summer travel ideas canada

15 Best Places to Visit During The Summer Vacations in Canada

Canada is a great destination for a summer vacation given its pristine landscapes, diverse cities and range of multigenerational entertainment. Its top attractions include national parks, beaches, zoos and aquariums, museums, amusement parks, and even rodeos.

Many people visit Canada during the winter to ski and take part in other fun winter activities. Yet, when summer arrives, Canada has even more to offer. It has warm temperatures, charming cities, and incredible outdoor recreation. Are you wondering about the best summer destinations in Canada ? Don't worry! Canadian Train Vacations is here to help you. Our travel experts can help you plan the best Canada summer vacations , arranging transport, hotels and excursions.

Waterfront towns amid natural landscapes are among the best places for a summer vacation in Canada . They offer breathtaking natural landscapes and a variety of land and water activities. Ample daylight in summer also means abundant opportunities to pull out your camera and take stunning photos . For a more urban vacation, s ummer is an ideal time to visit the country's cities, with their cultural attractions, including summer festivals.

Canada is a fantastic place to visit any time of year, but it's especially welcoming in summer. Here are some of the best places to vacation in Canada in summer .

1. Cape Breton Island

During a summer vacation in Canada on Cape Breton Island, you'll enjoy the coastal life, eat fresh seafood, and admire the scenery. The Cabot Trail is an excellent place to view the ocean and spend some time outdoors. Guided bicycle tours are another enjoyable way to explore this area. You can also see the area's natural wildlife on a guided boat cruise to observe the bird and whale populations. Condé Nast Traveler readers named Cape Breton the best island in North America.

One of the best ways to experience Cape Breton is on a Canadian Train Vacation, as many excursions leave from Halifax. To get to Cape Breton Island, one can take the Canso Causeway from mainland Nova Scotia, a Marine Atlantic ferry from Newfoundland, or fly into J.A. Douglas McCurdy Airport, Sydney. Maritime Bus provides service to Whycocomagh, North Sydney, Port Hawkesbury, and Baddeck from the mainland.

2. Victoria

Victoria is on magnificent Vancouver Island, British Columbia, is one of the best summer vacation places in Canada. This coastal city can only be reached by ferry or plane. The capital of British Columbia, it is ideal for foodies and those looking for exciting cultural experiences. It is known as "the Garden City" because of its many well-kept green spaces, such as the massive Beacon Hill Park.

Visit the Butterfly Gardens, where kids can interact with geckos, tropical birds, flamingos, and hundreds of free-flying butterflies. Take a stroll down Johnson Street and do some window shopping. Summer festivals abound in this city, including a beer fest, a vegan festival, and a Fringe festival. With its oceanside location, Victoria is home to some amazing whale-watching tours.

This place also has historic buildings. Climb the 87 steps to the top of Craigdarroch Castle's Tower for the best view in Victoria. It has Canada's oldest lighthouse on the West Coast.

3. Saskatoon

While coastal havens in Canada almost always get all the recognition, Saskatoon in the prairies is also worth visiting. With its city-meets-country vibe, Saskatoon is the ultimate spot for the urban-but-outdoorsy family. Foodies love this area due to the many local farms that provide natural foods and homegrown goods, especially berries in the summer.

Visit the Western Development Museum to learn about pioneer life and enjoy a ride on the Prairie Lily riverboat to view the sights. This area is also home to Grasslands National Park, a popular destination for family holidays. You can travel to Saskatchewan by road, plane, ferry, rail, or bus. Make a point of visiting this location during the summer.

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4. niagara falls.

Summer is a great time to visit the dazzling Niagara Falls — every traveler's bucket list should include a visit to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. The combined flow rate of the three waterfalls (Bridal Veil Falls, American Falls, and Horseshoe Falls) is the highest of any North American waterfall. The SkyWheel, water cruises, the casino, and other popular attractions in Niagara Falls provide chances for romance or family fun.

Niagara Falls can be seen in various ways thanks to diverse activities. You can see the gushing waterfalls from every angle imaginable, from helicopter tours and underground mazes to boat rides. There are also many wineries in the area to visit.

Niagara Falls is a 1.5-hour drive from Toronto along the QEW highway.

5. Prince Edward Island

If you ask a Canadian what are the best places to vacation in Canada in the summer, they will probably say Prince Edward Island. Walking along the red sand beaches, with their unique old lighthouses, you'll feel like you've stepped into a postcard. The gorgeous Cavendish Beach on Prince Edward Island is yet another popular summer destination in Canada. You can go clam digging or take part in a lobster dinner.

You can also take a walking tour of Charlottetown, where guides dressed in period costumes will offer you a history lesson on this Canadian city. Another cultural activity is going to a production of "Anne of Green Gables," the long-running musical at the local arts festival.

Popular outdoor activities on this Island include kayaking, golf, standup paddle boarding, and parasailing.

There are three options for getting to Prince Edward Island. You can drive across the Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick, take a ferry from Nova Scotia, or fly into Charlottetown Airport.

6. Alaska Highway, Yukon

This summer, take a trip along the Alaska Highway through the Yukon for a faraway and wild Canadian adventure. This long stretch of road, also known as the ALCAN Highway, connects the United States to Alaska, passing via Yukon and British Columbia along the way. It's a memorable scenic drive filled with hot springs, small towns, mountain ranges, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

There are numerous breathtaking views of high mountains and massive ice fields along the way. You can go mountaineering here, explore the vast ice fields, and take a flightseeing trip to view the ice fields below.

Tofino is another popular summer destination in British Columbia, and it's a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. This West Coast destination has something for everyone, whether you're looking for sand dollars on the beach, want to hike old-growth rainforest in Pacific Rim National Park, try catching a wave on a surfboard, rest in the hot springs cove, go whale watching, or join a bear-watching boat tour.

It's also fun to kayak in the Clayoquot Sound, go deep-sea fishing, and visit the Tofino Botanical Garden in this part of Canada. Tofino is a beautiful place to visit, with charming inns and campgrounds if you want to rough it. It's one of the best summer vacation places in Canada.

Halifax, in Nova Scotia, is jam-packed with family-friendly activities. When you take a trip to Halifax in the summer, you can enjoy spectacular water views, plenty of local history stories, and delicious seafood. Take the view from Citadel Hill, where actors dressed in costumes will give you a history lesson.

Also, public gardens are nearby, which are ideal for a summer picnic. Stroll down the boardwalk for a scenic view of the water and let the kids play in the ship-themed playground. The Discovery Centre, Nova Scotia's only hands-on science centre, will also appeal to children. Trips to Peggy's Cove are widely known among visitors to experience the picturesque neighborhood along the rocky coastline with its iconic lighthouse and the fishing village culture.

If you want to enjoy some delicious lobster, crab, and fish dishes, go to Salt Shaker Deli in Lunenburg, a World Heritage Site, about an hour and a half outside Halifax. You can travel to Halifax by air, ferry, cruise, or land.

9. Whistler

Although most people associate Whistler with the famous ski resort, it is also an excellent summer destination. Whistler, located in British Columbia in the Coast Mountains two hours north of Vancouver, provides a genuine Canadian west-coast mountain encounter.

Whistler has it all for nature lovers. At the base of the Blackcomb Mountains, there is a family adventure zone. You can hike the Valley Trail, spot bears, and even raft the Cheakamus River in this Pacific Coast Mountain location. There's hiking, mountain biking, zip-lining, horseback riding, jet boating, and canoeing — plenty to keep you busy. When it's time to unwind, take a break from the adventure and head lakeside to sandy beaches with concession stands, play areas, and BBQs. Whistler Village offers a vibrant night life, with restaurants, pubs and dancing.

To reach here, fly into a primary airport such as Seattle (SEA), Vancouver International (YVR), or Bellingham (BLI), then transfer to Whistler.

10. Quebec City

Quebec City, the capital of Quebec, is one of North America's oldest cities, founded in 1608 by a French explorer. It is famous for its walled Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The downtown area maintains a charming vintage vibe thanks to majestic architecture and cobbled streets.

The castle-like Chateau de Frontenac and the charming buildings of the Old City boast a European charm. The city still proudly wears its French heritage on its sleeve today, as evidenced by impressive architecture such as Place Royale and the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church, which houses the Saint Geneviève chapel.

City parks, such as the Plains of Abraham, are nearby and ideal for a scenic picnic. Away from the city, numerous hiking trails lead through lush pastures with stunning cliffs overlooking the Saint Lawrence River. At the Aquarium du Québec, you can interact with polar bears, seals, and walruses. You also can devote the day to The Baie de Beauport, the city's beach. Prepare to be captivated by Canada's French capital.

11. Alberta Badlands

The Alberta Canadian Badlands, which include Dinosaur Park, is a one-of-a-kind destination in Canada. There have been numerous discoveries of dinosaur bones here, helping to make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Badlands Trail provides excellent views of unusual rock structures, such as hoodoos and pinnacles. To learn about dinosaurs, visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum, which is filled with profound dinosaur skeleton exhibits.

The Canadian Badlands are a 35,000-square-mile area unlike anywhere else on the planet. Horseshoe Canyon, antiquity pictograph and petroglyph engravings, and sandstone boulders are also must-sees in the area.

12. Montreal

Art and culture are abundant in Montreal in Quebec, another popular summer destination in Canada. When the weather is nice, this bilingual city has plenty of festivals, culinary events, and restaurants with outdoor seating to visit. Meanwhile, music lovers can attend the International Jazz Festival and other local music events.

You can also visit famous sites such as Notre Dame, the Montreal Biodome, and Mount Royal. Visiting Montreal is an excellent way to get a taste of Europe without needing to travel there. Make a pit stop at Atwater Market for some gelato. Montréal is reachable by plane (via the Montréal-Trudeau International Airport), car, train, boat, and bus.

13. Fundy National Park

Summer days are spent at Fundy National Park, where visitors enjoy a pristine coastline and the world's highest tides.

This New Brunswick park offers a taste of Atlantic Canadian culture and numerous outdoor activities, such as kayaking at low tide and yurt camping. While in the area, you should also visit the Kouchibouguac National Park, Fort Beauséjour - Fort Cumberland National Historic Site, Carleton Martello Tower National Historic Site, and Andrew's Blockhouse National Historic Site.

Fundy National Park is situated on provincial Highway 114 near Alma, New Brunswick. There is no direct public transportation to or from the park, so you must drive here.

14. Toronto

Toronto is a famous vacation destination all year, but it's a must in the summer if you like festivals, concerts, and sporting events. Toronto combines urban and beach bum vibes, and there's even a neighborhood east of the city called 'The Beaches,' with four beaches to choose from. Summer markets in Toronto offer farm-fresh produce and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Throughout the summer, Toronto comes alive with various events, such as Blue Jays home games and food festivals. The Bruce Trail is one of many excellent places for hiking, and Niagara Parks is ideal for biking. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates easy-to-navigate the city's subways, buses, and streetcars.

15. Jasper National Park

Jasper is a relaxed mountain town that serves as a great foundation for discovering the Canadian Rockies, with easy access to stunning mountains and alpine lakes. Views abound as hikers travel from Mount Edith Cavell's peaks to Maligne Canyon's caverns. Hike to Pyramid Lake, kayak Lake Edith or Lake Annette, or take a boat tour through Maligne Canyon. With over 2.7 million acres to explore, visitors can see wildlife from caribou to wolverines to moose.

The Icefields Parkway, southeast of Jasper, should be on everyone's bucket list with its dramatic views of several glaciers.

The Via Rail train service can take you to the town of Jasper. Jasper does not have a public transportation system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where should i go for a summer vacation in canada.

Tofino, Cape Breton, Prince Edward Island and Toronto are some of best place to vacation in Canada in the summer.

What is the prettiest place in Canada?

Alberta offers the most distinct natural landscapes in Canada, with Rocky Mountain and rolling grasslands, dry badlands, and vast swaths of boreal woodland. The province is also home to two of Canada's most famous national parks, which include beautiful lakes and glaciers.

Which destination is best for a summer vacation in Canada?

Muskoka is Ontario's beautiful cottage country, with its lakes, rivers, and forests. It's easily one of Canada's best summer vacation spots and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

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The Best Vacation Destinations For Families In Canada This Summer

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Plan your next epic getaway to some of the best vacation destinations for families in Canada this summer! From the natural beauty of Alberta to the culture, history, and art in Quebec, this North American country is vast and full of adventures for all ages. Of course, with stunning lakes, sandy beaches, and national parks across Canada, there are plenty of ways to soak up the sunshine. Whether you want to visit Vancouver and bike through Stanley Park or tackle Canada’s eastern provinces, like Nova Scotia, this list of the best vacation destinations for families in Canada this summer has it all, from picturesque locations on the East Coast to lush forests in the West. Keep reading to learn more!

Also Read: All About Whistler With Kids: Important Information To Know

Best Summer Vacation Destinations in British Columbia for Families

British Columbia is a province in Western Canada known for its beautiful mountains, forests, and lakes. From the Rocky Mountains in the east to the Pacific Coast in the west, this province is one of the best vacation destinations for families in Canada this summer.

With major cities such as Vancouver, cozy mountain towns like Whistler, and remote nature-focused destinations such as Kootenay National Park, British Columbia also provides a perfect mixture of rest and recreation. Vancouver Island, Tsawwassen Beach, and Burrowing Owl Sanctuary are just a few of its great destinations for families. Stay tuned to find out more, including plenty of Canada vacation ideas for families ! 

Vancouver is a great city to visit at any time of year, but it’s especially beautiful in the summer. There are many activities the whole family can enjoy together here! Start by renting bikes and riding around Stanley Park . Then, visit English Bay Beach to play volleyball or Kits Beach for sunbathing. Families can also pick their own berries at Krause Berry Farm , walk across Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , or visit the Vancouver Art Gallery . Additional family-friendly museums include H.R. MacMillan Space Centre , Science World , and Vancouver Maritime Museum .

As one of the best vacation spots in Canada , Vancouver is also known for its summer night markets featuring Asian cuisine, like the Richmond Night Market . Or, head to Granville Island for great food, shopping, and plenty of kids’ activities too. Need to get out of the city? About an hour from downtown, Golden Ears Provincial Park is a beautiful spot to relax with kids on the beach with mountain views. If you’re visiting Vancouver in June or July, stick around for special events like Canada Day or the Vancouver Jazz Festival . Certainly, Vancouver should top your list for Canada vacation ideas .

Reserve your tickets for the Capilano Suspension Bridge and the Vancouver Maritime Museum here with Viator! Tickets are discounted with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance .

Stanley Park 

Requiring a spot of its own on this list, Stanley Park is an urban park in Vancouver spanning approximately 1,000 acres! Featuring English-style gardens, towering trees, and beautiful sculptures, this is a must-see while you’re in town. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the scenery in the park. Hike the trails near Beaver Lake . Or, a bike and riding along the Seawall , from Coal Harbour to the Lost Lagoon.

Families can also spend a day at the beach in Stanley Park . Try Third Beach , secluded and perfect for watching the sunset, or the family-friendly Second Beach, featuring a playground. Kids will love learning about and seeing the First Nations’ story poles at Brockton Point . Plus, don’t forget to leave time for the Vancouver Aquarium and a ride on the miniature train. 

Reserve this popular Stanley Park Bike Tour through Viator. Viator offers cancellation up to 24 hours!

Whistler 

Whistler is a beautiful place for any family to visit in the summer. Though it’s located in the mountains and known for skiing, there are many attractions to soak up the warm weather, from hiking to biking. First, families can ride the Peak2Peak Gondola for amazing views of Whistler Village, its surrounding lakes, forests, etc. To see the scenery on foot, hike the easy Rainbow Falls Trail or the Ancient Cedars Trail to spot wildlife.

Of course, families can also take advantage of the weather at Alta Lake . Here, enjoy a sandy beach, children’s play structure, and water sports rentals. Then, at Meadow Park , children will love the Whistler Water Park , a fun splash park for all ages! Certainly, this is one of the best destinations in Canada for summer vacation .

Reserve various tours of Whistler here through Getyourguide.com!

Kootenay National Park 

Kootenay National Park is a quintessential Canadian destination for families. Spanning the Canadian Rockies, the park contains scenic mountains, gorgeous glaciers, and pristine lakes. It’s also home to around 180 bird species, as well as grizzly and black bears. When families want to visit in the summer, drive through The Banff-Windermere Highway , which also connects to Banff National Park.

For hiking, try the Stanley Glacier Trail with kids. Or, the trail along Marble Canyon , which takes you across seven different bridges and to the edge of the canyon. Camping is also popular throughout the three different campsites. Soak and relax at the RadiumHot Springs after your adventure.

Alert Bay 

Alert Bay is a small fishing village in British Columbia, located on the northeast tip of Vancouver Island on Cormorant Island. Its coastal beauty also makes it a perfect destination for families to explore in the summer and enjoy Island time. Visitors have access to a wide range of activities such as hiking, biking, and summer program activities. Visit  Alert Bay Ecological Park  to hike the scenic  Alert Bay Ecological Trails  or the 16 km of trails throughout the Island. Seasmoke Whale Watching provides a wonderful way to sightsee and spot wildlife. To learn more about the history of the island and its culture, visit the U’mista Cultural Centre and Alert Bay Library-Museum. Then, grab a great cup of coffee at Culture Shock!  For more information please check out the Alert Bay Visitor Centre . 

Sproat Lake Provincial Park

If you’re looking for the best vacation destinations for families in Canada this summer, check out the Sproat Lake Provincial Park near Port Alberni, British Columbia. With its coastal setting, families can go fishing, water skiing, and even windsurfing when the weather is right.

Most of the family fun happens on Sproat Lake. However, there are also a few trails surrounding the lake with beautiful scenery. You can even pass ancient petroglyphs named K’ak’awin, which resemble an ancient sea monster once said to have haunted the lake. Kids will definitely want to hear more about this spooky history! Camping is another popular activity here.

Sea to Sky Highway

Officially known as Highway 99, the Sea To Sky Highway is a legendary drive running from Vancouver to Pemberton, just north of Whistler. Spanning the Pacific Coast, the highway has stunning views of Howe Sound. Plus, it is home to many restaurants, shops, and more. Starting from Vancouver, families can head north to travel through amazing mountains and first-rate lakes.

Along the way, you’ll pass famous attractions such as Porteau Cove Provincial Park , a popular scuba diving destination. Not to mention, Shannon Falls Provincial Park , Brandywine Falls Provincial Park , and Mount Garibaldi. Feel free to stop wherever interests you, as you’ll see plenty of scenic hikes, breweries, and other points of interest. Don’t miss a ride on the Sea to Sky Gondola!

Reserve various Sea to Sky Highway Tours and Tickets here through Viator!

Best Summer Vacation Destinations in Alberta for Families

Alberta’s heritage and natural beauty make it a great place to visit during the summer with kids. As one of the best vacation destinations for families in Canada this summer , you can explore the region’s history by visiting one of the many national parks. Jasper National Park , known for its glaciers, wildlife, and mountain scenery is a great option. Or, check out the world’s largest geyser field, Banff National Park. Plus, with cities like Calgary steeped in Western history, there are plenty of opportunities to learn more about local culture, as well as delicious restaurants. Stay tuned for the best vacation destinations for families in Canada this summer! 

Banff National Park 

Banff National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in Canada. Located near Calgary, it’s a popular summer destination. Expect an abundance of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, canoeing, and fishing. There are also plenty of opportunities to see wildlife and take scenic tours of the glacial lakes, geysers, and cascading waterfalls. Kids will love trying to spot grizzly bears, lynx, elk, and bighorn sheep!

As one of the best vacation spots in Canada , planning ahead is essential. Some popular destinations like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are accessible only by transit or shuttle. Book before leaving home. Kid-friendly hikes include the  Moraine Lake Rockpile and Johnston Canyon Lower Falls . You can also try the Peyto Lake Panorama Viewpoint. Families can also bike, take a scenic drive, or go canoeing and kayaking on Lake Louise. Regardless of where you are traveling from, this is one of the best Canada vacation ideas with kids!

Book your tour in Banff National Park here with Getyourguide.com!

Calgary is one of the best summer destinations to visit in Canada as a family . From museums to shops, hiking, and more, the city has many points of interest for families. Start by getting a panoramic view from the Calgary Tower . Then, say hi to penguins, gorillas, and more animals at The Wilder Institute, Calgary Zoo . Families who want to soak up the sun and enjoy the outdoors can spend an afternoon exploring the trails at Prince’s Island Park .

Families also like visiting WinSport , a complex offering mountain biking, skating, and even kids’ summer camps. Not to mention, WinSport was home to the 1988 Winter Olympics! Kids looking for a thrill will love all the exciting amusement rides at Calaway Park! To learn more about Calgary, visit the Glenbow Museum , Heritage Park , or The Hangar Flight Museum. With so much to do, no wonder Calgary is one of the best vacation spots in Canada . Final tip, Calgary tends to fill up quickly during the Calgary Stampede , check the dates before making your arrangements – or to plan to attend!

Reserve your Calgary tours and tickets through Getyourguide.com now!

Note: The Glenbow Museum is currently under a multi-year renovation, but there is a temporary exhibit location in The Edison building.

Jasper National Park

Filled with lush forests, wobbly waterfalls, and the majestic Rocky Mountains, Jasper National Park is one of Canada’s most beautiful summer destinations. In addition to the natural beauty, it has plenty of things to do as a family. Enjoy everything from hiking to mountain biking, paddling, fishing, and so much more. From downtown Jasper, families can make the scenic drive to Maligne Lake , a remote area with lots of wildlife. For a better view, you can take a Maligne Lake Cruise and tour the area. Another popular summer activity in Jasper National Park is river rafting on the Athabasca River or seeing the Athabasca Glacier. For an easy hike with amazing views, try the Valley Of The Five Lakes Trail. 

Once you’re done visiting Jasper National Park, one of the best vacation destinations for families in Canada this summer , explore the nearby town of Jasper. Known for its farm-to-table restaurants, boutiques, and local charm, it’s the perfect place to spend the day as a family. Families can also try activities near Jasper, like riding the Jasper Skytram , the highest aerial tramway in Canada. No wonder this is one of the best vacation destinations for families in Canada this summer! 

Use Viator to book discounted tickets to the Jasper Sky T ram and other Jasper National Park tours here !

Drumheller Badlands

Families with aspiring paleontologists need to add the Drumheller Badlands to their list! Located in Alberta (and within 90 minutes of Calgary), Drumheller is a small city that will capture the imagination of all ages. Like the Badlands of South Dakota, the Canadian Badlands are stunning, featuring canyons, hoodoos, and other unique rock formations. Plus, Drumheller is the Dinosaur Capital of the World !

The charming downtown area has fully embraced its dinosaur theme. In fact, kids will adore climbing the 106 stairs up to the mouth of the dinosaur! Here, you’ll have a beautiful view of the whole city. While visiting, drive the Dinosaur Trail , visit The Royal Tyrrell Museum  (with 800 fossils on permanent display), and soak in the views from the Orkney Viewpoint . Then, families can trek along Horseshoe Canyon and Horsethief Canyon . You can also traverse the Hoodoo Trail , explore the historic ghost town of Wayne, and hike amongst the iconic Hoodoos. Finally, further out of town you can also treat kids to a visit to Dinosaur Provincial Park , featuring one of the best fossil areas in the world (58 dinosaur species have been discovered here!). Certainly, those seeking adventure will find the Drumheller Badlands to be one of the best vacation destinations for families in Canada this summer! 

Best Summer Vacation Destinations in Ontario for Families

Located in eastern-central Canada, Ontario borders the Great Lakes Region, making it a favorite destination for water sports, hikes, and more summer fun. There are many parks, waterfalls, and natural sites in the area, plus various theme parks. No wonder it’s one of the best destinations for a summer vacation in Canada with kids! Next time you want to visit Ontario, we’ve compiled the best vacation destinations for families in Canada this summer! 

Note : If you are planning to visit parks and campsites in Ontario, we highly recommend making advance reservations due to capacity issues at the parks (particularly popular ones like Algonquin Provincial Park) – even for day visits. Some campsites may be hard to book as they book months in advance. You can  review your options and make bookings at these 33 parks ! 

Algonquin Provincial Park 

Algonquin Provincial Park is perfect for a summer vacation in Canada as a family. Home to numerous lakes, forests, and rivers, the park is well-known for its rugged, rocky terrain. There are also different campsites, hiking trails, and beaches for visitors to explore. Some popular destinations include Cache Lake and Mizzy Lake, accessible via the Mizzy Lake Trail. Though it’s a bit steeper, the Lookout Trail also rewards hikers with fantastic views. Or, visit Canisbay Lake or Canoe Lake for swimming and canoeing in crystal clear waters! To learn more about the history of the park, kids will love the hands-on exhibits at the Algonquin Logging Museum or taking a boat tour in search of wildlife. 

Camping in the Algonquin Provincial Park is another wonderful way to experience nature. After all, it’s one of the best vacation destinations for families in Canada this summer ! There are over 1,800 camping sites in the park, which are close to lakes, streams, and hiking trails. Some of the best campsites are on Mazinaw Lake , which is known for its clear waters. Campers can enjoy swimming, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and biking with their family throughout their stay at the park.

Choose an Algonquin Provincial Park tour through Viator here!

Pukaskwa National Park

Pukaskwa National Park is one of the best vacation destinations for families in Canada this summer. Famous for its pristine wilderness, rolling hills, and majestic cliffs, there are so many things to do with kids. Go for a scenic drive, hike, or try fishing on Lake Superior! Families can also hike the Southern Headland Trail for panoramic views of Hattie Cove, Pulpwood Harbour, and Horseshoe Bay. Or, hike the Beach Trail to head to Middle Beach to cool off in the water. Hattie Cove is perfect for paddling or canoeing. End your day by watching the sunset at Horseshoe Beach , featuring soft sand and relaxing nature. This park often takes more than one day to see, so camping is popular. 

Niagara-On-The-Lake 

Niagara on the Lake is a picturesque town in southern Ontario. Overlooking the shores of Lake Ontario, it offers beautifully landscaped gardens, great food, and plenty of outdoor activities to do with your family. Soak up the sun at Queen’s Royal Beach, located along the Niagara River. Or, take a boat tour on the river with Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours .

As one of the best destinations in Canada for summer vacation , Niagara on the Lake is also home to historic sites, like Fort Niagara and Fort George National Historic Site . Of course, don’t forget to explore the historic downtown district. Here, you’ll find Queen Street, lined with beautiful flowers and 19th-century buildings. Parents will also appreciate all the wineries and vineyards. Don’t forget to catch a show at the Shaw Festival Theater!

Niagara Falls boasts picturesque beauty, interesting history, and family-friendly activities. Crossing over into Canada provides an even better view of the three falls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. With Journey Behind the Falls , a panoramic observation deck, you can even get near Horseshoe Falls !

Of course, when the weather is nice, families can take a break from the hustle and bustle by visiting Queen Victoria Park . Kids will love strolling through the manicured gardens that run the length of the Rainbow Bridge past Horseshoe Falls. Kids can also have fun at Clifton Hill Amusements , WildPlay , or ride the Niagara Skywheel! Summer is also a wonderful time to venture to Dufferin Islands , home to birds and other wildlife. With so much to offer, you will quickly see why Niagra Falls ranks as one of the best destinations in Canada for summer vacation .

Choose these popular Niagara Falls tours and book through Viator here!

Enjoy a fun vacation with the whole family in Muskoka! Just two hours from Toronto, this summer destination is home to Lake Muskoka. Here, embark on boat tours, go canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding, and more, there are plenty of chances to cool off in the water. From the Dorset Heritage Museum to the Little Norway Memorial , there are also various historical and cultural sites.

Adventurous kids will especially love soaring through the treetops with Muskoka Zip Lines & Aerial Park or Treetop Trekking ! Plus, don’t miss the exciting rides at nearby Santa’s Village Theme Park , a Christmas-themed amusement park opening in May! 

Best Summer Vacation Destinations in Quebec for Families

Quebec, Canada is a province that offers many beautiful summer destinations. From Iles-de-la-Madeleine near the Gulf of Saint Lawrence to Mont-Tremblant, and, of course, Montreal, it’s a popular destination for history, culture, hiking, and so much more. Next time you want to explore Quebec as a family, keep reading for the best vacation destinations for families in Canada this summer! 

Jacques Cartier National Park 

As one of the best destinations in Canada for summer vacation, Jacques Cartier National Park is an incredible place to visit as a family. Located north of Quebec City, it has great hiking trails, rare wildlife, picnic areas, and campgrounds. In the summer, families can canoe down the Jacques-Cartier River, try kayaking, go biking, and hike. One easy trail even young kids will enjoy is Les Cascades Trail , located beside a cascading stream. Fishing can also be fun for everyone and you never know what you’ll catch here! With the park’s abundance of wildlife, bird watching is another awesome experience to teach young kids about different types of birds. 

Taste some of the best cuisines at ​​ Our Favorite Restaurants and Activities In Montreal That Families Will Love ! 

Looking for one of the best cities to visit in Canada with kids? Enjoy a trip to Montreal, showcasing a European ambiance, charming cobblestone streets, and lots of history and culture. Summer weather is perfect for exploring the quaint streets of Old Montreal . Then visit the Old Port to ride La Grande Roue de Montréal .

Families who want to enjoy the sunshine can pack a picnic lunch and head to Parc du Mont-Royal . This park features beautiful views, trails, and a lake with boat rentals. Kids will love the amusement rides at La Ronde . Not to mention, roaming around the Jardin Botanique de Montréal , and seeing the massive murals in Le Plateau. Then, Parc Aquazilla , located in Parc Jean-Drapeau , is a giant inflatable obstacle course that kids will love (age 6+)! With so much to do for families, no wonder Montreal is one of the best vacation spots in Canada .

Planning a trip to Montreal? Check out these 19 Best Things To Do In Montreal With Kids (All Ages) ! 

Choose Montreal tours from Viator! Reserve now, and pay later!

Mont-Tremblant

Mont-Tremblant is one of the best cities to visit in Canada with kids. Set within the Laurentian Mountains, it’s also home to the year-round Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort and Lake Tremblant. A lot of tourists choose to visit here in the summer to enjoy the stunning scenery.

From biking to hiking, horseback riding, and the Night Walk  Tonga Lumina , there are plenty of adventures for all ages. Ride the panoramic gondola up the mountain. Or, go ziplining at the Mont-Tremblant Activities Center . Your family can descend through the forest on the skyline luge. Then, kids can ascend the climbing tower to overlook the landscape! Plus, there are  many other activities such as mini-golf, birds of prey show, euro-bungy , and more! Plus, families can also enjoy swimming, boating, volleyball, and other summer activities on Lake Tremblant . Finally, you can also visit Brind’O Aquaclub , the resort’s on-site water park. 

Best Summer Vacation Destinations in the Atlantic Canada Region for Families

Those seeking Canada vacation ideas will love their choices on the Eastern coast. Along the Atlantic shore of Canada, families will find four more provinces worth visiting. Here, explore Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. Their proximity to one another also makes for fun road trip combinations to some of the best vacation destinations for families in Canada this summer !

One of the most beautiful places in Canada is Nova Scotia . The landscape ranges from mountains and hills to forests, and there are also plenty of lakes, as well as waterfalls, beaches, and rivers. Then, New Brunswick offers family-friendly options from Gagetown to the Bay of Fundy, The Gaspé Peninsula, and more. On Prince Edward Island , discover literary attractions, singing sand beaches, and a lot of Scottish and Acadian history. While Newfoundland and Labrador offer striking natural beauty and Norse legends. No wonder these provinces are among the best places to visit in Canada during the summer with kids!

Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

Cape Breton Island is one of the best places to visit in Canada during the summer . From golfing to hiking, this Nova Scotia destination is famous for its breathtaking scenery, rich history, and fascinating culture. See some of the best views in Canada on the Cabot Trail , a loop route encompassing the northwest part of the island that winds its way through verdant forests and rugged coastlines. The drive maneuvers in and out of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park , whose Skyline Trail footpath overlooks the Gulf of St. Lawrence, known for its migratory whales. Kayak with Cabot Trail Adventures or visit the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site for a dose of history. Then, explore the town of Sydney, where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and the Big Fiddle , a giant fiddle statue paying tribute to the island’s Celtic heritage! 

Discover Cabot Trail through these tours with Viator!

Fundy National Park, New Brunswick

One of Atlantic Canada’s most beautiful destinations, Fundy National Park in the southeast corner of New Brunswick is one of the wettest places on Earth. With over 40,000 square kilometers of wetlands and forests, hiking trails take visitors through this lush environment to the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Fundy with its unique tides. You will quickly see why this ranks as one of the best places to visit in Canada during the summer with kids .

Easy trails like the Dickson Falls Trail provide views of cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and various wildlife. Kids will love the variety of wildlife throughout the park, including moose, muskrat, beavers, and black bears. For a guided walk, families can also explore the ocean floor with the help of a naturalist , where you’ll discover barnacles, rock crabs, dog whelk sea snails, and other crustaceans.

Prince Edward Island

Located in Canada’s Atlantic region, Prince Edward Island is well-known for its sandy beaches, beautiful ocean views, and historical sites. It also has a strong agricultural industry which invites visitors to see how farm animals are raised. People who love fishing can try their luck in North Rustico, which also has great beaches.

At Prince Edward Island National Park, families can enjoy sandy beaches, red cliffs, and dunes. Or, try your luck at hearing the singing sands at Basin Head Provincial Park . Cavendish is a resort municipality famous for its miles of pristine shoreline, plus the annual Cavendish Beach Music Festival in July. Cavendish is also home to The Green Gables Heritage Place , based on Lucy Maud Montgomery’s novel Anne of Green Gables . Once you visit, you’ll understand why it’s Canada’s most famous literary landmark! 

Newfoundland and Labrador

Newfoundland and Labrador, located in the easternmost part of the country, offers beautiful places to visit in Canada in the summer. Find many secluded beaches, as well as hiking trails, lighthouses, and fishing villages. Kids will love seeing how the Vikings lived at the L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site , a thousand-year-old Norse settlement. Don’t forget to visit Gros Morne National Park , known for its glacial fjords, and St. John’s , the capital city. Labrador is more of a rural province with rolling hills and apple orchards. Tourist attractions include the Torngat Mountains, National Park , which takes its name from the Inuit phrase “place of the spirits.” We suggest exploring with a guide for the best experience! 

Reserve Newfoundland and Labrador tours here through Viator!

Happy Travels!

We hope you found this list of the Best Vacation Destinations For Families In Canada This Summer helpful in planning your own Canadian adventures with kids! Between centuries of history, gorgeous scenery, and lots of outdoor fun for families, there’s no better place to take advantage of the warm weather. Enjoy these best places to visit in Canada during the summer with kids !

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

From cobblestone streets in the charming Old Town to bohemian shops in Le Plateau, there’s enough to keep all ages Read more

Any traveling family will love all these things to do in Montreal with kids! As a multicultural city with European Read more

We took our family to Montreal and ate our way through the city, while enjoying a wide variety of activities. Read more

A charming ski village in British Columbia, Whistler is known for its scenic views, abundant outdoor activities, and unique history. Read more

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

Apr 11, 2024 • 10 min read

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

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

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

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

Best for diversity

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

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

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

2. The Canadian Rockies 

Best for mountain views

The sawtooth, snow-topped mountains straddling the British Columbia — Alberta border inspire both awe and action. Five national parks – Banff, Yoho, Kootenay, Waterton Lakes and Jasper – offer countless opportunities to delve into the lush wilderness with ribbons of hiking trails , rushing whitewater and powdery ski slopes to satisfy travelers looking for mountain thrills. 

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

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

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

3. Manitoulin Island

Best for Canada’s First Nations culture

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

4. Vancouver 

Best for urban life with access to nature

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

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

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

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

5. Baffin Island

Best for Inuit art and incredible landscapes

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

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

6. Vancouver Island 

Best for nature, surf beaches and boutique food ventures

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

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

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

Find out how to see Canada by train.

7. Whistler 

Best for skiing, mountain biking or summer paddle-boarding

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

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

8. Old Québec City

Best place to visit in Canada for romantics

Québec’s capital is more than 400 years old, and its stone walls, spired cathedrals and jazz-filled cafes suffuse it with atmosphere, romance, melancholy, eccentricity and intrigue on par with any European city. The best way to soak it all up is to walk the old town’s labyrinth of lanes and get lost amid the street performers and cozy inns, stopping every so often for a café au lait and flaky pastry.

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

9. Montréal

Best for music lovers 

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

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

10. Rideau Canal

Best for ice skating

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

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

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

11. The Prairies

Best for big-sky road trips

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

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

12. Niagara Falls

Best for an iconic travel experience

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

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

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

13. Bay of Fundy

Best place to spot whales

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

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

14. Churchill

Best for polar bear encounters

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

15. Drumheller

Best for dinosaur enthusiasts

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

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

This article was first published July 2021 and updated April 2024

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8 Great Places Across Canada to Visit This Summer

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

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

Photo by Tobias Negele/Shutterstock

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

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

1. Prince Edward Island

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

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

Where to stay

• Book now: The Great George

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

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

Courtesy of Travel Manitoba

2. Churchill, Manitoba

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

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

• Book now: Lazy Bear Lodge

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

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

Photo by Rita Petcu/Shutterstock

3. Métis Crossing, Alberta

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

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

• Book now: The Lodge at Métis Crossing

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

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

Photo by Russ Heinl/Shutterstock

4. Halifax, Nova Scotia

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

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

• Book now: Muir Halifax

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

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

Photo by Nick Hawkins/Tourism New Brunswick

5. The Fundy Trail Parkway, New Brunswick

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

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

• Book now: Beach Street Inn

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

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

Photo by Alex Gorey/Unsplash

6. Kootenay Rockies, British Columbia

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

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

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

• Book now: Heather Mountain Lodge ; Purcell Mountain Lodge

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

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

Photo by Edward Koorey/Unsplash

7. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

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

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

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

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

The sweeping landscapes of Kamouraska are in eastern Quebec.

Photo by darengd/Unsplash

8. Bas St. Laurent, Quebec

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

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

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

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

• Book now: Auberge du Portage

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

Avid adventurer, travel blogger, and experience seeker. Starting each morning with a desire to see the world through a different lens.

27 Incredible Places to Visit in Canada This Summer

Canada is filled with incredible places to visit during the summer, ranging from stunning beaches, soaring mountains, beautiful parks, and so much more. With the warm summer weather, outdoor travels are an absolute must. If you’re from Canada, you’ll know the summer passes way too quickly. Before you know it, it will be snowing again! Take advantage of the season and visit some incredible places the country has to offer.

With so many wonderful summer destinations, it can certainly be challenging to decide where to go! And so, a group of travel bloggers has come together to recommend their favourite places to visit in Canada this summer. Surely, they will inspire you to add more places to your bucket list!

Continue reading to discover the best places in Canada to visit this summer!

**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my link, I will receive a small commission at no cost to you.

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Places to Visit in the West Coast of Canada in Summer

Recommended by Daniel of Destinationless Travel 

When it comes to epic summer destinations in Canada few are as popular or well known as Whistler. Although famous for world-class skiing,  Whistler is home to a huge range of bucket list things to do  in the summer too.

For many, your days will be spent at one of the lakes around town. The most popular for a beach day is Lost Lake where you’ll find crowds of people of all ages relaxing at the beach. Take a walk around the lake and take a plunge off the floating jetty or take a paddleboard and explore. Regardless it’s a fun day out.

For the adrenaline junkies, you simply have to get yourself a day pass on the gondola and try some downhill mountain biking. The trails here are epic and even the most experience can find one to test their skills. Of course, if you have no experience you can still give it a go, or, take a ride on one of the many trails around town. Just head to a bike rental store, grab a bike and a map and explore.

After all the riding it’s likely you’ll be thirsty and hungry. A favorite spot of mine is Whistler Brewing . The brewery is located a short drive from the center of town and they brew some delicious Canadian craft beer. The brewery also has a hearty menu with lots of pub classics. My favorite though? The bigger than your face nachos. Seriously it’s huge and will easily feed two people.

The above activities really stick to a typical budget in Whistler, however for those who want to spoil themselves a floatplane tour around the mountains is a must. This unique experience has you taking off and landing in lakes all while enjoying a classic scenic flight with breathtaking views.

With the above activities and so much more it’s no wonder people love Whistler in summer! 

Where to Stay in Whistler:

• One of the top-rated and fancy places to stay in Whistler is the Westin Resort & Spa . It’s perfect for a weekend getaway!
• For a stunning boutique hotel experience with colourful rooms, check out Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel .
• For more places to stay in Whistler, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Bowen Island

Recommended by Dean and Laynni of Routinely Nomadic

While Canada has plenty of winter attractions, it really comes to life in summer. And what better place to visit on a balmy summer day than a gorgeous island just off the Pacific Coast? Little Bowen Island meets all the requirements for a perfect day trip (or longer if you have the time) – spectacular scenery, a convenient location by car or public transport, beaches, hikes, water sports, and a great selection of shops, restaurants and bars, most of which are found right in  beautiful Snug Cove .

Located just a 20-minute ferry ride across from Vancouver’s Horseshoe Bay terminal , Bowen Island is particularly popular with hikers. This lush island is laced with nice hiking trails, many of which start right at the harbour. Iconic Mount Gardner is accessed via several different trails and provides incredible scenic lookouts of the mainland (on a clear day, all the way to Mount Baker), Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast and the Pebble Beach Sea Walk is a pleasant stroll with amazing views and a cute little lighthouse at the end. Also, if you ask around near Snug Cove a local might help you find the famous Driftwood Mastodon. Then, once you’ve worn yourself out, you can choose from a number of cozy beaches.

Tacos, hot dogs, and ice cream are among the favourite choices along the pleasant harbour and there are many interesting shops and galleries for those looking for a memento of their time on Bowen. Whether you are looking to get active or just soak in some island ambiance, Bowen Island is a great choice.

Where to Stay on Bowen Island:

• A popular place to stay on Bowen Island is Gibsons Garden Hotel . It is located nearby Sunshine Coast Museum and Gibsons Marina.
• The Bonniebrook Lodge boasts a colourful exterior and cozy rooms to enjoy.
• For more places to stay on Bowen Island, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Wells Gray Provincial Park

Recommended by Debbie of WorldAdventurists.com

One of the best places to visit in British Columbia, Canada during the summer is the waterfall paradise of  Wells Gray Provincial Park . There is so much beauty to be found in its dramatic peaks, alpine meadows, and clear lakes. With 41 named waterfalls and 5000km² of the mostly untouched Canadian wilderness, Wells Gray Park is an outdoor lover’s paradise.

Several of the waterfalls are accessible with a short walk or hike from the parking lot. The most popular falls are Helmcken Falls, Spahat Falls, Moul Falls, and Dawson Falls. Helmcken Falls is the fourth largest waterfall in Canada and its power and beauty will take your breath away. You can walk behind Moul Falls and feel the power of mother nature.

Wells Gray is also home to the most easily accessible alpine meadow in British Columbia, through the Trophy Mountain trail. You can also join a wilderness safari, take an aerial tour , enjoy the beauty of boating on Clearwater Lake, or take a refreshing dip in a clear lake on a hot summer day.

The best way to experience the beauty of Wells Gray Provincial Park is by camping. If you are not the camping type, you will also find several lodges nearby for a more luxurious stay.

When you witness the power of nature at Wells Gray, you cannot help but feel an overwhelming sense of wonder.

Where to Stay Near Wells Gray:

• To best experience the beauty of the park, book a camping site . Then, you’ll wake up super close to the trails!
• For a beautiful cabin stay, Wolfwood Guest Ranch is a great option. The cabins are definitely charming!
• For more places to stay near Wells Gray, check out Expedia.ca , Booking.com , or VRBO .

Recommended by Luke of Wild About BC

The town of Squamish, an hour north of Vancouver on the west coast of Canada, is the ultimate outdoor playground. It seems that everybody here spends their days outside exploring the amazing places right on their doorstep. In the summer months, Squamish is buzzing with people who are all eager to get out and hike, rock climb, windsurf, mountain bike, camp and so much more.  

Squamish is located along the Sea to Sky Highway , between Vancouver and Whistler, and is nestled in amongst spectacular mountain ranges at the end of Howe Sound. It is a beautiful part of the world and is an epic place to get out and explore. There are some iconic hikes here, the most popular of which is the Stawamus Chief Trail . A short but steep hike will take you to the top of the cliffs overlooking Squamish town where you will get jaw-dropping views out over Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains.

It doesn’t really matter what activity you are into, as Squamish is pretty much guaranteed to offer it and there are few places that are this beautiful for you to enjoy spending time outdoors in the summer. As everything is located so close to the town centre you can finish off your day with some food and drinks on one of the many sunny patios in town. The perfect end to a summer’s day.

Where to Stay in Squamish:

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The Best Things to Do in Canada

How to Enjoy the Summer in Canada

August 30, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey Leave a Comment

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Last updated: September 1, 2020

Summer in Canada might be short, but it’s also incredibly beautiful. Whether you’re looking to get outdoors or explore one of Canada’s world-class cities, the summer is the most comfortable time to visit. Summer in Canada is also the most popular time to visit, not only due to the pleasant weather but also due to the wide range of activities, including city tours, water sports, hiking, road trips and more.

However, this also means that summer in Canada is the busiest time to visit. Even though winter in Canada is remarkably beautiful, it’s also a much more difficult time to visit, due to the cold weather and the slippery roads. Most tourists visit during the summer to avoid the harsh weather and enjoy the super long days of a Canadian summer. This means that accommodation prices are often higher, tourist attractions are busier, and costs are generally more expensive all across the board.

Either way, a summer in Canada should not be missed. Whether it’s kayaking one of our millions of lakes, exploring our vibrant downtown cores, or simply enjoying a bright sunny day that doesn’t end until close to midnight, there’s a reason why both Canadians and visitors can’t wait for the warmer months to arrive.

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What’s the Weather like During Summer in Canada?

Officially, the summer in Canada runs from June 20th – September 22nd, but how warm it is will largely depend on where and when.

Depending where you go, it can be very hot. Canada is a land of weather extremes. Whereas the winter in Canada can be as cold as -40 Celcius, the summers can be as hot as +40 degrees Celcius. Some of the hottest regions around Canada include interior British Columbia, southern Alberta, and even major cities such as Winnipeg, Toronto, and Montreal. Coastal cities, such as Victoria and Halifax, are often milder in all seasons, which make them popular places to visit for those who don’t like high heat. Generally speaking, summers in Canada are either warm or hot.

The hottest cities would be places like Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Winnipeg, Calgary, and Vancouver. The prairies, such as southern Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba can be very hot in the peak summer months, whereas southern BC, such as Kelowna and Osoyoos, are some of the hottest regions in the country. In fact, they’re deserts! At the same time, the weather can fluctuate immensely on a day-to-day basis. Living in Calgary, I’ve seen 38 degrees Celcius one week and just 15 degrees Celcius the next week. But if you truly prefer milder climate, you’d probably prefer coastal cities such as Victoria, Halifax, and St. John’s – just to name a few.

One of the nice things about visiting Canada in the summer versus the winter is that you don’t need to prepare nearly as much. In the winter, you really need to make sure you have very warm clothing when exploring the outdoors, and when it comes to road trips, you need to be prepared to drive over snow and ice. The summers, however, are similar to everywhere else. Many days you’ll be able to get by with shorts and a t-shirt, but you’ll always want to have at least one sweater and some sort of jacket and/or rain jacket.

Canada is a massive country, so in terms of the best preparation, you’ll need to decide where you’re going first. The summer weather in the Yukon will be quite different than the summer weather in Ontario. Both will be nice but Ontario will certainly be hotter.

What are the Most Popular Summer Activities?

For those into the outdoors, summer is the best time to visit Canada. With the weather at its best, there’s a lot of outdoor activities going on, whether it’s hiking in the mountains or paddling around a lake. However, it’s also a great time to visit cities as there’s much more life in the summer with people walking around, many festivals, and more.

Home to more wilderness than practically anywhere else in the world, it’s no secret that Canada is a prime place for hiking. From coast to coast to coast, there are so many opportunities, including rugged coastal hikes, epic mountain hikes, incredible forest hikes, and so much more. You can hike in the badlands of Saskatchewan or hike to the summit of one of the Rocky Mountains . No matter what province you visit, there’s a hike worth doing.

Paddle Sports on the Water

With more water than any other country on Earth (we have 70% of the world’s freshwater and more coastline than any other country), there’s no shortage of opportunities for paddling, whether it’s canoeing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. Each and every province and territory has options for paddling. If it’s the ocean you’re looking for, you’ll want to go to British Columbia, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, or Newfoundland. If its lakes, all provinces will have a plethora of opportunities. If you want to paddle around tall mountain peaks, head to western Alberta or the eastern side of BC where you’ll find the Canadian Rockies.

Just like paddling, there are many opportunities for getting out on a motorized boat as well, whether its in the ocean or on a massive lake. Whether you’re looking to rent your own or go on a tour, there are all sorts of possibilities across the country. Some examples include sailing in Nova Scotia, taking a cruise near Quebec City, and taking a boat tour on Okanagan Lake . These are just three of the hundreds of fun boating opportunities available.

Another popular way to enjoy Canadian water is to go white water rafting on one of the many incredible rivers across the country. We’ve done a fair share of rafting ourselves, including the Kicking Horse River in BC, the Bow River and Kananaskis River in Alberta, the Ottawa River in Ontario , and the Shubenacadie River in Nova Scotia . This is an exhilarating way to get outdoors and enjoy the natural scenery.

Whale Watching

With more coastline than any other country on Earth, there’s also a plethora of opportunities for whale watching in Canada . Whether you’re looking to see Humpback Whales, Orca Whales, Grey Whales, and many others, they can be found in many provinces from west to east. Vancouver and Vancouver Island are the best places to spot Orcas, whereas Quebec, Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia are great places to spot Humpbacks. However, most whales can be found throughout the country at various times throughout the season. You can even get up close and personal with Beluga Whales in Churchill , Manitoba. How cool is that?

Wildlife Sightings and Tours

Canada is a wild place and that means lots of wildlife as well. In fact, if you’re on a road trip, camping, canoeing, or hiking, you’ll most likely spot them on your own. For example, we always see elk when we visit Jasper, Moose when we visit Newfoundland, and Big Horn Sheep when we’re driving through the mountains. We’ve also seen bears around Nordegg , wolves near Radium Hot Springs, and deer almost everywhere we go. There’s also a plethora of wildlife tours and paid attractions. For example, we went on a grizzly bear tour from Campbell River on Vancouver Island, which took us up into the inlets of British Columbia to see Grizzly Bears eating salmon out of the river. We also spent the night with wolves near Montreal , Quebec. If you’re into seeing wildlife, Canada is the place to be!

Helicopter Tours

While helicopter tours also run during the winter months in some locations, the most popular time to go is during the summer when the weather is at its best. There are so many helicopter tours from coast to coast to coast, including helicopter flights over Niagara Falls , the Rocky Mountains, major cities such as Toronto, and so much more! It’s a really great way to see both cities and natural attractions, giving you a birds-eye view like no other.

Canada is wildly popular for fishing. After all, we have millions of lakes, hundreds of rivers, and more coastline than anywhere else on Earth. Whether you’re looking to catch a cod in Newfoundland, hook a salmon off the coast of Vancouver, or catch a variety of trout in one of the many lakes throughout the country, there’s no shortage of opportunities. Both cast fishing and fly-fishing are considered world-class.

Another popular activity is biking. This includes both road bikes and mountain bikes. For tourism, mountain bikes are often the most popular because most people want to enjoy biking on outdoor trails. You can rent bikes in most tourist destinations, as well as cities, allowing you to explore an area on your own or join a tour. One of our favourite places to rent a bike is in Vancouver, as we love to bike around Stanley Park. For the adventurous, you can also rent mountain bikes at many ski resorts, but you have to be quite skilled to mountain bike down a mountain without getting hurt. Regardless, whether you’re looking to peddle around a city or a forest, there’s something for everyone.

For those into golf, Canada has hundreds of world-class golf courses all over the country. Whether you’re looking to drive the ball while surrounded by the Rocky Mountains or putt next to the ocean, there’s a golf course for you.

Another popular activity, especially for locals, is tubing down the rivers that go through the many towns and cities. We live in Calgary and one of our favourite summer activities is tubing down both the Elbow River and the Bow River. But Calgary isn’t the only place to go tubing. It’s a very popular activity anywhere you find a relatively calm and safe river surrounded by beautiful scenery. Some of these places have now created rentals and tours for tourists, whereas others are completely local and would require you to buy a tube and go on your own. Perhaps you could join Meetup and find locals who will take you down. There are also Airbnb Experiences!

Summer Festivals

Perhaps one of the greatest things about visiting Canada during the summer is the vast amount of festivals spread out across the country. After all, Canadians only have about three months of solid summer weather and we like to enjoy it as much as possible. Whether you’re looking to witness one of the world’s biggest rodeos at the Calgary Stampede or enjoy one of North America’s premier Folk Festivals in Winnipeg, there is a festival for everyone.

Some popular festivals include:

• Montreal International Jazz Festival
• Quebec City Summer Festival (FEQ)
• Ottawa Blues Festival
• Just for Laughs Montreal
• Edmonton International Fringe Theatre Festival
• Calgary Stampede
• Winnipeg Folk Fest
• Canadian National Exhibition, Toronto
• Toronto International Film Festival
• Shambhala Music Festival, BC

Although city tours can be found throughout the year, they’re certainly much more popular when the sun is out and there’s no snow on the ground. Whether you’re joining a tour or doing your own self-guided tour around one of Canada’s great cities, the summer is the best time to do it. Stroll the streets of Old Montreal while munching on a bagel, walk around Old Quebec while admiring the only walled city north of Quebec, or walk along the seawall of Vancouver’s Stanley Park. No matter where you go, touring a city or a town during the summer is a wonderful thing to do.

Canada Summer Vacation Ideas

From coast to coast to coast, summer in Canada is home to a variety of unique experiences for each and every person who visits. It’s quite hard to give our favourite place, as we have so many, but here are some ideas below.

The Canadian Rockies

One of the most visited places in all of Canada is Banff National Park . Located just an hour away from Calgary, Banff and the surrounding area has been attracting people for a century. Once you see it, you’ll know why. Towering granite mountain peaks, bright turquoise lakes and rivers, and lush pine forests make for one of the most beautiful destinations on Earth. Throw in a smorgasbord of outdoor activities and one of the most famous road trips on Earth – the Icefields Parkway – and its easy to see why this place has become so popular.

Known as one of the most beautiful cities on the planet, Vancouver is a very popular place to explore. Why? Well, because it’s surrounded by both mountains and the ocean! This combination makes it such a beautiful city, unmatched in every way. It’s also one of the most densely popular cities in North America, which makes it feel alive with so many things to do, places to see, and an incredible array of restaurants and bars. Throw in the fact that you can get out on the ocean or go hiking in the mountains on the same day, and its easy to see why Vancouver is so sought after.

Vancouver Island

One of our favourite places to explore is Vancouver Island. There’s just so much to do, including both the charming city of Victoria BC and the incredible natural attractions the rest of the island has to offer. When we visited in 2017 during our 150-day road trip, we went on a grizzly bear sightseeing tour from Campbell River, went scuba diving in Nanaimo, went surfing in Tofino, had one of the most spectacular whale watching trips of our lives near Port Renfrew, and hiked the incredible cathedral grove. Throw in a delightful walk around Butchard gardens in Victoria, and you’ll see why Vancouver Island is such an incredible place to visit.

Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley

One of the most popular places in BC for Canadians to visit (especially Albertans) is Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley. Home to massive Okanagan Lake, Kelowna and area is a very popular place for boating. It’s also home to some of the best wineries in the country, making it a great destination for those who love the outdoors, love being on boats, and love sampling all sorts of wine.

Montreal and Quebec City

For those looking to get a taste of Europe within Canada, you’ll want to head to Montreal and Quebec City, two cities that are only a 3-hour drive apart. Montreal is the most cosmopolitan of the two, so if you’re looking for a big city with lots of shopping, epic nightlife, and a lively atmosphere, Montreal is bound to please. But Quebec City is also a great place to visit. Not only is it a UNESCO World Heritage site thanks to its walled city, but there are so many things to do around the city, including incredible whale watching in Tadoussac .

Newfoundland and the Maritimes

Newfoundland is easily one of our favourite provinces in all of Canada. We love it so much and try to go back every year or two. The people, the landscapes, the music, the food, and even the charming little houses are just so unique to the rest of Canada. It’s home to the oldest English-founded city in North America and is such an incredible place for outdoor attractions, including hiking, whale watching, fishing, and more. But even if you don’t go all the way to “The Rock”, the Maritimes are also an awesome place to visit, whether it’s partying in Halifax , paddling around Hopewell Rocks in New Brunswick , or eating your way through Prince Edward Island .

Northern Canada

Canada’s north, which we consider to be the Yukon , the Northwest Territories , and Nunavut are certainly best to visit in the summer. That’s not to say that the winter doesn’t present its own beauty and fun activities, but the summer is just easier and more predictable, especially if you’re hoping to do a road trip. Whether you’re visiting the wild-west-looking town of Dawson, driving the incredible Dempster Highway to Inuvik, or taking a once-in-a-lifetime Inuit tour in Nunavut, Canada’s north is about as wild as it gets.

Where Will You Spend Summer in Canada?

I hope by now that you have decided to experience the summer in Canada. The hardest decision will be where to go. Whether you decide to explore the popular cities of Vancouver, Montreal, and Toronto, or explore the vast wilderness, Canada is bound to become your favourite place for experiencing the warm sunny months from June – September.

Want more summer? Check out these articles below:

• Things to Do in Saskatchewan
• Interesting Facts about Canada
• Exploring Tuktoyaktuk 
• Things to Do in Winnipeg

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

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Canada Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 21, 2023

Canada is often skipped over on many round-the-world trips owing to its proximity to the US, poor flight connections, and few budget cross-country travel options.

But those people miss out on so much! Canada is one of the best countries in the world for RVing and road trips and it’s brimming with outdoor activities for all levels. Backpacking Canada is an amazing experience.

I love my friendly neighbor to the north and believe Canada is a really underrated destination. There’s a reason everyone around the world loves Canadians after all.

To top it all off, it’s also easy to get a working holiday visa here so you can stay longer and make money while you explore (there are huge seasonal industries across the country).

This travel guide to Canada can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this friendly natural wonderland!

Table of Contents

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

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in canada.

1. Tour Toronto

Toronto is often considered the most multicultural city in the world, as over half of the city’s population is foreign-born. It’s an awesome, hip, artsy city. Don’t miss Kensington Market for good eats and cool shops, and there are plenty of tasty eats to be found in the city’s massive Chinatown as well. If you want to play tourist, head up the CN Tower for the best views of the city. For a bit of swimming in the summer, check out some of Canada’s easily accessible beaches on Lake Ontario where you can go kayaking, windsurfing, stand-up paddle boarding, and more. And if you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss the nearby amusement park Wonderland.

2. Explore Jasper and the Columbia Icefield

The Icefields Parkway connects Banff and Jasper in Western Canada and is one of the most scenic drives in the country (if not the world). Stop along the way at the Columbia Icefield, an enormous icefield that feeds into eight glaciers. You can travel onto the 10,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier where you can hike around and even drink from the crystal-clear icy glacial water. If you’re not squeamish about heights, walk out to the cliff-top glass-floored Skywalk to get a spectacular panorama of the entire area. It’s easy to reach via an enormous bus or opt for a hiking tour where you can walk the glacier. There’s even a restaurant at the top that’s a bit expensive but worth at least a coffee for the view.

3. Road trip the Maritimes

Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick make up Canada’s east coast. If you want to spend your days hiking, relaxing by the ocean, and whale watching, this is the place to do it. Nova Scotia is sometimes considered the most beautiful province with rolling hills leading to lush green coastal cliffs over frothy shores. There are colorful little fishing villages like Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site considered one of the “Prettiest Painted Places in Canada.” It boasts delicious fresh seafood and friendly locals to chat with. Be sure to set aside a few days for an incredible road trip on the 298-kilometer (185-mile) Cabot Trail around Cape Breton and spend in the Highlands National Park where you can hike, camp, or fish. The east coast is stunning and sees very few tourists compared to other areas of the country.

4. Hang out in Montreal

Montreal offers a look at the French side of the country. Old Montreal is thriving with culture and a mix of old and new architecture within its European-style cobblestone streets, the Notre Dame Cathedral, museums, and river cruises. The other side of Montreal is extremely modern with an underground city and mall, funky jazz clubs, and amazing cuisine, which make this the hippest and most romantic city in the country. It’s also cheaper than most of the other large cities in Canada. Don’t forget to try the poutine and bagels when you visit!

5. Have fun in Vancouver

Other things to see and do in canada, 1. celebrate the calgary stampede.

During July, over 1 million people descend on Calgary for this multi-day rodeo, drinking festival, and carnival where everyone gets to be a cowboy. It’s a lot of fun, and you’ll meet tons of people from around the world. It’s one of Canada’s premier events so book early — prices rise and accommodation disappears fast! Also, wear cowboy boots and a hat if you want to fit in.

2. Hit the slopes

The mountains in Canada offer great skiing and snowboarding during the winter. Banff is a popular mountain town known for its excellent trails. It’s quite busy during the winter as locals and visitors alike hit the slopes, but it’s popular for a reason. While Banff is the most popular place to go, there are tons of other great skiing destinations in the country. Sunshine Village, Whistler Blackcomb, Lake Louise, Kicking Horse, and Mont Tremblant are just a few to check out (they stretch from British Columbia to Quebec so you’ve got lots of choices).

3. Discover Vancouver Island

Take a few days off from Vancouver to explore nearby Vancouver Island . Eat delicious seafood, hike, spot some whales (lots of orcas live near here), shop, and lounge on the beach. This is a place to just sit and relax. Since it is so close to Vancouver, it’s a popular getaway with the locals during the summer. Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is located on the island. It’s a quiet but gorgeous little city worth a couple days of exploring. From here you can also visit places like Tofino, where the bustling surf community has evolved into a fun hippie town. If you’d rather hike an incredible yet challenging trail, the West Coast Trail is famous for its rugged beach and rainforest trails, man-made ladders through the trees, and rare wildlife.

4. Hike the rainforest

Hike the Pacific Rim National Park for a wonderful look at some temperate rainforests on Vancouver Island. It’s one of the most popular parks in Canada, home to Western Red Cedars, Pacific Silver Firs, and tons of wildlife including deer, wolves, bears, and cougars. The Long Beach area is one of the most accessible places for hiking, but the sand dunes behind Wickaninnish Beach on the South Beach Trail are also worth the trek.

5. Explore Calgary

Often skipped over by travelers since it’s not on the coast, Calgary actually has a lot to offer when it comes to free and low-cost activities. Have a picnic in one of its many parks, go rollerblading, watch a hockey game, or head up to the top of the surrounding peaks. There’s great hiking, kayaking, skiing, water rafting, and camping here and you can easily rent a bike and explore the city via its many bike paths. Although it’s been long dismissed as an oil town, it’s one of the liveliest cities in Canada.

6. Visit the galleries of Toronto

Toronto has some of the best museums and galleries in the country, so take a day or two to admire the art of the city. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) are the two most famous art museums, but there are a plethora of smaller, specialty galleries too, like the Textiles Museum of Canada and the Museum of Contemporary Art. Galleries often offer discounts on certain days of the week, so check before you go to save some cash.

7. Take a road trip

This huge country is best explored by car or RV. It’s the ideal way to find yourself in tiny little towns, majestic mountains, amazing countryside, and plenty of off-the-beaten-track places. If you have a lot of time, this is your best and cheapest option to see the country. The Trans-Canada Highway stretches from coast to coast, making a road trip relatively easy to plan. Just keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable (especially in the winter). Of course, you’ll have to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and you’ll want to be prepared for long stretches of driving without any rest stops or gas stations. However, it’s worth it — the changing landscapes and scenic vistas are out of this world! you could easily spend weeks or months touring the country and still barely scratch the surface. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

8. Stroll the nation’s capital

Ottawa is a very easy city to explore on foot. Home to museums, art galleries, and plenty of shops, it’s a charming city worth visiting for a couple days. You can take a tour of Parliament Hill (the historic buildings where the Canadian government operates) or cross the Ottawa River and visit Quebec (the great Museum of Civilization is just across the bridge). The Canadian War Museum and the National Gallery of Canada are two must-visit museums in Ottawa. Also, don’t miss the busy Byward Market, and be sure to check out the craft breweries in Westboro. Try a beavertail (a sweet pastry with sugary toppings) when you’re here!

9. Get off the beaten path in Nova Scotia

The locals boast that Nova Scotia is home to the friendliest people in Canada. They might be right. That, combined with over 100 beaches, picturesque lighthouses, great sailing, mouth-watering seafood (this area of Canada is the main fishing region), and a marvelous coastline, makes Nova Scotia an amazing place to visit in Canada. Plus, the province doesn’t see lots of tourists so it’s far less crowded and unspoiled compared to other regions. It’s perfect for road trips and camping.

10. Admire Quebec City

Quebec City’s Old Town offers cobblestone walkways, well-preserved 17th-century architecture, and the only North American fortress, the Citadel. The historical Quartier Petit Champlain is stunning and gives you an authentic French feeling with little cheese shops, bistros, creperies, and boutiques. It’s especially magical in December as it’s fully decorated with twinkling lights, snow-covered canopies, and lined with beautiful Christmas trees. In the warm weather, you can easily lose track of time wandering the streets admiring the flowers everywhere and colorful window shutters and storefronts. Don’t forget to sample the local ice ciders, head out for drinks on Grande Allée, and explore the streets below the stunning Château Frontenac.

11. Visit Kelowna

Warm in the summer and mild in the winter, this glacial valley has some of the best weather in the entire country. It’s no wonder that this is where many Canadians spend their vacations. There’s a marina and a few golf courses, not to mention that the Okanagan Valley is home to Canada’s best vineyards and wineries (a four-hour wine tour costs around 125 CAD). In the summer, Canadians rent fancy houseboats complete with waterslides to vacation on nearby Okanagan Lake. Overall, this is just a gorgeous slice of the country that shouldn’t be missed.

12. Head north to Churchill, Manitoba

This might be a small town in the middle of nowhere, but it also happens to be the Polar Bear Capital of the World, the Beluga Whale Capital of the World, and one of the best places to view the Aurora Borealis. You can ride in a tundra buggy (a special bus raised on giant wheels to keep you out of reach from polar bears) and head out on the open plains to see polar bears in their natural habitats. Mother nature is alive and thriving here. Day tours in a tundra buggy during the summer start at around 250 CAD, including lunch.

13. See the iconic Niagara Falls

This is one of the most visited attractions on the entire continent. You can never imagine how big it is until you see it up close (you never envision so much mist either). To see it up close, on a boat tour and head out into the waterfalls (be prepared to get soaked). Walks runs a daily boat tour that has exclusive access to the best spots and includes access to behind the falls (tours are 107 CAD). The town itself is touristy and cheesy so don’t spend more than a day or two (it’s fun for kids though).

14. Get lost in the Yukon

The Yukon is the perfect place to get your nature fix. The chances of seeing a bear, elk, or deer are incredibly high (or you can tour the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, where you’re guaranteed to see them). Go hiking in Tombstone Territorial Park, soak in a mineral hot pool at the Takhini Hot Springs, or swing by the Sign Post Forest with its unique collection of over 77,000 signposts. Hardly anyone ever visits the Yukon as visitors tend to stick to the major cities in the south of the country. Because of that, you’ll find yourself surrounded by unspoiled nature.

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

• Calgary Travel Guide
• Montreal Travel Guide
• Nova Scotia Travel Guide
• Ottawa Travel Guide
• Quebec City Travel Guide
• Toronto Travel Guide
• Vancouver Travel Guide
• Vancouver Island Travel Guide

Canada Travel Costs

Accommodation – Rates vary a lot depending on what city you’re staying in. On average, you’ll end up paying 35-45 CAD per night for a dorm room at a hostel. Expect to pay at least 90-120 CAD for a budget hotel room. Prices rise drastically in larger cities (notably Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa).

Airbnb is available across the country, rivaling budget hotels for price and convenience. Expect to pay an average of 60-90 CAD per night for a private room, while entire homes/apartments start around 100 CAD. Keep in mind that many smaller towns won’t have many options. However, there are usually locally owned hotels or motels that are generally quite cheap. Also, Airbnb prices can double (or triple) when not booked in advance so book early.

If camping is your thing, you’ll have plenty of options across the country. Prices vary depending on the grounds but expect to pay between 25-35 CAD per night for a basic pitch for two people. Many of the major national and provincial campgrounds sell out early in the summer, so be sure to book in advance during the peak season (June-August).

Food – Overall, the food here is a collage of dishes from other cultures, owing to the country’s diverse history of immigration. On the coasts, seafood is king while the prairies have more of a meat and potatoes diet. Be sure to sample some of Canada’s famous staples like poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curds), beaver tails (fried dough with maple syrup), Canadian bacon, and the oddly tasty ketchup chips.

Overall, food can be inexpensive if you stick to cooking for yourself, eating street food, and dining at cheap fast-food places. Cheap sandwich shops and fast food are your best bet, usually costing less than 13 CAD per meal.

Pizzas cost 15-20 CAD while Asian food is usually 10-15 CAD for a main dish.

A meal out at a casual restaurant costs 20-35 CAD for a main dish and a drink. Casual fine dining costs double that.

Beer is around 7 CAD while a latte/cappuccino is around 4.60 CAD. Bottled water costs 2 CAD.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay 50-75 CAD per week for groceries. This gets you basic staples like rice, pasta, veggies, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Canada Suggested Budgets

How much does it cost to visit Canada? Well, it’s complicated. How much you spend largely depends on where in Canada you’re going to visit. For example, Canada’s biggest cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Vancouver are considerably more expensive than the smaller ones (like Halifax, St. John’s, and Quebec City). The rural areas are even cheaper but getting around costs more as you may need to rent a car or take expensive buses.

On a backpacking budget, you should plan to spend around 70 CAD per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all your meals, using public transportation, limiting your drinking, and sticking to free activities like hiking and enjoying nature.

On a mid-range budget of 185 CAD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, take buses between destinations, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, and do more paid activities like visiting museums or taking a food or wine tour.

On a “luxury” budget of 310 CAD per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though, the sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in CAD.

Canada Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Given the size of Canada, there are plenty of ways to save money when you travel, but it varies by region (as I’ve been repeating). The general tips below can help but for specific tips visit our city guides!

• Stay with a local – As Canada is not the most budget-friendly destination owing to its inconvenient size, you’ll be able to cut down on your costs by using Couchsurfing . While not huge in smaller towns, you won’t have a hard time finding a host in the major cities. Just be sure to plan ahead during the summer as that is prime tourist season and it’s much harder to find a host then.
• Enjoy outdoor summer festivals – Since Canadians are stuck indoors all winter, they love to make the most of hot days by packing in lots of festivals into the short summer. Many of these, like Heritage Days (Edmonton), Kits Days (Vancouver), and Caribana (Toronto), are free. Check out upcoming events online by visiting the local tourism board’s website.
• Embrace the outdoors – A vast country with a relatively minuscule population leaves lots of potential for outdoor activities. Rent a pair of cross-country skis or snowshoes in the winter and enjoy the free use of many trails (versus expensive downhill lift passes). In the summer, you can bike, hike, kayak, or canoe. The cost of most equipment rentals is around 25-100 CAD for a day, and you can explore many areas at no further cost.
• Take the bus – Megabus runs in Ontario and Quebec (with connections into the U.S., including NYC). You can find tickets for as little as 1 CAD if booked in advance. This is the most affordable way to get between Toronto and Montreal (or into the U.S.).
• Use ride-sharing services – If you are going to be traveling between cities or provinces, keep an eye out for people sharing their vehicles. Craigslist, Couchsurfing, Kangaride, and Facebook all have ride-share pages for most major cities. If you can find someone traveling in your direction you can tag along and share the cost of gas.
• Eat street food – Every major Canadian city has plenty of street vendors selling hot dogs, sausages, and veggie dogs for as little as 3 CAD. You won’t find a cheaper lunch!
• Take a free walking tour – Most major cities in Canada offer free walking tours. They are a great way to explore and get a feel for each location and its history. Most last a couple of hours and don’t need to be booked in advance. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Buy gas on native reserves – If you are driving around the country, keep your eyes peeled for native reserves — they are the cheapest places to buy gas in Canada. With lower taxes, you’ll find gas prices significantly cheaper than anywhere else. They are also great places to stop and experience the vibrant cultures of Canada’s First People.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to ensure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Canada

Hostels are not that plentiful across Canada, but generally, they’re high quality and clean. Here are my suggested places to stay in Canada:

• The Only Backpacker’s Inn (Toronto)
• The Parkdale Hostellerie (Toronto)
• Cambie Hostel Gastown (Vancouver)
• Samesun Vancouver (Vancouver)
• HI Calgary City Centre (Calgary)
• HI Lake Louise (Banff)
• HI Montreal Hostel (Montreal)
• Alexandrie-Montréal (Montreal)

How to Get Around Canada

Public transportation – Within city limits you’ll find great public transportation networks. Toronto and Montreal are the only two cities in Canada with subway systems (although Vancouver has SkyTrain), but even the smallest Canadian cities have extensive bus routes. It usually costs about 3.25 CAD for a one-way ticket.

Larger cities have passes designed for tourists to make the most of the metro system. For example, Toronto has a daily pass for unlimited travel for 13.50 CAD.

Bus – There’s no singular country-wide bus system here. Instead, regional operators vary per location. Megabus is the cheapest option when it comes to traveling between cities in Ontario and Quebec. Fares can be as low as 1 CAD if booked in advance. Red Arrow is primarily an Alberta coach line. On the east coast, Maritime Bus is the main coach company (except in Newfoundland where it’s DRL Group).

Toronto to Ottawa costs about 30-50 CAD with Flixbus, while Ottawa to Montreal is around 35-50 CAD. A longer ride — like the 13-hour drive from Calgary to Vancouver — costs around 125-165 CAD.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – There is a train service (VIA Rail) that runs from coast to coast and is very scenic, albeit not cheap. Many train routes are currently suspended or running with limited space due to COVID-19, meaning that journeys take even longer. It takes over 24 hours to get from Halifax to Ottawa, costing about 150-170 CAD. On the other hand, shorter routes like between Montreal and Quebec City (a 3.5-hour journey) are more affordable and start at 36 CAD.

Flying – As your last alternative, you can fly, but since the country has only two major airlines (WestJet and Air Canada) prices are often high. Round-trip flights from Toronto to Vancouver usually start at around 200 CAD when booked early but they can easily cost triple that price. Round-trip from Ottawa to Calgary is around 270 CAD, but again, this is when booked in advance. Expect to pay at least double that price if you don’t book early.

Overall, flying is worthwhile only if you want to see specific cities and have limited time. For shorter routes (like Montreal to Ottawa) you’ll save a lot of money if you just take the bus or train.

Car Rental – If you’re going between provinces or staying a while in the country, consider renting a car for 35-50 CAD per day. This is one of the best, most convenient ways to get around the country — especially if you’re interested in getting out of the cities and into Canada’s wilderness (ideally if you have someone to share the cost with too).

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

Ridesharing – If you are traveling between cities or provinces, keep an eye out for people sharing their vehicle. Check these websites for rides:

• Couchsurfing

When to Go to Canada

Since Canada is such a large country, climate and temperature vary drastically from coast to coast. Canada has very defined seasons, and winter can be harsh and long in some places. For example, winters in the Northern Territories begin early and end late, and places like Newfoundland and Labrador can experience snow until late May.

On the other hand, winter in the Canadian Rockies is epic and people from all over the world flock to British Columbia and Alberta to hit the slopes around Whistler, Banff, and Revelstoke. Prepare for cold temperatures, though. In some places, like on the prairies, it can get as cold as -40°C (-40°F). In short, only visit in the winter if you’re planning to do winter sports.

Summer in Canada is beautiful, but it’s also the busiest time of year. June to the end of September is the main tourist season, with inflated prices and large crowds. On the other hand, the temperatures are lovely during this time, often in the high 20s°C (70s°F). There are music festivals galore and it’s a great time to hike, bike, and explore the Great Lakes.

Shoulder season is also a fantastic time to visit Canada, although spring (March-June) can be quite wet. Fall (September-October) is highly recommended, as temperatures are still warm enough and the autumn foliage is really something special. Quebec and the Atlantic Provinces are well worth an autumn trek.

How to Stay Safe in Canada

Canada is a safe place to backpack and travel — even if you’re traveling solo, and even as a solo female traveler. Violent attacks are rare and tend to be confined to certain areas (generally where drug and gang violence are a problem). You may encounter petty crime, like theft, around popular tourist landmarks, though that isn’t super common. Nevertheless, always keep an eye on your belongings, especially while taking public transportation, just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If visiting in the winter, dress warmly. It gets so cold here that people literally freeze to death so take precautions and always keep an eye on the forecast.

If you’re going out hiking, always check the weather beforehand and ensure you have enough water. Bring sunscreen and a hat too. It can get humid here!

Canada’s cannabis legalization has a whole lot of rules and restrictions. The CBC has a great outline on everything you need to know if you’re thinking of consuming cannabis while in Canada.

Scams here are rare, but it never hurts to be prepared. Read about common travel scams to avoid here if you’re worried about getting ripped off.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Canada Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Canada Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Canada travel and continue planning your trip:

Where to Stay in Quebec City: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

How to See Alberta: A 10-Day Suggested Driving Itinerary

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• Where To Stay
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• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

10 Best Summer Destinations in Canada

Are you ready for a canadian adventure this summer.

The best summer destinations in Canada include lakeside towns and natural landscapes, all of which are great for a wide range of land and aquatic adventures. Ample daylight also brings with it plenty of opportunities to whip out your camera for stunning snapshots. 

Summer in Canada is normally from June through August, though you can enjoy pleasant weather earlier or later in other parts of the diverse country. From charming towns rich in French heritage to scenic hiking trails and vast peninsulas where you can spot whales right from the coast, here’s where to start your Canadian adventure this summer.

Niagara Falls, Ontario

Waterfall cruises, beautiful parks, and wine country.

Niagara Falls is best experienced in summer when the magnificent waterfalls are at their shimmering best. In warm and bright weather, the thundering falls gleam in all their glory and longer daylight hours allow you to take it all in on a misty, close-encounter cruise – just don’t forget your poncho.

The height of summer, July or August, is when the nightly Niagara Falls Fireworks show takes place with spectacular pyrotechnics lighting up the sky against the backdrop of the falls. Other summer fun includes the Niagara SkyWheel as well as the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens and Butterfly Conservatory. There is beautiful countryside to explore near Niagara Falls too. Rent a bike and explore the region on 2 wheels, stopping at pretty towns, wineries, and quaint restaurants along the way.

Muskoka, Ontario

Gorgeous lakes and the great outdoors of cottage country.

Muskoka, with its lakes, rivers, and forests, make up Ontario’s beautiful cottage country. It’s easily among the best summer destinations in Canada and a mecca for outdoorsy types. It offers many choices of parks and lakeside beaches for camping, as well as waterfalls to claim as a reward after a scenic hike. You can even paddle to some of the majestic falls by canoe or kayak.

Clamber through Muskoka’s forest canopies at a treetop park or whizz down forest trails on a mountain bike. Milder, but no less exciting, adventures include boat cruises through Honey Harbour in Georgian Bay, passing dramatic rocks and thousands of pine-forested islands. For an unforgettable experience, you can take to the skies and enjoy the bay from a whole new perspective by seaplane.

10 Best Parks in Vancouver

10 Best Things to Do when it's Raining in Toronto

6 Places to Learn Something New in Quebec City

Victoria, british columbia, historical sightseeing with beautiful flora and fauna to admire.

Victoria is the beautiful capital of British Columbia. The city's many attractions are even more glorious in the summer sun. The Butchart Gardens, particularly the rose gardens, reach their peak bloom between June and August. Not to mention, there are the Night Illuminations that transform the gardens into a dazzling fantasy land. At Victoria Butterfly Gardens, you can admire nature’s artistry through pearlescent chrysalides and colourfully patterned wings.

Summer also gives Victoria Harbour its sheen as its iconic little ferries put on a show every weekend – be amused by their amazingly choreographed “dance moves” on the water. Enjoy window shopping down Johnson Street. You can also take in views of historic buildings on pleasant strolls around the harbour and Chinatown. At Fisherman’s Wharf, have lunch with seals in view, or go on a Salish Sea adventure to see whales and orcas. Read more…

Nanaimo, British Columbia

Fun adventures, from the harbour to the mountains.

Nanaimo is a harbour city on the east coast of Vancouver Island that offers wonderful discoveries under bright blue summer skies. Downtown Nanaimo is a pleasure to stroll through, all the way down to the beautiful Harbourfront Walkway with its fishing piers. You might spot crabbers hauling their bounties or seaplanes taking off and landing. Adventure awaits at the marina where you can go for a whale-watching tour.

Not far from the city are great trails for hiking and mountain biking. Find mysterious ancient stone etchings on hikes through the unique Petroglyph Provincial Park. The Doumont Trails offer MTB cyclists exciting forest singletrack and cross-country rides with ramps for some big airtime. Explore beyond Nanaimo with a boat out to Newcastle Island for even more nature adventures.

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Enjoy verdant views of vineyards, lakes and forests.

The Okanagan Valley and its mountain resorts may lure skiers, but the region is a favourite Canadian destination for summer getaways. The main town of Kelowna on the eastern shore of Okanagan Lake is home to picturesque local vineyards and orchards as well as lakeshore parks and pine forests. Lake kayaking, hikes and wine tastings are all within reach.

Okanagan Lake is a summer haunt for beachgoers, offering over 30 beaches that each have their own sets of appeals, ranging from water sports to playgrounds for family fun. Summer also brings plenty of cultural highlights to its towns. Kelowna itself regularly hosts summer music concerts and festivities in its parks and select wineries.

Charlevoix, Quebec

Scenic rides through a biosphere reserve.

Charlevoix is a World Biosphere Reserve that’s home to several national parks and farmlands. The parks serve as great summer hiking destinations. Among the most popular is the Acropole des Draveurs trail, which rewards you with spectacular views of the Malbaie River. Getting to this region is also a big pleasure – the hour-long drive from Quebec City follows the sea-like Saint Lawrence River, with a breathtaking backdrop of rolling hills.

Another great way to take in the region’s beauty is by riding the Train de Charlevoix that runs between Beauport and La Malbaie, with a stop at Baie-Saint-Paul. Consider yourself lucky when you spot cetaceans breaching the river’s surface along the journey. In Baie-Saint-Paul, Parc du Gouffre is a popular riverside summer campground. A small tributary of the left bank of Saint Lawrence, Rivière du Gouffre is a wonderful place to kayak.

Quebec City, Quebec

French canadian heritage surrounded by the great outdoors.

Quebec City is among the oldest cities in North America, founded by a French explorer in 1608. To this day, it still proudly wears its French heritage on its sleeve through impressive architecture, such as Place Royale and the Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church with its lasting Saint Geneviève chapel. A stroll along the cobblestoned streets of   Old Quebec under summer skies will feel like travelling through Europe.

Beyond the UNESCO World Heritage Site, there’s plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors. Not far are city parks like the Plains of Abraham – great for a scenic picnic. Further afield, numerous hiking trails take you through lush valleys with breathtaking cliffs overlooking the Saint Lawrence River. A popular option is the Bras-du-Nord trail, which rewards you with spectacular waterfalls at the end of your hike. Read more…

Gaspesie, Quebec

Vast national parks for summer adventures.

Gaspesie, also known as the Gaspe Peninsula, is a prime destination for outdoor adventures in Quebec’s Bas-Saint-Laurent region. The vast peninsular area offers some of the most scenic journeys in Canada, with its fine combination of verdant mountain views and the Gulf of Saint Lawrence seascapes. You can explore charming towns and villages, as well as picturesque lighthouses (which are great spots to look for breaching whales) along the extensive coast. Some have quiet yet spectacular strips of beaches to relax on.

Upland, the hills are home to 4 national parks with forest trails leading you to refreshing falls such as the Saint-Anne Waterfall. For a quick hike, try the Mont Albert trail where the summit plateau rewards you with great panoramas of the surrounding valleys. Canyoning, canoeing, rafting, kayaking, and even hang-gliding are among the many fun summer activities you can do in Gaspesie.

Jasper, Alberta

Exceptional summer hikes through the canadian rockies.

Jasper is a laidback mountain town and a great home base for exploring the Canadian Rockies, with access to beautiful mountains and alpine lakes. Jasper National Park is the largest of its kind in the Rockies. Naturally, there’s plenty of action within the park itself to try in summer. Near town, you can hike to Pyramid Lake, kayak Lake Edith or Lake Annette, or take a boat tour in Maligne Canyon.

Southeast of Jasper, one to tick off many a bucket list is the Icefields Parkway, which is magical to traverse through even in the summer sun. An unofficial rite of passage when visiting Jasper is riding the Jasper Skytram – Canada’s highest and longest guided aerial tramway, at over 2,000 metres above sea level and lasting about 7.5 minutes.

Banff, Alberta

Alpine action and scenery that’s best enjoyed in summer.

Banff National Park, with its breathtaking alpine lakes and forests, is spectacular in summer. Longer daytime hours mean pleasant weather, day and night. To make the most of the balmy weather, popular activities include camping, lakeside picnicking, mountain trekking and canoeing. Whatever your itinerary, don’t miss a gondola ride to Sulphur Mountain.

Summer is the best time to golf at the world-famous Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course. As long as you’ve bagged a permit, exceptional fishing experiences await at the Bow Rive or Lake Minnewanka. The Bow River itself is a playground for paddling adventures – you can canoe from Castle Junction to Banff or from Bow Falls to Canmore. You can also trot and take in the beauty of Banff’s backcountry by horseback, with pine-forested valleys and historic tea houses to discover along the way. Read more…

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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Plan Your Trip to Canada: 7 Great Itineraries

Written by Lana Law Updated Sep 13, 2021

Planning a trip to Canada and figuring out an itinerary may seem monumental due to the size and geographical layout of the country. Bordered by three oceans, the Canadian motto "from sea to sea to sea" becomes more relevant when you start planning a cross country tour.

Most travelers with limited time who are looking to plan an 8- or 10-day Canada itinerary, tend to focus on one area of the country. This is a good idea, unless you incorporate some long-distance internal flights. Canada stretches more than 5,500 kilometers from east to west, and much of the remote north is all but inaccessible.

The best option, unless you have plenty of time, is to focus your itinerary on Western, Central, or Eastern Canada. Western Canada is home to some of the country's most spectacular scenery, with mountains, glaciers, alpine lakes, and Pacific coastline. Central Canada is most well-known for its vibrant cities, including Toronto , Montreal , and Ottawa , but also consists of prairies and the lakes and forests of the Canadian Shield. Atlantic Canada , which includes the Maritime Provinces and Newfoundland and Labrador, is known for endless shorelines, quaint coastal villages, and friendly cities with a small-town atmosphere.

1. Western Canada: Canadian Rockies Itinerary

2. canada west coast itinerary: vancouver, vancouver island & whistler, 3. central canada: toronto, montreal & beyond, 4. eastern canada: nova scotia & prince edward island, 5. newfoundland: explore the rock, 6. exploring canada's north: polar bears, arctic landscapes & culture, 7. city hopping across canada, map of canada: great itineraries, when to travel in canada: best times to visit.

Western Canada Itinerary Highlights: Vancouver, Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Lake Louise, Calgary

The best way to see the Canadian Rockies is by car, with a road trip beginning either in Vancouver and ending in Calgary, or doing it in the reverse order. A scenic seven-day trip will take you from Vancouver to Kelowna for a stop along the beautiful Lake Okanagan , and on to Banff National Park . From here, do a side trip up the Icefields Parkway to Jasper and end your trip in Calgary . This route runs through some of the most spectacular scenery in Canada.

Kelowna is a pleasant city that caters to skiers in the winter, with nearby ski resorts of Big White and Silver Star . These are two of the best ski resorts in Canada . In summer, this is a popular area for renting a cottage, golfing, or exploring the lakes by houseboat.

Banff and Jasper National Parks , including the area around Lake Louise , are highlights of this route, and offer some incredible day hikes . You can plan your own Banff to Jasper itinerary along the Icefields Parkway . Even if you are not interested in getting active, there are scenic pullouts along the Parkway to see the turquoise lakes, glaciers, waterfalls, and other sites.

The town of Banff , in the park of the same name, is a beautiful mountain tourist town with all kinds of accommodation, including camping . In town, the dining and shopping options are substantial, with too many stores and shops to count.

Just outside the park to the east, the small mountain town of Canmore is a great base, with plenty of resorts if you don't want to stay in Banff. Beyond Canmore, an hour and a half east of Banff, is the city of Calgary , home to the famous Calgary Stampede held in July.

Flights run regularly between Calgary and Vancouver. Another option for returning to Vancouver is a train trip on the Rocky Mountaineer , a high end rail journey through the Rocky Mountains.

West Coast Itinerary Highlights: Vancouver, Whistler, Victoria, Salt Spring Island, Tofino

Spend a couple of days seeing the sights of Vancouver . Drive or catch a bus up to the posh ski town of Whistler for a day, a fun destination any time of year, and head back down to Vancouver where you can catch a ferry to Victoria , the capital of British Columbia. For some people, depending on how much time you allow in Vancouver and Victoria, this might be enough to fill seven days.

However, if you find you still have more time, plan a Vancouver Island itinerary or some excursions from Victoria. For a day trip from Victoria catch a car ferry to Salt Spring Island for a day of sightseeing, or visiting local farms and artisan studios.

With a few days available, you can plan a Vancouver Island Road Trip. Drive up Vancouver Island to Tofino for a night or two, where you can stay in one of the beautiful seaside resorts . Spend some time surfing or walking along the beaches in Pacific Rim National Park , enjoy some of the beautiful day hikes around Tofino or near the village of Ucluelet , and see the pristine coastal forest all along this remote stretch of the island.

A car makes this trip simple and is the best way to see the attractions. If you are using public transport, it will be cheaper and include a bus to Whistler and walk-on ferries to Victoria and Salt Spring Island. With a car, be aware that taking a car ferry may require some wait time, especially around holidays. If you add on a trip to Tofino a car is almost essential.

If you are looking for more things to do on Vancouver Island, consider taking the time to explore the best hikes on Vancouver Island , or set up your tent or RV at one of the scenic campgrounds . The campgrounds near Tofino are especially beautiful. You can also plan excursions out of Nanaimo and Parksville.

Central Canada Itinerary Highlights: Toronto, Niagara Falls, Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec City.

With Toronto being a major point of entry for many travelers to Canada, this is the best place to start a tour of Central Canada. Spend a few nights in Toronto to see the sights, take in a Broadway show, and do a day trip to Niagara Falls . There are several tour operators offering day trips to the falls, which usually include a stop at the lovely little town of Niagara-on-the-Lake , one of Ontario's most romantic small towns.

From Toronto, you can drive or take a train to Ottawa , Canada's capital, to see Parliament Hill , some national museums, and in winter, you may even be able to skate along the Rideau Canal running through the city.

Montreal is another must-see city in Central Canada. You can get there easily from Ottawa, or directly from Toronto if you choose to skip Ottawa. Trains run regularly from both cities to Montreal, and by car, it is quite an easy drive (4.5 hours from Toronto to Ottawa, 5.5 hours from Toronto to Montreal, and two hours from Ottawa to Montreal).

With more time available, you can continue on to Quebec City to tour this historic French city. This is a city definitely worth visiting, and may even serve as an alternative to visiting Montreal if you are unable to visit both.

Nova Scotia and PEI Itinerary Highlights: Halifax, Lunenburg, Charlottetown, Cape Breton Island

Eastern Canada is a large area and you may want to explore a region rather than try to see everything. Beginning with Nova Scotia and PEI is a good start. The most practical way to tour this area is with a car.

With eight to 10 days, you can easily see the highlights of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island . Begin in Halifax with some sightseeing around the city, and then spend a day touring the surroundings, with visits to Peggy's Cove and historic Lunenburg , before moving on to Annapolis Royal . From here, continue up and along the Bay of Fundy , making your way to the Confederation Bridge and over to Charlottetown , Prince Edward Island.

Take at least a day to explore the PEI, with a trip to Prince Edward Island National Park and Green Gables , the fictional home of Anne of green Gables. If the weather cooperates, take some time to enjoy the seashore. PEI's Brackley Beach with its long stretches of golden sand, is one of the best beaches in Canada . When you are ready to leave, take the Wood Islands Ferry to Caribou , Nova Scotia and head up to Cape Breton Island . There is plenty to see and do here, but the most popular activity is driving the scenic Cabot Trail , which runs through Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

If you have time, make your way out to Louisbourg to see the Fortress Louisbourg National Historic Site. From here you can head back to Halifax.

If you have another seven or 10 days for exploring the Maritimes, tack on a tour of Newfoundland .

Newfoundland Itinerary Highlights : St. John's, Gros Morne National Park, coastal towns

Start your Newfoundland itinerary with a stop in St. John's , the provincial capital, to explore Signal Hill National Historic Site and George Street , in the lovely downtown area. When you leave St. John's, take the scenic drive along Conception Bay and over to the Bonavista Peninsula to the charming town of Trinity. This scenic little seaside village with colorful houses looks out onto oceanfront cliffs. Tour some historic buildings to get a feel for the culture, take a whale-watching tour, or go for a hike. If you are visiting in the late spring, you may even see an iceberg.

From here, continue up the coast through Terra Nova National Park and on to the village of Twillingate to experience a quaint coastal community. After a night in Twillingate make your way to beautiful Gros Morne National Park , for a boat tour or some hiking in this spectacular landscape. Stay in the park at Rocky Harbour, Norris Point, or at nearby Deer Lake.

If you have more time, consider making a trip up to L'Anse Aux Meadows , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see some Viking history. Afterwards, make your way back to St. John's. Keep in mind, driving in Newfoundland may take longer than you expect, with winding roads and last-minute decisions to turn off the highway and visit coastal towns or scenic areas.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Newfoundland and Labrador

Northern Canada Itinerary Highlights: Churchill, Whitehorse, Yellowknife

There is no easy way to see all of Canada's north in one trip. The region is extremely remote, and the highlights are, in many cases, geographically distant from one another.

Here are some options for a Northern Canada itinerary:

If your goal is to see wildlife you should consider a trip to Churchill , Manitoba in the late fall to see the polar bear migration. Many different tours leave from Winnipeg , offering multi-day stays that include options to see the bears in a Tundra Buggy and stay in a Tundra Lodge. Most tours involve a flight from Winnipeg to Churchill, but it is also possible to take a train to Churchill.

The two main cities of the north are Whitehorse , in the Yukon , and Yellowknife , in the Northwest Territories . Both of these cities are accessible by car.

Many people incorporate the Yukon into a driving trip to Alaska . This route typically involves driving up through northern British Columbia and runs from Haines, going through Skagway, Carcross, Whitehorse, Dawson City, and into Alaska to the cities of Fairbanks and Anchorage , then back into the Yukon to Haines Junction and back to Haines. This route will give you a chance to experience some of the characters and cultures of the north, learn about the history of the Klondike Gold Rush, and see some of the beautiful landscape.

To reach Yellowknife , most people drive up the Mackenzie Highway from northern Alberta to Highway 3 running through Fort Providence. While in Yellowknife, be sure to get out on the waters of Great Slave Lake to battle the giant northern pike and trout waiting beneath the surface.

To see more of the north from Yellowknife, flights are in order. Possible options include side trips to Nahanni National Park , one of the jewels of Canada's north, or to the northern community of Inuvik, just 200 kilometers from the Arctic Circle, to see what life is like in the far north.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Whitehorse

Canadian Cities Itinerary Highlights: Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal (Optional: Calgary, Halifax, St. John's, Quebec City)

If you are looking for a cross-Canada cosmopolitan adventure, the key cities are Toronto , Vancouver , Montreal , and the nation's capital, Ottawa . But if you want to probe a little deeper, you could easily add on Calgary , Halifax , St. John's , and even a side trip from Montreal to Quebec City . There are regular flights to all of these destinations and quick and convenient train connections that run between Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa. Flights to the eastern cities of Halifax and St. John's are generally more expensive.

Vancouver is arguably Canada's most beautiful city, while Toronto is a great place to see a show, take a day trip to Niagara Falls, and enjoy the view from the CN Tower.

Montreal is an incredibly vibrant city known for its French culture, shopping and fashion, and trendy Old Town . With extra time, you could add on a trip to Ottawa , between Toronto and Montreal, to tour some of the best museums in Canada.

Nature lovers could make a stop in Calgary for a quick trip out to Banff National Park and Lake Louise. For a more complete picture of Canada, catch a flight to either Halifax or St. John's to enjoy some seafood and experience the culture and friendly people of Atlantic Canada.

Planning a trip to Canada involves more than geographical considerations; the weather should be high on the list of things to research as well. Canada is so massive that the country can be experiencing four seasons on the same day. For example, on a typical June day, it could be 30 degrees Celsius, hot and humid in Central Canada, fogbound and cool in the Atlantic provinces, pleasant with cool sea breezes in Vancouver, and snowing in the Rockies or far north.

The best months to visit Canada are July and August . During these months, you'll get the warmest temperatures and have the best chance to do all the activities you have planned. However, this is when all the Canadians like to do things as well, so prices tend to rise and the most popular places can get crowded. If you can get away in September, you'll be rewarded with warm days, cool nights, and less crowded attractions.

Vancouver and coastal British Columbia along with Eastern Canada have temperate climates - it rarely gets too hot or too cold. The farther you move inland from the moderating effect of the oceans, the more extreme the temperatures get.

Planning a trip in the winter is less popular, unless you are a downhill skier or hardy outdoorsman. The best winter month for a ski trip is March, with its more moderate temperatures, sunny days, and copious snowfall. December is early for consistent snow conditions; January and February can be bone-chillingly cold and have short days.

Winter can also be a great time to experience the arts. Enjoy the ballet, symphony, and theater, or spend some time at the museums.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Ontario's Nature Escapes: If you want to add a little summer adventure to your Canada itinerary, you may want to look to Ontario. Central Canada is home to some pristine natural areas, perfect for visitors looking to plan a canoe trip, fishing trip, or to simply soak up nature at a lodge. A good place to research ideas for canoeing or camping is with our guide to the Best Parks in Ontario . For fishing, see our list of the Top Fishing Lodges in Ontario .

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

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Canada Bucket List: 10 Unique Places to Visit in Canada

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

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

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park – Alberta 

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

Things to do in Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park 

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

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

When to visit Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park 

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

Local tips 

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

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

How to get to Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park 

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

Accommodations near Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park 

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

Haida Gwaii – British Columbia

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

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

Things to do in Haida Gwaii

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

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

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

When to visit Haida Gwaii

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

How to get to Haida Gwaii

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

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

Accommodations in Haida Gwaii

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

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

Great Sandhills – Saskatchewan

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

Things to do in Great Sandhills 

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

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

When to visit Great Sandhills

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

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

How to get to Great Sandhills 

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

Accommodations near Great Sandhills

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

Saint-Pierre And Miquelon, Newfoundland

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

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

Things to do in Saint-Pierre And Miquelon

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

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

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

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

When to visit Saint-Pierre And Miquelon

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

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

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

How to get to Saint-Pierre And Miquelon

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

Accommodations in Saint-Pierre And Miquelon

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

Bonnechere Caves, Ontario 

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

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

Things to do in Bonnechere Caves

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

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

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

When to visit Bonnechere Caves 

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

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

How to get to Bonnechere Caves 

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

Accommodations Near Bonnechere Caves

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

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

Lunenburg, Nova Scotia 

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

Things to do in Lunenburg

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

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

When to visit Lunenburg

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

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

How to get to Lunenburg

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

Accommodations in Lunenburg

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

Osoyoos – British Columbia

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

Things to do in Osoyoos

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

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

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

How to get to Osoyoos 

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

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

When to visit Osoyoos

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

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

Accommodations in Osoyoos

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

Drumheller – Alberta 

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

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

Things to do in Drumheller 

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

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

When to travel 

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

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

How to get to Drumheller 

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

Accommodations near Drumheller

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

Magdalen Islands – Québec

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

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

Things to do in Magdalen Islands 

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

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

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

Best time to visit 

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

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

Accommodations in Magdalen Islands 

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

Churchill – Manitoba 

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

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

Thing to do in Churchill 

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

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

When to visit 

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

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

How to get to Churchill 

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

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

Related Articles

Find inspiration for long weekend getaways in canada, make memories with a girls’ weekend getaway, experience a weekend getaway from montreal, unwind with weekend getaways in ontario, get inspiration for weekend getaways from toronto, take a break from the city with weekend getaways from ottawa.

10 Days in Canada: The Ultimate Itinerary (First Time Visit)

Itinerary: how to visit canada in 10 days.

You’re planning a 10-day trip to Canada and you’re looking for the best Itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared this recommended Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 days in Canada . You will discover some of the best places to visit in the Western part of the country!

If you’re more interested in visiting Eastern Canada ( Montreal , Toronto , etc..), you should rather check out my other article: A Week in Eastern Canada. You can easily adapt it for a 10-day trip!

This itinerary features the region’s most famous cities, such as Vancouver and Calgary , as well as the world famous Jasper and Banff National Parks .

For this itinerary, in addition to the best things to do and must-see attractions , I will also give you all my best tips as well as my list of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do during your 10 days in Canada? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

Where to stay in Vancouver

Where to stay in whistler, where to stay in wells gray park, where to stay in jasper, staying in lake louise / banff national park, where to stay in calgary, you’re traveling in canada these articles will help you, 1) vancouver (2 days).

To kick off your 10-day Canadian adventure, I suggest you land in Vancouver, British Columbia . Let’s clarify right away, considering the vastness of western Canada , the most viable option for this itinerary is to have your return flight from Calgary . In 10 days, if you want to see the maximum, this is your best bet.

As you may have guessed, renting a car is also essential to traverse the vast expanses between cities and parks. You should trust me and go through Rentalcars.com , the site I use for all my foreign car rentals.

• The site is super handy for comparing car rentals in Canada and finding the best deal.
• Thanks to their full coverage (don’t forget to opt for it when booking!), you’ll be swiftly reimbursed in case of damages or accidents.
• If you change your mind or need to cancel your trip, cancellation is free !

To score the best deal and if you’ve already got your vacation dates locked in, I highly recommend reserving your car now. And here’s the best part: it doesn’t require any commitment on your part, Click here to compare prices!

After these practical considerations, you can kick off your 10-day visit to Canada with exploring Vancouver .

I recommend starting with a stroll through Vancouver’s historic Gastown district .

It’s the perfect place to soak up the city’s vibe and see the area’s characteristic Victorian buildings . Don’t miss Gastown’s unique attraction, the famous Steam Clock !

A stone’s throw away, make a detour to Chinatown to visit Dr. Sun Yat-Sen’s Chinese Garden , the first authentic classical Chinese garden ever built outside China. The place is truly beautiful, and the atmosphere is incredibly serene – perfect for recovering from long flight hours.

Next, head over to Canada Place and its waterfront . The spot offers a splendid view of the surrounding mountains and Stanley Park . Don’t forget to snap a picture of Canada Place’s most famous feature, the Digital Orca , a giant pixel art killer whale. One of Vancouver’s must-sees!

I’d also suggest trying out one of Vancouver’s top attractions, FlyOver Canada , which takes you on a 4D tour of Canada (not in 10 days but in 8 minutes!), comfortably seated in dynamic chairs . It’s a fantastic experience!

To ensure your spot, it’s essential to book your session for FlyOver Canada in advance . Don’t wait, secure your experience by clicking the green button below:

For lunch, you’ll easily find something to satisfy your palate, be it street food or restaurants. Why not try out the Japadog , a Japanese-style hot dog?

For the afternoon, enjoy some downtime at Stanley Park , Vancouver’s largest park. You can either walk or cycle around it (guided tours are also available by clicking here! ), a 9 km trail that goes around it. Either way, don’t miss the native American totem poles and the viewpoint to admire the Lions Gate Bridge.

In the evening, the best spot in Vancouver to catch the sunset is on top of the Vancouver Lookout . Similar to Toronto’s CN Tower, the building features a viewing platform 170 meters high, offering a 360° panorama over the entire city.

Book your tickets by clicking the button below:

To wrap up this first day in Vancouver in style, head to the Yaletown district , where you’ll find the city’s best restaurants .

The next day, to continue exploring Vancouver, let me introduce you to a slightly more unusual experience for this Canadian tour: a seaplane tour over Vancouver !

If you want to fly over the city, beaches, and parks, make sure to book your excursion in advance with one of the most reliable providers right here :

Since all that excitement is bound to work up an appetite, continue the morning at Granville Island where you’ll find plenty of vintage boutiques and local crafts and, above all, a vast covered market !

For lunch, I’d recommend assembling a picnic with local products or sampling the food-court with dishes from around the world ! Best enjoyed with a good beer by the water.

In the afternoon, make a cultural visit to the Museum of Anthropology to learn about the history of the First Nations . Especially worth checking out is its collection of totems . If you’ve already visited the Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa , it’s a similar vibe.

Exiting the museum, swing by Wreck Beach . It’s right next door.

In search of some greenery in Vancouver, your next stop should be the VanDusen Botanical Garden . Considered one of the most beautiful gardens in North America , it boasts over 7,500 plant and tree species. Wooden bridges, waterfalls, fountains – the garden is quite a sight and super enjoyable.

To wrap up the day, there’s nothing like a bit of shopping on Vancouver’s main commercial strip, Robson Street . You’ve just arrived – you’re bound to be missing a t-shirt or a little dress in your suitcase! 🙂

All my tips for visiting Vancouver are in my detailed article: Top 25 things you absolutely must do in Vancouver !

There, you’ll find more ideas for activities and tours to do in Vancouver. For example:

• A cruise to watch whales and orcas
• Vancouver Aquarium (perfect for a day out with kids!)
• Vancouver hop-on hop-off bus tour . 24h or 48h pass with included English audio guide.
• Commentated one-hour cruise in Vancouver’s harbor
• Sunset cruise in Vancouver with included buffet dinner. Duration: 2h30
• A guided walking tour of the city.

To visit Vancouver in 2 days , you won’t need your car. You can easily walk around or use public transportation , which, like in any major tourist city, is highly developed and convenient.

So, I recommend renting a car starting from the 2nd stage of this 10-day trip in Canada.

• Samesun Vancouver : This funky youth hostel is right in the middle of the city, a stone’s throw away from Yaletown district. Bunk in a dorm from €40, breakfast included. Strong points: location in the city centre, the vibrant atmosphere, comfy beds, and a cracking breakfast with muffins and bagels. A top-notch pick for budget-friendly accommodations in Vancouver !
• The Sylvia Hotel : Located just a two-minute stroll from Stanley Park and a minute from the beach. Spacious and bright double rooms starting at €120 per night. Strong points: prime location, friendly staff, and the authentic charm of the place.
• Blue Horizon Hotel : This gem is on Robson Street, the main shopping artery of Vancouver. Super spacious, comfy double room with a killer view from €170. Strong points: fantastic location to explore Vancouver by foot, the view, plenty of shops and restaurants close by, room comfort. My favorite for its value for money In my opinion, the best hotel in Vancouver.
• The St Regis Hotel : Nestled right in downtown, a hop, skip, and a jump away from Vancouver Lookout. Spacious and cozy double rooms from €240 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: optimal location, helpful and warm staff, room comfort, and a scrumptious and plentiful breakfast.
• Rosewood Hotel Georgia : A splendid 5-star hotel in downtown Vancouver offering beautifully decorated rooms from €350 per night. Strong points: indoor swimming pool, spa, and top-notch services. The best hotel in Vancouver for a luxury stay !

2) Whistler (1 day)

The second leg of this 10-day itinerary in Canada takes you to Whistler . From Vancouver, it’s about a 2-hour drive to Whistler.

Whistler is mainly known as a ski resort with slopes ranked among the best in the world . So if you’re traveling in this part of Canada during winter, it’s the ideal spot to indulge in Canadian winter sports . You can also enjoy a sled dog ride or some snowmobiling.

In the village, you can indulge in shopping and eat at some fantastic restaurants.

A full day’s program, isn’t it?

Don’t worry, if you’re not into skiing or if it’s not winter, Whistler offers plenty of other activities throughout the year.

Here are some activities I recommend in Whistler:

• Link up the two highest peaks of Whistler in just 10 minutes via the Peak to Peak gondola . Famous for its length of over 4.4 km! You’ll be treated to a superb panorama of the valley and glaciers.
• Go for a hike . Numerous trails start from Lost Lake. Pack a picnic, there are some really nice spots to relax.
• Try out mountain biking . Rental shops in Whistler offer them, and it’s a great way to explore the trails and experience some new sensations.
• Relax in one of the high-end hotel SPAs in Whistler.
• Speed down the longest zip line in Canada at over 100 km/h! Book this activity by clicking here!
• Fly over Whistler’s glacier in a seaplane.

Whistler is the ultimate famed ski resort in Western Canada. Even if you book as early as possible, expect somewhat hefty prices. In the peak winter season, the rates I’m about to give you could likely double.

• Summit Lodge Boutique Hotel Whistler : Located a 10-minute walk from the slopes. A cozy, modern studio equipped with a kitchenette. Starts at €170 per night. Strong points: the comfort and decor of the rooms, super-friendly staff, pool, and hot tub. It’s my favorite for its value for money in Whistler!
• Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside : Only 150 meters from the gondola departure. Spacious studio, very well equipped with oven, microwave, dishwasher – handy for cooking up your own meals. Starts from €200 per night. Strong points: location, amenities, friendly staff.
• Four Seasons Resort Whistler: Upscale hotel located in the upper part of Whistler. This 5* hotel offers very comfortable, cozy double rooms with mountain views, starting from €400 per night, breakfast at €37. Strong points: heated outdoor pool, SPA, hot tubs, complimentary shuttle service. The best hotel in Whistler for a luxury stay !

For a slightly more economical alternative and if you’re okay with bunking in a dormitory, I recommend staying at the Hi Whistler Hostel . Dormitory bed from €40 per night.

3) Wells Gray Provincial Park (2 days)

The third leg of this 10-day Canadian road trip is Wells Gray Provincial Park . Today is truly a major driving day , as the journey between Whistler and the park takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes.

I know, it’s long, but this stop is mandatory on all itineraries in western Canada. The park is practically midway between Whistler and Jasper (the next stop).

It’s a fantastic option that lets you break up the drive and experience the wonders of western Canada at a respectable pace. The park is untamed and far less crowded with tourists compared to Jasper and Banff.

You have two options:

• Rise and shine early to arrive in the early afternoon at the park and start exploring leisurely.
• Take a full day for a road trip , taking your time on the route to admire the landscapes and snap some photos. The road connecting Whistler to Wells Gray, Highway 99 , is considered one of the most beautiful roads in Canada and it’s worth taking the time to appreciate it!

The next day, depending on your preferences, here’s a list of activities you can try out in Wells Gray Park :

• Visit Helmcken Falls: They’re the most famous and among the most beautiful in western Canada. Easily accessible in 10 minutes on foot from the parking area and located in a stunning natural setting, this is a must-visit spot in Wells Gray.
• Check out the other waterfalls not to miss: Bailey’s Chute where you can watch salmon swim upstream; Spahat Falls , and Dawson Falls . Wells Gray is famous as “the waterfalls park” for a reason!
• Take a dip or canoe on Clearwater Lake
• Hike one of the many trails. The Trophy Mountain trail takes you to Sheila Lake through stunning landscapes and beautiful flowery meadows.
• Observe the local black bears.

When you arrive in Clearwater, swing by the Visitor Center to get a park map . It’s super handy for planning your day.

Just a heads up – the park’s hotels aren’t necessarily the most up-to-date and some may have slightly dated decor or facilities. But for a brief stopover, they’ll do just fine.

And in any case, there aren’t many other solutions.

• Wells Gray Inn : Located at the park entrance. Basic but clean double rooms from €60 per night, breakfast at €10. Strong points: location, outdoor hot tub, friendly reception. An economical and convenient hotel for a night in the park.
• Ace Western Motel : Located 4 km from the park. Double rooms from €120 per night. Strong points: friendly staff, parking space, close to restaurants.
• Best Western Plus Gateway to the Falls : Brand new hotel situated in the heart of Clearwater. Modern, spacious, and comfortable rooms starting at €180, breakfast included. Strong points: great location, comfort, free parking.

4) Jasper National Park (2 days)

Exploring Canada in 10 days means making sure you stop by the famous Jasper National Park , an iconic spot in western Canada and a proud part of UNESCO’s World Heritage list.

From Wells Gray Park, prepare yourself for a solid 4-hour drive to get there. Just before arriving in Jasper, take a breather at Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies .

You’ll probably arrive by early afternoon, and for the rest of the day, I suggest you check out Jasper’s two most beautiful lakes .

Maligne Lake is about an hour’s drive from Jasper town. It’s the largest lake in the Rockies and Spirit Island in the middle is one of the most photographed in the world . You can stroll around the lake or take advantage of the opportunity to go on a cruise on the lake.

I highly recommend booking this boat trip in advance to ensure a spot (this applies to all Jasper activities). Just hit that green button below:

On the way back between Maligne Lake and Jasper, you’ll find Medicine Lake , the second must-see lake in Jasper National Park.

Spend the night in Jasper , the only “town” in the park where you’ll find shops, restaurants, and hotels .

The following day, dedicate a full day to exploring the national park on foot . After spending yesterday in the car and with another driving day coming up, I recommend you get in a bit of hiking ! Jasper is the perfect spot for this, offering a plethora of trails suitable for all levels. Visit the visitor center to grab a map.

Among the most popular hikes, I recommend:

• The Maligne Canyon Trail : round-trip distance is 4.4 km with moderate difficulty
• The Cavell Meadows Trail in the Mount Edith Cavell area: round-trip distance of 7 km, moderate difficulty
• The Sulphur Skyline : 8 km round-trip with a hard level because it’s a steep climb of 700 m. And to top it all off, prepare to be blown away by the breathtaking 360° view of the Rockies!
• The Old Fort Point Loop offers superb panoramas of the Athabasca River: distance of 3.8 km with medium difficulty
• The Valley of the Five Lakes : 4.5 km distance and medium difficulty.

And to wrap up the day and relax, there’s nothing like a trip to another must-see spot in Jasper, Miette Hotsprings . In other words, outdoor hot springs ! A perfect way to unwind while enjoying a magnificent view of the mountains and the park.

For your second day in the national park, you can also choose other activities (provided you book in advance by clicking the orange links):

• Take the sky tram up to an elevation of 2,260 meters for a 360° view of the Canadian Rockies
• Take a guided bus tour exploring the park’s wildlife . You could spot moose, elk, and if you’re lucky, even a few bears.
• Take a bus excursion into Maligne Valley complete with photo stops + wildlife viewing + a guided 4 km hike
• Raft down the Athabasca River
• Take a helicopter flight over the Rockies for an unforgettable experience!
• In winter, there’s also a special tour for exploring wildlife .

Here’s a tip: book your Jasper accommodation ASAP ! Most places are fully booked months in advance, even the campgrounds.

Also, prices can fluctuate wildly from week to week: a room that costs 120€ one week could skyrocket to 350€ the next. So, the hotel prices I’m suggesting are more or less ballpark figures.

• Chateau Jasper : This hotel offers spacious, well-equipped double rooms starting from €110 a night. Strong points: the pool and SPA area, room comfort, value for money.
• Mount Robson Inn: A hotel close to downtown Jasper, just a two-minute drive away. Super quiet double room with mountain views starting from €200 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: tranquility, the two hot tubs.
• Best Western Jasper Inn & Suites : The hotel offers various types of suites with a living area, some with a kitchenette. They’re all super cozy and spacious. Prices start at €230 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: sauna, steam room, pool, good location, warm welcome.
• Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge : Situated 7 km from Jasper, on the shores of Beauvert Lake. Cozy, comfortable double room starting from €400 per night. Strong points: the stunning lakeside location, the heated outdoor pool, the dedicated and attentive staff.

If you’re on a tight budget for sleeping in Jasper National Park, I recommend the Jasper Downtown Hostel . This hostel offers dormitory beds from 30€ a night. Everything is super clean and modern.

5) Banff National Park (2 days)

For this 5th step of your 10-day journey in Canada, take the legendary western Canadian route, the Icefield Parkway .

The Icefield Parkway (Highway 93) is known to be one of Canada’s most beautiful scenic routes . It allows you to connect Jasper and Banff over nearly 230 km through the two national parks.

I advise you to allocate a full day for the journey. There are indeed plenty of spots and viewpoints to admire along the way. Parking lots and belvederes are conveniently located for easy stops.

The must-sees during your journey on the Icefield Parkway:

• Visit the Athabasca Falls , which are over 20 meters high
• Stop at Sunwapta Falls
• Discover the Athabasca Glacier and the Columbia Icefield.

If you can only make one stop on the Icefield Parkway, make it this one. You’ll be able to hop on a giant tire-equipped bus called the Ice Explorer, which will take you onto the glacier.

The visit also includes access to the glass walkway that overlooks the glacier from 279 meters high.

It’s one of the most popular activities in the region and good news, you can book it by clicking on the button below :

If you don’t wish to take the glacier bus tour, you can also directly access the observation walkway . Tickets can be booked by clicking here !

Last stop on the road: Lake Peyto , accessible via a 15-minute stroll. You’ll be amazed by its turquoise waters, a result of glacier melt.

To ensure you don’t miss any points of interest, check out the Icefield Parkway website.

As the day comes to a close, you’ve reached the end of Route 93. For tonight and the next, I recommend you stay at Lake Louise, the town closest to the lake that gives it its name: Lake Louise . This lake is in Banff National Park and is among the most photographed lakes in the world . With its intense turquoise blue, the lake is simply stunning and ultra-photogenic.

On tomorrow’s agenda , you can engage in the most common activity in the park, hiking ! Many hiking trails start from Lake Louise and also from Moraine Lake , Banff’s other famous lake. You can get the leaflet of all the hikes at the visitor center located in the Lake Louise village.

Among the list of easy trails, I highly recommend the one that takes you around Lake Louise in about an hour. It’s a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of this iconic lake. You can also hike up to the Fairview lookout , in only 45 minutes to admire the lake and the iconic hotel in the background. Following the same principle, you can also circle Moraine Lake in 45 minutes.

When it comes to medium difficulty hikes, the most beautiful one undoubtedly is that of the Plain of Six Glaciers . This roughly 4-hour hike lets you discover a series of impressive glaciers and peaks.

To check the trail conditions and see all the possible hikes, visit Parks Canada’s website .

The park also offers most of these hikes guided and in small groups . You’ll have a choice of 4 trails of varying difficulties such as Stanley Glacier or the Plain of Six Glaciers.

To book a guided hike in Banff Park , click here:

During this day, you can also:

• Taking the cable car (click here for tickets) to reach the summit of Sulphur Mountain, at 2,281 meters above sea level. Let me tell you, the view is stunning!
• Embark on a cruise on Lake Minnewanka
• Go horseback riding along the river
• Go on a traditional canoe ride on the Bow River
• In winter, take a guided ice cleat hike in the Johnston Canyon.

My tips and tricks for best organizing your hiking day in Banff Park:

1) Both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake have parking lots . However, spots are limited and during the tourist season (June to September), it’s advised to get there before 9 AM if you want your spot.

2) Once the parking spots at Moraine Lake are filled, the road is blocked off and you won’t be able to access it anymore. Remember, it’s only open from May to October.

3) Starting from Lake Louise (the village), a free shuttle takes you to Lake Louise (the actual lake). Shuttles rotate roughly every 20 minutes until 6 p.m. for the return trip.

4) Bears are quite common in Banff Park, so always carry bear spray and make noise when walking so they can hear you coming. It’s always better to move in groups.

To avoid these minor traffic or parking issues , you can also choose the hop-on, hop-off bus that stops at Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake . Hop on and off whenever you want!

The guides will be happy to help you plan your day according to the schedule.

Here, I’m going to echo my advice for Jasper National Park: book early ! And, similarly, brace yourself for the high prices.

• Baker Creek Mountain Resort : Located a breezy 20-minute drive from Lake Louise. This resort offers suites and chalets bedecked in classic mountain style, complete with wood paneling and fireplaces, starting from €280 a night. Strong points: the riverside location, the natural setting, the charm of the chalets. My recommandation for a romantic stay in Banff Park !
• Paradise Lodge and Bungalows : Situated 1 km from Lake Louise village. Wooden suites and bungalows that are both typical and cozy, starting from €300 a night. Strong points: the ideal location, the beautiful setting, and the outstanding welcome.
• Fairmont Château Lake Louise : This is the renowned hotel located by Lake Louise! Elegant and well-decorated double rooms with views of the lake or the chateau park starting from €470 a night. Strong points: the panoramic terrace for lake viewing, the location, the warm staff. The best hotel in Banff National Park for a luxury stay!

For a much more budget-friendly option, consider a night in a hostel. I’d recommend the HI-Lake Louise Alpine Centre . Dormitory beds start at €40 a night – you’ll be hard-pressed to find cheaper! They also offer double rooms starting from €100 a night.

6) Calgary (1 day)

You’re now at the last stop of this 10-day journey through Canada . Today, you’ll be leaving Banff National Park to head to Calgary . A roughly 2-hour drive from Lake Louise awaits you.

Calgary is often a stopover city at the start or end of a road trip in western Canada. However, it’s worth taking a detour to check out the main points of interest.

To explore Calgary in 1 day , I suggest you visit the Glenbow Museum . This is the perfect way to learn more about the history of the city and Alberta region . With its 33,000 works, the Glenbow is nothing less than the largest art museum in Western Canada . The visit is genuinely fascinating.

Next, head over to the Calgary Tower , the city’s iconic landmark. The tower provides a 360° view of the entire city and a section of the Canadian Rockies . With a glass floor, you’re in for quite a thrill nearly 190 meters high! Just like its iconic counterparts in Toronto or Vancouver, you can indulge in a scrumptious lunch at the revolving restaurant situated at the top.

To skip the queue, I recommend purchasing your Calgary Tower ticket online by clicking the green button below:

In the afternoon, I recommend you visit Heritage Park Village. Walk around a typical western Canadian village from the last century. Embark on a journey to explore the shops, the blacksmith’s, the bakery , and uncover the fascinating ways of life from times gone by. Take a ride on a genuine steam train or embark on a cruise on a paddle steamer.

If you’re spending 10 days in Canada with family , this is a fantastic activity to do in Calgary!

Here too, tickets are available directly online by clicking here !

In the late afternoon, head to Calgary’s coolest neighborhood: Kensington Village . Take the opportunity to do some shopping and pick up last-minute souvenirs. This is also where I recommend having your evening meal, as it’s home to some of Calgary’s best restaurants.

To organize your day in Calgary, take a look at my article: Visiting Calgary: the top 10 must-sees !

If you’re lucky enough to have an extra day and are visiting Canada for 11 days :

• You can add an extra day around Vancouver to go whale watching or visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge , the most famous attraction near Vancouver.
• Another option: if you prefer nature over city, add an extra day in Jasper or Banff Park for hiking.
• Wicked Hostels : This youth hostel is located opposite the Calgary Stampede. Bunk in a dorm from €25, breakfast included. Strong points: the central location, the full breakfast, the warm atmosphere, and free laundry. This is a fantastic budget-friendly accommodation choice in Calgary !
• Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel & Suites by APA : Located right in the city center, 900m from Calgary Tower. Cozy and comfortable studio with kitchen from €130 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: the central location, the full breakfast, the cleanliness. It’s my favorite for its value for money in Calgary !
• Grey Eagle Resort : Located a 10-minute drive from the city center. Modern and comfortable double room starting at €160 per night. Strong points: the indoor swimming pool, the room size, the hospitality.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Calgary Downtown/Beltline District : Located 800m from the tower. Modern, spacious, and fully decorated studio with kitchen, from €210, breakfast included. Strong points: the abundant breakfast, the view from the rooms, the location.
• Hôtel Le Germain : The hotel is located right opposite the Calgary Tower, ideal for exploring the city on foot. Modern and spacious double room from €250 per night, breakfast included. Strong points: exceptional hotel with attentive staff, delicious breakfast, comfortable rooms, the size of the bathrooms. The best hotel in Calgary for a luxury stay !

Feel free to give me your feedback and suggestions on my 10-day itinerary in Canada ! And if you need help planning your trip, simply ask me your questions in the comments section below.

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

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

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

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Summer 2024 Tours & Vacation Packages Canada

250+ canada vacation packages in june, july and august.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Heart of the Canadian Rockies

Tour Director and driver made the time on board the bus less taxing

Vancouver Island & Northern Rockies

Great tour leader! Energetic and friendly. Didn’t take into account varying abilities. Great participants but the energy level of the tour was a bit much for me. Didn’t like racing down the trail. Approaching 70, maybe tour wasn’t right for me. Itinerary was lousy except for two days: inside passage and Icefields highway. Good time overall. Thanks, Storm!

Canada's Rockies (Base, 8 Days)

Great tour, cruise and rail journey. Bens knowledge and professionalism exceede our expectations. Stayed in first class accommodation, clean and comfortable coach, would not hesitate to tour withBen again.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Rockies Western Canada Iconic Sites: 7-Day Tour

By far the best tour I have ever done! Our guide (Meghan) was amazing! We always had a good laugh, enjoyed the company of the other guest and guide and got to stay in lovely accommodation. The tour was extremely well organised and the drives were very scenic and enjoyable. Highly recommend this tour !

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Grand Canadian Rockies

Really awesome! I enjoyed it immensely plus our guide Jay was so accommodating to everyone's personal wants to the tour. Also he's really versatile and knows exactly how to time everything so we're not bothered too much by the tourist rushes. It was so great. I'm so happy I went ^^

• Hiking & Trekking

Active Canadian Rockies Adventure

Highly recommended!!

Wonders of the Canadian Rockies (10 Days) (7 destinations)

The lobstick hotel was not as clean as expected. It access bringing the bags was difficult having to carry up suitcases up the stairs needs a ramp.

Rockies Premium Tour from Vancouver (34 Seats)

Kara was an excellent driver and guide. She was very knowledgeable and the tour included wonderful views and fantastic stops. I would highly recommend this tour

The Maritimes: Nova Scotia

My husband and I did the tour of the Martimes in Nova Scotia. It was beautiful country. Our tour guide, Louise, was fantastic. She is so kind and caring; she is an amazing safe driver. She's always there for you. The only thing I didn't like about the trip was the motel in Baddeck. It was so old; musty smelling. Needs a total renovation. Everything about it was pretty awful. No-one on the trip was happy with this hotel. Other than that, we did enjoy the rest of the trip. the other hotels were fine. The Picnic Louise arranged was a lot of fun and the hike was awesome on the Cabot trail.

7 Day Vancouver Island Camping Adventure

Our recently completed Fresh Adventures “Vancouver Island Adventure” was simply put, an incredible experience all around that we will treasure as one of our lifelong most memorable trips. Alex, the owner, delivered a unique connectivity with the awesome natural beauty and diversity of Vancouver Island for everyone irrespective of camping/hiking/paddling skills. Each day was jam packed with adventure and quality of food one might expect to get at a fine restaurant. From the first growth forests of Cathedral Grove to riding a pack freighter through Barkley Sound to sea kayaking out of protected islands near Torino and the expansive splendor and ruggedness of Strathcona Park as experienced by hiking to high mountain lakes, our 8 days flew by however our memories are indelibly etched in our souls. Were it possible, we’d give Alex and Fresh Adventures a 6 on a 1-5 scale. We enthusiastically recommend doing this trip !

• €130 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Wonders of the Maritimes & Scenic Cape Breton (11 destinations)

Excellent tour guide....Carol Dobson. She was knowledgeable, friendly, and always willing to help. She was tireless in her quest to make everyone happy and satisfied. I greatly enjoyed time spent with her. Our bus driver Alex was incredible. Not only did he avoid collision when an oncoming car crossed the midline, and stop carefully I to miss 3 deer crossing the road in front of us, he provided the smoothest ride ever so I did not get motion sickness. First time ever! I greatly enjoyed the entire tour but these two people made it the best tour I have ever been on! Laura Spinazze

Real Canada

Trip leader Michelle Tepel was incredible, with an amazing sense of humour and patience personified! The participatory camping was an awesome way to explore this region with a food kitty enabling your budget to go a long way! The hikes, lakes, glaciers, snow-tipped mountains and amazing wildlife on this trip blow you away on a daily basis. Nothing like the Rockies! This is a must do trip!

5-Day Rockies Unique Tour (Banff & Jasper & Yoho National Park)

Very well organized tour.No complaint.

Newfoundland Adventure: Westbound

Mia Dion was the best Tour Guide we could have ever asked for. So very efficient in every way. Helpful, knowledgeable, polite, friendly and organized always.

7 Day Rocky Mountain Camping Adventure

It was an amazing experience! Elisha is very positive and understanding, and she made us some excellent food and deserts! Loved it!

What people love about Canada Tours in Summer

We real enjoyed our time away.

Great time very good ,guide and driver

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• Canada Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
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6 amazing summer getaways in Canada with teenagers

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Summer in Canada is the perfect time to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In Canada, summer break typically begins in late June and lasts until early September.

For families, it’s a time to reconnect and bond, while in Canada with teenagers it’s a chance to let loose and have some fun. No matter what your age, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during the summer months.

From beaches to mountains, there’s no shortage of breathtaking scenery to take in. And with so many different activities on offer, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you. Whether you want to relax and soak up the sun or get active and explore new terrain, Canada with teenagers has it all for a family vacation.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your summer vacation today!

More travel inspiration for your family vacations

Its cool climatic conditions make it an ideal destination to visit during the summer. So, if you too are planning to beat the heat this summer by travelling abroad, then Canada is a destination well worth considering. With everything that it has in store, you’ll have a memorable summer with teens in Canada.

Where are the best places in Canada with teenagers this summer?

There are a lot of places in Canada that you can explore to have a fulfilling trip. Here are a few getaways you can include in your itinerary when planning your family holiday in Canada.

Vancouver Island holiday – Canada with teenagers

Vancouver Island is the perfect holiday destination for families with teenagers . There are so many fun activities to do that everyone in the family will enjoy. From hiking and biking to swimming and kayaking, there is something for everyone to enjoy. And, of course, let’s not forget about the stunning scenery.

Vancouver Island is one of the most popular spots in Canada for whale watching. Many different companies offer whale-watching tours, so you can find one that fits your budget and schedule. Most of the tours last about 2-3 hours, and you’ll be able to see some amazing marine life.

If you’re looking for a fun activity on your next family vacation in Canada, be sure to add Vancouver Island whale watching to your list! Search Vancouver attractions for your Canada with teenagers holiday

Book a hotel in Vancouver ↗

Book an apartment in vancouver ↗, whistler, british columbia.

Whistler is a renowned Canadian resort town, and for good reason. This beautiful destination has something for everyone, making it the perfect summer getaway for families and groups of friends alike.

There are endless activities to enjoy in Whistler during the warmer months. For those who love being outdoors, there’s hiking, biking, and golfing galore. Or if you’re looking to relax, you can take a dip in one of the many lakes or lie out on the beach.

No matter what interests your teenagers in Whistler Canada weather it be ziplining, fishing or more, you’re sure to have a blast in Whistler this summer. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Canada with teens! Find yourself the perfect place to stay in Whistler .

Summer in the Laurentians with teenagers

Finding the perfect vacation destination for families with teenagers can be tough. But the Laurentians in Quebec just a short trip from Montreal is a great option for those looking for a fun and festive getaway. The facts about Montreal are, that it is also worth spending a few days in either side of your trip to the Laurentians.

The area is full of activities that will appeal to all age groups, making it the perfect spot for a family holiday. From skiing and snowboarding to tubing and ice skating, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the Laurentians.

And what teenager doesn’t love spending time in a charming European-style village? With its quaint shops and cafes, Saint-Sauveur is the perfect place to explore on a winter vacation.

There are plenty of outdoor adventure activities based around Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts in the area. Families will love spending time together in the Laurentians, making memories that will last a lifetime.

Dawson City Canada

Dawson City is the perfect holiday destination for families with teenagers. This beautiful city has so much to do, from hiking and biking trails to kayaking and canoeing. And, of course, don’t forget about the gold panning!

Panning for gold is a great activity for families and groups of friends on vacation. It’s also a great way to teach children about patience and the value of hard work. There are many different ways to do it.

You can go out into the rivers and streams, or you can try your hand at prospecting in old mining claims. Guided tours are also available that will take you to some of the best spots for finding gold.

Dawson City is the perfect place to vacation with your family this summer. You’ll all have a blast exploring everything this wonderful city offers!

Nova Scotia summer vacation

Nova Scotia is a great place to visit in the summertime. There are many things to do that are perfect for families, couples, and history buffs alike. The ocean is always a popular destination, and there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.

Some top things to do in Nova Scotia during the summer months include exploring the area.

Go to Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, going for a hike along one of the many trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and taking a whale-watching tour off the coast of Peggy’s Cove.

Families will also enjoy visiting one of the several theme parks or beaches in the area.

For those interested in Nova Scotia’s history, there are many museums and historical sites to explore. You can find artifacts from the Titanic in the Maritime  Museum  of the Atlantic while 150 people who died on the boat are buried in Halifax.

Toronto & Niagara Falls

A family vacation to Toronto with teenagers can be a great way to bond and have fun. Plenty of activities will appeal to everyone in the family, from exploring the vibrant city to enjoying the natural beauty of Niagara Falls.

Toronto is an excellent choice for a holiday with teenagers because there is so much to see and do. Families can spend days sightseeing, shopping, and enjoying restaurants and cafes.

There is also plenty of nightlife for teenagers, making it the perfect place to let them experience all that a big city offers while still being safe.

Down the road from Toronto is Niagara Falls, Get on the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) and drive south towards Niagara Falls for about 78 miles (126 kilometres). Follow signs for Niagara Falls until you can take Exit ON-420.

Niagara Falls is the perfect vacation destination for families with teenagers. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, from the natural beauty of the falls to the thrills of the rides and attractions. Plus, Niagara Falls is full of history and culture, making it a great educational experience for teens.

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Book a stay in niagara falls ↗.

We hope this article from us here at   Wyld Family Travel inspires you to visit Canada with teenagers. There are so many things to do in Toronto with teenagers that will entertain you for your family’s whole stay in the city.

Travelling with young adults, teens, and tweens has just as many issues as travelling with young children. Choosing the best teenage vacation destinations ,  working out a budget , deciding what bags and suitcases to take, travelling essentials , and more can be time-consuming. Planning family travel with teenagers and tweens can be stressful , and finding the best travel tips is essential. 

For more unique ideas on where to holiday in Canada, click through to our Canada Destination Guide page  for more brilliant inspiration.

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Author bio:

Father, husband, traveller, and chief destination manager here at Wyld Family Travel. When Mark is not discussing travel or planning travel, you will find him working in disability support. Mark is a family travel advocate, having travelled to over 45 countries with his kids from 10 months to their teenage years. You will find his work here and on other popular websites.

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10 'coolest' vacation spots to escape the heat this summer

A fter last summer's sweltering, record-breaking heat, many travelers are turning to cooler climates for this coming summer travel season. There's no doubt that climate change is affecting seasonal weather patterns around the world, and the way we travel reflects that.

While beach getaways or European sojourns tend to be the favorites from June through August, travelers who opt for temperate weather destinations will be rewarded, likely, with fewer crowds and one-of-a-kind experiences.

Destinations like Greenland wow travelers with the legendary midnight sun , while Garzon, Uruguay, surprises with one of the best restaurants in the world in a small village of less than 200 people. Explore the fishing villages of Canada's Maritime Provinces, or ski down a mountain in southern Australia.

Which destinations have our attention for a cooler summer season? Read on to discover the top coolcations for 2024.

North Cascades National Park, Washington

Washington's North Cascades National Park is a moody, majestic fairy-tale landscape of pristine wilderness and breathtaking natural beauty. Picture towering mountain peaks that rise up from lush forests and a soundtrack of cascading waterfalls. And with an average summer temperature of 51 degrees Fahrenheit, it's the perfect balmy base for a cool summer getaway.

Summer in the North Cascades, while cooler than at other national parks, is still peak time for hiking the park's miles of trails. Drink in spectacular views of snowcapped mountains as you cross alpine meadows brushed with streaks of wildflowers and dotted with bright-blue alpine lakes. Summer is also the time when wildlife in the park is most active, so bring binoculars for a chance to spot black bears, bald eagles and scruffy marmots.

Related: Pacific Northwest road trip: The San Juan Islands and Olympic National Park

The rivers of the park open up for recreation in the summer, too, when kayaks and canoes paddle through the alpine water, or across the glassy surface of Diablo Lake.

South Island, New Zealand

Not sure where to find a cool-weather summer vacation? Head to where it's winter, of course. Traveling to the Southern Hemisphere during the winter season is a fantastic option to keep things chill. New Zealand 's South Island, for example, combines breathtaking beauty and adventure during the winter — and with an average temperature of 42 degrees Fahrenheit, it's definitely a coolcation.

Your first image of New Zealand's wintry landscape will be of snowcapped mountains dotted with alpine villages. If you're a skier, you can enjoy a year-round ski season by heading to the South Island to experience the slopes of the Southern Alps. The region's iconic fjords are straight out of a fairy tale in winter, dusted with snow and hushed in majestic silence.

Related: I flew 14 hours on a 'couch' — here's whether Air New Zealand's Skycouch was worth it

For travelers who like to keep things more relaxed, Queenstown, Wanaka and Arrowtown are known for their cozy vibes, with plenty of hearth-warmed taverns and restaurants, hot springs and cute boutiques.

White Mountains, New Hampshire

New Hampshire's White Mountains offer an East Coast alpine experience, where rugged peaks, lush forests and crystal-clear lakes set the scene for a relaxed, cooler summer. The average summer temperature in this part of New Hampshire is about 63 degrees Fahrenheit.

Summer is the perfect time to head to the charming mountain towns of North Conway and Lincoln, two anchor villages from which to explore the mountain trails. Experienced hikers can make the trek up Mount Washington, which rewards with gorgeous views over the rolling hills and valleys of New England.

Adventure seekers can flex their skills rock climbing or mountain biking throughout the mountain range as well, thanks to its rugged granite cliff faces and twisty single-track trails.

Come evening, hunker down in North Conway at the snug and cozy Chef's Bistro for a fantastic locally sourced dinner and a strong cocktail.

Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

Our neighbor to the north is always a stunner, no matter the season, but summer in Newfoundland and Labrador is particularly beautiful. The easternmost province of Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador wows with rugged beauty, from cliffs that plunge into the churning Atlantic to delightful villages that are steeped in centuries of history and tradition.

Newfoundland and Labrador is a large province, so summer temperatures can range from 40 degrees Fahrenheit in northern Labrador to 60 degrees Fahrenheit down in Newfoundland and in the interior. Still, that keeps things quite mild even in the hottest months of summer. More hours of daylight means that you can fit so much more into a day's adventure, as well.

R elated: 5 small Canadian cities you can use points and miles to visit this year

Exploring coastal villages is one of the highlights of visiting this part of Canada, especially during summer when festivities are in full swing. Soak in the colorful houses of St. John's, or the sleepy, laid-back living of Bonavista. Trace the region's rich history as you explore the remnants of an ancient Viking settlement at L'Anse aux Meadows, then stop into a local pub for live music and fresh seafood.

Newfoundland and Labrador is also epically beautiful, from the rugged East Coast Trail to the kayaking channels through fjords and bays. The province has quite a few national parks, including Gros Morne National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Falls Creek, Australia

Another captivating Southern Hemisphere destination, Falls Creek in Victoria, Australia , beckons with its wonderland scenery and an average temperature of just 37 degrees Fahrenheit.

Located in the southernmost state, high in the Australian Alps, stunning views encompass spectacular snow-covered peaks, babbling streams and towering gum trees. The village of Falls Creek itself is packed with cozy ski lodges, chalets and quaint cafes.

Most travelers come to Falls Creek for winter sports, with more than 90 runs that cater to skiers and snowboarders of every skill set. You can also cross-country ski, snowshoe and snowmobile through the white, fluffy landscape.

Of course, the apres-ski scene in Falls Creek is just as exciting, with bars bubbling with live music, fantastic restaurants and lots of roaring fires in fireplaces.

Garzon, Uruguay

Uruguay is a fantastic option for travel anytime of year because it tends to receive fewer crowds than nearby destinations like Argentina or Brazil. For such a small country, it packs it all in, from fantastic food to stunning landscapes and ocean access.

Traveling to Garzon in the winter means green countryside, rural landscapes and a peaceful ambience — and an average temperature of 62 degrees Fahrenheit.

Garzon seems to be lifted from the pages of a storybook, with rolling vineyards and olive groves, hiking trails, and rustic taverns. It's also home to renowned restaurants helmed by world-class chefs, making it a gastronomic hot spot. Restaurant Garzon, the vision of internationally acclaimed chef Francis Mallmann, is one of the best restaurants in the country and positively drips with a romantic ambience. The food here is rustic but elevated, from empanadas baked in the clay oven to homemade spinach ravioli, bricklayer steak and an impossibly perfect smoked chicken. The wine comes from both Uruguay and Argentina.

While we're at it, let's do one more in the Southern Hemisphere. Cape Town, South Africa , is one of the world's greatest destinations, but its winter season means far fewer crowds, lower hotel rates and an average daily temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit.

As you arrive in Cape Town, you'll be awestruck by the sheer beauty of Table Mountain, which will be blanketed in green in the winter months thanks to the rainy season. The Cape Peninsula is one of the most ecologically diverse destinations on the planet, so visitors will have the opportunity to see the area come alive with brilliant flora as they hike Table Mountain or navigate the scenic Chapman's Peak Drive.

Cape Town is a foodie destination with bustling restaurants, cafes and markets and a vibrant wine scene. It's also a place to experience fascinating museums, galleries and historical sites. The District Six Museum sheds light on South Africa and Cape Town's heartbreaking history, while the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa spotlights the gorgeous art and culture of the region and beyond.

Of course, you don't have to steer clear of Europe entirely to have a cooler summer experience. Amsterdam 's summer temperatures rarely hover above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Traveling to Amsterdam in the summer is an enchanting experience; the city comes alive with colorful flowers and the canals hum with activity.

One of the highlights of visiting Amsterdam in the summer is the abundance of outdoor opportunities. The city is strewn with parks and gardens where both locals and visitors love to picnic and enjoy the convivial energy. Vondelpark, the city's largest park, is known for its outdoor concerts, while the Hortus Botanicus garden offers a peaceful escape from the rattle and hum of the city.

Cultural events are at their peak in Amsterdam's summer, too, from open-air concerts and outdoor film screenings to art exhibitions. The Holland Festival, the Amsterdam Dance Event, and Open Garden Days are a few of the noteworthy experiences to check out in the summer.

The culinary scene in Amsterdam is legendary, from local markets to international fare across the top restaurants and eateries. Visitors can sample stroopwafels, herring and bitterballen all around the city, or sip cocktails on rooftop terraces before cruising the canals beneath the stars.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc may get the lion's share of its visitors during ski season, but summer is an equally epic time to visit the heart of the French Alps. The area has an average summer temperature of 67 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the perfect balmy escape, full of towering peaks, sprawling meadows and crystal-clear lakes.

One of the highlights of visiting in the summer is the network of hiking trails that traverse flower-strewn meadows and rugged peaks. The hike to Lac Blanc is one of the most popular, thanks to its views of the Mont Blanc range. Mountain bikers will also have the opportunity to tackle the region's world-class trails and downhill tracks. For those who prefer to take it slow, there is the Aiguille du Midi cable car.

After exploring the pristine, raw nature, head back to Chamonix-Mont-Blanc to dip into its rich food scene, from hearty raclette and fondue to pastries and local wine.

One of the planet's last great uncharted tourist territories is Greenland, where towering icebergs, majestic fjords and vast expanses of tundra create ample opportunity for adventure. The world's largest island presents a perfect backdrop for an Arctic summer, where temperatures range between 32 and 50 degrees Fahrenheit during the fleeting season.

Arctic wilderness is unlike any other landscape, and Greenland's glaciers, rivers and mountains are no exception. One of the highlights of visiting Greenland in the summer is experiencing the midnight sun, where the sun never fully sets in the Arctic Circle, casting a soft glow over the landscape well into the night.

Wildlife is at its peak in Greenland during the summer, too. Visitors have the chance to spot seals, Arctic foxes, polar bears and even whales. Boat tours, kayaking expeditions and guided hikes are at their peak in Greenland over the summer.

The culture of Greenland is fascinatingly rich with Inuit traditions and practices. Travelers can learn about these ancient communities, as well as sample Greenlandic cuisine and participate in events and festivals. The National Day festival June 21 is the most celebrated summer event, where the entire country comes together for music, folk dancing and celebration of national identity.

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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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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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What to know for booking summer travel: Expert tips on airfare, destinations and more

Where to score flight deals during the prime summer travel season.

As the surge of summer travel draws near, the race to book a great vacation is on.

"If you're looking to travel domestically within the U.S., I think you should be booking now for summer travel," Clint Henderson, travel expert and managing editor of The Points Guy, told "GMA."

Earlier this month while reporting quarterly earnings, Delta Airlines CEO Ed Bastian projected "record advance bookings for the summer," telling CNBC that the carrier's credit card data and bookings show customers are highly interested in air travel.

An increase in budget airline routes that has created more competition, paired with an easing of the post-pandemic revenge travel surge, means travelers could see more deals.

"Overall prices are down from where they were when we just had that boom out of the pandemic," Henderson said. "So things are more reasonable."

Hopper, the flight booking app, has shown predicted fares for flights to Europe will be down 10% in price from the same time last year.

Google recently announced its top 20 trending summer destinations , which saw a few newcomers on the list and Paris rose to the No. 2 spot.

With the Olympics taking place there from July 26 through Aug. 11, an uptick in airfare and hotel pricing is expected during the Games.

But those willing to wait out the Olympics could find big savings for flights to the host nation.

The Points Guy has featured deals from Atlanta, Dallas and Charlotte to Paris for as low as $515 from August through the fall.

Amsterdam, Prague, Spain and Iceland are among the most reasonably priced European destinations, as seen on Hopper.

Tips for booking summer travel

Don't forget to stay flexible with travel dates and keep midweek in mind for possibly lower fares.

There's also a time during the post-summer rush known as "shoulder season," between September and October, when fares could drop by as much as 30%.

When it comes to airfare purchase timing, the experts at The Points Guy have found prices dip eight to four weeks before the outbound flight, but after the one-month mark, prices will creep back up.

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Time Out’s 11 Underrated Summer Travel Ideas in Europe for 2024

The best, unexpected things to do and places to visit from Portugal’s inland beaches and art trails in Provence to being a shepherd for a week

Today Time Out releases its list of Underrated Summer Travel Ideas in Europe for 2024 , the perfect inspiration for those looking to plan an unusual yet unforgettable break this summer.

Time Out , the global brand that inspires and enables people to experience the best of the city, has compiled the list to inspire travellers to Europe to experience the very best things to do, whether that’s a unique twist on a beach break, an activity-packed adventure or a cultural escape.

The list spans the whole continent and features trips including once-in-a-lifetime opportunities and hidden destinations which travellers will want to revisit again and again. 

Those looking to escape crowded beaches are encouraged to head inland to the warm water and wild nature at a Portuguese river beach aka a praias fluviais. Those seeking the ultimate relaxation should head to the island of Saaremaa which is one of Estonia’s best kept secrets – home to the old town of Kuressaare offering the highest number of spas per capita in the world.

For foodies, what could be more chilled out than an ice cream crawl in Copenhagen? Or for adrenaline junkies there’s a 2,000-mile mountain bike trail through the Balkans opening in July 2024 where cyclists can join and tap out along the route. For those who want to experience everything Scotland has to offer but don’t have buckets of time, there’s the North East 250, a condensed Aberdeenshire loop that offers the very best of the country’s castles, scenery, wildlife and whisky. And finally, mountain pastures await those choosing a weekend experiencing the daily life of Pyrenean shepherds.

Grace Beard, Time Out Travel Editor said: “We all like the idea of summertime in Europe – long, lazy days in the Mediterranean sunshine, whiling away an evening people-watching in local bars – but the reality is often much less romantic, with overtourism, soaring prices and scorching temperatures blighting many a Euro Summer fantasy. But it doesn’t have to be that way – as our list of the best things to do this summer shows, a great summer holiday in Europe can take on many forms, from hopping around river beaches to road trips and outdoor art trails.”

The full list of Time Out’s 11 most underrated summer travel ideas in Europe for 2024 - selected by Time Out’s network of local expert editors and writers - can be found here :

• Follow an outdoor art trail in the south of France 
• Relax on central Portugal’s inland beaches  
• Cycle the Balkans
• Spa away on Saaremaa island 
• Tour Berlin’s sunset spots
• Hike a web of trails in Greece’s new Sitia Geopark 
• Hunt for Albania’s Cold War bunkers
• Road trip Scotland’s North East 250 
• Go on a Copenhagen ice cream crawl
• Sail around Croatia’s lesser-known islands
• Be a shepherd for a week in the Pyrenees
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See which popular national parks are requiring reservations for summer 2024

Every year, it seems that more national parks are requiring timed-entry reservations . Sometimes, it’s just to drive into a park . Other times, it’s for specific, sought-after activities .

This summer is no different, with Mount Rainier and Yosemite joining the mix. The requirements add an extra step and expense for travelers, but they’re not meant to be a hurdle.

“The timed entry system reservation system is not to limit visitation but to spread it out more equitably throughout the day,” Mount Rainier National Park ranger Terry Wildly told USA TODAY in February.

In the past, she said visitors had to wait up to three hours just to enter the popular park, and some caused lasting damage to meadows when venturing off-trail to avoid crowds. 

As Mount Rainier rolls out reservations this summer, here’s what other park visitors should know.

How many national parks have timed entry?

Only a fraction of America’s 63 national parks require timed-entry reservations or permits for particularly popular experiences. In most cases, they’re only for certain portions of the park during the busiest times of day. 

◾ Acadia National Park will require timed-entry reservations for vehicle access to Cadillac Summit Road from May 24 through Oct. 22. There are two types of reservations, Sunrise and Daytime, with varying restrictions. Each reservation costs $6 per vehicle and may only be purchased online, not in the park. A separate $35 vehicle entry fee is also required for the park.

◾ Arches National Park requires timed-entry reservations for all vehicles entering the park between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. through Oct. 31. Timed-entry tickets cost $2. A separate vehicle entry fee of $30 is also required.

◾ Glacier National Park will require timed-entry reservations for vehicles accessing North Fork and Going-to-the-Sun Road from the West Entrance between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m. from May 24 through Sept. 8. Reservations will not be required for vehicles entering Going-to-the-Sun Road from the St. Mary Entrance nor will they be required for Two Medicine, like they were last year. However, they will still be required for Many Glacier between 6 a.m. and 3 p.m from July 1 through Sept. 8. Each type of reservation costs $2. A separate $35 vehicle entry fee is also required for the park.

◾ Haleakalā National Park requires reservations year-round for visitors who want to watch sunrise from the summit. Summit sunrise reservations cost $1 and are required for every vehicle entering the park between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m. A separate $30 vehicle entry fee is also required for the park.

◾ Mount Rainier Natonal Park , for the first time, will require timed-entry reservations for two of its most popular areas: Paradise Corridor from May 24 through Sept. 2 and Sunrise Corridor between July 3 and Sept. 2. Reservations will only be needed between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. Each type of reservation will cost $2. A separate $30 vehicle entry fee is also required for the park.

◾ Rocky Mountain National Park will require timed-entry reservations to access most roads between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. from May 24 through Oct. 14. Visitors who also want to access the park’s busy Bear Lake Road will need a specific type of reservation, Timed Entry+, between 5 a.m. and 6 p.m. from May 24 through Oct. 20. Timed Entry+ covers all park roads. Both types of reservations cost $2.

◾ Shenandoah National Park requires day-use tickets to hike Old Rag Mountain through Nov. 30. Tickets cost $2 per person and can be reserved 30 to 5 days in advance. The day-use tickets are separate from the park’s $30 vehicle entry fee .

◾ Yosemite National Park now requires reservations for vehicles entering the park between 5 a.m. and 4 p.m. on certain days. Through June 30 and between Aug. 17 and Oct. 27, they’ll only be required on weekends and holidays. But they’ll be required every day from July 1 through Aug. 16. Peak hour reservations cost $2, on top of the $35 vehicle entry fee for the park.

◾ Zion National Park is continuing to pilot its permit system for its popular Angels Landing hiking trail. Permits can be obtained through a seasonal lottery or daily lottery on Recreation.gov. Lottery registrations costs $6 for up to 6 people for each lottery. Permits cost $3 per person. That’s on top of the $35 vehicle entry fee for the park.

When can I make park reservations?

Dates vary by park, but all national parks book reservations through Recreation.gov .

The great outdoors next door: Hot to find hiking, camping, more near you

Which national parks in Utah require reservations?

Of Utah’s “ Mighty 5 ” national parks, only Arches requires reservations for park entry.

Do you need reservations to get into Zion National Park?

No. Reservations are not required to enter Zion, just permits to hike Angels Landing.

Can I get into RMNP without a timed entry?

Yes. Rocky Mountain National Park’s timed-entry requirements don’t begin until May 24. Even after that, reservations will only be required during peak hours.

Are reservations required for Yellowstone?

No. Yellowstone does not require timed-entry reservations. However, permits are required for specific recreational activities , such as backcountry camping and boating.