a travel guide to canada

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Canada Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 21, 2023

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

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

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in canada.

1. Tour Toronto

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

2. Explore Jasper and the Columbia Icefield

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

3. Road trip the Maritimes

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

4. Hang out in Montreal

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

5. Have fun in Vancouver

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

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

2. Hit the slopes

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

3. Discover Vancouver Island

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

4. Hike the rainforest

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

5. Explore Calgary

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

6. Visit the galleries of Toronto

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

7. Take a road trip

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

8. Stroll the nation’s capital

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

9. Get off the beaten path in Nova Scotia

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

10. Admire Quebec City

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

11. Visit Kelowna

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

12. Head north to Churchill, Manitoba

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

13. See the iconic Niagara Falls

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

14. Get lost in the Yukon

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

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

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

Canada Travel Costs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Backpacking Canada Suggested Budgets

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

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

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

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

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

Canada Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

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

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

Where to Stay in Canada

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

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

How to Get Around Canada

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

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

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

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

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

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

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

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

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

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

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

• Couchsurfing

When to Go to Canada

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

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

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

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

How to Stay Safe in Canada

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

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

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

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

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

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

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

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

Canada Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

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

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

Canada Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

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

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

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

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

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

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

TRAVEL to CANADA – Tips and Information Guide (2024 Edition)

Everything you need to know about travel to Canada in our comprehensive 2024 Canada travel guide.

Have you ever wanted to see the Northern Lights? Or to explore the beautiful cities of Vancouver, Quebec or Calgary? What about venturing out into the world-renown national parks of British Columbia?

Unspoiled nature and incredibly vibrant urban areas create the perfect mixture of reasons to travel to Canada.

“The Great White North,” is a vast country that offers virtually unlimited opportunities for visitors of all kinds.

Whether searching for wildlife, landscapes, adventure activities or the culture of city life, travelling in Canada will give you a variety of experiences you are sure to remember.

There really is so much to do it can be overwhelming to plan to visit Canada. But getting started is not that difficult.

Read on to learn everything you need to plan for travel to Canada!

TRAVELLING IN CANADA: AT A GLANCE

Here are the basics of travel to Canada.

TOP 5 TRAVEL EXPERIENCES IN CANADA

With so much to see and do in Canada, it really is hard to pick the top experiences. We have written a comprehensive guide on the best things to do in Canada here.

However, we think that to truly appreciate Canada you need to plan to do these 5 activities during your visit.

Check out Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the world’s most famous waterfalls and well worth a visit. Find yourself in awe watching the water tumble over the top of the falls. Or hop on a boat and cruise up to the falls from the river!

Read about all our favourite Niagara Falls attractions .

Explore the Canadian Rockies

From picturesque mountain peaks to stunningly blue glacial lakes, the Canadian Rockies in British Columbia have so much exploration to offer! This part of Canada could be a trip in itself!

Check out our ultimate guide to Hiking in Banff

View The Northern Lights

Witnessing northern lights is one of the most amazing natural phenomena. The city of Whitehorse in the Yukon territory might be a perfect place for it! Your chances are highest between September and April since the nights aren’t dark enough during the summer.

Check out the Northern Lights in Whitehorse , Yukon Territory.

See Polar Bears

Churchill in northern Manitoba is known as the ‘Polar Bear Capital of the World’, making it an obvious choice to visit for travellers wanting to get close to the planet’s largest apex land predator.

See polar bears in Churchill, one of Canada’s best wildlife experiences .

Drink the Sourtoe Cocktail

Taking a shot of alcohol with a frostbitten toe may not be on everyone’s bucket list. But if it’s on yours, you absolutely must try to Sourtoe Cocktail in Dawson City. It’s a strange, yet unique experience when you visit Canada.

Read more about the Sourtoe Cocktail and lots of other great things to do in Dawson City .

Other Things to do in Canada

Scale the CN Tower in Toronto. If you’re unafraid of heights, strap into a safety harness and walk around the top or just check out the views.

Visit Stanley Park in Vancouver. The world’s happiest city has much to offer . But most visitors start at this famous park downtown.

Take a drive on the Icefield Parkway. This incredible stretch of highway connects Banff and Jasper National Parks and is full of amazing landscapes and stunning wildlife!

Hang out with Polar Bears in Manitoba. View these dangerous, but remarkable, animals as they waltz around Churchill like they own the place.

Take a gondola ride in Banff. Situated in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff boasts unrivaled beauty best seen by way of the gondola.

Eat poutine . A strictly Canadian plate, poutine is french fries and cheese curds covered in gravy. Try varieties all across the country!

Take a flight over glaciers in Kluane National Park. The only way to beat the spectacular views of driving or hiking the Canadian Rockies is to check them out from above !

Tour La Citadelle de Québec in Quebec City . One of the most visited cathedrals in Canada, you will feel lost in the grandeur of this sacred place.

Ride the Rocky Mountaineer train . The most relaxing way to enjoy the Canadian Rockies is touring them on this train ride from Vancouver to Banff .

Eat lobster in the Maritimes. Lobster doesn’t get much fresher than that caught and served up in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.

Go dog sledding in the Yukon. Yes, there are humane ways to enjoy this absolutely incredible experience . Dress warm and enjoy the ride!

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN CANADA

There are plenty of amazing places to visit in Canada. Depending on your interests, trip duration and time of year you will find plenty of things to do during any length of stay. 

Toronto is not only the largest city in Canada but also truly one of the most stunning cities in the world. It’s famous for its diversity and travelling here will be a great chance to learn about different cultures! The people are incredibly nice, the sights are beautiful.

Check out our Toronto City Guide.

Montréal is a fascinating mix of Europe and North America. It’s a definition of a vibrant city – full of festivals, museums and must-visit restaurants. There’s an abundance of things to do there. Brush up on your French before your trip!

Check out our Montreal City Guide.

Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the top places to live in the world. With picturesque scenery all around, tons of outdoor activities, numerous opportunities for wildlife encounters and many great day trips you absolutely have to add Vancouver to your Canada itinerary.

Check out our Vancouver City Guide.

Banff / Lake Louise

Lake Louise is one of Banff National Park ’s most famous sights. The extraordinarily turquoise water is a real feast for the eyes. Plus there is spectacular hiking, biking and even kayaking that you can do to further enjoy the beauty of the nature around. You can visit during the summer or spend your winter vacation here!

Check out our Banff City Guide .

For more information on specific things to do in the top places to visit in Canada, reference our following city travel guides: 

BEST CANADA TRAVEL ITINERARY

Canada is huge and there are so many amazing things to do there that planning an itinerary for your travel can be a little overwhelming. 

We’ve divided these itineraries into Eastern Canada and Western Canada options for both 1 or 2 weeks. Having at least 1 month to road trip across the entire country would be ideal.

But short of this, your best option will be to plan to visit each side of the country separately.

Of course, no one-size-fits-all plan will suffice. But if we were to head back to Canada these are the top places and things that we would want to do! 

1-Week Canada Travel Itinerary Highlights

Eastern canada 1-week itinerary.

• Fly into Toronto (2 days) / day trip to Niagara Falls
• Go to Ottawa (1 day)
• Go to Montreal (2 days)
• Go to Quebec City (2 days)
• Fly from Quebec City

Western Canada 1-week Itinerary (Road Trip)

• Fly into Calgary (1 day)
• Tour Canadian Rockies – Banff/Jasper/Yoho National Parks (3-4 days)
• Vancouver (3-4 days)
• Fly from Vancouver

2-Week Canada Travel Itinerary Highlights

This is an idea of how we’d spend 2 weeks in Canada. 

Eastern Canada Itinerary

• Fly into Toronto (3 days)
• Day trip to Niagara Falls
• Go to Ottawa (2 days)
• Go to Quebec City (3 days)
• Return to Toronto

Western Canada Itinerary (Road Trip)

• Fly into Calgary (1-2 days)
• Banff National Park (1-2 days)
• Jasper National Park (1-2 days)
• Yoho National Park / Glacier National Park (1 day)
• Revelstoke National Park (1 day)
• Stop in Revelstoke (1-2 days)
• Drive to Vancouver (4 days)
• Day trip (ferry) to Victoria on Vancouver Island
• Fly out of Vancouver

CANADA TRIP PLANNING

Best time to visit canada.

Since the country is so vast and diverse, there really isn’t a time of year unsuitable for travel to Canada.

Depending on what you want to do, you should pick the month of your trip accordingly.

Summer Travel (June – August)

The warmer summer months, such as July and August, are the most common times to visit Canada.

As in many countries in the northern hemisphere, summer in Canada is an ideal time of travel and adventure for many tourists. Expect to come across more tourists and higher prices during this time.

But don’t worry about the crowds and expense. Canada is beautiful during the summer!

It’s summer temperatures tend to not be as extreme as other summer destinations. Some parts of the country, particularly those further north and at higher elevations, will still see the snow melting well into June and July.

This is a great time to explore Canadian cities. But it is also the ideal time to visit any of the stunning national parks.

Winter Travel (December – February)

Winters in Canada can be very cold. But this is also a great time of year for winter activities, such as dog sledding , snowboarding/skiing and ice climbing.

But, keep in mind that some parts of the country deal with extremely uncomfortable temperatures.

For example, Winnipeg is Canada’s coldest city. Temperatures there can drop to -40°C at times!

Many of the places that are popular during the summer months are not as popular during the winter.

So if you would like to see parts of the country with fewer crowds than winter may be a great option for you.

Shoulder Season

The shoulder season in Canada is similar to other parts of the world. Spring and Fall tend to see less tourist traffic than the summer and winter months.

The months that are not very popular are April and November. They are often neither cold nor hot enough to enjoy certain activities.

However, the prices are much lower during this part of the year. So if you factor this into your planning, maybe this isn’t such a bad time to travel to Canada.

CANADA TRAVEL BUDGET GUIDELINE

Budgets for travelling in Canada can vary greatly. This depends on where you want to go, what you want to see and do, how you want to travel and the level of comfort you expect in your accommodations.

Canada is a highly developed country. As such many day-to-day expenses such as meals and accommodation can range in price greatly.

Here are a few ideas of what to expect in planning your budget to travel to Canada.

Budgeting Tips:

To make your money go further here are a few budgeting tips: 

• Take public transportation or walk whenever you can.
• For longer trips, look for rideshare options on places like Craigs List and travel forums and groups.
• Buy food at local markets and cook your own meals as often as possible.
• Look for free events and festivals to attend in the cities you visit
• Consider couch surfing from time to time. And camping should be on your list of things to do anyway
• Look for last-minute deals on accommodation, travel and activities.

But there are a few things you should know about the different budgets at which you can choose to travel.

Note: Budgets shown as Single Traveller / Couples per day. 

Budget Traveller ($40-75 Single / $100+ Couples)

If you are a budget traveller visiting Canada on your own you will have quite a challenge to keep yourself within budget.

The most affordable accommodation, besides Couchsurfing, are hostels and Airbnb. But not all places you’ll want to travel will have these options.

If you’re on a tight budget then you probably won’t eat at restaurants on a regular basis.

Your best options might be fast-food restaurants and buying your own groceries and cooking when that is an option.

Canada has open-air markets and lots of chain grocery stores where you can buy groceries at affordable prices.

When it comes to public transportation, the prices are different in each area. But they’re not exactly cheap anywhere.

Daily city transportation can cost around USD$10 and single tickets are around USD$3.

Additionally, you will need to budget separately for the various activities that you would like to do.

For example, ski passes in winter can be pricey. And daily entrance fees to national parks are reasonable but will add up.

Mid-Range Traveller ($125 Single / $175 Couple)

If you are travelling to Canada with a mid-range budget then you have some flexibility in your plans that you wouldn’t have on a tighter budget.

The biggest changes will be in accommodation and meals. You’ll be able to stay in moderately priced hotels and eat most of your meals in proper restaurants (even if it’s only fast food).

You might also choose to rent a car from time to time or to upgrade on tour options to do an activity that might otherwise not be in the backpacker budget.

Couples travelling at this budget will save considerable expense by staying in hotels and Airbnb options instead of hostels. Transportation costs could also be reduced for couples choosing to rent a vehicle.

Luxury Traveller ($350+ Single / $450+ Couple)

If you can afford to travel with a little more luxury you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy yourself in Canada.

Large cities, as well as certain vacation destinations, have top-notch hotels and resorts. And you’ll find great stays in boutique lodging all throughout Canada.

You will also be able to afford to eat at the best restaurants and indulge in local delicacies and staples across the country.

Aside from more luxurious meals and accommodations, there are tons of things you can do when travelling in Canada with a more substantial budget.

You will be able to rent a vehicle or hire transportation around town. When travelling across the country you will be able to save time by flying.

Additionally, your choice in activities will expand to more unique experiences. From riding the Rocky Mountaineer train to flights through glacial ice fields , there is no shortage of experiences well worth the higher costs.

GETTING TO AND AROUND CANADA

Entry requirements.

Canada is relatively accessible for travel. Passport holders in 54 countries can visit Canada without obtaining a visa.

Canada will permit these travellers to stay in the country for up to six months.

Click here to see if your country is on that list. Others must obtain a temporary resident visa.

Travellers must also have an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA).

When applying for the eTA , visitors have to provide certain biographical details and passport information. Also, you’ll be asked about your employment information, available funds and your health and immigration history.

Getting to Canada

Since it is one of the most developed Western countries, there are multiple ways to travel to Canada.

The choice is yours depending on your needs and origins.

But you may want to consider comfort, prices, duration of trip and preferred method of travel as you plan how to get to Canada.

Canada has around 20 major international airports. This makes flying to Canada the quickest, most convenient way to enter the country.

The biggest and busiest airport is the Toronto Pearson International Airport. Direct flights to Toronto are available from a lot of cities across the world.

But you will also find international flights in and out of most major cities across the country.

Regardless of whether you put a lot of time into planning your trip or make a last-minute decision to visit Canada, there are almost always reasonable flight options available.

Sometimes it might also be cheaper to fly into the USA and then drive to Canada. So take that option into consideration.

Personal/Rental Vehicle

Many people travel to Canada as part of a North American exploration. Or you may find a better flight deal into a major US city like Boston, New York City, Chicago or Seattle.

As such you may find yourself driving to Canada from the United States.

In many places, it is very easy to pass between the Canadian/US border to visit nearby places in both countries.

Popular places include the Seattle/Vancouver area, Niagara Falls and Montreal/Vermont.

Roads between the US and Canada are generally in excellent condition. They are also marked well so navigation between the two should not be difficult.

Depending on your country of origin, time of stay and purpose for visit, passing through border security by vehicle is often less of a hassle than when arriving by plane.

If crossing into Canada from the United States, do check with your car rental company to make sure that you are able to do so without violating the terms of your agreement.

You will also want to make sure that the vehicle is insured in both countries.

If you’re going to travel to Canada from the United States, you can also travel by bus. Certain cities, like Seattle, Boston, Albany, Detroit or New York, have direct routes and inexpensive fares.

Some well-known bus companies that make trips between the US and Canada include Greyhound, Megabus and Quick Coach.

If you like to travel by train, then travelling to Canada from the US on a train is a great option. This combines relatively low costs, reasonable duration and incredible scenery.

In travelling from the US into Canada train you have two company options. VIA Rail Canada and Amtrak each have three routes that cross various borders between the US and Canada.

Further, all routes start and end in major cities so you can quickly orient yourself to other transportation options upon arrival.

Ferries can be a unique way to see parts of both Canada and the US that are not usually explored by most travellers.

At the moment, there are five ferries that travel to Canada from the United States.

Two depart from Maine and go to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia and Deer Island, New Brunswick (Bay Ferries Limited, East Coast Ferries).

Another two travel from Alaska to Port Hardy and Prince Rupert, both in British Columbia (Alaska Marine Highway System, BC Ferries).

Finally, you can get to Victoria, British Columbia from Seattle (Victoria Clipper).

Getting Around Canada

It is pretty easy to get around when you are travelling in Canada. Expect to pay quite a bit more in Canada to travel between cities than in many less developed parts of the world.

And with higher costs, also expect longer durations in between destinations as distances in Canada can be great.

Travelling by Air

Travelling within Canada by air is the best way to cover ground quickly.

The county has many international and domestic airports. Sometimes, especially if you’re short on time, your best option is flying across the country.

In certain remote areas, there aren’t any other options besides air travel. When it comes to domestic flights, Air Canada has the best network of flights.

A few other companies include Air Creebec, Air St-Pierre, Pacific Coastal Airlines among others.

Travelling by Car

Rental cars are accessible and typically reasonably priced in more populated cities.

Much of Canada is best seen by rental car. There are many trips you can take to explore places considered off the beaten path for most.

Keep in mind that fuel prices can be high, particularly in less-trafficked regions of the country.

But a rental car would be a great way to explore the various cities in eastern Canada. It would also be the best way to get around the various national parks and other natural beauty in western Canada.

Travelling by Bus

In most cities, buses are the main form of public transportation. Toronto has the largest system, with around 140 bus lines.

Travelling by Taxi & Rideshare

Taxis are available everywhere in Canada. However, they are a very expensive way to travel.

You should ask the driver in advance what the price is going to be.

The prices are based on mileage and can’t be negotiated and are usually around USD$2 per kilometre.

In many of the larger cities you can also find rideshares such as Uber and Lyft.

These are often substantially more affordable than taxi. But note they are not always available outside of urban areas.

Travelling by Subway

Subway systems exist only in Toronto and Montréal. These systems cover the cities quite well. In Montréal, the subway network has 4 lines.

The daily tourist card costs USD$9 and a three-day pass costs USD$17. In Toronto, there are 3 subway lines available, and the daily pass costs USD$8.50.

In Vancouver they have the Skytrain network, which now connects the airport with downtown, making it very convenient to get around.

APPS AND TECHNOLOGY

Here are a few apps we think you should definitely acquaint yourself with prior to your travels:

• XE Currency – Transfer, monitor and calculate currency as the need arises. This app may not be totally necessary as you are typically tied into rates the banks charge for services. But it is handy to have around. 
• Express VPN – This will protect your sensitive information wherever you travel – not just in Canada. Be sure to have this to keep your online information secure as you travel. 
• iOverlander – iOverlander is any Canadian road trip enthusiast’s best friend. Find every resource you need on the road – from free or cheap campgrounds to places to eat or refill RV supplies if travelling by campervan or RV.
• Gas Buddy – This app will help you find the most up-to-date fuel locations and prices when driving nearly anywhere in Canada. This is especially important to have when covering large distances or across remote parts of Canada.

BEST THINGS TO EAT IN CANADA

Some Canadian specialities are worldwide famous. While some require some research to discover!

Here are some of the most popular dishes in Canada:

• Poutine : Probably the most well-known Canadian staple consisting of french fries and cheese curds topped with light-brown gravy
• Lobster Rolls : a sandwich made with lobster meat, lemon, and seasoning best served fresh in Nova Scotia or New Brunswick
• Butter Tarts : crumbly crust filled with a butter, sugar and egg cream
• Nanaimo Bars : a sweet, crispy and crunchy dessert bar with layers of chocolate and custard
• Montreal Smoked Meat : Delicious pastrami or brisket smoked and seasoned in a way particular Montreal
• Bannock : delicious native bread either baked or fried and similar to nan. Bannock is served in a variety of ways and included in almost every meal.
• Yellow Split Pea Soup : soup made with dried peas, veggies and salt pork
• Montreal Bagels : smaller and denser than its famous NY bagel, but usually with the typical everything seasoning
• All-dressed Potato Chips : a name given to some of the fanciest and most interesting flavours you can imagine for potato chips
• Maple Syrup : The maple leaf is iconic of Canada and the syrup from the maple tree is just as famous and delicious and well worth a try as often as possible

PLACES TO STAY IN CANADA

Canada is not exactly known for cheap accommodation. A highly developed country, rates can be relatively similar to those in Europe and the United States.

However, the prices vary and with advanced planning, you should be able to find a reasonably priced room.

Types of Accommodations

There are over 100 hostels spread out through dozens of cities across Canada. Staying in hostels is not only accepted, it is expected among budget travellers.

You can expect prices and amenities to be comparable to those in Europe. But remember many of the smaller towns and villages will not have hostels as an option.

Canada offers an abundance of hotels. These are typically the best option for travelers in a mid-range budget and are available in most cities and small towns and villages across the country.

Of course, prices range by location and amenities. And if you are travelling during the busier summer season be sure to book in advance.

Another good option for budget accommodation in Canada is Airbnb. In recent years Airbnb has been growing and there are more and more amazing places popping up in Canada to stay for very affordable prices every day.

As is typical in many destinations where Airbnb accommodations are available, you’ll likely find great value and a little more personal space with an Airbnb stay. 

CANADA TRAVEL TIPS

Travel to Canada is more or less the same as travel to any country. But there are some subtle tips and tricks that will help make your visit safe, pleasant and more affordable.

GENERAL CANADA TRAVEL TIPS 

While there are many basic travel tips we suggest you use when travelling to Canada, there are also plenty of Canada-specific tips that will make your visit the best it can be. 

Here are a few we recommend you consider as you plan your trip to visit Canada: 

• Pack (and dress) according to the weather. Depending on where and when you travel to Canada the weather can catch you off guard. From extreme heat to mind-boggling cold and everything in between, be sure to pack and wear what will keep you comfortable and safe.
• Have travel insurance. Canada has a fantastic health care system. But having travel insurance is always the best way to protect yourself financially from any mishaps on the road. Not sure you need it? Read this post .
• Be aware (and warned) of wildlife. Bear and moose look cute in pictures and videos. But they can be deadly in person. Canada abounds in wildlife so be mindful when you are out exploring.
• Know the emergency number. 911 is the same call for help in Canada as it is in the US. In some areas, 311 is also helpful for non-emergency situations.
• Tax and tipping are not included in meal prices. Know that tax will be added at the end of the meal and, while not required, tipping is customary at the 15-20% level.
• Pick up a little French. Depending on where you travel, it might be necessary. But you’ll find French is almost everywhere on signs and sometimes it will help to make local friends who can assist you in making the most of your trip to Canada.

CANADA PACKING LIST

We always travel with a core packing list wherever we go. And when it comes to Canada, many factors will affect what else you need to bring along with you. 

Check out our travel essentials and be sure to add any of the other additional items listed below. 

Important Note! Before you book any international trip, we honestly recommend getting travel insurance. You never know when things will go wrong, and medical bills can add up quickly if you get sick or injure yourself overseas.

Our personal recommendation based on our own experience is World Nomads.

STAYING SAFE IN CANADA

Canada is a very safe country to visit. It has a very low crime rate and Canadian people are known for their hospitality and seem to always be willing to help someone in need.

Violent crime is basically non-existent in popular tourist spots.

Just like anywhere else in the world, there are some areas in big cities should be avoided. Ask the locals about those neighbourhoods so you can enjoy your trip in peace.

Also, take care of your personal belongings, since tourists are often victims of petty thefts.

Canada is also one of the safest countries for female travellers.

You shouldn’t have any problems if you’re travelling solo. Just keep in mind the same general safety tips you would use anywhere else in the world.

If you’re visiting the Canadian wilderness, watch out for the wild animals.

Every year tourists are attacked by bears, moose and bison. But this is usually due to not respecting the space of the animals and approaching too close to them.

Please mind the wildlife when you see it!

Your best option is to explore and area with someone familiar with it. But if that’s not possible, just be careful and study your maps, have bear spray, whistles and bells and know any regional laws or warnings when it comes to wildlife.

Check out our best travel tips to help you navigate around safely.

STAYING CONNECTED IN CANADA

Canada is a developed nation and staying connected while travelling in Canada is not very difficult. Of course, there are more remote places you can travel where cellular service will be limited.

And if you drive across the country you’ll experience long stretches of highway where you may have hit-or-miss cellular service.

In general, you can expect to connect to WiFi in a few ways for little to no cost. But we feel like your money will go a lot further if you consider a few other options. 

Purchase a SIM Card

Purchasing a SIM card is one of the best ways to access local wireless networks in most countries.

In Canada, you can purchase a SIM card in any of the country’s 3 major carrier stores and at convenience stores and kiosks in major cities. Apply funds for prepaid service and purchase data as you need.

Then throw up a hot spot from your mobile device if you’d like to get online with your computer or tablet.

Rent a Portable WiFi Device

Portable WiFi devices are also readily available across Canada. Roam Mobile, WiFi Cube and MyWebspot Mi-Fi are just a few of the handful of options to look into if you don’t have a qualifying portable WiFi device of your own.

Access Free WiFI

Of course, the easiest and cheapest option to stay connected in Canada is to access free WiFi at a variety of places across the country.

Most hotels, hostels and Airbnb accommodations offer free WiFi.

And if you are out and about you can expect fast food and coffee restaurants such as Tim Hortons, McDonald’s and Starbucks to provide free WiFi as well.

BE A RESPONSIBLE TRAVELER IN CANADA

As is the case whenever you choose to visit and interact with people and places in a foreign land, Canada offers you the opportunity to be responsible in your journey.

Here are a few things to consider as you plan to travel to Canada:

• Leave the natural environment better than you found it. Pretty standard stuff here: pack out your trash, stick to the trails, pick up after yourself.
• Leave wild animals alone. Canada is full of wildlife encounters sure to change your life. But don’t touch, feed or otherwise harass wildlife.
• Be your own transportation as often as possible. Adding a bit of walking or biking to your travel plans reduces the impact of taking vehicles that contribute negatively to the environment.
• Support locals as often as possible. Sure the bigger cities will be full of big brands and mega shopping centres. But as you wander into more remote parts of the Great White North be sure to support smaller, independent businesses as often as possible – including merchants and tour operators.

BOOKS TO READ ABOUT CANADA

Maybe you already know everything about Canada. Chances are you don’t!

But even if you are well-read, here are a few suggestions that might be worth your time while you’re on the plane to Canada. 

Canada (Mike Meyers) – Yes, Mike Meyers the comedian and actor has written a book that shows his take on his homeland from his hilarious, if not entirely quirky, perspective.

Alone Against the North (Adam Shoalt) – In a wild adventure that crowned him the “Canada’s Indiana Jones,” Shoalt embarks to explore the Again River in a way that shows that there are still parts of the world unexplored.

Why I Hate Canadians (Will Ferguson) – A humorous, satirical account of Canadian culture and history that sets out to show that opinions on Canada are best expressed through personal experience.

An Inconvenient Indian (Thomas King) – A serious, albeit darkly humorous, look at the Native American – White relationship that has taken place in Canada and throughout North America in search for ways for the collective culture to move forward in meaningful ways.

Read Our Canada Posts

Is dog sledding cruel the truth about dog mushing tours, the perfect banff itinerary you can’t miss (2024 guide), 25 awesome things to do in banff, canada, the ultimate guide to yoho national park in canada, the golden circle route – an epic yukon road trip itinerary, 17 awesome things to do in dawson city, yukon, the perfect 3 days in vancouver itinerary (2024 guide), 7 awesome day trips from montreal (2024 guide), the perfect 3 days in montreal itinerary, the 10 best day trips from toronto, 21 awesome things to do in toronto, canada [2024 guide], 11 fun things to do in hamilton, ontario.

Visiting Canada and Canadian Tourism

Over 18 million foreigners visit Canada every year making tourism an over $80 billion-a-year Canadian industry — bigger than lumber, fishing, and farming combined. So why not join in?

The Government of Canada spends a lot of effort promoting Canadian tourism through a variety of websites and social media accounts, including Instagram — as seen here. The current slogan is "Canada: Keep Exploring" with "explorecanada" their most widely used user name and hashtag.

Why come to Canada?

Canada is a large, diverse country with a lot going for it, but most tourists are drawn to a few of the same things:

Nature — Canada is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, full of picturesque forests, mountains, and lakes that make it a fantastic place for camping, hiking, or just wandering around and admiring.

Winter Sports — Canada’s snowy climate and mountainous geography has produced no shortage of must-visit parks and resorts for anyone interested in skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or any other activity best enjoyed in the cold.

Cities — Canada is home to several large, modern cities that anyone with a taste for urban life will be able to appreciate.

Cost  — The Canadian dollar is generally quite weak in comparison to other currencies, which make it a very affordable option for people without too much money in their travel budgets.

• Bank of Canada Exchange Rates

The rest of this chapter deals with general information about traveling to Canada. For more information on things to see and do in Canada’s four most popular tourist destinations, please see the specific chapters on British Columbia tourism , Alberta tourism , Ontario tourism , and Quebec tourism .

What language do they speak in Canada?

Foreigners are sometimes confused by Canada’s language situation. Officially, Canada has two official languages , French and English. However, this is mostly just a matter of government policy. The vast majority of Canadians only speak English, and lack even basic skills in French. French-speaking tourists should not expect to speak French in cities like Vancouver, Toronto, or Calgary.

The capital city of Ottawa is more functionally bilingual than most Canadian cities, and all museums and government-related attractions will feature signs and brochures in both French and English. Staff at popular attractions will likely be fluently bilingual as well, as will many employees of popular stores and restaurants. It helps to ask, however.

The famous city of Montreal , in the province of Quebec , is the most bilingual city in Canada and most residents, particularly those who live and work in the downtown core, can speak fluent French and English. It is not considered controversial in Montreal to speak either French or English to a stranger and assume the other person will understand. In other parts of Quebec, however, rates of English fluency are much lower and it may be considered offensive to speak English to a stranger without first asking for permission.

Downsides of Canada

To avoid unhappy surprises, would-be tourists to Canada should be aware of the following potential disappointments before they go:

Bad weather — Unless you are specifically traveling to enjoy winter activities (see above), there are generally only a few months of the year (usually around June to September) in which Canada’s weather will be mild enough to enjoy. Canadian winters, and even parts of spring and fall, are often cold, dark, snowy, and wet, which can make tourist activities difficult or unpleasant.

Long travel distances — Canada is an enormous country and its main cities are all spread quite far apart from each other. Tourists, particularly European tourists unfamiliar with the vastness of North America, are sometimes disappointed to learn that they will probably only be able to see a rather small part of Canada on their trip. Visiting multiple major Canadian cities on a single vacation — for example, Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal — would be extremely time-consuming and likely cost thousands of dollars in domestic travel alone.

“America Jr.” — Some tourists are disappointed to discover that Canada is extremely similar to the United States . Travelers familiar with America should not expect to encounter a strikingly different culture in Canada. Stores, brands, food, entertainment and so on will be overwhelmingly American. Though the international press likes to emphasize Canada as being a more “liberal” country than the US, Canadians will probably not seem very different from Americans in day-to-day encounters.

Security checkpoint at Toronto's Pearson International Airport. Serjio74/Shutterstock

Sick travelers.

Travelers from certain countries will need to be cleared by a medical exam as part of their application process before they can visit Canada. During times when there's a global panic over the spread of a particular infectious disease, such as the SARS scare of 2003 or the Ebola scare of 2014, visitors who display worrying symptoms may be detained by border authorities and sent to a hospital for quarantining.

How to Visit Canada

Customs and visas.

Canada does not treat all international visitors the same; citizens of certain countries will have an easier time entering Canada than others. All foreign visitors to Canada, however, must bring a valid passport from their home country.

Residents of the United States have the easiest entry to Canada, and don’t require anything other than a passport to get in. Residents of Great Britain, western Europe, and a few other countries have to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization ( ETA ) before they can enter. This is a very easy process that only takes a couple of minutes and should be done online  before you leave. Once completed, an ETA lasts for five years or until you get a new passport.

• Find out if you need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visitor visa

Residents of countries not covered by the ETA program can only visit Canada after obtaining a short-term visitor’s visa . Applications can be done online, through the mail, or at an overseas Canadian consulate. They take a couple weeks to process and usually cost around $200. For more information, see the Government of Canada’s visitor eligibility questionnaire .

It is illegal for anyone, from any country, to enter Canada to work or live without first obtaining a long-term visa , which are much more complicated to apply for, and take many months to be approved.

Canada's land border crossing stations operate as drive-throughs. Visitors who arrive by air cross the border at the Canadian airport.

Crossing the Canadian Border

Anyone entering Canada from a foreign country by land, sea, or air — including Canadians themselves — are required to have an interview with a Canadian border guard at their point of entry so it can be determined they are a safe and legal visitor. Exactly how long and invasive this interview will be depends very much on where you are coming from, why you want to visit, whether you have completed any authorizations you may need, and how clearly you communicate these facts. It pays to be honest, cooperative, and informed.

• Canada Border Services Agency
• Wait Times Now, estimated wait times for major Canadian border crossings

It should be remembered that while foreigners enjoy various legal rights after they enter Canada (see below), no foreigner has the right to get into Canada just because they want to. Canadian border guards have the power to deny anyone entry to Canada for any reason. Possessing a criminal record, a history of subversive political activity, dangerous diseases, suspicions of drug trafficking, or just broadly suspicious behavior are all common grounds for refusal of entry to Canada.

Ever since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 Canadian security forces have been extra vigilant about terrorist threats, particularly from the Islamic world. Would-be visitors from the Middle East or parts of Africa, or those with a history of visiting such places, may find themselves subject to increased scrutiny.

• Visiting Canada Help Centre and FAQ, Government of Canada

Visitors to Canada are expected to hand a completed Declaration Card to a border guard in order to cross the border. These cards, which ask basic questions about the visitor and their trip, are usually handed out on airplanes or trains. Visitors who cross a land border usually have to just tell the information to the guard.

Bringing Goods to Canada

It is illegal for foreigners to bring products into Canada to sell without first going through the complex procedures for engaging in international commerce . If you cross the border with more stuff than a reasonable person would assume you need for a trip, the authorities may conclude you are probably intending to illegally sell goods. The only exception is a maximum  $60 worth of “ gifts .”

Tobacco and liquor products are counted separately, and foreigners can bring a fair bit of both into Canada. The current tobacco limit is quite generous; you can bring up to 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, and 200 grams of tobacco, if you so choose. The liquor limit is stricter: you can only bring 1.5 litres of wine, 1.13 litres of another liquor, or a 24-pack of beer. Bringing food products into Canada is generally a hassle, as there are very specific rules and limitations for just about every type.

Dangerous goods, like guns , other weapons , and fireworks can be imported, but have their own particular rules. A few very specific things are likewise banned in Canada for safety reasons and are thus illegal to bring into the country, such as certain kinds of kites and baby products. A complete list can be found on the Canadian Government’s official prohibited consumer products list . It’s also illegal to import what the government describes as  “obscenity and hate propaganda ” which includes any movies, books, comics, or magazines that contain, in the opinion of the border guard, overly hateful, perverted, gory, terroristic, or violent content.

• Alcohol and Tobacco Limits, Government of Canada
• Restricted and Prohibited Goods, Government of Canada

Traveling Inside Canada

Laws for foreigners.

This should hopefully go without saying, but foreigners have to obey Canadian laws while in Canada. Those who do otherwise can be charged, arrested, sentenced, and imprisoned just like Canadians. At the same time, the legal protections granted to Canadians by the Canadian Constitution also apply to foreigners visiting the country. This includes the right to avoid self-incrimination, the right to consult a lawyer, and the right to dispute before a judge any charges or fines imposed by a police officer.

Canada has extradition treaties with more than half the world’s countries , meaning foreigners who commit a crime in Canada but leave the country before they are caught or punished can be caught by local police and forced to return to Canada to face justice (and vice-versa). Only in very rare situations will a foreigner accused of a crime in Canada be tried and punished for it by their own country’s justice system.

Getting Around in Canada

Flights within Canada are notoriously expensive, with the average domestic flight costing at least $300, plus airport fees and taxes which usually add an additional $40 or so. The country has three national airlines, Air Canada  (airline codes: 014, AC or ACA, part of the Star Alliance airline coalition) and  WestJet  (838, WS, WJA, part of its own 16-airline alliance ) which are largely domestic, and  Air Transat   (649, TS, TSC) which is mostly international. Canada does not have a major discount or budget airline, though in recent years the major airlines have been experimenting with budget spin-offs, such as Air Canada Rouge and Westjet’s Swoop . Flights to northern Canada , and especially within northern Canada, are extremely expensive, often a thousand dollars or more, and to get to certain remote regions travelers must use a special northern airline or a chartered flight.

Every major Canadian city has its own international airport , and many smaller cities too. There are also several considerably smaller regional or domestic airports that exclusively service flights between Canadian cities. Most of Canada’s big city airports are located around 20 kilometers from their city’s downtown core, or about a 30 minute drive. Vancouver and Toronto have trains that go directly from the airport to downtown.

• Security Screening at Canadian Airports, Canadian Air Transport Security Authority

The railroad played an important role in Canadian  history , but trains have now become among the slowest, most expensive ways to travel the country. While trains can be a somewhat convenient way for tourists to travel between large Canadian cities located relatively close to each other, air travel or driving remains much more popular, and may even be cheaper.

VIA Rail is Canada’s primary passenger train service, offering direct service from Vancouver to Toronto (at over 4,000 km, one of the longest train trips in the entire world!), Toronto to Montreal, and Montreal to Atlantic Canada, with stops in all significant cities along the way. Traveling between the axis of Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal is a popular route. A cross-country Canadian train ride, from one end of the country to the other, will take about four days and cost around $500-$800.

VIA Rail’s Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal stations also offer connecting trips to the United States, via Amtrak . Several provinces also have limited train service to some of their more remote areas. Cruise-like luxury train services are provided by Royal Canadian Pacific  for those willing to pay.

A Via Rail passenger train takes a break in Blue River, British Columbia. joseph s l tan matt/Shutterstock

Driving in canada.

Anyone driving a car or motorcycle in Canada must possess a valid driver’s license . A foreign driver’s license will generally be recognized as valid by the police if it can be read by them, which is to say, if it has English text on it. Don't forget to check if your car insurance applies in Canada!

Car and Bus Travel

Canada is united by a massive cross-country highway known as the Trans-Canada Highway  that extends 7,821 km from the farthest western portion of British Columbia to the farthest eastern part of Newfoundland. It is primarily a west-east corridor, however. Though the Trans-Canada highway does have some northern forks, these do not go very far and none reach Canada’s  northern territories . Every province has its own highway system as well, and these often merge into portions of the Trans-Canada highway. Through a combination of national and provincial highways, virtually every part of Canada is reachable by road travel, though in many cases drive times will be incredibly long.

• Trans-CanadaHighway map, Transport Canada

Many tourists enjoy traveling between Canadian cities by charter buses , which are large, comfortable buses featuring modern amenities such as bathrooms and WiFi. In eastern Canada, Greyhound is the dominant charter bus line. Other provinces are serviced by various regional bus companies.

Public Transportation

Most large Canadian cities have relatively sophisticated public transportation systems, with some combination of bus, light-rail train, monorail, subway, street car, and ferry services that can be used to navigate most of the downtown core and surrounding areas. The exact combination of services will vary from city to city (as will the cost of tickets and passes). In most cases, public transportation does not travel to rural areas, though some rural communities may have their own public transportation system.

Shopping in Canada

Canadians use the Canadian dollar (symbol: $ ) to pay for goods and services, which can be obtained at any ATM machine, which can be found at banks, shopping centres, corner stores, and many other public places. Most Canadian ATMs will accept foreign bank cards, though withdrawal fees can be high. Some smaller, independently-run shops will have a strict “cash only” policy, but these days, most Canadian business will actually prefer to do transactions through credit or debit cards . Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly-used credit card brands in Canada, and many shops will not accept other kinds — though some will, making it a good idea to ask ahead of time.

US dollars are often accepted at Canadian stores, particularly in tourist-heavy areas. Some places may have a policy of accepting US dollars “at face value,” however, meaning American money will not be accepted at its exchange rate worth, but rather treated as if it was worth as much as Canadian money, which is a bad deal.

Foreigners will be charged sales tax on every purchase they make in Canada, through special “value-added tax” known as GST and either PST or HST . Canada does not have a rebate program allowing foreigners to get a refund for the GST, PST, or HST they spend in Canada.

Challenges, dangers and annoyances when visiting Canada

Medical costs.

Though Canada offers generous public healthcare insurance, you have to be some form of long-term, legal Canadian resident before the government will pay for your hospital visits or operations. Non-residents will be billed full cost for any medical service performed while in Canada, which is why it always pays to get travelers’ medical insurance .

Canada has some of the world’s cleanest tap water and strict laws to ensure the cleanliness and safety of any meat, dairy, or poultry products sold at restaurants or grocery stores.

No foreigner will be denied emergency medical service in Canada, though if they have no insurance they will later face a hefty bill. In addition to hospital admittance and treatment, the uninsured should be prepared to pay full cost for things like ambulance rides and hospital beds. Seen here, a sign in a Vancouver hospital emergency room.

Staying Safe in Canada

Canada is generally a safe country, but it has some dangerous places. Every large Canadian city will have a couple of “bad neighborhoods” where criminals tend to congregate and locals generally avoid — particularly after dark — for fear of being harassed, robbed, or assaulted. Unfortunately, these neighborhoods can often be located close to tourist areas, and may seek to take advantage of the obviously confused or foreign. At the same time, most serious, violent crime in Canada tends to occur between people who know each other. Visitors who act confident and use caution and common sense should have little to fear.

Leaving belongings unattended in any public place is generally considered a high-risk activity, and though some businesses may store forgotten items in a “ lost and found ” collection of lost property, the police — and indeed, most Canadians — will generally be unsympathetic to victims of theft caused by inattentive behavior. People generally lock up their homes, cars, and bicycles before leaving them unsupervised. In rare cases, tourists and locals may be targeted by scam artists looking to cheat them out of money. In big cities, most scams are quite brazen, and usually take the form of a stranger asking for money on some sympathetic pretext, such as a phony personal emergency or phony charity. In some cases, a thief may attempt to quietly sell stolen goods to a stranger. Beggars can be common in some large Canadian cities as well. Many Canadians regard them with indifference, believing them to be scam artists.

The police can be called anytime in Canada by dialing 9-1-1 on the telephone. Canadian police are obligated to treat crimes committed against foreigners exactly the same as crimes against Canadians.

• Scams in Canada, TravelScams

More About Canadian Tourism

• Destination Canada, the Government of Canada's Official Tourism Department
• Explore Canada Instagram Account
• Lonely Planet Canada

Exchange Rate for one Canadian dollar (as of April 2019)

• $0.75 U.S. Dollar
• £0.57 U.K. Pound
• $1 Australian Dollar
• ¥5.02 Chinese Yuan
• ¥83.5 Japanese Yen

Canadian Travel Visas are special holographic stickers that are attached to a blank page of the passport.

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The home of ice hockey, the Niagara Falls, Mounties and maple syrup – not to mention Ryan Gosling, Céline Dion, Drake and of course, Justin Bieber – almost everyone on the planet knows something about Canada. Yet first-time visitors should expect some surprises, beginning with the immense size of the country, hard to appreciate until you get here.

Where to go in Canada

Aboriginal peoples, outdoor activities, the national parks, bears, cougars and snakes, the best parks to ….

Canada’s cities – enchanting Québec, trendy Vancouver, cosmopolitan Toronto and stylish Montréal among them – are rich with historical and cultural treasures, but above all Canada is a land of stunningly beautiful landscapes, from the spectacular fjord-slashed coastlines of Newfoundland and the Maritimes, to the Rockies’ glittering lakes and majestic peaks, and the rippling prairie expanse with all the sky for a ceiling in between.

The second largest country in the world (after Russia), Canada covers an area the United Kingdom could fit into 41 times over. Much of this expanse is sparsely inhabited and the majority of the 35 million Canadians live in its southern half, relatively close to the US border. Like its neighbour to the south, Canada is a spectrum of cultures, a hotchpotch of immigrant groups who supplanted the continent’s many Aboriginal peoples.

For the visitor, the mix that results from this mostly exemplary tolerance is an exhilarating experience, offering such widely differing cultural, artistic and culinary experiences as Vancouver’s huge Chinatown, the Inuit heartlands of the far north, the austere religious enclaves of Manitoba or the Celtic-tinged warmth of the Maritimes.

Yet – in stark contrast to their southern neighbours – some Canadians are often troubled by the lack of a clear self-image, tending to emphasize the ways in which their country is different from the US as a means of self-description (one of their strange foods, jellied moose nose , probably best sums this up). But the question “What is a Canadian?” continues to linger, with the on-again, off-again and always acrimonious debate over Québec’s secession, but ultimately there can be no simple characterization of a people whose country is not so much a single nation as it is a committee on a continental scale. Pierre Berton, one of Canada’s finest writers, wisely ducked the issue: “A Canadian”, he quipped, is “someone who knows how to make love in a canoe”.

Despite this balancing act, one thing is clear: Canadians have an overwhelming sense of pride in their history, their culture and the mesmerizing beauty of their land. Indeed, Canada embraces all this – as well as its own clichés – with an energy that’s irresistible.

Ontario contains not only the country’s manufacturing heart and its largest city, Toronto, but also Niagara Falls, the premier tourist sight. North of Toronto there’s Georgian Bay, a beautiful waterscape of pine-studded islets set against crystal-blue waters. The bay is also accessible from the Canadian capital, Ottawa – not as dynamic as Toronto, but still well worth a stay for its galleries, museums and handful of superb restaurants.

Québec, set apart by the depth of its French culture, is anchored by its biggest city, Montréal, which is for many people the most vibrant place in the country, a fascinating mix of old-world style and commercial dynamism. The pace of life is more relaxed in the historic provincial capital Québec City, and more easygoing still in the villages dotted along the St Lawrence lowlands, where glittering spires attest to the enduring influence of the Catholic Church.

Across the mouth of the St Lawrence River, the pastoral Gaspé Peninsula – the easternmost part of Québec – borders New Brunswick, a densely forested introduction to the three Maritime Provinces, whose people have long been dependent on timber and the sea for their livelihood. Here, the tapering Bay of Fundy boasts mind-blowing tides – rising and falling by 9m or more – and superb maritime landscapes, while the region’s tiny fishing villages are at their most beguiling near Halifax, the busy capital of Nova Scotia. Even prettier are the land and seascapes of Cape Breton Island, whose rugged topography anticipates that of the island of Newfoundland to the north. Newfoundland’s isolation has spawned a distinctive culture that’s at its most lively in St John’s, where the local folk music scene is Canada’s best. The island also boasts some of the Atlantic seaboard’s finest landscapes, particularly the flat-topped peaks and glacier-gouged lakes of Gros Morne National Park.

Back on the mainland, the Prairie Provinces of Manitoba and Saskatchewan have a reputation for dullness that’s unfair: even in the flat southern parts there’s the diversion of Winnipeg, whose traces of its early days make it a good place to break a trans-Canadian journey. Numerous lakes and gigantic forests offer magnificent canoeing and hiking, and in the far north, beside Hudson Bay, Churchill – remote, but accessible by train – is famous for its polar bears, beluga whales and easy viewing of the Northern Lights. Moving west, the wheatfields of Alberta ripple into ranching country on the approach to the province’s two main cities, Edmonton and Calgary, grown fat on the region’s oil and gas fields. Calgary is especially known for its cowboys, rodeos and sumptuous steaks. Both cities provide useful springboards for trips into the Canadian Rockies – most popularly to the resorts of Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper – and the most spectacular scenery in the country, from mighty glaciers to the serene beauty of Moraine Lake and the rugged wilderness of Icefields Parkway.

Further west, British Columbia is a land of snow-capped summits, rivers and forests, pioneer villages, gold-rush ghost towns, and some of the greatest hiking, skiing, fishing and canoeing in the world. Its urban focus, Vancouver, is the country’s third largest city, known for its spectacular natural setting, fabulous food and a laidback West Coast hedonism. Off the coast lies Vancouver Island, a microcosm of the province’s immense natural riches and home to Victoria, a devotedly anglophile little city. It’s also well worth journeying over to the island’s west coast to take in the rugged beauty of Pacific Rim National Park’s Long Beach, Clayoquot Sound and surf town of Tofino.

North of British Columbia, wedged alongside Alaska, is the Yukon Territory, half grandiose mountains, half subarctic tundra, and full of evocative echoes of the Klondike gold rush. Whitehorse, its capital, and Dawson City, a gold-rush relic, are the major towns here, each accessed by dramatic frontier highways. The Northwest Territories and Nunavut, covering the Canadian Arctic, are an immensity of forest, lakes, tundra and ice, the realm of Dene and Inuit Aboriginal peoples. Roads are virtually nonexistent in the deep north, and only the frontier city of Yellowknife, plus a handful of ramshackle villages, offer the air links and resources necessary to explore this wilderness.

Discover more places in Canada

• Ontario Travel Guide
• The Prairie Provinces Travel Guide
• Québec City and Northern Québec Travel Guide
• The Maritime Provinces Travel Guide
• The BC Interior Travel Guide
• Vancouver and Vancouver Island Travel Guide
• Toronto Travel Guide

The British and French were latecomers to Canada, a country that for thousands of years was home to a vast aboriginal population (or “First Nations”). Today, almost a million Canadians claim descent from these first peoples, from the so-called “Indians” of the central and western heartlands, to the Inuit, inhabitants of the great sweep of Canada’s north. A third group, the Métis – descendants of mixed unions of white and aboriginal people – also have a distinct identity, part of a rich cultural, social and artistic mosaic that provides a beguiling complement to the mainstream. You’ll find evidence of Canada’s former aboriginal life in many museums and galleries, and plenty of areas nurturing living aboriginal cultures, though there’s no escaping the fact that many aboriginal people are among the most marginalized of Canadians.

• Canada has the 11th largest economy in the world; the country’s richest person is David Thomson (chairman

of Thomson Reuters), worth around $30 billion.

• It’s true: the Canadian province of Québec is by far the largest producer of maple syrup in the world (accounting for three-quarters of global output).

• Established in 1964, Tim Hortons is a Canadian icon, with over 3000 doughnut and “double-double” (coffee with two sugars and two creams) stores nationwide.

• Unbeknown to most Americans, Hollywood is crammed with Canadians: Michael Cera, Ryan Gosling, Evangeline Lily, Rachel McAdams, Mike Myers, Ellen Page, Keanu Reeves, Ryan Reynolds, Seth Rogen, Kiefer Sutherland and William Shatner (Captain Kirk!) among them.

• Since 1952, Saturday nights have been home to “Hockey Night in Canada” on CBC, when thousands are glued to the TV to pay homage to the national sport.

Canada’s mountains, lakes, rivers and forests offer the opportunity to indulge in a vast range of outdoor pursuits. We’ve concentrated on fishing, hiking, skiing and canoeing – four of Canada’s most popular activities – and on the national parks, which have been established to preserve and make accessible the best of the Canadian landscape.

Other popular activities such as whale-watching, riding and rafting are covered in some detail in the main text. Once in Canada you can rely on finding outfitters, equipment rental, charters, tours and guides to help you in most areas; tourist offices invariably carry full details or contact numbers.

Canada’s 37 national parks and eight national park reserves are administered by Parks Canada ( w pc.gc.ca ), and local staff based at park information centres . Visit these to pick up special permits if you intend to fish or camp in the backcountry, and for information and -audiovisual displays on flora, fauna and outdoor activities. Many offer talks and nature walks presented by park naturalists, as well as reports on snow, weather and recent bear sightings. The national parks system also administers 168 National Historic Sites – important historical sites dotted around the country.

Supplementing the national parks is a network of provincial parks in every province in the country. Entry to these parks is sometimes free, though often you’ll have to pay a small fee of around $5. You’ll also have to pay for fishing and hunting permits as well as campgrounds on top of this; specifics vary from province to province.

National park permits

All those entering Canada’s national sites and parks require a park permit , regardless of their mode of transport, though permits are usually sold to cover all those entering in a particular vehicle from a roadside booth on the park boundary. This costs around $7.80 to $9.80 per person per day with concessions for the young and old. If you intend to visit a number of national parks and sites, it might be worth investing in an annual Discovery Pass, which provides one adult unlimited admission to all parks and national historic sites for $67.70; family or group passes, covering a whole car-load of people, cost around double.

Additional permits are also required to fish (see Bears, cougars and snakes) and backcountry camp in national parks: both are generally available from park information centres.

Canada boasts some of North America’s finest hiking , and whatever your ability or ambition you’ll find a walk to suit almost anywhere in the country. All the national and many provincial parks have well-marked and well-maintained trails, and a visit to any park centre or local tourist office will furnish you with adequate maps of the usually very easily followed local paths. If you’re venturing into the backcountry try to obtain the appropriate 1:50,000 sheet from the Canadian Topographical Series. For key hiking areas we’ve given a brief summary of the best trails in the appropriate parts of the Guide, though with over 1500km of paths in Banff National Park alone, these recommendations only scratch the surface. Park staff can advise on other good walks, and detailed trail guides are widely available for most popular regions.

Before setting off on anything more than a short stroll be properly informed of local conditions and be properly equipped . Hiking at lower elevations should present few problems, though swarms of blackflies in the spring and mosquitoes near water can drive you crazy; anything containing DEET should be a fairly reliable repellent. For more on specific health problems.

Main hiking areas

The most extensive and rewarding hiking-trail networks are in the Rockies national parks of Alberta and BC. Thousands of kilometres of well-kept and well-tramped paths crisscross the four main parks – Banff, Jasper, Yoho and Kootenay – as well as the smaller enclaves of Glacier, Revelstoke and Waterton Lakes. Scope for hiking of all descriptions is almost limitless. More modest areas dotted all over BC boast walking possibilities out of all proportion to their size: we pay less attention to these, but by most relative standards hiking here is still among the best in North America.

In Manitoba , the Riding Mountain National Park offers about thirty hiking trails, but though there’s plenty of upland walking to be had in the prairie provinces, you have to move east to Québec ’s Mauricie, Forillon and Gatineau parks for a taste of mountains comparable to the western provinces. In Ontario , Lake Superior Provincial Park and Algonquin Park are the most challenging terrains. New Brunswick ’s Fundy National Park offers coastal walks, while Newfoundland ’s hiking centres on its two national parks: Terra Nova on the East Coast, and the high plateau and fjords of the West Coast’s Gros Morne. For the truly bold, however, nothing can match the Arctic extremes of Baffin Island, whose principal trail lies over an icecap that never melts.

Long-distance trails

In areas with highly developed trail networks, seasoned backpackers can blaze their own long-distance walking routes by stringing together several longer trails. Recognized long-haul paths are relatively rare, though more are being designated yearly. One of the best is the Chilkoot Trail from Dyea in Alaska to Bennett in BC, a 53km hike that closely follows the path of prospectors en route to the Yukon during the 1898 gold rush. The most popular is probably Vancouver Island’s demanding West Coast Trail , which runs for 75km along the edge of the Pacific Rim National Park.

More far-reaching walks include the Rideau Trail , which follows paths and minor roads for 386km from Kingston to Ottawa ( w rideautrail.org ); the 690km Bruce Trail from Queenston, on the Niagara River, to Tobermory on the Bruce Peninsula ( w brucetrail.org ); and the Voyageur Trail along the north shores of lakes Superior and Huron, which is the longest and most rugged route in the province ( w voyageurtrail.ca ). In the Maritimes, the Confederation Trail cuts a bucolic path across PEI, while the Fundy Trail in New Brunswick and, in particular, the East Coast Trail in Newfoundland offer a more rugged experience.

Wherever there’s good hiking in Canada, there’s also usually skiing . The increasingly popular resorts of the Rockies and BC are the main areas and the country’s leading resorts are at Whistler, Banff and Lake Louise. But there’s also great skiing in Québec, and a few good runs at the minor day resorts that dot the other provinces. Most cities are also close to excellent cross-country trail networks.

Canadian ski packages are available from travel agents worldwide, but it’s perfectly feasible to organize your own trips, as long as you book well ahead if you’re hoping to stay in some of the better-known resorts. Costs for food, accommodation and ski passes are still fairly modest by US and European standards: expect to pay $50–75 per day (depending on the quality and popularity of the resort) for lift passes, plus another $30 or more per day to rent equipment.

Canada is fishing nirvana. While each region has its specialities, from the Arctic char of the Northwest Territories to the Pacific salmon of BC, excellent fishing can be found in most of the country’s abundant lakes, rivers and coastal waters. Many towns have a fishing shop for equipment, and any spot with fishing possibilities is likely to have companies running boats and charters. Most provinces publish detailed booklets on everything that swims within the area of their jurisdiction.

Fishing is governed by a range of regulations that vary between provinces and are usually baffling at first glance, but usually boil down to the need for a nonresident permit for freshwater fishing, and another for saltwater fishing. These are increasingly available online (search the provincial government websites) or from most local fishing or sports shops for $60 and up, and are valid for a year. Short-term (one- or six-day) licences are also available in some provinces ($15–30). For nonresidents, fishing in Ontario requires an Outdoors Card for $11.94 (valid for three years; if you plan to fish for one day only, you can skip this), plus a fishing licence: one year is $85.53, while one day is $25.27 (call t 1 800 387 7011). Alberta fishing licences are $70.90 (one year) and $28 (one day); Northwest Territories charges $40 per season and $30 for three days; while BC charges a whopping $80 annually ($20 for one day). Newfoundland licences are required for salmon ($53 per season) and trout ($8 per season), with seasons strictly regulated. Additional permits are required to fish in national parks (where fishing is allowed); available from park administration centres, these cost around $34.30 annually or $9.80 daily. There may well be quotas on the types and numbers of fish you can catch, which you can find out when you buy a permit.

Opportunities for canoeing are limited only by problems of access and expertise: some of the rapids and portages on the country’s more challenging routes are for real pros only. The most straightforward regions to canoe are in Ontario , with its estimated 250,000 lakes and 35,000km of waterways, some 25,000km of which have been documented as practical canoe routes. The key areas are the Algonquin, Killarney and Quetico provincial parks, though the single most popular run is the 190km Rideau Canal, a tame stretch from Kingston to Ottawa.

The rivers of BC offer generally more demanding whitewater routes, though the lake canoeing – in Wells Gray Provincial Park, for example – is among the country’s most beautiful. One of the province’s other recognized classics is the 120km trip near Barkerville on the Cariboo River and the lakes of the Bowron Lakes Provincial Park. More challenging still are the immense backcountry lakes and rivers of the Mackenzie River system and the Barrenlands of the Northwest Territories , where you can find one of the continent’s ultimate river challenges – the 300km stretch of the South Nahanni River near Fort Simpson. Growing in popularity, partly because of improved road access, are trips on and around the Yukon River system, particularly the South Macmillan River east of Pelly Crossing. Other areas that will test the resources of any canoeist are to be found in Manitoba and Labrador – all detailed in this guide.

Once you’ve decided on an area, provincial tourist offices can provide full lists of outfitters . These will rent out equipment, organize boat and plane drop-offs, and arrange provisions for longer trips. Costs range from $150 to $250 for weekly canoe rental.

Realistically, your biggest irritations while hiking are likely to be mosquitoes, flies and blackflies and hiking in the Canadian wilderness is far safer than wandering around most cities, but make no mistake, bears are potentially very dangerous, and most people blow a whistle while walking in bear country to warn them off. If confronted don’t run, make loud noises or sudden movements, all of which are likely to provoke an attack.

Cougars pose a somewhat lesser threat, with most attacks occurring in BC – unlike bears, the best strategy with cougars is to try and fight them off (they usually avoid groups altogether).

Snake bites are more common in some parts of Canada (there are rattlesnakes in Georgian Bay Islands National Park for example), but even then only a handful are reported each year and fatalities are rare – wear proper boots and if you do disturb a snake back away so that it has room to move freely. Even the most venomous bites can be treated successfully if you receive immediate medical attention (call t 911 or notify park staff).

It’s pure paddling pleasure in Ontario, with Point Pelee National Park’s winding freshwater marshes and Algonquin Provincial Park’s network of lakes.

The islets of Québec’s Mingan Archipelago or BC’s lush Gulf Islands are both national park reserves.

Jasper’s Icefields Parkway is a superlative mountain drive, but the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Highlands is a fine maritime alternative.

Banff’s credentials can’t be denied, but to escape the crowds, head to Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland.

Radium or Banff Upper hot springs in the Rockies: both offer steaming waters to soothe the tired traveller.

Nahanni National Park in the Northwest Territories just edges Jasper for wild whitewater thrills.

Travel advice for Canada

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Canada

• Spectator sports
• Travel Tips Canada for planning and on the go
• Eating and drinking in Canada
• How to get to Canada
• Getting around Canada: Transportation Tips
• Best time to visit Canada

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.05.2021

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Welcome to Canada, the land of openness. Where wide open spaces inspire guests and locals welcome everyone with open hearts. All you need to bring is an open mind. And maybe a light jacket. Can’t hurt to be prepared.

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Canada Travel Guide

Your ultimate canada travel guide, with tips, ideas on things to do, and best things to see in canada. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Why Canada ? Full of natural beauty and plenty of activities for fans of the outdoors, Canada is a great vacation spot.

From skiing and snowboarding to kayaking and canoeing, to spotting grizzly bears and the Northern Lights, there are many things to see and do in Canada.

Add in metropolitan cities like Montreal with its shops and exciting nightlife, and Canada has something for everyone.

This Canada travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

To browse all our articles about Canada click here.

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Fast Facts about Canada

• Currency: The official currency is the Canadian Dollar and 1 Canadian Dollar is equal to 0.79 USD. American dollars are accepted in Canada, though change will be in Canadian Dollars.
• Power: Power voltage is 120V at 60 Hz.
• Entry:  To enter, you will need a U.S. passport valid for at least 6 months after your departure date.
• Getting Around : The best way to get around is by public transport or renting a car but beware, Italians are hairy drivers!
• Sales tax : The provincial sales tax for goods and services is set at 7 – 8%, plus GST which is set at 5% which can bring the tax up to 15% depending on the provinces. For more information click here
• The Capital City of Canada is Ottawa – See the Best Things to do in Ottawa.

Things to See and Do in Canada

• Whistler, BC  – Largest Ski Resort in the World, Hiking and Downhill Mountain biking,  Bobsledding ,  snowmobiling , outdoor fun.
• Our particular favourite is  snowboarding in Whistler or Lake Louise  
• Walking with Polar Bears in Manitoba.
• Kayaking the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick or Nova Scotia.
• Quebec City  is Canada’s most European destination and one of the oldest cities in North America established way back in 1608
• Aboriginal Experience – Canada’s First Nations People are welcoming and are a fascinating culture to visit. There are many chances to immerse in aboriginal culture in Canada.
• Niagara Falls – The Canadian side of Niagara Falls is an amazing destination with magnificent views, nightlife and lots of things to do.
• Icefields Parkway – One of the world’s most beautiful drives is from Banff to Jasper and not to be missed.
• Cabot Trail – Incredible scenic drive on the East Coast with whale watching, lobster fishing and awesome views.

Canada Travel Guides

• Best Things to do in Toronto
• Best Things to do in Alberta
• Epic Things to do in Ontario
• Beautiful Places in Alberta
• Nova Scotia Road Trip
• Drive the Dempster Highway
• Best British Columbia Road Trip
• Things to do in Winnipeg
• Best of New Brunswick
• Things to do in Prince Edward Island (PEI)

Accommodation

Budget: You can find a number of budget hotels and hostels for around 20-65 Canadian Dollars. Enjoy dorm-styled or private rooms, common areas, shared kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to city or scenic locations. 

Mid Range: For mid-range hotels, expect to pay 100 to 200 Canadian Dollars per night. Stay in hotels with private rooms, free Wi-Fi, a fitness center, complimentary breakfast, and a restaurant and bar.

High End: Upscale hotels will range from 230 to 500 Canadian Dollars, with the top hotels going up to over 1,000 Canadian Dollars per night. Take in the best with top-of-the-line hospitality and room service, upscale private guest rooms, spa services, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness centers, fine dining, and more. Certain hotels near the water also provide kayak services.

• If you are starting your trip in Toronto check out our suggestions for where to stay in Toronto
• Read: Where to Stay in Vancouver and Where to Stay in Montreal
• Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

The food in Canada has a wide variety of influences, including French, English, Scottish, and First Nations cuisine.

Poutine (fries, gravy, and cheese curds) is a popular dish here, while Nova Scotian lobster rolls are another. If you’re looking for some snacks or desserts, try a Montreal bagel (a sweeter version of a New York bagel, usually topped with sesame or poppy seeds) or a butter tart (eggs, butter, and sugar baked in a pastry shell).

Canada has many great restaurants and cafes where you can try some Canadian food. Expect to pay around 65 Canadian Dollars for a day of food.

Canada’s national drink is the Bloody Caesar, it’s like a Bloody Mary but it is made with Clamato juice. Give it a try, you’ll love it.

The Best Ways to Get Around Canada

Getting to canada:.

The Toronto Pearson International Airport is the busiest airport in Canada and is just a 30-minute taxi ride to downtown or you can take the UpExpress leaving the airport every 15 minutes to downtown.

The Vancouver International Airport and the Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airports are two alternative options, especially when traveling to those cities.

You can check for the best flights to Canada on Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Canada is a massive country and if you want to get around from Province to Province, the best bet is to fly.

Trains are a fast way to get around, especially in larger cities but trains are more expensive in Canada compared to places like Europe and Asia.

If you want to go from Toronto to Vancouver at a more leisurely pace, take The Canadian, an 86-hour trip where you can enjoy beautiful scenic views, dine and sleep in a bed in your private cabin, and enjoy stops at Winnipeg, Edmonton , and Jasper.

Buses : Buses are a good way to get around. You can take the Greyhound or the Megabus and it is a cheap option to get from city to city.

Major cities have rapid transit and light rail systems to get you where you need to go quickly. A typical fare is 3.64 Canadian Dollars.

Taxis:   Taxis are an alternative way to get around. Prices typically start at 3.50- 4 Canadian Dollars and increase 2 Canadian Dollars per kilometer traveled. Uber and Lyft are widely used in major Canadian cities.

Car Rental:   To rent a car, you must be at least 21 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Check for prices and availability here.

When to go To Canada

• Canada has four seasons and there is no bad time to visit Canada if you are prepared for the weather.
• Summer (June to August) is a good time for road trips , canoeing, hiking, and exploring cities.
• Winter (November to February) is great for skiing, ice skating, and winter carnivals .
• Spring (late March to May) can be unpredictable with a mix of snow, rain and warm sunshine and the same can be said for Autumn (September/October) although Autumn is usually dry.
• September through November is considered the best time to go to Canada, as peak tourism has ended (meaning fewer crowds and lower hotel prices) and there are many beautiful autumn leaves to see. However, for those going to Canada for winter sports, January to March is when the snow conditions are at their peak and is a great time for skiing or snowboarding. 

Where to Stay in Canada

Fairmont Lake Louise : Fairmont Lake Louise. I don’t know if there is another hotel in the world with a view like this. It’s worth the spurge to spend a night here when visiting Banff.

Ritz Carlton Toronto: The Ritz Carlton Toronto is in the heart of it all near the Entertainment District, Harborfront, and CN Tower. Pure Luxury in Canada’s Largest City

Prince George Hotel Halifax : Located in the heart of Halifax this grand hotel is pure luxury and within walking distance of everything.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor , and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

Canada Accommodation Guides

• Where to Stay in Toronto
• Where to Stay in Niagara Falls
• 24 Fantastic Things to do in Saint John New Brunswick
• Where to Stay in Vancouver – Best Hotels & Vacation Rentals By Area
• Things to do in Calgary, Alberta
• Where to Stay in Montreal
• Where to Stay in Nova Scotia
• 15 Best Things to do in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
• Where to Stay in Banff
• Things to do in Jasper
• 14 Things to do in Winnipeg – Plus Other Hidden Gems
• The Best Things to do in Toronto – A Guide to the Top Attractions

What to Pack for Canada

If you travel to cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal in the summer, it’s hot and you can dress as you would in any major metropolis around the world. For winter travel in Canada, expect extremely cold weather. Canada has winter, period.

If you are going to the Rocky Mountains, the North or East Coasts, it can be cool any time of year so pack in layers. Nights can get cool even in the middle of summer in all provinces.

• Hiking Boots: Keep your feet comfortable with a sturdy pair of hiking boots.
• Layers: Be prepared no matter the weather by bringing clothes with layers.
• Waterproof Coat: As it can rain, a waterproof coat is a good item to bring.
• For winter travel to Canada, check out our tips for how to survive the winter deep freeze.
• Dress in layers and be prepared for cool nights, (even in the summer and especially in the mountains.
• How to Pack for a winter vacation read – Travel Tips for Winter Packing

Canada Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Canada Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Canada click here.

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The Ultimate Canada Travel Guide

C anada has been the spotlight of the travel community this year, and with good reason. Lonely Planet ranked it 2017's top country for travel, and Canada has been the word ever since. The icing on the cake? This year only, Canada is offering  free admission to all national parks and historic sites . No better time to visit, eh!

Despite the recent hype, Canada's beauty has been long renowned. Our snow-smeared mountains resemble the cosiest of snow globe scenes, and the glacial lakes are as brightly emerald as photos portray. And our overly polite reputation? Well  sorry , but I'm afraid that's true too.

As thrifty Canadians ourselves, a thorough guide to our home country is long overdue. We've driven across Canada via a 1-cent per day RV relocation , explored both sea-soaked coasts, and ventured the far North in search of the Yukon's aurora. Here's our ultimate travel guide to seeing Canada affordably!

• 1 How much does a trip to Canada cost?
• 2 When to Go
• 3 Where to Go
• 4 Transportation
• 5 Accommodation
• 6 Activities & Tours
• 7 Food & Drink
• 8 The Thrifty Gist

How much does a trip to Canada cost?

First things first, Canada isn't cheap. Food, accommodation, and activities are fairly comparable to Europe or Australia. Tax is not included for nearly all food and goods, so prices can be deceiving. In addition to tax, tipping 15-18% is expected for drinking, dining, and tours.

But don't be dismayed – there are plenty of ways to reduce your costs here. A conservative travel budget for Canada would be $80 USD per day to cover accommodation (e.g. dorms and humble AirBNBs ), food, and potentially activities. This depends largely on how basic your accommodation is, and whether you choose free entertainment versus day tours. A mid-range amount would be $80-$200 USD, again, varying  hugely based on your pace of travel, activities, mode of transport, and more.

Most Canadians would tout that our country is beautiful year-round – and we can't argue with that. Ultimately, trip timing should be based on what you want to see. Each season has its own festivals, foods, and unique natural displays. Travellers are spoilt for choice here!

Winter (November – February)

Winter in Canada is snowy, other-worldly, and of course, cold . Our already incredulous landscapes of mountains, rivers, and forests become more majestic when draped in a fluffy layer of snow. Take note that the west coast tends to have milder, rainier winters. Top winter highlights include:

• Snow-smothered mountains and landscapes (British Columbia, Alberta, Yukon, Northwest Territories are great for this). Winter sports are popular country-wide, including skiing, sledding, snow-shoeing, and ice skating.
• A wonderfully winter-y Québec , the French-influenced province with delightful European vibes. Montréal and Quebec City are pure magic in the winter months – check our Montréal winter bucket list  here .
• A frozen Niagara Falls (if the temps are cold enough!), colourfully lit during the Fallsview Winter Festival of Lights.
• Delectable winter eats like maple taffy (maple syrup drizzled on snow, twirled onto a popsicle stick). A cup of mulled wine is also great for frigid fingers!
• Infinite winter festivals – a quick Google search will reveal local events. Popular ones include the Quebec Winter Carnival (Carnaval de Québec), Winterlude in Ottawa, and Montreal's Festival of Lights (Montréal en Lumière).

Spring (March to June)

Springtime is bloom time, and is also the shoulder season of travel. This means less festivals and events, but far less tourists too. The snow has melted (or is melt ing ), animals emerge from hibernation, and greenery reappears. Spring also brings lots of rain, so prep for wet days. Springtime highlights include:

• Spotting 10,000 year old glaciers floating through the ocean. In April to late June, Newfoundland and Labrador providers optimal viewing in “Iceberg Alley”. You can even kayak right up to them!
• Outdoor activities like white water rafting gain popularity with increased river flow from snow melt-off in early spring.
• Vancouver's Cherry Blossom Festival  is one of Canada's few major spring festivals. This event celebrates the city's perfumed blossoms, which embellish the city in hues of pink.

Summer (June to September)

Summer is a favourite, albeit fleeting, season for Canadians. Temps average between 20 and 30 degrees depending on where you are (our weather is generally erratic). A hurried energy fills in the air as people squeeze in as much sunshine as possible. Summer highlights include:

• Wildlife spotting via hiking or camping . With our elusive animals being more active, the chance to spot moose, bears, deer, beavers, and other wildlife increases.
• Festival season! Summer is packed with events across the country, from music and art, to food and wine. Some of the big ones include Calgary Stampede  (Alberta),  Celebration of Light (Vancouver),  Montreal Jazz Festival  (Québec), and  Just for Laughs  (nationwide, originates from Montréal).
• Infinite backyard barbecues . Connect with some locals and experience a classic Canadian summer's night with BBQ'd food, bonfires, and good company.
• Outdoor sports – kayaking, canoeing, and the ultra Canadian choice – portaging. Portaging is an alternation between canoeing and carrying your canoe overland for water and land-based exploring. Not for the weak-armed!

Fall (September to November)

Fall is another top contender for most-loved season. Canadian autumn is world famous for the spectacular leaf colour changes that occur as temperatures drop. This paints mountains and forests in rustic shades of orange, yellow, and red. Fall highlights include:

• Polar bear spotting . These creatures are incredibly  out of the way and require expensive tours to see, but once you do, it's worth every effort. From October to November polar bears (and beluga whales) are spottable at Churchill, Manitoba and Baffin Island, Nunavut as they fatten up for winter. Tours are mandatory, and are available either as a day tour , or a package trip through TourRadar ,  G Adventures or Viator .
• Spirit bear watching . Spirit bears are a rare subspecies of black bears (not albino). These mystic creatures are spottable in fall as they fatten up for hibernation. They are best viewed on the west coast from August to September. The Spirit Bear Lodge is a dedicated lodging tour operator for spirit bear spotting.
• Finding fabulous trails, drives, and lookouts for changing leaves changing is a staple activity for Canadian autumn. Each province has leaf change tracking websites (e.g. here for Ontario) to track the where/when of colour changes.
• Toronto's wonderfully quirky  Nuit Blanche  takes place each October. This eclectic all-night arts event speckles immersive pieces and experiences across the entire city.
• Canadian Thanksgiving takes on the second Monday of October every year. This involves a huge feast of roast turkey drizzled in spices, served with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, gravy, and more. If you cannot find a local family to dine with (try searching BonAppetour ), try to find a restaurant putting on a Thanksgiving roast.

Where to Go

Canada is massive  – in fact, it's the second biggest country on the planet!  Even if you're long-term travelling, scratching its surface is an enormous task.

To start, choose one or two regions to cover. It's best to determine what kind of scenery and activities you want to narrow down your choices. If you're covering a few areas, it is likely you'll need to connect your trip with flights.

Need inspiration? We have a great roundup of some of Canada's best national parks here , and some epic driving routes  here  to get the Canadian wanderlust flowing.

“West Coast, best coast” is a phrase touted by residents of Canada's westernmost province, British Columbia (B.C.). This province, along with its neighbour Alberta, are a popular combo for first-time visitors. Much of Canada's quintessential wildlife and scenery can be found here, amidst lots of other highlights including:

• Mountainous scenery and mountain-based activities . The famous Canadian Rockies wind through both B.C. and Alberta. Many mountains here boast glacial lakes whose neon hue will suck the “wow” right out of you. Skiing and mountain sports are hugely popular here and Whistler – home to the 2010 winter Olympics – begs a visit in summer or winter, whether hitting the powder or hovering the mountains by gondola.
• Beautiful and accessible nature .  If visiting Vancouver, Stanley Park is not to be skipped. Arguably the most beautiful city park in the world, Stanley has oceanside views, towering forestry, and the delectable scent of cedar, fir, and spruce trees hanging in the air.
• Quintessential Canadian wildlife . Keen to see bears, moose, beavers, elk, and more? B.C. is one of the best places to view them. Whistler is perhaps the most accessible from Vancouver, but the province's parks are also a great place to search for wildlife.
• An iconic city and skyline . Vancouver has an unbeatable skyline – its modern, shiny downtown sits perched along the Pacific Ocean, while a backdrop of snow-drizzled mountains tower behind. Trendy bars and restaurants abound, as well as plenty of nearby hikes and biking trails to escape the city bustle.

The Great White North

The true great North is a rugged venture to get to, but it is well worth every effort (and penny!) once you've made it. The “North” is comprised of Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. Of the three, Yukon is perhaps most accessible as it can be most affordably combined with a visit to B.C. Here's what's the Great White North has in store for its visitors:

• Aurora (Northern Lights) spotting . Whitehorse, Yukon and Yellowknife, Northwest Territories are the most accessible places for spotting the incredulous Northern Lights. September to March is the best time for viewing. To avoid the coldest months, Sept-Nov and Feb-March are best. The cheapest times are tourist shoulder season, around September and March. You can compare viewing tours along with reviews on Viator .
•   Epic road tripping . The remote landscapes here feel that much more otherworldly when you jump in a car and explore them. A great drive is to do a figure-eight loop through the Yukon and Alaska (outlined in this post). You'll pretty much be guaranteed bear sightings and a visual feast of mountainous scenery.
• Remote national parks . The North has several stunning national parks including Kluane National Park (Yukon), Auyuittuq National  Park (Nunavut), and Nahanni National Park Reserve (Northwest Territories). Camping or cabin-hopping here is a must !

The Prairies

Besides Alberta, Canada's prairies are one of the nation's lesser visited regions. But don't be mistaken, this area is teaming with unexpected treasures. While much of this region is well, prairies , which harvest a large supply of the world's wheat, don't miss out on any of these gems:

• Polar bear spotting . Churchill, Manitoba is remote and expensive to get to, but is one of the best places on earth to for polar bear watching. Tours are required (trust us, you wouldn't want to watch these notoriously aggressive beasts without one!).
• The freshest steak in the country.  Alberta produces nearly 3% of the world's beef – this is the place to sink your teeth into some! Calgary has many acclaimed steak restaurants – the best steak we ever had was at  Model Milk . Be sure to try the “Fat Kid Cake 2.0” if you have room for dessert!
• Cowboy culture and country livin' . The world famous Calgary Stampede displays Canada's “cowboy” culture in July each year. Featuring a rodeo, concerts, acrobatics shows, and more, there's plenty to see and do!
• Spectacular mountain ranges and national parks . As mentioned in this post, Jasper and Banff National Park are some of Canada's most visited national parks, and justifiably so. Both parks offer prime opportunities for wildlife spotting and a breathtaking selection of mountains and lakes.
• Visit the world's oldest, biggest dinosaur fossils . Dinos in Canada? Yep, we've got 'em (or their fossils at least!). The Alberta Badlands are home to tens of thousands of dinosaur fossils. You can view them in sediment at Dinosaur Provincial Park , or see the biggies on display at the Royal Tyrell Museum.

Central Canada

Central Canada is home to some of the nation's biggest cities, as well a delightful array of national and provincial parks. The terrain here is flatter (no towering mountains), but houses an abundance of gorgeous lakes and forests. Here's what the centre of the country has to offer:

• Historic sites and parliamentary buildings . Ottawa is home to parliamentary buildings, quaint historic streets, and the picturesque Rideau Canal (which you can skate on in winter). Québec is teeming with historic sites and cobblestoned streets – Québec City and Montréal being the best to wander.
• Trendy cities, eclectic art, and buzzing nightlife . Toronto and Montréal are rich in music, arts, and festivals. Both cities have plentiful bars and clubs for those seeking booze or a boogie. The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) in Toronto is a must for art lovers, as is Montréal's Museum of Fine Arts. Toronto's CityPASS and Montreal's Passporte MTL are great ways to see some of the top attractions in each city at a deep discount.
• Visit the world-famous Niagara Falls . 1.5 hours north of Toronto lies  Niagara Falls. Each second, thousands of tonnes of turqouise water spills over Niagara's cliffs. Be warned, the entire immediate vicinity surrounding the falls is the epiphany of tourist tacky. Casinos, buffets, and the biggest selection of mini putt you've ever seen – you get the idea. That said, if you know what to expect, you can still have a tacky great time! A huge number of day tours from Toronto and within the Niagara region can be instantly booked on Viator and GetYourGuide .
• Taste and explore Niagara wine region . Counteracting the tackiness that is Niagara Falls is the splendidly serene Niagara wine region. Niagara-on-the-lake is a quaint Canadian town speckled with fudge shops, homemade goods like quilts and scarves, and adorable cafes. It's also a great base for exploring the region's plentiful vineyards. We recommend exploring with a wine tour so that you can safely taste all the wine you want without worrying about driving or getting from one winery to the next. If visiting wineries independently, a car or bike is recommended – local buses exist, but are sporadic. Here is also one of the few places on earth producing ice wine – a sweet, syrupy dessert beverage made from frozen grapes. It is divine!
• A taste of France in Canada . Québec was colonized by the French hundreds of years ago, and their influence has led to a uniquely French Canadian flair ever since. Montréal is a captivating city, and feels foreign even to resident Canadians with its cobblestoned streets and French cuisine (poutine and crepes are a must !). If visiting Montréal in winter, be sure to check our bucket list items  here .

Canada's East is made up of New Brunswick, P.E.I., Nova Scotia, and Newfoundland and Labrador (the latter two names being a single province). A bite-sized east coast trip would include New Brunswick, P.E.I., and Nova Scotia. Newfoundland and Labrador is stunning, but more remote and pricier to get to and explore. This side of Canada offers red sand beaches, fresh seafood, and classic Canadian wildlife like moose and deer. Other eastern must-do's are:

• Witness the world's highest tidal change . The Bay of Fundy (in New Brunswick) is home to the world's highest change of tide – up to 17 metres (56 feet) tidal change takes place here. During each 12 hour tidal change, 115 billion tonnes of water flow in and out of the bay. This is also a good region for whale watching .
• Wander genuine viking settlements . An unknown fact to many is that Canada was in fact a settlement place for vikings as far back as 1,000 A.D. These can be visited in L'Anse aux Meadows, Newfoundland.
• Watch 10,000 year old icebergs bobble and crash . Newfoundland and Labrador are primely located south of the Arctic. Each spring, icebergs break off of ancient glaciers and hobble down what's known as “Iceberg Alley”. One can take tours to see them up close by boat.
• Visit fjord and waterfall filled national parks . Arguably reminiscent of Iceland, Newfoundland's Gros Morne National Park is a must-visit for this region. Endless stretches of fjords, fields, and stomach-churning cliffs are just some of the delights in this remote slice of Canada.
• Embark on one of Canada's best coastal drives . Nova Scotia's Cabot Trail is one of Canada's most impressive drives. The trail winds through Cape Breton National Park, alternating between oceanside stretches and moose-ladenl forests.
• Indulge in Canada's Gaelic culture . Having been inhabited by refugees from the Scottish Highlights centuries ago, Canada's east has a strong Gaelic influence that is still alive today. Watching a local Ceilidh (a show of string music and traditional dancing) is an absolute must.

Transportation

Flights to and within Canada are generally not cheap. We do not have budget airlines, and our airline taxes make tickets wildly expensive compared to other countries. Sale and error fares  to/from Canada do exist – including to/from the United States – but this requires flexibility. Some international budget airlines, such as Spirit and WOW Air , are now offering international flights into Canada.

Where you fly into will depend on your route. Here's a quick breadown:

• West coast (i.e. “mountainous” Pacific region) : Start and end in Vancouver (British Columbia) or Calgary (Alberta).
• The Prairies : either Calgary (Alberta), Saskatoon (Saskatchewan), or Winnipeg (Manitoba).
• The North and Arctic Canada : Whitehorse (Yukon) is a great base for exploring both the Yukon and Alaska, as well as aurora spotting. Fly into Iqaluit (Nunavut) to explore the arctic. Yellowknife is best for explore the Northwest Territories and also aurora spotting, though most of these flights will require a connection via Calgary or Vancouver.
• Central Canada:  Fly into Toronto (Ontario), which is also a good base for visiting Niagara Falls (can be done as a 1-2 day trip). Toronto is also a departure point for driving or flying to Ottawa, the nation's capital. For Canada's “European” region of Quebec, fly into Montreal.
• The East Coast (i.e. Atlantic): fly into  Charlottetown (P.E.I.), Halifax (Nova Scotia), or St. John's (Newfoundland and Labrador). These may require connections if flying internationally.

If you're doing a big Canada trip, it could be cost-effective to book an open-jaw flight. If making several stops,  Kiwi is great for constructing complex, multi-leg itineraries. To identify the cheapest dates to fly, we recommend  Skyscanner  and selecting “whole month” to visualize the month's pricing. For more tips, check our other flight booking hacks here .

Domestic Flights

Canada is well connected by (overpriced) flights. The somewhat “budget” airlines include  Porter , Flair , and Air Canada's Jazz , though true bargain fares are rare.

If you are visiting more remote regions (e.g. Northern British Columbia, Yukon, etc.), these areas often have smaller, regional airlines only. As such, these do not always show up in major airline search engines, so be sure to always Google search for local airlines (e.g. “Yukon local airline”).

Car, Campervan, or RV Rental

Canada is one of the best places to explore by car. When planning a road trip, be generous with driving times and allocating days in your itinerary . The distances are long and the scenic stops plenty . If your days are too packed with no time for whimsical stops, you won't feel like you've really “seen” much of Canada at all!

Car rental pricing varies by season and demand. Upwards of $25 USD per day is standard for a compact vehicle. You're wise to book in advance (especially in summer) to at least “hold” a good rate if cancellation is free. We recommend BookingBuddy , which lets you compare many car rental sites in a single search. For more car rental hacks, check our other tips here .

An RV or campervan is an excellent mode of transport, given that it doubles as accommodation. This can be a major saver in tourist hotspots like Banff and Jasper (where many of Canada's famous glacial lakes and mountains are pictured).  Keep in mind that bigger, grander RVs guzzle gas quickly. If you can split an RV or camper with friends or fellow travellers, you'll reduce your costs.

Outdoorsy pitches itself as the Airbnb of RV and campervan rentals, letting you book an RV direct from an owner for a fraction of the cost of a standard RV rental (which can easily cost thousands in daily rates, add-ons, and mileage). Insurance and 24/7 roadside assistance is included in all bookings. If you want to book an RV, Outdoorsy is one of the best options.

RV and campervan relocation deals  exist in Canada, but are typically posted last minute (~2-3 weeks before the required departure date). Peer-to-peer RV sharing is another great way to reduce costs. Sites like Wheel Estate connect RV/campervan owners with those wishing to rent them when not in use.

Regional buses connect much of Canada's small towns and cities. If you aren't renting a car, bus travel is typically your cheapest transport between cities and provinces.

Greyhound is the biggest bus operator in Canada, with routes in nearly every province and territory. Tickets purchased seven days in advance are reduced in price. Discounts for military, seniors, and students also apply.

STA Travel offers hop-on hop-off bus passes, providing greater flexibility at reduced cost. These include fixed small group tours, or a non-accommodated hop-on hop-off pass valid for 6 months.

Megabus is a low-cost bus carrier that is notorious for its low prices, but temperamental service. Arrival and departure times are spotty, and buses are sometimes overbooked. We highly recommend paying the small extra fee for reserved seating to ensure you get a spot. Megabus operates between Ontario, Quebec, and some U.S. cities.  Coach Canada  also runs routes around Ontario and select U.S. cities.

Canada's cross-country railway is one the most impressive train routes worldwide. Tourist and commuter routes are mainly operated by VIA Rail . VIA's most famed experience is the sleeper class trains, where the train cars' glass roofs provide full visibility to mountains, forests, and wildlife. This is a unique and breathtaking way to see Canada, with the hefty price tag to prove it.

Regular (non-sleeper class) trains are more affordable than domestic flights, but pricier than buses. Prices typically start at $31 USD for shorter one-way routes, upwards of $120 USD for longer ones. Tickets are sold in a tiered system, with basic economy as the lowest fare, up to business class. This means in order to get the best price, it's best to book in advance  before cheap fares sell out. Concession rates exist for students with an ISIC card .

Every Tuesday, VIA Rail posts sale fares  here  (or sign up for their newsletter for a reminder). National and regional rail passes are also available, including 21-day and 60-day passes. These are pricey, but can be worthwhile for lengthier trips covering a lot of ground.

Public Transport

Public transit is available in most major cities and suburbs, with bus coverage at minimum. Major capital cities will have a more sophisticated network of subways or trains. Ride passes are often available and can provide better transit fares. For directions, Google Maps is linked up with public transport, or you can simply ask a transit worker for assistance and a map.

Taxis & Ride Sharing

Taxis are abundant in Canada, as is ride sharing. Ride share services like Uber are typically much cheaper, especially in cities with idling traffic like Toronto, Montréal, or Vancouver. Get $10 off your first ride with coupon code uberthriftynomads .

Bike sharing services are common in Canada's major cities, and can be a great way to create a DIY city tour. Simply pick up a bike from a docking station and return it to another one anywhere in the city.

Rental rates are around $4 USD per hour, though better fares apply for longer trips (e.g. 1-day use or a membership). The bike share services in Canada's major cities are:

• Montreal: Bixi
• Toronto: Bike Share Toronto
• Ottawa: VeloGo
• Vancouver: Mobi Bikes

Accommodation

Accommodation options and prices in Canada are somewhat comparable to Europe or Australia. Dorm beds are $20-$40 USD, camp sites $20-$40 USD, budget hotels ~$60-$100 USD (depending on proximity to city centre), and mid-range and higher hotels $130+ USD. Last minute deals do exist, but touristy regions will sell out and drive up rates in peak season (e.g. summer and winter). Broad hotel search engines like HotelsCombined and TripAdvisor will reveal most options.

Ways to Save

Book last minute.

If your schedule allows it and it isn't peak season, last minute hotel deals are a great way to save. These are often aggregated on apps and websites like HotelTonight  or Hotwire . TravelZoo  often does a nice roundup (“Top 20”) of hot deals, sometimes including higher end hotels in touristy regions. Another clever service is  Roomer , which allows you to take over a hotel reservation of someone who no longer wants it, at a discounted rate.

Use sharing economy services

Sharing economy services like AirBNB are a great way to slash sleeping costs.  AirBNB is plentiful countrywide, and arguably provides the best bang for your buck  for accommodation. Private rooms typically cost less than a dorm bed if you are two or more people. It can even be used to find places (i.e. backyards) to camp in.

Housesitting is common in Canada, as is house swapping (check our how-to guide on these  here ). This is a more feasible option for those with flexible travel plans, or if you can arrange a sit or swap before your trip date. Dog Vacay is a fairly new service which invites one to look after someone's pet in their own home, or the pet owner's home.

Many universities and colleges across the country will rent out dorm rooms when they are unoccupied in summer or during holidays. There are aggregate sites like University Rooms , or conduct a search via Google or  TripAdvisor  forums to check with locals' knowledge.

Craiglist and Kijiji are popular posting platforms for selling goods like sports equipment and clothing (perfect for picking up ski and camping gear for your trip), as well as listing rental accommodation and ridesharing. For a complete list of the types of sharing economy services out there, check out comprehensive post here .

Build meaningful connections

Canadians are famously friendly, and it's not uncommon for them to open their homes to travellers. Establishing a basic friendship is a good place to start. One can begin seek out connections via platforms like Twitter, Facebook groups, or websites like Reddit (look for sub-reddits in the city you're visiting, like Vancouver or Toronto ). Hostel dorms are also a great place to meet travellers who may happen to have connections in your country of visit.

Work in exchange for accommodation

If you're travelling long term, you can easily combine travel with work to reduce or eliminate accommodation costs. Firstly, you can work in hostel dorms in exchange for your bed. One of the most common work exchange programs is  WWOOF  – Willing Workers on Organic Farms. This service usually provides accommodation for free in exchange for work on farms, vineyards, and more, with additional pay sometimes included as well.

For other tips on how to work abroad while travelling, read our detailed guide here .

Camping in Canada is a rite of passage for any visitor. It's not only an easy way to sleep on a budget, but a great way to immerse yourself in our country's natural beauty. For 2017 only, all national parks have no admission charge, so this is the year to camp as much as you can!

If you want to reduce camping costs, there's a few ways to do so as park fees do add up. One option is to pay to camp at people's private properties via sites like Gamping . If driving an RV or campervan, it is an unwritten rule that Walmart allows travellers to park overnight in the back of their parking lots. You can also obtain a camping membership to get reduced rates across several sites. For a list of camping memberships, check this post here .

Activities & Tours

Canada has a wealth of cheap and free activities on offer. Sites like Groupon  and TravelZoo can be useful for discounted activities, particularly touristy ones. In any city you visit, be sure to check for national parks, walking trails, and city parks as these are often cheap or free. Vancouver's Stanley Park is perhaps one of the most impressive city parks in the world, and it doesn't cost a dime!

Group tours can be a great for both day venturing or longer trips. Organized tours are often essential to visit particular sites, such as glaciers, boat tours, or historic sites.

Below is a list of some of the more popular tours to do in Canada. All these links allow you to book online with immediate confirmation:

• Niagara Falls Horn blower falls tour (Niagara Falls, Ontario): Book on GetYourGuide or Viator
• Orca (killer whale) watching (West Coast): Book on GetYourGuide or Viator
• Polar bear watching (Churchill, Manitoba): Book as a day tour , or as a package tour through TourRadar ,  G Adventures or Viator
• Northern Lights tours (Yellowknife, NWT and Whitehorse, Yukon): Book on Viator
• Wildlife tour through Jasper and Banff, Alberta (note: you can DIY this yourself, but those tight on time or not wishing to drive may prefer an organized tour): Book on Viator ( Jasper , Banff ) and GetYourGuide ( Jasper , Banff )

Food & Drink

Like America, fast food chains are the cheapest eats here. Tim Hortons is our national coffee chain, which serves up healthy-ish mediocre food. Bagels and cream cheese, light salads, sandwiches, and soups can all be bought for $2-$8 USD, while hot drinks range from upwards of $1.60+ USD.

Mid-range restaurants vary from $10-$20 USD per meal, and upwards of $20 USD for a nicer venue. Breakfast is often the best bang for your buck, especially at diners where small hot meals can range from $4 USD upwards. Lunch specials are common at restaurants, sometimes around the $8 USD mark. Dinner is most expensive to dine out for. Food trucks are common in some cities (e.g. Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary) and can offer quick cheap food options.

Keep in mind that menu prices do not include the provincial sales tax (8-13%) and a tip (15-18%, but only expected at sit-down restaurants). Groupon can be good for finding reduced restaurant prices, but cross-check reviews on TripAdvisor or Yelp  before buying.

Prepping your own food is always cheapest, whether that means packing simple eats for breakfast (e.g. fruit and granola bars), or tortilla wraps with your simple choice of filling such as tuna or peanut butter. Farmers markets exist in most major cities, and can be great for stocking up on fresh produce and locally farmed eats.

The Thrifty Gist

• Canada is a big place. Choose only one or a few regions for your trip to cut costs (and flights). The less you fly, the more you'll save.
• Exploration by car (combined with camping) is a cheap, scenic alternative to flying.
• Visiting regions that are rich in natural beauty (e.g. West Coast) is a great way to reduce paid activities since free ones like hikes and parks are plentiful.
• Travelling in off season such as spring or fall can reduce prices, but also means more unpredictable weather.
• Dining out is not cheap – alternating between DIY meals and making breakfast or lunch your big meals out will slash costs.

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

Apr 11, 2024 • 10 min read

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

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

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

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

Best for diversity

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

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

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

2. The Canadian Rockies 

Best for mountain views

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

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

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

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

3. Manitoulin Island

Best for Canada’s First Nations culture

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

4. Vancouver 

Best for urban life with access to nature

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

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

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

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

5. Baffin Island

Best for Inuit art and incredible landscapes

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

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

6. Vancouver Island 

Best for nature, surf beaches and boutique food ventures

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

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

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

Find out how to see Canada by train.

7. Whistler 

Best for skiing, mountain biking or summer paddle-boarding

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

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

8. Old Québec City

Best place to visit in Canada for romantics

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

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

9. Montréal

Best for music lovers 

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

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

10. Rideau Canal

Best for ice skating

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

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

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

11. The Prairies

Best for big-sky road trips

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

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

12. Niagara Falls

Best for an iconic travel experience

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

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

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

13. Bay of Fundy

Best place to spot whales

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

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

14. Churchill

Best for polar bear encounters

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

15. Drumheller

Best for dinosaur enthusiasts

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

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

This article was first published July 2021 and updated April 2024

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Canada spans six time zones, and some say that it boasts the longest street in the world. This nation gave the world Leonard Cohen, Leslie Nielsen, Mounties, Tim Hortons, Superman, zippers, the light bulb, and the snowblower. This is a place where polar bears, poutine, and epic panoramas predominate. Canada’s wilderness beckons adventure-seekers from the world over, while the country’s cultural attractions, culinary marvels, hockey rinks, and artistic landmarks thrill visitors of all stripes.

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When’s the best time to go to Canada?

The best time to visit Canada depends on what you wish to experience. The snowy months of winter allow for world-class skiing, snowshoeing, and hockey games. Summer is ripe for sunseekers to explore both the Pacific and Atlantic coasts, the lakes of Ontario, and the wild country of the North. Spring turns the West into one gigantic flowerpot, while fall transforms Eastern Canada into a kaleidoscope of colors. Keep in mind that many Canadians travel during the summer months. Also, national parks and big cities attract thousands of visitors from the United States during school holidays and long weekends, when prices can soar in destinations like Toronto, Vancouver, Jasper, Montreal, Banff, Calgary, and Halifax.

How to get around Canada

Major international airports are spread across the country from Vancouver in the west to Halifax in the east. Many international visitors choose to arrive at U.S. border cities (e.g. Seattle, WA and Buffalo, NY) and then drive across the border. This can be a cheaper way of entering Canada, but be prepared for traffic and extended waits at border checkpoints during peak travel times.

Major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, Montreal, and Halifax have excellent public transportation networks: taking the bus, riding the metro, or hailing a cab is a breeze. Smaller cities and rural towns are walkable, but you’ll need a car to get out into the countryside. Public transportation in and out of national parks is virtually nonexistent. The space between metro centers can seem daunting, so consider flying if you wish to cut down on travel times.

Food and drink to try in Canada

Canadian cuisine is as diverse as the country is expansive. On one city block—or on one menu—you may find restaurants serving Ukrainian, Chinese, Irish, German, Portuguese, Haitian, Nigerian, and Ethiopian dishes. Each province and city has its own culinary flair: you’ll find unique Western fare in Calgary and Edmonton, gastro-nouveau in Toronto and Vancouver, fine French dining in Montreal and Quebec City—and the best the ocean has to offer in Halifax, Charlottetown, and St. John.

Culture in Canada

Have you come for the great outdoors, or Winnipeg’s Folklorama? Perhaps you’re in town for Toronto’s MuslimFest, or you made the trek to quirky little Maxville, Ontario, for the Glengarry Highland Games. Massey Hall in Toronto has hosted the world’s largest musical acts for decades, while the Quebec Winter Carnival is Canada’s premiere winter event. The Edmonton International Fringe Festival, held every August, is the largest and oldest fringe fest in North America.

Canadians love to party. Canada Day (July 1) is celebrated from coast to coast, with Canadians and visitors packing public squares, stadiums, parks, and concert halls for massive festivals. The Calgary Stampede takes over Alberta’s largest city every July; Montreal’s International Jazz Festival (June 29–July 9) welcomes 2.5 million visitors each year; and Pride, Scotiabank Caribbean Carnival, The Canadian National Exhibition, and the Toronto International Film Festival bring revelry to Ontario’s capital.

Local travel tips for Canada

English is Canada’s common tongue, though French is spoken throughout Quebec and in many Atlantic cities. That said, you’ll hear nearly every other language in the big metro centers. The currency is the Canadian Dollar ($). Tipping is required (15%) in restaurants, and it is generally expected in taxis and hotels. ATMs are everywhere, and major credit cards are accepted across the country. Electricity is 110v.

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The Ultimate Travel Guide To Canada

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• Best Places to Visit
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The name “Canada” conjures many images: friendly people, unspoiled nature, ice hockey, wildlife, epic mountain road trips, the Northern Lights, freezing temperatures, diverse cultures, and maple syrup. For all these reasons (and so much more!), it has become a top travel destination. We’ve compiled the Ultimate Canada Travel Guide to assist you in planning your dream trip to this majestic nation in North America.

Disclosure: This post contains references to products or services from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you buy one of these products or services. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit this page .

Canada was founded on July 1, 1867, when the British Parliament passed the British North America Act. The name “Canada” likely originated from the indigenous Huron-Iroquois word kanata, meaning “village” or “settlement.” Since its inception, Canada has operated under a constitutional monarchy, being a commonwealth country. The Queen is the head of state, and the Prime Minister is the head of government. You’ll find the Canadian Parliament buildings in the capital, Ottawa, Ontario.

Canada is the second-largest country globally, spanning 9.985 million km², with a population of 37.59 million (2019). You can imagine that Canadian cities and towns are not very densely populated. And in fact, a majority of the Canadian population lives within 160.0 km of the Canada-US border. In 2019, 22.1 million travellers visited Canada for various adventures, and there’s no sign of that number decreasing.

Best Places to Visit in Canada

Diverse landscapes, cultures, and climates create this great nation of Canada. And because the country spans such a great landmass, the best places to visit exist all over, scattered throughout the provinces. Nature attracts a great number of tourists every year, and it’s no surprise why. Some of the best places to visit are the several National Parks that showcase the mind-blowing scenery of vivid alpine lakes with glacial backdrops. But that’s not to say there’s no value in visiting the cities—Canadian cities exhibit a charm unlike any other place, and what you’ll find on the west coast will be distinct from the east.

Rocky Mountains, British Columbia and Alberta

The Canadian Rocky Mountains are home to several National Parks, including Banff , Yoho , and Jasper , and the region sits on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tourists flock to this destination to hike the trails around Lake Louise , then snap that iconic picture in front of Moraine Lake (be sure to arrive early as the parking lot fills up quickly!). Between Banff and Jasper lies the Icefields Parkway , an otherworldly stretch of highway replete with glaciers hugging the cliffside that you’ll see right from your car window and a network of trails leading to unparalleled views. All nature-lovers should make an effort to visit the Rocky Mountains at least once in their lives.

Vancouver Island, British Columbia

This massive Vancouver Island , an hour-and-a-half ferry ride from the mainland of British Columbia, holds a certain majesty. The Queen’s moniker marks the charming capital city, temperate rainforests abound, and enchanting hiking routes wind all around the island. In the southern part of the island, Victoria boasts heritage beauty, a thriving food and arts scene, and plenty of walking and hiking trails around town. Mid-island, you’ll find surf breaks in Tofino and small artist communities on many of the archipelago, each just a short ferry ride away. The Juan de Fuca Trail and the West Coast Trail are both found on Vancouver Island—each equally mesmerising. Anyone who has been to the island will tell you: it has a certain “vibe,” commonly thought to be laidback, welcoming, and charming.

Vancouver city lights Science Center on the Pacific west coast British Columbia Canada

Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland

On the east coast, entirely different geography exists with soaring fjords, arid cliffs, and foggy beach pathways in Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this location sparks interest for hikers seeking remote adventure. There’s no shortage of sweeping views here—just don’t let the wind make you lose your footing!

Whitehorse, Yukon

The northern part of Canada piques visitors’ interest with its incredible wildlife, vast unspoiled nature, and exhilarating winter activities like snowmobiling and dog-sledding, and more chill activities like ice fishing and snowshoeing. The Yukon is an adventure playground, and it’s one of the best places to see the Northern Lights thanks to the much shorter winter days.

Canada’s official languages are English and French, and most of the French-speaking population resides in Quebec. With old-world French heritage, Quebec City attracts visitors for its walled Old Town and a rich history unlike any other city in Canada. Montreal’s cultural hotspot blends a myriad of languages, cultures, and distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own appeal and quirks. During summer, Montreal comes alive with music festivals, most notably the Montreal Jazz Festival, and year-round, foodies will never go hungry. Pop into the local hole-in-the-wall for an authentic plate of poutine. Just northwest of Montreal is Mont Tremblant, a world-class ski resort above an enchanting town.

Prince Edward Island

The smallest Canadian province should not be missed if you’re planning to head to the Maritimes, especially if biking is your sport of choice. You can ride the entire island province within a week, spotting numerous lighthouses along the way. And don’t worry about going hungry—your adventure being fuelled by the freshest seafood from the Atlantic. The adorable capital, Charlottetown, is home to about 36,000. It’s an inviting place where you’ll receive warm hospitality and an earful of lively folk music.

Vancouver + the Sunshine Coast, British Columbia

Often cited as the prettiest city in Canada, Vancouver enjoys a stunning coastline close to its urban centre and spectacular mountains as a backdrop to the downtown skyline—those mountains offer incredible hiking routes for the whole family . Not far off is the world-famous Whistler Ski Resort, seeing flocks of visitors year-round for winter sports and mountain biking. A ferry ride from the North Shore will bring you to the Sunshine Coast, which feels like it should be an island, but, in fact, is attached to the mainland. You’ll find the quaint town of Gibsons, a leisurely place to spend a few days, then head along the coast to the peaceful communities of Roberts Creek and Pender Harbour. Exploring is infinite on the west coast.

Best Things to Do in Canada

When you visit Canada, there is little chance you’ll ever be bored. This great country draws tourists from around the world for many reasons, but outdoor adventures are most common. As you may have gathered from this travel guide so far, Canada is filled to the brim with adventure opportunities. Because of its natural splendour, Canada is an outdoor playground with some world-renowned mountains, trails, and coastlines.

Stunning Moraine Lake hiking in the Rocky Mountains Alberta Canada

Hiking and Backpacking in Canada

Canada’s geography is best explored and enjoyed on foot. When you hike in any national, provincial, or municipal parks, you’ll be astounded at the thriving natural beauty. Canada boasts several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Rocky Mountain National Parks and Gros Morne National Park. And what’s so great about backpacking? Imagine spending a few days in the backcountry in a place like Jasper or Banff , with just your hiking buddies and the untouched wild scenery of enormous stretches of uninhabited land—except by wildlife, of course. Talk about an enlightening experience!

With Whistler being one of Canada’s most-visited places, it’s not surprising that this country is famous as a ski destination . The country is home to 292 ski resorts and hills, and most of the country experiences a long winter lasting 6–8 months, with the ski season usually starting in late-November and running until late-April. Earn your turns on the freshest powder in the most majestic mountains.

Whale Watching

Canada boasts three coastlines and diverse marine life to observe, including at least 30 species of whales. The Atlantic coast is rated as one of the best places in the world for whale-watching, where you can see humpback whales, orcas, and blue whales. The best time for whale-watching on the east coast is from May to September. Over on the west coast, from Tofino on Vancouver Island, you can catch the gray whale migration in March when they head north and again in October when they swim south to the Baja Peninsula. Several whale-watching charters depart from Victoria and Vancouver during summer to catch sight of the many orca pods in the area.

Mountain Biking and Cycling

When Whister is not full of skiers in the winter, it transforms into a mountain biking hotspot. Head here for gnarly lines, but for off-the-beaten-path routes, explore all over BC’s interior for some epic riding in places like Nakusp, Revelstoke, Golden, and Invermere. Road biking routes abound throughout the Rockies, as well. Pedal at your own pace to explore this phenomenal region.

Great Adventure Trips in Canada

Canada is synonymous with adventure—the country possesses infinite natural beauty, and some of the most majestic landscapes worldwide. To make your visit to Canada even greater, consider an adventure tour. Stack your itinerary with highlights you might miss if planning on your own. Explore the best parts of Canada with a local guide and make the most of your journey.

11-Day British Columbia Ski Tour

Fulfill your fresh powder dreams on this 11-day tour of four world-class ski resorts on BC’s Powder Highway. Spend each day skiing blissfully down wicked runs, and relax in hot springs and high-end hotels each night. Your equipment, transport, lessons, and accommodation are included in this total-package tour. Follow your expert guide through the Rocky Mountains and get your adrenaline pumping!

City skyline of downtown Toronto CN Tower GTA in Ontario Canada

6-Day Vancouver Island Adventure Tour

Anyone who has been to Vancouver Island will tell you it has a magical vibe, and one of the best ways to experience that is by spending time in its nature. On this tour, you’ll explore the phenomenal temperate rainforests that stretch to the rocky coastline, big sandy surf breaks in Tofino, and go on an extraordinary boat trip through the Broken Islands group—a place that looks tropical! During the tour, you’ll camp in truly stunning spots. With your experienced local guide, you’ll discover what a gem Vancouver Island really is.

12-Day Rockies Hiking and Camping Tour

For an authentic outdoor experience, this 12-day tour offers a glimpse at the magnificence of the Canadian Rockies. Visit three national parks, hike to breathtaking vistas and alpine lakes, and camp in the backcountry where you’ll feel infinitesimal under starry skies. Your kind local guides will lead you along spectacular routes and take care of all the details so you can enjoy the wilderness stress-free.

Road Bike Jasper to Banff Tour

On this 4-day tour, you will ride along one of the most scenic stretches of highway in the world, chock-full of glaciers, vivid blue alpine lakes, and jagged peaks stretching to the horizon. Ride stress-free knowing there’s a support vehicle in case of an emergency. Banff National Park is one of the most iconic natural wonders, and you’ll see it all from two wheels, enjoying the slower pace of a bike. If you’re short on time but want to pack in a lot of adventure, this is an outstanding adventure tour sure to create lifelong memories.

Yukon River Canoe Trip

This epic journey retraces the routes of gold-seekers in the Yukon. You’ll paddle for 730.0 km and spend 20 days exploring the untouched wilderness in this incredible northern territory. This tour suits beginners to experts, as long as you’re hardy enough to spend several nights camping in the remote wilderness. Stop in charming towns like Dawson City and Carmacks, and the capital, Whitehorse. The itinerary includes a few hotel nights so you can recuperate from your days on the water.

Vancouver Island Self-Guided Bike Tour

Do you want to try an adventure tour but don’t want to stick to a fixed schedule? Self-guided tours offer flexibility and support to make your trip your own. Accommodation will be confirmed for you—all you have to do is ride. For six days, you get to explore the hidden gems comprising Vancouver Island, from the adorable towns of Cumberland and Courtenay to the magical Quadra Island. Experience the Island’s natural beauty at your own pace, with routes and accommodation sorted out for you.

Canada’s Outdoors

We could have an entire article on Canada’s wilderness alone, but we’ll provide a quick overview of the natural wonders that exist in this country for the sake of brevity.

From coast to coast, Canada’s geography includes a spectrum of landscapes such as majestic mountains, rolling central plains, temperate rainforests, boreal forests, the barren Arctic, and a coastline stretching 243,042.0 km , which is the longest coastline in the world. So much of Canada is uninhabited, which means the environment thrives: the country contains 20% of the world’s freshwater and about 10% of the world’s forests. The diverse ecosystems intrigue scientists and tourists alike—there’s always another awe-inspiring view around the corner in Canada.

Beautiful sunset sunrise over the mountains in the Yukon near Whitehorse Canada

An impressive 218 species of mammals call Canada home, and many of them roam freely, especially in the National Parks. During your visit, you’ll likely encounter large mammals like black bears, moose, and coyotes. (Be bear aware while exploring!) Bird-watchers looking towards the sky will not be disappointed with some 426 bird species potentially flashing their wings. In the gorgeous oceans nearly surrounding Canada, visitors can spot any of the 30 whale species swimming by or witness a colony of sea lions hanging out on Canada’s rocky shores.

Canada Travel Costs

Canada is notoriously an expensive country to travel to, but it is possible to do it cheaply—it all depends on your travel style. Generally speaking, your Canadian travel budget will hit between $65 and $570 per day, per person. The spectrum is enormous as it reflects budget-travellers to high-end spenders. We’ll break it down so you can decide where you fit on the scale and have your dream trip to Canada without breaking the bank. (Costs will vary from province to province due to taxes and other factors, so we’ll list the average costs across Canada. Prices are listed in Canadian Dollars.)

Accommodation

Cheap: $35/night Mid-range: $100/night Luxury: $322/night

Restaurant Meal

Cheap: $10 Mid-range: $35 Luxury: $60

Domestic beer: $6 Imported beer: $7.50 Glass of wine: $8

Cheap: $14/day Mid-range: $39/day Luxury: $110/day

Daily Transportation

Cheap: $9/day Mid-range: $24/day Luxury: $69/day

Bus ticket (one-way): $3.25

Vermillion Lakes Rundle Mountain sunrise Banff Alberta Canada

Intercity Transportation

Cheap: $44 Mid-range: $118 Luxury: $332

Train ticket: $35–$150

Entertainment

Cheap: $11/day Mid-range: $28/day Luxury: $83/day

Cheap: $7/day Mid-range: $19/day Luxury: $51/day

It is customary in Canada to tip at least 15% before taxes, and more if the service was exceptional.

Canada Travel Safety

According to the Global Peace Index , Canada is one of the safest countries in the world. The excellent score demonstrates decent political stability, low crime levels, and minimal internal and external conflicts. While travelling in Canada, visitors will have great access to healthcare, if necessary. On top of all that, Canadians are notoriously friendly and polite, saying “sorry” far more often than they have to!

While crime rates are low, nature and weather systems pose a threat to visitors—it can be quite dangerous in places at certain times of the year. Severe snowstorms can hit at a moment’s notice, and forest fires have been raging for the past few summers in BC. While planning your trip, consider these weather conditions, and do your best to avoid them.

As with anywhere in the world, larger cities are not exempt from the occasional pickpocket or snatch and grab. Be alert and use common sense while exploring cities. For a sense of security, you should always travel with insurance. We have been using World Nomads for years as they provide excellent coverage for activities that some providers often omit.

Starry night and Northern Lights over rocky mountains in Jasper Alberta Canada

Best Time to Visit Canada

Canada is an enormous country, and with such a great landmass comes a spectrum of weather patterns. That said, Canada’s distinct seasons generate a travel destination worth visiting year-round. Each season has its time to shine, depending on where in the country you decide to go.

This season sees the most tourists across the board. The pleasant warm weather, long days, and blue skies make for a desirable trip. For hikers and climbers, the long, sunny days are ideal for heading into the wilderness for day-hikes , climbs, and multi-day backpacking trips in places like the Rocky Mountains (straddling Alberta and British Columbia ), the Kootenays , or Vancouver Island.

Travelling to Canada during fall has a few benefits, and the only thing you’re sacrificing is hot weather. October and November come with lower price points for accommodation, fewer tourists roam the streets and trails, and the colour of the leaves as they change will absolutely blow your mind. Hike to see the famous larch trees turning in October—you can find them scattered throughout the Rocky Mountains.

This nation’s stereotype generally depicts an ice hockey player shooting goals on a frozen lake surrounded by frosted pines. Yes, it’s cold in Canada, but only in the winter. Canadians are lucky to have ski hills and fresh powder in several provinces. If cross-country skiing , snowboarding, snowshoeing , or ice skating fall on your list of favourite winter activities, then Canada will not disappoint when you visit during the winter.

Like fall, fewer tourists hail to Canada during the spring, but there are still many reasons to consider it. As early as February on the west coast, you will see signs of spring with cherry blossoms blooming while the rest of Canada remains under the snow. For outdoor-enthusiasts, stick to the west coast during spring because the east will still be too cold for enjoyable adventures that don’t involve snow.

Best Ways to Get Around Canada

Undeniably, one of the best ways to travel around Canada is in a vehicle, whether that’s a rental car or an RV. In your own transportation, you can stop as you please at any enticing sight and explore off-the-beaten-path towns you would otherwise skip. Enterprise and Alamo are two of the top-rated car rental companies, so look for their offers when searching on rentalcars.com .

Flying between cities is an option, but, unfortunately, it’s an expensive one. Taking a plane can save several hours, even days in some cases, but the costs can add up quickly. Canada has a couple of low-cost carriers, like Flair Air and Swoop. Both offer domestic flights, but schedules and locations are limited. WestJet often has seat sales, so it’s worth doing some research—if you have to fly, consider booking in advance and building your itinerary around the cheapest flight.

For the ultimate Canadian journey, think about saving up for a train journey. VIA Rail offers incredible coast-to-coast routes, and the Rocky Mountaineer takes passengers throughout the Canadian Rockies on a luxurious glass-dome train. By rail, you’ll explore paths inaccessible by car, creating a truly unforgettable experience.

City skyline historic Quebec City across Saint Lawrence River Canada

Best Places to Stay in Canada

When you travel to Canada, you’ll be spoiled for choice in accommodation from luxury hotels to world-class campsites. Whatever your budget, you will find something that suits you.

For budget-travellers, camping during the summer reaches the top of the list, and for the rest of the year or while visiting towns and cities, you can check-in to a local hostel for a cheap bed and undoubtedly make some new like-minded pals. Hostelling International (HI), a world-renowned hostel network, runs several hostels across Canada.

Mid-range budget travellers can do some Airbnb research to find unique stays in rustic cabins or downtown lofts. And for big spenders, there’s no shortage of high-end hotels for a super comfortable stay. Also, bringing or renting your own home on four wheels is an option, and all you’ll need is a suitable place to park.

To help plan your journey to Canada, we’ve compiled some of our favourite travel tools. These useful sites bring you one step closer to your Canadian adventure.

To Book Accommodation

To find hotels and long-term accommodation, we use the following websites. Keep your eyes out for deals, and book on weeknights if you have the freedom to do so as these nights will often be cheaper: Booking.com , Hotels.com , Expedia.com , and Agoda.com . For long-term rentals or more unique listings, check with Vrbo.com for some cool accommodation finds. Budget-savvy travellers can search desired locations on the HI Canada website . And for those looking to visit Canada for its incredible nature, book your campsites in advance with Parks Canada .

To Book Flights

As mentioned, Canada covers a large surface area, so a trip to Canada may likely include a domestic flight if you plan on visiting the east and west. Check prices on Skyscanner or CheapOair for your intercity flights.

To Rent a Car

A road trip across Canada sits at the top of the bucket list for many travellers. It can be economical and give you the ultimate freedom to stop as you please. Our top choice for finding a rental is on rentalcars.com , which allows you to compare several providers and pricing options.

Niagra Falls near Ottawa Ontario Canada

To Get Gear

Travelling to Canada will most likely include activities enjoying the Great Outdoors—and you’ll want to be appropriately outfitted. For warm winter threads, some of our favourites are Arc’teryx , Patagonia , and Helly Hansen . For those needing trail running and hiking gear, check Salomon and the Running Room . And if you plan on doing some hiking and backpacking, gear up through MEC or MSR .

Other Useful Travel Services

For those seeking an RV trip across this great nation, RV Share is your one-stop-shop for rentals. And a great tool for saving on airport parking, use Airport Parking Reservations by entering your home airport and departure dates.

Depending on your citizenship and whether you’re arriving in Canada by air or by land or sea, you will require a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), which allows most visitors to stay in the country for up to 6 months. You’ll also have to meet some basic requirements such as having a valid travel document, having no criminal or immigration-related convictions, being in good health, and having enough money for your stay. This list is not exhaustive, so please check with Service Canada for visa-related information.

Travellers from the EU and the UK

Travellers coming from the European Union are eligible for an eTA if entering Canada by plane. Apply for your eTA online in advance—it currently costs $7.00. If entering by land or sea (including cruise ships), travellers from the EU do not need an eTA. Proof of return is required.

Travellers from the US

A US citizen can enter Canada with a legal travel document such as a birth certificate or US permanent resident card and photo ID. It is wise to travel with a valid passport as it is required to re-enter the US. Travellers from the US do not need an eTA, and proof of return is not required.

Peggys Cove beautiful harbour East coast village Nova Scotia Canada

Canada often goes under the radar, but this great nation has some unique and interesting claims-to-fame. These facts may make you want to hop on a plane to check out for yourself!

• Does the word “eh” sound super Canadian to you? Well, you can find this common interjection listed in the Canadian Oxford Dictionary.
• You can write a letter to Santa Claus at the address: North Pole, H0H 0H0, and receive a letter response.
• Canada has 20% of the world’s freshwater, and the country claims the title of having the most lakes.
• Snag, Yukon had the lowest temperature ever recorded in Canada at –62.8°C in February 1947. (Also, yes, there’s a town called Snag.)
• Canada has six different time zones—make sure you pay attention to this if you’re travelling across this great nation!
• Canada possesses 10% of the world’s forests.
• The weather phenomenon called Chinooks, a warm wind occurring in and around Calgary, Alberta, can raise the temperature by 10 degrees in a matter of minutes. The biggest temperature change caused by Chinooks was recorded on January 10th, 1962. During this day, the town of Pincher Creek in Alberta saw temperatures rise by 41 C, from -19 C up to 22 C.
• The Olympic Games have been hosted in Canada three times: Montreal (1976), Calgary (1988), and Vancouver (2010).
• Canada boasts 48 national parks and national park reserves and 970 national historic sites.
• Canada’s smallest province, Prince Edward Island, is only 56.0 km wide and 225.0 km long. You could bike the whole province in a week!
• And last but not least, if you want to get a hold of this great nation, you can call the official phone number: 1-800-O-Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions About Canada

After reading through this travel guide, you might have some lingering questions. Here are some frequently asked questions about travelling to Canada.

What is the cheapest way to travel across Canada?

The bus system is the cheapest way to get across Canada. If you’re backpacking and on a tight budget, keep an eye on websites like Couchsurfing for possible rideshares between cities.

Where should I go in Canada for the first time?

Where you should go first depends on the reason for your trip. Winter activities, hiking, or camping? Head to the Rocky Mountains in Alberta and British Columbia. Want to explore the big cities during the summer? Toronto, the Maritimes, and the West Coast will be great starting points for your adventures in Canada.

How much does the average meal cost in Canada?

Eating out at a restaurant in Canada will cost anywhere between $7 and $50.

How much does a train ticket cost in Canada?

Between cities, you’re looking at spending anywhere from $35 to $150. For the iconic cross-Canada train trip, a VIA Rail ticket will cost between $500 and $2,300 one way, depending on the class and time of the year (it’s more expensive in July and August).

What is the best train trip in Canada?

The ultimate train trip is aptly named “ The Canadian ,” spanning Canada from Toronto to Vancouver. For four days, the train winds through majestic scenery, including Ontario’s lakes, across the vast prairies, and into the Rocky Mountains. Coming in a close second, the Rocky Mountaineer offers three world-class routes beginning in Vancouver and ending in either Banff or Jasper. This luxury train has glass-domed train cars, providing passengers with panoramic views.

Bonne Bay Gros Morne National Park East Coast Atlantic Newfoundland Canada

How much is a cup of coffee in Canada?

The cost of a cup of coffee varies greatly by city from $3.07 in Ottawa to $4.49 in Calgary, Vancouver landing in between at $3.89.

Which Canadian city is most beautiful?

Now, this one is hard to answer since it’s so subjective, and Canadians across the country may not agree on one particular place. A couple of cities usually top the list across the board: Victoria and Quebec City. Both are smaller in population, have heritage beauty, and are undeniably charming.

What is the coldest month in Canada?

January and February are the coldest months in Canada.

Is Canada cheaper than the USA?

To travel, unfortunately, no—not with the current exchange rate. Canada also imposes more taxes on goods, especially food and alcohol, so the average costs are marginally higher in Canada.

What is the most-visited place in Canada?

Canada contains infinite intriguing sites, but a few top the list of the most-visited. Toronto is the most-visited city, with Vancouver and Montreal in a close second and third. Niagara Falls, Ontario, draws an enormous crowd each year to view the immense waterfalls straddling the Canada-US border. Skiers and mountain bikers hail to Whistler, BC, from all across the globe to visit the world-class ski resort. Hikers tend to head to Banff National Park, especially Moraine Lake (which you may recognize from your computer desktop).

Is it easy to travel to Canada?

Whether you’re renting a car, transiting by bus, riding the train, or flying between airports, Canada’s infrastructure is well set-up for tourism. The Trans-Canada Highway stretches from coast to coast, making for a simple and beautiful road trip throughout the country. Railway tracks also run from coast to coast—and you’ll ride through landscapes you wouldn’t see from a car or a bus.

For more great Canadian content with amazing travel tips, check out our trip guides and other stories!

• A Guide to Planning a Ski Trip in the Canadian Rockies
• Planning your Trip to Banff
• The Ultimate Guide to Kootenay National Park
• Winter Weekend in Whistler, BC
• 17 Amazing Winter Hikes in Alberta
• An Ultimate Trip Planner to Squamish, British Columbia
• Best Kayaking Adventures in Vancouver and Vancouver Island
• Canada’s Great Divide Trail – A Full Guide and Itinerary

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Canada Travel Guide

Looking for an in-depth Canada travel guide ?

Then you’re in the right place!

As North America’s northernmost country, Canada usually falls behind its neighbors to the south, the United States and Mexico in the rankings of top travel destinations.

There is so much more to this huge and diverse country than snow, maple syrup, and nice residents — although folks are actually very nice!

From glaciers to waterfalls to world-class cities, Canada has something for every kind of traveler. With so many options, you should definitely add some Canadian travel to your bucket list.

Canada’s national parks are some of the most beautiful in the world and preserve Canada’s diverse environment for all to enjoy.

For instance, Gros Morne National Park is the gem of Newfoundland. Located on the island’s west coast, the park features a cliff-lined freshwater fjord, gorgeous wildflower-covered mountains, and colorful fishing villages. With tons of trails open year-round, it’s a paradise for hikers in the summer and cross-country skiers in the winter.

Canada is also home to one of the largest national parks in the world, Wood Buffalo National Park. Stretching from Alberta into the Northwest Territories, the park is the perfect place to peep some of Canada’s most iconic animals like moose, eagles, and bears.

And you can’t miss the Canadian Rockies on display at the famous Banff National Park! Read on to learn more about this top park.

Major cities like Toronto, Vancouver , and Montreal are considered some of the top places to visit in Canada for their diverse cultures and amazing attractions. But if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and save a little cash, consider visiting some of the country’s smaller cities.

Quebec City on Canada’s east coast was founded in 1604 and offers a beautiful peek into French Canadian culture. From quaint streets lined with gorgeous little shops to historic buildings like Chateau Frontenac to museums celebrating the art and culture of Quebec, there’s something for everyone here.

And for nature lovers, Jacques-Cartier National Park is just a short drive away for your hiking and snowshoeing pleasure. It’s also a great place to start a French Canadian road trip along the St. Lawrence River.

Keep reading to dive into resources that will help you with planning a trip to Canada in North America .

Note: This ultimate Canada guide contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Use this Canada tourism map to begin planning your trip to this incredible country!

Click here for an interactive Google Map version of the above graphic.

Alberta Travel Guide

These Alberta tourism guides can help you plan the Canada travel itinerary!

10 Offbeat Reasons Why Edmonton Should Be Your Next Trip

14 Amazing Hotels In Banff With Private Hot Tubs

British Columbia Travel Guide

These British Columbia tourism guides can help you plan the perfect Canada trip!

10 Unique Experiences In Victoria BC (Beyond Butchart Gardens)

Organic Caviar Tasting On British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast

7 Can’t Miss Outdoor Experiences In Whistler

Traveler’s Guide To Vancouver On A Budget

Quirky Vancouver: A Visit To Granville Island

Canada’s National Gingerbread Competition Brings Sweet Offerings To British Columbia

Ontario Travel Guide

Plan an unforgettable trip to Ontario with the help of the following guides!

12 Best Places To Hike Near Toronto For Amazing Scenery

Quebec Travel Guide

These Quebec tourism guides can help you plan the perfect trip to Canada!

Tips For Exploring Montreal On A Budget

Solo Travel, Local Culture & Unique Things To Do In Montreal

Traveler’s Guide To Montreal

Best Canada Tours

Explore local culture with a Canada tour guide through these unique excursions:

• North Shore Day Trip from Vancouver: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Grouse Mountain from Vancouver
• Fundy Coast to Fundy Shore Tour from Saint John in New Brunswick
• Northern Lights and Huskies from Whitehorse
• Valley Wine Tour from Halifax, Nova Scotia
• Tundra Buggy Autumn Day Tours with Polar Bear viewing from Churchill
• Niagara Falls in One Day: Deluxe Sightseeing Tour of American and Canadian Sides from Ontario
• Mountain Lakes and Waterfalls Day Trip from Banff
• Victoria Whale Watch Tour with Views of Vancouver Island from Victoria

Renting A Car In Canada

Need a rental car for your Canada trip?

Use Discover Cars to quickly compare your car rental options.

Public Transportation In Canada

Getting around Canada by train, bus, or ferry?

Omio is a must! You can use this tool for all of your public transportation needs when traveling around Canada.

The site is straightforward and user-friendly — and you can pre-book your tickets in advance at a discount.

They even offer flight and car deals!

Canada Hotels

Click here to browse the best Canada travel hotels!

Prefer self-contained stays?

Click here to check out unique local rentals!

You can also use this map to search for local stays:

Canada Travel Insurance

It doesn’t matter if you’re traveling solo or with a group on a Canada tour. When visiting Canada — or any other country in the world — make sure to get travel insurance to protect your health and safety.

In my opinion, the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

With coverage, you’ll have peace of mind as you embark on your Canada travel itinerary.

Click my referral link here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

Canada Travel Guide FAQ

Below, find answers to frequently asked questions about traveling in Canada .

Q: What is the best month to travel to Canada?

Canada is a huge country with a wide range of climates, so the weather will not necessarily be the same everywhere you go.

That said, fall is considered one of the best times to visit Canada. While temperatures are cooler than they are in the summer, it’s still quite comfortable across the board. The fall foliage also makes for some incredible views.

Summer is considered Canada’s peak season as the weather is much warmer; temperatures range between 77 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

Canada’s winters make it a top destination for winter sports but they are not for the faint of heart. Temperatures can drop to 0 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter months.

Q: What is the cheapest way to travel across Canada?

The cheapest way to travel across Canada is probably by car. Car rentals are fairly affordable and having your own set of wheels will give you the flexibility to travel wherever you want. Plus, you can use DiscoverCars to easily compare rental prices and save up to 70%.

Buses are an easy and inexpensive way to get around Eastern Canada but sadly there is no one nationwide bus system.

VIA Rail, Canada’s train system, offers scenic coast-to-coast service but fares can get pricey. However, if you plan to travel, head to Omio to find and book tickets to destinations all across Canada.

Q: Is Canada expensive to travel?

How much does a Canada trip cost? That depends on your destination.

You’ll generally spend more on food, accommodations, transportation, and other travel expenses in big cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.

Smaller cities like Quebec City and more rural destinations are usually a bit more budget-friendly.

The average traveler spends about $145 USD per day in Canada.

Q: What are the best things to do in Canada?

Canada’s most popular attractions are definitely its natural wonders.

Niagara Falls, which sits on the border of New York and Ontario, brings in millions of visitors every year who come to marvel at one of the largest waterfalls in the world. You can take a ferry and get drenched by the mist coming off the falls or climb down to explore the caves behind the water.

There are also plenty of attractions to experience on the Canadian side of the falls, like butterfly conservatories, the 235 meter-tall Skylon Tower, and the gorgeous 1800s-style village of Niagra-on-the-Lake in Niagara County .

On the western side of the country, the Canadian Rockies draw in tons of hikers and climbers.

The breathtaking snow-capped mountains and gorgeous turquoise lakes of the Rockies are on display at Banff National Park in Alberta. The 2,564 square mile park has so much to explore at any time of year. It’s also a top destination for winter sports and is home to some of the country’s top ski resorts. Plus, there are a number of epic hotels in Banff with private hot tubs .

If you’re looking for a city getaway, Toronto has plenty to explore. Check out views that extend into New York state (on clear days, of course) at the CN Tower, a 553-meter 360 degree observation tower in the city center. You can also find some amazing hiking trails near Toronto .

Browse the collection at the Art Gallery of Ontario, one of the largest art museums in North America.

And you can’t leave without seeing a show in the Entertainment District, home to theatrical productions that rival those on Broadway and London’s West End! It’s truly a top North America tourism experience!

Q: How many days do you need for Canada?

Since Canada is such a huge country, you’ll need a bit more time to get the full Canadian experience.

You can do a decent cross-country road trip with stops in cities like Toronto, Calgary, and Vancouver in two weeks. If you want a shorter, more in-depth tour, stick to one area of the country, like Quebec and Ontario in the east or Alberta and British Columbia in the west.

Either way, you’ll want to factor travel times into your itinerary, especially if you’re driving between destinations.

Q: Is Canada safe to travel?

In general, Canada is very safe to visit and crime rates are low — though, of course, it is always smart to pack travel safety gear and to understand how to avoid pickpockets , especially in touristy areas.

If you’re exploring the outdoors, make sure to research local wildlife and how to stay safe in the wilderness. Canada is home to a number of animals — like the Grizzly Bear and Prairie Rattlesnake — that are amazing creatures but that are not friendly to humans.

Q: How long can a tourist stay in Canada?

Most visitors from abroad can stay in Canada for up to six months.

Q: Do I need a Canada travel visa?

While it varies by country, travelers from the United States, the EU, Australia, and several other countries do not need a visa to visit Canada for a period of fewer than 180 days.

It’s recommended to view your country’s Canada International Travel Information page for the most up-to-date information on entry and exit requirements. You can also contact the Embassy of Canada.

Q: Where is Canada?

Canada is the northernmost country in North America.

It is bordered by the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic Oceans, as well as the United States in the south.

It is the second-largest country in the world by total area.

Q: Are credit cards accepted in Canada?

Credit cards — particularly Visa and Mastercard — are widely accepted around Canada, though it is always wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and in case of emergency.

Q: Can you drink the tap water in Canada?

While tap water is safe to drink in most places in Canada, it’s smart to check with the hotel in your specific destination to be safe.

Q: What is the local currency in Canada?

The local currency in Canada is the Canadian dollar (CAD).

What would you add to this Canada travel guide?

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Introducing Canada

About canada.

• Images of Canada
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Canada
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
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Book your flights

• British Columbia
• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland And Labrador
• Northwest Territories
• Nova Scotia
• Prince Edward Island
• Saskatchewan
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• Quebec City
• Calgary International Airport
• Halifax Stanfield International Airport
• Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport
• Ottawa International Airport
• Toronto Pearson International Airport
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Ski Resorts

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Canada travel guide

Whether you’re a hardcore adrenaline junkie, a wildlife enthusiast or a city slicker looking for cutting-edge culture, Canada ticks all the boxes. The world’s second-largest country (by total area) racks up an astonishing diversity of landscapes; the vast Canadian Prairies rise abruptly to the glacier-topped Rocky Mountains; rugged, unspoiled coastlines give way to immense forests and emerald lakes; and Arctic waters lap upon frozen tundra. Incredibly, this wilderness is also home to cosmopolitan cities, quirky towns and remote indigenous settlements.

Canada’s people are as varied as the landscapes; from the Arctic Indigenous peoples and the Francophone Quebeckers to the British expatriates and burgeoning Asian community, this is a multicultural land where around 22% of the population are foreign-born.

Canadian cities are progressive, vibrant and regularly feature on lists of "best places to live". Toronto, a veritable patchwork of charming neighbourhoods, has an idyllic beachside location on the shore of Lake Ontario, while Canada’s capital city, Ottawa, contains a clutch of fantastic museums and the gorgeous Rideau Canal for ice skating in winter. Montreal’s skyscrapers belie its French heritage, but look closer and you can stumble upon historic, cobbled streets and centuries-old customs.

A stone’s throw from the Canadian Rockies, booming Calgary flaunts its cowboy traditions during the annual boot-stomping Stampede. Chilled-out Vancouver, meanwhile, seems to have it all: mountains, beaches, an incredible downtown park and a cosmopolitan dining scene. And across the Georgia Strait, Vancouver Island offers a wide variety of things to see and do including marine and land activities and festivals.

For something wilder, ski steep chutes in British Columbia, kayak secluded bays with whales in Nova Scotia or learn to lasso at an Albertan ranch. Capture grizzlies on camera in the Yukon, watch mammoth icebergs drift past the Newfoundland coast, or soar over Niagara Falls by helicopter. Tour vineyards, dig for clams or feel giddy gazing at the Northern Lights. In Canada, the options are endless.

9,984,670 sq km (3,855,100 sq miles).

37,602,103 (estimate Q2 2019).

3.92 per sq km.

Federal parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy.

HM King Charles III since 2022, represented by Governor General Mary Simon since 2021.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau since 2015.

Travel Advice

Before you travel.

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide and any specific travel advice that applies to you:  

• women travellers
• disabled travellers
• LGBT+ travellers
• solo and independent travel
• volunteering and adventure travel

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and  get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out  more about  FCDO  travel advice .

Follow and contact  FCDO  travel on  Twitter ,  Facebook  and  Instagram . You can also sign up to  get email notifications  when this advice is updated.

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in Canada set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Canadian High Commission in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Canada.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Canada, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay.

If you’re travelling through another country on your way to or from Canada, check the entry requirements for that country. Many countries will only allow entry if you have at least 6 months validity remaining on your passport. 

Visa requirements

To enter or transit through Canada, most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization ( eTA ) – not both.

Check if you need a visa or an eTA online .

You do not need a visa for short visits (normally up to 6 months). You may need an eTA instead.

You do not need an eTA , if you are:

• arriving by land and sea – you must have acceptable travel documents and ID
• a British-Canadian dual national – you must have a valid Canadian passport

See Canada’s entry requirements for full details of eTA and visa requirements.

Contact the Canadian High Commission in the UK if you are unsure about visa requirements or your eligibility to enter the country, for example, if you have a criminal record or have been arrested.

Checks at border control

Canadian border officials may ask you to show a return or onward ticket and proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay, even if you are staying with family or friends.

Visas for permanent residence, study or work

See information on visas for permanent residence, study or work in Canada .  

Transiting through Canada

If you are travelling through Canada (transiting) by air, you must have an eTA or a transit visa.     

If you have questions, contact:

• your airline
• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
• your nearest Canadian high commission, embassy or consulate

Find out more about transiting Canada .

Visa and eTA scams

Some unauthorised websites charge for submitting visa applications. These websites are not associated with the Canadian government.

You can check your eTA status online with the Canadian government . If it has been 72 hours since you applied, and you have not received confirmation of your application, complete an enquiry form .   

Travelling with children

If a child travels alone or with only one parent or legal guardian, they should carry a letter of consent from the non-travelling parents or guardians. Immigration officers have the right to question children using simple and appropriate language to see if there are any concerns about child abduction.

For more information, check with the Canadian High Commission in the UK or the Canada Border Services Agency .

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Canada guide . 

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be taken into and out of Canada . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

The Canadian authorities will confiscate banned food products and you could get a fine. For more information, see importing food, plants or animals to Canada .

If you visit a farm or have contact with wild animals before entering Canada, and plan to visit a farm during your stay, you must declare this on your Customs Declaration Card. For more information, see biosecurity at the Canadian border .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. 

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Canada

Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Canada. 

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. You should remain aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Recent attacks include:

• in 2023, one person stabbed and injured in Surrey, British Columbia
• in 2021, 4 people killed and one injured by a vehicle in London, Ontario
• in 2020, one person killed with a hammer in Scarborough, Ontario
• in 2020, one person killed and 2 wounded in a machete attack in Toronto, Ontario

See the Canadian government’s national terrorism threat level .

Take precautions to protect yourself from petty crime, including:

• not leaving your bag or luggage unattended
• keeping luggage out of sight in cars
• keeping valuables and passport in a safe location
• leaving copies of important documents with family and friends in the UK
• carrying a copy of your passport for ID

Laws and cultural differences

Recreational cannabis is legally available in Canada. Laws vary depending on the province or territory you are visiting . It is illegal to take cannabis across the Canadian border without a permit or exemption authorised by Health Canada. Those who attempt to take cannabis out of Canada without the relevant permit face arrest.

See the Canadian Border Services Agency website for more information.

If you are hiking or camping, be considerate and cautious of local wildlife. You should:

• take all rubbish with you including food items to avoid attracting animals to your site
• be careful around animals with nearby young or nests – they may be aggressive when protecting their territory
• research the region to learn about the local wildlife
• take particular care if you’re in an area where bears have been sighted
• keep a safe distance from any wildlife including marine animals and birds
• follow park regulations

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism   

See advice on visitor safety when planning outdoor activities and adventure tourism in Canada, and on preparing for winter sports abroad .

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Canada, see information on driving abroad .

See driving in Canada for information on traffic and safety laws. Laws vary between provinces and territories, including:

• whether you are allowed to turn right on a red light
• driving licence requirements – you may need to get an international driving permit ( IDP )

Take extra care when travelling on country roads and watch out for wild animals. For more information on road conditions and road safety, see Transport Canada , the Canadian Automobile Association and Travel Canada .

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age and holding an IDP . 

Driving in winter

In winter, highways are often closed because of snowstorms and avalanches in Alberta, British Columbia and other provinces. Check local weather conditions on The Weather Network .

Driving conditions can be dangerous, even when roads remain open during a winter storm. Take care, follow local restrictions or guidelines and make sure your vehicle has snow tyres and emergency supplies. See winter driving advice , including vehicle preparation and using winter tyres.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards . 

From July to November, hurricanes can affect coastal areas. Check the  US National Hurricane Center , Environment Canada  and  The Weather Network  websites for the latest weather conditions.

Avalanches can happen in mountainous regions, including Alberta and British Columbia. Always follow avalanche advice and stay away from closed trails. Follow the directions of local guides or instructors. For more information and avalanche news, see the Canadian Avalanche Foundation website. 

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Familiarise yourself with safety procedures in the event of an earthquake or tsunami. The Canadian government has information about emergency preparedness .

Thunderstorms

Summer thunderstorms are frequent in most parts of Canada, particularly between April and September. They can damage property and threaten lives.

Winter storms

Winter storms, including freezing rain, blizzards and hail, are frequent in many parts of Canada, particularly from November to April. They can make driving conditions dangerous, damage property and threaten lives. Follow local warnings or news for details.

Tornadoes can happen anywhere in Canada from May to September, but June to July is the peak season in:

• southern Ontario
• south-eastern Quebec
• southern Saskatchewan and Manitoba through to Thunder Bay
• the interior of British Columbia and western New Brunswick

Follow instructions from Canadian officials or law enforcement. Check the  US National Hurricane Center  for weather updates.

Forest fires

Forest fires can start at any time, whatever the season. There is greater risk of fire in the grasslands and forests of western Canada. In summer 2023 there were significant fires in eastern Canada, including parts of Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia. Follow local warnings or news for details on the latest outbreaks.

The Canadian Wildland Fire Information System shows active wildfires and forecasts .

Arctic travel

Parts of Canada are in the Arctic Circle, including some very remote areas of land and sea. Emergency medical assistance and search and rescue are limited in these areas. See  Arctic travel safety advice .

Before you travel, check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have  appropriate travel insurance  for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 911 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks 

At least 8 weeks before your trip:  

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Canada
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Canada .

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Canada, including skiing and hiking destinations in the Canadian Rockies such as Banff and Lake Louise. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro . 

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

TravelHealthPro explains  best practice when travelling with medicines .

The NHS has information on  whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Healthcare in Canada

Medical treatment can be very expensive. There are no special arrangements for British visitors. 

For emergency healthcare, go to a hospital emergency room or a walk-in clinic.

If you have dual British-Canadian citizenship, you may still have to pay for medical treatment if you do not meet provincial residency requirements for healthcare. Check with the relevant province or territory health ministry for more information.

COVID-19 healthcare in Canada

Public Health Canada has COVID-19 updates and guidance. These Twitter accounts are also official sources of information and guidance:

• @GovCanHealth
• @CPHO_Canada

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also  guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Canada

Telephone: 911 (ambulance, fire, police)

Coastguard maritime emergencies

Telephone: 1 800 463 4393

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about  changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from  FCDO

FCDO  has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding  lawyers  and  translators and interpreters  in Canada
• dealing with a  death in Canada
• being  arrested in Canada
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you are  affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting  FCDO

Follow and contact  FCDO  travel on  Twitter ,  Facebook  and  Instagram . You can also sign up to  get email notifications  when this travel advice is updated.

You can also  contact  FCDO  online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you’re in Canada and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British High Commission in Ottawa or your nearest consulate .

FCDO  in London

You can call  FCDO  in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Canada on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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Canada Travel Guide

When travelling in Canada, you can expect spectacular scenery, unique cultural experiences, and friendly locals. You might also be surprised by some things, from the weather to tipping practices. To make the most of your trip and avoid any disappointments, it’s best to be prepared!  

Our local Canadian travel experts receive many inquiries from tourists visiting here for the first time. At Canadian Train Vacations , we specialized in creating unforgettable vacations personalized to your needs and interests.   

We’ve compiled the answers to some of the most-frequently-asked questions for our special Canada travel guide: everything from top destinations, weather, time zones and geography — think big! — to Canada’s currency and tipping practices. 

Keep reading our guide to travel in Canada for our top travel tips and advice.

Canadian Travel Requirements

Travelers to Canada must have a valid passport. The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the intended date of departure.

Visa-Exempt vs. Visa-Required Countries for Canada

Canada maintains a list of visa-exempt and visa-required countries( 1 ). This list is subject to change, and you should check the official website of the Government of Canada for the most up-to-date information. U.S citizens only require a valid passport.  

• Visitors from visa-exempt countries do require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). This includes citizens of the U.K., most European countries, Mexico, Australia, and Japan. 
• Visa-required travellers should apply for a Temporary Resident Visa. This includes citizens of China, India, and Pakistan. A full list can be found here.  

It's a great time to explore Canada. As of October 1, 2022, the Government of Canada removed of all COVID-19 entry restrictions, as well as testing, quarantine, and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada. Any updated details can be found on the Canadian government’s website here. You can also learn how we work with our partners to keep you safe while you’re on your trip on our Safe Travels page .

Download our Brochures and Mini Guides

Top destinations in canada.

Once you cross the Canadian border there are 3.855 million square miles to explore. There’s the wild rainforests of the Pacific Northwest, the dramatic rugged peaks of the Rockies, the hypnotic expanse of the prairies; and the jagged coastline of the Atlantic — and countless landscapes in between. Discover a diversity of experiences, including scenic train rides through spectacular landscapes, exploring national parks, observing wildlife in its natural habitat, road trips through charming coastal areas, and sophisticated urban weekends.  

Your vacation advisor at Canadian Train Vacations can help you plan a trip to see many of these scenic locations.

1. Banff National Park, Alberta

• Key Features : Banff National Park, located in the Canadian Rockies , is renowned for its majestic mountain landscapes, pristine glacial lakes, and abundant wildlife. As Canada's first national park, it showcases a blend of stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history. 
• Attractions : The park is home to iconic attractions such as Lake Louise, famous for its vivid turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop, and Moraine Lake, with its exquisite Valley of the Ten Peaks. The charming town of Banff offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural experiences. The Columbia Icefield, the largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies, provides opportunities for glacier exploration. For history buffs, the Cave and Basin National Historic Site tells the story of the park's creation. 
• Activities : Outdoor enthusiasts can partake in hiking, with trails for all skill levels, from leisurely walks to challenging alpine routes. The park also offers opportunities for biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing, with chances to spot grizzly bears, elk, and more. In the winter, Banff transforms into a world-class destination for skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Lake Louise and Sunshine Village.

[ Read: Best time to visit Banff ]

2. jasper national park, alberta.

• Key Features : Jasper National Park is part of the Canadian Rockies and stands out as one of the most pristine and unspoiled natural environments in the world. It offers a breathtaking mountain landscape, glacier-fed lakes, abundant wildlife, and clear night skies ideal for stargazing. 
• Attractions : The park's notable attractions include the stunning Maligne Lake with its famous Spirit Island, the iconic Athabasca Glacier, the powerful Athabasca Falls, and the scenic Icefields Parkway, often considered one of the most beautiful drives globally. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot elk, bighorn sheep, and bears, while photographers appreciate the rugged mountain peaks and turquoise lakes. 
• Activities : Jasper National Park caters to outdoor adventurers, with opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and rock climbing. During the winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland with world-class skiing and snowshoeing. Staying in one of the park's campgrounds offers an authentic camping experience amidst the Rockies.

[ Read: Best time to visit Jasper National Park ]

3. vancouver, british columbia.

• Key Features : Vancouver is a vibrant coastal city on the Pacific Ocean, nestled between the mountains and the sea. It boasts a moderate climate, stunning natural beauty, and a diverse cultural scene. 
• Attractions : Vancouver offers an array of attractions, including Stanley Park, one of the world's most famous urban parks, Granville Island with its bustling public market, and the historic Gastown district with its iconic steam clock. The city is also known for its beautiful beaches, such as English Bay and Kitsilano Beach, and the stunning Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. 
• Activities : Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like biking around the Seawall, hiking in the nearby North Shore Mountains, or exploring the Pacific Spirit Regional Park. The city is a food lover's paradise, with an eclectic culinary scene and fresh seafood. Don't miss the opportunity to take a day trip to Vancouver Island or the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway, leading to the picturesque town of Whistler.

[ Explore: Vancouver to Toronto Train Trip ]

4. vancouver island, british columbia.

• Key features :  Vancouver Island is conveniently accessible from Vancouver, British Columbia, with frequent ferry services connecting the city to the island. The journey is not only a transportation experience but also a scenic delight, offering views of the Pacific Ocean and coastal landscapes. Vancouver Island is a beloved summer getaway for both locals and visitors from around the world. Its moderate climate, lush landscapes, and coastal beauty make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, beach lovers, and those seeking relaxation in a picturesque setting. 
• Attractions : The capital city, Victoria, showcases historic architecture, beautiful gardens, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Tofino, a fun-loving hippie town on the island, is well-known for its surfing community and pristine beaches.  
• Activities : The island is famous for its delicious seafood, with a thriving culinary scene that highlights fresh catches from the surrounding waters. Visitors can indulge in seafood feasts at charming coastal restaurants. Vancouver Island offers an array of hiking trails, from easy strolls to challenging hikes, with some of the most scenic routes located in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Whale watching is a popular activity, with opportunities to spot orcas, humpback whales, and gray whales. The West Coast Trail is a renowned hiking route, offering challenging yet incredible opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the island's wild and rugged landscapes. 

5. Pacific Coast, British Columbia

• Key Features : The Pacific Coast of British Columbia — the West Coast — stretches 25,000 kilometers. It's characterized by its rugged, untamed beauty, pristine waters, and lush rainforests, with the Pacific Ocean on one side and the Coast Mountains on the other. 
• Attractions : The region is home to a plethora of natural attractions, including the Great Bear Rainforest, one of the planet's largest temperate rainforests, and Haida Gwaii, an archipelago with rich Indigenous culture and art. The coastline is dotted with charming coastal communities and fishing villages, each offering its unique charm. The Pacific Coast is also known for its abundant marine life, with opportunities for whale watching, bird watching, and even the chance to spot the elusive white Kermode bear, or "spirit bear." 
• Activities : Adventurers can explore the region's diverse landscapes through activities like kayaking in the Inside Passage, surfing off Tofino's beaches, or hiking along the rugged West Coast Trail. The area also provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife photography. The Pacific Coast is an ideal destination for nature lovers and those who seek a deeper connection with the natural world.

6. Quebec City, Quebec

• Key Features : Quebec City, the capital of the Canadian province of Quebec, is renowned for its old-world charm and rich French heritage. Its historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is surrounded by stone walls and overlooks the mighty St. Lawrence River. 
• Attractions : The Old Town of Quebec City is a treasure trove of cobblestone streets, 17th-century architecture, and inviting bistros. The iconic Château Frontenac, a grand hotel perched atop the city, is a must-see landmark. The Plains of Abraham, a historic battlefield, provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and festivals. Explore Place Royale, Montmorency Falls, and the Petit-Champlain District, all offering a glimpse into the city's storied past. 
• Activities : Quebec City is known for its vibrant cultural scene, including festivals such as the Winter Carnival, the Summer Festival, and the New France Festival. Delight in French cuisine, savoring local specialties like poutine, tourtière, and croissants. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the city's fortifications or take a scenic ferry ride across the St. Lawrence River. Winters offer opportunities for snow sports, and a visit to the Ice Hotel (Hôtel de Glace) is a unique and unforgettable experience. 

[ Read: Best Things to do in Quebec ]

7. montreal, quebec.

• Key Features : Montreal is a vibrant and culturally rich city, often referred to as the "Paris of North America." It is the largest city in Quebec and a melting pot of diverse cultures, languages, and artistic expressions. 
• Attractions : The Old Montreal district, with its cobbled streets, historic architecture, and charming boutiques, offers a European ambiance. The city's iconic Notre-Dame Basilica is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. The Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Montreal Botanical Garden, and the Montreal Science Centre are just a few of the many cultural attractions. Don't miss the bustling Jean-Talon Market for a taste of local cuisine and fresh produce. 
• Activities : Montreal is renowned for its festivals, including the Montreal International Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, and Montreal World Film Festival. Explore Mount Royal Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, for scenic views and outdoor activities. The city is famous for its cuisine, with an emphasis on French-inspired dishes, poutine, and bagels. In winter, enjoy activities like ice skating at Parc Lafontaine or skiing in the nearby Laurentian Mountains.

8. Halifax, Nova Scotia

• Key Features : Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, is a coastal city with a rich maritime history. It's known for its picturesque waterfront, vibrant arts and culture scene, and welcoming atmosphere. 
• Attractions : The Halifax waterfront is a central hub with its boardwalk, historic sites, shops, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the historic Citadel Hill, a National Historic Site, to learn about Halifax's military past. The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 provides insights into the country's immigration history. Nature enthusiasts can visit Point Pleasant Park or embark on a boat tour of the picturesque harbor. 
• Activities : Halifax is a city of festivals and events, hosting various cultural celebrations and music festivals throughout the year. Seafood lovers will delight in the city's culinary scene, known for its fresh lobster and seafood. For a day trip, visit Peggy's Cove, famous for its iconic lighthouse and rugged coastal beauty. The Annapolis Valley, with its wineries and orchards, is within driving distance and offers scenic landscapes.

[Read: Best time to visit Nova Scotia ]

9. churchill, manitoba.

• Key Features : Located on the edge of the Arctic, Churchill, Manitoba, is often referred to as the "Polar Bear Capital of the World." This remote town is known for its unique position, where the subarctic tundra meets the Hudson Bay, providing incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. 
• Attractions : The most prominent attraction in Churchill is the opportunity to witness polar bears in their natural habitat. The annual polar bear migration, from July to November, is a spectacular event, and there are various tours and observation platforms for visitors to safely view these magnificent creatures. Additionally, Churchill is a prime location for Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) viewing, and the Churchill Northern Studies Centre provides educational insights into the Arctic. 
• Activities : Visitors can enjoy wildlife tours that also offer encounters with beluga whales during the summer months. Churchill is rich in indigenous culture and history, providing opportunities to learn about the traditions of the local Inuit and First Nations communities. Outdoor activities such as dog sledding and snowshoeing are available during the winter months, and the town's remote location makes it a fascinating destination for adventure seekers.

Canada’s largest municipalities are Toronto, in the province of Ontario; Montréal, in the province of Québec; and Vancouver, in the province of British Columbia. Extend your trip by spending a few days exploring these urban centres. 

• Discover why Vancouver is considered one of the world’s top culinary destinations. 
• Walk through the different neighbourhoods of Toronto — known locally as The 6ix— which is celebrated for its diversity and rich cultural experiences. 
• Or immerse yourself in the European sophistication of Old Montreal( 2 ). 

Weather in Canada

A common misconception is that Canada is the “Great White North.” Much of Canada’s weather is comparable to the U.S., with temperatures varying as you travel between seasons and across diverse regions. Bringing a selection of easily layered clothes and comfortable footwear will prepare you for all types of weather and temperature ranges.

#1 Travel Tip: Pack for the weather

If you’re travelling to Canada in winter, you’ll need to be prepared for the weather. Bring layers, including a warm coat, insulated boots, a hat that covers your ears, and gloves.

Climate and Seasons

The country experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.  

• Spring (March to May) : Spring varies by region. In the west, temperatures start to warm up, while in the east, it can still be quite chilly with the possibility of late snowfall. 
• Summer (June to August) : Summers are generally warm and pleasant. Coastal areas experience milder temperatures, while the interior can become quite hot.  
• Autumn (September to November) : Fall foliage is stunning, with vibrant colors. It starts to cool down, and the weather becomes more unpredictable. In some areas, snow can start to fall in late autumn. 
• Winter (December to February) : Winters in Canada can make for cold temperatures, often dropping well below freezing. Snowfall is common, and ice can be a hazard. Proper clothing and preparation are essential. 

Extreme weather conditions can be found in different regions —especially in Northern areas in the winter, with snowfall and ice storms. Coastal areas in Atlantic Canada (Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and PEI) can be susceptible to hurricanes, with peak months being September and October. These storms can bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges, impacting travel. Visitors planning to travel to coastal areas during this period should stay updated on weather forecasts and be prepared for potential disruptions. Cancellation insurance is highly recommended.

Best time to travel in Canada

Summer and fall are the best times to explore Canada’s natural beauty, cultural festivals, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're after warm weather and outdoor activities or the picturesque landscapes of autumn, these seasons have much to offer for travelers.  

That said, the ideal time for your trip largely depends on your preferences and the experiences you seek. Many visitors love exploring Canada in winter for its snowy landscapes and winter sports.

Winter Travel 

While it can get cold, Canada's cold winters offer a host of unique outdoor activities, such as: 

• Skiing and Snowboarding : Popular destinations include Whistler in British Columbia, Banff and Jasper in Alberta, and Mont Tremblant in Quebec. 
• Ice Skating : Many cities have outdoor rinks, with Ottawa's Rideau Canal Skateway being one of the most famous. 
• Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing : Explore pristine winter landscapes in national parks like Gatineau Park (Quebec) or Algonquin Park (Ontario). 
• Dog Sledding : Experience the thrill of mushing through the snow in regions like the Yukon or Quebec.

Top Winter Destinations  

• Banff and Jasper National Parks, Alberta : A winter wonderland with opportunities for skiing, ice climbing, and scenic drives. 
• Whistler, British Columbia : A world-renowned ski resort with excellent winter sports facilities. 
• Quebec City, Quebec : The Winter Carnival, ice hotels, and European-style charm make it a must-visit. 
• Mont Tremblant, Quebec : A picturesque ski village with a European flair. 
• Ottawa, Ontario : The capital city offers ice skating on the Rideau Canal and Winterlude festivities. 

Canadian travel in the winter requires visitors to be prepared for the weather. This includes wearing warm, layered clothing, insulated boots, gloves, and hats. It's also essential to have proper winter driving skills and equipment if you plan to explore snowy areas on your own. A guided tour will provide transportation, and in Northern regions will also supply clothing rentals.

Transportation in Canada

Travel Canada using a diverse range of transportation options, allowing you to explore the country's vast and varied landscapes.  

1. Air Travel  

Canada boasts a network of international and domestic airports, with Toronto Pearson International Airport as a major hub for international flights.

Air travel in Canada is characterized by relatively expensive domestic flights, dominated by major airlines like Air Canada and WestJet. The emergence of new discount airlines, such as Porter, Swoop and Flair, has introduced more competition, potentially making air travel more affordable. In addition to Air Canada and WestJet, several regional airlines like Air Creebec, Air St-Pierre, and Pacific Coastal Airlines connect various parts of the country.

2. Train Travel 

 VIA Rail Canada serves as the primary passenger train service, offering direct routes between major cities, including the iconic journey from Vancouver to Toronto. While trains may be slower than air travel, they provide a convenient mode of transportation for shorter distances.  

That said, a train vacation is an epic way to immerse oneself in Canada’s landscapes and truly see the country, from coast to coast. Unlike the hustle required of air travel, a train trip is the ideal slow travel experience.

3. Road Trips and Car Rentals 

Car travel is a popular way to explore the vast expanse of Canada, with the iconic Trans-Canada Highway connecting the country from coast to coast. Rental cars are readily available in most regions and reasonably priced in urban centers, making it an excellent choice for venturing off the beaten path. Car rentals can be added to many of our trips, after your time on the train, allowing you to explore hidden gems across the country.

#2 Travel Tip: Focus on one region

Canada is a huge country, covering 9,976,139 square kilometres (or 3.855 million square miles). If you only have one week or less, pick one region to visit or you’ll spend all your time on the road. A train vacation is a great way to see more of the country in a condensed time.

Accommodations in Canada

Canada offers a diverse range of accommodations, each with its own unique appeal and atmosphere to cater to different preferences and travel experiences.

Hotels & Resorts

From luxurious options like the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise in the heart of the Rockies to eco-lodges like the Sonora Resort, tucked away in pristine wilderness, and rustic mountain and lake lodges, there's something for everyone. Most luxury hotels and resorts feature spas, gourmet dining, and some provide spectacular views of nearby natural wonders. These types of accommodations are very popular, so it is important to book well in advance, especially for the summer. Here are some of Canada’s top hotels and resorts .  

1. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise : Nestled in the heart of Banff National Park in Alberta, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is renowned for its breathtaking location on the shores of Lake Louise. It  provides upscale accommodations, fine dining, a world-class spa, and numerous outdoor activities, making it a top choice for those seeking a quintessential mountain retreat. This luxury hotel offers guests unparalleled views of the emerald lake and surrounding snow-capped peaks. Available activities change with the seasons – from ice skating on the frozen lake in winter to hiking and canoeing in the summer.  

2. Fairmont Banff Springs : The Banff Springs is a destination in itself, with a timeless charm that appeals to history and architecture enthusiasts. Known as the "Castle in the Rockies,"this iconic luxury resort is located in Banff National Park. It boasts a blend of Scottish baronial castle architecture and modern amenities. Its rich history and grandeur offer a sense of stepping back in time while enjoying contemporary comforts. Guests can explore the historic hallways, relax in the mineral-rich thermal springs, play a round of golf, and indulge in gourmet dining.  

3. Sonora Resort : Situated on Sonora Island in British Columbia's Discovery Islands, Sonora Resort is an exclusive eco-lodge accessible only by boat or seaplane. Surrounded by pristine wilderness, it provides an immersive natural experience. Guests can engage in wildlife viewing, including grizzly bear tours, and enjoy outdoor adventures such as kayaking, hiking, and fishing. The resort's commitment to sustainability and the environment is evident throughout, making it an excellent choice for eco-conscious travelers seeking a remote yet luxurious retreat. 

4. Hotel de Glace : Located in Quebec, Hotel de Glace is a one-of-a-kind ice hotel constructed entirely of snow and ice each winter season. The ephemeral nature of the accommodation — it is rebuilt from scratch annually — is truly unique. The hotel offers an unforgettable overnight experience in themed ice rooms with intricate ice sculptures and carvings. Guests can enjoy a winter wonderland atmosphere, complete with ice slides, an ice chapel for weddings, and a hot tub and sauna to keep warm. It's a bucket-list destination for those seeking a truly unique and memorable stay.

Hostels or Bed and Breakfasts

Looking for budget tips? In Canada, budget travelers can choose between hostels for an economical stay, while those with a mid-range budget may find B&Bs to be an excellent option for a balance of affordability and a personal touch.

Hostels are a popular choice for travellers hoping to save money. With over 100 hostels across the country, they provide affordable lodging options in cities, towns, and popular tourist destinations. These accommodations often feature dormitory-style rooms with shared facilities, making them ideal for solo travelers, backpackers, or those looking to save on lodging costs. Guests can expect basic amenities like communal kitchens, common areas, and free Wi-Fi. Prices are relatively low, making them an attractive option for those on a tight budget. However, it's essential to note that hostels may not offer the same level of privacy and comfort as hotels, making hotels a better choice for travelers with a mid-range budget.

Bed and Breakfasts offer a more intimate and personalized lodging experience. They are typically found in smaller towns, rural areas, or historic districts, and they emphasize warm hospitality and locally sourced breakfasts. B&Bs are known for their cozy rooms, often individually decorated, and the chance to interact with friendly hosts who can provide local insights. These accommodations are well-suited for travelers seeking a homely atmosphere and a chance to connect with the local culture. Prices can vary, but B&Bs are generally more affordable than hotels amd resorts, making them an attractive option for travelers who value comfort and local experiences.

Camping and RV Parks

Canada's camping and RV parks offer an opportunity to connect with the country's diverse natural landscapes. Whether you prefer coastal beachfront sites, mountainous terrain, or rugged wilderness, these parks cater to various outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking trails abound, offering adventures for all levels of hikers, from leisurely walks to demanding backcountry expeditions. 

Campgrounds in Canada typically provide a range of amenities and facilities to enhance the camping experience. While the availability of amenities can vary from one campground to another, here are some common amenities you can expect to find:

• Campsite Pads : Most campgrounds offer designated campsite pads or tent areas where you can set up your tent or park your RV. These pads may be gravel, grass, or concrete. 
• Picnic Tables : Campsites often include picnic tables, providing a convenient spot for outdoor meals and relaxation. 
• Fire Pits or Rings : Many campgrounds provide fire pits or fire rings for cooking, roasting marshmallows, and enjoying a campfire in the evening. 
• Washrooms and Showers : Campgrounds typically offer restroom facilities with toilets and sinks. Some campgrounds, especially in national parks, provide shower facilities as well. 
• Water Stations : Access to clean drinking water is essential and is usually available at various locations throughout the campground. 
• Dump Stations : RV campgrounds often have dump stations for sewage disposal, making it convenient for those traveling with recreational vehicles. 
• Electrical Hookups : RV campgrounds may offer electrical hookups, ranging from basic (15-amp) to more powerful (30-amp or 50-amp) connections for electricity. 
• Sewer Hookups : RV campgrounds with full hookups provide sewer connections for waste disposal. 
• Playgrounds : Some campgrounds have playgrounds for children to enjoy. 
• Camp Stores : Camp stores or general stores are available in some campgrounds, offering basic supplies, groceries, firewood, and camping gear. 
• Laundry Facilities : Larger campgrounds, especially those in or near towns and cities, may offer laundry facilities for longer-term campers. 
• Wi-Fi and Cell Service : While campgrounds in remote areas may lack internet connectivity, some campgrounds, particularly those near urban centers, may offer Wi-Fi access and reasonable cell phone reception. 
• Visitor Centers : National and provincial park campgrounds often have visitor centers where you can obtain maps, information, and guidance about local attractions and activities. 
• Recreation Areas : Many campgrounds have recreational areas for sports and outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing. 
• Dumpsters and Recycling Bins : Proper waste disposal is essential, and campgrounds usually provide dumpsters and recycling bins. 

Keep in mind that the availability and quality of these amenities can vary widely, so it's advisable to check the specific campground's website or contact them directly to inquire about their facilities before planning your camping trip.

Many of Canada’s best campgrounds are situated within its stunning national and provincial parks, each with its unique features and outdoor experiences: 

• Pacific Rim National Park, British Columbia : Located on Vancouver Island's west coast, Pacific Rim National Park offers a unique camping experience with its proximity to the ocean. Visitors can camp on the beach, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves, and explore lush coastal rainforests. The park is also known for its excellent opportunities for storm watching during the winter months. 
• Jasper National Park, Alberta : Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is renowned for its awe-inspiring mountain scenery and pristine wilderness. Campers can choose from a variety of campgrounds, including ones near glacier-fed turquoise lakes. Hiking trails offer a chance to explore the rugged terrain and encounter wildlife like elk, moose, and bears. 
• Banff National Park, Alberta : Another gem in the Rockies, Banff National Park provides campers with breathtaking mountain vistas and pristine lakes. Campgrounds are spread throughout the park, allowing visitors to stay amidst the natural beauty. Hiking opportunities range from easy strolls to challenging backcountry trails, with popular routes like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake offering iconic views. 
• Ontario's Provincial Parks : Ontario offers an array of provincial parks that provide camping experiences in various terrains, from serene forests to rugged Canadian Shield landscapes. The Bruce Peninsula National Park is known for its stunning cliffs and crystal-clear waters, while Algonquin Provincial Park offers a rich tapestry of lakes and forests, ideal for hiking and wildlife encounters. 
• Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland : This UNESCO World Heritage Site is celebrated for its dramatic fjords and stunning hikes, including some over challenging terrains. Camping in this park allows visitors to immerse themselves in the region's geological wonders and unique coastal landscapes.

Official Languages in Canada

When you get here, you may notice signage in both French and English. That’s because both are recognized official languages in Canada. But don’t worry about needing a translator. While French is dominant in Québec, many Québecois speak English, particularly in the service and tourist industry. Throughout the rest of Canada, English is the most common language.

Culture in Canada

Canada's culture is a rich tapestry woven from a diverse range of influences, reflecting the country's history of Indigenous heritage, European colonization, and immigration from around the world. Canadian culture celebrates multiculturalism and values inclusivity, making it a mosaic of traditions, languages, and art forms.

• Indigenous Culture : The country's Indigenous cultures, including First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples, hold a significant place in Canadian culture, with their art, music, and storytelling contributing to the national identity.  
• Holidays : Major holidays and celebrations in Canada include Canada Day on July 1st, celebrated with fireworks, parades, and cultural events, and Thanksgiving in October, when Canadians gather with family and friends to give thanks and enjoy a feast. Other significant celebrations include Christmas, New Year's Day, and Victoria Day, all marked by festive traditions and cultural festivities throughout the country.
• Food : Food in Canada is a delicious blend of flavors from around the world. Poutine, butter tarts, and Nanaimo bars as just a few examples of iconic Canadian dishes.  
• Outdoor influence : Canada's culture is marked by its love for outdoor activities, from winter sports like hockey and skiing to the passion for hiking, kayaking, and camping in the country's stunning natural landscapes. 
• Arts : The arts thrive in Canada, with world-class museums, theaters, and galleries across the country. Canadian literature, music, and film have made a global impact, producing celebrated artists like Margaret Atwood, Leonard Cohen, and acclaimed filmmakers like Denis Villeneuve.

A common question is about Canadian currency, which some visitors refer to as “funny money.” In addition to nickels, dimes and quarters, Canadian coins come in $1, the “ loonie ” —which has nothing to do with being crazy about money— and $2, the “toonie.” 

Some visitors are surprised to learn that Canada no longer has pennies. When paying in cash, items will be rounded up or down to the nearest 5 cents. 

Yes! We accept credit cards. Visa and MasterCard are the most popular, while American Express may not be as widely accepted, especially in more rural areas. Many cards charge a transaction fee for foreign currency transactions, so check with your financial institution prior to your trip to determine what is best for you. 

Do note that while some businesses may accept payment in US dollars, change will always be provided in Canadian currency. The exchange rate can always be found here.

Taxes in Canada

Throughout Canada, there is a federal tax and/or a provincial tax applied to most purchases. The amount of the tax varies per province, anywhere from 5% to 15%. All provinces and some municipalities levy a supplemental hotel room or resort tax as well (your Vacation Advisor will make sure you have these details).

Tipping in Canada

As in the US, tips are often given in recognition of service excellence. In general, 15-20% of the pre-tax amount is recommended. It’s appropriate to tip servers and bar staff, taxi and limo drivers, and tour guides, as well as hotel staff and even your train crews. 

Whether you travel on VIA Rail or Rocky Mountaineer , feel free to tip your server in the dining cars and/or team members responsible for your cabin or berth in the sleeping car (VIA Rail only) and other common areas. You can speak with the Service Manager on board your train for suggested gratuities too (and your Vacation Advisor will give you these details too!).

If you’re traveling across the country, you may gain or lose an hour, depending on which direction you’re headed. Canada has six time zones, with St. John’s, NL (Newfoundland Time) being four and half hours ahead of Vancouver, BC (Pacific Time). 

Most areas also observe Daylight Savings Time. If you happen to be here on the second Sunday in March, clocks go forward by one hour (at 2:00 a.m.). After Daylight Savings, the clocks are turned back by one hour on the first Sunday in November (at 2:00 a.m.). Luckily, our phones now do this for us automatically.

Canada is One of the Safest Countries to Travel in the World 

According to the Global Peace Index( 3 ), the annual ranking done by The Institute for Economics and Peace, Canada is one of the safest countries in the world. It was also ranked as one of the safest countries during the pandemic too.

About the author: Athena McKenzie is the Content Manager at Fresh Tracks Canada. An experienced lifestyle journalist, she has written about travel, design, arts and entertainment. Her work has appeared in The Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, Zoomer Magazine, Elle Canada and...   Read more

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The Canada Vacation Guide for Couples: Places to Stay & Things to Do

• James Wong is a freelance travel writer and expert.
• He's reported for publications including VOGUE, GQ, Time Out and Thrillist.
• James has lived in London, Tokyo and New York; and has traveled to almost every corner of the world.

The second largest country in the world, a Canada vacation has a trove of tricks to unearth for couples seeking adventure . But despite its size, the 2023 population stands at under 39 million (by comparison, the US has nearly 332 million people). There's plenty of room to breathe here. You'll wander in solitude among British Columbia's verdant landscape, wildlife watch without the tourist buses circling around and, best of all, soak in world-famous attractions at your own pace. Even at Niagara Falls , there are corners of seclusion.

That's not to say it gets lonely: Heavyweight cities like Toronto , Montreal and Vancouver have just the entertainment, food and culture to keep city dwellers occupied, and it's at these you'll want to begin or end your trip yo Canada as you dot along all the best places to visit. Toronto is an easy 1.5-hour flight from New York City, and Vancouver is just one hour from Seattle. Ready to shake those loonies and toonies? Here's everything you need to know before embarking on a honeymoon , anniversary trip or couples retreat in Canada.

Canada Travel Trips in this Article:

The Best Time to Travel to Canada

Canada travel tips, is canada good for a romantic getaway, places to visit in canada, the best canada hotels and resorts, things to do in canada, what to pack for a canada vacation.

The best time to visit Canada for good weather is on the shoulder of the summer months, so May/June and September/October. Montreal is big on festivals in June and July when events like Festival International de Jazz de Montréal take place, but avoid August as it gets uncomfortably hot and humid. Meanwhile, Vancouver Pride happens at the peak of their hot season every August, but thankfully, it's not too humid.

Winters are brutal—in Toronto, it regularly falls below zero. Over on the West Coast, Vancouver's rainfall is similar to that of our rainy city, Seattle. Springtime is best across the board for skiing, especially if you do it in Whistler.

Canada's big cities are dotted along the border and are all easy to access from the US. You will need a passport or a NEXUS card to enter Canada. $1 is equal to around 1.37 Canadian dollars. English and French are the country's official languages, but outside of Quebec, most people just speak English.

Pros of a Canada Vacation

Located just north of the US border, Canada is within easy reach and is affordable for US travelers. You can even take a bus from Portland, Seattle and Bellingham, Washington, up to Vancouver. The USD to CAD exchange rate has always favored the US, and that only adds to the affordability of travel. Canada is a relatively safe and liberal country, and most of its citizens are friendly and welcoming to all.

Cons of a Canada Vacation

Canada is huge and spread out, so traveling between cities and points of interest can be quite the journey. The ice, snow and flooding can mean your trip is disrupted, especially if you're heading to national parks or remote locations. In the cities, the harsh weather also results in construction work, and often your desired sights are covered in scaffolding.

Here are the best places to include on your Canadian travel itinerary for a mix of city and outdoor life.

The largest city in Canada, this East Coast destination is packed with entertainment and international gastronomy. It's one of the most multicultural cities in the world. The skyline icon is the CN Tower, and excursions to Niagara Falls depart from Toronto.

Vancouver blends big city life with natural landscapes like Grouse Mountain and Stanley Park. It serves as an excellent base if you want to go rock climbing in Squamish or skiing in Whistler.

Banff is Canada's outdoor postcard. The resort town in Alberta is home to the country's first national park and is part of the Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site. Banff is also where elk and grizzly bears roam free.

Montreal feels like a slice of Paris in Canada. There are romantic corners all over the city, from its Notre Dame Basilica (where Celine Dion got married, no less) to historic Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal).

Check into the most luxurious stays for a couples retreat, whether your preferred scenery is mountains or skyscrapers.

The Ritz-Carlton Montreal, Montreal

If the architecture in Montreal is your fairy-tale setting, then The Ritz-Carlton is your dream castle. This AAA Five-Diamond hotel opened back in 1912, balancing historical structures with modern amenities. The European-style retreat has a beautiful fine-dining restaurant, a Dom Pérignon Champagne Bar and afternoon tea. It's also a landmark venue for wedding ceremonies .

1228 Sherbrooke Street West, Montreal, Quebec, H3G 1H6

5.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

The St. Regis Toronto, Toronto

Situated 65 stories high, The St. Regis is in prime position for exploration—it's located just steps from the CN Tower, Rogers Center and the Scotiabank Arena. Nearly 300 rooms and suites are among the city's largest, and butler service is available for guests in select suites. Don't miss the spa, where almost all of the treatments can be tailored for couples, and keep a lookout for seasonal celebration packages .

325 Bay Street, Toronto, Ontario, M5H 4G3

4.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Shangri-La Vancouver, Vancouver

With a thriving Asian community along the West Coast, the Shangri-La Vancouver is a firm local favorite and one of the city's most glamorous destinations. Nestled between the mountains and the sea, this hotel occupies the top 15 floors of downtown's tallest building. Take in those views together from your own private balcony, or join the action downstairs at BC-infused Italian restaurant, Carlino.

1128 W Georgia Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6E 0A8

Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff

Built in 1888, this Fairmont is modeled after a Scottish Baronial castle, and is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hotel is as much a part of the postcard pictures as the views its guests enjoy from it. Located in Banff National Park, there are multiple hotel restaurants, boutiques, a 27-hole championship golf course in the summer, skiing facilities in winter, and an award-winning spa to soothe those muscles after a day out in Canada's famed outdoors.

405 Spray Avenue, Banff, Alberta, T1L 1J4

For couples seeking the best tourist attractions and excursions, plus the most romantic restaurants, here are the best things to do when traveling through Canada.

Break a Sweat at Banff National Park

It's hard to beat the vistas in Banff National Park—it's so stunning that the tourism department's got Lake Louise plastered all over their promotional materials. Get your cherished snaps with a Flytographer , then go deep into the park's magical forests and cliffside trails with a hike and a picnic. Those who arrive during winter can switch boots for skis—Banff offers outdoor activity year round.

Sail Into Niagara Falls

The majestic Niagara Falls is a bucket list sight for many Americans, and it's on the Canadian side that you'll witness her best angles. Viator's best of Niagara Falls tour takes a small group of guests by boat right into and behind the racing cascades. After that, there's plenty more to do in town, including shopping, dining and taking in the falls at a distance on the Skylon Tower Observation Deck (included with your package).

Ski and Spa in Whistler

Canada's never short of snow, and the country's premier ski destination can be found in Whistler. Frequented by David and Victoria Beckham , you and your winter bunny will take your pizza slice moves over acres and acres of slopes. To wind down, hit the pedestrian-only Whistler Village to après-ski, and soothe the chill away at one of the ten best-rated local spas on Tripadvisor .

Watch Cirque du Soleil in Its Birth Province

Did you know that the internationally acclaimed circus arts show, Cirque du Soleil , was first performed at Baie-Saint-Paul, a small town near Québec City? Today, neighboring Montreal plays host to the spectacle, with recent hits such as Alegria, KOOZA and CRYSTAL. Snag the hottest ticket in town, and immerse yourselves in storytelling via acrobatics and fire dancing.

3.5 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Take an Asian Food Tour

Though downtown Vancouver has a Chinatown, locals all know that the suburb of Richmond is where to get authentic Asian food. In fact, it's widely heralded as the best place to get Chinese food outside of Asia. If you're down for copious amounts of dim sum, pastries, wontons and bubble tea, let a seasonal Vancouverite be your expert guide and steer you to more adventurous flavors.

Enjoy a Romantic Dinner on the CN Tower

Sure, it's touristy, but what's wrong with that when you're… a tourist? The CN Tower's aptly named 360 Restaurant is a glorious dining destination, serving Canadian dishes from coast to coast, and it has the world's highest wine cellar. If you're feeling brave before (and want to really earn that meal), the EdgeWalk gives visitors a chance to take a hands-free walk atop the 1,815-foot structure.

4.0 Star Rating | Read Reviews

Depending on the season, things can get very, very cold in Canada. Bring thermals, hats, gloves and hand warmers. Water-resistant boots are also advised if you're traveling beyond the big cities, and you'll definitely need an umbrella or rain jacket. Canadian and US outlets are the same, so there's no need to pack an adapter.

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

From the Bay of Fundy in the east to the rugged Pacific coastline of Vancouver Island in the west, Canada provides glorious outdoor sights. Tour the nation’s impressive scenery, sophisticated cities and peaceful countryside for a vacation you will remember forever.

In the east, the fictional home of Anne of Green Gables on Prince Edward Island will make the beloved young adult series come alive. In nearby Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, see the unusual tides of the Bay of Fundy that rise and fall up to 50 feet (16 meters) each day.

On the western coast, British Columbia has lovely harbors in Vancouver and Victoria, with whale watching, sunbathing and shoreline walks. These and other Canadian cities have eclectic neighborhoods with concentrations of artists and ethnic centers, including interesting Chinatowns.

Spread across the center of the country, Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Calgary and Edmonton are among the nation’s largest metropolitan areas. All have modern city centers with wonderful restaurants, shopping, museums and galleries. In addition, each has its unique personality, from old French customs to major league baseball to cowboy rodeos.

Canada’s mountainous regions offer superb opportunities for summer hiking and sightseeing and winter skiing. Visit Revelstoke and Whistler in British Columbia and Banff and Lake Louise in Alberta for some of the best Rocky Mountain slopes and views. In the east, Mont-Tremblant in Québec has excellent skiing in the Laurentian Mountains.

Head to the lakes regions in Manitoba and Saskatchewan for fishing and hunting. Travel north to Nunavut, the Northwest Territories and the Yukon to camp under the northern lights. Canada’s national and provincial parks cater to Canadian and international visitors with scenic trails and adventurous activities.

In Canada try panning for gold, taste maple syrup fresh from production or even go on a polar bear safari. Across the nation you’re likely to be greeted with a friendly welcome. Arrive anywhere and keep exploring the beautiful lands and waters of this great nation.

Popular cities in Canada

Reasons to visit.

• Rogers Centre
• CF Toronto Eaton Centre
• Château Frontenac
• Quebec City Town Hall
• Citadel of Quebec
• Montreal Museum of Fine Arts
• Bell Centre
• Place des Arts
• Canada Place
• Granville Island Public Market
• BC Place Stadium
• Calgary Zoo
• Scotiabank Saddledome
• Parliament Hill
• Byward Market Square
• National Gallery of Canada

Popular places to visit

Take the glass elevator to the lookout points on Toronto’s iconic landmark to enjoy views as far as Niagara Falls or have dinner in high style.

Stanley Park

Check out this local favorite since Victorian times for its forested walking trails, beachside activities, attractive gardens and wildlife.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

One of Vancouver’s most popular attractions offers a unique perspective on nature and is just a few minutes from the city center.

Regions in Canada

Prince Edward Island

Nova Scotia

British Columbia

New Brunswick

• All areas in Canada
• Things to do

I only need accommodations for part of my trip

The ultimate Canada Travel Guide

by Kira | Sep 23, 2022 | Canada , Destinations

Get ready for a fantastic adventure with the Canada Travel Guide.

Canada is a vast country filled with experiences and adventures, and it can be hard to decide where to start and what to see. That’s what we’re here for! This comprehensive Canada Travel Guide will provide you with essential tips and tricks, lists of what to see and do, and a fabulous two-week itinerary. Let’s get this trip started…

Travel Tips for Canada

We’ve collected some tips from avid travelers and locals to ensure your trip will go perfectly.

Be prepared for the weather: Canada isn’t always cold; summer can get quite hot with temperatures up to 30°C (86°F), so pack accordingly and check the weather when packing.

Check Visa & Entry requirements: Especially entry requirements can quickly change. Prepare by checking official pages, such as government pages, for your visa and COVID-19 entry requirements .

Check Alcohol Age limits : Even though the restrictions aren’t as strict as in the US, restrictions still vary by province. Usually, it is either 18 (Quebec, Manitoba, and Alberta) or 19 (British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Ontario, the Maritime Provinces, and the Territories).

Tipping: Don’t forget to tip when you’re eating out. The tip ranges from 15-20%, depending on the service.

Sales Tax: Price tags don’t necessarily include a sales tax. Depending on the province, it will be between 10-15%.

Stick to one or two areas: Canada is large, and even though you would like to see it all, that might not be possible. Stick to one or two areas on your road and come back in the future to see more.

Book accommodation in advance : to get a reasonable price, plan your trip all the way through and book hotels (and rental cars) in advance.

What does it cost to travel to Canada?

When planning a trip to Canada, you should plan a daily budget of about $173.

Accommodation: Plan for an average spending of$80 per night. Hotel rooms in bigger cities might set you back $100-200, while staying in smaller towns and booking in advance will be slightly cheaper. You can also camp on designated campsites for about $20 per tent or vehicle.

Transportation: If you’re renting a rental car, plan for about $70 a day. A two-week trip with a rental car will set you back between $900-1000. Also, remember that you need to be at least 25 to rent a car in Canada.

Food: It depends on where you eat and what type of food you prefer. If you like eating out in restaurants or your accommodation does not have a kitchen plan for about $50 for daily sustenance. You can reduce this cost significantly by shopping in supermarkets and cooking whenever possible.

Activities: Many activities in Canada can be enjoyed for free. Some National Parks might require an entry fee, but most outdoor activities will be free. If you’re planning to go whale watching or on a polar bear safari, be aware of the costs and try to book in advance.

To learn more about how to travel to Canada on a budget and for more tips and tricks, check out the blog Canada on a budget by our colleague Hamzah !

10 Must-See Places in Canada

No Canada Travel Guide would be complete without a list of must-see places. We promise there’s something for everyone.

1. Cypress Hills, Saskatchewan

Every outdoor activity you ever dreamed of is possible here. When here, you want to head out on a hike, go riding or spend your time on a boat somewhere in nature. The Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park has it all. Even if you want to go camping, there are several options for you to choose one. When her you like to pitch a tent or sleep in a log hut – every outdoor lover’s dreams will come true here.

2. Wolf Lake, Yukon

Wolf Lake is a beautiful nature reserve in Yukon. Her, you can get in touch with nature. Vis t the Wolf Lake lodge to have a fantastic time at the lake and learn how to fly fish. You can stay here overnight and rent boats.

3. Fernie, British Columbia

This small town South of Calgary and just North of the US Border is a natural paradise all year round. In summer, you can hike several wilderness trails or swim in Fairy Creek Falls. There’s an Alpine resort in winter, or you can head out into nature on a snowmobile. Whenever you choose to come here. You will always find something to do.

4. Fraser River, British Columbia

The Fraser River is the longest in British Columbia, and especially Fraser Valley is popular among locals and Tourists. The e are caves you can explore, such as the Chipmunk Caves, and several beautiful walks and hikes around the area. Head to the Community forest on the Eastern Hillside or the Cheam Wetlands, which are great for bird watching.

5. Old Québec, Québec

This UNESCO world heritage site is part of the original colonial settlements and is over 400 years old. Wh n visiting, you might feel like you’re in European cities such as Edinburgh or Paris’s streets. Highlights when visiting Old Québec:

• Petit-Champlain The area is known for its European charm, cobblestone streets, and great shopping opportunities.
• Parliament Hill & Plains of Abraham A beautiful and elegant area of the city, dominated by the parliament building.
• Inside Québec City’s Walls Visit Châteu Frontenac and the Citadelle inside the fortified city walls.

6. Niagara Falls, Ontario

Take it from us; the view of the Horseshoe Falls in Niagara Falls, Canada, is just better than from the US side. There are plenty of things to do here; if you’re interested in getting up close to the falls, book a voyage on the Maiden of the Mist. You can hike around the area on the Niagara Falls Recreation Trail or to Niagara Glen.

7. Toronto, Ontario

Toronto isn’t far from Niagara Falls and couldn’t be more different. High towering skyscrapers and modern architecture await visitors eagerly. The best things to do in Toronto:

• Royal Ontario Museum
• Art Gallery of Toronto
• St. Lawrence Market
• The Hockey Hall of Fame
• Queen Street West
• Yonge-Dundas Square

8. Sable Island, Nova Scotia

How about a trip to an island in the middle of the ocean? Sable Island is a nature reserve that is only accessible by air or sea. You can travel here only with the weather in perfect condition and from June to October. Keep in mi d that there might be delays and cancellations going to the island or on your return trip. Once you h ve arrived here, you’ll find amazing wildlife, such as horses, walruses, and grey seals, as well as stunning landscapes and vistas. This is an absolutely unique adventure.

9. Churchill, Manitoba

The North awaits you with a town that cannot be missed in any Canada Travel Guide. The area is known for polar bears in the fall and other amazing wildlife, such as Beluga Whales. One of the main reasons why people travel here is the Polar Bear safaris.

10. Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario

As you might’ve seen by now, Canada is all about nature, and Canadians love spending time out in the wilderness of their beautiful country. Algonquin Provincial Park combines everything a nature lover needs. You can g camping, moose watching, fishing, hiking, and spend some cozy time at a lodge or in a log cabin. You’ll definitely find something to do here.

Top 5 Activities in Canada

Next to all the beautiful places you can see, there are also quite some things you can only do in Canada or that perfectly fit into your adventure. This Cana a Travel Guide will hit you up with the coolest things to do in Canada!

1. Polar Bear Safari in Churchill

Heading to Churchill. there are several tour operators and options to choose from. You can decide to go on day trips or stay for up to two weeks exploring the wildlife close to the North Pole. Best Time to visit: September to October

Where to start: Some tour operators offer transportation from Winnipeg, while others expect you to come to Churchill before your trip. Check with the tour guide before booking anything.

• Day Trip: $2,000. This includes the tour in a Tundra buggy, three meals, and a round trip airfare from Calgary or Edmonton. These tours sell out fast, so make sure to book ahead and find out more here !
• 8-Days-Trip : The prices vary depending on what kind of tour you’re booking, starting at $10,000. All of the tours include transportation, accommodations, meals, and excursion gear (rain gear, wellies, marine gear). Click here to find out more about the Birds, Bears & Belugas tour or other available tours .

2. Canadian canoeing in Nahanni Canyon

Canoeing means fully immersing yourself in nature and becoming one with the water. We recommend going on a guided tour when canoeing Nahanni Canyon; however, this is a commitment. You will end up to 14 days in nature, camping and paddling through remote wilderness. Best Time to visit: June to September

Where to start: Many expeditions start at Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories. You can fly there from Yellowknife or drive up from Edmonton, which will take you approximately 18 hours.

8-Day Flatwater Canoeing: This tour is perfect for beginners and takes you along stunning landscapes to Virginia Falls. You will start and end the tour with a stunning flight over the mountains and canyons of the area. The price of about $7000 includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as the canoe equipment and the flights to and from the river. Find out more here .

Two-Week Whitewater Adventure: This adventure is perfect for intermediary paddlers and people who are comfortable around whitewater. This 350k trip along the river will take you 13 days and costs about $8500, which again includes three meals a day and transport from and to Fort Simpson. Find out more here.

3. Bungee Jumping in Ottawa

Are you fancying an adrenalin-filled adventure? Head to the small town of Chelsea, just outside of Ottawa, and jump from the highest platform in Canada. Great Canadian Bungee has been in operation for 31 years now and are pros at what they do.

Bungee Jumping: The first jump of the day will set you back around $150; additional jumps on the same day are around $75.

Packages: You can also book combo deals, including a bungee jump, rafting, and/or a stay at B&B close by. Prices here start at around $300.

4. Whale Watching in Vancouver

Western Canada’s coastlines, especially Vancouver Isla, are perfect for Whale Watching. Several companies offer tours ranging from 1 hour to 5 hours.

You can always choose whether you want to head out to sea on a regular boat or on a more adventurous zodiac-style boat. The latter is a little more expensive, and you might get wet, but you’ll definitely have an up-close experience with the whales.

Vancouver Whale Watch: This company offers a tour on a more sheltered zodiac and an open-sea experience on a small zodiac with a small intimate group. Tours run from April to September and start from $155. Tours usually take 3-5 hours, depending on where the whales are.

Prince of Whales: A tour on the sheltered catamaran starts at $149 (per person) and will take around 3 or more hours. If you want to ride on the zodiac, it will take 3-3.5 hours and cost you around $139. Tours usually run from April to September/October. You can find more info here .

5. Skiing in Whistler

Every Canada Travel Guide will include a trip to Whistler, and going here is worth it. Even if you hate skiing. You can hike the area in summer and enjoy stunning vistas and beautiful landscapes. In Winter, the small town is almost overrun with ski tourists. Day Passes for Ski Resorts will cost around $360 for adults and $180 for kids.

Are you ready for your next adventure?

Travel to Canada and North America with JoinMyTrip and discover the great outdoors on this beautiful continent.

The best 2-Week Itinerary for Canada

If you don’t know how to start planning your Canada Adventure, look no further! In your ultimate Canada Travel Guide, we have gathered the best itinerary for your next trip here!

Day 1-2: Calgary

Start your journey in Calgary; it is just north of the US-American border and the largest metropolitan area in Alberta. Pick up your rental car on the second day when leaving the city.

What to do in Calgary

• Calgary Zoo Calgary Zoo can easily be reached by train and has a wonderful selection of animals, such as pandas and meerkats.
• Heritage Park This historical park will give a better understanding of the life of people in Colonial times. Actors will act out small bits of local history. The park includes a small museum, a historic village, and a lot of beautiful nature.
• Calgary Tower This almost 200m tall observation tower offers beautiful and unique city views. It also features a revolving restaurant.
• Glenbow Museum The Glenbow museum offers a selection of West Canadian historical artifacts as well as national artists.

Day 2-4: Banff Nationalpark

Pick up your rental car on the second day and head west to Banff Nationalpark. The drive will take you about 1,5 hours and features beautiful views along the way. You will have to pay an admission fee to enter the park. Adults cost about $11, and camping has to be paid separately. Here’s a more detailed price overview .

What to do in Banff Nationalpark

• Hike more than 1.600 km of beautiful trails Here’s a more detailed view of all those beautiful trails and what to remember when hiking the park.
• Ditch the car Park your car at the visitor center and take one of the shuttles taking you to locations and on tours around the national park. Find more info here .
• Do what makes you happy. There’s something to do for everyone at Banff Nationalpark. Whether you like spending time at a lodge enjoying some quiet time or would like to go hiking, horseback riding, or kayaking – Banff has something for you! You can find an overview here .

Day 4-6: Jasper Nationalpark

Jasper Nationalpark is the second-largest Dark Sky Reserve in the world! This is the place if you’ve ever wanted to go star gazing. You should definitely take the car here to get around and discover nature. The same fees apply to Jasper Nationalpark as to Banff Nationalpark. You can find a detailed overview here .

What to do in Jasper Nationalpark

• Star Gazing The Dark Sky Reserve is definitely worth enjoying. Grab your camping gear and head to a campground to enjoy a fantastic view of the stars and our universe.
• Wildlife Watching Depending on which season you’ll be traveling here, there are different animals just roaming around the park, such as deer, bears, and mountain lions. If you see animals, do not feed them human food and stay in your car. For more information, please consult the national park service website .
• Hiking & Exploring This is a given for every national park anywhere in the world. Pick one of the many trails according to what you’re comfortable with, and head out to see some vistas.

Day 6-7: Sun Peaks

After spending so much time in nature, you’re slowly heading back to civilization. From Jasper, you’re going to drive for 450km (roughly 4-5h) to Sun Peaks in British Colombia. This small mountain town is famous for skiing and its resorts. Outside of winter, you can hike and explore the area, golf, or take mountain bikes through the woods.

Day 7-11: Vancouver

We just can’t write a Canada Travel Guide without mentioning the beautiful city of Vancouver. From Sun Peaks, it will take you about 5 hours to reach the city center of Vancouver. The city has something to offer for everyone so you can spend your days here without worrying about what to do.

What to do in Vancouver

• Stanley Park A beautiful park right on the water with beautiful views to enjoy while walking.
• Whale Watching This is a must-do in Canada. Scroll up a little, and you’ll find our tips and tricks for the perfect Whale Watching tour.
• Vancouver Art Gallery
• Museum of Anthropology
• Science World
• Museum of Vancouver
• Van Dusen Botanical Garden This beautiful garden features some extraordinary plants and a beautiful lake.
• Richmond Night Market This market runs on weekends during the summer months and is a collection of street food and local vendors.

Day 11-14: Victoria

Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and can be found in the south of Vancouver Island. Heading here means heading into nature and getting close up with the great outdoors yet again. If you want to explore British Colombia a little more, check out the Must Visit Spots in British Columbia .

What to do in Victoria

• Royal BC Museum
• Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
• Miniature World
• Maritime Museum of British Colombia
• National Toy Museum of Canada
• Fishermen’s Wharf Park
• Discover Nature on Vancouver Island You can discover the whole island just by hiking or from the water with a boat. We recommend heading out to Tofino for some eerie moods and maybe some surfing.

Travel to North America with JoinMyTrip

Start your next adventure today by simply booking a trip to North America right now!

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