unpopular places to visit in canada

10 Lesser-Known Places In Canada You Probably Never Knew Existed

These lesser-known destinations in Canada provide unique charm. Plus, they also offer the added advantage of fewer crowds than Canada's top cities.

Canada is home to so many lesser-known places that are worth visiting over the country’s more popular attractions. Some of these largely unknown places in Canada to visit even offer some experiences that other more popular Canadian destinations do not offer. They also come with the added advantage of fewer crowds, which surely means lower prices.

For travelers looking to explore this stunning North American nation to its fullest, here are some of the many lesser-known towns in Canada and hidden gem cities that are worth visiting over the more popular Canadian vacation destinations.

Related: 10 Abandoned Towns To Visit In Canada For An Eerie Summer Road Trip

10 Kaslo, British Columbia

Kaslo is a small village that could rival some of the most beautiful places in Canada . The village is located in British Columbia’s West Kootenay region beside the beautiful Kootenay Lake. It sits at the foot of the Purcell Mountains and features some of the country’s most historic attractions as well as boutique shops, restaurants, and luxury accommodations.

A visit to this village is an opportunity to see the world’s oldest intact passenger sternwheeler, known as the SS Moyie . One will also have opportunities for exciting adventures as the village is home to lakes, waterfalls, and forests.

• Location: Central Kootneys, British Columbia, Canada
• Top attractions: SS Moyie - the world's oldest sternwheeler, boutique shops, parks, waterfalls

9 Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown may not necessarily be a lesser-known place to visit in Canada, but it definitely does not get the number of visitors it deserves, even with its long list of offerings. Although the city may be small, it is one of the most historic and exciting places in the country.

Besides the stunning architecture and the historic attractions, Charlottetown is also home to interesting art galleries, amazing shopping, and plenty of bars and restaurants that offer amazing seafood. Activities like hiking, biking, cruising, and wildlife watching can also be enjoyed here, and with fewer crowds, these activities are even more exciting.

• Location: Queens County, Prince Edward Island
• More things to do: Shopping, horse riding, attending exciting events

Related: Prince Edward Island Complete Travel Guide - Things To Do, Activities & Food

8 Sambro, Nova Scotia

Sambro is a tiny fishing village in Nova Scotia that’s worth a visit. Although rural and remote, this village is home to the oldest functioning lighthouse in the Americas, and it also has plenty of unique natural attractions like beaches and stunning rock formations.

As one of the oldest fishing villages in Canada, this spot offers some of the best fishing in the world. Here, tourists can visit a fish plant to learn more about fishing and also have opportunities to hike and bike along a beautiful coastal trail.

• Location: Halifax regional municipality, Nova Scotia
• Top attractions: Sambro Lighthouse and the nearby Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park, which is filled with beautiful beaches.

Related: Charming Fishing Villages To Seaside Towns: Nova Scotia's 10 Prettiest Coastal Towns

7 Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park, Brunswick

Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park is among the lesser-known places to visit in Canada. It's in the Brunswick area and is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in Canada . Here, one will find dozens of freestanding sea stacks that have been carved out for tens of thousands of years by massive tides of the Bay of Fundy.

The most exciting feature of this park is the high tide that comes every six hours and floods the once-dry land around the sea stacks. During low tide, one can walk around and see the rock formations up close, and during high hide, visitors will also have opportunities to kayak around the sea stacks.

• Location: 131, Discovery Road, Hopewell Cape
• More activities: Shopping, nature photography

6 Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta

Waterton Lakes National Park is one of Canada’s lesser-known gems that comes with incredible natural scenery and plenty of opportunities for adventures. Covering a 195-square-mile area, this park is home to gorgeous lakes, towering mountains, roaring waterfalls, and gorgeous forest areas filled with trails.

Visitors here will enjoy a wide range of activities, from wildlife watching to hiking, biking, and kayaking. In and around the park, visitors will find several shops, luxury hotels with amazing views, and several other tourist infrastructures that will make one’s visit to this place memorable.

• Location: Near Pincher Creek, Alberta
• More things to enjoy: Ice skating, festivals, shopping, amazing dining, picnicking

5 Dawson City

Dawson City is one of the most beautiful cities in Canada that also comes with a fascinating history. Known as the cultural capital of Yukon, this city was the site of the famous Klondike Gold Rush which led to one of the largest and quickest migrations in history.

As exaggerated news of the gold spread to the outside world, tens of thousands of people from all over the world migrated through treacherous and mountainous paths to fill this town. It didn’t take long (less than one year) for the entire town to become deserted as the gold was finished.

Today, although the gold is gone, the rush in the gold rush can still be experienced in this city as it is home to entertaining events, exciting outdoor activities, and incredible scenery that makes everything enjoyable.

• Location: Yukon
• Activities: hiking, shopping, kayaking,

4 Vulcan, Alberta

Vulcan is not a regular Canadian town. Located between the cities of Calgary and Lethbridge, this is one of the best small towns in Canada off the beaten path; it is known for being home to lots of star trek-themed attractions that will make visitors feel like they are on a different planet.

The town has even been named the Star Trek capital of the world, which makes it a must-visit for every Star Trek fan. Besides the Star Trek attractions, Vulcan is also home to several amenities like accommodations, restaurants, and shops, as well as beautiful waterbodies, some of which are great for swimming, boating, and fishing.

• Location: Vulcan County, Southern Alberta, Alberta
• Top attractions: Vulcan Museum, Vulcan Tourism and Trek Centre, Solar Tree,

3 Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

Cape Breton Island is one of Canada’s best-kept secrets. This island is home to dramatic coastlines, gorgeous trails, and towering forest-carpeted mountains, which combine to make it unbelievably beautiful all year round.

Visitors here will have access to some of the most exciting outdoor adventures in the world, from scenic drives to incredibly beautiful coastal hikes that lead to mesmerizing best views. Several historic attractions also await visitors on this island as well as resorts, restaurants, and great music.

• Location: Nova Scotia
• More things to do: strolling, road trips, cruising, shopping, wildlife watching

2 Osoyoos, British Columbia

Osoyoos is one of the most beautiful lake towns in the world worth visiting more than once. Besides its warm freshwater lake, which is great for fishing and swimming, this town also has lovely vineyards, beautiful trails, and a picturesque golf course.

Whether travelers are seeking a relaxing vacation or one filled with plenty of adventures, Osoyoos is among the most beautiful small towns in Canada that's largely off the tourist trail and has something for everyone.

• Location: Okanagan Valley, British Columbia (2.2 miles from the Canada-US border)
• More things to do: hiking, wine tasting, biking

Related: Soak Up The Summer Sun On These Canadian Islands

1 Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland And Labrador

Canada is home to plenty of places with dramatic scenery, and Gros Morne National Park is perhaps the most underrated of them all. Covering a 1,805 square kilometer area, this park is one of the best hidden gems in Canada and is home to some of the world's most impressive fjords , stunning water bodies, and picturesque forests.

The park has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its numerous gems and incredible scenery, and hiking on the numerous trails in this park is not just scenic but also an opportunity to witness the rich wildlife that inhabits the area.

• Location: Rocky Harbour, Newfoundland and Labrador
• More things to do: wildlife watching, hiking, shopping

• North America
• 16 Epic Places In Canada...

Epic Lesser-Known Places in Canada

Canada is known for its open spaces and naturally breathtaking landscapes. Where the country is so vast, there are secret destinations and remote places that many Canadians don’t even know about. Discover them here.

Quttinirpaaq national park.

Quttinirpaaq National Park , in Nunavut’s Arctic area, is Canada’s northernmost region. The park is so remote that in 2016 only 17 people visited; to reach it, a flight takes you out of the hamlet of Resolute, which can be reached via flight from Iqaluit. Boasting hours of daylight in summer, and with a landscape of rugged peaks, ice caps and glaciers, rivers, tundra and fjords, it’s safe to say it’s worth the trek.

With a population of just over 1,300 people, not many people know about Dawson in northwestern Yukon . Once a base during the Klondike Gold Rush in the 19th century, and with many of its buildings preserved, it resembles a town out of an old Western movie. Starting from the city, you can join the Dempster Highway to road trip on to Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk.

At the Native Reserve of Manawan , located in Quebec, you can learn about the First Nations and Atikamekw culture. There are loads of brilliant workshops, guided tours, traditional canoe trips and many other outdoor activities to get stuck into.

Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park

The only way to access one of the most northern major dune fields in the world, Athabasca Sand Dunes in Saskatchewan, is by a tiny floatplane. But it’s worth it, with these dune fields stretching for 62mi (100km) along Lake Athabasca’s southern shore. The provincial park also has a unique ecosystem, and much of its flora and fauna can’t be found anywhere else.

Fogo Island

A remote island located off the northeast coast of Newfoundland , Fogo Island is getting more attention these days, thanks to the award-winning Fogo Island Inn. Its rugged coastline, rolling green hills and location in Iceberg Alley render Fogo Island one of Canada’s most photogenic places.

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Writing-on-Stone is a provincial park located in the prairie grasslands of southern Alberta. In addition to hiking, canoeing and kayaking are popular activities, which can be enjoyed down the Milk River which flows through the valley and has the largest concentration of First Nations rock carvings and paintings on the great plains of North America. There are also guided tours given by a local interpreter, allowing you to learn more about Writing-on-Stone’s history .

Haida Gwaii

Formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands, the Haida Gwaii archipelago sits off the coast of northwestern British Columbia . It is home to incredible surfing beaches, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, natural hot springs, lush rainforests and small communities. It’s inhabited by the native Haida people, who were once known as the Vikings of the Pacific Northwest .

The Mountain Wave

River surfing has emerged as one of the world’s favourite new extreme sports, and it isn’t limited to the summer months. Try it in Kananaskis Provincial Park west of Calgary , where you’ll find the Mountain Wave that was built in the Lower Kananaskis River by Surf Anywhere .

L’Anse Aux Meadows

Located on the tip of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Northern Peninsula, L’Anse Aux Meadows , which is open from June to early October, is an ancient Norse settlement and UNESCO World Heritage site. Its buildings have been restored and you can see the Vikings’ base camp before learning about the site’s 1,000-year history from costumed interpreters.

Alexandra Falls

Located in the Northwest Territories , Alexandra Falls on the Hay River has a 10-story fall over a limestone ridge. There are two viewing platforms from which you can capture photos of the dramatic falls, which are the centerpiece of Twin Falls Territorial Park. In 2003, an American adrenaline junkie kayaked the falls and lived to tell the tale.

Powder King Mountain Resort

Powder King Mountain Resort is nicknamed the Whisper of the North, as it’s relatively unknown and remote compared to British Columbia’s other ski resorts . Located in the province’s northern region, it may, indeed, be king of the powder, as it receives an amazing 41ft (1,250cm) of snowfall each year. Experts say the best time to visit is from the middle to the end of January.

Burgoyne’s Cove

In 1953, a B-36 bomber aircraft got caught in bad weather conditions and crashed into a mountain just north of Burgoyne’s Cove, a small community in Newfoundland and Labrador. All 23 crew members died in the crash. Today, people hike to see the site and the remaining wreckage. A plaque was placed at the site in 1993 to commemorate the lives lost.

Diefenbunker

Diefenbunker is a four-story, 100,000sqft (929sqm) underground bunker, which today houses Canada’s Cold War Museum. It’s definitely the dark horse when it comes to Ottawa’s museums. Found on the city’s outskirts in Carp, it was built between 1959 and 1961 to shelter Canadian government officials in the case of a nuclear attack.

Sable Island National Park Reserve

Sable Island is a long, crescent-shaped island located 109mi (175km) southeast of mainland Nova Scotia in the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an isolated place that has a population of five people, 400 wild horses and some 350 shipwrecks, earning it the title of the Graveyard of the Atlantic. Sable Island is also home to a large colony of grey seals. Visitor season is June until October.

Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Park

BC Parks says that Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Park is “one of Canada’s largest and most significant parks” protecting the Spatsizi Plateau. Canadian anthropologist Wade Davis told National Geographic that the park is the “Serengeti of North America” in that it can support large populations of wildlife. Its visitor numbers are very low, but popular summertime activities for those that do make their way to the area include canoeing, hiking and fishing.

Hopewell Rocks

At the Bay of Fundy, which is one of North America’s seven wonders, sitting between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, you’ll discover Hopewell Rocks. It’s thought that these rock formations, standing at 40 to 70ft (12 to 21m) tall, were created by tidal erosion some 600 million years ago; allow them to put your size and life into perspective.

Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island, one of the five Great Lakes of North America, is the largest freshwater island lake on the planet, with over 100 inland lakes. Lake Manitou, Lake Kagawong and Lake Mindemoya are the largest of its lakes, which you can canoe or swim in, or go sailing on. Meanwhile, if you hire a car you can drive around the island in about two hours.

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

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

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

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

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

Places to Stay

The best hotels to book in saskatchewan, canada.

The Best Hotels to Book in British Columbia, Canada

The Best Lodges to Rent for a Fishing Vacation in Canada

See & Do

Why the rocky mountaineer is the best way to explore the canadian wilderness.

Indigenous Canada: Seven Eye-Opening Experiences for Your Next Trip

The Best Hotels to Book in Manitoba, Canada

Guides & Tips

Unforgettable road trips in new brunswick.

An Adventurer’s Guide to Exploring Newfoundland and Labrador

The Best Villas to Book for Your Vacation in Canada

Exploring the Bay of Fundy: a 6-day New Brunswick Itinerary

Amazing Things to Do in Nova Scotia

The Best Motels to Book in Canada

Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..

• Post ID: 1222609
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Advertisement

9 Lesser-Known Canadian Cities Worth Visiting

• Share Content on Facebook
• Share Content via Email

The second largest country in the world, Canada is a marvel of outstanding natural beauty and lively, gleaming cosmopolitan cities. The major cities are fantastic tourist destinations, and they are justifiably beloved by visitors. Nevertheless, there are some excellent yet lesser-known Canadian cities that are well worth visiting. Each of them is uniquely rewarding for the visitor and, just as importantly, visitors will avoid the crush of the crowd.

The following little-known cities or towns are must-visits for tourists for want to experience the true essence of Canada:

1. Nelson: British Columbia

Nestled within the Selkirk Mountains, Nelson is beautiful and full of charm. The city boasts unique and historic architecture, and the chic cafes make it perfect for days of leisure. The city is also famous as an artists’ enclave. In the opinion of John Villani, an art critic, there is no better art town in Canada. The Heritage Walking Tour is particularly popular. In addition, the surrounding cities and villages within driving distance of Nelson are worth a road trip. Of particular note is the beautiful village of Salmo, BC (a 50 kilometre drive from Nelson). Salmo plays host to Shambhala, an annual electronic music festival that attracts over 10,000 visitors every summer.

2. Churchill: Northern Manitoba

Situated along the Hudson Bay, the city of Churchill may be small but it puts on a spectacular natural show for visitors: Between late-November and late-March, tourists can be delighted and amazed by the Northern Lights. Churchill is also an ideal destination for seeing polar bears and whales: Polar bears can be seen throughout the year, and Beluga whales can be seen during the summer months.

3. Kaslo: British Columbia

This friendly town that sits prettily on the lake is wrapped in the embrace of the mountains. Visitors can pay a visit to the SS Moyle. Built in 1867, the boat holds the distinction of being the oldest North American paddle steamer. It is now a museum, but it continues to fascinate. Kaslo is also renowned for the jazz festival that it hosts every summer.

4. Whitehorse: The Yukon

Whitehorse is the capital of The Yukon and it is a bustling and attractive city. There are lovely hotels and pleasant restaurants and cafes in the town, and visitors will be absorbed by the various exhibits in McBride Museum. Whitehorse is an excellent base from which to explore the Klondike and to take trips to Alaska.

5. Dawson: The Yukon

Dawson City came to prominence during the gold strikes of the late 1800s, and the city now appears as if it is preserved in amber. Much work has been put into its preservation and visitors will feel as if they have been transported back to the American Wild West. The first port of call in Dawson has got to be its excellent Visitor Reception Centre. Tourists will fall under the charm of the heritage buildings.

6. Fredericton: New Brunswick

The capital of New Brunswick, Fredericton is known for its stately elm trees. The city has an endearing and cozy feel, yet it is home to a number of world-class institutions. There is plenty to keep visitors occupied: The museums, historical sites and riverside trails are well-loved, and the restaurants offer international cuisine. In addition, Fredericton plays host to many world-famous festivals.

7. Halifax: Nova Scotia

Halifax is famous for its harbors, which are regarded as some of the finest in the world. Visitors should not miss the Citadel on the town’s hilltop. The four-sided Town Clock has a fascinating history: The father of Britain’s Queen Victoria commissioned the clock to keep sailors and soldiers from being late for their duties.

8. Charlottetown: Prince Edward Island

This town is full of charm. It is elegant, dignified and classy. Charlottetown is home to Province House, which is considered a national shrine because of its historical significance. The Confederation Centre of the Arts is replete with history.

9. St. John’s: Newfoundland

St. John’s is famous for many reasons: It has a spectacular natural harbor, the cathedrals are impressive, and its Signal Hill Historic Park brings local history alive. Cape Spear Point affords magnificent views of the surrounding areas.

Please copy/paste the following text to properly cite this HowStuffWorks.com article:

• Outdoor Activities
• Destinations
• Book Hotels, Flights & Cars
• Advertise With Us
• Cookie Settings

Copyright © 2024 MapQuest Holdings LLC, a System1 Company

Things to do in Canada: unique places and unexpected experiences

Things to do

Check the most up-to-date travel restrictions before planning your trip and be sure to contact businesses prior to travel to confirm availability and book reservations.

So you think you know Canada? With almost 10 million square kilometres to explore, Canada abounds with unique places and unusual experiences. Let's see how many of these surprising Canadian spaces and places you have yet to discover.

 Where will you go first?

Montr?al Biod?me, Quebec

Looking for a change of scenery? Explore the Montr?al Biod?me's tropical forest External Link Title for guaranteed warm weather, lush, diverse greenery and exotic animal sightings (think, piranhas, parrots and even marsupials). The Biod?me, situated in the heart of Montreal , is part of the Space For Life museum complex External Link Title which hosts the city's planetarium External Link Title , insectarium External Link Title  and botanical garden External Link Title .

Click here to explore the Montreal Biod?me External Link Title

Qaumajuq, Winnipeg, Manitoba

In 2021, downtown Winnipeg External Link Title and the Winnipeg Art Gallery External Link Title welcomed Qaumajuq External Link Title , an innovative museum that hosts the world's largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art. This immense cultural space bridges Canada's North and South through art, research and education. After your visit, pursue your journey into Indigenous cultures with a meal at Feast Caf? Bistro .

Click here to explore Qaumajuq External Link Title

Rideau Canal National Historic Site, Ottawa, Ontario

The Rideau Canal National Historic Site External Link Title stretches 202 kilometres from Ottawa External Link Title to Kingston External Link Title . From May to October, the canal turns into a paddler's paradise External Link Title ( boat cruises through Ottawa External Link Title are a care-free way to take it all in from the water). In wintertime, this historic waterway turns into the world's longest outdoor skating rink External Link Title . If you prefer adventuring on land, hop on a bike to discover 800 kilometers of recreational pathways External Link Title with easy access to parks, historic sites, breweries External Link Title and wineries External Link Title .

Click here to explore the Rideau Canal External Link Title

10th Street Wave, Calgary, Alberta

Thanks to the Bow River and the emergence of river surfing, land-locked Calgary External Link Title has become a hot spot to hang ten. According to local surf shop Outlier Surf External Link Title , "the 10th Street Wave is one of the world's most beginner friendly river surfing waves." Once you've acquired a taste for urban surfing, recharge your batteries by s ampling signature Alberta food around the city External Link Title .

Click here to surf the 10th Street wave External Link Title

Orcas, Victoria, British Columbia

A whale-watching adventure External Link Title is in order when visiting Victoria , the capital of British Columbia . The city's neighbouring Pacific waters are home to the most fabulous wildlife External Link Title , including resident orca pods (pictured above). Most marine wildlife tours take visitors through Race Rocks Ecological Reserve External Link Title , British Columbia's southernmost point. Cap off your Pacific Ocean exploration at oceanfront Oak Bay Beach Hotel External Link Title and its spa's rejuvenating seaside mineral pools External Link Title .

Click here to see whales in Victoria External Link Title

Toronto Islands, Toronto, Ontario

A 10-minute ferry from downtown Toronto will transport you to the relaxing, car-free Toronto Islands External Link Title . This natural archipelago is ideal for an urban day trip filled with beach time, water-based activities External Link Title (try " paddlebirding External Link Title " or a calm sunset paddle External Link Title ) and leisurely bicycle rides External Link Title . Let your exploration guide you all the way to The Riviera - Ward's Island Kitchen External Link Title before making your way back to your city-bound ferry. 

Click here to explore the Toronto Islands External Link Title

Vancouver Art Gallery, British Columbia

Art and architecture blend beautifully at the Vancouver Art Gallery External Link Title , a 1906 neo-classical building in the heart of downtown Vancouver . The collection includes the works of Emily Carr External Link Title , one of Canada's most celebrated artists whose compelling paintings depict Indigenous villages and emerald rainforests of the west coast External Link Title . After your visit, enjoy a meal at one of Vancouver's top restaurants External Link Title .

Click here to visit the Vancouver Art Gallery External Link Title

Wanuskewin Heritage Park, Saskatchewan

Wanuskewin Heritage Park External Link Title , just five kilometres from Saskatoon , is dedicated to advancing the understanding and appreciation of the cultures of the Northern Plains Indigenous peoples. This interpretive site is Canada's longest-running archeological dig site. There, you can see bison External Link Title , sample Indigenous culinary flavours External Link Title during a Han Wi moon dinner , hike to cultural sites External Link Title and acquire authentic First Nations traditional handmade artworks External Link Title .

Click here to visit Wanuskewin Heritage Park External Link Title

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, Nova Scotia

Overlooking Halifax External Link Title and its harbour, you'll find the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site External Link Title , which defended the region as a high point above the shores from 1749 to 1906. Today, this historic fortress provides visitors with an immersive overview of the life of Victorian era soldiers that called the citadel home. For a deeper dive into the region's history, take a 15-minute walk east to reach the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic External Link Title along the Halifax Waterfront External Link Title .

Click here to explore the Halifax Citadel External Link Title

Parc de la chute-Montmorency, Quebec City

A 15-minute drive along the St. Lawrence River takes you from historic Old Quebec City to the impressive Montmorency Falls External Link Title . This 83-metres (25 storeys!) waterfall is part of an accessible park that offers scenic adventures for all ability levels: catch a ride on the panoramic cable car External Link Title , zipline across the falls External Link Title , feel their power from the suspension footbridge or hang out cliffside on the via ferrata course External Link Title . Drive back via historical Route de la Nouvelle-France External Link Title to sample local flavours from nearby Ferme Le Comte de Roussy External Link Title .

Click here to explore Parc de la chute-Montmorency External Link Title

Alberta Legislature Building, Edmonton, Alberta

A city tour of Edmonton External Link Title would not be complete without capturing a snap of the Alberta Legislature Building's Beaux-Arts architecture External Link Title . The site's illuminated water fountains and well-kept garden are perfect for a picnic bursting with local flavours External Link Title . Since the building sits atop the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, you can also admire it from the water on a cruise External Link Title or canoe excursion External Link Title .

Click here to explore Edmonton External Link Title

Niagara Falls, Ontario

The iconic Hornblower Catamaran cruise takes visitors for an up-close view of the legendary Niagara Falls , Ontario . For a different perspective, take to the sky aboard the Niagara Skywheel External Link Title or venture behind the falls External Link Title . Stay until night time to see the falls colourfully lit up External Link Title and continue your wonderful journey with a visit to  Niagara-on-the-Lake External Link Title , a renowned  wine region External Link Title .

Click here to explore Niagara Falls External Link Title

Aurora Village, Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

One of the best places to see the northern lights External Link Title in the world is the Northwest Territories where they're usually visible 240 nights a year. For an immersive Indigenous experience you'll remember for your entire life, stay in a teepee at Aurora Village External Link Title in Yellowknife External Link Title . While winter and fall are the most popular aurora viewing seasons, you can also admire them in summertime External Link Title .

See Aurora Borealis at Aurora Village External Link Title

Iceberg Alley, Newfoundland and Labrador

Iceberg Alley External Link Title  is a fitting appellation for the waters that welcome the 10,000-year-old ice giants that float down the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador in the spring and summer time. While icebergs are visible from land, a boat External Link Title or kayak tour External Link Title is one of the best ways to get up close and grasp their immense beauty (expect whale and seabird sightings External Link Title too). The best time to see icebergs is from April to August, although you can sample them year-round in picturesque  St. John's External Link Title , thanks to the unique Iceberg beer from the Quidi Vidi Brewery External Link Title .

Click here to see Iceberg Alley External Link Title

West Point Lighthouse Inn and Museum, Prince Edward Island

Canada's first Inn in a lighthouse, the West Point Lighthouse Inn and Museum External Link Title , offers intimate, four-star, accommodation on a beautiful red sand beach in Prince Edward Island . This working lighthouse is part of Cedar Dunes Provincial Park External Link Title and hosts a museum that documents the history of the province's lighthouses. To get there, follow the North Cape Coastal Drive External Link Title , along which you'll find the Bottle Houses External Link Title , a must-see attraction in Prince Edward Island.

Click here to stay at the West Point Lighthouse External Link Title

Nepisiguit Mi'gmaq Trail, New Brunswick

The Nepisiguit Mi'gmaq Trail External Link Title , in New Brunswick , follows the Nepisiguit River which links the Appalachian Mountains in Mount Carleton Provincial Park External Link Title to the Bay of Chaleur External Link Title in Bathurst External Link Title . This 140-kilometre trail with multiple access points External Link Title is a moderate-to-difficult hike. One of the top ways to experience this historically significant route used by the Mi'gmaq people for thousands of years is to plan an overnight teepee stay External Link Title . If visiting the area, make sure to sample some delicious seafood External Link Title .

Click here to explore Nepisiguit Mi'gmaq Trail External Link Title

Baffin Island, Nunavut

The biggest island in Canada (the fifth largest in the world), Baffin Island , is the spectacular homeland of the Inuit and an incomparable playground for the adventurous. The island is rich in memorable travel experiences: see narwhal and polar bears on an arctic safari External Link Title , experience the World's northernmost Heli-skiing operation External Link Title , admire the northern lights and learn about Inuit culture External Link Title .

Click here to explore Baffin Island

Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta

Once upon a time, dinosaurs roamed the Canadian Badlands External Link Title .  Dinosaur Provincial Park External Link Title , one of the biggest dinosaur graveyards in the world,is one of the best places to explore this remarkable landscape filled with fossils (real ones). To reach the park, drive about two hours east of Calgary . Once there, tour the fascinating interpretive trails with fossilised dinosaur skeletons on display. Camp onsite External Link Title before making your way back to Calgary via Drumheller External Link Title to continue your Jurassic journey at the Royal Tyrrell Museum External Link Title (consult website reopening dates).

Click here to explore Dinosaur Provincial Park External Link Title

Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick

On the New Brunswick External Link Title side of the Bay of Fundy External Link Title , towering sandstone formations nicknamed "Flowerpot Rocks" await at the Hopewell Rocks External Link Title . This spectacular landscape shaped by the highest tides in the world can be explored by foot and kayak External Link Title on the same day (check the tide table External Link Title before you visit). Moncton External Link Title , located a short 30-minute away is the perfect starting point of your Bay of Fundy Adventure.

Click here to explore the Hopewell Rocks External Link Title

Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park, Saskatchewan

The largest active sand surface in Canada can be found at Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park External Link Title , Saskatchewan . The dunes here spread over 100 kilometres along the shores of Lake Athabasca, Canada's eighth largest lake. The area is especially popular for hiking, fishing External Link Title , paddling External Link Title and, of course, photography.

Click here to explore the Athabasca Sand Dunes Provincial Park External Link Title

Emerald Lake, Carcross, Yukon

To witness the splendour of Emerald Lake External Link Title , also called Rainbow Lake by Carcross /Tagish First Nation, start your journey in Carcross External Link Title , Yukon and drive 12 kilometers north along the South Klondike Highway. These stunning turquoise waters are the result of light reflecting off a white layer of marl (a type of clay) in the lake. Continue on your Yukon Southern Lake Loop road trip External Link Title to learn about the local First Nations External Link Title and discover more natural wonders External Link Title .

Click here to explore Yukon's southern lakes External Link Title

The 30 BEST Things to Do in Canada – Ultimate Bucket List

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

If you’re seeking the ultimate Canadian bucket list experiences, you’ve come to the right place – Don’t miss this epic guide to the 30 best things to do in Canada!

This isn’t your typical ‘things to do in Canada’ post, filled with the obvious activities such as skiing in Whistler Blackcomb or riding a bicycle around Stanley Park.

In this article we dive deep into the most incredible, extreme, unique and life-changing experiences you can find in the Great White North.

Canada is a land rich in natural beauty, wildlife diversity and cultural heritage, the abundance of which few countries on the planet can compare.

Having spent three years living in this captivating nation, and more time since then travelling to its far flung reaches in search of adventure and epic landscapes, we can confidently say that even after exploring close to 100 countries, there truly is no other place on earth quite like Canada.

Polar bears and caribou roam the tundra in the far reaches of the Arctic while grizzly bears and orca ply the rugged coastline of British Columbia.

Picturesque villages lie amongst the jagged peaks of the Rockies, and cosmopolitan Canadian cities bustle with festivals and events that put them firmly on the world stage.

While most people who travel to Canada do so in search of the world’s best ski resorts or a desire to road trip through the Rockies, there is so much more to do in this stunning, incredibly unique destination.

Table of Contents

Travelling on Rocky Mountaineer

See the polar bears in churchill, kayak with beluga whales, seeing the northern lights, drive an rv across the yukon, flying over niagara falls, heli-skiing in revelstoke, stay in a heli-accessed wilderness lodge, cruise the inside passage on a small ship adventure, stay in a lakeside log cabin in manitoba, exploring the canadian arctic, spend the night in an ice hotel in quebec, take a scenic flight over kluane national park, yukon, stay in the fairmont in lake louise, concert-hopping at the montreal jazz festival, hang with grizzlies in a luxury wilderness lodge, become a dog musher in the yukon, whale watching in nova scotia, road trip the icefields parkway, venture to the floe edge in nunavut, take a spa retreat and eco-getaway at sonora resort, seek adventure at torngat mountains base camp, kayak with orcas in bc, paddle a canoe down the yukon river, stay at fogo island inn, witness the annual caribou migration in nunavut, travel north to the arctic watch wilderness lodge, sail the great bear rainforest with bluewater adventures, aurora viewing in a teepee, learn about canada’s first nations people in haida gwaii, our guide to the top things to do in canada.

You could spend a lifetime working your way through the ultimate Canadian bucket list, and if you haven’t already planned yours out, this guide on what to do in Canada will give you plenty more ideas to add.

From the well-known tourist attractions like Niagara Falls, Banff National Park, and the Rocky Mountains, to the more remote natural wonders, pristine lakes, eco lodges, and more, here are the best things to do in Canada!

The romance of luxury train travel leans on a forgotten era, where travel was all about the journey, not the destination.

In Canada though one company continues to keep the notion of slow travel alive with one of the world’s most spectacular rail experiences.

Rocky Mountaineer has been navigating the tracks through the Canadian Rockies since 1990, bringing guests on an all-inclusive voyage into the heart of the country’s awe-inspiring glaciers, valleys and jagged peaks.

The most popular route travels between Vancouver and Banff National Park on a 2-day trip, with a night spent in the picturesque town of Kamloops.

During the day guests relax in pure luxury, sipping on fine wines, tasting award-winning cuisine and staring majestically at the panoramic views found beyond the Glass Dome Ceilings of Rocky Mountaineer’s GoldLeaf Service.

In recent years the company have added a number of other routes, including to Banff National Park and Jasper National Park and even into the United States, but it’s near-impossible to beat the iconic First Passage to the West itinerary.

Travelling on Rocky Mountaineer is truly one of the greatest things to do in Canada, and by booking well in advance you can also add other adventures such as sailing the Inside Passage onto your trip.

You can read all about our own experience of travelling onboard Rocky Mountaineer here .

Located in the northern extremities of Manitoba, on the edge of the enormous Hudson Bay, is the remote village of Churchill, which holds the esteemed reputation as the ‘Polar Bear Capital of the World’.

There are only 25,000 polar bears left on the planet, with 15,000 of those found in Canada’s remote Arctic regions.

Polar bears are the earth’s largest apex predator, and despite their position at the top of the food chain, they are under the severe threat of extinction due to climate change.

With dwindling numbers, seeing a polar bear in the wild often requires long expedition cruises or irregular and expensive charter flights to the far flung corners of the planet.

But Churchill, Manitoba defies the norm, being the most accessible place to get up close to these incredible alpha hunters.

READ MORE: Don’t miss our incredible guide to the best wildlife experiences in Canada !

While no roads make their way this far north, a trip to Churchill can be done via plane or train, and once you’ve arrived at this small town of less than 1000 people you are now in the true heart of polar bear country.

The most popular way to see these majestic animals is onboard an iconic tundra vehicle – the elevated off-road trucks that take guests around the outskirts of Churchill and the Hudson Bay, giving you up close and personal interactions while remaining safely out of reach.

For a truly mesmerising bucket list experience however, we recommend organising your trip to the Polar Bear Capital with Churchill Wild .

With three award-winning and National Geographic-recognised luxury ecolodges located on the remote shores of Hudson Bay, Churchill Wild provides one of the most unique wildlife and accommodation experiences found anywhere in the world.

Their Polar Bear Safaris offer a variety of itineraries and all-encompassing adventures, with guests taking part in guided hikes to see polar bears in their natural habitat, Aurora Borealis viewing, zodiac tours and of course nights spent in their phenomenal ecolodges, sampling the best cuisine in Manitoba.

A journey this far north is something you will never forget when you visit Canada.

It’s not just polar bears you can spend time with up in Churchill. If you are passionate about wildlife experiences then set aside a day or two to take part in one of the most unique Canada activities – kayaking with beluga whales!

The mystical white whales of Canada’s Arctic live in the waters of Hudson Bay, coming close to shore to feed on trout and char.

While you can spot them breaching from the land or see them on a zodiac tour, the closest experience you can have is to sea kayak alongside them, under the watchful eye of your licensed guide of course.

Operators such as Lazy Bear Lodge and Sea North Tours organise exclusive 2-hour kayaking tours with the beluga whales, which is the perfect add-on to your Churchill adventure for anyone that loves marine life.

Churchill is one of the best places to visit in Canada for wildlife lovers!

Your first sight of the Aurora Borealis, with green and pink ribbons dancing impossibly across the night sky, is a scene you’ll never forget.

This geomagnetic phenomenon is only visible close to the polar extremities of the earth, and usually in the depths of winter, making it a rarity for people who don’t travel specifically to see it.

However, in Canada the chances of seeing Lady Aurora are higher than almost anywhere else on the planet.

Dedicated Northern Lights tours and accommodation can be found in the far reaches of Canada’s north, but just because you’re heading remote doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice luxury.

Northern Lights Resort and Spa just outside of Whitehorse is the top place to stay in Yukon to capture the stunning Aurora Borealis, and the lodge boasts heated log cabins as well as new glass chalets, so you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your bed to witness the displays.

Churchill is another incredible place to catch the Northern Lights, as is Northwest Territories, Nunavut and Newfoundland.

If travelling in winter doesn’t sound like your ideal holiday though that’s not a problem, because the Aurora can make an appearance at any time of year in Canada.

We have personally seen the Northern Lights in Yukon in September, and even as far south as Banff has been known to catch displays in the middle of summer.

Our best advice if you’re planning on seeing the Aurora as one of your top things to do in Canada is to travel to one of the northern parts of the country.

Not only will you have a higher chance of witnessing Lady Aurora work her magic, you will also have the fantastic delight of travelling to a region that very few tourists ever venture.

Few landscapes will leave you as humbled and inspired as the vast expanses of Canada’s Yukon.

The ancient peaks and glaciated valleys are as wild as you can get, yet accessing them is surprisingly easy with a fantastic highway system navigating between the main towns.

The best way to explore the territory is by renting an RV and taking your time on a road trip, using the capital of Whitehorse as the launch point.

Once you’ve collected your motorhome it’s time to hit the road, with most travellers taking the Golden Circle Route to dive into some of Yukon’s most spectacular destinations.

This road trip itinerary takes you to Haines Junction and Kluane National Park, the location of the planet’s largest non-polar icefield.

Spend the night at Mount Logan Lodge then continue on your way to Haines in Alaska, where you can see grizzlies feasting on salmon in the Chilkoot River.

Afterwards take the ferry to Skagway then drive north to Carcross before finishing off back in Whitehorse.

Travelling the route in an RV allows you to park up at the edge of stunning emerald lakes and venture off-the-beaten-path for a few nights sleeping under the stars, all while having the comforts of home with you at all times.

Alternatively, you can take you your motorhome as far north as Dawson City and to the fabled Tombstone National Park, with its ethereal rock formations.

Give yourself at least 10 days to truly enjoy all that these road trip itineraries have to offer.

Canada’s most populous city has an astonishing array of attractions and activities to enjoy , but none can quite compare to the sheer wonder that lies just 120km to the south at Niagara Falls.

Straddling the border of the United States and Canada, and connecting Lake Ontario with Lake Erie, is the turbulent Niagara River and Niagara Falls.

This intense river tumbles over a number of rapids before eventually sending 168,000 cubic metres every single minute off the 50m-high cliffs of Niagara Falls, known as one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls.

A trip to Niagara Falls is a must-do on any Canada bucket list, and while simply standing on the boardwalks that wrap around the falls can be an exhilarating feeling, nothing compares to seeing Niagara Falls from the air.

Book yourself in for an incredible scenic flight by plane or helicopter for a birds-eye view of Niagara Falls.

With tours running for 15-30 minutes it’s the perfect experience for people who want to tick off one of the great things in Canada while being short on time.

On a clear day you’ll be able to see all the way back to Toronto and south into the United States, but chances are you won’t be able to take your eyes off the mist from Niagara Falls as it churns below.

We recommend booking ahead of time if you are visiting Niagara Falls in the summer months. Two fantastic companies to check out are Niagara Air Tours and Niagara Helicopters .

Niagara Falls is definitely one of the best places to visit in Canada!

READ MORE: Check out our latest guide on what to do in Niagara Falls !

The picturesque town of Revelstoke found halfway between Vancouver and Calgary has always been a Mecca for snow sports, going way back to the end of the 19th century when the first ski club in town was created.

Revelstoke’s location where the Monashee and Selkirk mountain ranges meet brings an abundance of snowfall to this winter wonderland, and with the local ski resort boasting the highest vertical drop in North America, it’s little wonder that Revy (as it’s known to locals) is now one of the world’s premier winter destinations

While Revelstoke Mountain Resort is undoubtedly world-class, for a truly unrivalled experience you will need to book your adventure holiday to include a couple of days of heli-skiing to make the most of Canada’s most epic mountain terrain.

A number of companies operate fantastic heli-skiing and boarding trips, taking off just 5 minutes from downtown.

CMH is the largest operator in town and can do everything from one-day to week-long trips into the peaks, catering for all ability levels and styles.

Another excellent company is Eagle Pass Heliski , who are a bit more boutique in their offerings, and are the go-to provider for the hordes of professional athletes who frequent Revy.

Besides being Canada’s heli capital, Revelstoke is also one of the coolest towns to visit on any trip to the Great White North.

During our 3 years living in Canada, driving our campervan from Vancouver to Newfoundland and back, we spent 18 months living in this quaint mountain village.

To say our heart lies in Revy is an understatement, and we urge all travellers to add this place to their Canadian bucket list.

There’s no shortage of unique, luxury accommodation experiences you can find in Canada (many of which you’ll find right here in this article), from ice hotels to fairytale castles and everything in between.

However if you prefer to have your accommodation a bit more exclusive and boutique, then why not charter a helicopter to be whisked away deep into the mountains for a few nights in a wilderness lodge?

Some of the most famous ones are found outside of Banff and Revelstoke, but our personal favourites are the award-winning selection owned by Bella Coola Heli Sports .

The high-end operator runs 5 remote lodges in the Bella Coola Valley and close to Anahim Lake, both of which are only a 70-minute flight from Vancouver.

Once you arrive at HQ you’ll jump in a private helicopter to fly off to your lodge of choice. From the moment you land you’ll be treated to an exquisite experience that is often only reserved for the rich and famous.

Settle in by the fire and sip on local wines while your guides brief you on any number of outdoor activities you can enjoy from your new base camp, including hiking, downhill and cross country skiing and wildlife watching.

You’ll be one of just a handful of guests at any of these lodges (or you can even rent an entire place just for your friends and family), and your backyard will be millions of acres of wilderness terrain all around.

While you can’t go wrong with a few nights at any of their accommodations, if you had to choose one go for the Tweedsmuir Park Lodge , which was named one of the Magnificent 7 Luxury Wilderness Lodges of Canada .

If you prefer to experience Canada’s incredible landscapes by ship rather than helicopter, head to the rugged coast of British Columbia to sail the Inside Passage.

This stunning coastal route stretches from the northern tip of Washington State all the way to Alaska, speckled with over 1000 islands and surrounded by towering peaks and dense, remote pine forests.

Many travellers catch a glimpse of the archipelago’s beauty by taking the ferry from the mainland to Vancouver Island, but to truly experience all that the Inside Passage has to offer jump on a cruise ship or yacht and head north.

There are a number of luxury cruise operators that ply these waters of British Columbia, yet only a handful depart from Vancouver.

We recommend joining Aurora Expeditions onboard one of their cruises in Canada or Alaska.

Being a company with smaller ships and tour groups, guests have the chance to go Zodiac-cruising or kayaking, enjoy wildlife encounters with orcas, grizzlies and sea lions, and get up close to phenomenal landscapes that few other cruise companies can access.

There’s a lot more to do in Manitoba than hanging out with polar bears and and beluga whales in Churchill.

This central province is home to the cosmopolitan capital of Winnipeg , complete with its riverside cafe precinct and world-recognised Human Rights Museum, and the incredibly diverse Riding Mountain National Park where bison roam the plains and hiking trails twist their way through ancient forests.

You can easily spend a few weeks visiting all the amazing places in Manitoba , but our personal favourite destination is Falcon Lakes.

This picturesque, bucolic destination, located almost in the exact geographic centre of the country in Whiteshell Provincial Park, offers a perfect getaway for travellers looking for an authentic Canadian experience.

Rent a car and hit the road towards the family-owned Falcon Trails Resort , where locals Barb and Craig Christie have built a number of luxury log cabins right on the edge of the lake in what we described during our visit back in 2019 as the ‘ most Canadian place in Canada ‘.

The log cabins are exquisitely built, and from the moment you step inside you’ll instantly be greeted by the warm scent of a fire burning and aged cedar wood.

As tempting as it is to simply sit by the fire with a good book and glass of red watching the world pass by, step outside and jump in a canoe to paddle around the lakes or go for a hike to the ‘Top of the World’ lookout for unrivalled views all the way into the United States.

Spending a few nights at Falcon Lakes is a perfect way to break up a cross-Canada road trip , or for those who wish to experience a unique and off-the-beaten-path part of the country.

The Canadian Arctic is a sprawling, diverse and magnificent region, where the sun doesn’t set in the summer months (or rise in the winter), abundant wildlife roam the sea and ice, and Indigenous people live in traditional ways in one of the harshest environments imaginable.

A journey into the Arctic is something most intrepid travellers dream of but few realise, however with Canada’s bustling tourism industry offering a number of unique opportunities to explore this remote region, it has never been easier than ever to venture towards the North Pole.

Most people choose to travel to the Canadian Arctic onboard an expedition ship, with routes such as the Northwest Passage and Baffin Island allowing guests to take part in a number of adventures safely and comfortably.

It’s in the Arctic that you may be fortunate enough to spot polar bears, Arctic foxes, bowhead whales, narwhals and walruses, while also learning all about the fascinating cultures of the Inuit communities.

Operators such as Quark Expeditions provide opportunities for hiking, Zodiac cruising, kayaking and sightseeing alongside majestic icebergs, glaciers and fjords.

Most trips to the Arctic require charter flights from Edmonton, Ottawa (Canada’s capital city) or other Canadian cities, and your tour operator will take care of all the logistics for you.

There’s a good chance that when you were thinking of all the incredible things to do in Canada, sleeping inside a luxury hotel made entirely of ice wasn’t on your original list.

But proving the Great White North has almost every experience you can imagine, you can do just that just 45 minutes outside of Quebec City!

Every winter the marvellous Hôtel de Glace is built from scratch using huge blocks of ice then carved out using specialised techniques and tools from the nation’s best ice artists.

The entire structure is made out of ice, from the walls and ceilings right through to the beds, furniture, and each room and hallway is adorned with intricate ice sculptures.

Walking around Hôtel de Glace as a day visitor is fascinating enough, but for ultimate bragging rights book in for a night in one of the exclusive hotel rooms.

Despite sleeping inside a building made entirely out of ice you don’t have to worry about freezing. Guests are given thermal mattresses and thick, 4-season sleeping bags to keep warm at night.

Make sure you grab a pre-dinner cocktail in the ice bar beforehand, where drinks are served in glasses made of, you guessed it, ice, and guests mingle beneath the enormous ice chandelier.

After visiting this hotel, enjoy all the highlights of Quebec City. Read our article of the other best things to do in Quebec City to see how else you can fill your time here without missing the other must-see Canada attractions.

Kluane National Park in Canada’s Yukon is home to the world’s largest non-polar ice field, and protects an incredibly vast and diverse range of wildlife.

Small sections of the park are accessible for hiking trails, but at over 22,000km² in size the only way to truly appreciate just how immense and beautiful its interior is is to take scenic flight over this spectacular landscape.

Head to the small Haines Junction Airport and jump in a propellor plane with one of the highly experienced pilots at Kluane Glacier Air Tours for a flight you’ll never forget.

The flightseeing adventure soars above the St Elias Mountains, with Canada’s highest peak Mt Logan rising at 5959m tall, and offers unrivalled views of where the north and south arms of the Kaskawulsh Glacier crash together.

Flying over Kluane National Park, with its endangered grizzly population and melting glaciers, will leave you in awe at just how wild the Canadian mountains can be.

You can read more about this once-in-a-lifetime tour, complete with booking details and images, in our blog post .

The famous Fairmont Hotels brand runs some of Canada’s most iconic 5-star accommodations, from Vancouver Island to Quebec City, and each one is worthy of their own write-up.

However if we need to narrow it down to just one for this article on the best things to do in Canada, then staying at their Lake Louise location has to make it to the top of the list.

Set in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Banff National Park, right at the edge of the legendary glacial-fed lake, the extravagant Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has been a bucket list item for accommodation aficionados ever since it opened in 1911.

The tastefully-designed luxury hotel offers jaw-dropping views over Lake Louise and the Victoria Glacier, and houses a number of award-winning restaurants and bars.

The historic Victoria Ballroom has floor to ceiling windows that overlook the lake, perfect for weddings and special events, and you’ll also find a heated indoor swimming pool, a fitness centre and high-end spa.

The real star of the show though is without a doubt the lake itself, and guests can spend their summer days wandering around the manicured hiking paths or canoeing on the lake, and in winter try their hands at ice skating or skiing.

Read more about all the other incredible things to do in Banff National Park during your visit here.

Montreal, the bustling and vibrant city found in the French-speaking province of Quebec, feels distinctly more European than it does Canadian.

From the cobblestoned streets of Old Montreal to the Portuguese vibe in La Plateau-Mont-Royal, it’s easy to get swept away in the unique culture that has weaved its way into this cosmopolitan city.

White visitors truly are spoilt for choice when wondering what to do in Montreal , it’s the annual Festival International de Jazz de Montreal that sits firmly at the top of the list for not-to-be-missed experiences.

First organised in 1980 to astounding acclaim, today the festival is one of the most prestigious events in Quebec.

Every year hundreds of local and international musicians, artists and performers descend on the city for two weeks of joyous entertainment, with massive crowds relishing in the party atmosphere.

A number of different venues are used all over the city, including clubs, town squares and even in the streets, with many of the concerts being held for free.

It’s not just jazz musicians you’ll find playing gigs here though. Some of the artists that have performed in the past include Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, Ben Harper, Chuck Berry, John Butler and B.B. King, just to name a few.

Seeing Montreal come alive every year for the Jazz Festival is a tremendous experience, and it’s well worth timing your trip around the annual event.

Canada’s unique list of wildlife experiences is almost never-ending, and while travellers here often have a list of animals they’d love to see, some are more difficult, or dangerous, to spot than others.

The grizzly bear is one such species, and despite having a healthy population throughout the west coast, spotting a grizzly in the wild isn’t something most people are fortunate enough to do.

Luckily a number of responsible ecotourism operators offer fantastic opportunities to get as close as possible to these animals without putting yourself, or the bears, at risk.

British Columbia’s west coast is untamed and remote place, with the only access being via boat or seaplane.

The untouched wilderness has allowed native species to thrive, creating a diversity and abundance of animals not seen anywhere else in Canada.

Only a select few accommodation operators have been granted licenses to open in this region, with two of highest-regarded being Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge and Nimmo Bay.

Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge offers guests a range of signature experiences, including canyoning, heli-hiking , fly fishing and wildlife viewing.

The cuisine is personally foraged daily by the chefs and served alongside premium wines and liquors, all included in your stay of course.

At night you can rest your head inside one of their luxury safari tents, or relax with a spa treatment.

Nimmo Bay has a similar offering, but with guests staying in custom-built cabins and taking part in some other adventurous activities such as kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding.

Nimmo Bay is also located inside the Great Bear Rainforest, home to the mystical Kermode Bear (or Spirit Bear), which is one of the rarest animals in the entire world.

Both Nimmo Bay and Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge are all-inclusive resorts, and hold a large respect for the First Nations people that traditionally call this area their home.

When winter arrives in Canada an entire new playground emerges, with previously impassable terrain suddenly becoming epic thanks to blankets of fresh snow and solid ice.

This is when hordes of people descend on the ski resorts to carve up the runs, but if you’re looking for a different type of winter experience why not try something a little more traditional?

Dog mushing has been used as a means of transport by Canada’s remote northern communities for centuries, and while no longer as popular as it once was thanks to inventions like snowmobiles, tourism and recreation has kept the dog sledding industry alive.

Whistler, Banff and Mont Tremblant are some of the more common destinations to try dog sledding on short tours, but if you want to really learn about this historic activity head to the Yukon and take part in a multi-day mushing expedition.

Just an hour from Whitehorse the family-owned Sky High Wilderness Ranch offers highly engaging dog sledding tours that can help take a complete novice to a confident musher in no time.

Their 4-day Taste of Mushing adventure is designed for people who like their holidays a little bit more hands-on.

After a safety and operations briefing on the first day you are assigned 5 huskies as part of your team, and these pups will become your best friends over the next few days.

You are trained up on how to rig up the sled, how to provide care for your dogs and skills on sledding, and then you hit the trails for hours of heart-racing fun.

Dog sledding is not only a great way to explore the outdoors, it’s also an engaging activity, requiring both physical effort (running and controlling your sled) and mental engagement (keeping tabs on all of your dogs and responding to their needs).

For many, dog sledding is the best way to experience the winter landscape. The speed at which you travel over fresh snow, or through forests with snow laden boughs creates a truly immersive way to see Canada’s North.

While out mushing for the day, you and your tour guides will be stopping to take in the scenery, enjoy delicious lunches and taking breaks for some husky selfies.

In the evenings after you have fed and put away the pups you head back to your private log cabin to freshen up, and then can enjoy a nutritious and hearty meal with the staff and other guests.

This is an incredible Canadian experience for anybody who loves dogs and physical activity, and there’s no better place to do it than up in the Yukon.

While most international tourists to Canada tend to focus on the mountains of BC and Alberta, or the suave cities in Ontario and Quebec, the Maritime provinces remain largely untouched, despite their abundance of gorgeous landscapes and incredible attractions.

Nova Scotia is the crown jewel of the Maritimes, with picturesque beaches, funky fishing villages and the visually spectacular Cape Breton Island beckoning off-beat travellers from around the world.

Besides the natural beauty, Nova Scotia is also one of the best whale watching destinations on the planet!

Every summer humpbacks migrate south from the Arctic to breed and raise their young off the coast of Nova Scotia.

While it’s possible to see these magnificent creatures all along the Atlantic coast, Nova Scotia has emerged as one of the best locations in the world to see them up close.

The calving and breeding season runs from June through September, which means if you want to go whale watching in Nova Scotia, this is when you’ll need to plan your trip.

Besides humpbacks, you can also spot minke, fin and right whales! Make sure you book in for a tour with a licensed operator to see these wonderful species in the wild.

The Icefields Parkway stretching from the mountain village of Banff right through the Canadian Rockies to Jasper National Park is regarded as one of the world’s best road trips, and no trip to Canada would be complete without making the drive at least once (we’ve done it at least a dozen times and it never gets old).

The sheer variety of terrain you’ll see on the Icefields Parkway road trip is so diverse it’s hard to believe it’s even real. Craggy mountain peaks, glaciers, pristine lakes, waterfalls… The list goes on.

There are a number of unique attractions to do along the way, including taking a tour on the Athabasca Glacier, hiking for views of Peyto Lake and checking out the awe-inspiring Sunwapta Falls.

Jasper National Park itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and there are lots of amazing things to do in Jasper .

If you’re planning a road trip and want to see some of the best scenery in Canada, the Icefields Parkway is, without a doubt, your number one highway.

READ NEXT: Be sure to check out our post on the most comprehensive guide to driving the Icefields Parkway !

Some parts of Canada are so isolated that even a pin on a map barely allows you to truly comprehend where in the world it is.

The northern tip of Baffin Island in Nunavut is one such place.

Less than 5000 tourists visit the Nunavut territory every single year, making it one of the least-visited places in the country.

Those that do make it out here though are usually searching for one thing – wildlife. And a little-known destination called the ‘floe edge’ offers some of the best wildlife experiences money can buy.

The floe edge is also known as the ‘line of life’, and is a long line of floating sea ice that separates the ice pack from open water.

Located in Pond Inlet at the top of Baffin Island and requiring 2 days of travel to get here, the nutrient-rich waters along the floe edge brings in all kinds of species, including polar bears, walrus, bowhead and beluga whales, bearded and ringed seals, narwhals and over 200,000 migratory bids.

The best way to spend time by the floe edge is to book a wildlife safari with Arctic Kingdom , the experts in floe edge adventures.

After arriving in Pond Inlet jump in a sled to travel to their camp located right on the ice, and just a few kilometres from the edge of the Arctic sea.

Inuit guides will then take you to the edge of the floe break where you may be fortunate enough to see one of nature’s greatest spectacles – a polar bear catching a seal!

The Inuit guides are experts in wildlife and have learned from Inuit forefathers how to survive in this harsh environment.

Your accommodation will be in specially-designed tents, with enough creature comforts to keep you warm and safe throughout your stay.

Due to the logistics and remoteness of these guided tours, Arctic Kingdom only runs a couple of trips every summer, so make sure you book well ahead of time to secure your position.

Sometimes you just want to pamper yourself in luxury, surrounded by the sounds of nature and let the worries of the world fade away as the sun sets behind a forested peak.

If that sounds like your kind of getaway, then you need to book a few nights in Sonora Resort .

This wilderness 5-star resort located in the depths of British Columbia’s west coast is set amongst the country’s most alluring natural environments.

Only accessible by plane or boat, Sonora Resort is a private sanctuary hidden away in the archipelago between the mainland and Vancouver Island and set beneath towering mountains and boreal forests.

Guests are spoilt for choice on things to do here, and whether you love wildlife, adventure or wellness, you’ll have no problem filling your days with an array of exciting popular activities.

The marine-rich waters are a haven for humpback whales, orcas and porpoises, while the river inlets are often filled with grizzly bears gorging themselves on salmon.

Back at the sanctuary the award-winning spa has a number of treatments designed to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul.

All of this is matched with all-inclusive fine dining and unparalleled service.

Sonora Resort is truly where eco-adventure meets luxury, and you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more idyllic location for your ultimate Canadian bucket list.

Located in another one of Canada’s far-flung destinations is the Torngat Mountains Base Camp and Research Station , found at the edge of Lake Melville in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Simply getting here is an adventure in itself, with travellers needing to take a number of chartered flights then a boat trip to finally reach the base camp, situated 200km north of Labrador’s northernmost community.

The effort is entirely worth it though, because you have now arrived in the heart of polar bear country, casting your eyes on the fabled Torngat Mountains, a range that few humans will ever get to see.

The camp is owned and operated by Parks Canada and the local Inuit people, who conduct wildlife and meteorological research, while also welcoming a small number of intrepid travellers every summer.

From the moment you arrive you will realise just how wild this place is – armed guards escort you everywhere outside of the gated camp, as the polar bear population in the region is immense and deadly.

You’ll be under excellent protection though, and during the day the Inuit guides happily take you on mesmerising hikes deep into the Torngats, to the waters edge for a chance to spot wildlife, or even into the labs to observe scientists busy at work in the active research station.

At night guests cosy up by the fire or inside their heated dome accommodation, but you’ll want to stick your head outside as this is also one of the best places in Newfoundland and Labrador to capture the Northern Lights.

A trip to the Torngats is sure to be one of the most memorable things to do in Canada you can ever experience, and the words that often comes to those who have made the journey out here is ‘life changing’.

The waters off of Vancouver Island are frequented by an abundance of different marine species, including humpback whales, porpoises and even orcas.

While it’s possible to spot these beautiful creatures from the deck of your ferry or off in the distance from the beaches of somewhere like Alert Bay, by far the closest experience you can have is to be right there in the water with them.

Kingfisher Wilderness Adventures offers just such an experience, giving kayakers a chance to paddle alongside resident orcas as they fish in the waters off of British Columbia.

Kingfisher is located in Port McNeill, an incredibly picturesque little village on the northern end of Vancouver Island. 

The company offers a variety of different kayak experiences which take you out on the waters of Johnstone Strait and Blackfish Sound, with orca encounters being the ultimate dream.

September is the best time to kayak with the orcas, and you can even organise multi-day expeditions that allow you to camp out on the remote beaches of Vancouver Island.

The Yukon Territory makes one final appearance in our things to do in Canada article with an adventure that mixes history, culture, wildlife and nature all into one.

The Yukon River stretches for 3190km from Atlin Lake all the way to the Bering Sea in Alaska, and while paddling the entire stretch is not something for the fainthearted, a popular journey is to jump in a canoe and float 730km from Whitehorse to Dawson City.

This 2-week adventure is suitable for people of all canoeing skill levels (even beginners), and once you pack your raft with all the food and camping gear you’ll need for the 14 days, it’s time to push out into the wilderness.

Your days will be filled with the relaxing sounds of your paddle breaking the calm water surface as you gently drift towards your destination.

In the evenings you simply pull up at a clearing and pitch your tent, falling asleep with the stars lighting up the night sky.

There are very few rapids for this stretch of the Yukon River, so you really have little to worry about other than where you want to have lunch.

If you don’t have your own canoe then get in touch with the team at Ruby Range who can organise canoe rental and one-way transport, or better yet, join them for a guided tour .

Highly acclaimed and regularly awarded as one of the world’s top hotels, Fogo Island Inn is located at ‘one of the 4 corners of the Earth’, on the eastern shore of an island off of an island in Newfoundland.

The island itself is accessible only via chartered flight or by boat, and once you arrive the only thing standing between you and the European continent is the turbulent and humbling Atlantic Ocean.

The isolated location doesn’t mean your amenities will be lacking though. The Fogo Inn Hotel, designed by leading local architect Todd Saunders, has some of the nicest accommodation and dining options on the entire east coast.

The rooms offer high windows with uninterrupted views over the sea, and it’s not uncommon to see icebergs silently float past on their way south from the Arctic.

The Fogo Island Inn is all about community and sustainability, and the owners are committed to the preservation of the local culture and traditions while operating as close to carbon net zero as possible.

The point of your stay is more about relaxation than adventure, and the days are yours to do as you please.

Choose from a variety of activities such as whale watching tours, pottery classes, cultural exhibitions with the local Indigenous people, hiking, fishing or even a spa treatment.

Fogo Island Inn is open year round, and each of the 7 (yes, 7) seasons offer a different experience.

Every September, high up in the Arctic at the edge of a distant lake in Nunavut, 350,000 caribou migrate across the open tundra in one of the world’s greatest wildlife events.

Witnessing the annual migration as the caribou wander between their calving grounds is a sight to behold, but the remote location requires expert logistics and planning to capture.

The best way to see this incredible event is to book an expedition with a company like Weber Arctic , who can take care of the charter flights, permits and accommodation to get you into the heart of the action.

Departing from Yellowknife onboard a small plane, you’ll touch down at the edge of Ennadai Lake to take part in 6 days of dramatic wildlife immersion.

It’s not just the migrating caribou that you’ll be walking amongst. Wolves, wolverines and even bears frequent the tundra, gorging on plants to prepare for the upcoming winter.

The experienced wildlife guides will lead guests into the heart of the herd, using planes, boats and your own feet to get you as close to the action as safely possible.

In the evenings you’ll relax in absolute comfort inside their purpose-built 5-star Arctic Haven Wilderness Lodge, with delicious meals featuring locally-sourced ingredients included in your stay.

The best time to see the caribou is in the springtime (April and May) and fall (late August to early October).

Canada’s Northwest Passage is an infamous stretch of sea that navigates through the remote reaches of the Arctic, and while most people who travel here do so onboard an expedition ship, you can now stay on the ground in the northernmost fly-in lodge on the planet.

Arctic Watch Wilderness Lodge is located 800km north of the Arctic Circle and provides 16 private cabins for guests to use as a base for exploring this unique part of Canada.

This is a destination for true adventure-seekers, with Arctic Watch offering the opportunity to go kayaking, paddle boarding, rafting, hiking, fishing and mountain biking beneath the Midnight Sun.

It’s not just the activities that will take your breath away though – the wildlife encounters are as incredible as you’ll find almost anywhere else in the world.

This far north you’re in the heart of polar bear country, and if you’re lucky you won’t just catch a glimpse of these huge predators, but may also spot Arctic foxes, muskox and even beluga whales.

The Great Bear Rainforest is widely acclaimed for being one of the last pristine pieces of wilderness on earth, home to a dazzling array of wildlife.

Set on the coast of British Columbia and accessed through the Inside Passage, most people that venture here do so in one of the eco-lodges (as we’ve highlighted above), or as part of a large cruise that navigates its way north to Alaska.

For those that want a more intimate and slow experience, however, sailing the edge of the rainforest on a luxury yacht is the perfect way to do so.

Bluewater Adventures has a number of stunning vessels that allow a small number of guests unrivalled access to the inlets and bays of the Great Bear Rainforest, while searching for grizzly bears, black bears, and the mystical Kermode bear, better known as the Spirit Bear.

The purpose of their trips is not just photography and wildlife experiences – it’s all about education, and you’ll be joined by expert local guides who impart their wisdom of the nature and culture found around this area.

Bluewater Adventures put a large emphasis on the First Nations people of the region, putting part of their profits directly into local communities while helping guests learn all about their history.

While the obvious highlight would be to spot the elusive Spirit Bear, guests also have the opportunity to see humpbacks bubble netting, orcas hunting and eagles soaring above, all from the yacht’s deck.

If you’ve made the trip to Yellowknife in Northwest Territories there’s a good chance you’re seeking one of two things – wildlife or the Northern Lights.

If it’s the latter, you’re in luck, as Yellowknife provides one of the best opportunities to see the Aurora Borealis anywhere in the world.

While you can spot Lady Aurora from just about anywhere in town, it’s worth taking a trip 25 minutes out of the city to the Aurora Village , where you can observe light displays from just outside a traditional teepee.

Aurora Village is 100% Aboriginal-owned, and the managers have set up a truly unique compound right on the edge of their own private lake that is almost as photogenic as the Northern Lights themselves.

While Yellowknife is quite cold at any time of year, let alone in the heart of winter, guests don’t have to freeze while watching the Aurora thanks to the custom-built heated seats that swivel 360 degrees.

And when the Aurora Borealis isn’t on display you can relax in the heated teepees or feast on the best food in Northwest Territories.

No list of the best things to do in Canada would be complete without acknowledging and respecting the First Nations Aboriginal people that have called this land home for thousands of years.

One of the best places to learn about these fascinating Indigenous people is Haida Gwaii , the spectacular archipelago found off the northwest coast of British Columbia.

The Haida people have long lived harmoniously on the islands as fishermen and traders, and today are still the native custodians of this beautiful and ancient land.

While there is no shortage of natural wonders to keep visitors busy here, from secluded beaches to old-growth forests, it’s diving into the First Nations culture that will leave the most lasting impression on travellers.

Haida Gwaii is speckled with totem poles, hand-carved by the Haida people to represent their family ancestry, and you can even visit a number of galleries to see new ones being made in person.

You can easily spend a week in Haida Gwaii, exploring all the hiking trails, foraging for berries or fishing, but your visit should always begin at the Haida Heritage Centre to kickstart your cultural adventure.

The nearby Gwaii Haanas National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well.

DISCLAIMER: This article was made in partnership with Destination Canada. All thoughts, opinions and hours spent planning our next trip to this incredible country are, as always, our own.

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

Getting Around Magnetic Island – ‘How to’ Transportation Guide

The Ultimate GUIDE to the Best MAGNETIC ISLAND BEACHES and Bays

14 Best Day Trips From Reykjavik, Iceland (2024 Guide)

Related Posts

Spontaneous travel – why we don’t follow an itinerary, sailing the chilean fjords on a skorpios glacier cruise, our best (and shittiest) travel experiences from two years on the road, 5 days in cusco, the sacred valley and machu picchu, 10 thoughts on “the 30 best things to do in canada – ultimate bucket list”.

Thanks for sharing the information, it’s a useful travel guide article. Good luck for the future

very an amazing post. thank you:)

Wow what a helpful site, would share this to friends

Canada is always in my bucket list and Planning Canada trip from last 3 years. I really love to read your post and hope I’ll also visit all these monument on my trip. Thank You

Fantastic post, thanks a lot for sharing this as it comes with a lot of details and has been very helpful

You are welcome. So happy it was helpful. 🙂

Very in details post. Thanks.

Glad you liked the article. Thanks for reading. 🙂

Banff is definitely on my bucket list. That and whale watching at Prince Edward Island or thereabouts.

Banff is a magical place, Priya, and you will fall in love with it when you get a chance to visit. Prince Edward Island is an amazing destination too. Can’t beat whale watching in the Maritimes.

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in canada for 2023-2024.

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

Jasper National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Kluane National Park and Reserve

Saint John, New Brunswick

You May Be Interested In

Best Places to Visit in the USA for 2023

Best Adventure Vacations in the U.S.

Best places to hike in the usa.

Best Places to Visit in Winter

Best National Parks in Canada

Best Family Vacations in Canada

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

15 best places to visit in

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

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

The Rockies

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

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

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

Old Québec City

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

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

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

​​Bay of Fundy

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

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

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

12 Incredible Places to Visit in Canada

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

• Copy Link copied

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

Photo by Michelle Heimerman

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

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

1. Banff National Park, Alberta

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

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

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

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

Photo by Lance Anderson/Unsplash

2. Whistler, British Columbia

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

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

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

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

Photo by Brendan George Ko

3. Prince Edward Island

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

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

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

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

Photo by Billie Cohen

4. Halifax, Nova Scotia

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

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

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

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

Photo by Vadim.Petrov/Shutterstock

5. Fundy National Park, New Brunswick

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

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

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

Photo by Dalma Dioszegi/Unsplash

6. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

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

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

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

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

Photo by Andre Jodoin

7. Montreal, Quebec

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

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

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

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

Photo by Linda Szeto/Shutterstock

8. Haida Gwaii, British Columbia

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

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

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

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

Photo courtesy of Canadian Tourism Commission

9. Toronto, Ontario

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

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

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

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

Photo by Mike Benna/Unsplash

10. Vancouver, British Columbia

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

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

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

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

Photo by f11photo/Shutterstock

11. Ottawa, Ontario

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

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

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

Kelowna is located in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley.

Photo by Kolby Milton/Unsplash

12. Kelowna, British Columbia

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

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

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

Roaming Required

25 incredible places to visit in canada.

Last updated: 25 June 2023

Let me just say this right from the start, Canada has to be one of the most beautiful places on the planet ! OK, so we haven’t had the opportunity to explore ALL of Canada (yet) but we have plans to return soon and visit more of this incredible country. So in the meantime we’re thrilled to share with you some of our favourite places to visit in Canada, well technically our favourite places in Alberta and British Columbia 😍

If you’re reading this then I presume that you’re probably interested in heading to Canada soon and, if so, boy are you in for the adventure of a lifetime ! I don’t think that it’s an exaggeration to say that our road trip through Alberta and British Columbia was one of the best adventures we’ve ever had, and that’s saying a lot.

One of my favourite travel quotes is “ travel far enough, you meet yourself ” and I think that perfectly sums up our Great Canadian Adventure. We experienced moments which were the epitome of this quote, like the time we were sitting on the side of the road gazing out across a frozen pristine lake with staggering snow-capped mountain peaks in the foggy distance, the only sound, the cracking of the ice. The magnificence of nature. It was in these quiet moments that we marveled at the splendour of the natural world and felt incredibly small in the grand scheme of things. In other words, it was really pretty and we were left speechless 😉

Favourite Places to Visit in  Canada

I’ve put the following 32 photos from 25 incredible places in the order that we took them so that it might be helpful to you when planning your own Great Canadian Adventure. These weren’t the only the only stops we made during our entire road trip but these are among some of the best photos we took so if you’re interested in more photos or insights for your travel planning then don’t hesitate to drop us a line 😊 So with that being said, let’s have a look at a 32 INCREDIBLE photos from 25 of our favourite places to visit in Canada .

Stop 1: Capilano River Regional Park

Welcome to the Capilano River Regional Park , it’s the perfect place to stop for a picnic and with views like this it, it’s hard to resist! Located a short 5 min drive from the world-famous Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. When we visited there were plenty of people enjoying the view and with wide open space it didn’t really make an impact. One point to note, the grassy area with the view doesn’t have any picnic tables so keep that in mind. There are tables to the side but they don’t have this view…which is kind of the whole point, right?

Stop 2: The town of Pemberton

We discovered Pemberton completely by accident! We were heading north along the 99 road from Whistler to Mt Currie but due to an avalanche we needed to stop in Pemberton and await the next road closure update. What a perfect place to stop. We’ve never been so happy to be delayed and spend time just admiring the view.

Stop 3: Lillooet Lake Road

We left Pemberton and headed north along the 99 road until we hit the avalanche road closure! It turned out that Google Maps was wrong and the road wasn’t clear and it was going to be a 3 hour wait to find out if the road was going to be clear. Faced with a challenge of waiting it out or sitting in the car and keep moving, we opted for the latter, which isn’t a bad thing when we came across this view. Too good not to stop, we pulled over and admired the view 😍

Stop 4: Three Valley Lake

The Trans-Canada Highway from Kamloops to Revelstoke took us by the extremely picturesque Three Valley Lake . You’ll know when you’re approaching it because you will see the Three Valley Lake Chateau in the distance, it looks like a red castle! As you get closer, you will see the hotel up close as well as the Ghost Town , a series of kitschy historic buildings which creates the 1800’s era of the Pioneers.   

Stop 5: Trans-Canada Highway

Once you admire the still waters of Three Valley Lake, hit the road again and continue driving the Trans-Canada Highway towards Revelstoke and take in the views. Seriously, it was like driving through a postcard 💖 I will never forget what it felt like being on the open road and having this view surround us, it felt like as far from real life as possible.

Stop 6: The Road to Banff

And just when you thought that the scenery couldn’t get any more dramatic, the final stretch towards Banff National Park raises the stakes! The only word I can think of is STAGGERING ! The mountain ranges were spectacular! If you’re travelling with a friend, slow down and take plenty of photos because this view needs to be captured.

Stop 7: The View from the Banff Gondola

The Banff Gondola provides a spectacular view like none other 😍 The opportunity to take a photo from the sky really puts things into perspective and made us love the Canadian landscape even more. It takes about a full 8 minutes to reach the summit and it’s 8 minutes of BEAUTY !

Stop 8: The Top of Banff Gondola

Is the 8 minute Banff Gondola journey worth taking to the summit? Definitely 😍

Once you reach the top of the Sulphur Mountain you’ll be treated to an incredible view, a view which makes you feel like you are actually on top of the world. However, in addition to this, there’s also some really informative exhibits inside the centre which are worth visiting. Oh, and there’s a bear statue on the observation deck made out of mosaic mirror pieces which is ridiculously cool #glitterbear

Stop 9: Lake Louise

Welcome to Lake Louise .  The turquoise crystal clear waters of the most well-known lake in Banff National Park, if not in all of Canada, is a MUST-VISIT during your road trip through Alberta. We visited in May so the lake was still frozen but there were pockets of blue peeking out from beneath freshly fallen snow, given a hint of the dazzling waters that Lake Louise is known for.

Our suggestion is to take your time and soak in as much of the grandeur as possible.

Stop 10: Lake Louise

If the crowds of people get a little too much for you at the main entrance to Lake Louise then it’s worthwhile taking a walk because 5 min in either direction will give you a bit of space to yourself another perspective to appreciate the view.

Stop 11: Waterfowl Lakes, Icefields Parkway

After spending the morning at Lake Louise, we hit the road and commenced our journey along the world-famous Icefields Parkway (93 road). The Icefields Parkway is considered to be one of the world’s greatest scenic drives and after driving it, we couldn’t agree more!

One of our favourite stops along the Parkway was Waterfowl Lakes , which was about an hour drive from Lake Louise. Roadside parking was available and unlike our stop at the frozen Bow Lake, we could walk right up to the water’s edge. This provided a unique opportunity to just take a quiet moment and appreciate the view.

Stop 12: Waterfowl Lakes, Icefields Parkway

I had a hard time trying to decide which of the Waterfowl Lakes photos I wanted to include in this point because I loved them both so much so I decided to include both. Doesn’t the view look like a postcard? Seriously, the beauty of Waterfowl Lakes was simply mind-blowing 💕

Stop 13: Howse Pass Viewpoint

And speaking of postcard perfect views, this is Howse Pass Viewpoint and where we stopped for lunch. Yup, picnic lunch on a bench with this view… just spectacular. Howse Pass Viewpoint is located on the Icefields Parkway, near Saskatchewan River Crossing, just before the David Thompson Highway intersection.

Stop 14: Weeping Wall

Located 25 min north of the Howse Pass Viewpoint is the Weeping Wall , a section of cliffs which, during summer, has cascading waterfalls which gives the appearance of a crying mountain. During our May visit, we did see several waterfalls but I imagine that during the warmer months it’s much more intense. Oh, and during the height of winter, the waterfalls free and ice climbers ascend to the top! Incredible!

Stop 15: Valley Floor (Opposite Weeping Wall)

Literally located opposite the Weeping Wall, take a walk on the valley floor and experience a completely different side of the Icefields Parkway. This is where I appreciated the changing contrasts of the landscape, everywhere we looked there was something else to marvel at. We spent longer than we expected (in typical fashion) and filmed some slow-mo videos with the areas covered in snow and only made it to the middle island of rocks by stone-stepping our way across the small rivers.

Stop 16: Spot the local wildlife

Oh my God! Stop the car! Stop the car!

To say that Roma was excited to see her first bear during our road trip would be a complete and utter understatement! Grabbing her camera, Roma was out of the car in a flash and heading back to the side of the road to photograph this magnificent animal 😍 Roma was quickly joined by other people eager to capture this amazing moment and before long the park rangers arrived and politely asked everyone to get back in their cars and enjoy the rest of their trip. Want to capture your own furry photo? Our advice is to drive slowly along the Icefields Parkway and keep your eyes peeled. M emories for life!  

Stop 17: 93A Scenic Drive

As we continued our drive north towards Jasper along the Icefields Parkway, we decided to take the 93A scenic drive as recommended by our Lonely Planet which is how we came across one of the most tranquil places of our trip. We stood there admiring the view and listening to the sounds of the babbling river and nothing else seemed to matter. It was just us and nature.

I have a 60 second video taken from this stop along the 93A scenic drive and I watch it whenever I need to take a break from the real world and go back to the serenity that we experienced here.

Stop 18: On the Road

“ Nothing behind me, everything ahead of me, as is ever so on the road. ”

– Jack Kerouac, On the Road

Stop 19: Glacier Skywalk

The Glacier Skywalk provides a unique opportunity to to walk on air and experience the Canadian Rockies like never before! Stand 918 feet (280 metres) above ground and look directly beneath you through glass floors! The hardest step is your first on to the glass, I can definitely attest to feeling it in my knees! After you get over that, you tend to be a little too distracted by the gorgeous view to realise just how high above ground you really are. Plus the staff were really friendly and willing to answer all your questions (and you know I had plenty of questions…)

One thing to note, you can’t drive to the Skywalk because all visits start and end at the Columbia Icefields Glacier Discovery Centre along the Icefields Parkway. This means that you will need to drive to the Discovery Centre, park your car (plenty of free parking), and then purchase your tickets from the ticket box, and then take the tour bus there and back.

If you’re a regular road tripper then this may not sound like the most ideal option but believe it or not, it actually works pretty well. There is no time limit at the Skywalk so you just take your time when you’re there and then take the next available bus to back to the Discovery Centre.

The benefit of taking your time is that once the crowds leave, you can have the whole place to yourself!

Stop 20: Glacier Skywalk

Seriously, why wouldn’t you go visit the Glacier Skywalk ?!? Just look at this view!

Stop 21: Goats and Glaciers Lookout

If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’ve stepped into an oil landscape painting then you need to make sure you stop at the Goats & Glaciers L ookout , not too far from the 93A scenic drive turn off, and witness something spectacular.

Doesn’t the view look like a painting? Seriously?!

Stop 22: Horseshoe Lake

Horseshoe Lake is located on the other side the 93A scenic drive exit so we had to double back on ourselves in order to experience both places but Horseshoe Lake was absolutely worth it, it was easily one of the most amazing places we visited during our entire trip. It was also one of the most photogenic too. One tip, once you park your car and walk towards the lake, make sure you find the path which leads you up to the cliff face to take your photos from above. It’s worth it.

Roma and I took a slew of photos and then just sat with each other and watched the scenery unfold in front of us. One of my happiest memories. You MUST add Horseshoe Lake to your Great Canadian Adventure itinerary.

Stop 23: Horseshoe Lake (another perspective)

If you look to the left side of this photo, this is the spot you need to be in order to take the first Horseshoe Lake photo. However, when you first arrive at the lake, this is the view you will be treated to. Take your time and admire the splendour of nature.

Stop 24: Patricia Lake

Patricia Lake was one of places I was most excited about visiting because it holds a special place in history – Project Habakkuk (ok, I promise I’ll be brief). During World War II, it was Geoffrey Pyke who had the idea to construct an aircraft carrier made completely out of ice (later Pykrete – a mix of ice and wood pulp) for use against German U-Boats in the Atlantic Ocean. This idea was approved by Prime Minister Winston Churchill and the green light was given to build a scale model (1:50 scale) and test it in the waters of Patricia Lake, Alberta. Eventually Project Habakkuk was scrapped and the scale model was left to melt and sink into the waters of Patricia Lake, the wreck can still be reached by divers today!

After spending years wanting to visit Patricia Lake and gaze out across the waters where WWII history took place, was it worth it? You better believe it!

Stop 25: Elk Island National Park

Following our drive through Banff and Jasper National Parks, we hit the road and headed towards Edmonton. This is where we discovered the existence of Elk Island National Park , located just 35 min from the middle of Edmonton, it’s a national park which is open round the clock every single day of the year, which makes it perfect for visitors and campers alike.

We drove into the National Park and followed the driving paths to each of the specific areas (Wood Bison, Beaver Pond, Shirley Lake, and many others). We parked the car and headed out to the hiking trails… for views for this one).

Beautiful,right?

Stop 26: Bison in Elk Island National Park

We had hope to see Bison during our visit to Elk Island National Park and look who came out to greet us! I think we almost swerved off the road in excitement seeing our first Bison in real life!

Would I recommend Elk Island National Park? Yes! Oh my goodness, yes!

Stop 27: Kananaskis (K Country)

Following on from our time in Edmonton we headed south towards Calgary because we wanted to experience Kananaskis Country , affectionately referred to K-Country . Kananaskis is home to 4,000 square kilometres of parks, hiking trails, and wildlife aplenty. If you’re a film buff then then you may appreciate that this is where Brokeback Mountain was filmed.

Taking the 40 road though K-Country was wonderfully scenic, and despite the fact that we didn’t encounter any wildlife (as advertised), the roadside stops and magnificent views more than made up for it. Highly recommended.

Stop 28: Kananaskis (another perspective)

Another perspective from our road side stop in Kananaskis Country , what an truly beautiful part of the world

Stop 29: Three Sisters Dam

Our drive through Kananaskis Country ended in a detour along Smith Dorrien Trail due to an unexpected road closure but it actually worked out pretty well because we ended up stopping at Three Sisters Dam , one of the most atmospheric stops in all of our trip.

This stop was one of my favourites because of the sensational view, the grey mist, the low-hanging clouds, and the complete absence of noise.

Stop 30: Port Mann Bridge, Vancouver

After spending a remarkable time exploring Banff, Jasper, Edmonton, and Calgary, we headed back towards Vancouver which meant crossing the ridiculously scenic Port Mann Bridge . Timing was on our side with this photo but make sure your travel companion is ready to take shot, fortunately for me, Roma was ready with her camera in hand.

Stop 31: Dominion Building

This is the interior staircase of the Dominion Building , one of the most beautiful and historic buildings in all of Vancouver. Located in the very trendy neighbourhood of Gastown, the Dominion Building was Vancouver’s first steel-frame high rise. It’s said that the staircase is the most instagrammed staircase in the world…

Stop 32: Vancouver Lookout

And last but by no means least, welcome to the Vancouver Lookout ! There’s no better way to experience Vancouver than by viewing it 167 metres above sea level in a 360 degree purpose-built lookout with really detailed information boards and helpful guides on hand. You know that I love a good bit of history so a good information board is always very much appreciated! Plus free WiFi too!  

Final Thoughts

I think it’s fair to say that if you’ve made it this far into this post then I hope you’re convinced that a visit to Canada MUST be on your To Travel List! And if Canada is already in your travel plans then I hope you’re even more excited to go exploring!   I do have one favour to ask, when you do make it to Canada and you start your own adventure,drop us a line because we want to see your photos and hear all about your travel!

Born and raised in Sydney Australia and currently based in London, I absolutely love exploring the UK and Europe at every opportunity. It still thrills me that all it takes is an hour flight to be in a new country with a completely different history, language, food, and culture that is just waiting to be experienced. We started our blog, Roaming Required, as a way to keep in contact with family and friends, and over the last 10 years, the blog has grown and evolved and it remains a real passion project. We've travelled a lot in the 10 years living in London and there's still plenty more to experience. So, why not join us for the adventure and come roam with us!

Search hotels and more...

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Some of the links used on Roaming Required are affiliate links, which means that if you click on them and make a purchase then may earn a small commission, at absolutely no additional cost to you. This helps keep the lights on at Roaming Required HQ and the content being created. We sincerely thank you for your support.

Comments (13)

Your pictures are amazing ! There are so many beautiful places to visit in Canada, I really like your picture of the Three Valley Lake. And yes you don’t realize how big those mountains are until you compare it to the size of the car ahah.

Thanks Steven for the lovely compliment!

Now I can easily make my itinerary for our family vacation in Canada after reading it, Thank you for sharing this with us.

Canada is just stupidly amazing, I fell in love with it so much! I love your suggestions for some lesser-known spots too!

Thanks so much, Milly 😊 Hearing you loud and clear, driving around Canada is seriously like entering a postcard! One incredible view after another 🎉

This is really cool! I’ve spent more time in the eastern part of Canada (Montreal, St. John, and the Hopewell Rocks are at the top of our list there), but since we live in the western US now I’m SO excited to get to explore more of the western part of Canada as well! We’re just a couple hours drive from Calgary so that’s top of our list.

That’s so awesome!! You must be thrilled to only be a few hours from Calgary, the perfect starting point for another Canadian Adventure!! We’ve seen some amazing photos come out of eastern Canada so our eyes are firmly set there for our next visit 😊

Amazing Place! Great Pictures! Keep ti up!

Thank you, sir. I really appreciate it 😊

Positively stunning photos! You have curated an absolutely breathtaking view of the scenery that is sure to make all of us want to go to Canada. I know I do now!

Aww thanks so much, Carrie 😊 That honestly made my day! I’m thrilled that you love the photos, being able to visit Canada and experience that view is one of best things we’ve ever done!! I can’t wait to see your photos when you visit 🇨🇦

Great post guys, some incredible photos.

Having the car in the Banff photo really puts the amazing backdrop in perspective. I can’t believe you also saw a bear and a bison, these memories will remain with you forever. Thanks for sharing

Thanks so much for the comment, Janis 😊 We couldn’t agree more, the best decision we made was to hire a car! It gave us so much freedom to get around and really travel at our own leisure. Oh and I think we’re still riding high after meeting our roadside friends 🤗 You’re absolutely right, memories for life

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Canada

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Niagara Falls

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Toronto

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ottawa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions on Vancouver Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Calgary

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

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

Official site: https://humanrights.ca/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Explore the Historic Rideau Canal in Ottawa

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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

More on Canada

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

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

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

benedek/Getty Images

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

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

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

Pgiam/Getty Images

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

Tofino, British Columbia

Aditi Das Patnaik/Getty Images

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

Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland

Marc Guitard/Getty Images

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

Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia

Walter Bibikow/Getty Images

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

South Shore, Nova Scotia

MMacKillop/Getty Images

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

Quebec City, Quebec

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

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

Clayoquot Sound, British Columbia

Aaron Black/Getty Images

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

Montreal, Quebec

NicolasMcComber/Getty Images

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

Niagara Falls, Ontario

CHENG FENG CHIANG/Getty Images

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

Golden, British Columbia

Onfokus/Getty Images

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

Joffre Lakes Park, British Columbia

Thierry Francois/500px/Getty Images

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

Cheakamus Lake, British Columbia

Angelafoto/Getty Images

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

Haida Gwaii, British Columbia

Christa Boaz/Getty Images

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

Banff National Park, Alberta

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

Tombstone Territorial Park, Yukon Territory

Lumir Pecold/Getty Images

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

Kluane National Park, Yukon Territory

Robert Postma/Design Pics/Getty Images

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

Somerset Island, Nunavut

Gerald Corsi/Getty Images

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

Bonavista Peninsula, Newfoundland & Labrador

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

Torngat Mountains, Newfoundland & Labrador

Paul Souders/Getty Images

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

Prince Edward Island

shaunl/Getty Images

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

Victoria, British Columbia

David Gn Photography/Getty Images

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

FinanceBuzz

16 Places To Visit in Canada That Tourists Haven’t Overrun (Yet)

Posted: July 28, 2023 | Last updated: July 28, 2023

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

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

Here are 16 places in Canada that will make you feel you've found a hidden gem. Grab your best travel credit card and start making memories.

Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel

Tofino, British Columbia

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

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

Want to learn how to build wealth like the 1%? Sign up for Worthy to get ideas and advice delivered to your inbox.

Newfoundland and Labrador

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

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

Prince Edward Island

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

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

7 Nearly Secret Things to Do If You Fly Southwest

Nova Scotia

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

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

Hopewell Rocks

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

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

The Okanagan Valley

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

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

5 Signs You’re Doing Better Financially Than the Average American

Niagara-on-the-Lake

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

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

Jasper National Park

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

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

The North Shore of Lake Superior

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

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

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

Earn up to 5% cash back when you shop with these leading credit cards

Falcon Lake, Manitoba

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

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

Badlands of Alberta

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

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

Tobermory, Ontario

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

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

Pay no interest until nearly 2025 with these credit cards

Eastern Townships of Quebec

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

Thunder Bay, Ontario

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

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

St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market

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

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

7 savvy moves when you have $1,000 in the bank

Dawson, Yukon

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

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

Pro tip: U.S. auto insurance plans typically cover you north of the border. If you're planning a Canadian road trip,  evaluate your car insurance  to ensure you're getting the best rate on your trip.

Bottom line

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

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

More from FinanceBuzz:

• 7 things to do if you’re barely scraping by financially.
• 12 legit ways to earn extra cash.
• Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.
• 9 simple ways to make up to an extra $200/day

More for You

Megan Fox Signs With UTA

Five teams that botched the 2024 NFL Draft

This is the salary it takes to be considered rich in every state

How Much Beer You'd Have To Drink To Equal A Single Shot Of Liquor

What to Know About the New Student-Loan-Forgiveness Plans

One of these pictures of me is real and the other is AI – but which is which?

I Was Told My Father Was A 'Deadbeat.' After He Died, I Found Out Everything I Knew About Him Was Wrong.

18 Most Common Reasons Women Leave Their Marriages

The 16 worst-paying college majors, five years after graduation

Here’s What the US Minimum Wage Was the Year You Were Born

The Most Famous Food Brands From Every State

15 “As Seen On TV” Products That Are Well Worth The Money

This is one of the most advanced humanoid robots in the world

Ghosts of the USA: The Most Haunted Places in America

Lindsey Graham Confronted on Enquirer's 'Catch and Kill' Plot to Help Trump

I’m a psychologist and mom—here are 3 phrases I wish more parents would say to their kids

Average US annual salary by age revealed – see how you compare

iPhone users in 92 countries received a recent stark warning

John Jacob Astor IV was one of the richest men in the world when he died on the Titanic. Here's a look at his life.

The #1 restaurant chain in America, according to diners—and see the rest of the top 50

10 Breathtaking Less Crowded Locations To Explore In Canada

Cities like Vancouver and Toronto are popular tourist destinations. You will encounter massive crowds around the CN Tower and in Stanley Park.

But if you are tired of visiting these places, try out more remote locations, away from the struggles of city life. And these locations are usually student-friendly. For example, you can hand over your assignment to an essay writing service while you backpack across the most remote places in Canada.

To get you started, we have compiled a list of the most breathtaking locations to explore during your visit to Canada.

Niagara Falls

This awe-inspiring location in Ontario contains several waterfalls. Niagara Falls covers a large territory in Canada and parts of the United States. It is one of the most amazing places in Canada.

Tourists are allowed to go on a breathtaking journey on the water. You could hop on a Maid of The Mist Boat for an adrenaline-packed trip to the 188-foot waterfall.

But if you don’t fancy getting wet, you could view the waterfalls from a distance — in a helicopter. Observation deck tours will give you a better view of the waterfalls, especially during the nighttime displays.

Although some areas around Niagara Falls are crowded, you can find a location outside the hustle and bustle. The Niagara Botanical Garden is a serene destination with a lush and soothing landscape. Also, a quick stop at Marineland should be on your bucket list.

Banff National Park

Banff National Park is the oldest park in Canada. Its remoteness provides the perfect hideaway spot for tourists seeking an escape from the city buzz.

Taking a tour through the park will give you a new appreciation for nature. Any nature-loving tourist will enjoy the raw and untouched vegetation, the tranquility, and the crystal clear multicolored waters. You can join a Gondola ride or paddle a canoe across the lakes scattered all over the park.

Banff National Park is also home to all sorts of wildlife, including the menacing grizzly bear. Even though you are unlikely to come across a bear while hiking, the thought is exciting.

Vancouver Island

Although Vancouver is a bustling city, it contains several picturesque remote locations. The island has glacial mountains, waterfalls, and natural lakes.

Vancouver Island is perfect for hikers and mountain climbers. And the mild weather is perfect for tourism. More so, surfers can head down to Tofino to enjoy the exotic beaches. Bird watchers can pitch their tents all over the island and might even catch a rare glimpse of grizzly bears.

This sparsely-populated town is an instant attraction for nature lovers. The snow-covered landscape provides the perfect cover for polar bears, hence the world’s Polar Bear Capital. You can book a tour — in a safe vehicle — to see the polar bears in their natural habitat.

Churchill is also a great place to see the beluga whales. And you can swim with the whales if you wish to spice up your trip.

This world-renowned ski resort is home to the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. The ski resorts scattered across this British Columbia destination is a paradise for snow lovers . Visitors can also go hiking or rock climbing.

Mount Logan

Mountain climbers and hikers will fancy the challenge of scaling the highest peak in Canada. And if you don’t make it to the summit, you will enjoy the breathtaking overhead view of the Canada landscape.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a picturesque destination in Alberta. This tourist destination is perfect for couples or solo travellers with a massive appreciation for photography.

The park is home to many turquoise lakes, including the Pyramid and Maligne Lakes. Jasper National Park is also a UNESCO heritage because of its affluence of natural wonders.

Mont-Tremblant

This Montreal destination in the Laurentian Mountains is famous for its ski resorts. Mont-Tremblant houses over 400 lakes and hiking trails. During the warm months, visitors can ride on horseback or go mountain biking.

Gros Morne National Park

This park is a favorite destination for hikers seeking to explore the wild in its raw form. The Gros Morne National Park is part of the Long Range Mountains .

Yukon is famous for the Klondike Gold Rush that attracted visitors from all over the globe. Today, the attraction to Yukon is the natural wonder — the Aurora Borealis . Visitors pitch their tents overnight just to capture this beautiful display from nature.

Canada is the perfect destination for tourists seeking lowkey locations. You can enjoy waterfalls, go hiking, or play it close with the bears. The natural wonders all over the country will make for excellent viewing in pictures and videos. Ultimately, you will marvel at the wonders of nature. Start packing right away!

Advertisement

Emerald cruises: 2nd guest sails free, 2 night niagara falls getaway, take a holiday getaway without leaving ottawa & get $100 off a 2-night hotel stay, nova scotia: cape breton island home with ocean and mountain views, round trip from halifax to montreal, more from travelalerts.ca, top places in venice to visit for art connoisseurs, unwind and save: discover affordable vacation packages with ai ....

THANK YOU FOR SUBSCRIBING!

Sign me up to receive handpicked travel deals, special offers, promotions, notices, communications and other information that may be of interest to me from TravelAlerts.ca. We will use your postal code and name to better tailor the offers, promotions, communications, and other information that we send to you. You can unsubscribe at any time. See TravelAlerts.ca’s privacy policy for details. Travelalerts.ca, a division of Metroland Media Group Ltd. 211 Pritchard Rd. Unit 4, Hamilton ON L8J 0G5.www.travelalerts.ca, [email protected].

North America Chevron

Canada Chevron

The 7 Most Underrated Cities in Canada

By Kaitlyn McInnis

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

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

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

Halifax, Nova Scotia

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

Winnipeg, Manitoba

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

Banff, Alberta

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

Quebec City, Quebec

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

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Victoria, British Columbia

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

Ottawa, Ontario

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

Moncton, New Brunswick

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

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

In Venice, a Conservative Painter Stages an Unpopular Rebellion

Poland’s right-wing government tapped the artist Ignacy Czwartos for the Venice Biennale before it was voted out of office. The new government canceled his show, but he is staging it anyway.

By Alex Marshall

Reporting from Venice

Six months ago, Ignacy Czwartos won the opportunity of a lifetime.

A politically conservative painter whose work contains religious, historical and military images, Czwartos was an outsider in the contemporary art scene in Poland. But that didn’t stop the government there, at the time led by the populist Law and Justice Party, from choosing him to represent the country at the Venice Biennale.

“Of course, I was happy,” Czwartos, 57, recalled recently.

But just weeks after he got the news, Czwartos’s opportunity vanished.

After liberal, centrist and moderately conservative political parties formed a new government in Poland , they quickly dropped Czwartos as the country’s Venice representative . Instead, the new culture minister announced that he would send Open Group, a Ukrainian collective, to the Biennale instead.

Czwartos was furious. The decision, made with little explanation, “was an act of political censorship,” Czwartos said, adding that the Polish government had acted like a totalitarian state.

So Czwartos made his own decision: He would to go to Venice anyway, the government be damned.

On Wednesday night, in a quiet housing complex close to the gardens where much of the Biennale takes place, Czwartos opened his show. Titled “ Polonia Uncensored ,” and running through May 17, the exhibition features 15 large paintings including a series of artworks depicting Nazis who committed atrocities in Poland during World War II, and another set showing Polish soldiers who fought the Soviet Union.

Czwartos said those works arose from his interest in Polish history. “Art is free,” he said. “You can take whatever subject you want.”

At a time when inclusion is a preoccupation in much of the art world, with exhibitions often highlighting works by ethnic and sexual minorities, Czwartos and his supporters see this episode as evidence that museums and galleries remain closed to one group, at least: political conservatives.

Piotr Bernatowicz, the curator of Czwartos’s show and the director of a major Warsaw art museum , said in an interview that left-wing views dominated the art world. “We’re the rebellion,” he said.

Yet to most Polish artists and curators, who are predominantly liberal, Czwartos’s case shows Poland shaking off the legacy of the previous government, which meddled in the art world to enforce its traditional views of society.

Marta Czyz, the curator of the replacement Biennale show, said that Czwartos was “a fascist painter,” adding: “I don’t think he should be shown anywhere.” Contemporary art was not about looking to the past, she added, and Czwartos’s paintings would find few fans in Venice.

At the opening of Czwartos’s show on Wednesday, there seemed to be little demand. Aside a handful of reporters, there were only a dozen or so of Czwartos’s friends and supporters.

Visitors paid attention to one painting in particular. “Nord Stream 2” depicts Angela Merkel, Germany’s former chancellor, alongside President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia. They are separated by a metal pipe that evokes the gas pipeline linking their two countries, and appears to form the shape of a swastika. Czwartos said that the painting was “a warning” about those countries’ close ties.

Czwartos’s ouster is not the first example of political intervention in Poland’s art world, which has been in turmoil since 2015. That year, the Law and Justice Party came to power and began a yearslong effort to shift the country’s culture to the right , including by ousting liberal directors from major art museums and replacing them with conservatives who would promote traditional values.

Among the museums affected was the Zacheta National Gallery of Art, in Warsaw, which convened the jury that chose Czwartos to represent Poland at Venice.

One juror, the curator Joanna Warsza, said that the selection process was “a setup” designed to chose a “far-right” artist, and that Czwartos was the only option available. When it became clear he would be selected, Warsza and two other jurors issued a dissenting statement in which she said that Czwartos’s art didn’t “in any way reflect Poland’s contemporary art scene.”

His paintings presented Poland as “a homogenous, unopen country focused only on itself and on speaking from the position of a victim,” the statement added.

Warsza said she was overjoyed that Poland’s new government had replaced Czwartos with Open Group, the Ukrainian collective — although she said it allowed Czwartos to portray himself as a “victim and hero.”

“This is exactly what he wants,” Warsza added.

While the tiny turnout for Czwartos’s opening suggested little appetite for his work, the Open Group’s exhibition at the Polish pavilion was packed. Titled “ Repeat After Me II ,” the show consists of two large videos featuring Ukrainians who fled after Russia’s full-scale invasion, reproducing the sounds they remember from the war. They imitate the sounds of bombs exploding, automatic gunfire and helicopters whirring overhead, then give an instruction to viewers: “Repeat after me.” Microphones stand on both sides of the pavilion, and visitors are also encouraged to imitate the noises.

At the official opening on Thursday, several hundred people assembled outside Poland’s grand pavilion to hear speeches, including from Poland’s culture minister, then lined up to go inside. Czwartos was nowhere to be seen.

Alex Marshall is a Times reporter covering European culture. He is based in London. More about Alex Marshall

Inside the Venice Biennale

The 2024 venice biennale features work by more than 330 participating artists from some 90 countries scattered throughout the city..

 Hits of the Venice Biennale:  These 8 highlights drew the big crowds so far, including a  sonorous symphony made by fruit, an underwater spectacle and a modern-day Tintoretto.

Bangkok Takes Its Place on the Stage:  Bangkok, called the Venice of the East by European missionaries  and sailors who fell under the city’s spell centuries ago, will celebrate its fourth biennale this fall

Dissent, Diplomacy and Drama:  A look at pivotal years of the art festival , including when Mussolini brought Hitler to the show.

Did America Cheat to Win in 1964?:  A new documentary takes a hard look  at the persistent rumors around Robert Rauschenberg’s win in Venice in the midst of the Cold War.

An Unpopular Rebellion:  Poland’s right-wing government tapped the artist Ignacy Czwartos  for the Venice Biennale before it was voted out of office. The new government canceled his show, but he is staging it anyway.

Turning a Prison Into a Gallery:  For its offering at this year’s Venice Biennale, the Holy See chose an unusual venue : the Giudecca women’s prison.