best tourist place canada

15 best places to visit in

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

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

The Rockies

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

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

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

Old Québec City

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

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

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

​​Bay of Fundy

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

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

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

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The 7 Most Underrated Cities in Canada

By Kaitlyn McInnis

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

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

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

Halifax, Nova Scotia

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

Winnipeg, Manitoba

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

Banff, Alberta

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

Quebec City, Quebec

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

Jessica Puckett

CNT Editors

Jesse Ashlock

Victoria, British Columbia

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

Ottawa, Ontario

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

Moncton, New Brunswick

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

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

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

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

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

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

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

Tofino, British Columbia

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

Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland

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

Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia

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

South Shore, Nova Scotia

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

Quebec City, Quebec

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

Clayoquot Sound, British Columbia

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

Montreal, Quebec

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

Niagara Falls, Ontario

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

Golden, British Columbia

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

Joffre Lakes Park, British Columbia

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

Cheakamus Lake, British Columbia

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

Haida Gwaii, British Columbia

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

Banff National Park, Alberta

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

Tombstone Territorial Park, Yukon Territory

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

Kluane National Park, Yukon Territory

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

Somerset Island, Nunavut

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

Bonavista Peninsula, Newfoundland & Labrador

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

Torngat Mountains, Newfoundland & Labrador

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

Prince Edward Island

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

Victoria, British Columbia

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

Where to Go in Canada: 26 Great Places for Your Next Trip

What makes canada so spectacular is more than what you might imagine. from montreal’s bagels to the northern lights, these are the best places to visit in canada to authentically immerse yourself in the country..

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Canada is home to many things: outrageously beautiful landscapes, candy-colored coastal towns, rich Indigenous culture, Ryan Reynolds, and more over-the-top poutine creations than we can count. The best places to visit in Canada are all about its diverse cultures and scenic beauty, making for experiences that enrich you and your palate as much as the wide-open spaces clear your mind. Opportunities to go deeper here are vast and stretch from coast to coast to coast, dip way down south and way, way up north. The world’s second-largest country knows no limits when it comes to travel, but these 26 places are a pretty good start, eh?

Niagra Falls in Canada is an iconic destination.

Photo by Niagara Parks Commission

1. Niagara Falls

Cascading between the U.S. and Canadian border, this group of roaring waterfalls showcases the power of nature in all its misty glory. After a 40-minute drive from Buffalo-Niagara International Airport, hop aboard one of Hornblower’s boats to be one of their drenched delighted guests, or book a ticket for the “ Journey Behind The Falls ,” a transformative ride both below and behind these surging giants.

2. Toronto, for its diverse cuisine

Hailed as one of the most diverse cities on Earth, 250 ethnicities call Toronto home, earning its motto, “Diversity, Our Strength.” From fish tacos at Grand Electric to Scaramouche’s Canadian grass-fed filet mignon and superlative sushi at Shoushin , this is a must-visit city if you travel for food. A $47 flat fee taxi ride or a $12.35 train fare will get you from Pearson Airport to downtown Toronto in under 45-minutes, where you can slurp soup dumplings in Chinatown, devour bibimbap in Koreatown, gobble fried dosa in Little India, and sample fry bread at Toronto’s First Nations restaurants.

3. Montreal Bagels

They say it’s something in the water. Hand-made then boiled in honey water and finished off in a wood-fired oven, the crispy crust of a Montreal bagel has become a national treasure. Snag a warm one at the famous St-Viateur Bagel , or try a neighborhood gem like Beaubien Bagel for unfussy, unrelenting levels of deliciousness. Land at Montréal-Trudeau Airport and take a bus or taxi downtown in less than it takes to craft a bagel. They’re worth the flight.

4. Québec City

A little slice of Europe in North America, history and culture permeate throughout the city. Stroll the cobblestone streets of Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore Wendake , a 17th-century Huron-Wendat settlement that’s slightly outside the city. Try Indigenous cuisine at Restaurant Sagamité and stay at Hotel-Musée Premières Nations , a First Nations boutique hotel. Accessible by plane to Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport , or train to Gare du Palais, the nation’s capital is captivating.

Nova Scotia

The Bay of Fundy

Photo by Destination Canada

5. Lobstering (Barrington)

Hailed as the “Lobster Capital Of Canada,” this charming coastal community is hard not to fall in love with. Fly into Halifax Stanfield International Airport or take the CAT ferry from Bar Harbour, Maine to south Nova Scotia. Here you can gaze at towering light-houses, learn to row a traditional Dory or try your hand at weaving wool at the Woolen Mill Museum . Whatever you do, don’t leave without trying lobster poutine followed by a sundae from Dan’s Ice Cream Shoppe .

6. Cape Breton Island

Rugged coastlines and dramatic landscapes encapsulate the territory of the Mi’kmaq People. Walk the famous Cabot Trail but save energy for a Mi’kmaq Medicine Walk through the forest. Stop at the Membertou Heritage Park to learn about the culture of the Mi’kmaq People and stay for lunch at Kiju for local cedar plank salmon. Catch a connecting flight to JA Douglas McCurdy Sydney Airport or enjoy a scenic drive on the Trans-Canada Highway all the way to Cape Breton Island.

New Brunswick

7. the bay of fundy.

A natural wonder, this bay is home to the highest tides on the planet. At the head of the St. John harbor you can see a waterfall flow upstream and the St. John River flow backwards in a swirling mass of whirlpools at high tide. During low tide walk along the Atlantic Ocean floor at Bay of Fundy National Park looking for dinosaur fossils and exploring caves with the Fundy Geological Museum .

In the summer months, travelers can spot the rare North-Atlantic right whale off the coast with a local whale watching tour. Renting a car is the best option for exploring after landing at Greater Moncton-Roméo Leblanc International Airport, Fredericton International Airport or stepping off the VIA Rail.

8. Village Historique Acadien

There are more than 25,000 Acadians living in New Brunswick. Descendants of French settlers, they’re known for a joie de vivre palpable in their music, festivals and food, most visible on August 15, National Acadian Day. After landing at Greater Moncton-Roméo Leblanc International Airport or Fredericton International Airport, rent a car and drive to Village Historique Acadien . Here travelers get a peek into Acadian life in the 18th-century from its open-air museum and Acadian cooking classes. Stay overnight at the Château Albert , designed by an Acadian architect.

9. Bison in Riding Mountain National Park

The plains bison at one point had vanished from Manitoba, but thanks to a conservation effort in the early 1900s, visitors can now witness these striking creatures up close. The park’s closest airports are Dauphin and Brandon Municipal. From here, rent a car and visit the Lake Audy Bison Enclosure inside Riding Mountain National Park, home to 40 roaming plain bison.

10. Manitoba Wildlife Safari

When it comes to a Canadian safari, you won’t be seeing lions. Instead, the “Big 5” here are polar bear, grizzlies, moose, wolf, and plains buffalo. You’ll spot black bears, moose, deer, and elk in Riding Mountain National Park, and polar bears, caribou, arctic fox, and belugas in northern Manitoba. Multi-day tours led by companies like Great Canadian Travel start at Winnipeg International Airport, take you through the National Park and then up to Churchill for a chance to see these truly majestic animals and in winter, gaze at the Northern Lights.

British Columbia

Ski in one of British Columbia’s 13 ski resorts.

Grant Gunderson/Grant Gunderson

11. British Columbia’s ski resorts

There’s no better place to traverse the fresh powder than one of British Columbia’s 13 ski resorts. The famous Whistler Blackcomb has two mountains to choose from, ideal for beginners, experts and families. If you’re after something smaller, try Apex Mountain or Manning Park Resort . Fly into Vancouver International Airport and drive towards the rugged mountain peak for some unforgettable skiing and snowboarding.

12. Vancouver

The perfect mix of vibrant city and natural beauty, Vancouver has it all. From the airport, the quickest and most sustainable way to get to the city center is a 25-minute ride on the Vancouver International Airport Skytrain. With a city-wide emphasis on going green, try Forage , an area favorite restaurant specializing in locally sourced ingredients. After, shop local designers on Main Street and pay a visit to The Soap Dispensary , the city’s first zero-waste, refillable shop while you’re there.

Prince Edward Island

13. red sand beaches.

The deep red hue intensifies as the tides creep up the beaches on Prince Edward Island . Rich with iron, around 500 miles of striking red sand beaches can be found here, including Thunder Cove Beach, a local favorite, and the more popular Cavendish Beach is a short drive away. Renting a car is the best way to enjoy the red sands, available at Charlottetown Airport or bring your own on the PEI Ferry.

14. Green Gables Heritage Place

A beloved literary landmark, Green Gables Heritage Place was the inspiration behind local author Lucy Maud Montgomery’s famous novel Anne Of Green Gables , a tale about a spunky orphan named Anne. A 40-minute drive from Charlottetown Airport, the house is open for tours, or walk the grounds and skip along the Haunted Wood Trail— just like Anne would do.

Saskatchewan

15. trans-canada highway.

Also known as Highway 1, this country-wide highway has a 406-mile section across Saskatchewan. You’ll need to stretch your legs along the drive, so stop for some bird-watching at Moose Mountain Provincial Park or admire Indigenous beading and artwork at Moose Jaw Museum & Art Gallery . When you get hungry, the newly-opened The Moose and Bannock serves First Nations cuisine well worth stopping for.

16. Prairie Grasslands

Wheat waves in the wind on Saskatchewan’s millions of acres of grasslands. Due to climate change, this ecosystem is one of the country’s most threatened. The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Association works closely with local ranchers, Parks Canada, and provincial governments to protect the rolling hills, caribou, and woodland valleys. A short drive over the U.S. border with Montana takes travelers to Grasslands National Park where they can do self-driving tours or walk the plentiful hiking trails.

Canmore is one of the must-visit destinations in Alberta.

Photo by William Patino

17. Banff National Park and the Rockies

The piercing blue waters of Lake Louise against craggy, snow-capped cliffs—you’ve definitely tapped “like” on these images before. A nature- and Instagram-lover’s dream, the majestic Moraine Lake and the Peyto Lake viewpoint is a hike that should be at the top of the list. And from December to February, visitors can watch the bright green and purples of the Northern Lights dances across the Rockies. The Jasper Dark Sky Preserve makes an ideal spot for viewing the phenomenon, in addition to epic stargazing. From Calgary International Airport, it’s a 90-minute drive or bus ride to Banff .

18. Canmore

Like something out of a storybook, Canmore’s jagged mountain top scenery is actually real. A much-loved adventure sports destination, this Rocky Mountain town offers hiking, biking, skiing, kayaking, rafting, and climbing. Boutique shops, the Indigenous art gallery, Carter Ryan Gallery, and cozy cafes are scattered around town. Name it, and you can do it—all a 90-minute drive from Calgary International Airport.

Newfoundland

19. fogo island.

Off Newfoundland and Labrador, Fogo Island offers a treasure trove of natural beauty and small-town charm. Home to an exciting art community and the award-winning design masterpiece Fogo Island Inn , the island’s 11 small cities and towns are best explored by car. Connect to Gander International Airport, rent a car and take the 50-minute ferry to Fogo Island. Once you land on the island, you’ll feel like you’re a world away.

20. Iceberg Alley

Floating from Labrador down to Newfoundland, these giant chunks of ice are tens of thousands of years old. Best viewed in late May or early June, travelers can book with companies like Iceberg Man Tours to get close to these massive icebergs or kayak around them. Fly to John’s International Airport, rent a car and drive from St. Lewis to St. John’s, spotting icebergs the entire way .

Northwest Territories

Blachford Lake Lodge, Yellowknife // Photo by Martina Gebarovska

Frank Bergdoll

21. Yellowknife to See the Northern Lights

There’s no better place in the world to catch a glimpse of the undulating aurora borealis than the dark skies of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories. Indigenous-owned businesses like Aurora Village and North Star Adventure offer hotel and aurora-viewing packages for the best chance of spotting this mystifying natural phenomenon with the naked eye. You’ll need at least one connection to reach Yellowknife Airport, but trust us, it’s worth it.

22. Virginia Falls

Inside the remote Nahanni National Park Reserve is one of the country’s most spectacular waterfalls. Twice the size of Niagara Falls, it’s reachable by chartered floatplane from Fort Simpson or Yellowknife or by extensive hike. There are a variety of licensed air charter companies to get you there safely, including Alpine Aviation and Summit Air.

23. Dog Sledding

A time-honored mode of transport in the Yukon territory, dog sledding has been a popular activity for decades. Indigenous tour operator Josie’s Old Crow Adventures takes guests along the Porcupine River or up Crow Mountain driven by lead dogs, Bucko and Leo. Each of their 16 dogs is like a member of the family, and all respond to “Mush!” This is a fly-in-only community of 240 people, so take a plane to Old Crow Airport to start your adventure. If you come in wintertime, there’s a good chance you’ll catch the Northern Lights in this remote northern territory.

24. Klondike Gold Rush

One August day in 1896, a man named Skookum Jim struck gold in Bonanza Creek. What followed was one of the world’s biggest Gold Rushes. Today, travelers can trace the path of the more than 100,000 prospectors along the Chilkoot Trail hike or fly to Dawson City Airport via Whitehorse International Airport. A 15-minute drive takes you to Dawson City, home to the country’s oldest gambling hall, Diamond Tooth Gerties , where a can-can show is still the main attraction. Borrow a pan from Dawson City Visitor Centre and go panning for gold at Free Claim #6; anything you find, you keep.

Learn about indigenous culture in Nunavut.

Marlin Olynyk

25. Narwhals (Arctic Bay)

Known as the unicorns of the sea, narwhals may as well be mythical creatures. A whale varietal, these sea dwellers are famous for the long tusk jutting out of their heads. With just 80,000 remaining in nature, the majority of them spend their time in the Canadian Arctic. Arctic Bay Adventures is Inuit-owned and operated with multi-day packages to spot narwhals near Baffin Island. Fly to the ultra-remote Arctic Bay Airport and be sure to pack your binoculars.

26. Inuit culture

Nearly 40,000 people live in Nunavut, with the vast majority being Inuit. A largely young population, mostly under the age of 40, they’re passionate about sharing their traditions with the world. At the Jessie Oonark Centre in Baker Lake, artists carve soapstone, and seamstresses create pieces from traditional materials like seal skin. At the Uqqurmiut Arts and Crafts Centre in Pangnirtung, craftspeople create tapestries and design prints for sale. With no roads, air is the easiest and fastest way to travel around Nunavut, with most communities having a local airport.

The Best 25 Things to Do in Canada

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

See the Northern Lights in Yukon

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

Take a Stroll in Stanley Park

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

Soak Stress Away at Banff Upper Hot Springs

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

Bike the Confederation Trail

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

Snap Some Photos of Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

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

Take a Walk on the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk

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

Traverse the Capilano Suspension Bridge

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

Experience the Calgary Stampede

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

Float the Day Away at Little Manitou Lake

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

Visit the Hopewell Rocks

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

Camp in Killarney Provincial Park

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

Try the EdgeWalk at CN Tower

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

Check out Wood Buffalo National Park

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

Explore Old Town Lunenburg

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

Head Underground via Toronto’s PATH

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

Explore the East Coast Trail

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

Go Back in Time in Old Montreal

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

Eat Your Way Though St. Lawrence Market

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

Stop by Little Limestone Lake

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

Browse the Art Gallery of Ontario

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

Spend Time in Prince Edward Island National Park

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

Visit Pond Inlet

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

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

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

Shop the Iconic Jean-Talon Market

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

Stay on Fogo Island

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

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12 Best Places to Visit in Canada

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

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

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

12. Calgary [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

11. Churchill [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

10. Cape Breton Island [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

9. Ottawa [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

8. Whistler [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

7. Vancouver Island [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

6. Quebec City [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

5. Toronto [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

4. Montreal [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

3. Niagara Falls [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

2. Vancouver [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

1. Banff National Park [SEE MAP]

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

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

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

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

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Reader interactions.

April 11, 2018 at 5:30 am

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

June 28, 2017 at 11:19 pm

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

April 21, 2017 at 8:24 am

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

February 21, 2017 at 3:15 pm

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

November 24, 2016 at 7:51 am

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

May 9, 2016 at 9:19 pm

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

March 22, 2016 at 5:06 pm

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

January 9, 2016 at 6:51 am

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

December 26, 2015 at 4:15 pm

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

August 25, 2015 at 7:33 am

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

May 8, 2015 at 5:19 am

I would like to visit Canada!

December 8, 2014 at 8:25 am

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

February 14, 2014 at 11:21 pm

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

October 31, 2013 at 8:21 am

These Places Are Beautiful

October 12, 2013 at 12:50 am

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

August 13, 2013 at 2:04 am

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

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

August 7, 2013 at 12:15 am

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

July 31, 2013 at 10:30 am

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

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41 Beautiful Places to Visit in Canada

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 19, 2024

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

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in Canada

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

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

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

1. Banff National Park & Lake Louise

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

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

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

2. Icefields Parkway

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

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

3. Columbia Icefields Skywalk

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

4. Alberta Badlands

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

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

5. Jasper National Park

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

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

6. Maligne Lake

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

7. Waterton Lakes National Park

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

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

Watch our video: The Best Places in Canada to Visit

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

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

8. Whistler

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

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

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

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

10. Okanagan Valley

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

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

11. Victoria

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

12. Vancouver

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

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

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

13. Churchill

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

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

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

14. Hudson Bay

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

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

15. Canadian Museum of Human Rights

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

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

16. Lunenburg

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

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

17. Cape Breton

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

18. Peggy’s Cove

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

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

19. Three Sisters

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

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

20. Bay of Fundy Hopewell Rocks

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

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

21. Fundy National Park

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

22. Kouchibouguac National Park

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

23. St. Martins

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

24. Niagara Falls

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

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

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

25. CN Tower

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

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

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

26. Algonquin Park

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

27. Lake Superior North Shore

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

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

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

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

29. Manitoulin Island

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

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

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

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

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

30. Confederation Bridge

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

31. Charlottetown

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

32. Quebec City

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

33. Wendake

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

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

34. Old Montreal

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

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

35. Mont Tremblant

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

36. Dempster Highway

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

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

37. Dawson City

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

38. Ivvavik National Park

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

39. Mackenzie Delta

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

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

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

40. the Torngat Mountains

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

41. Gros Morne National Park

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

42. Grasslands National Park

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

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

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

Check out these articles about Canada

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

Travel Planning Resources

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

thanks for sharing this amazing post

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

23 Mar 2023

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

40 Best Places To Visit In Canada In 2024

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

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

1. Niagara Falls: An Elegant View

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

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

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

Location: Ontario, Canada

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2. Whistler: Your Perfect Ski Resort

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

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

Things To Do:

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

Location: British Columbia, Canada

3. Quebec City: Explore The French Influence

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

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

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

Location: Québec, Canada

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4. St. John’s: An Artist’s Retreat

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

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

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

Location: Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

5. Tofino: A Water Lover’s Paradi

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

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

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

Location: Vancouver Island, Canada

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6. Churchill: Seek Tons Of Adventure

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

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

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

Location: Manitoba, Canada

7. Old Montreal: Discover An Old-World Charm

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

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

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

Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada

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8. Banff National Park: A Popular Destination

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

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

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

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

9. Stanley Park: The French Connection

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

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

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

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

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10. Butchart Gardens: A Picture-Perfect Land

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

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

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

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

11. Okanagan Valley: A Paradise For Tourists

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

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

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

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12. Gros Morne National Park: Explore The Geological Diversity

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

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

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

13. Algonquin Provincial Park: A Perfect Spot For Tourists

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

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

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

Location: Ontario 60, Ontario K0J 2M0, Canada

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14. Yoho National Park: A Must Visit Destination

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

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

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

Location: Field, BC V0A 1G0, Canada

15. CN Tower, Toronto: For A Remarkable Time

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

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

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

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

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16. Lake Louise: Perfect For Adventure Sports

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

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

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

Location: Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada

17. Bay Of Fundy: Witness The Oceanic Experience

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

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

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

Location: New Brunswick, Canada

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18. The Yukon: A Magical Delight

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

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

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

Location: Yukon, NW, Canada

19. Garibaldi Lake: With Wondrous Sights

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

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

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

Location: Garibaldi Provincial Park, British Columbia, Canada

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20. Pyramid Lake: A Picturesque Water Resource

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

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

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

Location: Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada

21. Cheakamus Lake: For Stunning Views

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

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

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

Location: Garibaldi Provincial Park

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22. Maligne Lake: Paradise For Photographers

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

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

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

Location: Jasper National Park

23. Hornby Island: A Simple Slice Of Land

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

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

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

Location : British Columbia

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24. Cape Breton: An Unexplored Land

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

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

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

Location:  Nova Scotia

25. Forillon National Park: Hike The Untamed Trails

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

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

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

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

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26. Moraine Lake: Witness The Clear Reflection Of Mountains

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

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

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

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

27. Perce Rock: Admire The Natural Beauty

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

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

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

Location:  Percé, Quebec, Canada

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28. Mingan Monoliths: Gape At The Oldest Monoliths

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

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

• Explore the nearby places at your own pace. 

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

29. Jasper National Park: Get Ready For Adventure

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

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

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

Location:  Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada

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30. Peggy’s Cove: Explore The Hidden Gem

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

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

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

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

Things To Do: Trekking Location: Yukon, Canada

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32. Osoyoos: Taste Wine & Get The Best Views

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

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

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

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

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

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34. The Grotto: Haven For Adventure Fanatics

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

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

35. Montmorency Falls: Explore The Highest Falls

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

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

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36. Capilano Suspension Bridge: Lap Of Nature Calls You

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

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

37. Waterton Lakes National Park: Bags All The Titles

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

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

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

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

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

39. Kluane National Park and Reserve: For Wildlife Enthusiasts

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

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

Suggested Read : 7 Places To Visit Near Abbotsford 

40. Mont Tremblant: For Skiing Activities

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

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

Further Read: Top Beaches In Canada 

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Canada

What is the most beautiful part of Canada?

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

Where should I go in Canada for the first time?

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

Where should I spend my vacation in Canada?

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

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

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

What is the best time to visit Canada?

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

What is Canada known for?

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

What is famous in Canada to buy?

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

What are 3 things Canada is famous for?

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

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25 Best Places to Visit in Canada

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Oh, Canada.

It’s no wonder that this country is beloved by visitors all over the world, with its stunning natural landscapes and unique, thriving cities.

From the ski slopes and rainforests of the West Coast to the fossils and cowboy towns of the plains, from wild polar bears up north to beautiful seaside towns out east, it is a place with more wonders and delights than can ever be seen in one visit.

It seems impossible to pick the best places to visit in Canada… but we gave it a shot.

Read on to discover hiking trails, winter wonderlands, thriving metropolises, and more!

1 – Banff National Park

For outdoor lovers, there are few better places to go in Canada than the sparkling alpine wilderness of Banff National Park.

While the mountains and forests are stunning, it’s the lakes that make Banff famous.

Whether you’re admiring the crystal-clear waters of Lake Louise, gazing at the mountainous backdrop of Moraine Lake, or enjoying year-round sports and fun at Two-Jack Lake or Johnson Lake, you’ll be enchanted by the water and its hold on the area.

You can also hike, fish, ski, raft, or ride horses through the stunning wilderness.

If animals are more your speed, take a wildlife-watching tour for a chance at spotting elk and grizzlies, then see some of their taxidermied counterparts at the Banff Park Museum National Historic Site.

And if you’re looking for some more culturally-focused things to do in Banff , stop by the Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum to learn about local Indigenous tribes, or take a spin on the thrilling rides at Calaway Park.

There’s no shortage of adventures to be had in this picturesque land.

2 – Drumheller, Alberta

Hadrosaurs amble across the landscape, searching for plants and nesting areas.

Somewhere in the distance, an Albertosaurus – cousin to the T-Rex – utters its fearsome roar.

This may have been the daily scene in Alberta some 65 million years ago, but you can still see some remnants of it in Drumheller, known as “the dinosaur capital of the world.”

The town earned its reputation due to its enormous concentration of fossils, many of which can be seen at the Royal Tyrrell Museum .

Get up close with well-preserved skeletons from various prehistoric eras, including triceratops, tyrannosaurus, and ichthyosaurs.

Afterwards, you can head into town to see more dino-themed delights, from fossil shops to souvenir stands.

Don’t miss a photo op with the World’s Largest Dinosaur, an 86-foot tall recreation of a Tyrannosaurus.

You can even climb a set of stairs to a viewpoint in its mouth!

And be sure to take some time to visit the other sites in town, including the creative play area of Rotary Spray Park and Fountain, the scenic boating paradise of Newcastle Beach, and a variety of beautiful hiking trails.

This beautiful town will satisfy the paleontology nerd in everyone!

3 – St. John’s

For a little bit of East Coast flavor, St. John’s offers charm in spades.

It’s not only the provincial capital of Newfoundland and Labrador, but also the most easterly city in the country.

Unsurprisingly for a town that’s practically in the middle of the ocean, St. John’s has a distinguished maritime history.

You can check out some of the beautiful ships in the harbor, then head over to the nearby restaurants, such as Saltwater Restaurant or Adelaide Oyster House – to sample some of the fresh catches.

But there’s more to this charming port than fishing and shipping.

For starters, it has a lively arts scene, ranging from regular concerts and art gallery openings to live theater at Memorial University’s Arts and Culture Center .

And hikers will be thrilled, with such solid options as the North Head Trail and the East Coast Trail to choose from.

History fans will enjoy Cabot Tower, an impressive structure built to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Newfoundland’s discovery by Europeans, or The Rooms, a multipurpose community space that offers an impressive array of exhibits chronicling the area’s past.

Or you can stroll along Jellybean Row to admire the multi-colored houses, which, true to their name, look like an upended box of candies with their many beautiful hues.

Enjoy the coastal atmosphere and charming mix of small-town and city life that St. John’s has to offer!

4 – Montreal

Brush up on your French lessons before heading to one of the crown jewels of Quebec.

Montreal has long been known as one of the most culturally dynamic places to go in Canada. There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Montreal for those looking to explore a busy metropolis at length.

For festival enthusiasts, there’s a near-constant lineup of massive events, from the iconic Montreal Jazz Festival to the side-splitting comedy of the Just For Laughs Festival .

Nature fans will love the Biosphere, a massive structure filled with perfectly recreated ecosystems, or the Insectarium, where you can get up close and personal with some beautiful bugs.

Museum lovers will thrill to the various institutions in town, including the tributes to the social history of Canadians at the McCord Museum , and the multidisciplinary exhibits at Redpath Museum , which are curated and presented by college students.

Arts aficionados will love catching live music at beloved venues such as Casa Del Popolo, hearing a performance at the Orchestre Symphonique de Montreal, or visiting the galleries of Musee d’Art Contemporain de Montreal.

And of course, like any big city, half the fun in Montreal comes from wandering through the unique neighborhoods.

Stroll the charming cobblestone avenues of Old Montreal, explore the diverse cultures of Mile End, or visit the many restaurants and shops of Saint Laurent Boulevard.

Throw in a mighty culinary scene (poutine galore!), ample day trips (Quebec City is a mere three hours away), and plenty of shopping and sporting opportunities, and you have a phenomenal vacation destination.

5 – Halifax

With its picturesque lighthouses and ever-rotating fleet of ships, Halifax has a well-earned status as a nautical destination.

But this delightful coastal town, which is also the capital of Nova Scotia has lots of attractions to offer.

Enjoy the healthy cultural life of the city’s many galleries and performance spaces, including Eyelevel Artist-Run Center, which focuses on experimental projects.

Catch some avant-garde films at the FIN Atlantic International FIlm Festival , or see live local talent in action at Eastern Front Theatre.

Or head to the great outdoors to enjoy some of the city’s many natural offerings.

Hike or bike on delightful shoreside trails, then head to the water for swimming, kayaking, or even catch a wave with East Coast Surf School.

While you can easily enjoy the town on your own, there are lots of excellent tours available. Head out on foot, or make the trip by bike, boat, or even Segway.

And if all of this exploring makes you hungry, there are plenty of excellent restaurants to try, with cuisine ranging from Caribbean to pastries to sandwiches – and, of course, plenty of fish.

Finally, taking a scenic drive along the coast or joining a whale-watching tour are unforgettable things to do in Halifax for nature lovers.

There’s a wonderful blend of big-city offerings, small-town charm, and lots of great outdoor excursions to be found in Halifax, so pack your sailing gear and head over!

6 – Quebec City

Just up the road from Montreal, Quebec’s capital offers a rare mix of European and American culture that echoes that of its neighbor.

History is the main focus here, and you can spend an entire visit just exploring the different buildings and cultural areas.

Check out the classical  buildings and fortified walls of Old Quebec City, or dive deeper into the stories of the human race at Musee de la Civilisation , the local anthropology museum.

But there are tons of other wonderful things to do in Quebec , no matter your interest..

You can enjoy stunning views from the top of the Quebec City Capital Observatory, take in a world-class show at Theatre Capitole, or visit nearby Jacques-Cartier National Park to do some mountain biking.

And even by Canadian standards, the city goes all out for winter!

Take a dogsled team out for a run through the woods, or frolic in the snow, watch parades, and enjoy ice sculptures at the Quebec Winter Carnival, then bed down for the evening in the Ice Hotel, which is made entirely of, you guessed it, ice.

No matter the season, you can spend some time exploring the city’s many creative activities, from escape rooms and haunted tours to scavenger hunts and library tours.

Don’t miss out on this beautiful city and its plentiful offerings.

7 – Niagara Falls

It’s one of the most iconic tourist attractions in North America for a reason; with its beautiful, massive falls crashing down into the river, Niagara offers an incredible display.

But there are plenty of things to do in Niagara Falls besides seeing the water – although you should, of course.

Check out the lovely flowers and scenic vistas of Queen Victoria Park, or check out the wax museums, amusement park rides, and putt-putt courses at Clifton Hill.

Or take a stroll across the Rainbow Bridge, which connects the Canadian and American sides of the falls.

Of course, boat tours are some of the best ways to really appreciate the beauty of Niagara.

Hop aboard the famed Hornblower to go up to – and behind! – the falls, or embark on the Maid of the Mist for a day tour to both the Canadian and American sides of the park.

Book a night cruise to see another beautiful vantage point, with the city’s neon dazzling and the falls themselves awash in colorful lights.

And if you’d prefer a really unique angle to view the scenery, consider taking a helicopter tour .

As you soar over the falls, you’ll be treated to showstopping views of one of the world’s great natural wonders, as well as the landmarks on each side.

It will be an unforgettable experience!

8 – Vancouver Island

Two hours from the city of Vancouver, and just off the coast of British Columbia, Vancouver Island’s striking natural beauty is only matched by its unique cultural offerings.

At the Royal BC Museum , you can learn all about British Columbia’s long and exciting history, from the early days of prehistoric beasts to the daily lives of various Indigneous tribes, all the way through the rise of the lumber and shipping industries.

Or you can head out for a day on the water or on the trails at such scenic spots as Elk Falls Provincial Park and Pacific Rim National Park.

And while you’re seeing all the sights that the island has to offer, don’t miss a trip to Tofino.

This charming village is located in the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Region, itself a world-class destination.

As you wander the area,  you may suddenly find yourself deep in a peaceful patch of woods, or standing on a beautiful beach as the tide rolls in.

It’s all part of the wonderful experience of the area, which teems with life in overlapping environments.

Back in town, you can visit one of three nature interpretation centers to learn more about the unique ecosystem around you, or learn more about the local Indgenous cultures at the House of Himwitsa First Nations Gallery.

Throw in shopping, dining, and plenty of surfing opportunities, and you have an underrated destination that punches way above its weight class.

This is one island you won’t mind being stranded on!

9 – Toronto

From its world-renowned skyline to its internationally renowned sports and art scenes, Toronto is one of Canada’s most beloved cities for a reason.

No matter what type of vacation you want, you’ll be able to find it here.

From the delicious cuisine at Kensington Market to the interactive thrills at the Hockey Hall of Fame , from live shows in the Entertainment District to unique movies at the Toronto International Film Festival , there’s no shortage of options to explore.

Check out the thousands of works on display at the Art Gallery of Ontario, or wander past the vibrant murals of Graffiti Alley.

Sample beers or wines with expertly curated tours, or stop by Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada to catch a glimpse of some truly dynamic sealife.

For more unusual excursions, try the Museum of Illusions, whose galleries are designed to playfully warp your brain, or the Bata Shoe Museum, which features an eclectic collection of footwear.

As you view the skyline from the top of the CN Tower, you’ll be sure to fall in love with the city all over again.

With so many things to do in Toronto , one visit will never be enough!

10 – Ottawa

While the country’s capital may not always get the same attention as it’s more famous neighbors, it boasts a whole variety of amenities for travelers.

If you like museums, you’ll be in paradise, with such unique and excellent institutions as the Canadian War Museum and the Bank of Canada Museum .

Are outdoorsy things more your style? Try the beautiful local parks such as Gatineau Park and Confederation Park.

And if you’re looking for unusual experiences, try seeing the city with an interactive scavenger hunt, or take a ride on Interzip – the only zip line between two Canadian provinces!

With political tourism, farmer’s markets, and fun galore, you’ll never run out of things to do in Ottawa .

11 – Churchill

The dinosaur capital of the world is great, but it’s not the only town in Canada that boasts some impressive creatures.

If you visit the “polar bear capital of the world” – Churchill, Manitoba – you’ll see some more modern-day giants.

In the vast, open plains, you’ll easily be able to spot these magnificent Arctic predators as they roam the land, searching for food.

Once you’ve seen these fantastic animals in action, head to the water for a beluga tour, spend some time bird-watching, or go out in the evening to watch the spectacular Northern Lights rippling across the sky.

Don’t miss the chance to see some truly wild landscapes, and their beautiful inhabitants one of the best places to visit in Canada for animal lovers.

Read more: Best Places to See the Northern Lights Around the Globe

12 – Jasper National Park

Much like nearby Banff, Jasper National Park is chock full of natural wonders and great adventures for outdoor enthusiasts – one of the best places to visit in Canada for nature seekers.

See the stunning Athabasca Glacier up close, or admire the pure waters of Medicine Lake, Beauvert Lake, and Pyramid Lake.

While the park is the main attraction, there are plenty of things to do in Jasper as well.

This quaint little town is the place to go for great art (Our Native Land offers wonderful works by Indigneous artists), compelling history (the Canadian National Railway Station reflects the region’s transportation background), and unwinding at the many excellent spas around town.

With so many adventures to be had in Jasper National Park and the surrounding area, you’ll immediately want to book a return visit!

13 – Waterton Lakes National Park of Canada

This 195 square mile gem, which is nestled between Alberta and the Rockies, packs a huge punch despite its relatively small size.

Geology enthusiasts will especially love the area; in addition to the mountains themselves, there are an abundance of vividly colored rocks, as well as ample opportunities to see some of the oldest exposed sediment in the area.

Waterton Lakes National Park is also a haven for wildflower fans, with hundreds of species blooming every spring.

And if bear-watching is on your list, this is the park to visit; grizzlies and black bears can frequently be spotted feeding and loafing along the lakeshores.

It’s an underrated place with beauty to spare!

14 – Mont-Tremblant

Another charming piece of Europe in the Great White North, Mont-Tremblant is a thriving cultural hub.

You can enjoy contemporary works by renowned artists at the Public Space of Mont-Tremblant, a beautiful town square, or catch one of the many free concerts that take place around town throughout the year.

If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to stop by the Summer Market to browse through some of the freshest produce, finest meats, and best-crafted artisan goods from around the region.

During the winter, Mont-Tremblant is one of the best places in Canada for skiing; head to the nearby mountain for some excellent slopes, or hit the nearby trails for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.

If you’re an adrenaline junkie, be sure to check out the snowparks, where you can test your snowboarding skills on some top-notch courses.

And regardless of the season, don’t miss out on the range of unique opportunities available around town, from public art tours to canoeing trails.

You can wind down from all of these adventures with boutique shopping and diverse dining options.

With a lively atmosphere and celebrations galore, this idyllic town will keep you entertained for eons.

15 – Cape Breton Highlands National Park

From the mountains to the sea, Cape Breton Highlands offers stunning scenery.

The best way to see it all is by hiking, and the park offers dozens of trails that are suitable for every interest level.

If you prefer to drive, cruise along the iconic Cabot Trail, a popular road that winds along the coast and through the beautiful vistas within the park itself.

Along the way, you may spot some of the local wildlife, such as bald eagles, red-tailed hawks, black bears, and even moose.

But it’s well worth taking to the water as well, where you can fish for Atlantic salmon or speckled trout.

You can go even further if you rent a kayak, exploring the gentle waves and bays of the sea up close.

Keep an eye out for breaching whales!

This beautiful conjunction of land and sea makes for a memorable vacation spot.

16 – Whistler

When you think of Whistler, you almost certainly think of skiing.

And it’s true that the slopes here are phenomenal, with Blackcomb Mountain and Whistler Mountain offering world-famous courses and stunning terrain.

But there are plenty of other things to do in Whistler no matter what the snow levels are.

You can stop by the free summer concert series at Whistler Olympic Plaza, sample some delicious meals at the Spring Culinary Series, or thrill to the bicycle stunts at Crankworx Whistler.

Don’t miss this winter wonderland or its summer splendor!

17 – Calgary

Calgary has long been famous for one thing: the Calgary Stampede. This massive rodeo draws contestants and attendees from all over the world.

But there’s a lot more things to do in Calgary than cattle roping!

Explore the massive caverns of Canmore Caves, or jam out to the musical exhibitions at Studio Bell.

Stop by the Scotiabank Saddledome to watch a hockey game, or dive into a world of discovery at the TELUS Spark Science Center.

Visit Heritage Park Historical Village to experience a day in the Old West, or enjoy the fleet of vintage cars at Gasoline Alley.

For a slightly wilder day, take on the rollercoasters at Calaway Park , or race your loved ones in a round of downhill karting.

Or just sit back and relax on a scenic tour in a pretty unique vehicle – a motorcycle sidecar!

And of course, if you’re in town in July, you really should catch some of the Stampede – it’s famous for a reason, after all.

This wild, wonderful town is full of surprises.

18 – Canada theme parks

Looking for the best places to visit in Canada with kids?

Canada is a famous destination not only for outdoor activities and incredible natural sights but also for thrilling and fun rides. Check out the best theme parks in Canada to complete your adventures in this vast and diverse land.

Make sure to experience Canada’s Wonderland in Ontario, the country’s largest theme park with over 200 rides! You can easily spend a day riding the 17 roller coasters, especially when you can’t get enough of the Yukon Striker, Leviathan and Behemoth — for the maximum thrill level!

Canada’s Wonderland also has two children’s playgrounds and Splash Works water park, home to the White Water Bay outdoor wave pool.

Can’t get enough water fun? Head to Canada’s largest wave pool at Calypso Waterpark in Ottawa! Calypso is suitable for youngsters and adults, with more than 30 slides, two themed rivers and 100 water games. Brave the tallest waterslide tower in Canada, known as Summit Tower which stands at over 90 feet tall!

As you explore the east of the country, pack in as many thrill rides as you can and visit La Ronde , the largest theme park in Quebec. Thrill-seekers can get their adrenaline fix on the Boomerang roller coaster, Titan pendulum and Demon carousel to name but a few.

19 – Okanagan Valley

Does a trip filled with wine tastings, scenic vistas, and unique wildlife sound appealing?

Then add the Okanagan Valley to your travel list, one of the best places to visit in Canada for wine lovers.

Located in British Columbia, this picturesque and adventurous area boasts a variety of delightful festivals, plus great outdoor sports all year round.

Take a ride on the scenic Kettle Valley Steam Train, a historic vehicle that will take you through some of the best vistas in the valley.

Or traverse some of that same terrain on scenic trails.

And don’t miss the wonders of Osoyoos, the only desert in the entire country.

Keep an eye out for scorpions, rattlesnakes, and the Great Basin spadefoot toad, which only lives in this unique region.

Looking for a nice little spot to use as a homebase for all of these adventures?

Kelowna, a town of 143,000, combines nature and culture for a thriving city that is a wonderful vacation destination.

The vineyards in the area are top-notch, and you can book a variety of tours that combine delicious tasting sessions with great views of the surrounding land.

Try the West Kelowna Wine Trail, where you’ll move between five different wineries packed with unique history and irresistible beverages.

And each tour company offers its own unique spin on the trip; for instance, Metropolis Wine Tours invites guests to come in costume!

Once you’re done sampling wines, you can enjoy some of the many other amenities in town.

Stroll along Okanagan Lake, catch a show at the Kelowna Community Theater, tee off on the nearby golf courses, or stop by the many fine dining establishments in the area.

It’s the perfect place to stay and play while you explore the wonderful valley!

20 – Vancouver

As the biggest city on Canada’s west coast, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Vancouver .

Situated between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean, its natural beauty is perfectly complemented by its many cultural offerings.

Get a fantastic view of the city and the surrounding natural areas from the 550-foot Vancouver Lookout , or listen to an incredible program by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra.

Check out the latest programming at the Vancouver Convention Center, or try out the delicious, globally-inspired dishes in some of the city’s most beloved neighborhoods with a food tour.

Explore the city’s seedier past on a “forbidden walking tour,” or trek into the wilderness with a hike to Shannon Falls.

And don’t miss the chance to take a whale-watching cruise , where you can search for humpbacks, orcas, and gray whales, all in the company of a knowledgeable guide.

In addition to spotting these magnificent creatures in their native habitat, you may catch a glimpse of some of the other local animals, such as seals and porpoises.

There are endless options for an adventurous trip to the city, so start planning!

21 – Whitehorse

When you think of Canada, you probably picture snow-capped mountains, open spaces, outdoor adventures, and bracingly cold temperatures.

While Whitehorse doesn’t quite fit the bill, it comes pretty darn close!

Nestled up in the Yukon, this capital city is surrounded by strikingly rugged wilderness, and boasts a unique history of its own.

Head out into the forests and mountains to explore such classic routes as Spirit Canyon, with striking mountain views, beautiful wildflowers, and potential animal sightings all throughout the canyon.

Or head to the nearby rivers for some whitewater rafting, which combines thrilling rapids with breathtaking views of the rugged scenery. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you paddle!

And in the winter, you can ski, snowmobile, and even take a dog sled out into the beautiful snowy landscapes.

Winter is also the best time to catch a glimpse of the iconic Northern Lights dancing across the night sky, so bundle up and prepare to be dazzled!

Back in town, you can dive into the region’s history as a mining hub, as well as home to a variety of Indigenous cultures.

Be sure to check out the Kwanlin Dun Cultural Center to explore the stories of the area’s earliest residents, and the MacBride Museum of Yukon History, which features several artifacts from the Gold Rush era.

In recent years, Whitehorse has also become known as a creative hub, with a thriving theater scene, plenty of public artworks, and the beloved Arts In The Park concerts.

This is the town to see if you want a comprehensive Klondike experience!

22 – Winnipeg

Want to see a Shakespeare play performed in the ruins of an old monastery?

How about exploring the history of human rights movements across the world – and learning what you can do to help?

Maybe you’d rather meet some unusual animals, or search for clues to a centuries-old puzzle in the architecture of a political building.

All of those things – and many more exciting activities – await you in Winnipeg, the capital of the Manitoba province.

The city hums with creative energy, beautiful parks, and fascinating attractions that speak to its long cosmopolitan history.

Shakespeare in the Ruins is one of many beloved festivals that take place throughout the year, offering unique twists on the classic shows in a beautiful environment.

The Canadian Museum for Human Rights, with its distinctive architectural style and 11 exhibits themed around different struggles for peace, is a thought-provoking and powerful space to visit.

Assiniboine Park, which houses over 150 species at its renowned zoo, also features live music, a massive botanical garden, and beautiful sculptures for visitors to enjoy.

And with the Hermetic Code Tour of the Manitoba Legislative Building, you’ll spend time exploring the hidden symbols and codes that are tucked throughout the architecture.

These are just some of the many fascinating experiences that you can try in Winnipeg, so start exploring!

23 – Gros Morne National Park

You’d be forgiven for thinking that you’ve stumbled into Lord of the Rings when you visit Gros Morne National Park .

With soaring alpine mountains, fertile swampland, and sweeping fjords, it has the look and feel of a land out of time.

Spend some of your time exploring its trails and valleys, however, and you’re likely to fall in love.

Take a cruise through Western Brook Pond, where you can see the glacially influenced landscapes up close.

Hike through the striking, almost Martian environment of the Tablelands, where barren rock and bleached landscapes offer unique geological insights.

Or summit the challenging, beautiful, challenging Gros Morne Mountain (closed in the spring to protect breeding wildlife) and immerse yourself in the Arctic tundra landscape, taking in phenomenal views and chancing encounters with such dynamic residents as woodland caribou and Arctic hare.

This splendid park is an absolute must when visiting Newfoundland!

24 – Revelstoke

From its earliest days as a rambunctious railroad town Revelstoke has been beloved by visitors and residents alike.

It’s home to Mount Revelstoke National Park , which offers spectacular views and a variety of excellent runs for every ability level.

The ski resort is most famous for its massive vertical descent, which, at about 5,610 feet, is the longest drop in North America.

There are tons of other sports available in the region as well; bike along well-groomed trails, snowmobile through pristine powder, raft through wild rapids, or take a team of sled dogs out for a thrilling trek!

And for more outdoor attractions, Glacier National Park is just half an hour away.

Meanwhile, its downtown area features well-preserved historical buildings, fascinating museums, and a lively cultural scene.

Stroll past brightly colored Victorian houses, a Neoclassical-designed courthouse, and the town’s former Main Street on a Heritage Walking Tour, a self-guided journey through some of the town’s most interesting sites.

And in the evenings, dive into an active nightlife scene that offers everything from hockey games and stand-up comedy to live music and axe throwing!

For a mountain town with fun to spare, Revelstoke’s got you covered.

25 – Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

If you read a lot as a child, you may already be familiar with Charlottetown; it’s one of the many locales frequented by Anne Shirley (protagonist of Anne of Green Gables) and her friends.

But of course, Charlottetown has changed a lot since then, with beautiful beaches, a thriving theater scene, and some wonderful bars and restaurants to offer visitors.

You can also jam out to live music, learn how to eat oysters like a local, or hop aboard a pedal pub to sip tasty brews while enjoying a scenic trip past the waterfront.

And of course, if you do want to indulge your literary side, you can take a Green Gables Tour to see some of the sites around the island that inspired the books, or stop by the Anne of Green Gables Store to purchase some souvenirs, from snack foods to clothing to dolls.

This fun-loving city is a great homebase while you explore Prince Edward Island , and it offers plenty of delights of its own.

Final thoughts

Canada is the kind of place that could take a lifetime (or two) to fully experience.

It has some of the world’s greatest natural spaces, internationally renowned cities, and a whole host of small towns with hidden delights of their own.

While this list is by no means exhaustive, we hope that it helps you with planning your trip to this beautiful and dynamic country! Don’t hesitate to comment below and tell us what are your favorite places to visit in Canada.

Happy travels!

Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Canada

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

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

1. Yellowknife/Northwest Territories

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

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

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

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

My favorite highlights…

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

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2. The Rockies

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

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

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

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

My highlights…

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

3. Vancouver Island, Vancouver and the Johnstone Strait

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

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

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

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

My must-do highlights…

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

4. Lake Louise

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

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

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

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

My favourite highlights…

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

5. Churchill, Manitoba

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

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

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

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

6. On the trail of the Titanic in Nova Scotia

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

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

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

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

7. Niagara Falls

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

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

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

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

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

My highlights… 

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. The Bay of Fundy

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

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

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

10. Quebec City

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

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

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

11. Old Montreal

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

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

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

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

12. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, British Columbia

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

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

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

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

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

13. Whistler

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

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

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

14. Nahanni National Park Reserve

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

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

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

15. Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

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

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

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

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

16. Cape Spear

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

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

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

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

17. Lake Magog

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

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

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

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

18. Abraham Lake

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

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

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

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

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

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

19. Glacier National Park

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

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

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

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

20. Yoho National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gorgeous photos, makes me want to go to Canada!

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

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

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

Thanks for your comment Jessica!

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

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

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

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

Thanks Pixie!

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19 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ontario

Written by Lana Law Updated May 3, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lana Law grew up in Northwestern Ontario and currently lives in Southern Ontario.

Ontario is home to the nation's largest city, Toronto, and the capital city of Ottawa, but it also encompasses vast expanses of wilderness and pristine lakes and contains one of Canada's most visited natural attractions, Niagara Falls. This huge province, about 15 times larger than the state of Texas, offers boundless opportunities for travel, adventure, and family fun.

During the hot summer months , people visit Ontario to see some of Canada's top museums and galleries; spend family time at the amusement parks; relax at lakeside resorts; paddle or fish in the lakes and rivers; camp in the parks; and see some of the country's most iconic landmarks, like the CN Tower.

In winter , while some venture outdoors to enjoy the ski hills, skating rinks, snowmobiling, and winter festivals, most turn their attention indoors to hockey games, shopping, dining, Broadway shows, and other cultural attractions.

From small towns to big cities, this province can deliver whatever you're looking for in a vacation. Plan your trip and discover the best places to visit with our list of top tourist attractions in Ontario.

1. Niagara Falls

2. toronto's cn tower, 3. parliament hill in ottawa, 4. ontario's provincial and national parks, 5. royal ontario museum (rom), 6. canada's wonderland, 7. national gallery of canada, 8. toronto international film festival (tiff), 9. art gallery of ontario, 10. thousand islands, 11. fishing in northern ontario, 12. trent-severn waterway national historic site of canada, 13. muskoka and cottage country, 14. fort william historical park, 15. lake of the woods, 16. blue mountain resort, 17. stratford festival, 18. sainte-marie among the hurons, 19. rideau canal national historic site, map of tourist attractions in ontario.

Niagara Falls is Canada's most internationally recognized attraction, visited by millions of tourists each year. While there are actually three sets of falls, the largest section, known as Horseshoe Falls , drops approximately 57 meters, creating a great wall of water that stretches between Niagara Falls, Canada , and Niagara Falls, USA . The falls are famous primarily for the large volume of water flowing over them, but combined with the huge drop, they are truly a magnificent sight.

The falls are located right in the city of Niagara Falls, making them easy to visit. It's possible to walk down the main tourist strip in Niagara Falls, an outrageous spectacle in itself, to the edge of the gorge, where you'll find great views all along the walkway overlooking the river and the falls. Day trip tours can be easily arranged from hotels or hostels in Toronto. By car, the trip from Toronto takes about 1.5 hours.

The CN Tower is one of Canada's most iconic structures, standing tall along the Toronto skyline. The 553-meter tower is lit up at night and can be seen from all over the city and surroundings at any time of day or night, but visitors will likely want to take a trip up the tower to fully experience it.

An elevator allows access to the observation deck and restaurant , located about three-quarters of the way to the top. The view is astounding, looking out over the city and Lake Ontario. On clear days, it's possible to see all the way to the plume of mist rising off Niagara Falls . In the evening, looking out over the sparkling city lights is also an impressive sight.

Thrill seekers will want to give the EdgeWalk a try. Strapped in, you'll step outside the SkyPod, and spend 30 minutes strolling around the tower, 166 stories above the ground. It's not for the faint of heart or those afraid of heights but adrenaline junkies will be entirely in their element.

The tower is located in the heart of downtown Toronto, and at the base is the new Ripley's Aquarium and Rogers Centre , two of Toronto's top attractions .

Parliament Hill in the nation's capital is where most visitors begin their sightseeing in Ottawa . The buildings reside in a lovely setting on a rise above the Ottawa River. The Peace Tower is the most obvious and the most photographed structure, standing more than 90 meters high between the Senate and the House of Commons.

In front of the Parliament buildings is the Centennial Flame . During the summer, visitors can see the Changing of the Guard on the lawn in front of the Houses of Parliament, while those who are lucky enough to be visiting Ottawa on July 1 can enjoy some of the biggest Canada Day celebrations in the country.

Daily guided tours of the Parliament Buildings, including the Senate, House of Commons, and the East Block are available free of charge. Tickets are available same day, although it's strongly advised that you book well in advance online.

Ontario has many outstanding provincial and national parks that offer access to some of the most beautiful areas of the province. In these parks, you'll find Ontario's best lakes , where you can fish, swim, and go pleasure boating. If hitting the beach and laying in the sand is more your thing, the parks are also hot spots for Ontario's best beaches .

In Southern Ontario, just two hours from Toronto, Algonquin Provincial Park is one of the most popular parks and outdoor destinations, with an extensive network of hiking trails , and beautiful lakefront campgrounds . Further afield but equally beautiful, Killarney Provincial Park is another great area for hiking , canoeing, and camping .

On the shores of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay, Bruce Peninsula National Park offers its own attractions, and nearby but offshore, boaters and divers can find adventure exploring Georgian Bay Islands National Park and the Fathom Five National Marine Park .

You can also find history in some of the parks. The petroglyphs of Petroglyphs Provincial Park, just a short drive northeast of Peterborough, offer an easy and close-up look at an outstanding collection of 500 to 1,000-year-old Aboriginal rock carvings. Somewhat more difficult to access, but also impressive, are the pictographs that line the cliff walls on the shoreline of Lake Superior in Lake Superior Provincial Park .

Those who are looking for a truly remote experience will find invitingly pristine lakes and forests in Quetico Provincial Park in Northwestern Ontario. This is a popular area for backcountry canoe trips and fishing trips.

• Read More: Top-Rated Ontario Parks: Exploring Ontario's Great Outdoors

The Royal Ontario Museum in downtown Toronto is one of the premier museums in the province , featuring a broad range of collections, from natural history and science to cultural exhibits from around the world.

Commonly referred to as the ROM, this museum underwent an expansion in 2007, which saw the addition of a modern and unique extension known as the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal . The building is now a mix of old and new architecture with a striking appearance.

The Royal Ontario Museum is within walking distance of the fascinating Gardiner Museum and the tony shops of Bloor Avenue.

About 30 kilometers northwest of Toronto's city center is Canada's Wonderland , a huge theme park, which operates during the summer months . For local residents with kids, an annual visit to Canada's wonderland is one of the top things to do in summer. But, as Canada's premier amusement park, this attraction draws families from across the country.

Roller coasters and thrill rides for children of all ages, as well as a water park, dinosaur park, and live shows, are just some of the attractions. Canada's Wonderland is planning on opening two new rides in 2023: the Tundra Twister and Snoopy's Racing Railway .

Visiting Wonderland is an easy day trip from Toronto .

The National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa houses some of the country's most important collections. It contains a particularly strong selection of works by Canadian artists , from the Group of Seven to Emily Carr and many other famous names. The gallery also displays important pieces by well-known international artists.

The National Gallery building is housed in an ultra-modern architectural masterpiece designed by Moshe Safdie.

After you visit this fascinating museum, continue your museum tour by heading across the bridge to the Canadian Museum of History , or stroll over to the wonderful ByWard Market for a bite.

The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is the most famous event on Ontario's calendar, attracting some of the biggest movie stars across North America. This 10-day festival, held in early September in Toronto, is one of the best-attended film festivals in the world , with almost a half million visitors annually.

Tourists and locals descend on the city to watch a film or catch a glimpse of some of their favorite actors, and the city is a buzz of activity. At this time of year, the weather is still hot, and evenings are pleasant. The streets are full of people, restaurants are booked well in advance, and outdoor patios in the city are crowded until late at night. If you are visiting Toronto at this time of year, make sure you book your hotel and restaurants well in advance.

In downtown Toronto, the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of Canada's most prestigious art galleries. It hosts a particularly impressive collection of Canadian paintings with a focus on artists from Ontario and Toronto. It also holds Canada's largest collection of African and Oceanic Art displayed in a museum.

Other highlights include paintings and sculptures by European masters and Modern and Contemporary collections from North America and Europe. Temporary exhibitions are held throughout the year, check the AGO's website for the most current list.

Spread over an 80-kilometer stretch of the St. Lawrence River is a scenic natural area known as the Thousand Islands. The islands are on a granite shelf extending from the Canadian Shield to the Adirondack Mountains in the United States, with the US-Canada boundary actually running between the islands. It is one of the oldest and best-known holiday areas in Ontario , popular with cottagers, boaters, and those looking to get away from the cities of Southern Ontario during the hot summer months.

One of the most popular things to do in this area is a Thousand Islands Sunset Dinner Cruise through the maze of islands. Cruises run from mid-April to mid-October.

Gananoque is the principal resort town in the area and the main gateway to the Thousand Islands.

Northern Ontario is one of the best places in Canada for fishing. Walleye, pickerel, bass, northern pike, and muskies are some of the most sought-after catches, and people from all over North America come here to try their luck. And you don't have to be all that lucky if you know where to go.

Fishing lodges in Ontario range from luxury resorts to rustic cottages, but most offer everything you need to make your trip a success, including boats, guides, meals, and cabins. The best fishing is often found on remote northern lakes , and accessed by small float planes. Resorts either offer fly-in packages or, in some cases, boat pickup. You can also find a number of good drive-to resorts.

The historic Trent-Severn Canal, built in the late 1800s and early 1900s, is a system of waterways linking Lake Ontario with Georgian Bay on Lake Huron . The canal winds its way through a series of rivers and lakes, such as the Trent River and Lake Simcoe, in the east of Ontario. The changing levels are met with more than 40 locks, including the world's highest hoist , built in 1905 at Peterborough, covering a height of 20 meters.

In the past, the canal was mainly used for carrying grain and timber, but today, the Trent-Severn Waterway is a part of Parks Canada and is officially called the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site of Canada . It is used largely for tourism and recreational boaters. At some of the locks, there are camping facilities and grassy areas for picnics.

A great way to experience the Trent-Severn Waterway is on a Kawartha Voyageur Cruise. These multiday cruises allow you to see the sights and the locks at a leisurely pace, by basking on the sundeck or stopping at various ports,

One of Ontario's most famous summer hot spots is an area known as Cottage Country or Muskoka. Located north of Toronto, this region is centered around Lake Muskoka and a number of other popular lakes in the area.

Although you can find areas of equal beauty all over Ontario, this region's proximity to the city, just two to three hours from Toronto, has made it extremely popular. The lakes are surrounded by high-end cottages and summer homes of Torontonians. On weekends, the highways to Cottage Country are clogged with traffic as people flee the heat of the city, to relax around the lakes.

This is also a fun area to visit, with many people renting cottages here or staying at luxury resorts. There are a number of small communities in Cottage Country, although the primary town is Gravenhurst , located on the shores of Lake Muskoka. From here, visitors can hop on historical steamships for a short cruise and tour of the lake.

Fort William Historical Park is the reconstruction of the inland headquarters operated by the Northwest Company of the Canadian fur trade from 1803 to 1821. Situated on the banks of the Kaministiquia River in south Thunder Bay , the Fort comprises 57 buildings on 250 acres.

Each summer, fur traders, voyageurs, and first nations people would converge upon the Fort for the annual "rendezvous," which saw the transfer of tons of furs coming in from western posts with trade goods coming from Montreal, all conveyed by birch bark canoes within one season. This system enabled the Nor'Westers to emerge as a dominant force in the fur trade.

The Fort offers a fascinating looking at fur trade life, touching upon themes from furs and food to muskets and medicine, and highlighting a cultural mosaic of Scottish fur traders, French Canadian voyageurs, farmers and artisans, and aboriginals and Métis.

The park is not all about the fur trade, though. On the same grounds is the David Thompson Astronomical Observatory (DTAO) . The observatory is home to one of Canada's largest public telescopes.

To discover Ontario's remote wilderness landscapes, one of the best places to visit is Lake of the Woods and the surrounding areas. This huge body of water lies on the lightly populated provincial borders of Manitoba and Ontario and also dips into the state of Minnesota . This beautiful lake provides an incredibly scenic setting and pristine wilderness experience for those interested in venturing into the backcountry.

Many people have cottages on Lake of the Woods, but its distance from major cities and the size of the lake mean cottages are few and far between. It is also a prime destination for tourists who come to Canada to go on fishing trips .

Lake of the Woods provides excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and simply escaping into the Canadian wilderness . Islands fringe the heavily indented Canadian north shore, while the south shore is flat, sandy, and marshy in places. Beginning in 1688, the lake provided trappers and voyageurs with a passage westwards.

The main town on Lake of the Woods is Kenora , Ontario. This is where you can find lodging, plan charter flights, hire fishing guides, and get supplies.

Blue Mountain Resort , just outside the town of Collingwood , on the shores of Georgian Bay, is one of the most popular ski resorts in Ontario. Blue Mountain Village, at the base of the hill, features fine-dining restaurants, top-end shops, and first-class accommodations. The hill itself is family oriented and extremely popular with Torontonians.

The resort is open year-round and almost as busy in summer as it is in winter, with activities that range from rock climbing and ziplining to mountain biking and hiking.

William Shakespeare would be proud of the fine folks who live in Stratford who, each summer, put on an incredible internationally renowned summer festival celebrating his works. Stratford is just 60 kilometers northeast of London , Ontario, and draws particularly large crowds from the Toronto area.

The 2,250-seat Festival Theatre has been staging plays between May and October since 1953, with pride of place going to Shakespeare. There are now four theater venues, and plays by other famous writers, along with up-and-coming playwrights, are also presented. Most seasons, at least 12 productions are performed at the Stratford Festival .

The reconstruction of the mission station of Sainte-Marie among the Hurons is about five kilometers east of Midland on the Wye River. It was founded by the Jesuits in 1639 and served as a mainstay for 10 years for Europeans in "Wendat," the land of the Huron. As time went by, there was constant conflict with the Hurons, who were also decimated by diseases imported by the Europeans. In 1649, the Jesuits abandoned their settlement and returned to Québec.

The mission was reconstructed in the 1960s and was later designated a national monument. Today, it's open to visitors daily from May to October, and provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of the station and pioneer life in Canada.

Nearby and also worth visiting for more period history is Discovery Harbour. Here, you'll see two restored sailing ships: The H.M.S. Bee and the H.M.S. Tecumseth . In addition to the ships, historical maritime homes can be toured. These include the Sailor's Barracks, the Commander's Home, the Assistant Surgeon's House, the Surveyor's Home, the Keating House, and the Officer's Quarters.

One of Canada's most famous man-made waterways, the Rideau Canal is a must-see when visiting Ottawa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates from the early 19th century and has been meticulously maintained over the years and appears much as it did when it was first built.

Stroll along the pathways on either side and watch the boats pass through the locks. A popular thing to do in Ottawa is to take a Rideau Canal cruise . This 90-minute tour takes place on a 100 percent electric-powered passenger vessel and passes all the city's top sights, including the Château Laurier , National Arts Centre , and the Canadian Museum of Nature .

If you find yourself in Ottawa in the winter, be sure to rent some skates and try out the world's largest skating rink. Each winter, in January, the Rideau Canal is transformed into a 7.8-kilometer-long skating route. Along the way are warming huts and food vendors selling the iconic (and super tasty!) Beavertails.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Canada Adventures: Make Ontario part of your larger trip through Canada. For ideas on how to incorporate Ontario into your plans, see our Canadian itineraries . Another great resource is our list of best places to visit in Canada , which gives a good overview of cities and destinations across the country.

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The 18 best places to see the northern lights.

Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list.

The Best Places for the Northern Lights

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The northern lights, known as the aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light show visible at certain times of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. They occur when electrically charged particles from the sun collide with gases in the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant streaks of blue, green, pink and violet dancing across the night sky. 2024 and 2025 are an excellent time to catch the northern lights: Solar activity will be at a peak, making for a more impressive experience, if you're in the right place.

The best places to see the aurora borealis have little light pollution, clear skies and no precipitation. The lights are only visible at northern latitudes when it's dark outside, so the months from September to April are best for seeing the aurora. There's also a Southern Hemisphere counterpart, the aurora australis; there are fewer easy spots from which to view this phenomenon, but if you're lucky, it can be equally brilliant.

For more information on the northern lights, scroll down to the FAQ section at the bottom of this page. Read on to discover the top destinations where you can see the kaleidoscopic northern and southern lights.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks is by far one of the best places in the world to view the northern lights, as it's located directly under the auroral oval. This ring-shaped zone sits around the Earth's geomagnetic North Pole and is generally associated with the most vibrant aurora sightings. Visitors can expect to see the lights on an average of four out of five clear nights during aurora season, which lasts from late August to late April.

You can book a northern lights tour to see the aurora from the springs and tubs at Chena Hot Springs Resort. This excursion includes round-trip transportation to the resort from town, a soak in the hot springs, a visit to the Fairbanks Aurora Ice Museum and an aurora viewing tour; dinner and drinks centered around Alaska produce are an option extra with hot drinks supplied.

There's more to Fairbanks than just the northern lights: If you visit in late summer, consider family-friendly activities like a ride on the Riverboat Discovery or gold panning. For a festive holiday experience in the winter, head around 15 miles out of Fairbanks to visit the Santa Claus House in the city of North Pole. Travelers can also see ice sculptures in February and March at the impressive World Ice Art Championships or take a dog-sledding or snowmobiling tour .

Where to stay: For excellent chances of aurora viewing, book a private igloo at Borealis Basecamp, a top glamping resort located on 100 remote acres of boreal forest about 25 miles from Fairbanks. With activities like dog-sledding on top of aurora viewing, past visitors regularly describe it as a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Tromsø, Norway

Located about 220 miles above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø is one of several top spots to view the northern lights in Norway. At the darkest point of the aurora season – which runs from September to early April – the sun doesn't rise in this northern part of the country, although there is twilight during the day. With this level of darkness, there are more opportunities to see the aurora.

Tromsø itself is a small but lively city, so there's plenty to see and do when you're not looking up at the sky, including a visit to the beautiful Arctic Cathedral. In late January to early February, the city hosts the Northern Lights Festival, a 10-day music and performing arts event featuring a variety of musical genres.

Aurora chasers can view the lights on their own while in town, but to get a better view, it's recommended to head away from the city lights. Arctic Circle Tours is one company offering guided trips, with small groups for a more personal vibe. Alternatively, adventure-seekers can embark on an exhilarating husky trekking expedition in the Arctic wilderness.

Where to stay: For accommodations with harbor views, look no further than the Scandic Ishavshotel – guests love it for its convenient central location in the city, as well as its plus-sized breakfast buffet with plenty of choices.

Luosto and Rovaniemi (Lapland), Finland

Lapland is located within the Arctic Circle in the northernmost part of Finland. The northern lights are most visible here between the end of August and April – and approximately 200 times a year – so there are many opportunities for aurora spotting. Finnish Lapland is also known as home to the Sámi people (the only recognized Indigenous group in the European Union region), some 200,000 reindeer and Santa Claus – who can be visited in the town of Rovaniemi, the region's largest city and a great base for your aurora expedition.

Consider venturing roughly 70 miles north of Rovaniemi to the resort town of Luosto, set among the picturesque and hilly landscape of Pyhä-Luosto National Park. Here, you can also spend a magical evening outdoors under star-filled skies during a reindeer-drawn sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests. Jaakkola Reindeer Farm offers a reindeer sleigh tour to spot the aurora once weekly; it includes a stop to warm up at a bonfire camp with snacks, hot beverages and local fireside stories.

Where to stay: For a bucket list experience, watch the impressive light show from a glass igloo at Santa's Hotel Aurora & Igloos in Luosto. Past visitors love the cozy atmosphere here, boosted by amenities like saunas and log fireplaces. If you're sticking to Rovaniemi, the Arctic TreeHouse Hotel is a stunning choice, with designer cabins perched among the snow-covered taiga forest.

Orkney, Scotland

This group of captivating (and mostly uninhabited) islands, located about 10 miles off Scotland's remote northern coast, is one of the best places to see the northern nights in the U.K. Fall and winter are the best seasons to witness the aurora, also known in local Shetland dialect as the "Mirrie Dancers," with fall bringing the highest proportion of clear nights. A few places to see the spectacular light show include along the coast at Birsay or the Broch of Gurness, an archaeological ruin on a sweeping and dramatic coastline.

In addition to the aurora, Orkney is home to breathtaking coastal landscapes and more sheep than you can count (try some local lamb, if you can). Travelers can also visit the Heart of Neolithic Orkney, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with several monuments dating back 5,000 years.

Where to stay: During your visit, plan to stay in the historic town of Kirkwall, the capital of the Orkney Islands: The no-fuss Ayre Hotel offers harbor views, and past visitors compliment the hearty meals in the hotel restaurant. Spot the aurora close to town at Inganess Bay and Wideford Hill.

Yellowknife, Canada

Yellowknife, the capital of Canada 's Northwest Territories, dubs itself the "Aurora Capital of the World." Thanks to its position in the middle of the auroral oval, the city puts on one of the world's most awe-inspiring light shows. The period from mid-November to the beginning of April is the recommended time to spot the aurora, but it's also possible to see the aurora during more hospitable weather from late summer to early fall as the lights are visible up to 240 days a year.

Located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake, Yellowknife boasts winter sports such as ice fishing and cross-country skiing. If you visit in March, plan to attend the monthlong Snowkings' Winter Festival, which features events and activities like a snow-carving competition, a snow castle, live music and more.

For a unique experience, book a tour through Aurora Village to view the lights. The property will pick you up from your hotel and take you to its site, where you can stay warm in a tent while sipping hot beverages. The Aboriginal-owned Aurora Village also offers activities such as dog-sledding or snowshoeing excursions.

Where to stay: Warm up in the fireside lounge at The Explorer Hotel in Yellowknife. Previous visitors note the warm and helpful staff as a strength here.

Jukkasjärvi, Sweden

The optimal time for seeing the illuminated skies in the northern part of Sweden, known as Swedish Lapland, is between early September and late March. The small Swedish village of Jukkasjärvi sits around 125 miles above the Arctic Circle on the Torne River and is an ideal locale for aurora viewing. You'll fly to the nearby Kiruna Airport to get here. With the village's origins dating back to the 17th century, you can still find some of the original homesteads, including an old timber cottage. Today the village boasts 800 residents – and more than 1,000 dogs.

Where to stay: If you're up for a chilly overnight adventure, reserve accommodations at the world's first permanent ice hotel, the aptly named Icehotel 365. Each of its artist-designed suites is sculpted from ice with a unique theme and maintains temperatures around minus 5 degrees Celsius (about 23 degrees Fahrenheit). The rooms also feature beds with reindeer hides and thermal sleeping bags so you can bundle up during the night. While you're at the property, take advantage of the guided "Northern Lights Safari on Snowmobile" or embark on the "Moose Safari on Horseback" atop an Icelandic horse.

Reykjavik, Iceland

October through March is the best time to chase the aurora borealis in Iceland . There are numerous natural parks and attractions throughout the country where you can view the show during the long and dark winter, but the capital city of Reykjavik also offers many options for accommodations, restaurants, tours and other activities for your visit. For optimum aurora viewing in the city away from the light pollution, head to Öskjuhlið. This wooded and hilly area in Reykjavik sits at 200 feet above sea level and has walkways and paths where you can see the nighttime show.

Atop this hill sits Perlan, which houses the only planetarium in the country and a museum featuring exhibits about Iceland. Perlan is also home to the world's first indoor ice cave and glacier exploratorium. During your visit, don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the building's fourth-floor observation deck. From this vantage point, you'll be able to see the Snæfellsjökull glacier; Keilir, a volcanic mountain; and Esja, the mountain of Reykjavik.

Where to stay: While in Reykjavik, splurge on an overnight tour with Buubble Tours. This experience includes breathtaking sightseeing spots and a night spent under the magical northern skies in a transparent bubble at the 5 Million Star Hotel. For longer stays, consider the eco-friendly Eyja Guldsmeden Hotel, with sweeping views of the city – guests love it for its cozy yet chic Scandinavian design.

Southern Iceland

While Reykjavik is a great aurora-viewing spot if you like having amenities close by, consider getting out into Iceland's stunning, otherworldly countryside for a unique backdrop for the northern lights. One unique place to see them is the black sand beach at Reynisfjara (but watch out for the dangerous waves here). Alternatively, head to Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon and seal habitat, where the aurora's reflections in the icy water are truly beautiful.

There's no shortage of tours that will stop by these locations and more for possible aurora sightings. Consider a 10- or 13-day tour around the country with Fun Travel, or a four-day option from Arctic Adventures. If you want to do things at your own place, it's also possible to self-drive – just know that road conditions can be icy, particularly in the depths of winter (although Icelandic roads are generally well-maintained).

Where to stay: Hotel Rangá is a formidable option for aurora-spotting. It offers a variety of special amenities, such as aurora wake-up calls, a lookout deck and snowsuits to keep you warm if you're outside viewing the lights. Past visitors praise Rangá for being a comfortable yet luxurious place to relax, be it in the outdoor hot tubs or the cozy and sociable bar.

Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

Greenland may not be the most accessible place to travel for viewing the northern lights, with limited flight options (mostly via Iceland), but those who make it here will be thrilled they did. The tundra of Kalaallit Nunaat – the Greenlandic name for the country – is one of the best places on the globe to see the aurora from September to early April.

For the more adventurous aurora seekers, head to the top of the Greenland Ice Cap for spectacular views of the lights. This impressive glacier covers 80% of the country and is accessible via the tiny town of Kangerlussuaq. Located on a fjord right along the Arctic Circle, the town, often described as a gateway to Greenland, was a former U.S. Air Force base and is now home to Greenland's main airport. The town is known for having clear skies on some 300 nights per year, so chances of a sighting are particularly good here.

Tour company Guide to Greenland offers various tours, from two-hour aurora-viewing trips to a tough but rewarding multi-night dog-sledding expedition across the ice. For a less strenuous experience, companies like Nordic Saga Tours offer cruises through the Arctic landscapes around Kangerlussuaq.

Viking cruise along Norway's coast

Courtesy of Viking

Embrace the winter and set sail for the Arctic Circle to experience the aurora in northern Norway. The 13-day "In Search of the Northern Lights" cruise itinerary with Viking departs from London for the North Sea with stops in ports of call that are top aurora-viewing locales, including Tromsø, Alta and Narvik, plus a stop in Amsterdam en route. The cruise ends in Bergen, Norway.

While on land, take in the natural beauty of the snow-blanketed landscapes and book bucket list excursions like a night spent in an igloo or a reindeer sledding adventure. You can also chase the lights into the wilderness by snowmobile, take a dog sled ride under the stars or view them from a Sámi tent atop the mountain Pæska in Alta. This Viking Ocean Cruises itinerary is offered with departure dates from mid-January to mid-March.

Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Michigan

Regarded as one of the top spots in the U.S. to see the aurora outside Alaska, Headlands International Dark Sky Park sits at the top of Michigan 's lower peninsula, less than 5 miles from Mackinaw City. While the northern lights are less common here due to the relatively southern location, the best time to catch a glimpse of this phenomenon is typically during the spring and fall – and appearances can usually be predicted a couple of days in advance. The park even maintains an online Clear Sky Chart so you can check the weather forecast before you go.

There are also other stargazing opportunities throughout the year at Headlands. During the summer months the Milky Way is visible across the sky, and late summer evenings entertain visitors with meteor showers.

Where to stay: If you're visiting between late April and the end of October, splurge on a stay at Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island, where the aurora should also be visible. Guests describe this iconic property situated along the shoreline of Lake Huron as positively charming, thanks to its historic nature and manicured grounds. The resort also offers a host of outdoor activities from bike rentals to swimming.

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Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Martha Shuff | Courtesy of Voyageurs National Park

Located on the international border between Minnesota and Ontario, Voyageurs National Park is an approximately 218,000-acre labyrinth of boreal forests, lakes and streams. Voyageurs is Minnesota's only national park; it's also unique in that the park's interior is accessible only by boat, unless you visit by snowmobile in winter. As a certified International Dark Sky Park , Voyageurs provides opportunities to view the Milky Way on clear evenings, especially in the summer. Year-round aurora viewing is also possible on evenings with clear dark skies, but chances are better during the winter, when it's dark for longer.

For a guided stargazing tour – including the Milky Way, the constellations and (if you're lucky) the northern lights – book with Voyageurs Outfitters. If you're on your own, park officials note that almost any campsite is a good spot for northern lights viewing and stargazing. You can also check out the boat launch areas around Ash River, Kabetogama Lake and the Rainy Lake Visitor Center for top-notch views.

Where to stay: Those who prefer to sleep in a warm, cozy bed instead of camping under the stars can make reservations at the Cantilever Distillery + Hotel, a boutique Trademark Collection by Wyndham property in the nearby town of Ranier, Minnesota. Visitors report that there's a lot to like here, from the industrial-chic rooms to friendly staff to top-notch cocktails in the active distillery on the premises.

Abisko National Park, Sweden

Given its Arctic location, Sweden is one of the prime spots for aurora viewing in the Northern Hemisphere, with Swedish Lapland at the top of the list. The fall and winter months (from September to March) offer the best opportunities to witness the spectacle, as there is more darkness than light during the days.

If you're up for the Arctic adventure, December is an ideal month to visit Abisko National Park, which some regard as one of the best places on Earth to see the lights dance across the sky. The park's mountainous terrain and clear dark skies offer dramatic front-row seats for viewing the northern lights. The Aurora Sky Station is one of the best vantage points to see the aurora in the park. Join one of the expert presentations to learn about the science behind this fascinating phenomenon.

If you'd prefer to chase the lights with a curated tour, professional photographers and aurora-chasing guides at Visit Abisko lead three- to four-hour tours throughout the fall and winter. If you can, try to join the tours in fall, as this time of year offers a unique opportunity to view the lights both in the sky and reflected in the lakes and rivers, which you won't see in the winter months.

Where to stay: For cozy Nordic vibes, stay at Abisko Mountain Lodge, which also offers activities like ice climbing and snowmobile tours in winter. Guests love the excellent restaurant here, which offers Swedish specialties ranging from salmon to moose.

Nellim, Finland

Courtesy of Wilderness Hotels

Located a stone's throw from the Russian border in Finnish Lapland, this remote Arctic destination is a top-rated locale to view the northern lights due to the lack of light pollution. You'll be seriously out of the way of any built-up areas, as there's not even a paved road into Nellim. The best time to visit is between December and early April. This village is a great place to hunker down in a lodge and relax while enjoying a slice of life in the Finnish wilderness.

Where to stay: The Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers a perfect base with year-round activities, including aurora-chasing tours by car, snowmobile or on snowshoes. You can even take a sleigh ride through the snow to a campsite on Lake Inari to spot the aurora in pristine nature.

Beyond standard rooms, the Wilderness Hotel also offers glass-roofed cabins, as well as classic log cabins and bubble-shaped accommodations for two where guests can watch the dancing lights through the glass roof above your warm, cozy bed. When you're not chasing the lights, enjoy other Arctic activities like a husky safari, ice fishing, snowmobiling or a day in the snow meeting the local reindeer.

Saariselkä and Kakslauttanen, Finland

These two towns are around 150 miles above the Arctic Circle, with a prime location under the auroral oval, allowing as many as 200 opportunities per year to see the northern lights (weather permitting, of course). This area in Finnish Lapland is known for its stunning scenery, Sámi culture, cross-country and downhill skiing, and Urho Kekkonen National Park – one of Finland's largest.

Ski enthusiasts can roll two trips into one by hitting the slopes by day in Saariselkä and aurora spotting by night at Finland's northernmost ski resort. March into early April is the best time to view the aurora, as the Finnish Meteorological Institute notes that the weather is usually clearer at this time of year. But it's possible to see the northern lights at any time during the season from late August to early or mid-April.

Where to stay: Seven miles south of Saariselkä sits the village of Kakslauttanen, where you can book two- or four-person Glass Igloos at the Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort. The new Kelo-Glass Igloos, which sleep up to six, mix the comforts of a log chalet with the visibility of the glass roof; enjoy a private sauna, a fireplace and more. There's also an impressive selection of year-round tours and activities at this resort, including northern lights excursions on snowmobiles or by horse-drawn carriage.

Stewart Island, New Zealand

Courtesy of RealNZ

Although they may be isolated, some far-south destinations offer the chance to see the aurora australis – or southern lights. While you might be able to see them year-round in some locations (just as with the northern lights), certain months are better for aurora viewing in the Southern Hemisphere. Stewart Island is regarded as one of the top spots to see the brilliant display in New Zealand , with 85% of the island encompassed by Rakiura National Park, so there are few people and virtually no light pollution. You can reach Stewart Island by flying in from Invercargill or taking a ferry from Bluff.

New Zealand's winter months – June to August – are the best time to see the southern lights; spring and fall are also not bad times to spot them. The brighter summer months, between December and February, make it more difficult to spot the aurora, but there's still a chance you'll catch a glimpse between midnight and 4 a.m.

Where to stay: Consider reserving a room with at Stewart Island Lodge, an intimate bed-and-breakfast. This beautiful property is just minutes by foot from the village of Oban, and the property will pick you up at the ferry terminal for your stay. Past visitors rave about the spectacular views of Halfmoon Bay and the Foveaux Strait from both the rooms and lodge terrace.

Tasmania sits approximately 150 miles south of mainland Australia. This mountainous island is one of relatively few places on the planet where it's theoretically possible to see the aurora 365 days a year due to its latitude, which allows for full darkness even on summer nights. The capital city of Hobart is the easiest point of entry: It's home to Tasmania's largest airport and serves as a convenient base. The city's burgeoning food and cultural scenes will also give you plenty to see and do.

From here you'll be able to reach several great viewing locations with unobstructed and open views of the sea along the southern and southeast coastlines, like Goat Bluff and Tinderbox Bay. When you're not staring at the night sky, splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter flight with Tasmanian Air Tours. Depending on your whims, your private pilot can whisk you away to soar over the sea cliffs; stop at a local winery to sample local vintages; or head south to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Port Arthur , Tasmania 's historic and most notorious prison.

Where to stay: Reserve accommodations at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart. The historic luxury property is situated along the lively waterfront area with harbor views. Past guests admired the historic building housing the hotel and loved the heritage rooms featuring gas fireplaces for those cold Tasmanian nights.

Expedition cruise to Antarctica

If you're one of the lucky few people on the planet to travel to the southernmost continent on Earth, it may be pricey, but you'll have an adventure of a lifetime in Antarctica, especially if the aurora illuminates the sky. The southern lights are most visible in the winter months (between March and October), but due to weather conditions, only researchers brave the Antarctic winter – and they mostly stay indoors.

However, all hope is not lost if you seek to view the aurora australis in Antarctica. Late-season expedition cruises to this continent offered in March also bring the opportunity to view the southern lights and enjoy the end of Antarctica's fleeting summer. As the days shorten in length, you may encounter light snow across the extreme landscape and ice starting to form on the water's surface.

When it comes to wildlife viewing, humpback whale sightings are abundant, and you'll still see penguin colonies – including king and gentoo penguins. You can also keep your eyes peeled for elephant seals, leopard seals, wandering albatross and other species of birds. When night falls on clear evenings, look for the light show in the southern sky. Companies that offer March voyages include Swoop Antarctica, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Silversea Cruises , Aurora Expeditions and Hurtigruten Expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

There's no one location that's widely accepted as the best place to see the northern lights. However, the strongest light displays are within what's called the "auroral oval": a rough circle around the Earth's magnetic northern pole that tends to occur around 60 to 70 degrees of latitude. The oval's exact size expands and contracts (some more southerly destinations can fall under it when the aurora is particularly strong), but there are certain locations that generally fall within the oval most of the time.

These places include:

• Central and northern Alaska
• Large areas of Yukon, the Northwest Territories and northern Quebec in Canada
• Southern Greenland
• Far northern Norway, Sweden and Finland

Within these areas, it could be argued that Iceland is the best place to see the aurora as it experiences much milder temperatures than some other areas within the oval. But this is subjective, and some travelers may prefer a location like Yellowknife in Canada for a full-on, very cold Arctic experience.

The northern lights are only visible when it's dark out. Since many of the best places to see them are so far north that they experience near-constant daylight in the summer, you'll generally want to schedule a trip between late August and early April. However, within this time period, there's some debate about the best time to catch the lights. For example, the aurora tends to be more active around the September and March equinoxes due to stronger solar winds – but on the other hand, your chances of seeing them may be higher in the depths of winter, since there's longer nights and therefore a longer window in which they might appear.

In more southern locations like Minnesota, it may be possible to see the light show in the summer months, but it's still advisable to go at a time when the nights are longer. It can also be worth trying to schedule your northern lights trip when there's a new moon: While the aurora can shine through moonlight, it may be harder to see if there's a full moon.

Of course, cloudy weather can block the aurora even if you go at the right time of year. So, it may be wise to research the local weather patterns at your chosen destination to find out if there's a month where you can expect clearer skies. In many cases, though, there's a little luck involved.

These two countries can offer excellent views of the northern lights, since both are directly under the typical auroral oval. Yet there are some differences to be aware of.

In Norway, you'll need to head to the north of the country to catch the aurora: While they have been sighted in Oslo , the capital and largest city, it's too far south to be a reliable vantage point. Cities like Tromsø are popular spots, but direct flights there are only possible from some European cities, so North Americans will have to take connecting flights. On the other hand, Iceland is generally easier to reach, with direct flights to its capital, Reykjavik, from a large number of U.S. destinations (particularly from the East Coast) with no further connection required.

Since clear skies are key for seeing the northern lights, weather is another factor to consider. In November, December and March, Reykjavik has statistically slightly more frequent clear skies, while in January and February, Tromsø is a little better, but the difference isn't big: Both places have clear skies only around 25 to 30% of the time in these months. Reykjavik has slightly warmer weather, though, so between that and the ease of access, it has a slight edge over Norway for seeing the northern lights.

Alaska and Iceland are known for stellar aurora light shows, so deciding between them may depend on which destination you find more convenient and more to your tastes. In Alaska , the city of Fairbanks is considered a great spot to catch the northern lights. (They can still be seen elsewhere in the state – for example, in Anchorage, although they're not so common in more southern locations like Juneau). The advantage of Fairbanks is that you won't need a passport , yet there aren't many direct flights from the lower 48 states. Despite being an international destination, Iceland may be more accessible (particularly from the eastern U.S.), thanks to fairly regular flights to Reykjavik from numerous American cities.

Fairbanks does offer statistically better weather for aurora viewing: It has clear skies more often than Reykjavik, particularly in March when the Alaska city experiences them around 45% of the time (compared to about 25% for Reykjavik). But you'll have to be able to tolerate the cold. While temperatures in Reykjavik hover around freezing in midwinter, Fairbanks is a veritable deep freeze, with average highs around 5 degrees Fahrenheit down to lows colder than minus 5 in December.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Timothy Forster , as a Canadian who has traveled from coast to coast in that sprawling country, knows all about travel in the cold northern reaches of the world. Forster used his extensive traveling background along with research expertise to curate this article.

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Most Beautiful Landscapes in the World

Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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