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The 7 Most Underrated Cities in Canada

By Kaitlyn McInnis

The Best Cities in Canada to Visit in 2023

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

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

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

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Halifax, Nova Scotia

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

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Winnipeg, Manitoba

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

Two large bull elk in Banff National park. Animal Deer Wildlife Mammal Elk and Antelope

Banff, Alberta

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

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Quebec City, Quebec

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

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Victoria, British Columbia

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

Ottawa city skyline at sunrise in the morning park view over river

Ottawa, Ontario

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

New Brunswick garnered a reputation for being sleepy or straitlaced somewhere along the way—but the largest city in the...

Moncton, New Brunswick

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

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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.

top canadian tourist cities

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.

top canadian tourist cities

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.

top canadian tourist cities

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.

top canadian tourist cities

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.

top canadian tourist cities

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.

top canadian tourist cities

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 .

top canadian tourist cities

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.

top canadian tourist cities

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).

top canadian tourist cities

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.

top canadian tourist cities

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.

top canadian tourist cities

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.   

top canadian tourist cities

"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.

top canadian tourist cities

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.

top canadian tourist cities

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.

top canadian tourist cities

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

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Kluane National Park and Reserve

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Saint John, New Brunswick

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The best places to visit in Canada from cosmopolitan cities to the Rockies

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Apr 11, 2024 • 10 min read

top canadian tourist cities

Experience the best of Canada with these top places to visit © Hero Images / Getty Images

Visitors to Canada are equally as wowed by the wildlife and wilderness as they are by the cultural and culinary offerings in the cities that speckle this sprawling nation.

Look for polar bears on the arctic tundra of Churchill or cruise Vancouver’s curvy coastline in a canoe while gawking at the city skyline. Feast on five-star fusion cuisine in Toronto, or take in a street-side jam session in Montréal. 

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to experience something new, these are the best places to go in Canada. But you'll have to plan your trip ahead because this is the world’s second-largest country – you can’t see it all in just one go.

Best for diversity

A vibrant jumble of cultures and neighborhoods , Toronto strikes you with sheer urban awe. Will you have dinner in Chinatown or Greektown? Five-star fusion or a peameal bacon sandwich? In Ontario ’s coolest city, designer shoes from Bloor-Yorkville are accessorized with tattoos in Queen West, while modern art galleries, theater par excellence, rocking band rooms, and hockey mania round out the megalopolis.

This is far and away Canada’s most diverse city, as well as its largest – about half of Toronto’s residents were born in another country.

Local tip : Snap a photo of the CN Tower  (one of the top spots to visit in Toronto ). For an added thrill: check out Edgewalk, where you can shuffle around the tower’s perimeter while taking in unparalleled city views.

A couple ride bikes with fat tires over a snowy track by a lake in a moutainous area

2. The Canadian Rockies 

Best for mountain views

The sawtooth, snow-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 lush wilderness with ribbons of hiking trails , rushing whitewater and powdery ski slopes to satisfy travelers looking for mountain thrills. 

This is one of the best places to visit in Canada in winter , but there is outdoor adventure aplenty during the summer months, too.

Planning tip: For a different perspective, take the train and experience the grandeur from the comfort of your seat: luminous lakes, jumbles of wildflowers and glistening glaciers glide by as the steel cars chug up mountain passes and down river valleys en route to points east or west.

Wondering where locals go in Canada? Check out some of our writers' favorite spots .

3. Manitoulin Island

Best for Canada’s First Nations culture

The largest freshwater island in the world, floating right in Lake Huron’s midst, Manitoulin is a slowpoke place of beaches and summery cottages. Jagged expanses of white quartzite and granite outcroppings edge the shoreline and lead to shimmering vistas. First Nations culture pervades, and the island’s eight communities collaborate to offer local foods (wild rice, corn soup) and eco-adventures (canoeing, horseback riding, hiking). Powwows add drumming, dancing and storytelling to the mix for immersive experiences that connect you with the people and the land of the country that we now know as Canada.

A crossing at Downtown Vancouver where cars wait at the traffic lights and people cross the road during the day with snow-capped mountains across the strait in the background.

4. Vancouver 

Best for urban life with access to nature

Sea-to-sky beauty surrounds the laid-back, cocktail-loving metropolis of Vancouver . There are skiable mountains on the outskirts, beaches fringing the coast and Stanley Park ’s thick rainforest just steps from downtown’s gleaming skyscrapers.

For the best of both worlds, pick up provisions and a cold beer and picnic at one of the amazing city parks (it’s legal to drink alcohol at most of them during the summer). 

Shop and stroll through the diverse and charming neighborhoods – you may even spot a celebrity along the way. Known as “Hollywood North,” Vancouver is the filming location for many TV and film productions shot throughout the year.

Planning tip: With its mild climate and beautiful beaches , Vancouver is definitely one of the best places in Canada to visit in summer.

5. Baffin Island

Best for Inuit art and incredible landscapes

The rugged landscape of Baffin Island is home to cloud-scraping mountains and a third of Nunavut’s human population. It’s Canada’s largest island (the fifth biggest in the world) and the ideal place for an arctic safari where you can spot narwhals, belugas and bears in their natural habitat. The island’s crown jewel is Auyuittuq National Park – its name means “the land that never melts,” and indeed glaciers, fjords and vertiginous cliffs fill the eastern expanse. The park is a siren call for hardcore hikers and climbers – and more than a few polar bears.

Local tip: Baffin Island is also a center for Inuit art; studios for high-quality carving, printmaking and weaving can be found in many of the small towns.

Young women roasting marshmallows on a campfire on a remote beach

6. Vancouver Island 

Best for nature, surf beaches and boutique food ventures

Picture-postcard Victoria is the heart of Vancouver Island , beating with bohemian shops, wood-floored coffee bars and a past steeped in English tea culture since the 1840s.  British Columbia ’s capital city is full of charm, but it’s only the kick-off point to an island that has a bounty of natural wonders to explore.

Brooding Pacific Rim National Park Reserve includes the West Coast Trail, where the wind-bashed ocean meets a mist-shrouded wilderness, and surfers line up for Tofino’s waves. With so many outdoor adventures to try, this is one of the best places in Canada for nature lovers.

Detour: Wandering foodies will want to head to the Cowichan Valley, which is studded with welcoming small farms and boutique wineries.

Find out how to see Canada by train.

7. Whistler 

Best for skiing, mountain biking or summer paddle-boarding

This 2010 Winter Olympics venue is one of the world’s largest, best-equipped and most popular ski resorts, and it’s only a 90-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. Featuring over 200 marked runs winding down two towering mountains – Whistler and Blackcomb – this alpine village is paradise for skiers of all levels.

Skiing may be Whistler ’s raison d’être, but summer visitors with their downhill mountain bikes and stand-up paddle-boards outnumber their ski-season equivalents, making the resort a year-round hot spot for locals and visitors alike. Adding more diversity, Whistler has recently developed a thriving arts and culture scene, with highlights like the Audain Art Museum and Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre taking the stage as equally appealing attractions to the famed slopes.

8. Old Québec City

Best place to visit in Canada for romantics

Québec’s capital is more than 400 years old, and its stone walls, spired cathedrals and jazz-filled cafes suffuse it with atmosphere, romance, melancholy, eccentricity and intrigue on par with any European city. 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.

The city is also home to Québec’s scenic highway, Rte 132. Circling the Gaspé Peninsula , this road winds past the sea and the mountains, as well as charming towns. More than 700,000 people drive it each summer. Of course, it has yet to approach the romantic popularity of Canada’s “honeymoon capital,” Niagara Falls, a region that draws more than 14 million annual visitors. But head for La Gaspésie instead, young lovers. Because if you’re on your honeymoon, you don’t need 14 million other people hanging around.

People dancing and enjoying an outdoor concert at Place des Arts in Montreal.

9. Montréal

Best for music lovers 

As Canada’s second-largest city and the country’s cultural heart,  Montréal  is a marvel for music lovers. From June to August, Montréalers get high on sunshine in parks, beaches, mountaintop forests and endless festivals. The steamy outdoors is more alive than ever with arts-loving visitors filling the streets (and the cool of performance spaces), while rooftop bars turn into parties. The best jazz-influenced musicians in the world play to equally jazzed spectators at the annual  Montréal International Jazz Festival , where there are over 500 performances and shows to enjoy (and countless are free). Nature is also never far away in Montréal where a network of cycling paths, waterways and islands crisscross the city. No wonder Montréalers grow up jogging, paddling canals and skating in the fresh air.

Planning tip:  Check out  Tourisme Montréal  for the latest live music events, big and small, throughout the city. 

Two people on a frozen canal holding hands; one is on ice-skates, the other is in a wheelchair

10. Rideau Canal

Best for ice skating

Opened in 1832, this 200km-long (124 miles) waterway – consisting of canals, rivers and lakes – connects Ottawa and Kingston via 47 locks. The Rideau Canal is at its finest in wintry Ottawa, where a stretch of it becomes the Rideau Canal Skateway – the world's largest skating rink.

People swoosh by on the 7.8km (4.8 miles) of groomed ice, pausing for hot chocolate and scrumptious slabs of fried dough called beavertails (a quintessentially Canadian treat). February’s Winterlude festival kicks it up a notch when townsfolk build massive ice sculptures.

Local tip: Once the canal thaws, it becomes a boater’s paradise, meaning you can appreciate it whatever time of year you visit.

11. The Prairies

Best for big-sky road trips

Solitude reigns in Canada’s middle ground. Driving through the flatlands of Manitoba and Saskatchewan turns up uninterrupted fields of golden wheat that stretch to the horizon, eventually melting into the sunshine. When the wind blows, the wheat sways like waves on the ocean, punctuated by the occasional grain elevator rising up like a tall ship.

Big skies mean big storms that drop like an anvil, visible on the skyline for miles. Far-flung towns include arty Winnipeg , boozy Moose Jaw and Mountie-filled Regina, interspersed with Ukrainian and Scandinavian villages.

Two zipliners head down a wire towards a vast cascading waterfall

12. Niagara Falls

Best for an iconic travel experience

Niagara Falls may be relatively short (it doesn’t even crack the top 500 worldwide for height), but when those great muscular bands of water arc over the precipice like liquid glass, roaring into the void below – and you sail toward it in a mist-shrouded boat – the falls never fail to impress.

While you’re there, extend your stay and head beyond the falls on a two-wheel biking adventure along the Greater Niagara Circle Route, or take a go at the Wildplay Zipline to the Falls , a pulse-pounding rush of a ride that offers unparalleled views of the falls below as you zoom through the sky.

Read on for the best experiences to be had in Canada.

13. Bay of Fundy

Best place to spot whales

It has lighthouses, boats and trawlers, fishing villages and other maritime scenery, yet Fundy is not your average Canadian bay. That’s because its unique geography results in the world’s most extreme tides, capable of reaching 16m (56ft) – about the height of a five-story building.

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

Canadian Polar Bear walking in the colorful arctic tundra of the Hudson Bay near Churchill, Manitoba in summer.

14. Churchill

Best for polar bear encounters

The first polar bear you see up close will take your breath away, and there’s no better place for an encounter than Churchill , Manitoba, which happens to be right on the bears’ migration path. From late September to early November, tundra vehicles head out in search of the razor-clawed beasts, sometimes getting you close enough to lock eyes with the beautiful bears. Summer lets you kayak or stand-up paddleboard with beluga whales.

15. Drumheller

Best for dinosaur enthusiasts

Dinosaur lovers get weak-kneed in dust-blown Drumheller , where paleontological civic pride runs high thanks to the Royal Tyrrell Museum , home to one of the planet's pre-eminent fossil collections. The world’s largest “dinosaur” is here, too – a giant fiberglass T-rex that visitors can climb and peer out of (through its mouth). Beyond the dino-hoopla, the area offers classic Badlands scenery and eerie, mushroom-like rock columns called hoodoos.

Planning tip: Follow the scenic driving loops; these take you past all the good stuff.

This article was first published July 2021 and updated April 2024

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Feb 20, 2024 • 6 min read

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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.

Waterfowl Lake in Banff National Park

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.

Horseshoe Falls at Niagara Falls

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

Lake Louise and the Victoria Glacier

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.

Bow Lake in Banff National Park

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

Toronto skyline with the CN Tower

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

Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City

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

Whistler Mountain

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

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

View of St. John's from Signal Hill

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

Rue St. Paul in Old Montreal

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

Polar Bears of Churchill, Manitoba

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.

Eden Grove near Port Renfrew

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.

Tofino, BC

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

Bay of Fundy

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

Victoria's Inner Harbour

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

Gros Morne National Park

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.

Vancouver's Stanley Park

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

Calgary Stampede

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

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg

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

View of Okanagan Lake in the Okanagan Valley

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 .

Aerial view of Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

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.

Entrance to the Royal Tyrrel Museum

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.

Paddlewheeler near Dawson City

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.

Rideau Canal in Ottawa on a beautiful summer day

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

Centennial Ridges Hiking Trail

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.

Virginia Falls in Nahanni National Park Reserve

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 .

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The 5 Best Cities in Canada in 2022

The best cities in Canada, according to Travel + Leisure readers, combine small-town hospitality with the culture of major urban centers and a healthy dose of nature.

top canadian tourist cities

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite cities in Canada .

Canada's cities often appear on many "most livable lists," and for good reason: they're walkable, full of cultural attractions, and close to some of the country's most inspiring landscapes. The qualities that attract residents — or would-be residents — make the best cities in Canada just as appealing to travelers.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, Travel + Leisure asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated cities on their sights and landmarks, culture, cuisine, friendliness, shopping, and overall value.

Victoria, in the province of British Columbia, appears on the list this year in the No. 3 spot. Readers remarked how the city felt similar to the United Kingdom, thanks to its famous Butchart Gardens and historic Parliament buildings. "What a great city!" remarked one voter. "It's one of those places you pass through for a day and hope to go back for a week."

Returning favorite Banff, Alberta , which came in at No. 4, was praised for its outdoor beauty. "The mountain scenery is gorgeous," said one reader. While the destination is popular for heart-pumping sports like whitewater rafting, another reader appreciated that the town offered options like shopping and dining for those who may not be as adventurous.

Halifax, Nova Scotia, on the Atlantic coast, claimed the No. 5 spot. Known for its incredible whale-watching on the Bay of Fundy, as well as excellent seafood, it retains a small-town feel that readers found appealing. Still, perennial favorite (and WBA Hall of Famer) Quebec City continued to dominate. Read on to learn why it remains at the top of the list of the best cities in Canada.

1. Quebec City, Quebec

To many readers, visiting this city — now in its seventh year at No. 1 — feels like being in Europe, with its churches, cobblestoned streets, and many languages (including French, of course) being spoken. "Quebec City is the jewel of Canada," declared one reader. "It is tucked away and extremely romantic," said another, who called it one of their "favorite cities on the planet." It also has some well-loved hotels, like the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, which appeared at No. 10 on this year's list of the 10 Best City Hotels in Canada, and Auberge Saint-Antoine, which claimed the top spot of all city hotels in the country.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score 87.04

2. Montreal, Quebec

Score: 84.88

3. Victoria, British Columbia

Score: 84.73

4. Banff, Alberta

Score: 83.58

5. Halifax, Nova Scotia

Score: 82.98

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12 Incredible Places to Visit in Canada

Come equipped with a coffee from tim hortons, because there’s so much to explore..

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Banff National Park, with forested mountainside and snowy peaks in background

Banff National Park encompasses more than 2,500 square miles of land.

Photo by Michelle Heimerman

Known for everything from polar bears to poutine, Canada is a destination that can’t possibly be covered in one trip. Not that you’d want to try, anyways—it’s the second-largest country in the world in terms of land area, so exploring each of its 10 provinces and 3 territories is no easy task.

If you’re looking for some destinations to kick off your journey in the Great White North, here are 12 places to visit in Canada that showcase the sheer diversity of the country. There’s plenty for the outdoor adventurist and city explorer—and everyone in between.

1. Banff National Park, Alberta

  • Come for: an experience that captures the best of Canada’s nature
  • Stay at: Fairmont Banff Springs

“Banff National Park changes with the seasons and is a natural playground all year round,” AFAR contributor Juliette Recompsat writes in her guide for first-timer’s at this Canadian Rockies destination . In summer, people flock here for alpine flower blooms and glacier-fed lakes. Winter, while much quieter, offers its own set of experiences showcasing the park’s beauty: Try a guided ice walk in Johnston Canyon or snow tubing at Mount Norquay and Lake Louise ski resorts, for starters.

While travelers could easily spend a week in Banff, don’t miss the chance to visit neighboring Jasper National Park , the country’s largest at 4,200 square miles, which is brimming with iconic outdoor sights like Spirit Island, one of the most-photographed spots in Canada.

Snow covered mountains during the daytime.

Whistler was the setting for a number of downhill events during the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics.

Photo by Lance Anderson/Unsplash

2. Whistler, British Columbia

  • Come for: a ski experience in a league of its own
  • Stay at: Four Seasons Whistler

Located in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Whistler is home to the largest ski resort in North America. Every winter, Epic Pass holders and casual skiers alike descend the slopes of the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. While the more than 8,000-acre Whistler Blackcomb Resort is one of the country’s best ski resorts —with options ranging from incredibly difficult to magic-carpet easy—a love of winter sports isn’t necessary to enjoy the town.

Head to Whistler Village to enjoy what several AFAR contributors consider to be the “ laid-back, beer-fueled, and decidedly unfussy ” après-ski experience that is characteristically Canadian. Here, it’s definitely possible to enjoy a diversity of activities that don’t require skis or snowboards : Learn about First Nations culture at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre , take a break at the Scandinave Spa Whistler , or even try an escape room at Escape! Whistler .

On Prince Edward Island, exterior of Lobster Barn  with a few people

While on Prince Edward Island, head to Lobster Barn for what may be the best lobster roll of your life.

Photo by Brendan George Ko

3. Prince Edward Island

  • Come for: slow living and sparkling harbors
  • Stay at: Sydney Boutique Inn & Suites

This island is one of AFAR’s best places to travel in 2023 , in part because of its gorgeous, pastoral scenery—this was the setting of the beloved 1908 novel Anne of Green Gables , after all. Canada’s smallest province debuted its 435-mile Island Walk trail in 2022, allowing cyclists and walkers to circumnavigate the entire island.

Along the way, travelers can explore the preserved houses of Charlottetown or try some of the island’s famed oysters and lobster at Victoria-by-the-Sea. AFAR contributor Michael Kaminer suggests stopping at the small town of Kensington, where travelers can tour a historic railway station and then treat themselves to Mars bars and bacon sundaes at Frosty Treat Dairy Bar afterwards.

People sitting on top of a wave sculpture on a wooded boardwalk.

Halifax’s wave sculpture was designed by artist Donna Hiebert.

Photo by Billie Cohen

4. Halifax, Nova Scotia

  • Come for: a maritime city in touch with its whimsical side
  • Stay at: The Muir Hotel

Known for its maritime history, this city of 430,000 has been transforming over the past quarter century to a more artistic and inviting place. For AFAR contributor Darcy Rhyno, the city’s revitalization is best represented by the so-called Drunken Lampposts, a trio of playfully bent and twisted streetlamps on the waterfront that were installed as temporary public artworks and have since gone permanent.

While the port city’s role in recovering the Titanic survivors can be explored in the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic , Halifax also offers plenty of other activities for travelers . Go on the Good Cheer Trail to explore some of its breweries and cideries, visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration , and spend time on the waterfront for shopping and an array of public art displays that include a wave sculpture.

Tides may come and go, but Fundy National Park’s beautiful views are a mainstay.

Tides may come and go, but Fundy National Park’s beautiful views are a mainstay.

Photo by Vadim.Petrov/Shutterstock

5. Fundy National Park, New Brunswick

  • Come for: natural thrills via high tides
  • Stay at: Beach Street Inn

Butting against the border of Maine, New Brunswick consists of nearly 1,400 miles of coastline . One jaw-dropping coastline travelers can visit is the one within Fundy National Park , home to the highest tides in the world. (They can reach around 50 feet here.) One of the most thrilling ways to experience its natural phenomenon is to go tidal bore rafting . This activity takes participants down a river toward the incoming ocean, making for a very bumpy ride. But there’s plenty more adventuring to do here , including whale-watching and admiring the views of the 10-mile Fundy Trail Parkway .

Blue and red building in the daytime on an empty street

Try to visit Niagara-on-the-Lake from May to October, when it’s warmer outside.

Photo by Dalma Dioszegi/Unsplash

6. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

  • Come for: a calm alternative to Niagara Falls
  • Stay at: 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa

Niagara Falls is a common destination for international travelers and bachelorette parties alike. For a vacation spot a little less busy, AFAR contributor Heather Greenwood Davis suggests driving 30 minutes north to Niagara-on-the-Lake , a 19th-century village that she calls “a more mature experience to the gaming hot spots and neon nightlife of the ever-popular honeymoon capital.”

Here, plenty of wineries and boutiques compete for spots on the itinerary, but one can’t-miss event is the Shaw Festival , which draws theater enthusiasts from around the world with its celebrated productions—they run the gamut from George Bernard Shaw classics to musicals, like this season’s Gypsy and Brigadoon .

Building with green dome among trees.

The city’s many churches—as well as its abbeys, monasteries, and seminaries—are testament to the long influence of the Church in Quebec and Montreal.

Photo by Andre Jodoin

7. Montreal, Quebec

  • Come for: a European-esque escape
  • Stay at: Fairmont Le Queen Elizabeth

Tap into Canada’s French colonial history and bilingual present in this culture-filled city , which fuses a laid-back Old World European lifestyle with forward-thinking Canadian art and design. Here, you can stroll down Old Montreal’s Rue Saint-Paul , which was constructed along the Saint-Charles River in 1861 , or see an intimate show at the Théâtre Corona .

No matter when you visit, you’re sure to find something on the city’s jam-packed events calendar, which includes the Montreal Jazz Festival and the Just for Laughs comedy festival in the summer and Igloofest and Luminothérapie in the winter.

Aboriginal canoe boat nestled on a grass bank with the pacific ocean and islands in the background on a cloudy day.

The archipelago of Haida Gwaii can be reached by boat from Vancouver.

Photo by Linda Szeto/Shutterstock

8. Haida Gwaii, British Columbia

  • Come for: an Indigenous perspective on nature and art
  • Stay at: Haida House

About 50 miles from the southern tip of Alaska, this archipelago off the coast of British Columbia is the ancestral homeland and current territory of the Haida people. Upon its shores, AFAR editor Tim Chester describes a landscape where “the understory thrives and dampness reigns, shades of spongy green and yellow undulate, branch stumps sport mossy boxing gloves, and plant life drapes everywhere.”

Equally as impressive are the massive poles erected on these islands, which past and current generations of Haida have fashioned out of cedar. For those who have the chance to take the Haida Pledge and tour the archipelago, the Haida Heritage Centre is a fine starting place to learn about Haida specialties such as woodcarving.

Canada's CN Tower

An 1,815-foot-high vantage point awaits visitors to the CN Tower’s observation deck, whereas those with sea legs may prefer a cruise around the harbor.

Photo courtesy of Canadian Tourism Commission

9. Toronto, Ontario

  • Come for: a taste of Canadian culture in all of its diversity
  • Stay at: 1 Hotel Toronto

It’s easy to justify a visit to Toronto with plenty of showstopping sights like the CN Tower and St. Lawrence Market. As Canada’s largest city, it is also incredibly diverse—more than 140 languages are spoken here.

Time in Toronto reveals that it’s a city organized as a cluster of neighborhoods, where one street may be a center of the Jamaican diaspora , while another may be home to the city’s Little Portugal. No matter where travelers go, there’s plenty to be found in its underrated spaces , whether it be a walk through its Graffiti Alley or Allan Gardens Conservatory. With so much diversity on offer, dedicating a weekend to eating through the city’s dishes—whether in a hole-in-the-wall or Michelin-starred restaurant —is a no-brainer.

City skyscrapers in the daytime against a lake

Vancouver is known for its laid-back and outdoorsy lifestyle.

Photo by Mike Benna/Unsplash

10. Vancouver, British Columbia

  • Come for: a cinematic city experience
  • Stay at: Skwachàys Lodge

Many people have seen Vancouver as the backdrop of movies like Deadpool and Godzilla , but this Canadian city is filled with outdoor adventures, cultural excursions, and culinary pursuits worth exploring off screen. Walking down the streets of Gastown and dining in Chinatown will give a good overview for weekend visitors . Those wanting to go a bit deeper should consider a jaunt to the Mount Pleasant neighborhood , a Vancouverite haven two miles from downtown.

Nature lovers will enjoy 1,000-acre Stanley Park, one of Vancouver’s most popular attractions. It features historic and contemporary First Nations totem poles throughout the park. (AFAR contributor Bianca Bujan recommends learning about them with Indigenous-owned Talaysay Tours. )

Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada at Sunset

Ottawa, Ontario has a population of just over one million and is home to Parliament Hill.

Photo by f11photo/Shutterstock

11. Ottawa, Ontario

  • Come for: stately landmarks and ice skating on the canal
  • Stay at: Fairmont Château Laurier

“When you visit Canada’s capital, you get two cities for the price of one,” AFAR contributor Laura Byrne Paquet writes in her weekend getaway guide to Ottawa . The commercial hub—its name comes from the Algonquin word meaning “to trade”—sits on one side of the Ottawa River, but it’s just a 15-minute drive north to the Quebec city of Gatineau, which offers an introduction to Canada’s French-speaking side.

Landmarks like Parliament Hill and the National Gallery of Canada are some of the draws in the capital, as is the Rideau Canal, which connects the Ottawa River and Lake Ontario and was the main reason the city developed in the first place. During the wintertime, the Rideau turns into the world’s largest ice skating rink, making it a big attraction during the city’s annual Winterlude festival . For those who would rather visit during warmer months, the capital is also home to plenty of Canada Day festivities when July 1 rolls around.

Vineyards by a lake with a mountain in the background

Kelowna is located in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley.

Photo by Kolby Milton/Unsplash

12. Kelowna, British Columbia

  • Come for: a destination where fun and accessibility come hand-in-hand
  • Stay at: Hyatt Place Kelowna

This British Columbia city on Okanagan Lake doesn’t get as much press as its bigger urban peers, but that’s why it remains one of the country’s best-kept secrets . Thanks to more than 40 wineries in the area, wine is a big draw in these parts, and chef Rod Butters, of RauDZ Regional Table and micro bar, recommends visiting Kelowna Farmers’ Market so you can “learn who produces the finest heirloom tomatoes, peppers, and winter squash, who makes the best homemade preserves, and where to find the chewiest cheesy pretzels.”

Another plus for Kelowna is its accessibility. In AFAR contributor Lisa Kadane’s experience living in the city, the city’s focus on improving accessibility—whether it be in the form of wheelchair-friendly vans from companies like Uncorked Okanagan Wine Tours or accessible washrooms along the Okanagan Rail Trail —has made it easier for multi-gen families, seniors, and those with disabilities to enjoy the city.

Northern Lights

The Top 20 Destinations in Canada

top canadian tourist cities

Matteo Colombo / Getty Images

From mountains and lakes to vibrant cities and charming towns, Canada is as vast as it is multifaceted. Whether you’re in the market for days spent in nature exploring one of the country’s many beautiful national parks, heading towards the coast to feast on freshly-caught seafood and hit the beach, meander through small towns soaking up local life, or museum and gallery-hopping across one of the country’s many diverse and unique cities—there really is something for everyone in this friendly and inspiring country.

Ottawa, Ontario

Though a small city compared to others across the country, Canada’s capital city is worth a visit at any time of year. For those interested in art and culture, Ottawa is home to seven of nine national museums, including the National Gallery of Canada. Visitors will also want to spend some time along the Rideau Canal, Ontario’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can walk or cycle along the banks in the warmer months and in the winter the canal transforms into the world's longest skating rink. Rounding out the city’s offerings, Ottawa is home to a growing craft beer scene, many great restaurants, and numerous water-based activities on the Ottawa River.

Eastern Townships, Quebec

Danita Delimont / Getty Images

There are many reasons to visit the Eastern Townships in Quebec, one of which is the food and drink. The Eastern Townships offering orchards, wineries, maple syrup producers, cheesemakers, and microbreweries—making this an ideal destination for a foodie-focused weekend. But that’s not all. If you’re not hopping from winery to winery sipping on local wines, or picking your own fresh fruit at an orchard, there are many museums to visit, great shopping, excellent dining options throughout the region, and a wide array of outdoor activities to enjoy (from hiking to cross-country skiing). 

Banff, Alberta

TripSavvy / Anna Haines

No matter what time of year you visit, Banff does not disappoint. Active travelers will be especially enamored with the many opportunities for hiking and biking, canoeing, rafting and skiing. In addition to both winter and summer sports, the region is also home to the Banff Upper Hot Springs where you can relax in the hot mineral waters in the highest operating hot spring in Canada. And for exceptional views, don’t miss a gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain for 360-degree views of six mountain ranges. The town of Banff itself is also where you will find cozy bars and restaurants as well as galleries and shops to browse.

Great Slave Lake, Northwest Territories

Steve Schwarz / Getty Images

Great Slave Lake is one of the largest lakes in the world as well as North America’s deepest lake, with a maximum depth of more than 2,000 feet (615 meters). The lake is a haven for anglers looking to nab a big one and offers the chance to hook a trophy-sized fish. Great Slave is also an ideal spot for kayaking, canoeing, and even paddleboarding, as well as a great destination for bird-watching and wildlife viewing (including caribou and bison). And if you’re craving fresh fish, this is the perfect area to fill up on locally caught trout, pickerel, and whitefish. When you’re not getting active outdoors, spend time discovering the charms of colorful Yellowknife.

Quebec City, Quebec

If there was ever a place that has the power to almost immediately captivate visitors, it’s Quebec City. For starters, the city’s picturesque Old Town also happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering charming surprises down every winding cobblestone street. In addition, Quebec City is the only North American fortified city north of Mexico whose walls still exist. This is a city made for aimless wandering, getting lost among scenic architecture and friendly cafes. You’ll also find myriad museums, a scenic locale on the St. Lawrence River, and a calendar full of festivals and fun events year-round.

Niagara Region, Ontario

Roberto Machado Noa / Getty Images

The Niagara region is brimming with things to see and do for all ages and interest levels. For starters, there are the Niagara Falls themselves, which millions of people visit each year. Simply gaze out at the powerful flow of water, or opt for a closer look with a boat tour that gets you right into the mist. Niagara is also home to Clifton Hill where you’ll find attractions galore including the Niagara SkyWheel offering excellent views of the Horseshoe and American Falls, the Niagara River, Niagara Parks, and other landmarks. If you’ve got time, head into Niagara wine country for some tastings (including the area’s famous ice wine). 

Lake Louise, Alberta

Mitch Diamond / Getty Images

If it’s a picturesque destination you’re looking for—and one that also happens to boast a whole host of things to do—Lake Louise will likely fit the bill. Once you’re there, it will become immediately apparent why this is one of the most photographed locations in the world. Gaze out over emerald-hued water and rugged peaks and try not to snap countless photos. Once you’ve taken in the natural beauty, there are seemingly endless options for outdoor fun in any season. You can canoe on the lake or go for hikes in the summer, enjoy ice skating, skiing, and ice sculptures in the winter, and then feast at one of the area’s farm-to-table restaurants.

Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

Eduardo Fonseca Arraes / Getty Images

For many reasons, Cape Breton Island is one of the world’s top island destinations. Located on the northeastern tip of Nova Scotia on Canada’s East Coast, this idyllic destination is home to some of the best and freshest seafood you can find, from lobster and mussels to snow crab and oysters. Active travelers will have no trouble finding a hiking trail to suit their skill level or a scenic bike path to take advantage of. There are also opportunities to paddle, camp in untouched nature and you don’t want to miss a visit to Cabot Trail . This 185-mile-long (298-kilometer) winding road takes you past ocean vistas, vast forests, and charming villages.

Toronto, Ontario

TripSavvy / Brakethrough Media

One of the best ways to discover Toronto is by way of its eclectic collection of unique neighborhoods, each with its own set of charms and attractions. Whether you’re shopping for vintage goods in Kensington Market , museum-hopping or shopping in the downtown core, stocking up on foodie finds at St. Lawrence Market , or enjoying the buzzing energy of the waterfront, this is a city with something for everyone. Toronto really comes alive in the summer, yet also offers many interesting things to see and do year-round. There are numerous museums and art galleries to visit, leafy parks to explore, dining options to suit every taste and budget, and attractions for almost every interest and budget.

Churchill, Manitoba

David E Myers / Getty Images

Known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World, Churchill Manitoba is not just a spot to visit for polar bear viewing (best done in November), but also an excellent destination for spotting beluga whales (June to September) and for catching a glimpse of the epic Northern Lights. The northern Manitoba community is known as one of the best places in the world for seeing the aurora borealis (February and March). In addition, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure in the form of rock and ice climbing, kayaking, hiking, fishing, and more.

Fundy National Park, New Brunswick

AlbertoLoyo / Getty Images

If experiencing the world’s highest tides is on your bucket list, you might want to add Fundy National Park to your upcoming travel plans. Twice a day, up to 3,937 feet (12 meters) of water or more rush in and out, roughly equivalent to the height of a four-floor building making this spot a unique chance to explore the seafloor at low tide. There are also more than 62 miles (100 kilometers) of hiking and biking trails that run through the Acadian forest, leading to waterfalls (of which there are more than 20), lakes, and river valleys. Fundy National Park is also a Dark Sky Preserve with some of the best starry night skies in the region.

Tofino, British Columbia

Ben Girardi / Aurora Photos / Getty Images

Tofino is a small coastal village at the western edge of Vancouver Island that charms all who visit. Located on the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation at the heart of the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region, Tofino is a nature lover's paradise. Hike through an old-growth rainforest or along one of the area’s many scenic trails. If you prefer to be on the water, there are plenty of chances to canoe and kayak. Not to mention, Tofino is known as Canada’s surf capital, with 21.7 miles (35 kilometers) of beaches making it ideal for surfers of all skill levels. Long Beach, located in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, is 9.9 miles (16 kilometers) in length and perfect for anyone who wants to spend time strolling a scenic stretch of sand (you may even spot a whale or two, if you’re lucky).

Charlottetown, P.E.I.

Pgiam / Getty Images

If you’re looking for a Canadian destination that packs an exciting punch, but one that also provides the laid back charm of a smaller town, Charlottetown fits the bill. Friendly locals are always willing to recommend something to see and do or simply bend your ear about what their city offers. If you find yourself walking the city’s downtown, you’ll find many Victorian-era houses and buildings, adding to the enchanting atmosphere and inspiring many a photo. The harbor area and picturesque waterfront boardwalk also make for a pleasant place to spend some time, and no matter what you’re in the mood for, Charlottetown is home to a range of accommodations, beautiful beaches, numerous festivals and events, local breweries to try, and fresh seafood galore.

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Dougall_Photography / Getty Images

Saskatchewan's largest city is also known as the "Paris of the Prairies" for its eight bridges spanning the South Saskatchewan River, which winds through the downtown area. You can enjoy the river via canoe or paddleboard or on a river cruise (a nice way to get to know the city). There are more than 200 parks here so spending quality time outdoors won’t be hard. Saskatoon is also a burgeoning culinary hub, with young and innovative chefs taking full advantage of the bounty the area offers in exciting ways. Sip your way through a brewery or distillery tour or stop by a local market to browse seasonal goods.

Montreal, Quebec

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre 

If you’re looking for a Canadian destination with an incredible food scene and buzzing nightlife, myriad museums and art galleries, leafy parks, and Instagram-worthy architecture—Montreal might just be the place you’ve been searching for. Foodies will want to make a beeline for Marché Jean-Talon to browse everything from cheese and produce to freshly baked bread. Anyone looking for excitement will enjoy the many events and festivals that take place year-round. And you can’t leave without exploring the historic cobblestoned streets of Old Montreal and feeling as if you’ve been whisked away to Europe.

Vancouver, British Columbia

TripSavvy / Leopoldine Bauer 

Vancouver is one of those places that tends to get under people’s skin—in the best way possible. They visit and then dream of going back (or even of moving there). How can you not fall in love when you’re surrounded by mountains, ocean, and rainforests? Outdoor pursuits are on offer year-round, from hiking to snowboarding. The city is also home to Stanley Park, one of the biggest urban parks in North America. Vancouver is home to excellent shopping, a diverse food scene, and great nightlife. The city also gives you easy access to Whistler, the Canadian Rockies, Victoria, and Vancouver Island.

Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario

LeoPatrizi / Getty Images

Ontario's oldest and second-largest park is a paradise for nature lovers that attracts more than 500,000 visitors each year, and for good reason. The park offers a vast expanse of pine forests, numerous lakes, trails, and the chance to camp, hike, fish, and paddle. Drive-in campsites are available for those who wish to enjoy the park’s many trails and its wildlife without too much effort. Or you can explore the interior of Algonquin Park by canoe or on foot and spend some time in the backcountry where you’ll feel far away from city life. The park is also a great spot for moose viewing (they tend to hang out along Highway 60), as well as birdwatching.

Whistler, British Columbia

Noel Hendrickson / Getty Images

Located just two hours north of Vancouver, Whistler is an all-season destination for everything from skiing and snowboarding in winter, to hiking, swimming, and mountain biking in warmer months. When it comes to winter (and snow sports), Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort offers the most skiable terrain of any resort in North America. To go between the two, you’ve got the Peak 2 Peak Gondola which gets you from Whistler to Blackcomb in just 11 minutes. When you’re not swooshing down the slopes, Whistler Village is the pedestrian-only neighborhood at the base of the mountains filled with bars, restaurants, shops, and cafes.

Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland

This impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site covers 697 miles (1,805 square kilometers) of western Newfoundland and is the second-largest national park in Atlantic Canada. Here you will find more than 62 miles (100 kilometers) of trails with hikes for every skill level. Any aspiring geologists might be interested in the fact it was here that geologists proved the theory of plate tectonics. Regardless of how you spend your time—be it camping by the sea, exploring the epic scenery via boat tour, strolling a windswept sandy beach, photographing towering cliffs, or checking out a local fishing village—Gros Morne National Park is truly a unique destination. 

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Daryl Benson / Getty Images

Okanagan Valley stretches across 112 miles (180 kilometers) and is home to orchards and numerous wineries and made up of a slew of small towns and cities well worth stopping in. Even if you just visit to hop from one winery to the next (there are over 70 wineries operating in the Okanagan Valley), stopping at markets and fruit stands along the way—you won’t be disappointed. In addition, this area is home to more than 60 provincial parks to explore as well as numerous hiking and mountain biking opportunities. If you love fresh-picked fruit, the Okanagan Valley is bursting with options (there are even tree fruit tours). Or spend your time by Okanagan Lake, known for its more than 30 beaches covering the region.

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explorers away

12 Best Canadian Cities to Visit

Canada is the second largest country in the world; with so much space comes a wide range of diverse places to see and explore, and countless Canadian cities to visit. Here you will find big cities, coastal gems, snow-capped mountains, historical landmarks, natural wonders, and more, with something for every traveler!

It is the perfect country to visit to see and discover a diverse selection of cities, all with their own unique charm. With so many Canadian cities to visit, it can be hard to pick which to see and which you’re better off skipping.

Here are 12 of the best cities to visit in Canada to add to your bucket list itinerary. Discover the best Canadian cities to visit for the ultimate Canadian experience!

cities in canada

Best Canadian Cities to Visit

1. banff, alberta.

Banff is a stunning resort town in Alberta famous for its jagged mountains and bright blue water lakes. As one of the world’s most photogenic mountain destinations , it is easily one of the best Canadian cities to visit. In Banff , you can enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, ice skating, and more.

While in the summer, you can hike, swim, canoe, and more!

best cities in canada

2. Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa is Canada’s capital city and the country’s political center. The ornate parliament buildings attract people from around the world, but the charming Byward Market and surrounding sights and attractions are what make visitors fall in love with the city.

Ottawa is one of the best cities to visit in Canada for the perfect mix of a big city and a small town feel.

best canadian cities to visit

3. Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

Heading to the territories of Canada is not something everyone is up for, but those who make the adventure never regret it. Yellowknife is one of the best cities to visit in Canada to learn about and experience Canada’s rich and essential indigenous history and culture.

The Northwest Territories have some of the most stunning natural beauty, with mountain ranges and frozen lakes. You can even see the Northern Lights in Yellowknife !

Heading here requires a little more work since tourism isn’t as prevalent as in other parts of the country, but it is a truly exceptional city that is unlike any other.

montreal canada

4. Montréal, Quebec

Montréal is a beautiful and charming city in the Canadian province of Quebec. It is a french speaking city, but don’t worry – most people speak English. Montréal is often referred to as the cultural capital of Canada , with tons of shows, galleries, and festivals in Montreal to keep any traveler (or local!) busy.

Here you can see and experience the unique Québécois side of Canada that is super different from other cities. Explore Montreal and see the cobblestone streets, old buildings, and vibrant people.

Complete a trip to Quebec by visiting the quaint villages in the Eastern Townships – they’re filled with charm and easily some of the most beautiful spots in the province!

vancouver canada

5. Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is one of Canada’s most ethically diverse cities, with one of the most beautiful settings. Nestled within the stunning Rocky Mountains, Vancouver’s skyscraper city is surrounded by snowcapped mountains, giving it a unique look and feel.

This is one of the best cities to visit in Canada not only because it’s one of the most beautiful cities in Canada but also for its thriving arts and culture environment.

Plus, the stunning islands in the area make for an excellent excursion. You don’t need much to pack for Vancouver Island , as the proximity to the city means you’ll be near plenty of amenities.

quebec city canada

6. Quebec City, Quebec

Traveling to Quebec City feels like you’ve left Canada and entered Europe! The narrow cobblestone streets and stone architecture are unlike any other city in the country, so Quebec City is one of the best cities to visit in Canada for a unique getaway. The inspiration for plenty of quotes about Canada , this charming city is well worth a visit!

victoria canada

7. Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria is the capital city of British Columbia and is a peaceful yet exciting city to visit during your Canada adventures. It is full of heritage architecture, hidden gems, and many attractions. Victoria is also a great place to visit for outdoor adventures!

It is just a 4-hour drive from the famous Tofino, British Columbia, a popular spot for surfers.

toronto canada

8. Toronto, Ontario

When most people think of Canada, the first Canadian city that comes to mind is Toronto. This famous and vibrant city is a must-visit in Canada if you love the hustle and bustle, art, and culture and want to see if Toronto lives up to the hype of Canada’s most famous metropolis.

From skyscrapers to waterfronts to parks and beyond, Toronto has plenty to do and see, making it the ideal place to visit for travelers of all kinds.

Plus, within a close distance, you’ll have plenty of lovely small towns to visit along the water, which make for particularly nice day trips in the summer. Consider visiting the St. Lawrence River, quaint towns along Lake Ontario, or even towns along Lake Huron, like Bayfield, Ontario .

Itching to see Niagara Falls? With the best views of the falls from the Canadian side, it’s an excellent destination even if you don’t plan on crossing the border. There are several easy ways to get from Toronto to Niagara Falls , making it an easy day trip whether you have your own transportation or not.

charlottetown canada

9. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown is the capital of Canada’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island. This coastal city is the perfect place to experience Canada’s unique East Coast is known for its fishing villages, warm hospitality, natural beauty, and culture.

Spend some time exploring this small city as a gateway to the rest of the Prince Edward Islands to experience one of the most beautiful and quaint Canadian cities.

calgary canada

10. Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is one of the best places to visit in Canada for so many reasons. It is conveniently located close to the Rocky Mountains, so making a quick trip to some of Canada’s most magnetic natural wonders is a breeze, with Calgary as your gateway.

It is also very unique in its Western Canadian culture, which has resulted in the nickname “Cowtown.” Heading here for the famous Calgary Stampede is a must to experience the true excitement of this city.

halifax canada

11. Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax is a beautiful coastal city where you can find plenty of unique cultural experiences, fantastic beaches, art, and more. It is also home to one of Canada’s most famous landmarks, the iconic Peggy’s Cove! This lighthouse is one of the most photographed in the world and welcomes visitors year-round, eager to see it themselves.

Don’t consider visiting Nova Scotia without heading to Cape Breton Island in the province’s rugged northeast. You’ll find great hiking trails, ocean views, and plenty to see and do.

saskatoon canada

12. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Venturing to Saskatoon to see and experience the flatlands of Canada will show you a completely different side of the country. In Saskatoon, you can enjoy the city’s vibrant downtown, while just a few miles away, you can drive into the countryside to see the endless fields that make up the middle of Canada.

Cities in Canada

If you are planning a trip to Canada and want to see and experience the best of the country, make sure to explore some of these best Canadian cities to visit. From bustling capital to remote towns surrounded by Canada’s stunning natural beauty, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for here, no matter your budget.

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Samantha Karen

The Planet D: Adventure Travel Blog

41 Beautiful Places to Visit in Canada

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 19, 2024

iconic places to visit in canada

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

places to visit in canada | 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

places to visit in canada | bow lake

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

Glass Floor Colombia Icefield 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

places to see in canada | 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

things to see in canada | jasper

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

places to visit in jasper | 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

wales hotel

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

beautiful places in canada video

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 Mountain in British Colombia Canada

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

what to see in canada | tofino

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

best places to visit in Canada | 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

victoria british columbia places to visit in canada

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

Best Luxury Hotel in Vancouver Fairmont Pacific Rim

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

Churchill Manitoba in Canada

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

what to do in canada | polar bears

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

places to visit in canada | human rights museum

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

places to visit in canada | 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

where to visit in canada | 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

visit canada | 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

visit canada | 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

canadian places to visit | 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

canadian places | bay of fundy

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

where to go in canada | 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

St. Martins Caves in New Brunswick Canada

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

places in canada | 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

iconic things to do in canada

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

where to visit in canda | 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

what to do in canada | lake superior

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

places to visit canada | ottawa

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

must visit places in Canada | 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

places to visit in canada kingston ontario

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

Confederation Bridge in P.E.I Canada

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 P.E.I. Canada

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

Chateau Frontenac from Old Quebec City in Canada

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

places to visit in canada | wamdake

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

places to visit in canada | 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

mont tremblant | canada places to visit

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 places to visit | 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 Yukon Canada

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

what to do in canada | ivavik 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

places to visit in canada | mackenzie river 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

canada adventures torngats national park

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

best canada adventures

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

places to visit in Canada | 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?

iconoic places to visit in canada

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.
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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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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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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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27 Top Tourist Attractions in Canada

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From coast to coast, Canada packs in a potpourri of adventure. The globe’s second-biggest country is a wild mix of epic landscapes, modern cities, country roots and indigenous heritage.


Whether it’s the windswept islands off the coast of Nova Scotia or the towering, glacial peaks of the Rockies, there’s no end to the Great White North’s breathtaking beauty.


In spring, the sprawling meadows bloom anew with kaleidoscopic wildflowers. By summer the rock-flour rich alpine lakes sparkling fluorescent blue. In the fall, the foothills become awash with reds, oranges, and yellows. Come winter, the cities and wilderness alike become wonderlands.


Few countries can compete with Canada’s breadth of nature. But many of the best tourist attractions in Canada can be found in its cities . They boast world-class festivals, a touch of European elegance, all the while encapsulating the country’s vision as a multi-cultural society.

27. Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park

In good ol’ Ontario, Algonquin Provincial Park proves that there’s more to the province than meets the eye. The park is an enchanting mix of land and water. The maple-rich hills hide dozens of hiking trails while the miles of streams feed Algonquin’s 1,500 lakes.


Whether it’s on foot, bike or horseback, there’s no bad way to explore Algonquin National Park. As one of the most popular things to do in Canada, canoeing is especially a popular option here. The pristine wilderness has craggy ridges with brilliant views, while in the fall, it becomes a mix of gold and crimson.


It’s the water, however, that has given the park the bulk of its fame. 1,200 miles of lake and portages, with the addition of some backcountry camping, put this park on a pedestal.

26. Haida Gwaii

Haida Gwaii

Along BC’s northern coast, Haida Gwaii is an archipelago of 150 islands rich with indigenous history. The remote archipelago has a storied connection to the Haida people and, as it remains largely untouched, each island is a splendid assortment of wildlife and flora.


To dive into the culture of the Haidi people, visit the Haida Heritage Center. You can explore the living culture within the Carving House and the Haida Gwaii Museum. Complement this by sampling some of the local cuisine, rich in seafood throughout your stay.


Beyond the human aspect, Haida Gwaii is home to sea-batter, unspoiled landscapes that include the Gwaii Haanas National Park and Naikoon Provinicial Park.

25. Parliament Hill, Ottawa

Parliament Hill

The heart of Canada, Parliament Hill, may not have been on your traveling bingo card. But arguably Ottawa ’s most iconic landmark, the Hill is well worth the visit thanks to its beguiling Gothic architecture and delightful grounds.


Whether you’re Canadian or not, there’s something special about the walk up Parliament Hill. Here, the Senate, House of Commons and the striking Peace Tower hold sway over the surrounding landscape. In May you’ll even stumble on the Ottawa Tulip Festival.


Much of the area is open to explore. But you can go further by signing up for a free guided tour.

24. Elk Island National Park

Elk Island National Park

In Alberta, the Elk Island National Park is an eye-catching refuge but not just for the wildlife that calls it home. The park is a great escape from the nearby city of Edmonton and is a place where a sense of calmness reverberates throughout.


The fun begins from the moment you enter. Plains and wood bison are found throughout the park, so always keep your eyes peeled and cameras ready.


Taking you beyond the park’s rounds are 11 hiking trails ranging from 30-minute jaunts to 5-hour treks. They take you through the aspen and spruce forests, while in spring and early summer, vast meadows are awash with wildflowers.

23. Wine Tour in Okanagan Valley

Okanagan Valley

In British Columbia, the Okanagan Valley features one of Canada’s premier wine-growing regions. Award-winning vintages dot the valley. Vineyards sprawl into the foothills and the aromas of sage and lavender float through the air.


During the summer months, Okanagan Valley is a popular destination for locals and travelers alike. Along the valley, you’ll find an assortment of vibrant farmers’ markets and festivals. Or, you can ride along the Kettle Valley Rail Trail or take the boat to the lake.


But no time would be complete without a wine tour. This provides the best opportunity to sample some of the valley’s 100+ wineries without having to take the wheel.

22. Hôtel De Glace in Québec

Hôtel De Glace in Québec

Most of us love the summer. But, for a potentially controversial take, there’s nothing quite like a winter wonderland. For the handful of days we can withstand the cold, we need to make the most of it. You can do just that at Hôtel De Glace in Québec.


Just 20 minutes from downtown, Hôtel De Glace is an ice hotel that runs from January to March. The unimaginable architecture requires 2,300 blocks of ice and 15,000 tons of snow. They combine to create one of Canada’s most famous attractions that is well worth a visit.


By day, experience tubing, skating and snow rafting at Villages Vacances Valcartier. As night falls, sip on cocktails at the ice bar before crashing inside your own ice palace where temps hover at 5-degrees.

21. Great Bear Rainforest

Great Bear Rainforest

Large swaths of wild land are becoming few and far between. However, you can explore the largest tract of temperate rainforest still in existence in British Columbia. Out on the coast, the Great Bear Rainforest is an amalgamation of wildlife. But it’s most celebrated for its trio of bear species.


Such little change has befallen this region that experiencing this rainforest is a trip back in time. The untouched wilds boast red cedar trees centuries old, while the remaining old growth forests hold the keys to spotting a rare white coated bear.


The Kermode is a sub-species of black bear with less than 400 in the wild. They’re found almost exclusively here. Beyond the land, lakes spread into the distance where orca and whales make their presence felt.

20. Montreal Jazz Festival

Montreal Jazz Festival

Montreal’s storied connection with jazz began in the Roaring 20s. Under the microscope of prohibition, the St. Antoine District flourished. The show goes on today, with the city’s reputation leading to the Montreal Jazz Festival.


The eclectic yearly lineup of some of the world’s best jazz musicians. They play across six outdoor stages in downtown Montreal. You can add another 10 indoor clubs and venues to the rhythmic menu. 
However, the music is a part of what makes the festival the biggest on earth. Add on an abundance of art, Montreal ’s culinary reputation, and you have a festival that hits all the senses.

19. Ride the Train through the Canadian Rockies

Canadian Rockies Train

There are a few things in life that epitomize the idea of the journey and not the destination. Great train journeys on endless locomotives are one of those. On the Rocky Mountaineer or the Canadian, you can venture into the spectacular Canadian Rockies in comfort.


The Rockies aren’t just a domain of the fearless mountaineer. The train journey provides a firsthand experience of life among the world’s most stunning summits. The train tracks guide you by glacially carved peaks and down into lush valleys, with your window posing as the perfect postcard the entire way. 
Although expensive, there are benefits to taking the Rocky Mountaineer over the Canadian. These include a focus on daytime journeys, opulent luxury and an indulging list of epic routes.

18. Surfing in Tofino

Surfing in Tofino

Canada isn’t just mountains, lakes and prairies that dance between sun-soaked summers and whitewashed winters. Out on the western Vancouver Island, in Tofino, the northern Pacific waves touch down.

Between Cox Bay, Long Beach, and Chesterman Beach, you’ll have a trio of great surfing spots to choose from. Sandy beaches provide the welcome mat as you dig your board into the surface and gaze upon the breaks. You’ll see folks lathered up in full-bodied wetsuits, especially in the colder months. When surfers who can’t get enough, continue to chase the perfect wave.


These breaks aren’t just the domain of the experts, either. Year-round surf shops will help beginners get kitted up, while summertime surf programs can help you ride your first wave.

17. Watch the Northern Lights in Whitehorse

Whitehorse Northern Lights

It’s as if the world has turned upside down. A mix of swirling rivers coated with blues and greens swirl across the world’s ceiling. The Northern Lights are spellbinding, a natural dance that is all at once subtle and vivid.


One of the best places to see the Northern Lights is in Whitehorse, Yukon. From late August to early April, the long, dark nights make this town a hot bed for those seeking to witness this incredible phenomenon. Just a short jaunt out of downtown Whitehorse, the dark night sky becomes the perfect canvass.


While the sight is unpredictable, they tend to flourish after 10pm until 3am. So, rug up, fill a thermos of hot cocoa and cross your fingers.

16. Green Gables

Green Gables

Life is worth living as long as there’s a laugh in it – so said Anne of Green Gables. The mystical and magical landscape that brought this film to life isn’t just for those characters. It’s there on Prince Edward Island, waiting for you.


Within Prince Edward Island National Park, the Green Gables Heritage Place is utterly charming – vibe that’s especially poignant for those that have read the book or seen the film.


You can tour the house where Anne was mistakenly adopted into. The captivating surrounding grounds and hiking trails personify the aura of the story. This is further brought to life by period actors.

15. Capilano Suspension Bridge

Capilano Suspension Bridge

When in Vancouver , make the quick journey to the popular Capilano Suspension Bridge. Open all year long, the suspension bridge stretches 137 meters across the lush rainforest canopy. At heights of over 65 meters, it’s not for the faint of heart.


The bouncing and swaying of the bridge underfoot adds to the adventure. But such is its structural integrity, the bridge can hold the weight of a load Boeing 747!


The views from the bridge are marvelous as you gaze down at the Capilano River while admiring the beautiful Douglas-fir trees. From the main bridge, you can then wander over 7 smaller suspension bridges closer to the forest floor.

14. Rideau Canal

Rideau Canal

From Ottawa to Kingston, the Rideau Canal meanders through eastern Canada across 202 kilometers. Throughout there are lakes, rivers, cuts, and 25 lock stations adding up to one of the 1800s most remarkable engineering feats.


The best way to explore the canal, of course, is on a boat. Whether it’s a day tour or a houseboat trip, you’ll see the breadth of landscapes found along the canal.


Come winter, the canal freezes over, creating the largest ice-skating rink on earth. As warming huts, music and hot cocoa make their way to the canal’s edge, you can skate under the cool winter sky.

13. Dawson City

Dawson City

In the Yukon, Dawson City is a vibrant throwback to the heady days of the gold rush. Back then, old tunes spilled out of saloons onto wooden sidewalks while the horses waited along the dirt roads. A similar spirit of fun remains today, even with the rush long gone.

Today, Dawson City’s distinct false-front buildings remain intact. The deep red facade of the Downtown Hotel is an ever-present reminder of what was. But the nostalgia remains and can be seen in the gambling hall, filled with cancan dancers.


By day, travelers try their luck and search for gold on Bonanza Creek. Out on the Yukon River, paddle-wheelers go up and down, entertaining guests and ringing in the sunset with a dash of champagne.

12. Cabot Trail

Cabot Trail

There are some road trip doozies to be found across Canada. But, one of our favorites can be found away from the Rockies and in one of the country’s underrate regions. Spanning 297km along the coast of Cape Breton, the Cabot Trail is a visceral experience.


While the world moves westward, this far-eastern road feels remote. But the sweeping road provides access to exceptional vistas and adventures both on and off the land.


Carving its way along the coast, the road stands on the precipice of tumbling cliffs. Out your window lies the deep blue Atlantic Ocean. To stretch your legs, stop at the Cape Breton Highlands National Park for 26 unique hiking trails.

11. Skiing in Whistler

Whistler

World class skiing and snowboarding aren’t exactly in short supply here in wintry Canada. However, at Whistler Blackcomb, you can experience an iconic mountain with some of the best powder on planet earth.


Whether you’re a beginner or expert, there is seemingly endless terrain to discover. There are over 200 trails and 1500+ meters of vertical drop. Add one an average of 450 inches of annual snowfall, and you’ll find yourself in a skier’s heaven.


For beginner skiers and snowboarders, we recommend starting with a lesson or two. But when you’re ready to explore, the terrain around Whistler Creekside will provide the best experience.

10. CN Tower, Toronto

CN Tower

It’s a weird yet unforgettable experience to sit in the bleachers of the Rogers Center in Toronto and see the CN Tower rise above you. On a clear summer day, it’s an unmissable distraction from the ballgame below. For me, it was a compass that I could travel by and its beautiful yet imposing presence soon became a symbol of home.


At night, the tower lights up in varied colors, often setting a mood for the low-hanging clouds. But throughout the day, folks from across the world venture up to the towers tip and bask in the enormity of the views.

You can step onto a glass floor and with your heart in your mouth, you dare take a look at the city below. To take it a step further, there is the CN Tower Edgewalk. It takes you outside where you strap in a hover over the tower’s edge.

9. Victoria’s Inner Harbour

Victoria’s Inner Harbour

On Vancouver Island, Victoria’s Inner Harbour is a sight for sore eyes. The classic harbor is filled with fishing boats, ferries, and recreational craft. Along the waterfront are sightly buildings, a flourishing marina, and the aroma of high-end seafood. It combines into an atmosphere that quickly sweeps you off your feet.


Wide, open pedestrianized streets make it as easy as it is fun to get about. You’ll wander by cozy cafes where you’ll grab your morning coffee. Soon, you’ll pass the Parliament buildings and maybe even venture into the Royal British Columbia Museum.


Souvenir shops dance between the waterfront restaurants before the splash of a whale’s fluke splashes down out in the harbor.

8. Calgary Stampede

Calgary Stampede

Yeehaw! It’s Calgary Stampede time. Across ten days in July, the stampede is one of Canada’s great cultural spectacle. There’s something nostalgic, alluring and romantic about the cowboy way of life. Although you may not be ready to don the spurs just yet, the festival is a captivating way to celebrate Alberta’s western roots.


For over 100 years, the Calgary Stampede has taken place. To fuel yourself up for the experience, you must start with the classic (often free) pancake breakfast. From there, embrace the vibes in Calgary and take in one of the world’s biggest rodeos.


As the sun falls, the music rises at the Bell Grandstand Show will a dash of fireworks. Finish up with a little boot-scootin’-boogie at Nashville North.

7. Gros Morne National Park

Gros Morne National Park

On the west coast of Newfoundland Island, Gros Morne National Park was borne from the collision of continents. This created towering peaks that have since been carved brilliantly by glaciers. 
These glaciers now lead down to rich, mossy valleys where rivers surge surrounded by summits.

Eventually, they reach spectacular fjords, arguably the best spot in Canada, to enjoy this phenomenon. Boats and kayaks venture out into the open bays, while hiking and biking trails dance between the valleys and peaks.


Come wintertime, you can embrace the suck and see a different side to Gros Morne. Snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing allow you to see this incredible place awash with white.

6. Hopewell Rocks, Bay of Fundy

Hopewell Rocks

Along the border of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick lies the revered Hopewell Rocks. They stand surrounded by the waters of the Bay of Fundy as monolithic rock stacks forgotten by the mainland.

Wind and water have used their artistic powers of erosion to sculpt these delightful rock towers, none more famous than the Flower Pots. Along a half-mile hike from the interpretive center, visitors will receive their first picture-perfect views. Here, you’ll see 20 sea stacks stationed along the 2km shoreline.


Because of the unique shape of the bay, the difference in water level between high tide and low tide can be as much as 16 meters (52 feet). At high tide, the rocks are surrounded by the flowing bay, making it perfect for a paddle adventure. But at low tide, one can venture down to the ocean floor by foot for a closeup view.

5. Athabasca Falls

Athabasca Falls

Among the jaw dropping beauty of Jasper National Park, one particular spot stands out. Athabasca Falls, at 25 meters tall, surges down into a narrow gorge with breathtaking force.

Although not an especially towering waterfall, the vast volume of water has made it a stunning Class 5 waterfall. It’s fed by ancient glaciers whose slow melt meanders down from the Columbia Icefield, slowly changing the world around it until a sudden, high-octane plummet.

It’s easy to access Athabasca Falls along the Icefield Parkway. A short, simple path diverges from the parking lot, bringing you to a number of viewpoints. They’re not just of the water either, with the imposing summit of Mount Kerkeslin standing in the distance.

4. Polar Bears of Churchill

Polar Bears of Churchill

On the eastern edge of Hudson Bay, a body of water that stretches into the Arctic Ocean, polar bears roam. Churchill is a remote village in one of Canada’s most harsh locations, yet every year folks pack their bags and make the journey.


That is, of course, to see the world’s largest apex predator. A title that’s slowly being diluted thanks to polar bears struggling in the rising temperatures. However, of the estimated 25,000 left in the wild, over half are found in the Canadian Arctic.

After a plane or train journey, you’ll arrive in the small town of 1,000. Off-road trips take you just out of town, close but not too close to these majestic, powerful creatures.

3. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls

As touristic as it is thrilling, Niagara Falls is one of those destinations that we must all see. Around 90 minutes from Toronto by car, with trains also an option, the famous falls are an easy day trip from Canada’s biggest city.


It’s hard to encapsulate the sheer forceful beauty of Niagara Falls. Over 3,100 tons of water flow over the edge of the escarpment every single second. The cloud of misty white that flows above provides the site with a sense of the divine.


Accessible walking trails meander along the edge, bringing you closer and closer until you can feel the rumble and the mist. Boats take you to the fall’s base for an unforgettable shower. While at night, Niagara Falls’ tourist sign is set ablaze by streets of neon.

2. Vieux-Québec

Vieux-Québec

In Canada’s second oldest city lies streets that contrast with the wider North American vibe. In Vieux-Québec, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the scent of Europe. The UNESCO World Heritage Old Quebec City boasts cobbled streets worn by the passage of time, each guiding you by some of Canada’s best 18th and 19th century architecture.


It’s a place to wander and get lost. With no agenda, you can whimsically explore and then discover. From the Le Château Frontenac Citadel and the Plains of Abraham to Place d’Armes, and the Parque Historique de l’Artillerie, there’s no shortage of highlights.

But it’s the small things, the chic cafes and aromas wafting from the windows of local restaurants that take you away from Canada to another continent.

1. Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake

Whether it’s from the banks or high up in the mountains, the views of Canada’s turquoise lakes never grow old. They form memories that hold sway in the minds of many, and for us, that body of water is Moraine Lake.

In Banff National Park, the water is a sparkling gemstone surrounded by glacial peaks. Moraine Lake’s intense blue colors cast a spell on those that visit, while creating a dream destination for photographers.


With the famed Ten Peaks forming vast triangles around the lake, you’ll immediately want to explore. Trails can take you around the water’s edge to splendid viewpoints. But for the best experience, one must jump in a kayak and see the turquoise spread around you as you feel infinitely small among the jagged summits.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Canada

Map of Tourist Attractions in Canada

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Reader interactions.

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October 17, 2018 at 12:19 am

I love it in Canada and it’s such a great place to live

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March 22, 2018 at 3:59 am

All of these images are looking so fabulous and cool. I also enjoyed myself while I was visiting this kind of places.

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November 9, 2017 at 12:03 pm

I love those places so much. when I went to canada last year i went to visit one of those places but it was BAY OF FUNDY. Omg Canada is such a really nice country and i love it so much

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May 4, 2016 at 7:44 pm

Looking at the picture of Banff National Park makes me want to jump up right now and go visit. I never knew there was so much beauty right here in Canada.

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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

Niagara Falls With Rainbow in Canada, one of the best places to visit in Canada

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

best places to visit in Canada in winter

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

Quebec City is one of the romantic and the best places to visit in Canada

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

colored houses in St. John's Canada

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

Image Source

A wonderful view of Tofino, one of the best places to visit in Canada

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

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

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

Location: Vancouver Island, Canada

Suggested Read: Niagara Falls in Canada

6. Churchill: Seek Tons Of Adventure

Polar bear capital of the world canada

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

Montreal is counted among the Best places to visit in canada

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

Suggested Read: 10 Budget-Friendly Hostels In Canada 

8. Banff National Park: A Popular Destination

With a spectacular view of lake surrounded with lush greenery, Banff National Park is a must visit landscape in Canada.

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

famous parks to visit in vancouver canada

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

Suggested Read: Canada Travel Tips

10. Butchart Gardens: A Picture-Perfect Land

Butchart Gardens are among the best places to visit in Canada

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

Okanagan Valley is among the best places to visit in Canada known for  its fine wineries

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

Suggested Read: Festivals of Canada

12. Gros Morne National Park: Explore The Geological Diversity

Come closer to nature while enjoying the mesmerizing sight of Gros Morne National Park

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

Algonquin Provincial Park is one of the best places to visit in Canada

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

Suggested Read: Temples in Canada

14. Yoho National Park: A Must Visit Destination

A splendid view of Yoho National Park

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

CN tower is among the famous and the best places to visit in Canada

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

Suggested Read: 11 Best Canadian Rivers 

16. Lake Louise: Perfect For Adventure Sports

Lake Louise Banff Canada

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

A breathtaking view of Bay of Fundy which is one of the best places to visit in Canada

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

Suggested Read: 6 Surreal Lakes In Calgary 

18. The Yukon: A Magical Delight

Feel like witnessing some magical world at the Yukon in Canada

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

Garibaldi National Park is among the best places to visit in Canada

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

Suggested Read: 9 Best Beaches Near Toronto 

20. Pyramid Lake: A Picturesque Water Resource

A gorgeous view of Pyramid Lake in Canada

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

A marvellous view of Cheakamus Lake

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

Suggested Read: 10 Essential Vancouver Travel Tips

22. Maligne Lake: Paradise For Photographers

A stunning view of Maligne Lake which is among the best places to visit in Canada

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

A majestic view of Hornby Island which is one of the best places to visit in Canada

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

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

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

Location : British Columbia

Suggested Read: 11 Resorts In British Columbia 

24. Cape Breton: An Unexplored Land

An incredible view of Cape Breton

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

A mesmerising view of Forillon National Park which is one of the best places to visit in Canada

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

Suggested Read: 8 Fun Things To Do In Winter 

26. Moraine Lake: Witness The Clear Reflection Of Mountains

A spectacular view of Moraine Lake

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

A majestic view of Perce Rock which is one of the amazing and the best places to visit in Canada

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

Suggested Read: Christmas In Canada

28. Mingan Monoliths: Gape At The Oldest Monoliths

A majestic view of Mingan 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

A mesmerising view of Jasper National Park which is counted among the best places to visit in Canada

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

A stunning view of Peggy’s Cove capturing the attention of visitors

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

A breathtaking view of Mount Logan

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

Things To Do: Trekking Location: Yukon, Canada

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

32. Osoyoos: Taste Wine & Get The Best Views

A gorgeous view of Osoyoos, one of the amazing and the best places to visit in Canada

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

A stunning view of Columbia Icefield Skywalk, one of the best places to visit in Canada

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

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

Suggested Read: Go Glacier Kayaking In Canada 

34. The Grotto: Haven For Adventure Fanatics

A majestic view of The Grotto, one of the best places to visit in Canada

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

A stunning view of Montmorency Falls which is among the best places to visit in Canada

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

An enchanting view of Capilano Suspension Bridge, one of the best places to visit in Canada

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

Waterton Lakes National Park is counted among the best places to visit in Canada

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

A scenic view of Prince Edward Island which is among the best places to visit in Canada

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

Kluane National Park and Reserve is one of the best places to visit in Canada

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

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

Suggested Read : 7 Places To Visit Near Abbotsford 

40. Mont Tremblant: For Skiing Activities

Parc National Du Mont Tremblant which is among the best places to visit in Canada

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

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

Further Read: Top Beaches In Canada 

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Canada

What is the most beautiful part of Canada?

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

Where should I go in Canada for the first time?

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

Where should I spend my vacation in Canada?

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

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

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

What is the best time to visit Canada?

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

What is Canada known for?

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

What is famous in Canada to buy?

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

What are 3 things Canada is famous for?

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

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The 25 cities in Canada to visit once in a lifetime!

You are currently viewing The 25 cities in Canada to visit once in a lifetime!

  • Post published: 15 January 2024

Vast and still sparsely populated, Canada is a great country for those who love a mix of large metropolises and wild territories. If you choose to visit, make a list of the cities you want to discover. This will enable you to create a suitable itinerary.

For my part, here are the 25 Canadian cities I recommend you visit first.

The Province: Ontario

The best things to do in Toronto :

  • The Royal Ontario Museum.
  • Ripley’s Aquarium.
  • A visit to the historic Distillery District.
  • Discovering Toronto Island.
  • St. Lawrence market.
  • A walk in the High Park.
  • Kensington Market.
  • A visit to Casa Loma.

Weather by season :

  • Spring: Cool mornings, bright afternoons.
  • Summer: Pleasant warmth, clear skies.
  • Autumn: Cool, with often clear skies.
  • Winter: Cold, with frequent snowfalls.

Typical dish to eat: the peameal bacon sandwich, a back bacon sandwich rolled in pea flour.

Montréal

The Province: Quebec

The best things to do in Montreal :

  • Old Montreal, for its historic architecture and cobblestone streets.
  • Notre-Dame Basilica.
  • Mount Royat.
  • The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts.
  • The Montreal Biodome.
  • Jean Talon Market.
  • A visit to the Plateau Mont-Royal district.
  • The Olympic Park, the legacy of the 1976 Olympic Games.
  • The Mile End district.
  • The McCord Museum.
  • Spring: Rising temperatures, often clear skies.
  • Summer: Comfortable warmth, plenty of sunshine.
  • Autumn: Freshness, with brightly colored scenery.
  • Winter: Intense cold, heavy snow.

Typical dish: poutine, French fries topped with cheese curds and brown gravy.

Vancouver

The Province: British Columbia

The best things to do in Vancouver :

  • Stanley Park.
  • Granville Island Market.
  • The seawall walk.
  • The classic Chinese garden of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen.
  • A visit to the Gastown district, with its steam clock.
  • Discover Capilano Suspension Bridge.
  • A visit to the Vancouver Art Gallery.
  • Relaxation on the beaches of Kitsilano.
  • Explore the Yaletown district for its stores and restaurants.
  • Spring: mild temperatures, bright weather.
  • Summer: Pleasant, with sunny, dry weather.
  • Autumn: Cool, with nature’s shimmering colors.
  • Winter: Mild, with frequent rainfall.

Typical dish to eat: West Coast salmon, often served grilled or smoked.

Quebec

The best things to do in Quebec City :

  • Old Quebec, for its European charm and fortifications.
  • The Château Frontenac, the city’s landmark.
  • The Plains of Abraham for lovely walking in summer and skiing in winter.
  • Quartier Petit Champlain, picturesque and lively.
  • A visit to the Musée de la civilisation.
  • Discover Montmorency Falls.
  • Walking on Dufferin Terrace.
  • Notre-Dame de Québec Cathedral Basilica.
  • The Quebec City Summer Festival for music and culture.
  • A cruise on the St. Lawrence River with a view of Quebec City.
  • Spring: Persistent coolness, bright skies.
  • Summer: pleasant temperatures, fine weather.
  • Autumn: Cool, with a landscape of flamboyant colors.
  • Winter: freezing cold, heavy snow.

Typical dish to eat: Tourtière, a traditional meat pie.

Ottawa

The best things to do in Ottawa :

  • The Parliament of Canada.
  • The Canadian Museum of History.
  • Walk along the Rideau Canal.
  • A visit to the National Gallery of Canada.
  • The ByWard Market.
  • A visit to the Canadian War Museum.
  • The Canadian Museum of Nature.
  • Walks in Gatineau Park.
  • The Rideau Canal Skateway in winter.
  • Spring: Gentle, with nature in full bloom.
  • Summer: Comfortable warmth, generally clear skies.
  • Autumn: Cool, with brightly hued leaves.
  • Winter: Intense cold, regular snow.

Typical dish to eat: BeaverTails, a sweet fried pastry.

Calgary

Province: Alberta

The best things to do in Calgary :

  • A visit to the Calgary Tower.
  • Heritage Park.
  • The Calgary Stampede, a major rodeo festival.
  • Discover the Glenbow Museum.
  • Visit Fish Creek Provincial Park.
  • The historic Inglewood district.
  • The walk on Prince’s Island.
  • Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre.
  • Excursions to the nearby Rocky Mountains.
  • Spring: Rising temperatures, variable weather.
  • Summer: pleasant heat, frequent sunshine.
  • Autumn: Fresh, with clear moments.
  • Winter: Cold, with snowfall and the chinook phenomenon.

Typical dish to eat: Alberta beef, renowned for its quality.

Edmonton

The best things to do in Edmonton :

  • The West Edmonton Mall, one of the world’s largest shopping centers.
  • Fort Edmonton Park.
  • The Art Gallery of Alberta.
  • A walk through the river valley.
  • TELUS World of Science.
  • The University of Alberta Botanical Garden.
  • The Edmonton Fringe Festival, one of the largest theater festivals in the world.
  • Discover the historic district of Old Strathcona.
  • Spring: Moderate temperatures, changeable weather.
  • Summer: Pleasantly warm, with plenty of sunshine.
  • Winter: Cold and snowy, typical of Canadian winters.

Typical dish to eat: Perogies, an Eastern European dish popular in the region.

The best things to do in Victoria :

  • A visit to Butchart Gardens.
  • The Parliament of British Columbia.
  • Discovering the Royal BC Museum.
  • A stroll through the city’s historic district.
  • A visit to Craigdarroch Castle.
  • Discover marine life on a whale-watching excursion.
  • Shopping and dining in Inner Harbour.
  • Visit Fisherman’s Wharf for its colorful floating houses.
  • Spring: Gentle, with bright days.
  • Summer: moderate temperatures, sunny climate.
  • Winter: Relatively mild, with occasional precipitation.

Typical dish to eat: Seafood from the Pacific coast, especially salmon.

Halifax

The Province: Nova Scotia

The best things to do in Halifax :

  • Visit the historic Halifax Citadel.
  • A stroll along the Halifax waterfront.
  • Discover the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
  • A visit to the Halifax Public Garden.
  • Discover the historic district of Peggy’s Cove.
  • Visit McNabs Island.
  • Participation in the Halifax Jazz Festival in the summer.
  • Taste the local cuisine in the many seafood restaurants.
  • Spring: Cool temperatures, variable weather.
  • Summer: Pleasant, with often sunny weather.
  • Autumn: Gentle, with beautiful autumn foliage.
  • Winter: Cold, with snowstorms possible.

Typical dish to eat: Nova Scotia lobster, often served as a lobster sandwich.

Winnipeg

The Province: Manitoba

The best things to do in Winnipeg :

  • A visit to the unique Canadian Museum for Human Rights.
  • Exploration of The Forks historic district.
  • Discovering the Manitoba Museum.
  • A visit to Assiniboine Park.
  • A stroll through St. Boniface’s French Quarter.
  • Visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Boniface.
  • Discover the art scene and galleries of the Exchange District.
  • Spring: Progressively milder, bright weather.
  • Summer: Warm, with plenty of sunshine.
  • Autumn: Cool, with bright autumn colors.
  • Winter: Very cold, with heavy snowfall.

St. John’s

The Province: Newfoundland and Labrador

The best things to do in St. John’s :

  • Visit Signal Hill National Historic Site.
  • A stroll through the colorful Jellybean Row district.
  • Discover Cape Spear Lighthouse, Canada’s most easterly point.
  • Exploration of The Rooms, a museum and cultural center.
  • An iceberg and whale-watching cruise.
  • A visit to the Basilica of St. John the Baptist.
  • A walk in Pippy Park.
  • Spring: Cool, often foggy.
  • Summer: Temperate, with sunny spells.
  • Autumn: Mild, with clear days.
  • Winter: Cold, with frequent snowstorms.

Typical dish to eat: Jiggs dinner, a traditional Newfoundland dish.

Charlottetown

The Province: Prince Edward Island

The best things to do in Charlottetown :

  • Visit Province House, the birthplace of Canadian Confederation.
  • Explore the historic district and its charming streets.
  • A visit to the Confederation Centre of the Arts.
  • The promenade along the Victoria Park waterfront.
  • The discovery of the home of Lucy Maud Montgomery, author of “Anne of Green Gables.”
  • Visit Prince Edward Island National Park.
  • Spring: mild temperatures, variable weather.
  • Summer: Pleasantly warm, with frequent sunshine.
  • Autumn: Fresh, with vibrantly colored foliage.
  • Winter: Cold, with snow, typical of Canadian winters.

Typical dish to eat: Prince Edward Island mussels, renowned for their quality.

The Province: Yukon

The best things to do in Whitehorse :

  • Observe the aurora borealis, particularly spectacular in this region.
  • Visit the SS Klondike, a former steamboat.
  • Discover the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre, dedicated to the region’s prehistory.
  • Hiking in Miles Canyon Territorial Park.
  • Visit the MacBride Museum of Yukon History.
  • Dog sledding, a typical experience of the Far North.
  • Fishing and canoeing on the Yukon River.
  • Spring: Persistent coolness, longer days.
  • Summer: moderate temperatures, bright nights.
  • Autumn: Cool, with frequent aurora borealis.
  • Winter: Very cold, but ideal for winter activities and auroras.

Typical dish to eat: Yukon salmon, often smoked or grilled.

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls

The best things to do in Niagara Falls :

  • Explore Niagara Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world.
  • A boat cruise to get as close as possible to the falls.
  • A visit to Queen Victoria Park.
  • The Journey Behind the Falls experience to feel the power of water.
  • Discovering the Butterfly Conservatory.
  • The Niagara Parkway.
  • Fun and games at Clifton Hill.
  • Spring: Gentle, with waterfalls in full flow.
  • Summer: Comfortable heat, busy tourist season.
  • Autumn: Fresh, colorful foliage.
  • Winter: Cold, partially frozen falls offer a unique spectacle.

Typical food: Fresh fruit and Ontario wine, especially ice wine.

Mississauga

The best things to do in Mississauga :

  • A visit to Port Credit, a charming fishing village.
  • Explore Square One Shopping Centre, one of Canada’s largest.
  • Stroll through Kariya Park, a peaceful Japanese garden.
  • Discovering the Living Arts Centr.
  • A walk along the Waterfront Trail.
  • A visit to the Art Gallery of Mississauga.
  • Outdoor activities at Jack Darling Memorial Park.
  • Spring: Rising temperatures, clear weather.
  • Summer: Warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Autumn: Cool, with a colorful landscape.
  • Winter: Cold, with snow, typical of Ontario’s climate.

Typical dish to eat: Multicultural dishes reflecting the diversity of the city.

Province: Saskatchewan

The best things to do in Regina :

  • Visit the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, to learn more about the province’s natural and cultural history.
  • Discover the Wascana Centre, a vast urban park around Lake Wascana.
  • Visit Saskatchewan’s Legislative Building and its gardens.
  • Exploring the MacKenzie Art Gallery.
  • Discover Cathedral Village, an artistic and bohemian district.
  • Walk in White Butte Trails Provincial Park.
  • A visit to the Regina Floral Conservatory.
  • Winter: Very cold, with regular snowfalls.

Typical dish to eat: Le pouding chômeur, a traditional French-Canadian dessert.

The best things to do in Hamilton :

  • Visit Webster and Tew Falls.
  • Explore the Art Gallery of Hamilton, Ontario’s third-largest public art gallery.
  • The walk in Hamilton Beach Park.
  • Discover Dundurn Castle, a 19th-century neoclassical manor house.
  • Hike the Bruce Trail, Canada’s longest hiking trail.
  • A visit to the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum.
  • Spring: Moderate temperatures, abundant flowering.
  • Summer: Warm, with mostly sunny weather.
  • Autumn: A fresh, autumn-colored landscape.

Typical food to eat: The region’s culinary delights, especially dishes made with maple syrup.

Gatineau

The best things to do in Gatineau :

  • A visit to the Canadian Museum of History.
  • Exploring Gatineau Park.
  • Discovering the Canadian Children’s Museum.
  • Visit the Maison du vélo for picturesque cycling routes.
  • A visit to Mosaïculture Gatineau, an exhibition of plant sculptures.
  • Hiking and cross-country skiing in Gatineau Park.
  • Discover the architectural heritage of Old Hull.
  • Spring: Freshness, with nature awakening.
  • Summer: pleasant temperatures, sunny skies.
  • Autumn: Cool, with brightly colored leaves.
  • Winter: Cold, with a thick blanket of snow.

Typical dish to eat: Poutine, a popular Quebec specialty.

Kamloops

The best things to do in Kamloops :

  • Visit the Kamloops Art Gallery.
  • Exploring the desert landscapes and hiking trails nearby.
  • Rafting on the Thompson River.
  • Discover local heritage at the Kamloops Museum and Archives.
  • A walk in Riverside Park.
  • Spring: Mild, clear weather.
  • Summer: Warm and dry, perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Autumn: Moderate temperatures, autumn-colored landscape.
  • Winter: Cool, with winter sports activities nearby.

A typical dish to eat: local fruit, such as cherries and peaches.

The best things to do in Lethbridge :

  • Visit Fort Whoop-Up, a historic trading post.
  • Exploring the Lethbridge Waterfalls Provincial Park.
  • A visit to the Galt Museum for regional history.
  • A stroll through the Nikka Yuko Japanese garden.
  • Hiking and birdwatching in the Helen Schuler nature reserve.
  • Visit Indian Battle Park for its history and green spaces.
  • Spring: Changeable climate, with periods of mild weather.
  • Winter: Cold, with the possibility of chinooks providing temporary respite.

Typical dish to eat: Grilled meats, especially Alberta beef.

Fredericton

The Province: New Brunswick

The best things to do in Fredericton :

  • Beaverbrook Art Gallery.
  • The Historic Garrison District.
  • Fredericton’s Waterfront Trails boardwalk.
  • Science East Science Centre.
  • Guided tours of the New Brunswick Legislative Building.
  • Odell Park, a peaceful green space in the city.
  • Discover culture and history at the New Brunswick Museum.
  • Spring: Moderate temperatures, nature on the alert.
  • Summer: Warm, ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Autumn: Cool, with spectacular autumn foliage.
  • Winter: Cold, with opportunities for winter sports.

Typical dish to eat: New Brunswick seafood, especially lobster.

The best things to do in St. John :

  • Saint John City Market, one of the oldest farmers’ markets in North America.
  • The reversible falls of the Saint-Jean River.
  • The New Brunswick Museum for local history and culture.
  • A walk in Irving Nature Park.
  • Discover the historic district and its Victorian buildings.
  • A visit to Fundy National Park and its impressive tides.
  • Stroll the lively streets of Uptown Saint John.
  • Exploring the sea caves at St. Martins.
  • Spring: Rising temperatures, changeable weather.
  • Summer: Temperate, perfect for exploring the coast.
  • Autumn: Cool, with colorful landscapes.
  • Winter: Cold, with regular snowfalls.

Typical dish to eat: Local seafood, especially scallops.

Saskatoon

The best things to do in Saskatoon :

  • Wanuskewin Heritage Park to discover First Nations culture.
  • Meewasin Valley Park for its trails and wildlife.
  • The Mendel Art Museum and its contemporary art collections.
  • The walk along the South Saskatchewan River.
  • The vibrant Broadway Avenue shopping and dining district.
  • The Western Development Museum for a journey into Saskatchewan’s past.
  • Participation in festivals and cultural events.
  • Outdoor activities such as canoeing and hiking.
  • Spring: Fresh, with longer days.
  • Autumn: pleasant temperatures, often clear skies.
  • Winter: Cold with snowfall, perfect for winter sports.

Signature dish: Bison steak, often accompanied by Saskatoon berries.

The best things to do in Banff :

  • Exploring Banff National Park.
  • Visit Lake Louise for its turquoise waters and mountain scenery.
  • Take the cable car up to the summit of Mount Sulphur.
  • Relax in the Banff Upper Hot Springs.
  • Skiing at Sunshine Village and Lake Louise.
  • Discover the park’s wildlife.
  • A visit to the Banff Centre for Art and Culture.
  • Spring: Snowmelt, cool weather.
  • Summer: Moderate temperatures, ideal for hiking.
  • Autumn: Fresh, autumn-colored scenery.
  • Winter: Cold, perfect for skiing and other winter sports.

Typical dish to eat: Bison, often served as a steak or burger.

Kelowna

The best things to do in Kelowna :

  • A visit to the vineyards of the Okanagan Valley and wine tasting.
  • Relax on the beaches of Lake Okanagan.
  • Water sports on the lake, such as kayaking and paddleboarding.
  • Hiking in Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park.
  • Outdoor activities such as golf and mountain biking.
  • Autumn: Pleasant temperatures, vineyards in harvest.

Typical dish to eat: Okanagan Valley fruit, especially cherries and peaches.

Denis

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top canadian tourist cities

14 Canadian Cities So Gorgeous, They Must Be Seen to Be Believed

F rom the thundering waters of Niagara Falls to the rugged peaks of the Canadian Rockies to arctic tundras, rugged coastlines, and desolate prairies. Blend these dramatic settings together with incredible architecture and history, and you’ll find yourself in the most beautiful cities in Canada.

In a country as vast and diverse as Canada, there are countless places to visit, each with its own unique attractions, including some stunning Canadian landmarks . It boasts beautiful landscapes, stunning lakes and magnificent wilderness areas. Not to mention a plethora of exciting recreational facilities, including some of the best ski resorts in the world.

Let’s face it, Canada is all-around extraordinary. So, let’s take a look at the most beautiful Canadian cities dotted throughout The Great White North.

14 Most Beautiful Cities in Canada

1. vancouver, british columbia.

Located in British Columbia, Vancouver is a strong contender for being the most beautiful Canadian city. You’ll discover mountain vistas in the north, the Pacific Ocean to the west, and Stanley Park downtown. The city’s sweeping panoramas are incredible and offer unlimited recreational opportunities.

The city is renowned for its art and culture scene, with various museums and galleries. These include the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Museum of Vancouver, and the Science World Vancouver.

The sky’s the limit for adventurers here. Try your hand at white-water rafting, zip-lining, or jet-boating. Enjoy mountain biking, hiking, canoeing, and more in the Pacific Spirit Park or cycle along the seawall downtown. Meander along the beaches in Kitsilano or head to Granville Island to shop for some special goodies.

I highly suggest taking a Vancouver city tour to see the best highlights – you won’t want to miss them.

2. Ottawa, Ontario

Located in Ontario, Ottawa is the vibrant and colorful capital that offers a treasure-trove of exciting attractions and fun activities and tours .

Take a peek into the world of the Canadian government on Parliament Hill. If you’re a history buff, the city has world-class museums and galleries where you can learn about Canadian history and culture. Some excellent stops not to be missed include the National Gallery, The War Museum , The Museum of History, and the Science and Technology Museum, to name a few.

This beautiful city in Canada also offers stunning trails, boating, and kayaking on the Ottawa River. If you’re feeling peckish, don’t miss the Byward Market area – it’s a short distance from Parliament Hill. Here you’ll find delicious foods, drinks, and a vibey atmosphere.

3. Quebec City, Quebec

Quebec City, the capital of the Canadian province of Quebec, boasts a distinctly European atmosphere. Located on towering cliffs overlooking the St. Lawrence Seaway, it’s the only capital in North America with its original city walls, the ancient Porte Saint-Louis.

The city’s Old Town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can easily be explored on foot. I suggest taking a walking tour through the Old Quebec City streets; be awed by architectural treasures and learn about this magical place’s history.

A must-see on your list is Parliament Hill and the 100-year-old Chateau Frontenac that dominates the cityscape. Other city highlights include the Jacques Cartier National Park, the National Museum of Beaux-Arts, Montmorency Falls, and the Sainte Anne-de-Beaupre Shrine.

4. Montreal, Quebec

Located in Quebec, Montreal is one of Canada’s largest city, famed for its architecture, superb cuisines, vibrant art scene, and exciting entertainment opportunities. The city boasts incredible structures, with skyscrapers rubbing shoulders with historical gems.

Another jewel to visit is the Basilique Notre Dame, the famous cathedral located at Place Jacques Cartier. Spend time inside admiring the stunning gold-adorned altar and stained glass.

Some other city highlights not to be missed include Old Montreal (Vieux Montreal) the futuristic Expo 67, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, and the modern Olympic Stadium. Head downtown to find an array of cultural venues in the Quartier.

If you’re an avid nature lover, hike Mont-Royal and get sweeping views of the entire city. And if you’re into stunning scenery, visit La Grand Roue de Montréal , Canada’s largest observation wheel located at Montreal Old Port. 

5. Toronto, Ontario

Toronto is Ontario’s capital and best described as the ‘cultural capital of Canada’. The energetic, vibrant city is located on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario and is home to an array of attractions and seemingly endless entertainment, shopping and dining opportunities.

However, most Torontonians would argue that what makes Toronto the best city is its diverse neighborhoods, from Little Italy to Chinatown and everything in between.

Walk the cobbled lanes amongst quaint boutiques and studios in the Distillery Historic District . If you’re a lover of the arts, head down to Rush Lane (better known as Graffiti Valley), to admire some incredible street art. The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is another exciting place to visit.

Toronto also boasts many museums, National Historic Sites, and famous landmarks, including the iconic CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Other popular places include Casa Loma, Toronto Island, and Nathan Phillips Square.

6. Calgary, Alberta

Calgary, Alberta, is considered Canada’s wild west. It’s home to the famous Calgary Stampede, a week-long festival featuring concerts, rodeos, and exhibitions galore. However, there’s much more to Calgary than just cowboy hats and horses.

Experience life back then and learn about the pioneer days at the Heritage Park Historical Village or wander along the Bow River at the Prince’s Island Park. If you’re keen on witnessing majestic views, enjoy a meal at the SKY 360 revolving restaurant atop the 191m Calgary Tower.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, there are many activities to revel in, including river rafting , biking, hiking, and more.

7. Halifax, Nova Scotia

One of the prettiest Canadian cities has to be Halifax, in Nova Scotia . The historic ocean port is the perfect place to walk around, explore and find fun things to do .

A good place to start would be at the Halifax Peninsula. A four-kilometer boardwalk along the waterfront. You can also learn a lot about the history of Pier 21 , the gateway for one million immigrants who first arrived on Canadian Soil. The city flaunts an array of renowned museums, including the Canadian Museum of Immigration and the Atlantic’s Maritime Museum. 

If you’re looking for a place to rest your feet, head to the scenic Halifax Public Gardens. A short distance from the gardens is the 19th-century Halifax Citadel, another fascinating National Historic Site.

There are plenty of adventure tours available around the city. I highly suggest catching a whale-watching tour or sailing to Peggy’s Cove. Or do a day trip to lovely Wolfville and explore its wineries and farmer’s market .

And don’t miss Atlantic Canada’s number one tourist attraction the Halifax Harbour Hopper and Halifax Farmers Market, the oldest farmers market in North America.

You might enjoy reading my article on things to do in Surrey BC.

8. St. John’s, Newfoundland

St. John’s boasts some of Canada’s most dramatic scenery and landscapes. This beautiful city is dotted with brightly coloured homes, art galleries, and the Newfoundland Museum.

As North America’s easternmost city, the metropolitan has played several important roles throughout history. While visiting this city, be sure to check out Signal Hill and The Rooms for a step back into the past.

Stroll along St. John’s Downtown area. It’s a great place to grab a snack or two, find some souvenirs, and window shop. While you’re here, explore the beautiful coast or embark on a puffin and whale watching tour .

9. Niagara Falls, Ontario

Niagara Falls, in Ontario,  isn’t just one of the most picture-perfect places in the country but in the world too. The spectacular waterfalls are, by far, the main attraction here. Hop on a helicopter ride, go on a cruise or take a deluxe day tour on foot to see these majestic cascades.

Apart from the falls, the city boasts various entertainment activities, like the indoor waterpark, the Guinness World Records Museum and mini-golf courses. Other popular family-friendly attractions include Old Fort Niagara and the Niagara SkyWheel.

If you don’t have kids in tow, try your luck at the Niagara Fallsview Casino or head off to sample some ice wine at the Inniskillin Winery. There’s plenty to do in this stunning city.

10. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

There’s something spectacular about Saskatoon – Saskatchewan’s largest city. Nestled along the Saskatchewan River, it’s sprinkled with beautiful leafy trees which look particularly picturesque in fall. The city becomes a mirage of orange, yellow and red hues.

Step back in time at the Wanuskewin Heritage Park, the Western Development Museum, and the Ukrainian Museum of Canada.

If you’re a nature lover, head to the Beaver Creek Conservation Area or put on your hiking shoes and get trekking (or snowshoeing in winter) on the Meewasin Valley Trail.

Throughout the city, you’ll find modern art galleries, theatres, live music and exhibitions. Each year, the metropolitan attracts over 80,000 music fans to the Saskatchewan Jazz Festival held in the gardens of the iconic Delta Bessborough Hotel.

11. Winnipeg, Manitoba

Located in Manitoba, Winnipeg boasts many indoor and outdoor activities coupled with architectural, cultural, historical, and gastronomic attractions.

While you’re here, one of the must-see attractions is the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, which houses some stunning modern architecture. The Canadian Royal Mint, Winnipeg Art Gallery, and the Manitoba Museum are equally fascinating. The St Boniface Cathedral is another one of Winnipeg’s must-see sites in the city.

12. Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

Lunenburg isn’t precisely a city – I think strictly speaking it is a town – but does it matter when it is this cute? Gorgeous Lunenburg, Nova Scotia is only 4 square km or 48 blocks and has 2,263 permanent residents. The Old Town of Lunenburg was named a UNESCO site in 1995. It is Instagram heaven, with colourful houses lining the streets, a picturesque harbor, great food, and super cute street signs.

There are loads of lovely things to do in Lunenburg, from exploring its harbor to eating at some of its fantastic restaurants to trying its amazing rum at Ironworks Distillery to visiting the cutest ever fishing village Blue Rocks – well, I wrote a whole post on things to do in Lunenburg so do check it out.

13. St Andrews, New Brunswick

Here I go again with another town rather than a city but New Brunswick needs to be covered in this post as it is such a beautiful region – there are so many fantastic things to do in New Brunswick and great boutique hotels . Lovely St Andrews, New Brunswick was founded in 1783 and is one of the best-preserved examples of colonial heritage in North America today.

The town is designated one of Canada’s National Historic Districts and is utterly charming. Plus, it has a fantastic location on the Bay of Fundy, which means it has some of the best whale watching in the world. Don’t miss Kingsbrae Gardens, driving the ocean’s floor nearby to Minister’s Island, eating ALOT of lobster, staying at the delightful Algonquin hotel and visiting the St Andrew’s Farmers Market.

14. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown is Prince Edward Island’s charming capital city and a front runner for the prettiest city in Canada. Its charming Victorian era streets and harbour can be explored on foot. Do you remember the novels of Anne of Green Gables? They were set in nearby Cavendish which is on the north shore of Prince Edward Island.

The conference which led to the unification of Canada was held in Charlottetown in 1864. The annual Charlottetown Festival runs all summer and features plays, art exhibitions, concerts and more.

A Footnote: Prettiest Cities in Canada

Canada is renowned for its scenic natural wonders, from towering mountain cliffs, majestic blue lakes fed by glaciers, lush forests and uninhabited prairies. Many cities are steeped in rich maritime history, sprinkled with historic buildings and filled with friendly locals. Canada boasts many of the world’s most scenic cities.

So what is the most beautiful city in Canada? I have no idea how to answer that question as there are so many beautiful options!

So, now that we’ve covered some incredible places, it’s time for you to get your walking boots on and your cameras out for a spectacular time in North American’s crown jewel.

This most beautiful cities in Canada post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

One of the key things to see in Ottawa Canada is the spider sculpture!

Top Tourist Attractions in Canada: 25 Must-Visit Places

Canada is a paradise of natural wonders, wildlife, and outdoor adventures where every turn is like a feast to the senses.

From the smoking Niagara waterfalls and breathtaking landscapes of Cape Breton to culturally rich European flairs of Old Montreal and Old Quebec.

Prepare to be spellbound by the breathtaking sceneries from the 25 top tourist attractions in Canada!

Key Takeaways

  • Some of the top tourist attractions in Canada include Niagara Falls, CN Tower, Old Quebec, Old Montreal, Okanagan Valley, etc.
  • Some of the Canadian places best to visit during summer are Banff National Park, Rocky Mountains, Vancouver Island, Hornby Island, Cape Breton, etc.
  • The best Canadian places to visit during winter are Churchill, Rideau Canal, and Hotel De Glacé.

Top Tourist Attractions in Canada

1. niagara falls.

image showing niagara falls

If you think all you can do in Niagara Falls is to sightsee and take pictures of the magical falls, you are mistaken! You can hop on many fun adventures in Niagara Falls more than you think.

There’s the Niagara City Cruise, Whirlpool Aero Car, Incline Railway, Niagara Helicopters, and the 360 Skylon Tower, all to get the best view of the falls.

If you’re seeking thrill and challenge, try the Journey Behind the Falls, the haunted house Nightmares Fear Factory, Niagara FreeFall, WildPlay zipline, and skydiving.

2. Banff National Park

Banff National Park is one of the top 10 tourist attractions in Canada, boasting its majestic mountains and lakes, perfect for mountaineering, hiking, and climbing.

You can engage in many activities, like paddling on the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, hiking Banff National Park Trails, mountain biking at Banff National Park, gondola trips, and swimming in hot springs.

3. The Rocky Mountains

If you want to feel like you’re at the peak of the Earth, the Rocky Mountains are where you should climb! This geological wonder is very iconic because of the extraordinary rock formations.

The mountain is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, where you can enjoy nature’s tranquillity. Try hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and soaking in the hot spring resorts.

4. Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is an island treat for all beach-goers as there are a lot of exciting activities to engage in, like sunbathing and swimming on beaches, kayaking in the Pacific Ocean, and whale watching.

Some of the notable landmarks on the island that are worth going to are the capital city of Victoria, Butchart Gardens, Pacific Rim National Park, Tofino, and Hot Springs Cove.

5. CN Tower

image showing cn tower

Did you know that before Burj Khalifa, Canada had CN Tower as the tallest structure in the world? And now, CN Tower is still one of the most prominent structures in Canada, symbolizing innovation and limitless potentiality.

To get the best 360-degree view of Toronto, avail of the Timed General Admission Tickets and access the main observation deck or Skypod.

If your guts are shouting for something more thrilling, try out their signature Edgewalk where you can walk hands-free around the t

6. Whistler

Whistler in British Columbia is one of the best places to visit in Canada during the summer and winter due to the number of activities available, like biking, hiking, skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and more.

In case you are visiting Whistler, take the opportunity to explore Whistler Blackcomb, the Whistler Village, the Lost Lake Park, and ride the peak 2-peak gondola from Whistler to Blackcomb.

7. Polar Bears of Churchill

With over 15,000 polar bears found in Churchill, it is the world’s polar bear capital! If you like these white fluffy animals, expert tour guides will teach you literally anything about them.

Not only do polar bears you can enjoy looking at, but you can also have a great view of the Aurora Borealis or the Northern Light dancing across the sky.

Moreover, If you want to see some Beluga Whales, you may opt for boat tours available to meet them up close.

8. Parliament Hill

The heartbeat of Canadian democracy, Parliament Hill resonates from the architecture and stunning vistas, and the best way to explore Parliament Hill is to take a guided tour.

There’s no other way to start your Ottawa Parliament Hill adventure to explore the Parliament buildings and areas like Center Block, Confederations Square, National Gallery of Canada, and more. 

9. Old Quebec

Walking around the UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Quebec is like walking around 400 hundred years ago with European charm—from cobblestone pavements to preserved colonial period buildings and fortifications like the Citadel.

You can explore landmarks like Chateau Frontenac, Fortifications of Quebec, Place Royale, and Citadelle of Quebec.

10. Stanley Park

image showing stanley park

A paradise at the heart of Vancouver City—Stanley Park has been a go-to for city dwellers because of its widely varied scenic and green views, from beautifully-made gardens, mountains, and majestic waters, to famous monuments and tourist landmarks that you can enjoy.

You can take on exciting guided tours around the urban park, ride the Stanley Park train, have a good day picnic, wander along the Seawall, and play some sports at their freedom parks.

I recommend visiting the Vancouver Aquarium and discovering over 60,000 aquatic animals from hundreds of top-notch exhibits available. A few meters away from the Aquarium is the Waterfall Cafe, where you can dine while taking in the subaquatic views of the Aquarium.

11. Old Montreal

Old Montreal is where you can get a taste of Europe! You’ll undoubtedly receive a London or Paris vibe from its architecture and curving cobblestone streets to its traditional restaurants, sidewalk cafes, galleries, and shops.

Some great places in Old Montreal to wander are the Old Port, where the Big Ben-look-alike Clock Tower and the giant Ferris wheel are located, and the Place d’Armes, where you can see the Notre Dame Basilica and the historical bank of Montreal.

Finally, never miss dining at one of the restaurants on the oldest street in Montreal, the Rue Saint-Paul!

12. Bay of Fundy

If you haven’t seen thundering waves reaching 16 meters up in the air, the Bay of Fundy is the place to go! The Bay of Fundy is like a small inlet in the Atlantic Ocean with incredible high tides, the biggest in the world.

More than the high tides, you can try numerous engaging activities, like watching the waves at Hopewell Cape , whale watching, exploring the sea caves, and admiring the waterfalls around the national park. 

13. Gros Morne National Park

Isn’t it awesome to see a freshwater fjord surrounded by sharp green cliffs and waterfalls? Like what they have in Norway, you’ll encounter that when you go to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gros Morne National Park.

This world-class national park lets you experience out-of-this-world scenery with its cruising activities at Western Brook Pond, trekking Gros Morne’s Mountain, and picnicking at the Lobster Cove Head lighthouse with a sight of the rocky beaches.

14. Rideau Canal

Once October begins and water bodies start to freeze, it’s time to wear your best ice skating attire and experience skating at the world’s most iconic and longest rink, the Rideau Canal!

Would you believe me if I told you that Rideau Canal skating is free 24/7? Indeed, many people are flocking to these rinks to practice or enjoy with friends or families.

More than the ice skating activity during winter, the canal provides many activities during other seasons, like cycling, canal cruise, kayaking, dragon racing, hiking, paddling, fishing, and so much more.

15. The Okanagan Valley

image showing the okanagan valley

The Okanagan Valley in British Columbia is one of the best places to visit in Canada for couples as they produce some of Canada’s award-winning wines! The most famous vineyard you must see, Naramata Bench, has almost 40 wineries you can sample, including the Merlot.

While the premier wines draw tourists into the valley, there is a lot more to appreciate in this place. These include hiking the Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park in Kelowna , cycling the 480-km Kettle Valley Rail Trail, swimming, and river-floating in the Okanagan Lake.

16. Hotel De Glace, Quebec

Hotel de Glace is probably one of the unique places to visit in Canada because it’s not just an ordinary hotel but made of ice and snow!

Your stay at the hotel includes various winter activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.

17. Athabasca Falls

Typically, waterfalls in Canada are tall in perspective, but it’s not the case for the majestic Athabasca Falls in Alberta. Standing at only 23 meters, the falls are one of the shortest but the most powerful due to the large volume of freshwater.

The Athabasca Falls is one of the best places to visit in Canada with family. You can do many family-friendly activities here, including walking and hiking while enjoying the fall’s scenic view and relaxing sound.

18. St John’s

St. John’s is home to many of Canada’s historical and natural wonders, and one thing the place has become famous for is the “Jellybean Row,” which are colourful row houses.

Some of the most notable locations in St. John’s that you should visit are the Signal Hill National Historic Site with a 360 panoramic view of the city and sea, Cape Spear Lighthouse for hiking and whale watching, the cute Quidi Vidi fishing village, and the Basilica of St.John the Baptist.

Tofino in Vancouver Islands is the best out-and-out surfing spot in Canada! Whether a beginner or a hustler, you’ll surely enjoy surfing here.

Aside from surfing, Tofino is also a prime destination for a couple more water activities like whale watching, kayaking, and sport fishing.

Not only can you engage with the ocean, but hiking trails are pretty popular in Tofino. Take on the most famous Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, with many hiking trails.

20. Algonquin Provincial Park

image showing the algonquin provincial park

Algonquin Provincial Park is another natural wonder of Canada in the heart of Ontario. It is famous for its 2000+ pristine lakes, 1000+ km of rivers, and rolling mountains.

As a true backpacker’s paradise, Algonquin provides you with many outdoor activities, like camping, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

21. Butchart Gardens

If you love to be hugged by nature, predominantly plants and flowers, I am sure you’ll love the sound of a 22-ha garden, right?

In British Columbia, the Butchart Gardens is a 100+-year-old heritage site of Canada with a whopping 26 greenhouses and 900 plant varieties, all arranged beautifully. Around 50 gardeners you can meet to ask questions and get advice.

At night, you can see these flowers bloom a lot brighter with their night illumination event, displaying a

The garden is open from 9 AM to 10 PM, tickets are commonly purchased online from $20-$40, and discounted rates apply to youth and children.

22. Cabot Trail

If you like the idea of cycling or riding with panoramic coastal views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Cape Breton beaches, then Cabot Trail is something you should consider!

As one of the best trails in Nova Scotia , there are numerous things you can do along these 300-km loops, such as whale watching at various stopping points, fishing, golfing, and so much more.

23. Green Gables

Have you heard of the classic children’s literature “Anne of Green Gables” by Lucy Montgomery? To tell you, the setting of the 20th-century novel is actually a real place in Cavendish, Prince Edward Island, and has become a world landmark!

Not only the green farm heritage house that will keep you in PEI but a lot more! There’s the beautiful Lover’s Lane and Haunted woods you can wander through, Montgomery Park to have a picnic, visit Anne of Green Gables Museum, dress up like Anne at Shop and Play at Gateway Village, and watch the “Anne of Green Gables: The Musical” at Charlottetown.

Don’t forget to get some books or gifts from the Anne of Green Gables Store or try Anne’s favourite raspberry cordial drink at Anne of Green Gables Chocolates!

24. Hornby Island

The “Little Hawaii” of British Columbia, Hornby Island, is one of the best places to visit in Canada during the summer because of its pristine white sandy beaches, cliffs, and lush forests.

Among the famous beaches are Hornby Island Beach, Little Tribune Bay Beach, Whaling Station Bay, Fossil Beach, and Mushroom Beach. On the other hand, you can experience the best hiking or biking places are Geoffrey Escarpment Provincial Park and Helliwell Provincial Park.

25. Cape Breton

image showing cape breton in nova scotia

Did you know that Cape Breton has been awarded by various travel media for five consecutive years as the #1 island for travel and leisure in Canada and the world?

One way to experience the breathtaking and mystifying landscapes of Cape Breton on a different level is to try their famous hiking trails—Skyline, Franey, Acadian, Fishing Cove, Aspy, and Middle Head Trails are just some of the few.

The tourism of Cape Breton even prepared you for a 7-day hike to the island’s most beautiful and hidden gems, where you can see lighthouses and waterfalls and experience impeccable sunset views. Plus, there is a list of recommended restaurants and hotels for you.

Canada is known to have a multicultural society where people are more open to a safer and more diverse environment promoting inclusivity. Aside from that, Canada is also blessed to have many spectacular landscapes, forests, and crystal-clear lakes.

Visited by millions of tourists worldwide, there is no doubt that Niagara Falls is the number 1 tourist attraction in Canada located on the border between Ontario, Canada, and New York, United States. With its massive size and remarkable beauty, it truly captivates many tourists.

Canada has a lot of unique and beautiful cities that you can visit, but the one that stands out is Vancouver. With its impeccable scenery and the combination of mountains and oceans, it will surely captivate your heart.

Canada has majestic places that offer one-of-a-kind travel experiences with its beautiful mountains and landscapes that keep tourists coming back. Other than natural beauty, Canadian citizens are known for their hospitality and rich cultural diversity that offers inclusivity for all tourists, making them feel safe and welcome.

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Enoch Omololu is a traveller, culinary tourist, and money expert. He is the co-founder of Only Earthlings and established the popular Savvy New Canadians platform. Enoch has been featured in Business Insider, Forbes, Best Life Online, GOBankingRates, Penny Hoarder, Globe and Mail, Yahoo, and CBC News.

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  1. A Canadian tourist

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COMMENTS

  1. The Best Cities in Canada to Visit in 2023

    Banff, Alberta. Banff National Park is one of the most-visited tourist destinations in all of Canada and it's easy to see why. The sparkling turquoise blue waters of Bow River set against the ...

  2. Best Places to Visit in Canada for 2023-2024

    Banff. #1 in Best Places to Visit in Canada for 2023-2024. Nestled amid the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, this tiny mountain town in Alberta appeals to both nature enthusiasts and luxury ...

  3. 16 Best Cities to Visit in Canada (+Map)

    While in Toronto, make sure to check out one of Canada's most iconic landmarks, the CN Tower, currently the 3rd tallest tower in the world. 13. Victoria. The capital of British Columbia is one of Canada's most picturesque cities, with mountain or ocean vistas visible throughout many of its neighborhoods.

  4. 15 of the best places to visit in Canada

    Planning tip: With its mild climate and beautiful beaches, Vancouver is definitely one of the best places in Canada to visit in summer. 5. Baffin Island. Best for Inuit art and incredible landscapes. The rugged landscape of Baffin Island is home to cloud-scraping mountains and a third of Nunavut's human population.

  5. Canada's 10 Most Famous Cities

    Aside from spectacular natural beauty, this British Columbia coastal metropolis has a relaxed charm that makes it one of the most popular Canadian cities to visit. Vancouver is also a gateway to all sorts of nearby adventures, including Whistler/Blackcomb ski resort, and numerous islands off the coast.

  6. 16 Best Cities in Canada

    16. Thunder Bay, Ontario. 1. Toronto, Ontario. The capital of Ontario, the largest city in Canada, and the city that attracts the most visitors in the entire country - there's a lot to be said for Toronto, a bustling city of almost three million people, which is why it earned the top spot on this list.

  7. Best Cities in Canada: World's Best in 2021

    Filippo Bacci/Getty Images. Visitors to No. 2 Vancouver waxed lyrical about its proximity to nature and adventure. "You can tour the city in the morning, sail the harbor in the afternoon, and ski ...

  8. 18 Best Places to Visit in Canada

    Winnipeg. 18. Churchill. Map of Places to Visit in Canada. 1. Vancouver. Vancouver. Highlights: Unlimited outdoor activities, amazing natural beauty, Stanley Park, Granville Island. For beauty, climate, a fun atmosphere, and plenty of things to do, you can't go wrong planning a trip to Vancouver.

  9. 23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Canada

    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. ... Read More: Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Winnipeg; 17. The Okanagan ...

  10. The 5 Best Cities in Canada in 2022

    1. Quebec City, Quebec. To many readers, visiting this city — now in its seventh year at No. 1 — feels like being in Europe, with its churches, cobblestoned streets, and many languages ...

  11. 18 Canadian Cities You Definitely Want To Visit

    St. John's, Newfoundland. Best Places to Stay. St. John's, the largest city in Newfoundland and Labrador, sits on the eastern tip of the Avalon Peninsula. As the oldest city in North America, it's been visited by European explorers, adventurers, soldiers and pirates over the past 500+ years. It has a rich and colorful history, with a ...

  12. Canada Bucket List: 37 Best Places to Visit (By Locals)

    Ask any Canadian about the best places to visit in Canada - and Niagara Falls is always one of the answers. In fact, it's one of the top tourist attractions in all of North America, luring 13 million visitors a year. It was even the "Honeymoon Capital of the World" in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

  13. 12 Best Places to Visit in Canada

    This island is one of AFAR's best places to travel in 2023, in part because of its gorgeous, pastoral scenery—this was the setting of the beloved 1908 novel Anne of Green Gables, after all. Canada's smallest province debuted its 435-mile Island Walk trail in 2022, allowing cyclists and walkers to circumnavigate the entire island.

  14. The Top Destinations to Visit in Canada

    Address. Great Slave Lake, Northwest Territories X0E, Canada. Great Slave Lake is one of the largest lakes in the world as well as North America's deepest lake, with a maximum depth of more than 2,000 feet (615 meters). The lake is a haven for anglers looking to nab a big one and offers the chance to hook a trophy-sized fish.

  15. 14 Beautiful and Best Cities in Canada

    7. Niagara Falls, Ontario. Niagara Falls makes nearly ever list of our favourite and best places in the world. And it is up there as one of the best cities in Canada too! Niagara Falls itself is beautiful, so the city of Niagara has a leg up on other Canadian cities because it is built beside a natural wonder.

  16. 12 BEST Canadian Cities To Visit

    Best Canadian Cities to Visit 1. Banff, Alberta. Banff is a stunning resort town in Alberta famous for its jagged mountains and bright blue water lakes.As one of the world's most photogenic mountain destinations, it is easily one of the best Canadian cities to visit.In Banff, you can enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, ice skating, and more.

  17. 41 Beautiful Places to Visit in Canada

    1. Banff National Park & Lake Louise. Lake Louise in Banff National Park. 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.

  18. 27 Top Tourist Attractions in Canada (+Map)

    4. Polar Bears of Churchill. On the eastern edge of Hudson Bay, a body of water that stretches into the Arctic Ocean, polar bears roam. Churchill is a remote village in one of Canada's most harsh locations, yet every year folks pack their bags and make the journey.

  19. 40 Best Places To Visit In Canada For 2024 Vacay!

    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.

  20. Top 25 Canadian Cities to Visit!

    If you choose to visit, make a list of the cities you want to discover. This will enable you to create a suitable itinerary. For my part, here are the 25 Canadian cities I recommend you visit first. Toronto. The Province: Ontario. The best things to do in Toronto : CN Tower. The Royal Ontario Museum. Ripley's Aquarium.

  21. 10 best cities to visit in Canada during the holidays

    Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Maybe you've visited Niagara-on-the-Lake during its peak summer season, but don't overlook winter at the popular vacation city just yet. Here, you'll find less ...

  22. Best Canadian Cities To Visit: Explore Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal

    Explore the best Canadian cities to visit, from the vibrant coastal city of Vancouver to the cultural hub of Toronto. Discover the charm of Montreal and the historic gem of Quebec City. Plan your adventure in Canada's top destinations. Best Canadian Cities to Visit Vancouver: A Vibrant Coastal City. Vancouver is a city that truly has it all.

  23. 14 Canadian Cities So Gorgeous, They Must Be Seen to Be Believed

    In a country as vast and diverse as Canada, there are countless places to visit, each with its own unique attractions, including some stunning Canadian landmarks.It boasts beautiful landscapes ...

  24. Top Tourist Attractions in Canada: 25 Must-Visit Places

    The best Canadian places to visit during winter are Churchill, Rideau Canal, and Hotel De Glacé. Top Tourist Attractions in Canada 1. Niagara Falls. If you think all you can do in Niagara Falls is to sightsee and take pictures of the magical falls, you are mistaken! You can hop on many fun adventures in Niagara Falls more than you think.