

Even if the Montmorency Falls are quite impressive, I must admit than they are less famous than the Niagara Falls.

It’s simply one of the best things to do in Canada and one of the places I enjoyed the most during my trip to Canada.

If you want to admire the Niagara Falls, you can choose between:

• Doing a boat ride: put on your poncho, jump on the boat and enjoy a cold shower! From the Niagara Falls’ bottom, you will discover their thundering roar and incredible power.
• Taking the elevator: you will descend 45 m by elevator, directly behind the fall. There, you will enjoy a unique view, and you might get a little wet.
• Go to the top of the Skylon Tower and enjoy its panoramic terrace
• Choose the “luxury” version, and fly over the falls in a helicopter. Even if its quite expensive, you will remember it your whole life!

As Toronto isn’t far from the Niagara Falls, you should definitely include a visit of Canada’s largest city in your itinerary.

With its many skyscrapers, major shopping areas and trendy neighborhoods with a bohemian atmosphere, Toronto feels like the Canadian New York City.

When visiting the city, you should definitely go to the top of the CN Tower. It’s clearly the city’s must-see attraction!

Take the elevator to the 113th floor, then walk on the transparent floor and discover an incredible panorama of the whole city.

If you’re still not impressed, you should try the world’s highest hands-free walk: the EdgeWalk. You will walk on the edge of the CN Tower, only attached by a trolley and a harness system. Unfortunately, this attraction didn’t exist yet when I visited Toronto!

The other best places to see in Toronto are:

• The Royal Ontario Museum (or ROM), Canada’s biggest Natural History Museum
• The Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada and its 16 000 marine animals
• The Distillery Historic District, where you will discover many restaurants, art galleries and trendy clothes shops
• The Art Gallery of Ontario
• The Toronto Island Park, with its charming vacation houses from the 20’s

If you want to discover all the best places to see in Toronto, you should read my article: The 15 best things to do in Toronto.

When visiting the Niagara Falls and Toronto, I decided to make a short detour to discover a less touristic place, the Thousand Islands.

Boat trips are the best way to visit the 1000-islands archipelago. Most of these tours are starting from the cities of Rockport, Gananoque or Kingston. You can choose between a tourist boat (with around 50 people on board) or a private boat.

During your cruise, you will discover some of the archipelago’s 1865 islands.

On these islands, there are many wooden cabins , a few luxurious houses and even a castle!

Mont Tremblant is one the best places to visit in Canada if you want to admire the Canadian autumn’s magnificent colors.

There, you will enjoy a real postcard landscape, with its colorful red, orange and yellow trees. If you’re visiting the Quebec province in autumn, you definitely have to spend some time in Mont Tremblant!

Walk on the marked trail starting from the village to reach the summit of Mont-Tremblant. During your hike, you will get a great view over the lake, and the magnificent colorful trees. Don’t forget your hiking shoes, as the trail is quite steep!

In winter, Mont Tremblant is among Canada’s best ski resorts. This ski area offers more than a hundred ski slopes and a 7-hectare snow park , with many Tabletops, Rails and boxes.

And during summer, you can enjoy a Summer sledge, a miniature golf and of course many nautical activities on the lake.

Visiting Ottawa is another thing you should do during your trip to Canada. Canada’s capital city has a lot to offer!

The best things to do in Ottawa are:

• Parliament Hill , the Federal Government of Canada’s home.
• Climb on top of the Peace Tower, and admire a 360° view
• Take a stroll along the Rideau Canal. In winter, the canal becomes the world’s biggest outdoor and natural ice-skating rink!
• Discover the BY Market neighborhood  and enjoy its vibrant atmosphere.
• Visit one of the Ottawa’s many museums: the Canadian Museum of History, the Canada Aviation and Space Museum, the Canadian Museum of Nature, the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian War Museum.

If you want to know everything about Canada’s capital city, youy need to read my guide: The 10 best things to do in Ottawa .

The Canadian Museum of History is one of the best museums I’ve ever visited, and it hosts impressive exhibitions. There, you will discover the Canadian History and an incredible Totem collection.

If you’re spending a few days in Ottawa, you should definitely go to Canada’s most visited museum!

Banff National Park offers some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country. I couldn’t do a Top 20 of the best things to do and see in Canada without mentioning it!

This natural park is located in the Canadian Rocky Mountains . There, you will enjoy a magnificent scenery, as these mountains are renowned for being some of the world’s most spectacular.

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Banff National Park also hosts the world’s 2 most photographed lakes: Lake Louise and Lake Moraine. Their impressive turquoise blue is due to the silt carried by the glacier waters. You won’t believe it until you see it!

The 21-kilometer long Lake Minnewanka is another place you should visit in the National Park. It’s famous for being Banff’s largest lake.

In the park, you will also enjoy many hiking trails. From there, you will get the best views of the lakes and the mountains to take the perfect souvenir photo!

The Icefield parkways (the Alberta Highway 93) is one of Canada’s most beautiful panoramic roads . It’s clearly one of Canada’s best points of interest!

This 230-km long highway connects the cities of Banff and Jasper , through the National Parks. On the road, you will find many parkings and points of views to admire the magnificent natural landscape and take incredible pictures.

You will discover many waterfalls, canyons, glaciers, rivers and lakes: it’s clearly heaven on earth for nature lovers!

During your road-trip, you will see:

• Bow Lake, one of the most famous
• Peyto Lake , shaped like a fox according to some people, or like a wolf according to others!
• Waterfowl Lake
• The Columbia Icefield and the Athabasca Glacier
• The Tangle Falls
• The Valley of Five Lakes

You will find every information you need on the Icefields Parkway official website.

You should discover the Icefield Parkway early in the morning, as the road is very touristic and often crowded.

If you spend a night in Jasper or in Banff , you will have enough time to admire the many beautiful viewpoints. The next morning, make the return trip to see the places you missed!

Jasper National Park is the largest natural park in the Rocky Mountains.

In this park, don’t miss the Athabasca Falls, located on the highway 93A, close to the Icefield Parkways. There, you will admire a breathtaking scenery and feel the powerful waters coming from the glacier’s melting.

You can also hike on the glacier, or take a special bus with huge wheels specifically designed to drive on it.

The other best places to see in Jasper National Park are:

• The 50-meter deep Maligne canyon
• Maligne Lake, and the famous Spirit island in the middle
• Medicine Lake

If you’re an hiking lover, you should do the Skyline Trail. During your walk on this 43-kilometer long marked trail, you will discover splendid viewpoints and breathtaking landscapes.

You’re travelling to Canada, and you want to discover a unique experience?

Then, you should definitely try one of the world’s most beautiful (and also most expensive, I must warn you) train ride, the Rocky Mountaineer!

The Rocky Mountaineer is clearly the best way to admire the Canadian Rocky Mountains’ majestic beauty. During the day, you will travel through Banff and Jasper National Parks, and discover places you can’t access by car.

Then, you will stop for the night in splendid hotels. The meals are also excellent in this luxury train!

You can choose between many itineraries, starting from different cities ( Vancouver , Jasper) and with different lengths (from 2 days to 3 weeks). The least expensive trip is a 2-day itinerary and costs 1050€ per person.

If you want to plan your Rocky Mountaineer adventure, visit the official website.

Did you know that there are more than 45 National Parks in Canada?

Even if Banff and Jasper are the 2 most famous, there are many other incredible places to discover!

If you’re an hiking lover and if you want to enjoy magnificent landscapes , then Canada is really the perfect destination for you.

The other most beautiful National Parks in Canada are:

• Prince Edward Island National Park , where you can swim at many sandy beaches
• Pacific Rim National Park, one of Canada’s best surf spots
• Bruce Peninsula National Park, renowned for its turquoise waters
• Gros Morne National Park featuring more than 100 km of marked trails
• Cape-Breton Highlands National Park: there, follow the Skyline Trail to admire the sunset over the St. Lawrence river
• La Mauricie National Park between Montreal and Quebec City
• Wood Buffalo, Canada’s largest National Park.

In Canada, entrance fees are charged at most National Parks, but youth under 17 will get free admission. You definitely have to take your children with you!

Vancouver is a really pleasant city you should visit during your holidays in Canada.

Did you know that Vancouver is ranked 3rd best city in the world for its quality of living? You will be amazed by both its urban and natural atmosphere!

Here are some of Vancouver best points of interest:

• Taking a stroll in Stanley Park
• Go to Granville Island, to buy the best local products
• Cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge, 70 meters above the river
• Discover the Seawall, a 22-km long waterfront promenade. It’s clearly a paradise for cyclists and joggers!
• Visit VanDusen Botanical Garden

You will find more informations about the best places to visit in Vancouver in my article: The 25 best things to do in Vancouver.

The Gaspé Peninsula is one of the best places to visit in Canada.

This region is becoming more touristic every year, as it was awarded as one of the must-see tourist destination in Canada by the National Geographic!

The best things to see in Gaspé Peninsula are:

• Gaspésie National Park is an hiker’s paradise
• The Percé rock (meaning the pierced rock), in front of the small town of Percé
• The many Norther Gannets living on Bonaventure Island: you can get really close to them!
• The Forillon National Park and its magnificent cliffs overlooking the sea
• The 100-hectare Redford Gardens

Whale Watching is among the best things to do during your stay in Canada.

The best place to see whales is the Saguenay Fjord and more specifically Tadoussac Bay. The whales are coming here every year as they always find enough food in the bay.

In Tadoussac, you will have the choice between many cruises: you can do a whale watching boat trip on a large tourist ship, on a small Zodiac or even on a Kayak if you’re feeling adventurous!

The best season to observe the whales starts mid-May and ends in October , and you’ll be more likely to see a lot of them in September and October. If you’re travelling to Canada at this time of the year, you should definitely do a whale watching tour!

If you want to visit Banff and Jasper National Parks, then you should make a short stop in Calgary .

This city is idealy located between the Rocky mountains and the Canadian Prairies.

Calgary is a lively city all year round, but it’s mostly renowned for its annual rodeo exhibition held every July for 10 days, the Calgary Stampede.

This incredible show attracts more than 1 million people every year, and is broadcasted live nationwide. During the festival, you can enjoy many rodeos of course, but also exhibitions, concerts and a fair.

Moreover, people are baking free and unlimited fresh pancakes everywhere in the city! Maybe that’s why I loved Calgary so much! 😁

There are many other things you can do in Calgary:

• Go to Winsport Olympic Park, to try the bobsleigh or the longest zip line in North America.
• Visit the Heritage Park Historical Village and ride on a steam train or a paddle wheel boat
• Walk along the Bow river, and discover Saint Patrick’s Island
• Eat at the Kensington Village where you will find many great restaurants
• Go to the top of Calgary Tower, enjoy its breathtaking 360° view and walk on the glass floor
• Discover the Glenbow Museum and learn everything about Calgary’s History
• Take a picture of the beautiful illuminated Peace Bridge

You will find all the best things to do in Calgary in my article: Visit Calgary: the 11 Must-See attractions.

You can only fall in love with Nova Scotia ‘s authentic charm. With its incredible natural landscapes, it’s one of Canada’s most beautiful provinces!

This region is also renowned for its amazing seafood. It’s clearly a great destination for your holidays on Canada’s East Coast.

Nova Scotia’s best points of interest includes:

• Drive on the 300-km long Cabot trail and discover magnificent costal landscapes.
• Visit the city of Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s North America’s best preserved colonial town
• Discover Nova Scotia ‘s capital, Halifax
• Hike in the Cape-Breton Highlands National Park. You will admire a magnificent sunset from the top of the cliffs. (It’s also a great place for proposals !)
• Take a souvenir photo at Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse, an iconic red and white lighthouse overlooking the bay

Even if Yukon isn’t as touristic as some other Canadian provinces, it’s still one of the most impressive.

If you want to travel off the beaten path, it’s clearly a great destination for your holidays!

In Yukon, you will enjoy magnificent wild landscapes and often feel completely alone. You will also discover the First Nations, the indigenous people of Yukon, and their fascinating culture and traditions.

During your itinerary in Yukon , you should see:

• The Kluane National Park and Reserve and Mount Logan, Canada’s highest summit
• Whitehorse, the province’s capital. It’s the best place to stay if you want to discover the region.
• The Yukon Wildlife Preserve if you want to observe caribou and buffalo in their natural environment
• Miles Canyon and its many hiking trails
• The Takhini Hot Springs with their 40° waters

During your trip to Canada, you can also discover the Nothern Lights, a fascinating and incredible show coloring the sky at night.

The closer you will be to the magnetic North Pole (starting from 60 degrees of Latitude ), the more Northern Lights you will observe.

The best season to observe them is in Winter, as you must have a complete clear sky and total darkness. You will also have to stay up at night, as most of the Northern lights are appearing between 22h and 3h.

The best places to observe the Northern Lights are Yukon and the Northwest Territories (close to Yellowknife ). You can also go to the North East Inuit regions of Nunavut and Nunavik.

If you want to get better chances to observe this breathtaking natural phenomenon, you can check this website  for a real time Northern Lights forecast.

Snowmobile (also called Skidoo) rides are among the best things to do in Canada.

In Canada, there are many marked trails and you can enjoy your Skidoo rides in complete safety. Choose your organized tour to discover the beautiful Canadian snowy landscape, for a few hours or even a few days!

You can go snowmobiling in most Canadian provinces. However, if you’re a beginner, you should try the easy trails along the St. Lawrence river or near Charlevoix.

The Laurentides, the Lanaudière, La Mauricie, Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, the Eastern Townships and Gaspé Peninsula are the best places to enjoy a great Skidoo ride!

And you, what do you plan to do during your trip to Canada?

Discover all my articles about Canada : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Canada are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to do in Canada
• 20 Best Things to do in Quebec – All best places to visit in the French-speaking province!
• Itinerary: One week in Quebec: How to visit Quebec in 6, 7 or 8 days, with all my best tips!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Quebec: An amazing 10-day itinerary in Quebec
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Quebec: All my best tips to visit Quebec in 14, 15 or 16 days
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Quebec: the perfect 3-week road trip in Quebec !
• Road trip in Canada: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
• Road trip in Quebec: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15 and 21 days
• Calgary : Top 11 things to do during your visit
• Montreal : 33 best things to see and do
• Ottawa : 15 epic places to visit
• Quebec City : Top 17 things to do and see
• Toronto : The 17 things to do during your stay
• Vancouver : Top 25 places to visit and activities
• Toronto in 3 days – The perfect itinerary to visit the city in 72 hours!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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12 beautiful places to visit in Canada

Colorful historic fishing villages, remote islands, snow-capped mountains, and more..

From popular ski towns to secluded islands accessible only by boat, Canada is home to a range of stunning landscapes and destinations. On Fogo Island on the country’s eastern edge, you'll find meadows filled with wildflowers and berries. In the Yukon , witness the magic of the Northern Lights without any light pollution to mar the views. And in the Canadian Rockies, explore glacial lakes in brilliant shades of turquoise and emerald.

Throughout the year, each landscape changes with the seasons, making those moments of fleeting beauty feel all the more special to experience. Whether you’re looking for a luxury retreat in an alpine village or a food-focused road trip route, these gorgeous Canadian destinations deliver. Below, you'll find our favorites—plus the hotels and accomadations to book so you can see them for yourself.

Banff National Park

You can’t mention Canada’s natural splendor without conjuring up images of Banff National Park . From the clear blue waters of Lake Louise to Johnston Canyon’s towering caves and waterfalls, the scenery in Banff National Park offers a stunning backdrop for hiking, mountain biking, whitewater rafting, canoeing, backcountry skiing, and so much more.

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is an iconic Banff hotel with incredible views of its namesake waterway. Nearby Moraine Lake Lodge is another cozy yet luxurious option in the Canadian Rockies, where guests receive a complimentary outdoor activities package.

Vancouver Island

On Vancouver Island ’s remote west coast, you’ll find temperate rainforests, dramatic cliffs, and sheltered inlets. Clayoquot Sound , Mount Arrowsmith , and Pacific Rim National Park are a few of the island’s renowned wildlife habitats where you can see the area’s remarkable geodiversity. While discovering the region’s many beaches , keep your eyes peeled for orcas out at sea and black bears on the water’s edge.

Take a seaplane into Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge to sleep in decked-out safari tents and bathe in cedar tubs. Or opt for a stay in the quaint fishing village of Tofino, where you’ll find the rustic-chic Wickaninnish Inn perched on the edge of the Pacific.

Thousand Islands National Park

An archipelago of 1,864 islands in the St. Lawrence River, Thousand Islands National Park is easiest to explore by boat. Whether you access the islands via speedboat or sea kayak, expect to see old castles, lofty pine trees, and plenty of scuba diving spots. For a taste of your own private paradise, rent a home on a private island like Little Ninette Island .

The quintessential ski resort town, Whistler is nestled between the 2,000-foot-tall mountain of the same name and the nearly 8,000-foot-tall Blackcomb Peak . While the alpine village is packed with snow sport enthusiasts in winter, the glacier-fed lakes, 1,000-year-old cedar forests, and plentiful wildflowers keep the region beautiful throughout the year. The elegant suites at Nita Lake Lodge in Creekside provide spectacular lake views, while the Fairmont Chateau Whistler is a popular ski-in, ski-out lodge that sees its fair share of returning guests every year.

The Cape Breton Highlands

Rolling hills and dramatic cliffs meet the sea at Cape Breton Highlands National Park , which is home to a third of the historic Cabot Trail , along with numerous waterfalls and beaches. Time your visit to lobster season (usually May through late July) to enjoy the local spoils at their freshest. You’ll find a selection of modern motels like the Iona Heights Inn on the 110-mile-long Cape Breton Island , or head to the 83-year-old Keltic Lodge for a leisurely waterfront stay.

Fogo Island

With caribou grazing on rolling hills and humpback whales swimming along the shore, Fogo Island feels worlds away from city life. According to locals, there are seven seasons on the island: Winter for snowmobiling and tobogganing; pack ice season for snowshoeing; spring for crabbing and foraging; cod trap berth season that anticipates the coming bounty; summer for blooming wildflowers; berry season for foraging and canning; and late fall for windy days and bonfire nights. Check out Fogo Island Inn , an architectural wonder set on stilts at the edge of Joe Batt’s Arm, where you’ll find plenty of the warm hospitality that’s associated with Newfoundlanders.

Kluane National Park

Often overlooked as a travel destination due to its rugged and isolated topography, Yukon is home to picturesque icefields, glaciers, and seemingly endless snow-topped mountain ranges. Kluane National Park’s Watson Lake is a prime spot for seeing the Northern Lights from November through March. Stay in glass chalets or alpine log cabins at Northern Lights Resort and Spa in Whitehorse , about 1.5 hours from the park, for the best vantage point.

Filled with colorful wooden houses and spectacular churches, the Lunenburg Historic District is a small Nova Scotian fishing village (and UNESCO World Heritage site) that dates back to 1753. While Old Town Lunenburg offers its own accommodation options, it’s also a lovely day trip from Trout Point Lodge , tucked away in the Southwest Nova Scotia Biosphere Reserve (which is a UNESCO Heritage Site as well). The wilderness resort and hotel specializes in expert-guided adventuring—think stargazing, forest bathing, and multi-course culinary experiences.

Jasper National Park

Situated in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park is home to a selection of natural features unique to this corner of the globe. You’ll find Medicine Lake , an alpine pool that’s known as a “disappearing lake” due to its annual natural drainage in winter, along with the cavernous limestone gorges of Maligne Canyon . While in the dramatic region, stay at Glacier View Lodge , which offers modern suites and sweeping views of Columbia Icefield from towering glass walls.

Charlevoix region

From the rolling hills of the Flavor Trail (doted with farms, bistros, bakeries, cheese shops, and other epicurean delights) to the bike- or sled-friendly slopes of Le Massif de Charlevoix , it’s impossible to pick just one beautiful spot in the Charlevoix region . Be sure to stop by the Hautes Gorges de la Rivière Malbaie and Les Grands Jardins national parks, or choose a spot along the 800-mile coast of St. Lawrence River for breathtaking hikes.

For a high-end retreat, check into the Hotel & Spa Le Germain Charlevoix or Fairmont Le Manoir Richelieu ; for a more low-key getaway, check out more intimate cottages and cabins like Repere Boreal .

Gros Morne National Park

At Gros Morne National Park ’s Tablelands, you can hike over preserved ocean avalanches and the red rocks formed by ancient tectonic plate collisions. Check out Gros Morne Adventures Day Trips for guided sea kayaking, hiking, and backpacking adventures throughout the winding fjord valleys and alpine mountain summits. After an action-packed day, tuck in for a comfortable night’s rest right on the waterfront at Gros Morne Seaside Suites .

Yoho National Park

Another gem of the Canadian Rockies, Yoho National Park isn’t as busy as nearby Banff, yet it’s just as packed with gorgeous natural features. The glacial waters of Emerald Lake are the main draw for tourists but Lake O’Hara , Takakkaw Falls , and Paget Peak are just a few of the other jaw-dropping destinations worth visiting. Located within the national park, Cathedral Mountain Lodge offers luxury log cabins amid a forest setting, while nearby Emerald Lake Lodge has a direct view of the eponymous mountain lake.

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The 21 Most Beautiful Places in Canada, Picturesque Islands and Remote Mountains Included

Top travel advisors weigh in on must-see Canadian destinations.

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As the world’s second-largest country, it is no surprise that Canada is home to myriad stunning locales, from large metropolises and iconic national parks to quaint small towns and remote islands. However, since the Great White North is so vast, it’s important to plan your trip with care and attention. To help take the guesswork out of planning, T+L A-List Travel Advisor Jessica Renshaw recommends working with a professional who, like her, specializes in Canada. For example, Renshaw notes that “certain locations in Canada are best to self-drive, while others will [require] you to access remote wilderness, either by seaplane or charter plane.”  Marc Telio, another T+L A-List Travel Advisor and Canada expert, encourages travelers to head off the beaten path, in both destination and trip time. “To avoid tourists and to see more than the most popular spots, I suggest that guests consider new locations and shoulder seasons. And don’t be shy about choosing a destination in colder months, or a northern destination that requires warmer clothing. In Canada, we say there is no bad weather, [just] bad equipment.” 

Without further ado, here are 21 of the most beautiful places in Canada, plus expert tips and recommendations.

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

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This picturesque lakefront town near Niagara Falls is especially popular with oenophiles. Sample wines from a few local makers , then spend time strolling in Historic Old Town, which is lined with charming mom-and-pop shops, boutiques, bakeries, and eateries. For time in nature, enjoy the greenery-filled Queen’s Royal Park, where you'll find stunning views of the Niagara River and Lake Ontario. In terms of accommodations, travel advisor Alicia Thompson of TTI Travel , a Virtuoso Agency, recommends booking a stay at the Oban Inn , which she describes as “quaint, with great service, accommodations, food, and location.”

Tofino, British Columbia

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A quick 45-minute flight from Vancouver , Tofino is an outdoor lover’s oasis. Thompson says that, no matter your experience level, you can enjoy hiking, year-round surfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding here. You’ll also find several stunning stretches of sand, including the nearly 10-mile-long Long Beach. Part of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, this wide sandy beach is nothing short of show-stopping — and, if you’re lucky, you may even spot grey whales from the shore. And don’t skip town without checking out the Rainforest or Big Tree trails, both of which are lined with towering trees and lush flora. 

Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland

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Renshaw calls this national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site “stunning for the outdoor lover.” Park visitors can explore awe-inspiring fjords on foot or mountain bike, or via boat or kayak, and wildlife spotting opportunities abound. The park is also a Dark Sky Preserve, making it an excellent stargazing spot .

Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia

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Annapolis Valley, situated in Nova Scotia’s countryside, is surrounded by rolling fields and vineyards, quaint towns, and scenic hiking trails. Per Renshaw, it’s also “becoming a well-known wine destination.” No trip here is complete without a visit to Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, which spans 17 acres, and its lush grounds overlook a tidal river valley.

South Shore, Nova Scotia

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According to Renshaw, Nova Scotia’s South Shore is “host to beautiful towns like Lunenburg and Mahone Bay.” In Lunenberg, stroll though Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to take in its colorful historic buildings, waterfront views, and eclectic shops. The area is also home to dozens of lighthouses, including the 19th-century Sandy Point Lighthouse. 

Quebec City, Quebec

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For a taste of France in North America, head to Quebec City , an urban center that's more than "400 years old, which is older than Canada itself,” says Renshaw. The picturesque city is known for its cobblestone streets, eye-catching European architecture, and an enchanting Old Town, which happens to be the most intact walled city in North America north of Mexico. Splurge on a room at the castle-like Fairmont Château Frontenac , which is a Quebec City landmark.

Clayoquot Sound, British Columbia

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Those craving an off-the-beaten-path escape with abundant outdoor activities and wildlife-spotting opportunities should consider the Clayoquot Sound, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Renshaw recommends taking a “wildlife marine safari [to] view orca whales, grey whales, sea otters, seals, and black bears scouring the beach for shore crab.” Make Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge , a luxury glamping property, your home base for exploring; lodge guests can partake in unique on-site activities like heli-fishing and salmon snorkeling.

Montreal, Quebec

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Fora Travel co-founder and advisor Henley Vazquez likes to think of Montreal as a “mini Paris," with incredible shopping, art, and culinary scenes. Old Montreal is (much) quieter than bustling downtown, and a visit to the former feels as if you’ve taken a step back in time. The historic neighborhood is famous for its narrow cobblestone streets, cafes, and lively squares, including Place Jacques-Cartier.

Niagara Falls, Ontario

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“ Niagara Falls is such a quintessential travel destination, it almost feels campy,” says Vazquez. “But, the falls are incredible.“ Niagara Falls is actually comprised of three waterfalls — Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls — and the best way to see them is via boat. Alternatively, adventure seekers can tie their laces tight and follow one of the hiking trails that offer postcard-worthy views of the falls. 

Golden, British Columbia

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“A key stop on British Columbia's acclaimed Powder Highway, and nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Golden, British Columbia is pure paradise for outdoor enthusiasts,” says Fora travel advisor Alli Widman . The small town — which serves as a gateway to Yoho, Glacier, Banff, Jasper, and Kootenay national parks — offers picture-perfect mountain scenery. It’s also home to the Golden Skybridge , where visitors can wander tranquil forests and wilderness via suspension bridges or trails. An alpine coaster and zip line adventures are also offered here.

Joffre Lakes Park, British Columbia

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With ice-capped peaks and turquoise-hued lakes, Joffre Lakes Park in British Columbia is a sight to see. “Hike Joffre Lakes Trail, and make sure to go to the top so you don't miss the beauty of all three lakes,” says Fora travel advisor Dahlia Swerdloff . In colder months, the park transforms into a snow globe-esque winter wonderland with myriad skiing and snowshoeing opportunities.

Cheakamus Lake, British Columbia

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Located in Garibaldi Provincial Park, this glacier-fed lake is flanked by mountains that rise 5,000-plus feet above its tree-covered shoreline. While Swerdloff says views of the lake are spectacular in any season, in the winter months “the best view is at the top of the Symphony chairlift on Whistler Mountain.” If visiting in the warmer seasons, she recommends hiking High Note Trail, which “wraps around the back of Whistler mountain, giving you ample time to take in the beauty of this lake.”

Haida Gwaii, British Columbia

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Also known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, this remote archipelago just south of Alaska is described by Swerdloff as “remote, uncrowded, and unspoiled.” Awe-inspiring wildlife can be found on land (including black bears and deer), in the sea (several species of whales, sea otters, and seals), and in the sky above (bald eagles, sandpipers, and hundreds more). She also notes that the destination boasts some of “the best chinook salmon and halibut fishing in the world.” For a truly incredible experience, book a stay at one of Haida Gwaii’s many fishing lodges.

Banff National Park, Alberta

Banff is one of Canada's most beautiful national parks; whether you visit in summer or winter, you're sure to be dazzled by the destination's mountains, turquoise lakes (including the iconic Lake Louise), cascading waterfalls, and lush pine forests. “Outdoor activities abound with hiking, biking, rock climbing, kayaking, fishing, and trail running,” says Widman. Banff also has natural hot springs where visitors can relax.

Tombstone Territorial Park, Yukon Territory

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Telio counts Tombstone Territorial Park in Canada's Yukon Territory as one of the country’s most scenic places. "This remote landscape, accessed by air or the legendary Dempster Highway, is home to countless wildlife species, permafrost landforms, and rich Indigenous culture," Telio says. The park’s jagged peaks are even more incredible when explored on foot .

Kluane National Park, Yukon Territory

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“The sheer and remote beauty of this park is indescribable,” Telio says of Kluane National Park. Those who make it to the destination will surely stop at Kathleen Lake , which is known for its crystal waters and the snow-capped peaks surrounding it. Trails, canoes, campsites and even A-frame tents are available right near the shore.

Somerset Island, Nunavut

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Those craving a secluded escape might head to Somerset Island. Part of the Canadian territory of Nunavut, this expansive uninhabited island is described by Telio as the “perfect location for Arctic exploration,” with “endless canyons, riverbeds, coastline, and even frozen sea ice.” During the summer season, it’s light here 24 hours a day, and you might spot Beluga whales congregating in the Cunningham Inlet. And there's more. “Polar bears wander the coastline, and other species include muskoxen, arctic fox, narwhal and a host of arctic birds,” says Telio.

Bonavista Peninsula, Newfoundland & Labrador

"This region in Eastern Newfoundland is a unique location filled with ultra scenic spots, dramatic seascapes, and over 50 small and welcoming communities,” says Telio of Bonavista Peninsula. His must-sees include Trinity, “an impeccably maintained ancient village, from where [you] can go whale-watching and iceberg viewing,” and the UNESCO Global Geopark , “where you can go to Spillar’s Cove and the Dungeons to see ancient geological formations coming out of the Atlantic Ocean, or hike the Skerwink Trail for stunning views of the open sea.”

Torngat Mountains, Newfoundland & Labrador

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Telio says the Torngat Mountains are “one of the most undiscovered locations in Canada, and arguably among the most beautiful.” Expect jagged peaks, glacier-carved fjords, and blue-hued, iceberg-filled waters here. Telio also recommends stopping by Torngat Mountains Base Camp, where Inuit hosts welcome guests. Travelers might also spot polar bears, whales, walruses, and countless other species while visiting ancient Indigenous village sites like Hebron and Rose Island.

Prince Edward Island

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What Prince Edward Island lacks in size (it is Canada’s smallest province) it more than makes up for in coastal scenery. There are 90-plus beautiful beaches here, including a handful of red-sand ones, as well as charming small towns to explore. The capital city of Charlottetown features tree-lined streets, a historic waterfront area, and some of the country’s best seafood.

Victoria, British Columbia

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There’s so much to love about British Columbia’s capital city. Spend time strolling the Inner Harbour before stopping at Fairmont Empress for cocktails (pro tip: snag a table on the outdoor patio for prime views of the water). Old Town Victoria is lined with colorful buildings, while Butchart Gardens — about 30 minutes from the city’s downtown area — is home to over 900 varieties of flora. 

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21 Best Places to Visit in Canada for an Unforgettable Trip

Oh, Canada! A nation painted with the strokes of cosmopolitan cities, fascinating history, mind-boggling diversity, and, let’s not forget, mother nature’s masterpiece. That’s right!

We’re heading towards the places to visit in Canada , an enthralling journey that’ll leave you with a bucket load of memories and a desire to come back for more. Let’s dive right in, shall we?

What's in this article?

Banff National Park, Alberta

Let’s kick off our adventure with one of the greatnest National Parks of Canada , the gem of Banff National Park . Situated in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff is where the wilderness whispers tales of enchantment.

Its sprawling landscape boasts serene turquoise lakes reflecting the majestic peaks, lush alpine meadows adorned with wildflowers, and dense forests that play hide and seek with the wildlife.

In Banff, you’re never short of an Alpine adventure. Whether it’s hiking the resplendent Lake Louise trail, riding the gondola for a panoramic view of six mountain ranges, or skiing down the snow-covered slopes, each activity will have your adrenaline pumping.

And if you’re someone who loves to mix thrill with chill, the soothing Banff Upper Hot Springs is just the right spot to unwind after a day full of outdoor escapades.

Niagara Falls, Ontario

Next stop, Niagara Falls – a spectacle that needs no introduction. The thunderous roar of millions of cubic feet of water cascading down is a sight to behold. The heart-stopping thrill of the Hornblower cruise taking you to the base of the Horseshoe Falls is an unforgettable experience.

Don’t miss the stunning illumination of the falls at night, a light show that paints the cascading waters with a myriad of vibrant hues.

But there’s more to Niagara than just the waterfalls . From the floral clock and butterfly conservatory to the historic town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, there are endless tourist attractions to discover in the Niagara Falls area.

And for the wine lovers among you, a tour of the region’s award-winning wineries will be the perfect cherry on top.

Quebec City, Quebec

Next up, we’re transporting you back in time to Quebec City . As one of the oldest cities in North America, Quebec City is a living museum. Its historic heart, Old Quebec, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, characterized by fortified walls, cobblestone streets, and French colonial architecture that’ll leave you charmed.

Culture vultures, prepare to be enthralled. Quebec City, with its European charm and joie de vivre, is a carnival of arts, music, theater, and mouth-watering cuisine. Be it the energy of the Summer Festival or the enchantment of the Winter Carnival, there’s a celebration for every season in Quebec City.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver , a city where the ocean meets the mountains and urban life blends seamlessly with nature. This bustling west coast seaport is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in Canada , offering a unique mix of cultures that’s reflected in everything from its food to its architecture.

Beyond the skyline, you’ll find Stanley Park, larger than New York’s Central Park, offering a plethora of outdoor activities.

From biking along the boardwalk to exploring the hiking trail s or visiting the park’s many gardens, there’s never a dull moment. Just a short drive from downtown, you’ll find Grouse Mountain, perfect for hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter.

Don’t forget to try the local sushi – it’s some of the best places to visit in Canada for sushi lovers.

Prince Edward Island

Switching gears, let’s escape to Prince Edward Island (PEI) , Canada’s smallest province, yet bursting with charm and hospitality.

Known for its verdant farmlands, iconic red-sand beaches, and historic lighthouses, PEI is a coastal haven that invites you to unwind.

Literature enthusiasts might find PEI familiar as it’s the setting for the beloved “Anne of Green Gables” novels. Visit Green Gables Heritage Place and experience the world that inspired L.M. Montgomery. For foodies, PEI is a paradise – famed for its seafood, particularly the succulent lobsters and world-class mussels.

Jasper National Park, Alberta

Our journey now takes us to another marvel of the Canadian Rockies – Jasper National Park . Unblemished by the touch of mass tourism, Jasper is an untouched wilderness, home to a vast array of wildlife, from grizzlies and black bears to moose and elk.

But it’s not just the daytime when Jasper shines. Once the sun sets, the park transforms into a celestial wonderland. As the world’s second-largest Dark Sky Preserve, it offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities. So, don’t forget to look up and get lost in the endless expanse of twinkling stars.

Churchill, Manitoba

Brace yourself, for we are about to venture into the wild frontier of Churchill , Manitoba, often dubbed as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World.” Yes, you heard that right! Here in Churchill, polar bear sightings are more common than anywhere else, making it a hot spot for wildlife enthusiasts.

Just remember, these are wild animals and deserve our respect and distance.

But the awe-inspiring wonders don’t end with the mighty polar bears. Churchill also sets the stage for one of nature’s most dazzling phenomena – the Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights.

So, be ready to gaze upon the swirling lights as they dance across the night sky in a symphony of greens, pinks, and purples. It’s truly a spectacle you won’t want to miss.

Toronto, Ontario

From the wild wilderness, let’s move to the vibrant city life of Toronto , Canada’s largest city.

A mosaic of cultures, Toronto is as diverse as it’s dynamic.

With its striking skyline dominated by the iconic CN Tower, waterfront promenades, castles and multicultural neighborhoods, it’s the city where the world lives.

The city’s food scene mirrors its diversity. From Chinatown to Little Italy, Kensington Market to Greektown, every corner of Toronto offers a culinary journey around the world. And if you’re a sports fan, catching a game of the beloved Toronto Maple Leafs or the Toronto Raptors is an experience to cherish.

St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

Let’s head over to the easternmost city in North America, St. John’s . Known for its colorful row houses, historic landmarks, and a harbor that’s been buzzing with activity for centuries, St. John’s exudes a charm like no other.

St. John’s is also renowned for its natural beauty. A walk around Signal Hill will give you panoramic views of the city and the rugged coastline. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot some icebergs or humpback whales.

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria , the capital of British Columbia, offers a delightful blend of old-world charm and new-world experiences. As one of the oldest cities in the Pacific Northwest, Victoria boasts a bustling harbor, heritage architecture, and a vibrant culinary scene.

The Butchart Gardens, with its 55 acres of floral display, offers a riot of colors and is a feast for the eyes. And don’t miss the Royal BC Museum, one of Canada’s greatest cultural treasures, to delve into the region’s natural and human history.

Calgary, Alberta

Let’s head to Calgary next, known for its high quality of life and proximity to the Canadian Rockies.

It’s a city that combines the best of all worlds – modern entertainment, educational attractions, and outdoor adventure.

You can’t miss the Calgary Stampede, an annual rodeo festival that’s hailed as the “Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” And the Calgary Tower, offering panoramic views of the city and the mountains, is another experience you can’t afford to miss.

Whistler, British Columbia

Whistler , home to one of the largest ski resorts in North America, is an adventurer’s paradise.

Winter or summer, this mountain town is full of activities.

From world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter to mountain biking and golfing in the summer, Whistler is full of fun all year round.

Also, don’t miss the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, a feat of engineering that provides breathtaking views of glaciers, forests, and mountain peaks.

Ottawa, Ontario

Next on our list is Ottawa , Canada’s capital city. The city is brimming with national sights and treasures, including the iconic Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the National Gallery of Canada.

Don’t forget to visit ByWard Market, one of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets, offering a wide variety of specialty shops and restaurants. And the Canadian Museum of History, just across the Ottawa River, provides fascinating insights into Canada’s cultural heritage.

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown , the birthplace of Canada, is a city that brims with historic charm, scenic waterfronts, and culinary delights. Don’t miss the historic Province House, where the idea of Canada was born, and the Charlottetown Festival that puts on a great show of Canadian performing arts.

If you’re a seafood lover, Charlottetown won’t disappoint. Its seafood is so fresh; you’ll be spoiled for choice!

Montreal, Quebec

A rendezvous with Montreal promises to be an affair to remember. The city’s European charm, blended with its North American character, makes it unique.

With its rich history, vibrant nightlife, and renowned cuisine, Montreal has a bit of everything.

Don’t miss the historic Old Montreal, with its cobbled streets and grand buildings. And the view from Mount Royal Park, the city’s largest greenspace, is a sight for sore eyes.

Whitehorse, Yukon

Whitehorse , the wilderness city, offers a unique blend of civilization and wilderness. Surrounded by mountains and set on the banks of the Yukon River, Whitehorse is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.

The city is also a great spot to catch the Northern Lights. With its clear nights, Whitehorse is one of the best places to visit in Canada for those seeking this natural spectacle.

Kelowna, British Columbia

Kelowna, nestled in the heart of British Columbia’s wine country, is a fantastic place to visit for food and wine lovers. With its vineyards, orchards, and locally sourced cuisine, Kelowna is truly a treat for the senses.

If you’re a fan of outdoor adventures, the city’s stunning landscapes, ranging from mountains to beaches, offer plenty of options for hiking, biking, and water sports.

Tofino, British Columbia

The charming coastal town of Tofino is a haven for nature lovers. Known for its wild natural scenery, Tofino offers everything from beachcombing and birdwatching to surfing and whale watching.

A trip to Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is a must for anyone visiting Tofino. Its lush rainforests and stunning beaches offer a mesmerizing experience.

Fredericton, New Brunswick

Last but not least, let’s visit Fredericton , the cultural capital of New Brunswick. Known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and dynamic festivals, Fredericton has plenty to offer visitors.

Don’t miss the Historic Garrison District, which hosts daily re-enactments and performances during the summer. And the Beaverbrook Art Gallery, featuring works from local and international artists, is a treat for art enthusiasts.

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Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Canada

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

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

1. Yellowknife/Northwest Territories

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

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

Few people experience driving across the Trans-Canada Highway or riding the Canadian (a 1950s train journeying from Toronto to Vancouver over 3-4 days) in a single trip. Still, in my opinion, anyone who does so will remember it for the rest of their lives! 

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

My favorite highlights…

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

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2. The Rockies

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

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

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

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

My highlights…

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

3. Vancouver Island, Vancouver and the Johnstone Strait

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

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

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

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

My must-do highlights…

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

4. Lake Louise

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

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

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

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

My favourite highlights…

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

5. Churchill, Manitoba

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

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

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

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

6. On the trail of the Titanic in Nova Scotia

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

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

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

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

7. Niagara Falls

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

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

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

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

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

My highlights… 

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. The Bay of Fundy

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

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

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

10. Quebec City

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

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

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

11. Old Montreal

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

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

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

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

12. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, British Columbia

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

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

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

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

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

13. Whistler

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

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

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

14. Nahanni National Park Reserve

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

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

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

15. Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

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

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

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

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

16. Cape Spear

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

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

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

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

17. Lake Magog

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

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

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

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

18. Abraham Lake

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

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

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

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

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

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

19. Glacier National Park

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

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

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

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

20. Yoho National Park

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

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

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

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

Lee Hubbard - writer and photographer Lee mostly spent his formative years as a junior Spielberg wannabe, devouring movies in front of a cinema screen, but then a “year out” after graduating turned into a not-too-shabby six years of working, travelling, and volunteering across the globe. Attempting to satisfy his curiosity and passion for discovery both at home and abroad, he became a concierge at a luxury hotel and a member of the prestigious Les Clefs d’Or, whilst still finding time to visit over 60 countries in his time off. On his jaunts, he combines all his passions – seeking out film locations, discovering off-the-beaten-track adventures, and extraordinary wildlife encounters which so far have included meetings with orangutans, whale sharks, gorillas, and polar bears. He counts New Zealand, Canada, Tanzania, Denmark, Borneo, and Mongolia among his favourite travel destinations. Find Lee on LinkedIn or Facebook . Hotel Reviewing Experience - Member of the prestigious Les Clefs d’Or and asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Discover Hong Kong , Stayokay Utrecht, Discover Ireland, and Visit Canada . Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Listed as a top UK travel journalist .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gorgeous photos, makes me want to go to Canada!

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

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

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

Thanks for your comment Jessica!

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

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

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

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

Thanks Pixie!

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FinanceBuzz

16 Overlooked Places to Visit in Canada

Posted: November 17, 2023 | Last updated: December 6, 2023

If you've been to Canada before, you've probably visited cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. But if you feel you've seen everything the country offers, think again.

This vast country still has plenty of gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you are flying, driving, or taking the train to Canada, a unique adventure awaits you.

Here are 16 places in Canada that will make you feel you've found a hidden gem (and potentially be a more affordable travel option since they're somewhat a secret). 

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Tofino, British Columbia

First on our list is the town of Tofino, on the west coast of Vancouver Island. This charming town is a popular destination for surfers and nature lovers alike.

Vancouver Island offers plenty of places to retire comfortably, and with its beautiful beaches, surfing, and laid-back atmosphere, Tofino is the perfect place for island residents of all ages to relax and unwind.

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Newfoundland and Labrador

Newfoundland and Labrador is a single province home to some of the most stunning scenery in Canada. It will take your breath away with rocky coastline, lush forests, and even glaciers.

Don't forget to check out the scenic Gros Morne National Park.

Prince Edward Island

Look no further than Prince Edward Island for a place to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. This small island province is home to the Confederation Bridge, red-sand beaches, and picturesque towns.

It's also home to the Green Gables Heritage Place, a must-see for fans of the classic Anne of Green Gables book series. Check out Charlottetown, the provincial capital full of history and charm.

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Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia is another beautiful province on the east coast of Canada. It is home to a stunning coastline, charming small towns, and plenty of seafood.

Halifax, the capital city, boasts unique pubs and a friendly atmosphere. Don’t miss the Cabot Trail, one of the most scenic drives in Canada.

Hopewell Rocks

Located between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, Hopewell Rocks are a must-see for any nature lover. Tidal erosion created these unique rock formations over millions of years, and they stand up to 70 feet tall.

Take a kayak out for a different perspective on these wonders of nature.

The Okanagan Valley

In the Southern Interior of British Columbia, the Okanagan Valley is a must-visit for any nature lover.

The Okanagan Valley has something for everyone, with its beautiful lakes and mountains. And don't forget to check out the local wineries, which offer some of the best wine in the country.

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Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming town in Ontario. It is home to beautiful Victorian architecture, quaint shops, and friendly people.

It's also another fantastic place to enjoy some of the best wine in the country. Since you are in the area, you can also check out the more touristy Niagara Falls.

Jasper National Park

Located in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park is one of the most scenic national parks in the country. It is renowned for its beautiful mountains and glaciers.

While most people visit nearby Banff, Jasper National Park is definitely worth visiting, especially during the fall.

The North Shore of Lake Superior

The North Shore of Lake Superior is one of Canada's most beautiful and scenic areas. It is a nature lover's paradise with its rocky coastline, lush evergreen forests, rolling hills, beaches, and crystal-clear waters.

Check out small towns like Schreiber, Terrace Bay, and Marathon along the shore. They are full of charm and character, and many hold festivals throughout the year.

For example, Schreiber Heritage Days in July features guided hikes, fun activities, delicious food, and entertainment.

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Falcon Lake, Manitoba

Falcon Lake is in the beautiful Whiteshell Provincial Park in the province of Manitoba. It is known for its cottages, clear waters, and sandy beaches.

It's also a great place to go hiking, biking, or just relax and enjoy the scenery.

Badlands of Alberta

The hoodoos in the Badlands of Alberta are one of the most unique natural formations in Canada. Erosion created these strange but beautiful rock pillars — which stand as high as 20 feet — over time.

Don't forget to check out Dinosaur Provincial Park, located nearby. This park is home to some amazing dinosaur fossils.

Tobermory, Ontario

Tobermory is a town on the Bruce Peninsula in Ontario. This town is home to turquoise waters and charming shops. It's also the perfect place to enjoy some of the best scuba diving in the country.

With its shipwrecks and vibrant marine life, Tobermory is a must-see also for any scuba enthusiast. Plus, Manitoulin Island is a short ferry ride away.

Eastern Townships of Quebec

Quebec’s Eastern Townships are a group of charming towns in the province of Quebec. These towns are home to beautiful scenery, unique architecture, and that all-too-delicious food, poutine.

Thunder Bay, Ontario

Thunder Bay is a beautiful city in the province of Ontario, Canada. It is home to gorgeous Lake Superior, friendly people, and delicious food.

If you are an outdoor lover, Thunder Bay is your gateway to some of Canada's best hiking and camping.

St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market

Home to the largest year-round farmers market in the country, St. Jacobs is the perfect place to enjoy fresh food, homemade goods, crafts, and friendly people.

Don't forget to check out the various outlet stores and the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse for live theater.

Dawson, Yukon

Dawson is a small town in Yukon. It was the home to the Klondike Gold Rush in the 1800s and resembles a town from old Western movies.

A gateway to northern road trips via the Dempster Highway, it also hosts the Dawson City Music Festival in July.

Bottom line

From charming towns to scenic national parks, there's something for everyone in Canada — even water activities, as Canada is home to about 20% of the world's freshwater.

Start planning your trip today. And remember that you can save on travel by using one of the best travel credit cards .

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8 Great Places Across Canada to Visit This Summer

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

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

Photo by Tobias Negele/Shutterstock

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

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

1. Prince Edward Island

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

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

Where to stay

• Book now: The Great George

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

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

Courtesy of Travel Manitoba

2. Churchill, Manitoba

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

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

• Book now: Lazy Bear Lodge

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

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

Photo by Rita Petcu/Shutterstock

3. Métis Crossing, Alberta

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

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

• Book now: The Lodge at Métis Crossing

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

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

Photo by Russ Heinl/Shutterstock

4. Halifax, Nova Scotia

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

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

• Book now: Muir Halifax

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

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

Photo by Nick Hawkins/Tourism New Brunswick

5. The Fundy Trail Parkway, New Brunswick

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

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

• Book now: Beach Street Inn

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

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

Photo by Alex Gorey/Unsplash

6. Kootenay Rockies, British Columbia

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

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

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

• Book now: Heather Mountain Lodge ; Purcell Mountain Lodge

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

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

Photo by Edward Koorey/Unsplash

7. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

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

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

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

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

The sweeping landscapes of Kamouraska are in eastern Quebec.

Photo by darengd/Unsplash

8. Bas St. Laurent, Quebec

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

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

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

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

• Book now: Auberge du Portage

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

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Canada's top vacation spots for summer 2024 were revealed and there are so many hidden gems

Add these under-the-radar cities and dreamy small towns to your summer travel list.

A street in Quebec. Right: A hiking trail in Alberta.

Summer is just around the corner, and it's time to start planning some trips.

If you're not sure where to go, the top places to visit in Canada for summer 2024 have been revealed, and they include small towns with European flair and destinations with tons of outdoor adventures.

Airbnb has revealed the top summer vacation spots in Canada for 2024, detailing the best places to visit in the country if you're looking for the perfect staycation.

In a press release shared with Narcity, Airbnb laid out the top 10 domestic travel spots to visit this year. Here are the top three destinations for Canadians:

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• Blue Mountain, Ontario

Located about two hours from Toronto, the Blue Mountains is a year-round Ontario vacation spot known for its spas, beaches, and skiing and snowboarding. The destination was named the top vacation spot in the country for summer 2024.

Blue Mountain Resort is a popular place to visit, with beautiful nature, a luxurious Scandinavian spa and a pedestrian village that feels like a slice of Europe.

During the summer months here, you can hike along scenic trails, ride an open-air gondola, speed through a forest on a mountain coaster and more.

Just 30 minutes away, you'll find Wasaga Beach, one of the province's top beaches with white sand and pristine shores.

La Haute-Gaspésie, Quebec

Named the second top vacation spot in the country, La Haute-Gaspésie in Quebec is where you'll find quaint coastal villages nestled between towering cliffs and the endless Gulf of St. Lawrence.

A nature lover's paradise, the region offers hang-gliding, canyoning, ziplining, an open-air geode mine, and hiking in Gaspésie National Park in Saint-Anne-des-Monts, which is home to more than 25 peaks over 1,000 metres high.

In the national park, you can also enjoy kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing and biking, and may be able to spot moose.

Quebec City, Quebec

Finally, Quebec City was named the third top destination for summer in Canada.

With its cobblestone streets, French culture and historic old town, Quebec City is a Canadian destination where you can get a taste of Europe.

Must-visit spots here include Old Quebec, which is full of local shops and charming little streets, including the fairytale-like Rue du Petit Champlain, visiting the Château Frontenac hotel, Quebec City’s most famous landmark, admiring the Basilica Cathedral Notre-Dame de Québec, and checking out the art galleries and antique shops of the Old Port.

Nature lovers will enjoy Montmorency Falls, a waterfall that's even taller than Niagara Falls located in a scenic park, and foodies will love Quebec City's booming gastronomic scene.

Other top destinations for Canadians this summer include more under-the-radar spots like Kananaskis, Alberta, where you can spot incredible wildlife like moose, elk and bears, and Dieppe, New Brunswick, which offers a European downtown and proximity to one of the warmest beaches in Canada .

Top summer destinations in Canada

Here are the top vacation spots in the country for summer 2024, according to Airbnb:

• La Haute-Gaspésie, Québec
• Québec City, Québec
• Mont-Tremblant, Québec
• Dieppe, New Brunswick
• Hubbards, Nova Scotia
• St. Catharines, Ontario
• Kananaskis, Alberta
• Gander, Newfoundland and Labrador
• Edmundston, New Brunswick

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.

• 7 Beautiful Canadian Small Towns & Cities You Can Visit For A Mini Vacation ›
• 10 of the best places in Canada for first-time visitors, according to the Narcity team ›
• This small town near Toronto with European vibes is Canada's top summer vacay spot for 2024 ›

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10 of the best places in canada for first-time visitors, according to the narcity team, 11 must-see destinations in canada for newcomers, according to the narcity team (photos), canada travel news: travel advisories, all-inclusive vacations & more you may have missed, you're not a true ontarian unless you've been to at least 6 of these 11 summer destinations, 7 via rail trips to take from toronto this summer for under $200 round trip, 8 via rail summer getaways from ottawa that cost less than $200 round trip, 7 via rail trips you can take across canada this summer for less than $250, 8 beautiful canadian small towns & cities to visit in 2024 if you'd rather be in europe, 7 best islands to visit in canada in 2024, according to local experts, 8 of the most beautiful cities & small towns in canada, according to canucks, 8 incredible summer destinations to visit around vancouver, according to a travel writer, these are canada's 11 'most magical' locations that you have to visit at least once.

Roaming Required

25 incredible places to visit in canada.

Last updated: 25 June 2023

Let me just say this right from the start, Canada has to be one of the most beautiful places on the planet ! OK, so we haven’t had the opportunity to explore ALL of Canada (yet) but we have plans to return soon and visit more of this incredible country. So in the meantime we’re thrilled to share with you some of our favourite places to visit in Canada, well technically our favourite places in Alberta and British Columbia 😍

If you’re reading this then I presume that you’re probably interested in heading to Canada soon and, if so, boy are you in for the adventure of a lifetime ! I don’t think that it’s an exaggeration to say that our road trip through Alberta and British Columbia was one of the best adventures we’ve ever had, and that’s saying a lot.

One of my favourite travel quotes is “ travel far enough, you meet yourself ” and I think that perfectly sums up our Great Canadian Adventure. We experienced moments which were the epitome of this quote, like the time we were sitting on the side of the road gazing out across a frozen pristine lake with staggering snow-capped mountain peaks in the foggy distance, the only sound, the cracking of the ice. The magnificence of nature. It was in these quiet moments that we marveled at the splendour of the natural world and felt incredibly small in the grand scheme of things. In other words, it was really pretty and we were left speechless 😉

Favourite Places to Visit in  Canada

I’ve put the following 32 photos from 25 incredible places in the order that we took them so that it might be helpful to you when planning your own Great Canadian Adventure. These weren’t the only the only stops we made during our entire road trip but these are among some of the best photos we took so if you’re interested in more photos or insights for your travel planning then don’t hesitate to drop us a line 😊 So with that being said, let’s have a look at a 32 INCREDIBLE photos from 25 of our favourite places to visit in Canada .

Stop 1: Capilano River Regional Park

Welcome to the Capilano River Regional Park , it’s the perfect place to stop for a picnic and with views like this it, it’s hard to resist! Located a short 5 min drive from the world-famous Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. When we visited there were plenty of people enjoying the view and with wide open space it didn’t really make an impact. One point to note, the grassy area with the view doesn’t have any picnic tables so keep that in mind. There are tables to the side but they don’t have this view…which is kind of the whole point, right?

Stop 2: The town of Pemberton

We discovered Pemberton completely by accident! We were heading north along the 99 road from Whistler to Mt Currie but due to an avalanche we needed to stop in Pemberton and await the next road closure update. What a perfect place to stop. We’ve never been so happy to be delayed and spend time just admiring the view.

Stop 3: Lillooet Lake Road

We left Pemberton and headed north along the 99 road until we hit the avalanche road closure! It turned out that Google Maps was wrong and the road wasn’t clear and it was going to be a 3 hour wait to find out if the road was going to be clear. Faced with a challenge of waiting it out or sitting in the car and keep moving, we opted for the latter, which isn’t a bad thing when we came across this view. Too good not to stop, we pulled over and admired the view 😍

Stop 4: Three Valley Lake

The Trans-Canada Highway from Kamloops to Revelstoke took us by the extremely picturesque Three Valley Lake . You’ll know when you’re approaching it because you will see the Three Valley Lake Chateau in the distance, it looks like a red castle! As you get closer, you will see the hotel up close as well as the Ghost Town , a series of kitschy historic buildings which creates the 1800’s era of the Pioneers.   

Stop 5: Trans-Canada Highway

Once you admire the still waters of Three Valley Lake, hit the road again and continue driving the Trans-Canada Highway towards Revelstoke and take in the views. Seriously, it was like driving through a postcard 💖 I will never forget what it felt like being on the open road and having this view surround us, it felt like as far from real life as possible.

Stop 6: The Road to Banff

And just when you thought that the scenery couldn’t get any more dramatic, the final stretch towards Banff National Park raises the stakes! The only word I can think of is STAGGERING ! The mountain ranges were spectacular! If you’re travelling with a friend, slow down and take plenty of photos because this view needs to be captured.

Stop 7: The View from the Banff Gondola

The Banff Gondola provides a spectacular view like none other 😍 The opportunity to take a photo from the sky really puts things into perspective and made us love the Canadian landscape even more. It takes about a full 8 minutes to reach the summit and it’s 8 minutes of BEAUTY !

Stop 8: The Top of Banff Gondola

Is the 8 minute Banff Gondola journey worth taking to the summit? Definitely 😍

Once you reach the top of the Sulphur Mountain you’ll be treated to an incredible view, a view which makes you feel like you are actually on top of the world. However, in addition to this, there’s also some really informative exhibits inside the centre which are worth visiting. Oh, and there’s a bear statue on the observation deck made out of mosaic mirror pieces which is ridiculously cool #glitterbear

Stop 9: Lake Louise

Welcome to Lake Louise .  The turquoise crystal clear waters of the most well-known lake in Banff National Park, if not in all of Canada, is a MUST-VISIT during your road trip through Alberta. We visited in May so the lake was still frozen but there were pockets of blue peeking out from beneath freshly fallen snow, given a hint of the dazzling waters that Lake Louise is known for.

Our suggestion is to take your time and soak in as much of the grandeur as possible.

Stop 10: Lake Louise

If the crowds of people get a little too much for you at the main entrance to Lake Louise then it’s worthwhile taking a walk because 5 min in either direction will give you a bit of space to yourself another perspective to appreciate the view.

Stop 11: Waterfowl Lakes, Icefields Parkway

After spending the morning at Lake Louise, we hit the road and commenced our journey along the world-famous Icefields Parkway (93 road). The Icefields Parkway is considered to be one of the world’s greatest scenic drives and after driving it, we couldn’t agree more!

One of our favourite stops along the Parkway was Waterfowl Lakes , which was about an hour drive from Lake Louise. Roadside parking was available and unlike our stop at the frozen Bow Lake, we could walk right up to the water’s edge. This provided a unique opportunity to just take a quiet moment and appreciate the view.

Stop 12: Waterfowl Lakes, Icefields Parkway

I had a hard time trying to decide which of the Waterfowl Lakes photos I wanted to include in this point because I loved them both so much so I decided to include both. Doesn’t the view look like a postcard? Seriously, the beauty of Waterfowl Lakes was simply mind-blowing 💕

Stop 13: Howse Pass Viewpoint

And speaking of postcard perfect views, this is Howse Pass Viewpoint and where we stopped for lunch. Yup, picnic lunch on a bench with this view… just spectacular. Howse Pass Viewpoint is located on the Icefields Parkway, near Saskatchewan River Crossing, just before the David Thompson Highway intersection.

Stop 14: Weeping Wall

Located 25 min north of the Howse Pass Viewpoint is the Weeping Wall , a section of cliffs which, during summer, has cascading waterfalls which gives the appearance of a crying mountain. During our May visit, we did see several waterfalls but I imagine that during the warmer months it’s much more intense. Oh, and during the height of winter, the waterfalls free and ice climbers ascend to the top! Incredible!

Stop 15: Valley Floor (Opposite Weeping Wall)

Literally located opposite the Weeping Wall, take a walk on the valley floor and experience a completely different side of the Icefields Parkway. This is where I appreciated the changing contrasts of the landscape, everywhere we looked there was something else to marvel at. We spent longer than we expected (in typical fashion) and filmed some slow-mo videos with the areas covered in snow and only made it to the middle island of rocks by stone-stepping our way across the small rivers.

Stop 16: Spot the local wildlife

Oh my God! Stop the car! Stop the car!

To say that Roma was excited to see her first bear during our road trip would be a complete and utter understatement! Grabbing her camera, Roma was out of the car in a flash and heading back to the side of the road to photograph this magnificent animal 😍 Roma was quickly joined by other people eager to capture this amazing moment and before long the park rangers arrived and politely asked everyone to get back in their cars and enjoy the rest of their trip. Want to capture your own furry photo? Our advice is to drive slowly along the Icefields Parkway and keep your eyes peeled. M emories for life!  

Stop 17: 93A Scenic Drive

As we continued our drive north towards Jasper along the Icefields Parkway, we decided to take the 93A scenic drive as recommended by our Lonely Planet which is how we came across one of the most tranquil places of our trip. We stood there admiring the view and listening to the sounds of the babbling river and nothing else seemed to matter. It was just us and nature.

I have a 60 second video taken from this stop along the 93A scenic drive and I watch it whenever I need to take a break from the real world and go back to the serenity that we experienced here.

Stop 18: On the Road

“ Nothing behind me, everything ahead of me, as is ever so on the road. ”

– Jack Kerouac, On the Road

Stop 19: Glacier Skywalk

The Glacier Skywalk provides a unique opportunity to to walk on air and experience the Canadian Rockies like never before! Stand 918 feet (280 metres) above ground and look directly beneath you through glass floors! The hardest step is your first on to the glass, I can definitely attest to feeling it in my knees! After you get over that, you tend to be a little too distracted by the gorgeous view to realise just how high above ground you really are. Plus the staff were really friendly and willing to answer all your questions (and you know I had plenty of questions…)

One thing to note, you can’t drive to the Skywalk because all visits start and end at the Columbia Icefields Glacier Discovery Centre along the Icefields Parkway. This means that you will need to drive to the Discovery Centre, park your car (plenty of free parking), and then purchase your tickets from the ticket box, and then take the tour bus there and back.

If you’re a regular road tripper then this may not sound like the most ideal option but believe it or not, it actually works pretty well. There is no time limit at the Skywalk so you just take your time when you’re there and then take the next available bus to back to the Discovery Centre.

The benefit of taking your time is that once the crowds leave, you can have the whole place to yourself!

Stop 20: Glacier Skywalk

Seriously, why wouldn’t you go visit the Glacier Skywalk ?!? Just look at this view!

Stop 21: Goats and Glaciers Lookout

If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’ve stepped into an oil landscape painting then you need to make sure you stop at the Goats & Glaciers L ookout , not too far from the 93A scenic drive turn off, and witness something spectacular.

Doesn’t the view look like a painting? Seriously?!

Stop 22: Horseshoe Lake

Horseshoe Lake is located on the other side the 93A scenic drive exit so we had to double back on ourselves in order to experience both places but Horseshoe Lake was absolutely worth it, it was easily one of the most amazing places we visited during our entire trip. It was also one of the most photogenic too. One tip, once you park your car and walk towards the lake, make sure you find the path which leads you up to the cliff face to take your photos from above. It’s worth it.

Roma and I took a slew of photos and then just sat with each other and watched the scenery unfold in front of us. One of my happiest memories. You MUST add Horseshoe Lake to your Great Canadian Adventure itinerary.

Stop 23: Horseshoe Lake (another perspective)

If you look to the left side of this photo, this is the spot you need to be in order to take the first Horseshoe Lake photo. However, when you first arrive at the lake, this is the view you will be treated to. Take your time and admire the splendour of nature.

Stop 24: Patricia Lake

Patricia Lake was one of places I was most excited about visiting because it holds a special place in history – Project Habakkuk (ok, I promise I’ll be brief). During World War II, it was Geoffrey Pyke who had the idea to construct an aircraft carrier made completely out of ice (later Pykrete – a mix of ice and wood pulp) for use against German U-Boats in the Atlantic Ocean. This idea was approved by Prime Minister Winston Churchill and the green light was given to build a scale model (1:50 scale) and test it in the waters of Patricia Lake, Alberta. Eventually Project Habakkuk was scrapped and the scale model was left to melt and sink into the waters of Patricia Lake, the wreck can still be reached by divers today!

After spending years wanting to visit Patricia Lake and gaze out across the waters where WWII history took place, was it worth it? You better believe it!

Stop 25: Elk Island National Park

Following our drive through Banff and Jasper National Parks, we hit the road and headed towards Edmonton. This is where we discovered the existence of Elk Island National Park , located just 35 min from the middle of Edmonton, it’s a national park which is open round the clock every single day of the year, which makes it perfect for visitors and campers alike.

We drove into the National Park and followed the driving paths to each of the specific areas (Wood Bison, Beaver Pond, Shirley Lake, and many others). We parked the car and headed out to the hiking trails… for views for this one).

Beautiful,right?

Stop 26: Bison in Elk Island National Park

We had hope to see Bison during our visit to Elk Island National Park and look who came out to greet us! I think we almost swerved off the road in excitement seeing our first Bison in real life!

Would I recommend Elk Island National Park? Yes! Oh my goodness, yes!

Stop 27: Kananaskis (K Country)

Following on from our time in Edmonton we headed south towards Calgary because we wanted to experience Kananaskis Country , affectionately referred to K-Country . Kananaskis is home to 4,000 square kilometres of parks, hiking trails, and wildlife aplenty. If you’re a film buff then then you may appreciate that this is where Brokeback Mountain was filmed.

Taking the 40 road though K-Country was wonderfully scenic, and despite the fact that we didn’t encounter any wildlife (as advertised), the roadside stops and magnificent views more than made up for it. Highly recommended.

Stop 28: Kananaskis (another perspective)

Another perspective from our road side stop in Kananaskis Country , what an truly beautiful part of the world

Stop 29: Three Sisters Dam

Our drive through Kananaskis Country ended in a detour along Smith Dorrien Trail due to an unexpected road closure but it actually worked out pretty well because we ended up stopping at Three Sisters Dam , one of the most atmospheric stops in all of our trip.

This stop was one of my favourites because of the sensational view, the grey mist, the low-hanging clouds, and the complete absence of noise.

Stop 30: Port Mann Bridge, Vancouver

After spending a remarkable time exploring Banff, Jasper, Edmonton, and Calgary, we headed back towards Vancouver which meant crossing the ridiculously scenic Port Mann Bridge . Timing was on our side with this photo but make sure your travel companion is ready to take shot, fortunately for me, Roma was ready with her camera in hand.

Stop 31: Dominion Building

This is the interior staircase of the Dominion Building , one of the most beautiful and historic buildings in all of Vancouver. Located in the very trendy neighbourhood of Gastown, the Dominion Building was Vancouver’s first steel-frame high rise. It’s said that the staircase is the most instagrammed staircase in the world…

Stop 32: Vancouver Lookout

And last but by no means least, welcome to the Vancouver Lookout ! There’s no better way to experience Vancouver than by viewing it 167 metres above sea level in a 360 degree purpose-built lookout with really detailed information boards and helpful guides on hand. You know that I love a good bit of history so a good information board is always very much appreciated! Plus free WiFi too!  

Final Thoughts

I think it’s fair to say that if you’ve made it this far into this post then I hope you’re convinced that a visit to Canada MUST be on your To Travel List! And if Canada is already in your travel plans then I hope you’re even more excited to go exploring!   I do have one favour to ask, when you do make it to Canada and you start your own adventure,drop us a line because we want to see your photos and hear all about your travel!

Born and raised in Sydney Australia and currently based in London, I absolutely love exploring the UK and Europe at every opportunity. It still thrills me that all it takes is an hour flight to be in a new country with a completely different history, language, food, and culture that is just waiting to be experienced. We started our blog, Roaming Required, as a way to keep in contact with family and friends, and over the last 10 years, the blog has grown and evolved and it remains a real passion project. We've travelled a lot in the 10 years living in London and there's still plenty more to experience. So, why not join us for the adventure and come roam with us!

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Comments (13)

Your pictures are amazing ! There are so many beautiful places to visit in Canada, I really like your picture of the Three Valley Lake. And yes you don’t realize how big those mountains are until you compare it to the size of the car ahah.

Thanks Steven for the lovely compliment!

Now I can easily make my itinerary for our family vacation in Canada after reading it, Thank you for sharing this with us.

Canada is just stupidly amazing, I fell in love with it so much! I love your suggestions for some lesser-known spots too!

Thanks so much, Milly 😊 Hearing you loud and clear, driving around Canada is seriously like entering a postcard! One incredible view after another 🎉

This is really cool! I’ve spent more time in the eastern part of Canada (Montreal, St. John, and the Hopewell Rocks are at the top of our list there), but since we live in the western US now I’m SO excited to get to explore more of the western part of Canada as well! We’re just a couple hours drive from Calgary so that’s top of our list.

That’s so awesome!! You must be thrilled to only be a few hours from Calgary, the perfect starting point for another Canadian Adventure!! We’ve seen some amazing photos come out of eastern Canada so our eyes are firmly set there for our next visit 😊

Amazing Place! Great Pictures! Keep ti up!

Thank you, sir. I really appreciate it 😊

Positively stunning photos! You have curated an absolutely breathtaking view of the scenery that is sure to make all of us want to go to Canada. I know I do now!

Aww thanks so much, Carrie 😊 That honestly made my day! I’m thrilled that you love the photos, being able to visit Canada and experience that view is one of best things we’ve ever done!! I can’t wait to see your photos when you visit 🇨🇦

Great post guys, some incredible photos.

Having the car in the Banff photo really puts the amazing backdrop in perspective. I can’t believe you also saw a bear and a bison, these memories will remain with you forever. Thanks for sharing

Thanks so much for the comment, Janis 😊 We couldn’t agree more, the best decision we made was to hire a car! It gave us so much freedom to get around and really travel at our own leisure. Oh and I think we’re still riding high after meeting our roadside friends 🤗 You’re absolutely right, memories for life

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