visit canada travel guide

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.

• Create an account / Login

Visit Canada

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Don't hesitate to contact them directly to ask for maps and tourist guides.

Most of the time, they will be happy to send you travel information free of charge.

DESTINATION CANADA

Destination Canada, the Canadian government's official tourism website, offers a host of information to help you plan your trip to Canada: travel guides, places to go, things to do, souvenir wallpapers, etc.

NATIONAL PARKS (Parks Canada)

The official Parks Canada website presents Canada's national parks. Note that each Canadian province also has its own provincially-managed parks. So if you don't find the park you are looking for on this website, check out the provincial parks website of the province in question (see links below).

TOURISM QUÉBEC

The Tourism Québec website has everything you need to organize your holiday in la belle province .

Other Québec tourism offices:

• Bureau Touristique de Percé
• Tourism Charlevoix
• Maritime Québec

QUÉBEC PARKS (SÉPAQ)

Pay an online visit to Québec's fabulous network of parks. This website will be useful for preparing your vacation in our great outdoors. You will find photos, videos, lists of activities and accommodations, and much much more.

ONTARIO TOURISM

Discover Ontario, home of Niagara Falls, Toronto, the Thousand Islands and Ottawa.

ONTARIO PARKS

Learn more about Ontario's provincial parks. Where to stay, what to do, rates and reservations...

Your trip to Western Canada should begin with a visit to this website, which offers a host of practical information about BC.

Everything you need to know about British Columbia's provincial parks.

TRAVEL ALBERTA

The official Travel Alberta website invites you to visit the beautiful province of Alberta and the spectacular Rocky Mountains. Everything you need to plan your Western Canadian adventure.

ALBERTA PARKS

Visit this website to learn more about Alberta's beautiful provincial parks and wilderness areas.

TRAVEL YUKON

Discover this unique northern region, rich in history and natural wonders. The official tourism website provides a host of useful information to help make your dream a reality.

TOURISM NEW BRUNSWICK

The official tourism website of the province of New Brunswick. Travel guides, attractions, accommodations, activities, restaurants, photos, videos...

TOURISM NOVA SCOTIA (Halifax)

Nova Scotia is the heart of the Maritimes, steeped in the rhythm of the sea and the clean salt air. Start your trip with a visit to this useful and inspiring website.  

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Canada Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 28, 2024

Canada is a massive, stunning country filled with friendly people, diverse cities, and unique landscapes. Spanning over 9,000 kilometers (5,600 miles) from the icy tundra of the Yukon to the rocky beaches of the east coast, the Great White North is a country that has something for everyone.

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
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• 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

Vancouver is one of my favorite cities in the world. I love how you can be downtown in a thriving metropolitan city one minute and then twenty minutes later be hiking the mountains. Enjoy the market and a craft beer and see a performance at Granville Island or rent a bike and have a picnic and people-watch in Stanley Park for the day. Head out of town into the mountains to walk across the huge Capilano River suspension bridge 70 meters (230 feet) above the river if you want a specular view. Don’t forget this is one of the top places where you can go whale watching too (there are lots of orcas along the west coast). It’s a top-notch foodie hub too (especially for Asian food).

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

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:

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:

• Alexandrie-Montréal (Montreal)
• 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)

Canada Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel dorms – 35-45 CAD per night
• Budget hotels – 90-120 CAD per night (double in larger cities)
• Airbnb private rooms – 60-90 CAD per night
• Airbnb apartments – 100 CAD per night
• Campsite – 25-35 CAD per night
• Sit-down restaurants – 20-70 CAD
• Casual take-out places – 10-20 CAD
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) – 13 CAD
• Beer – 7 CAD
• Cappuccino/latte – 4.60 CAD
• Bottled water – 2 CAD
• Groceries for a week – 50-75 CAD

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.

Backpacker – 70 CAD Per Day

A backpacking budget covers 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.

Midrange – 185 CAD Per Day

On a mid-range budget, 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.

Upscale – 310 CAD Per Day

On a “luxury” budget, you can eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though, the sky is the limit!

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!

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.

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.

How to Get Around in 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

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Canada isn’t super common but it’s safe and legal. Be prepared for long bouts of no pick-ups, especially if you’re traveling through more rural areas. Hitchwiki.org is an excellent resource for more information.

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.

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 tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Canada travel and continue planning your trip:

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

The 4 Best Hostels in Toronto

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

The 5 Best Hotels in Quebec City

Ottawa: An Outstanding Visit to Canada’s Capital

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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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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 visiting 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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The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Canada

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Planning a Trip to Canada: Travel Tips for the First-Time Visitor

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Hold on to your toques (that’s Canadian for hats!) because you’re about to embark on an epic Canadian adventure. From majestic mountains scraping the sky to bustling cities and charming maritime towns, Canada offers a variety of travel experiences. But with a country this vast, planning a trip to Canada can feel overwhelming. 

This guide will be your trusty maple-flavored map as you navigate the must-sees, hidden gems, and practicalities of exploring Canada. We’ll break it down for you –  from visas and packing tips to where to stay and how to stay safe.  

Whether you’re a history buff craving cobblestone streets and historic sites, a nature lover yearning for epic hikes, or an urbanite seeking world-class museums and vibrant nightlife, you’ll love this northern country.

So, ditch the travel brochures and dive into this treasure trove of practical information. Let’s ensure your Canadian itinerary is meticulously planned, affordable, and, most importantly, unforgettable.

Planning a trip to Canada | Things to know before you go for the first-time visitor  

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Visiting Canada promises national parks galore , plenty of stunning small towns, and an unforgettable experience. 

But before you begin planning your time in Canada, here are a few essential things to remember if you’re a first-time visitor. 

The currency used in Canada is the Canadian dollar (CAD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller purchases or in case of emergencies.

Canada experiences four distinct seasons, with temperatures varying widely depending on the region and time of year. Be sure to check the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly.

Canada is officially bilingual, with English and French being the two official languages. While English is widely spoken throughout the country, especially in urban areas, some regions, particularly in Quebec, primarily use French.

Transportation

Canada is a vast country, so travel between cities and regions may require long drives, flights, or train journeys. Consider renting a car, using domestic flights, or taking advantage of Canada’s extensive bus and train network.

Tipping is customary in Canada, with typical gratuities ranging from 15% to 20% in restaurants, bars, and taxis. Tipping hotel staff, tour guides, and other service providers is common.

Canada is home to diverse wildlife, including bears, moose, and cougars, especially in rural and wilderness areas. Take precautions when hiking or camping, such as carrying bear spray and properly storing food.

Cultural etiquette & general awareness

Canadians are known for their politeness and friendliness. Remember to greet people with a friendly “hello” or “bonjour” and respect cultural differences, particularly in Indigenous communities.

When engaging in outdoor activities, be aware of the local wildlife and stay informed about safety guidelines, particularly in remote or wilderness areas.

Canada has a strict policy on impaired driving, and laws regarding the use of alcohol and cannabis are regulated provincially. Ensure you familiarize yourself with the laws in the province you’re visiting.

Avoid carrying large sums of cash and keep valuables secure, as you would while traveling anywhere. While Canada is generally safe, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist spots.

Visas & entry requirements

Before you pack your bags, check whether you need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada.

While citizens of certain countries can enter Canada with just an eTA linked electronically to their passport, others may need to apply for a visa through their local Canadian consulate. 

The eTA is relatively quick and easy to obtain for eligible travelers, typically processed within minutes, but don’t leave this until the last minute!

Ensure you check the official Canadian immigration website for the most current requirements and processing times.

Check the official Canadian government website to determine your specific requirements.

Staying connected

Purchase a local SIM card for your phone to ensure you have reliable data and calling throughout your trip.

Health insurance

Canada is known for its excellent healthcare system, but visitors must note that this does not extend to tourists without proper health insurance. Before traveling, ensure comprehensive travel insurance covering medical treatment in Canada. 

Healthcare costs for tourists can be high, and having insurance will give you peace of mind and protect you against unexpected medical expenses.

While it’s not mandatory for US passport holders, travel health insurance is highly recommended when visiting Canada, as health care can be expensive for non-residents.

When is the best time to visit Canada

Canada boasts four distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences. 

The summer months beckon with warm weather and vibrant festivals, while fall stuns with fiery foliage. Winter in Canada transforms the landscape into a wonderland for skiers and snowboarders, and spring brings a refreshing awakening. 

• June-August: This is peak tourist season, with pleasant temperatures perfect for hiking, camping, and exploring the outdoors. Expect larger crowds and higher prices.
• April-May & September-November: Canada’s shoulder seasons offer a good balance. You’ll experience comfortable temperatures with fewer crowds and potentially lower prices. Spring offers vibrant blooms, while fall boasts stunning foliage.
• December-March: This is prime time for winter sports enthusiasts. Expect cold temperatures and snow-covered landscapes ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating.
• Canada in January 2024: Guide to visiting Canada in winter
• Canada in February: Things to do in Canada in February
• Canada in March: Epic Spring Break Destinations
• Visiting Canada in April: Things to do in Canada in April
• Canada in May: The Complete Guide
• Visiting Canada in June: Is it the best time to visit?
• Canada in July: Summer in the Great White North
• Complete Guide to Visiting Canada in August
• Canada in September: Insider tips for a fall visit
• Canada in October: Experience fall in Canada
• Canada in November: An underrated time to visit
• Canada in December: Fun Things to Do in Canada in Winter

How much money should I travel to Canada with?

Budget travelers should earmark spending around $100-150 CAD per day as a rough estimate. Mid-range travelers might budget $200-300 CAD per day, and luxury travelers might budget CAD 400 or more per day. 

These estimates are flexible and can vary based on your travel plans and preferences. It’s always a good idea to overestimate your budget to account for unforeseen expenses and ensure you have enough funds for a comfortable and enjoyable trip.

General tips for saving money

• Consider shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for cheaper flights and accommodation compared to peak summer.
• Take advantage of free activities like hiking, exploring museums on free admission days, and picnicking in parks.
• Purchase a travel pass for discounted access to public transportation.
• Cook some meals in your hostel or Airbnb to save on restaurant costs.

Getting to Canada: Travel Tips

Canada boasts several major international airports, including Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), Vancouver International Airport (YVR), and Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL). These hubs connect to numerous international destinations and offer easy access to various regions within Canada.

Upon landing, follow signage for international arrivals. You’ll likely go through immigration screening, where an officer will ask questions about your trip and verify your documents.

Be prepared to answer questions about your purpose of visit, length of stay, and onward travel plans.

From the United States of America

• By air: The most efficient way to travel to Canada is to fly from a major city in the United States. Major U.S. cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago offer direct flights to Canadian cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. Many airlines, including Air Canada, WestJet, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines, operate frequent routes between the two countries.
• By car: Road trips are always a delight. If you’re located near the Canadian border, you can drive into Canada. The United States and Canada share one of the longest international land borders in the world, with numerous border crossings. Ensure that you have the necessary documentation, such as a valid passport or enhanced driver’s license, when crossing the border.
• By train: Amtrak operates several routes connecting major U.S. cities to Canada. The Amtrak Cascades route runs from Seattle to Vancouver, while the Adirondack route connects New York City to Montreal. VIA Rail Canada also offers cross-border train services between Canada and the United States.

From the UK

• By air: Flying from the UK is the most convenient way to travel to Canada. Direct flights are available from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, and other major UK airports to Canadian cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary. Air Canada, British Airways, and WestJet operate regular flights between the two countries.
• Land or sea: Traveling overland from the UK to Canada is impractical due to the Atlantic Ocean separating the two regions. However, you can combine land and sea travel by ferrying from the UK to continental Europe (e.g., France) and then flying to Canada from a European airport.

From Europe

• By air: Flying is the most common way to travel to Canada from Europe. Many major European cities, including London, Paris, Frankfurt, and Amsterdam, offer direct flights to Canadian cities such as Toronto , Montreal, and Vancouver . Airlines like Air Canada, Lufthansa, Air France, and KLM operate frequent routes between Europe and Canada.
• By ocean cruise: Some European travelers visit Canada as part of a transatlantic cruise. Cruises from European ports such as Southampton, Hamburg, or Copenhagen may include Canadian Ports of Call such as Halifax, Quebec City, or St. John’s.

Renting a Car in Canada | Canada Trip Planner

The best way to explore Canada’s breathtaking landscapes is by car. Whether you’re dreaming of cruising along the scenic Cabot Trail in Atlantic Canada, exploring the Rocky Mountains, or driving through the vast expanse of the Prairies, renting a car offers you the freedom to discover Canada’s stunning vistas and vibrant cities according to your own itinerary. 

Here’s everything you need to know to ensure a smooth car rental experience in the Great White North.

1. Book Early for the Best Deals

Planning is key when renting a car in Canada, especially during peak seasons like summer and winter holidays.

Early booking can help you secure the best rates and the type of vehicle that best suits your needs, whether it’s a cozy compact for city trips or a sturdy SUV for mountain adventures.

2. Have Your Documents Ready

Ensure you have all necessary documents on hand at the rental desk to avoid any surprises. This includes a valid driver’s license from your country, proof of insurance, and, if required, an international driving permit.

Keep these important documents easily accessible throughout your trip.

3. Opt for Winter Tires in Colder Months

Canadian winters can be harsh, and many provinces have laws requiring winter tires for added safety.

If you’re visiting during the colder months, make sure your rental car is equipped with winter tires. It’s not just about legal compliance; it’s about ensuring your safety on icy and snowy roads.

4. Understand Your Rental Agreement

Before you sign off on your rental car, take the time to read the agreement thoroughly. Pay close attention to all fees, insurance coverage details, and geographical restrictions on where you can take the car. Knowing these details upfront can save you from potential headaches down the road.

5. Go Unlimited on Mileage

Canada is vast, and its beauty lies in its sprawl. Opting for unlimited mileage is a wise choice if you’re planning extensive exploration. This will spare you from worrying about additional charges for exceeding a mileage limit, allowing you to venture freely from coast to coast.

6. Get Acquainted with Canadian Road Rules

Driving in a new country can be daunting. Take the time to familiarize yourself with Canadian road rules and signs, especially if you’re used to driving on the left. Remember, safety comes first!

7. Plan Your Route

With your car keys in hand, freedom awaits—but some planning goes a long way. Plan your routes and rest stops, particularly for lengthy drives. Canada’s natural beauty is unending, and knowing your main stops will help you maximize your experience.

8. Mind the Age Restrictions

The minimum age to rent a car in Canada is 21 years (except in Quebec, where it is 18 years). However, drivers under 25 may face additional fees, so verifying this information with your rental company is crucial.

Bonus Tip: National Park Fees

Exploring Canada’s national parks by car is a highlight for many. Remember, there are fees for entering these parks—whether as an individual adult or a family. Purchasing a Parks Canada Discovery Pass can offer unlimited admission and may be more cost-effective for extensive explorations.

Packing tips for your first time in Canada

Canada experiences 4 distinct seasons, so packing for each is crucial.We have a detailed Canada packing guide here – What to wear in Canada: Ultimate Packing List for Canada .

We have highlighted essential tips below,

• Layers are essential: Layering allows you to adapt to changing weather conditions. This is true all year round (always pack a lightweight jacket and/or scarf with you).
• Neutral colors: Opt for neutral-colored clothing for easy mixing and matching.
• Versatile shoes: Choose shoes that can be worn for various activities. If you plan to hit the trails, hiking shoes and boots are necessary!
• Pack light: If you plan on moving around a lot, consider packing light and doing laundry during your trip. (You can rent ski gear during winter instead of flying it in). Similarly, sunscreen, bug sprays, etc. can be purchased here).
• Carry-on essentials: In case your checked baggage is delayed, pack essentials like medications, a change of clothes, and toiletries in your carry-on.

Where to stay in Canada for first-timers and Explore

For first-time visitors to Canada, choosing where to stay depends on your interests, budget, and the experiences you want to have.

Here are some suggestions for popular destinations:

Toronto, Ontario

Canada’s largest city, offering a vibrant urban experience with diverse neighborhoods, cultural attractions, and excellent dining options.

Visit the CN Tower, explore neighborhoods like Kensington Market and Queen Street West, take a boat tour on Lake Ontario, and enjoy cultural institutions like the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and diverse cultural scene. Explore Stanley Park, visit Granville Island, and stroll along the Seawall. Don’t miss attractions like Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and Grouse Mountain.

Read more: ​​ 39 Vancouver Bucket List Attractions .

Montreal, Quebec

A vibrant city with a blend of European charm and North American dynamism, known for its cultural events, festivals, and culinary scene. 

Explore Old Montreal’s cobblestone streets, visit Notre Dame Basilica, and enjoy French-inspired cuisine. Experience the city’s festivals, such as the Montreal Jazz Festival or Just for Laughs comedy festival.

Banff, Alberta

Located in the Canadian Rockies, offering stunning mountain scenery and outdoor activities year-round. Explore Banff National Park, hike to iconic spots like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, and enjoy outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and wildlife viewing.

Don’t miss the small town of Canmore nearby (it’s one of our favorites!)

Read more: 3 days in Banff Itinerary: 3 days Trip for first-time visitors .

Here are some of the best places to stay in Canada. 

Quebec City, Quebec

Step back within the charming walled city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore historic landmarks like the Citadelle and experience the European flair of Quebec’s capital.

Québec City is like visiting a European country in North America!

St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

This colorful city boasts a rich history and a vibrant culture. Explore Signal Hill National Historic Site, wander through colorful Jellybean Row houses, and visit museums showcasing the province’s unique heritage.

Victoria, British Columbia

This charming city on Vancouver Island offers beautiful gardens, stunning ocean views, and a relaxed atmosphere. Explore the historic Inner Harbour, visit the impressive Butchart Gardens near Victoria , and enjoy fresh seafood.

Read more: 9 Unique Places to Stay in Victoria, BC .

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia’s capital city boasts a historic waterfront district, delicious seafood restaurants, and a lively cultural scene. Explore the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site and take a whale-watching tour in the Bay of Fundy.

Suggested itineraries | Canada road trip and travel guide

Canada’s vastness offers endless possibilities. Here are three itineraries tailored to different interests and travel styles. 

Must-See Cities & Natural Wonders (5 days)

Take a trip anytime from March to May and see some of Canada’s most visited spots. 

• Day 1-2: Arrive and explore Toronto’s highlights, such as the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and Nathan Phillips Square. Enjoy dinner in diverse neighborhoods. On the second day, take a day trip to Niagara Falls , experiencing attractions like Hornblower Niagara Cruises and Clifton Hill before returning to Toronto.
• Day 3-4: Travel to Ottawa. Visit Parliament Hill, explore ByWard Market, and discover museums like the National Gallery of Canada. Take a stroll along the Rideau Canal.
• Day 5: Travel back to Toronto. Spend the afternoon shopping or exploring neighborhoods. Enjoy a farewell dinner at a top restaurant.

City Lights & Cultural Delights (8 Days) Eastern and Western Canada

If you have more time, you can add another popular city to your trip. This itinerary is flexible year-round, with each season offering unique experiences.

• Day 1-3: Fly into Toronto, Ontario. Explore the iconic CN Tower, visit the Royal Ontario Museum, and stroll through the vibrant St. Lawrence Market. Catch a show on Broadway or enjoy the city’s diverse culinary scene.
• Day 4-5: Travel to Ottawa, Canada’s capital city. Explore Parliament Hill, visit the Canadian War Museum, and skate on the Rideau Canal during winter.

• Day 6-7: Fly to Vancouver, British Columbia. Explore Stanley Park, visit the Vancouver Aquarium, and take a scenic ferry ride to Granville Island. Hike in the nearby Capilano Suspension Bridge Park for stunning views.
• Day 8: Fly back from Vancouver.

The Majestic Rockies (10 Days)

Is there anything more magical than a Canadian Rockies road trip? Hike amidst snow-capped peaks, spot wildlife, and soak in the fresh mountain air.

• Day 1-3: Fly into Calgary, Alberta. Explore the city’s museums, visit Calgary Tower for panoramic views, and spend an afternoon at Prince’s Island Park.
• Day 4-6: Drive to Banff National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hike to iconic sights like Moraine Lake, Lake Louise , and Johnston Canyon . Take a gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain for stunning vistas. Go white-water rafting or explore the Bow River by canoe.

• Day 7-8: Continue to Jasper National Park , another gem of the Rockies, via Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic routes in the world. Hike to Maligne Lake, explore the Columbia Icefields , and spot wildlife like elk and bears.
• Day 9: Drive to Lake Louise for a final night, soaking in the mountain scenery.
• Day 10: Fly back from Calgary .

Read more: Epic 10-day Canadian Rockies Itinerary & Road Trip

Enchanting East Coast (12 Days)

Experience Canada’s eastern provinces’ rich history, charming cities, and vibrant fall foliage. September-October offers comfortable temperatures and stunning fall colors.

New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island , Quebec, and Ontario form Eastern Canada. And of that 4 of them are part of the Atlantic provinces region – New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

• Day 1-3: Fly into Montreal, Quebec. Explore the historic walled city, visit the Notre Dame Basilica, and indulge in French Canadian cuisine.
• Day 4-5: Take a day trip to Quebec City, another charming French colonial town. Explore the cobblestone streets, visit the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac hotel, and enjoy a cable car ride for breathtaking views.
• Day 6-7: Travel to the maritime province of Nova Scotia. Explore the vibrant capital city of Halifax, visit the Peggy’s Cove lighthouse, and go whale watching in the Bay of Fundy.
• Day 8-9: Head to Prince Edward Island, known for its beautiful beaches, lighthouses, and rolling hills. Rent a bike and explore the island’s scenic beauty. Sample fresh seafood in Charlottetown , and indulge in local Anne of Green Gables-themed treats.
• Day 10-11: Drive back to Halifax for a final night and enjoy the city’s lively waterfront scene.
• Day 12: Fly back from Halifax.

11 Safety tips for your Canadian trip

Canada welcomes you with open arms and boasts a reputation for safety. Crime rates are low, especially in major cities, and the culture is peaceful. Strict gun control laws contribute to a lower risk of gun violence compared to other countries.

However, a little preparation can go a long way. Following these essential safety tips and using common sense can ensure a worry-free and unforgettable adventure in Canada.

• Like any other destination, be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone at night in deserted places.
• Familiarize yourself with Canada’s emergency number, which is 911.
• Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
• If you’re venturing into natural areas, be aware of wildlife. Research common animals in the area and follow park regulations regarding wildlife encounters. Store food properly to avoid attracting animals to your campsite.
• Be aware of the sun’s intensity, especially at higher altitudes. Apply sunscreen regularly and stay hydrated. If you’re swimming or boating, wear a life jacket and be mindful of water currents.
• Dress warmly in layers during winter and wear proper footwear with good traction to avoid slips and falls on icy surfaces. Be aware of avalanche risks in mountainous areas.
• If you plan on hiking, camping, or participating in any outdoor adventure, research the area beforehand, understand the terrain and weather conditions, and let someone know your itinerary.
• Whenever possible, explore with a companion, especially in remote areas.
• Leave no trace behind and follow all park regulations and campfire safety guidelines.
• Choose reputable accommodations and always lock your room doors and valuables in the safe provided.
• Familiarize yourself with Canadian traffic laws, such as stopping at red lights and yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks. Pay attention to road signs and weather conditions, especially on isolated roads.

Interesting facts about Canada

• Canada boasts the world’s longest coastline , stretching over 202,080 kilometers (125,570 miles), which is longer than the Earth’s circumference at the equator. With three oceans bordering the country (Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic), Canada offers abundant coastal beauty and diverse marine life.
• Did you know Canada produces about 85% of the world’s maple syrup ? The provinces of Quebec and Ontario are the primary producers, and springtime brings on the tradition of “sugaring off,” where maple sap is collected and boiled down into this delicious syrup.

• Beavers play a vital role in the ecosystem, creating dams that provide habitat for various species. This industrious critter is not just adorable; it’s also Canada’s national animal. Their image even graces the Canadian five-dollar bill.
• Canada is officially bilingual , with English and French as the national languages. French is predominantly spoken in the province of Quebec, while English is more common in other regions. This bilingualism reflects Canada’s rich cultural heritage.
• Canada is the world’s second-largest country by total area after Russia. This vastness translates into incredibly diverse landscapes. Canada offers a stunning variety of scenery, from the majestic Rocky Mountains in the west to the flat prairies of the central region and the towering glacial landscapes of the Arctic north.
• If you love lakes, Canada is your heaven. It’s estimated that Canada has over two million lakes , containing about 20% of the world’s freshwater supply. Some of the most famous lakes include Lake Louise, known for its turquoise waters and mountain backdrop, and the Great Lakes, shared with the United States.

• Canada’s far north offers a spectacular light show during the winter months. The aurora borealis, or northern lights, dance across the night sky in vibrant colors. Places like Yukon Territory and Nunavut are prime locations for witnessing this natural phenomenon.

Keen to learn more? We have 100+ Interesting Facts About Canada for you.

Wrapping up the perfect planner for your next Canadian visit

Canada awaits with open arms and boundless beauty.  From the pulse-pounding thrills of the Rockies to the historic charm of Quebec City, every corner promises captivating experiences.

So, book those flights, finalize your itinerary, and get ready to be amazed by the magic of the Great White North! This adventure is yours to take.

Bookmark this guide as a handy reference throughout the planning process. Use it to refresh your memory on visa requirements, delve back into specific city recommendations, or revisit packing tips to ensure you’re prepared for all types of weather.

Don’t be afraid to deviate from the suggested itineraries and explore those quirky destinations that spark your curiosity. Research local festivals or events happening during your travel dates to add an extra layer of excitement.

Once the planning stress is over, why not list which of the 60 Canada Bucket List Items you’re most interested in seeing?

Pin: Canada Travel Guide | Planning a trip to Canada

Mayuri Kashyap is an Indian Canadian traveler, writer and photographer based in Alberta. She moved to Toronto as a student in 2009, and has been calling Canada home ever since. She started the blog - Canada Crossroads - to share her travel and living experiences in the Great White North!

A History graduate and an MBA, Mayuri is a destinations marketing expert. She loves traveling with her husband, Salil and soaking in experiences across Canada, India and Europe.

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The essential guide to visiting Canada

Here’s what you need to know about the world’s second largest country—when to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Why you should visit Canada

The majesty of Niagara Falls and Banff National Park . Champagne powder at British Columbia ski resorts. Dense forests, teal waters. Polar bears and spirit bears and loons. Poutine in Montreal , lobster rolls in Halifax. The most lakes of any country in the world.

Best time to visit Canada

Spring: Whale-watch at Clayoquot Sound (pronounced clack-what) as some 20,000 gray whales migrate past the coast, a UNESCO Biosphere Region. A million tulips bloom in Ottawa as part of a spring festival .

Summer:   This is prime season for canoeing Ontario’s many lakes, driving the glorious Sea-to-Sky Highway   from Vancouver to Whistler, rock-climbing at Squamish, and golfing at a world-renowned seaside course, like Nova Scotia’s Cabot Cliffs or Cabot Links . End of summer sees the stars come out at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF).

Autumn:   Polar bears gather in large numbers in Churchill , Manitoba , waiting for ice to form on Hudson Bay so they can hunt seal. For fall colors, take a boat trip up the Saguenay River, in Quebec.

Winter:   Dogsled, ice-fish, and snowshoe at the Carnaval de Québec winter festival. Ski or snowboard at any of a score of high, steep, powdery ski resorts that populate the west, including Whistler Blackcomb , Kicking Horse , and Revelstoke , the last being one of the snowiest places on Earth. At Whistler, ride the bobsleigh track featured at the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Lay of the land

Cities:   Mountains and ocean sandwich outdoorsy Vancouver.   Lakefront Toronto’s dramatic skyline is interspersed with museums and vibrant ethnic neighborhoods. Sophisticated cobblestoned Montreal is where Canadians go to let their hair down. Colorful houses cling to the rock of St. John’s while icebergs drift offshore. “Any boat ride that has you entering St. John’s Harbour at dusk is a divine experience,” says legendary Newfoundland folk-rock musician Alan Doyle .  

West:   In British Columbia, get lost among the islands of Haida Gwaii,   home to some of the densest, most concentrated coastal temperate rainforest left on Earth. In Desolation Sound,   cultural interpreter and bear guide Klemkwateki (Randy) Louie teaches visitors how to weave with cedar bark and to carve miniature canoe paddles. He also takes guests by boat up the Toba Inlet (Yekwamen), among whales, orcas, seals, and sea lions, to the Klite River to watch grizzly bears in their natural habitat. “I’ve been involved in my Coast Salish teachings for 30 years, singing, drumming, dancing, giving visitors some Klahoose history. We’ve handed this down to the younger generation and to our guests to help with building a connection in working together.”

The 47-mile backcountry West Coast Trail (WCT) crosses beaches studded with flowerpot rock formations, and passes through groves of old-growth trees. Down the Vancouver Island coast is the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail , a shorter but more hilly option. “Both trails zigzag through thick coastal rainforest with lots of muddy sections and ladders to help you up and down the steep slopes,” says Taryn Eyton, founder of HappiestOutdoors.ca .

North:   In the Northwest Territories (NWT), paddle the Nahanni River through Canada’s deepest river canyons, along rapids, and past Virginia Falls, nearly twice the height of Niagara. NWT is also where you can canoe and swim in enormous Great Slave Lake and spot the northern lights , visible here 240 nights per year.  

Prairie provinces:   Elk Island National Park , in Alberta , is home to bison, elk, and more than 250 bird species. Nearby on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, Métis Crossing features a cultural center, historic exhibits, and dome accommodations with transparent ceilings for night-sky viewing. In early fall, Jasper National Park holds a Dark Sky festival with family-friendly events like night hikes.

Fly in by floatplane to lodges in Saskatchewan or Manitoba for trophy catches of northern pike, walleye, and lake trout. “Since there’s very little fishing pressure, the fish are typically giants, and more than willing to hit just about any lure you show them,” says Patrick Walsh, editor of Outdoor Canada   magazine.  

Ontario:   Charter a boat and cruise the 120 miles from the capital Ottawa down the 19 th- century Rideau Canal (the oldest continuously operated canal system in North America), through a series of lakes, locks, and rivers. Drive west alongside Lake Ontario to Prince Edward County , one of the hottest vacation spots in Canada, known for its wineries, food, hip hotels, and historic small towns like Wellington and Picton. Climb the immense sand dunes of Sandbanks Provincial Park, the largest freshwater barrier beach and dune system in the world. Continuing west along the lake, a new Canadian Canoe Museum opened in Peterborough in May 2024.

Quebec:   Montreal comes alive in summer with a series of events, such as the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal . In compact, French-speaking Quebec City, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were in a charming town in northern France. Off the beaten path, drive the Gaspé peninsula, encompassing four national parks and iconic offshore limestone formation Percé. Stop in at the International Garden Festival at Grand-Métis, Quebec.

Atlantic Canada:   A magical place of mountains and verdant coastline, Gros Morne National Park,   in Newfoundland , is one of the few places where you can stroll atop the Earth’s mantle , exposed when two continental plates collided. Visitors can hike to the top of Western Brook Pond fjord for an iconic view , or board a boat . The oldest known European settlement in North America—beating Columbus by centuries—is at L'Anse aux Meadows . Windswept homes of timber, peat, and sod, the Viking site lay undiscovered until 1960.

At the Cliffs of Fundy UNESCO Geopark in Nova Scotia   marvel at the world’s highest tides in action.  

Cape Breton Island is home to one of the world’s great drives, the 185-mile Cabot Trail. A few hardy types bike the steep winding hills. Offshore, visitors whale-watch or fish enormous bluefin tuna.

Getting around Canada

By plane:   Leading carrier Air Canada has more than 900 flights daily. Floatplanes operated by small companies connect remote locations. U.S.-bound passengers can pre-clear U.S. customs and immigration at nine Canadian airports.  

B y train:   Rail is the time-honored way to see Canada, and operators run specialized services for tourists, like Rocky Mountaineer’s deluxe routes from Vancouver through the Canadian Rockies to Banff or Jasper. Regular train service by Via runs a limited number of routes.

By bus:   Intercity bus service has declined across Canada.

By car:   A car is essential for moving about within regions of Canada, but some top tourist spots—like Churchill for polar bears—are accessible only by plane or train.

By boat:   Bounded by three oceans and with an abundance of lakes and rivers, a cruise or boat trip is a great way to see the country.

Know before you go

Cultural heritage:   Native rights and the debts owed by settlers have become front and center in the public discourse, with land acknowledgements , which originated in Canada, now standard practice. Canada’s newest (1999) territory, Nunavut , is governed by the Inuit , and Torngat Mountains National Park , on the northern tip of Labrador, is owned and managed by the Inuit, the first of its kind.

The transcontinental railway helped establish Canada as a nation, but at the same time pushed aside Indigenous peoples and their rights. Blasting through the Canadian Rockies, untold numbers of imported Chinese workers died and were buried by their fellow countrymen, often in unmarked graves.

Canada became a self-governing dominion in 1867, but when Great Britain declared war in 1914 Canada automatically joined too as it did not yet control its own foreign affairs. Canada gained legislative independence from Britain in 1931, an official flag of its own only in 1965, and constitutional independence from the U.K. as recently as 1982.

Hours: Bars in Canadian cities typically stay open until 2 a.m. Drinking age is 18 or 19, depending on province or territory, while some remote northern communities place restrictions on alcohol use. Marijuana is legal for both recreational and medicinal uses.

LGBTQ+:   Canada is consistently ranked the world’s best country for LGBTQ+ rights and safety of travelers. The country legalized same-sex marriage in 2005—at the time only the fourth country in the world to do so. Pride Toronto (June) is one of the largest organized gay pride festivals in the world.

How to visit Canada sustainably

Greenpeace was founded in Canada and today the country ranks a respectable 14 th out of 76 countries on the Green Future Index . Keep your distance from wildlife. Bring your own reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and toiletries. Put all garbage and recyclables into designated bins. Support Indigenous peoples by taking guided walks and visiting Indigenous art galleries.

What to read and watch

Anne of Green Gables , by Lucy Maud Montgomery. This globally loved 1908 children’s book set on Prince Edward Island was adapted most recently into a Netflix series. November 30, 2024, will mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Montgomery.

Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands , by Kate Beaton. This autobiographical comic from Cape Breton’s Kate Beaton recounts her experience as one of the few women working in the rough-and-tumble oil patch of northern Alberta. Beaton’s story also captures the never-ending tale of Canadians from the Atlantic provinces migrating westward for work.

The Inconvenient Indian: A Curious Account of Native People in North America , by Thomas King. This history of Indigenous peoples in North America has been turned into a 2020 documentary .

The Sleeping Car Porter ,   by Suzette Mayr. The award-winning 2022 novel focuses on a 1920s Black closeted gay Canadian working as a railway porter to save money to attend dental school.

The Hockey Sweater , by Roch Carrier. This 1979 short story about a Quebec boy who receives a hated Toronto Maple Leafs jersey in error has been an enduring favorite of Canadians, managing to capture the importance of both hockey and winter to Canadian children, and also serving as an explainer of relations between English and French Canada.

Schitt’s Creek.   The pandemic’s surprise hit series was written by and stars Canadians, and more than anything has a gentle, Canadian-defining vibe to it. If these characters are your people, you’ll feel at home in Canada.

Kim’s Convenience.   Written by Ins Choi, this sitcom about a Korean-Canadian family who own a corner store in downtown Toronto captures the intimate feel of the city’s many ethnic neighborhoods, as well as the common multi-generational immigrant experience in one of the world’s most international metropolises.

( For more tips on what to do in Canada, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES
• NATIONAL PARKS
• DOG SLEDDING

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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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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.

Popular City Guides

• Quebec City

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Table of contents

Table of Contents

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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Your guide to the best places to visit in Canada: urban adventures and wild escapes

Sep 9, 2024 • 9 min read

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

Canada captivates visitors with its wildlife, wilderness, and vibrant cultural offerings. Spot polar bears, cruise Vancouver’s coastline, savor Toronto’s cuisine , or enjoy Montréal's music scene.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to experience something new, these are the best places to visit 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 mix of cultures and neighborhoods , Toronto strikes you with sheer urban awe. Dine in Chinatown, visit Greektown, or enjoy five-star fusion. Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods, art galleries, theaters and hockey mania make it Ontario’s coolest city. Toronto is also Canada’s most diverse city – nearly half of its residents were born abroad.

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 loop around the tower’s perimeter while taking in unparalleled city views.

2. Niagara Falls

Best for an iconic travel experience

The #1 tourist attraction in Canada is Niagara Falls , known for its stunning and powerful waterfalls. Board the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour, where you’ll feel the thunderous spray up close. Hikers will enjoy the Niagara Glen hiking trail through ancient forests and rugged terrain, offering a peaceful contrast to the roaring waters.

Extend your stay with a scenic biking adventure along the Greater Niagara Circle Route or soar to new heights with the Wildplay Zipline , which offers unmatched views of the falls.

3. Manitoulin Island

Best for Canada’s First Nations culture

The largest freshwater island in the world, Manitoulin has a slower pace with its summery cottages and lakeside beaches. Jagged expanses of white quartzite and granite outcroppings edge the shoreline and lead to shimmering vistas. First Nations culture thrives, with local foods and eco-adventures offered by the island’s eight communities. 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. Rideau Canal

Best for ice skating

Opened in 1832, this 200 km-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.

British Columbia

5. 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.

Pack a picnic and enjoy the (legally allowed) summer park drinking . Shop and stroll through the diverse and charming neighborhoods – you may even spot a celebrity. 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.

6. Vancouver Island

Best for nature, surf beaches and boutique food ventures

Picture-postcard Victoria is the heart of Vancouver Island , 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.

Pacific Rim National Park ’s West Coast Trail offers misty wilderness and Tofino’s waves. With countless outdoor adventures to enjoy, this is a favorite among Canada’s national parks for nature lovers.  

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

7. Whistler 

Best for skiing, mountain biking or summer paddle-boarding

A 2010 Winter Olympics venue, Whistler is one of the world’s top ski resorts, located just 90 minutes from Vancouver. Featuring over 200 marked runs winding down two towering mountains – Whistler and Blackcomb – this alpine village is a skier’s paradise.

Skiing is Whistler’s main draw, but summer visitors with bikes and paddleboards make it a year-round hot spot. 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. The Canadian Rockies 

Best for mountain views

Known as the prettiest place to visit in Canada, the Canadian Rockies straddle British Columbia and Alberta and offer awe-inspiring adventures across five national parks. Try hiking , whitewater rafting, and skiing.

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.

9. 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-related attractions, enjoy classic Badlands scenery including the eerie “hoodoos,” or craggy spires of rock.

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

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

10. Old Québec City

Best place to visit in Canada for romantics

Québec’s capital , with over 400 years of history, is a treasure trove of romance and charm. Its stone walls, spired cathedrals, and jazz-filled cafes create an atmosphere reminiscent of the most enchanting European cities. Wander through the narrow, winding streets of the old town, where you can lose yourself amid street performers, cozy inns, and the irresistible aroma of café au lait and flaky pastries.

For those looking to explore beyond the city, consider taking a scenic drive along Québec’s Rte 132, which winds past the sea , mountains and charming towns, offering breathtaking views and a taste of the region's natural beauty.

11. 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, Montreal’s parks, beaches, and festivals come alive with lively rooftop bars and arts-filled streets. 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). Want more? Discover more things to do in Montreal to make the most of your visit.

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

Prairies (Manitoba, Saskatchewan)

12. the prairies.

Best for big-sky road trips

Solitude reigns in Canada’s middle ground. Drive through Manitoba’s vast landscapes and Saskatchewan’s endless fields of golden wheat, which melt into the horizon. 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.

13. 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 take you close enough to lock eyes with polar bears. Summer lets you kayak or stand-up paddleboard with beluga whales.

Atlantic Canada

14. 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. The Bay of Fundy’s extreme tides attract whales, including fin, humpback and endangered North Atlantic right whales, making it a must-visit spot for whale watching. For more maritime travel inspiration, check out the best places to visit in Nova Scotia.

Northern Canada

15. 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. Canada’s largest island is perfect for an arctic safari to spot narwhals, belugas and bears. 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.

Keep planning your trip to Canada:

Find out how to see Canada by train and by road . 

Discover the best time to visit and the top things to do in Canada . 

Learn how to get around Canada and travel throughout Canada on a budget .

Get more information on the visa requirements to visit Canada .

This article was first published Jul 11, 2021 and updated Sep 9, 2024.

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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

The ultimate guide to driving the icefields parkway (2024 guide), 7 awesome day trips from montreal (2024 guide), 17 amazing things to do in jasper, ab (2024 epic guide), 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), the perfect 3 days in montreal itinerary, the 10 best day trips from toronto.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations

The Ultimate Canada Travel Guide

Published: October 12, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Fanechka Mckinney

• Plan Your Trip

Introduction

Welcome to the Great White North! Canada, with its vast landscapes, diverse culture, and enchanting beauty, is a dream destination for travelers around the world. From the cosmopolitan cities of Toronto and Vancouver to the breathtaking wilderness of the Rocky Mountains, Canada offers a wealth of experiences that will leave you in awe.

As the second-largest country in the world, Canada is home to a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions. Whether you’re exploring the charming streets of Quebec City, venturing into the untamed wilderness of the Yukon, or immersing yourself in the vibrant arts scene of Vancouver, there is something for everyone in this diverse and welcoming country.

Not only does Canada boast stunning natural beauty, but it also offers a wide range of activities and attractions. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history enthusiast, a food lover, or a nature enthusiast, Canada has it all.

In this comprehensive Canada travel guide, we will cover everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip. From the best time to visit and visa requirements to transportation options and must-visit cities, we will provide you with all the essential information to make your Canadian adventure a memorable one.

So, grab your maple syrup and get ready to explore the wonders of Canada. Let’s dive into the heart of this captivating country and discover the magic that awaits you.

Overview of Canada

Located in North America, Canada is a country that stretches from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west and extends northward into the Arctic Ocean. With a population of over 37 million people, Canada is known for its vast and diverse landscapes, including rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and dense forests.

Canada is made up of ten provinces and three territories, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. From the vibrant and multicultural cities of Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver to the charming coastal towns of Halifax and Victoria, there is a wide range of destinations to explore.

One of the most distinctive features of Canada is its multiculturalism. The country is known for its open and inclusive society, welcoming people from all around the globe. This diversity is reflected in the cuisine, languages, and customs found throughout the country.

When it comes to natural beauty, Canada is truly unmatched. From the soaring peaks of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta and British Columbia to the stunning coastline of the Atlantic provinces, there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking, skiing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the breathtaking views, Canada has something for every nature lover.

In addition to its natural wonders, Canada is also home to vibrant arts and cultural scenes. From world-class museums and art galleries to live music festivals and theater performances, there are countless ways to immerse yourself in Canadian culture.

Overall, Canada offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Whether you’re exploring the bustling city streets, embarking on a wilderness adventure, or indulging in local delicacies, you’ll be captivated by the beauty, warmth, and diversity that Canada has to offer.

Best Time to Visit Canada

Canada experiences diverse climates throughout its expansive territory, so the best time to visit depends on the specific region you plan to explore. Generally, the peak tourist season in Canada is during the summer months of June to August. During this time, you can expect mild to warm temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the country’s natural beauty.

In the eastern provinces, such as Ontario, Quebec, and the Atlantic provinces, summer is the perfect time to visit. You can enjoy pleasant temperatures, vibrant festivals, and opportunities to explore the stunning coastline and charming cities.

If you’re planning to visit the western provinces, including British Columbia and Alberta, summer is also a popular time. This is when you can experience the picturesque landscapes of the Canadian Rockies, go hiking, and enjoy outdoor adventures amidst breathtaking scenery.

However, it’s important to note that summer is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit Canada. Accommodation and flights may be pricier, and popular attractions can be crowded. If you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to October).

During spring, you can witness the awakening of nature, with blooming flowers and melting snow creating a picturesque backdrop. Fall, on the other hand, offers stunning foliage as the leaves change colors, creating a breathtaking landscape.

If you’re a winter enthusiast, Canada has a lot to offer during the colder months. The provinces of Quebec and Alberta are renowned for their winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating. The winter months of December to February offer a magical winter wonderland experience, but be prepared for colder temperatures and shorter days.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Canada depends on your preferences, the activities you wish to partake in, and the specific regions you want to explore. Whether you’re seeking vibrant festivals, outdoor adventures, or a serene winter getaway, Canada has something to offer throughout the year.

Visa Requirements

Before planning your trip to Canada, it’s essential to understand the visa requirements based on your nationality. Canada has specific visa regulations, and it’s crucial to ensure you have the necessary documentation in place to enter the country legally.

For many countries, including the United States, citizens do not require a visa to enter Canada for tourism or business purposes. Instead, they will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or show their valid passport at the Canadian border.

However, citizens of other countries may be required to obtain a visa before their trip to Canada. The type of visa will depend on the purpose of your visit, such as tourism, business, or study. It’s important to check the official website of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to determine if you require a visa and the specific application process.

When applying for a visa, you will need to provide various documents, including a valid passport, proof of financial means to support your stay, return flight tickets, and possibly a letter of invitation or accommodation details. It’s essential to apply for your visa well in advance to allow for processing time, as it can take several weeks or even months.

It’s worth mentioning that Canada has strict entry requirements, and it’s important to comply with their regulations. Failure to do so may result in being denied entry into the country.

If you are unsure about the specific visa requirements or need assistance with the application process, it’s advisable to consult with the nearest Canadian embassy or consulate in your country.

Remember, visa requirements can vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. It’s crucial to research and understand the specific requirements well in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into Canada.

Transportation in Canada

Canada offers a variety of transportation options to help you navigate the vast and diverse country. Whether you’re traveling within cities, venturing across provinces, or exploring remote wilderness areas, there are several convenient and efficient ways to get around.

1. Domestic Flights: Given the vastness of Canada, domestic flights are a popular choice for traveling long distances. Major cities and regional hubs are well-connected by various airlines, making it easy to reach different parts of the country quickly.

2. Train Travel: Canada is renowned for its scenic train routes, offering breathtaking views of the country’s landscapes. The iconic Rocky Mountaineer, for example, takes you through the stunning Canadian Rockies, while VIA Rail provides extensive train services across the country.

3. Car Rental: Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, especially in more remote areas or when visiting national parks. Canada has an extensive road network, and driving allows you to discover hidden gems and scenic routes.

4. Public Transportation: Major cities in Canada have well-developed public transportation systems, including buses, subways, and light rail. This is a convenient and affordable option for getting around urban areas and accessing popular tourist attractions.

5. Intercity Buses: If you’re traveling between cities or smaller towns, intercity bus services are available. Companies like Greyhound and Megabus offer connections between various destinations, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious travelers.

6. Ferries: With its extensive coastline and numerous islands, Canada also offers ferry services. This is a popular mode of transportation, particularly in coastal regions like British Columbia, Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia.

It’s important to note that transportation options may vary depending on the region and the remoteness of your destination. In more remote or northern areas, air travel or car rental may be the most practical choice. Planning ahead and researching transportation options specific to your itinerary will help ensure a smooth and efficient journey.

Additionally, keep in mind that Canada is a vast country, and travel times can be longer than expected. It’s essential to account for distances and plan your itinerary accordingly, allowing for ample time to explore and enjoy the journey.

Whichever mode of transportation you choose, traveling in Canada can be a rewarding experience, as it allows you to witness the country’s breathtaking landscapes and immerse yourself in its unique charm.

Accommodation Options

When it comes to finding accommodation in Canada, you’ll have a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for luxurious hotels, cozy bed and breakfasts, or budget-friendly hostels, Canada has something to offer for every traveler.

1. Hotels and Resorts: From world-class luxury hotels to charming boutique properties, Canada boasts a diverse range of accommodations. Major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal offer a plethora of options to choose from, ranging from international hotel chains to unique boutique establishments.

2. Bed and Breakfasts: If you’re seeking a more intimate and personalized experience, consider staying at a bed and breakfast. These charming accommodations are often hosted by local residents and offer a cozy and homely atmosphere.

3. Vacation Rentals: With the popularity of platforms like Airbnb and VRBO, vacation rentals have become a popular choice among travelers. Renting an apartment or a house allows you to have more space and live like a local, particularly if you’re planning an extended stay.

4. Hostels and Budget Accommodations: For budget-conscious travelers or those looking to connect with fellow backpackers, hostels are an excellent option. These budget accommodations offer shared dormitory-style rooms or private rooms at affordable prices. This is a great way to meet other travelers and exchange tips and stories.

5. Campgrounds and RV Parks: Canada’s expansive wilderness and stunning national parks provide an opportunity for camping enthusiasts. There are numerous campgrounds and RV parks available throughout the country, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the great outdoors.

When choosing your accommodation, consider factors such as location, amenities, and proximity to attractions or transportation. It’s also recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or for popular tourist destinations.

Lastly, don’t forget to read reviews and do thorough research to ensure the accommodation meets your expectations. Websites such as TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and Expedia can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.

Whether you prefer luxurious hotels, cozy bed and breakfasts, or budget-friendly options, Canada offers a wide range of accommodation choices to make your stay comfortable and memorable.

Canadian Cuisine

Canadian cuisine is a delightful fusion of diverse culinary traditions influenced by Indigenous peoples, French and British settlers, and immigrant communities from around the world. Exploring Canadian cuisine is an opportunity to indulge in unique flavors and regional specialties that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

1. Poutine: One of Canada’s most famous dishes, poutine, consists of crispy French fries smothered in rich gravy and topped with fresh cheese curds. This indulgent comfort food is a must-try, especially in the province of Quebec where it originated.

2. Maple Syrup: Canada is known for its world-renowned maple syrup production. Whether used as a topping for pancakes, drizzled over roasted meats, or incorporated into various desserts, Canadian maple syrup adds a distinct sweet and earthy flavor to dishes.

3. Nanaimo Bars: Named after the city of Nanaimo in British Columbia, these delectable no-bake dessert bars consist of a chocolatey base, a layer of creamy custard, and a topping of smooth chocolate ganache. They are a popular sweet treat enjoyed throughout Canada.

4. Butter Tarts: Hailing from Ontario, butter tarts are a beloved Canadian pastry. These small, sweet pastries are filled with a gooey and buttery caramelized mixture, often with the addition of raisins or chopped nuts.

5. Peameal Bacon: Originating in Toronto, peameal bacon is a Canadian specialty. It consists of pork loin rolled in cornmeal, creating a crispy crust when cooked. It is often served on a bun and enjoyed as a classic breakfast sandwich.

6. Seafood: With coastlines bordering the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic Oceans, Canada is known for its incredible seafood. From fresh Atlantic lobster and succulent scallops to Pacific salmon and savory smoked salmon, seafood lovers will find plenty to satisfy their cravings.

7. Tourtière: This traditional savory pie is a staple in French-Canadian cuisine. It is typically made with a flaky crust and filled with a mixture of ground meats, such as beef, veal, or pork, along with seasonings and spices.

8. Canadian Whisky: Canada is renowned for its production of high-quality whisky. Canadian whisky is known for its smoothness and often has a slightly sweeter flavor profile compared to other whiskies, making it a popular choice for whiskey enthusiasts.

These are just a few highlights of Canadian cuisine, but there is much more to explore. Each region of Canada has its own unique culinary specialties, influenced by the local produce and cultural influences. From fresh seafood on the coasts to rich and hearty dishes in the prairies, Canadian cuisine is diverse, delicious, and constantly evolving.

Must-Visit Cities in Canada

Canada is home to numerous vibrant and culturally rich cities, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. From the bustling metropolis of Toronto to the historic streets of Quebec City, here are some must-visit cities in Canada that should be on every traveler’s itinerary:

1. Toronto, Ontario: As Canada’s largest city, Toronto is a diverse and dynamic metropolis known for its iconic landmarks such as the CN Tower, bustling markets like St. Lawrence Market, world-class museums like the Royal Ontario Museum, and vibrant neighborhoods like Kensington Market and Queen West.

2. Vancouver, British Columbia: Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the stunning mountains, Vancouver offers a beautiful mix of urban living and outdoor adventures. Explore the picturesque Stanley Park, experience the vibrant culinary scene in Gastown, visit Granville Island’s bustling public market, and enjoy stunning views from Grouse Mountain.

3. Montreal, Quebec: Montreal, a city with a rich history and European charm, is renowned for its vibrant festivals, world-class dining scene, and stunning architecture. Explore the historic district of Old Montreal, visit the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, and indulge in the city’s famous bagels and poutine.

4. Calgary, Alberta: Situated near the Canadian Rockies, Calgary offers a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventure. Visit the Calgary Stampede, explore the vibrant Stephen Avenue Walk, and take in breathtaking views from the iconic Calgary Tower.

5. Quebec City, Quebec: The charming and historic Quebec City is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its cobblestone streets, impressive fortifications, and French flair. Visit the iconic Château Frontenac, explore the quaint streets of Old Quebec, and indulge in French-inspired cuisine.

6. Halifax, Nova Scotia: Halifax offers a mix of Maritime charm, rich history, and stunning coastline. Explore the historic waterfront, visit the fascinating Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, and try fresh seafood at the iconic Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market.

7. Ottawa, Ontario: Canada’s capital city, Ottawa, is home to iconic landmarks such as Parliament Hill, Rideau Canal, and the National Gallery of Canada. Explore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, and visit during the stunning display of tulips during the Canadian Tulip Festival.

These cities are just a snapshot of the diverse experiences Canada has to offer. Each city has its own unique flavor, culture, and attractions, showcasing the rich tapestry of Canadian life. So, whether you’re looking for bustling city vibes, historic charm, or natural beauty, these must-visit cities will captivate you with their distinct character and allure.

Outdoor Activities in Canada

Canada is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide array of thrilling activities amidst its breathtaking landscapes. From exploring pristine national parks to embarking on thrilling adventures, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors of Canada.

Here are some of the top outdoor activities to experience in Canada:

1. Hiking and Camping: Canada boasts an extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks. Whether you’re hiking through the Canadian Rockies in Banff and Jasper National Parks or exploring the rugged coastlines of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, you can revel in the beauty of nature.

2. Skiing and Snowboarding: With its renowned winter resorts, Canada offers world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Banff Sunshine Village in Alberta, and Mont-Tremblant in Quebec are just a few examples of top-notch ski destinations.

3. Wildlife Watching: Canada is home to diverse and abundant wildlife, including bears, moose, whales, and bald eagles. Take a wildlife safari in places like Churchill, Manitoba, to spot polar bears or go on a whale-watching excursion off the coast of Vancouver Island.

4. Kayaking and Canoeing: Canada’s countless lakes, rivers, and coastlines offer fantastic opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. Paddle through the stunning waters of the Bowron Lakes in British Columbia or explore the tranquil beauty of Algonquin Provincial Park in Ontario.

5. Fishing: With its vast network of rivers, lakes, and coastal waters, Canada is a fishing enthusiast’s paradise. Cast a line and try your luck at catching salmon, trout, or the famous Atlantic Cod off the coasts of Newfoundland and Labrador.

6. Whale Watching: Along the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, Canada offers incredible opportunities for whale watching. Take a boat tour and spot majestic marine creatures like humpback whales, killer whales, and belugas as they migrate through Canadian waters.

7. Dog Sledding: Experience the thrill of mushing through the snowy wilderness on a dog sled. Northern destinations like Yukon Territory and Nunavut offer the chance to learn about this traditional mode of transport and interact with friendly sled dogs.

8. Rafting and Kayaking: For adrenaline junkies, Canada’s rivers provide thrilling whitewater rafting and kayaking experiences. Tackle the rapids of the Ottawa River in Ontario or the Kicking Horse River in British Columbia for an exhilarating adventure.

These are just a few examples of the outdoor activities Canada has to offer. With its diverse landscapes and pristine wilderness, Canada provides endless opportunities to explore, connect with nature, and challenge yourself. So, why not embrace the great outdoors and create unforgettable memories in this adventure playground?

Cultural Experiences in Canada

Canada is a melting pot of cultures, and experiencing its rich cultural heritage is a highlight of any visit. From indigenous traditions to diverse immigrant communities, Canada offers a wide range of cultural experiences that are sure to inspire and captivate travelers.

1. Indigenous Cultures: Canada is home to numerous indigenous communities, each with their own unique traditions, languages, and belief systems. Visitors can immerse themselves in indigenous culture by attending powwows, participating in traditional ceremonies, visiting cultural centers, and learning about the rich history and contributions of Canada’s first peoples.

2. Festivals and Celebrations: Canada is known for its vibrant festivals and celebrations throughout the year. The Calgary Stampede in Alberta showcases the rich cowboy culture, the Montreal International Jazz Festival brings world-class musicians to the stage, and Winterlude in Ottawa celebrates the joys of winter with ice sculptures and outdoor activities.

3. Museums and Art Galleries: Canada is home to world-class museums and art galleries that exhibit a wide range of artistic and cultural treasures. The Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa, and the Museum of Anthropology in Vancouver are just a few examples of the many institutions that allow visitors to delve into Canada’s diverse cultural heritage.

4. Culinary Experiences: Canadian cuisine is a reflection of its multicultural population, offering a variety of culinary experiences. Sample Quebec’s famous poutine, indulge in fresh seafood in the Maritime provinces, try diverse ethnic cuisines in multicultural cities like Toronto and Vancouver, and savor the flavors of traditional indigenous foods.

5. Historic Sites and Heritage Buildings: Canada has a rich history, and exploring its historic sites and heritage buildings can give you a glimpse into the country’s past. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Quebec, explore the fascinating Fortress of Louisbourg in Nova Scotia, or wander through the historic neighborhoods of St. John’s in Newfoundland and Labrador.

6. Performing Arts: Canada boasts a vibrant performing arts scene with numerous theaters and music venues throughout the country. Enjoy a theatrical performance in Toronto’s theater district, attend a live music concert in Montreal, or experience the acrobatic feats of Cirque du Soleil, a renowned Canadian performing arts company.

These cultural experiences allow visitors to connect with Canada’s diverse heritage, learn about its history, and appreciate the contributions of its vibrant communities. From traditional ceremonies to contemporary arts, Canada offers a kaleidoscope of cultural experiences that will leave a lasting impression.

Wildlife and National Parks in Canada

Canada is blessed with incredible biodiversity and vast expanses of unspoiled wilderness, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. From majestic bears and elusive moose to diverse bird species and marine life, Canada’s wildlife is abundant and diverse.

1. National Parks: Canada is home to over 40 national parks and reserves, each offering unique ecosystems and stunning landscapes. Banff National Park in Alberta, Jasper National Park in Alberta and British Columbia, and Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Nova Scotia are just a few examples of the breathtaking natural wonders waiting to be explored.

2. Bear Watching: Canada provides incredible opportunities to observe bears in their natural habitats. From the polar bears of Manitoba’s Churchill region to the grizzly bears of British Columbia, witnessing these majestic creatures is an awe-inspiring experience.

3. Bird Watching: Canada’s diverse habitats serve as havens for avian enthusiasts. The Point Pelee National Park in Ontario and the Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve in Newfoundland and Labrador are renowned birding hotspots, attracting a range of species, including puffins, bald eagles, and warblers.

4. Marine Life: Canada’s vast coastlines offer an abundance of marine wildlife. Take a whale-watching tour in Quebec’s Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park to spot belugas and blue whales, or visit the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick to witness the highest tides in the world and spot seals and shorebirds.

5. Polar Bears: Churchill, Manitoba is known as the polar bear capital of the world. Traveling to this remote destination allows visitors to embark on guided tours to witness polar bears in their natural habitat, an experience that is truly unforgettable.

6. Wildlife Safaris: Numerous wildlife safaris are available across Canada, offering the opportunity to see a wide range of animals. From the annual caribou migration in Nunavut to the bison herds of Grasslands National Park in Saskatchewan, these safaris allow visitors to be immersed in the wonders of Canada’s wildlife.

Visiting Canada’s national parks provides an opportunity to witness the country’s extraordinary wildlife and explore the pristine wilderness. It’s important to remember that these are wild animals, and respecting their habitat and safety guidelines is crucial for both their well-being and your own.

So, grab your binoculars, pack your camera, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable wildlife adventure in the stunning national parks and wilderness areas of Canada.

Shopping in Canada

Shopping in Canada offers a delightful blend of modern retail experiences and unique local finds. From bustling malls to charming boutiques and vibrant markets, there are plenty of options for retail therapy and shopping for souvenirs.

1. Shopping Districts: Major cities in Canada boast vibrant shopping districts where you can find a wide range of stores. In Toronto, the Eaton Centre and Yorkville offer a mix of high-end designer brands and popular retailers. Vancouver’s Robson Street is known for its trendy boutiques and local fashion labels, while Montreal’s Sainte-Catherine Street offers a variety of shops, from major brands to local artisans.

2. Local Markets: Canada is home to numerous farmers’ markets, artisanal markets, and flea markets where you can discover unique local products. The St. Lawrence Market in Toronto is a popular destination for fresh produce and gourmet food. Granville Island Public Market in Vancouver is renowned for its arts and crafts, fresh seafood, and local produce.

3. Indigenous Art and Crafts: Indigenous art and crafts hold a significant place in Canadian culture. Many cities have galleries and shops dedicated to showcasing and selling traditional indigenous artwork, jewelry, and crafts. These establishments offer an opportunity to learn about indigenous culture and support local artisans.

4. Duty-Free Shopping: If you are traveling to or from Canada, take advantage of duty-free shopping at airports and border crossings. This is an excellent opportunity to purchase items such as designer goods, cosmetics, and alcohol at tax-free prices.

5. Canadian Fashion and Designers: Canada has a thriving fashion and design scene. Explore local boutiques and department stores to discover Canadian fashion brands and designers, who often draw inspiration from the country’s landscapes, heritage, and multiculturalism.

6. Canadian Souvenirs: When in Canada, don’t forget to pick up some memorable souvenirs. Look for items such as maple syrup, Canadian-themed clothing and accessories, indigenous artwork, locally produced food products, and iconic symbols like the maple leaf or the Mountie.

It’s important to note that tax rates may vary across provinces, so factor in applicable taxes when making purchases. Keep receipts for potential tax refunds for eligible purchases made by non-residents.

Whether you’re seeking high-end fashion, unique artisanal products, or Canadian-themed souvenirs, shopping in Canada is an enjoyable and diverse experience. So, grab your shopping bags and explore the various retail offerings that this vibrant country has to offer.

Safety Tips for Traveling in Canada

Canada is generally a safe country for travelers, but it’s still important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Here are some safety tips to ensure a smooth and secure trip:

1. Be Prepared for Weather: Canada is known for its diverse and sometimes extreme weather conditions. Pack appropriate clothing and gear for the season and location you will be visiting. Be prepared for cold temperatures in winter and hot temperatures in summer, as well as sudden changes in weather.

2. Take Precautions in Wildlife Areas: When exploring Canada’s national parks and wilderness areas, it’s important to respect wildlife and follow park regulations. Keep a safe distance from wild animals, do not feed or approach them, and always secure your food to avoid attracting wildlife.

3. Take Precautions in Urban Areas: While Canada’s cities are generally safe, it’s wise to take basic precautions, especially in crowded areas or at night. Keep your belongings secure, be cautious of your surroundings, and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas.

4. Stay Hydrated and Use Sun Protection: Canada’s large geographic range means that the sun’s intensity can vary greatly. Whether you’re exploring the mountains, coastlines, or urban areas, make sure to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and protect yourself from sunburn.

5. Stay Informed about Road Conditions: If you’re planning a road trip or driving in Canada, stay updated on road conditions and check weather forecasts, especially in winter. Be prepared for possible snowstorms and icy roads, and consider renting a vehicle suitable for the terrain and weather conditions.

6. Use Trusted Transportation Services: When using public transportation or rideshare services, ensure you use trusted and reputable companies. Use licensed taxis or well-known ride-hailing services to ensure your safety and avoid potential scams.

7. Secure Your Belongings: Keep your personal belongings secure at all times, especially in crowded tourist areas. Be cautious of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuable items or carrying large sums of cash. Use hotel safes and carry only essentials when exploring.

8. Purchase Travel Insurance: It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. Ensure that your insurance policy is suitable for your needs and activities during your trip.

Remember, safety is a priority while traveling in any country. By being prepared, using common sense, and staying aware of your surroundings, you can have a safe and memorable visit to Canada.

Canada is a country that captivates with its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse culture. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the pristine coastlines, the Great White North offers a wealth of experiences for travelers of all interests.

In this comprehensive Canada travel guide, we have covered various aspects of planning your trip, from the best time to visit and visa requirements to transportation options and top attractions. We took a deep dive into Canadian cuisine, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, wildlife, shopping, and safety tips.

Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Toronto, immersing yourself in the rich history of Quebec City, or seeking adventure in the breathtaking national parks, Canada offers something for every traveler. You can indulge in delicious culinary delights, witness incredible wildlife, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Canadian people.

As you embark on your Canadian adventure, remember to embrace the diverse and inclusive nature of the country, respecting the indigenous cultures and natural environment. Connect with nature, immerse yourself in the local culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

So, pack your bags, prepare your itinerary, and get ready to explore the wonders of Canada. From the eastern provinces to the western coast, from the northern territories to the southern cities, Canada is waiting to welcome you with open arms and unforgettable experiences.

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Best Time to Visit Canada

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: September 16, 2024

The Best time to visit Canada depends on what you are looking to experience. From the Northern Lights to Whale watching, we cover every season.

Canada is known for its beautiful, contrasting landscapes, but because it is so vast, it can be hard to know when the best time to visit Canada really is. Whether you are looking to see the breathtaking Northern Lights or catch the whales emerging from the ocean surface, timing your visit is a must.

Not only do you have these spectacular sights but you also have every city offering various festivals, events, and sports seasons. We cover each season, so you can plan your trip to Canada with ease.

December to March

During the winter, Canada comes alive with snow sports; it is arguably one of the best places for skiing in the world.

Banff, Whistler, and Jasper in the Canadian Rockies are known for standout skiing and snowboarding, needing to be on your Canada bucket list . British Columbia’s Powder Highway, with its deep snow and sunny days, is a must for downhill adventures and is many travelers’ reason to visit Canada .

Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Lake Louise Ski Resort in Alberta, and Mont Tremblant in Quebec are all great ski resorts for you to check out, if this is where your interests lie.

This is also the ideal season to visit if you are looking to experience the various festivals. Quebec Carnival and Winterlude in Ottawa, are two popular options, both offering ice sculptures, dog sledding, and skating.

April to September

We love visiting Canada during the Spring and Summer seasons. This is the ideal time to explore one of our favorite places in the world, Niagara Falls, but also a fun time to visit the beaches, national parks, and lakes.

Cities such as Montreal, Toronto, and Calgary offer a great range of festivals from April to August that celebrate art, music, or their local traditions. Quebec City offers a fun Summer Festival whilst the Calgary Stampede in July is a unique rodeo show that shouldn’t be missed.

There are plenty of things to do in Toronto but the city truly comes alive in the Summer, with the baseball season in full swing, the patio bars opening up, and the festivals, like the CNE Festival, giving you plenty of things to fill your days.

May to September

If you love to hike, then visiting Canada any time between May to September is ideal. This is when the National Parks are in full bloom and you can appreciate all of the incredible wildlife on offer.

If you want to catch the festivals, then head to Canada between June to August but for those just looking to see the incredible nature here, visit in May or September. This way you can avoid some of those crowds and heat whilst you explore.

Banff and Jasper National Parks offer fantastic trails with opportunities to see bears, elk and mountain goats, whilst Algonquin Park in Ontario can be a fascinating place to see moose. Either way, make sure to spend time checking out the best hikes in Canada , to fully experience the country.

September to October

The fall foliage is a stunning rainbow of color if you visit in the autumn and the weather is a little cooler.

Ontario , Quebec, and the Maritime provinces turn a gorgeous collection of reds, oranges, and yellow from September to October, making this a pictuersque time to visit. There are also various Halloween celebrations in the cities throughout the month of October, which can be great for those that love the spooky season.

June to September

There are plenty of lakes and rivers in Canada, making it one of the best destinations for water sports enthusiasts to enjoy from June through September.

Whether you want to experience canoeing or kayaking, you can check out one of the many beautiful lakes on offer.

Lake Louise offers crystal-clear waters, so you can kayak surrounded by majestic mountains, whilst St. Lawrence River is a popular option for scuba diving, because of the shipwrecks underneath.

Okanagan Lake is a great choice for wakeboarding and jet-skiing whilst those looking to enjoy whitewater rafting should head to Ottawa River.

November to December

One of the best times to visit Canada for those who love the holiday season has to be in the lead-up to Christmas.

This is easily one of the best places to visit in December, because there are so many magical, festive events happening throughout the country.

Begin your trip in Quebec City, to see the charming Old Town transform into a Winter Wonderland, but then check out the Christmas markets in Montreal. Head down to Toronto’s impressive Distillery District for a vibrant market and then check out the Winter Festival of Lights in Niagara Falls.

Over on the other side, you can also enjoy skiing and snowboarding in Banff or Whistler but warm up with a hot chocolate in a cozy, charming lodge. You can also visit Vancouver, to see the many Christmas events that occur throughout December.

When to Visit Canada for the Northern Lights

Many people flock to Canada to see the breathtaking Northern Lights, better known as the Aurora Borealis.

For the best chances of seeing this celestial show, you’ll need to know when to visit Canada for optimal viewing conditions, when planning your trip to Canada .

The best time to see the Northern Lights in Canada is from late autumn through early spring, so typically between October and March.

You should head to the northern regions for the best views of the aurora, including Yukon, Northern Quebec, and Churchill, Manitoba.

When to Visit Canada for Whale Watching

Canada is home to some of the best places on earth to watch whales in their natural habitat. Timing is crucial, however, so make sure to plan your trip during the best time to visit Canada for whale watching.

If you are visiting the Pacific coast, then May to October is the best time for your visit. This is when you can expect to see orcas, humpbacks, and grey whales.

Atlantic Coast visitors should head here from June to September, to catch spotting humpbacks and beluga whales.

If you are planning a trip to see the whales, make sure to book a guided tour in advance and dress in layers; it can get chilly out in the water.

How to plan a trip to Canada

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Embrace Ontario's most colourful season

The vibrant autumn colour sets the stage for fall road trips, farm visits and harvest festivals. Take in the season’s beauty from hiking trails, paddling routes and cycling tours.

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10 Best Things to Do in Saskatoon, Canada

Saskatoon is the biggest city in Saskatchewa n and has long been the province’s cultural and economic center.  

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Named after the distinct sweet purple Saskatoon berries (from the Cree word “misaskwatomina”), the area first belonged to the Northern Plains Indigenous Peoples for over 6,000 years until the European settlers arrived in the 1800s.

Today, Saskatoon offers a mix of Saskatchewan history and contemporary culture. The city has over 60 neighbourhoods to explore, some of them dating as far back as the 1900s while others are fairly recent, modern developments. From wheat fields to a buzzing downtown scene, Saskatoon is one of Canada’s fastest growing cities with a signature prairie charm.

We recently spent 3 days exploring Saskatoon and have found plenty to do to keep ourselves busy. If you are planning to visit Saskatoon, read on to discover our favourite activities, restaurants, hotels and more!

Traveling Soon?  Here is a list of our favourite travel providers and accessories to help get you ready for your upcoming trip! Book Your Accommodation HERE Search for Great Tours HERE Get a Car Rental HERE Buy Travel Insurance HERE See our Favourite Camera Bag HERE Grab a Reusable Water Bottle HERE or a Filtration Straw HERE Order an eSim HERE

How to Get to Saskatoon

Saskatoon International Airport has daily nonstop flights to major destinations throughout the US and Canada, as well as a few seasonal flights to Mexico.

Located in central Saskatchewan, Saskatoon is accessible via Highway 16 from Edmonton (roughly a 5-hour drive covering 521 km/323 mi) or Winnipeg (8 hours away or 785 km/487 mi), or via Highway 11 from Regina (2 hrs 30 min drive at 263 km/163 mi away). 

Saskatoon’s VIA Rail Station is connected to the cross-Canada rail network from Toronto to Vancouver.

How to Get Around

Saskatoon is very walkable, especially if you’re staying within the city. It’s possible to get around on foot, and there’s also a reliable bus system that’s cheap and easy to navigate. Other options like taxis, rideshare apps, and bike rentals are available, too.

But if you want to see what the rest of Saskatchewan has to offer, we recommend renting your own car. There are many sights out of town that are only accessible with your own vehicle! 

Best Time to Visit Saskatoon 

Saskatoon’s summer months from June to August are the busiest and liveliest, with many festivals, outdoor activities, and local fanfare. It’s definitely the best time to visit to appreciate the vibrant city, its many walking trails, and its unique landscapes.  

In contrast, winters in Saskatoon can be long and very cold , with average temperatures in January are around -13°C (8°F). But if you want to experience the Saskatoon winter, there are festivals, ice sculptures, cross-country skiing, and other seasonal outdoor activities to look forward to–and a chance to see aurora borealis in the city!

12 Best Things to Do in Saskatoon

Around downtown saskatoon, 1. join a meewasin valley river tour .

At the heart of the city is Canada’s largest urban conservation zone, the Meewasin Valley . The name is Cree for “beautiful,” which you’ll see walking across 105 km of trails along the South Saskatchewan River. The multi-use riverbank trails are a great way to see the Saskatoon cityscape. More importantly, this area is maintained by Meewasin, a non-profit organization focused on balancing human use and river conservation.  

Head to downtown Saskatoon and join a guided Meewasin Valley River Tour . The 2-3 km walking tour is a great way to get to know the city and learn about its long history. Plus, proceeds help support Meewasin’s conservation and education programs, so it’s a sustainable tour too!

You’ll walk along Meewasin Trail, which is known as one of the best trails in Canada. The trail offers views of the South Saskatchewan River, iconic buildings, and the city skyline. 

Apart from the walking tour, Meewasin also offers  many other fun activities. There are  wildflower walks , a  birding breakfast experience  in the spring,  eco-adventure camps for kids in the summer , grazing dinners with a 3-course meal, and tons more. 

If you want to explore the area independently, bike rentals are available so you can cycle through the valley. In the winter, they also have an exclusive sip and skate event at the Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink that Saskatoon residents and tourists flock to! 

2. Visit Remai Modern 

Spend a few hours appreciating the city’s biggest collection of modern and contemporary art. Remai Modern has a permanent collection with over 8,000 works from local and international artists, a Pablo Picasso gallery, and 9 other gallery spaces with changing exhibitions.

They’re open from Wednesdays to Sundays from 10am to 5pm, and closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

3. Go for a Ride along the South Saskatchewan River 

​​The South Saskatchewan River is no doubt one of Saskatoon’s most iconic landmarks. Today, there are lots of recreational activities centred around the river. Popular choices include paddleboarding , kayaking , or sightseeing on the Prairie Lily Cruise . 

4. Head Across the River to Explore Broadway Ave  

Broadway Avenue is Saskatoon’s quaint main street, lined with local arts and crafts shops, cute cafés and bistros, beer breweries, vinyl stores, the iconic Broadway Theatre, and more. Festivals and community events often happen here – for example, on the first Saturday in September, Broadway Avenue turns into a celebration of all things local!

5. Visit the Saskatoon Farmers Market 

Saskatoon’s local farmers market has been running since 1975, and it’s open year-round. You’ll find everything here, from high-quality local agricultural products, to baked goods, ready-to-eat meals, local handicrafts, and more. 

Visit the Saskatoon Farmers’ Market on  Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.  or  Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m . 

6. Hang Out at River Landing in Downtown Saskatoon 

River Landing is a great outdoor spot in the city. It’s a beautifully maintained park that’s quiet, spacious, and has lots of open areas for lounging around. There are some walking trails around here, too, and plenty of pop-up events and activities take place throughout the week. 

7. Visit the Ukrainian Museum of Canada

Canada has a very rich Ukrainian settler heritage, and this museum tells us more about their history, culture, art, and traditions. Established in 1936, the Ukrainian Museum of Canada is one of the oldest Ukrainian museums in North America. They have an impressive textile collection that displays regional folk costumes and impressive paintings, old photographs, rare books, folk art, fine art, and more. 

The Ukrainian Museum is open Wednesdays through Sundays and closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission is free, though donations are welcome.

Beyond Downtown Saskatoon

8. visit black fox farm and distillery.

Just 15 minutes from downtown Saskatoon is the award-winning Black Fox Farm and Distillery . Their SE Eleven Canadian Whiskey has bagged prestigious international awards and is a must-try, but they also offer Canadian gin and liqueur within their selection. Take a tour to learn more about their unique methods that combine traditional distillery with modern technology. 

During the summer months , you can also  pick your own flowers and berries  and enjoy a cocktail in their outdoor space overlooking the farm. 

9. Discover Wanuskewin Heritage Park 

Head to Wanuskewin Heritage Park for a truly immersive prairie experience that takes you to unspoiled landscapes and tells the story of the Northern Plains Indigenous Peoples . 

This area  was a  gathering place of Indigenous Peoples  over 6,000 years ago. The park preserves about 360 acres worth of trails, archaeological digs, interpretive sites, flora and fauna, and more. You can even find  repopulated plains bison in the area, slowly restoring balance to  the land. Visitors can learn about the rich history and traditions through interactive demonstrations and events, traditional cuisine, art galleries, Tipi Sleepover programs, and more.

The park is open from 9:30am to 5pm daily, and admission is CAD $16 for adults.

10. Join a Han Wi – Moon Dinner 

The Han Wi Moon Dinner is a special culinary experience and was one of our favourite ways to spend time at Wanuskewin. The evening started with a guided walking tour that recapped 6,000-year-old stories about the culture, history, and science of the land. 

Dinner is a beautifully set up 3-course meal served in the Tipi Village. Chef Jenni Lessard and her team are behind the special menu featuring seasonal dishes made with ingredients sourced from the prairie. The evening ends with a cultural presentation against the beautiful prairie sunset. 

It’s a truly unique experience and one of the best things to do in Saskatoon. It only happens a few times a year, usually in the summer, so make sure to keep an eye on the Wanuskewin news and updates and book your spot when it becomes available. 

Where to Stay in Saskatoon

James hotel.

For a luxury stay, book a room at the family-owned, contemporary boutique James Hotel . Located along the South Saskatchewan River banks, the hotel offers a great view of the city from the rooms. We stayed in their Junior Suites, which were outfitted with a deluxe king bed, L’Occitane bath amenities, Carrera marble bathrooms with deep soak tubs, and our own private balcony. Room options include a studio suite, a one or two-bedroom suite, a classic king, or a penthouse suite. 

There’s also a 24-hour fitness centre on-site, and their hotel bar, The Lobby Bar , is ranked #37 in Canada’s Best 100.

ALT by Germaine 

Another great option by the river with a friendlier price tag is ALT Hotel . It’s modern, clean, and comfortable, with 2 dining options on-site and a 24-hour gym.  

Guests can choose between a king or queen bedroom, a river view king bedroom, or a two-queen bedroom. These rooms have convenient extra features, like a rainfall shower, HD TV with Chromecast, free Wifi, and a Nespresso coffee machine.

The hotel is within walking distance from Remai Modern, as well as a lot of downtown restaurants, bars, and the theatre.

Delta Hotels Bessborough 

Some people refer to Bessborough as Saskatoon’s own castle. It’s close to 100 years old, and is something of a local landmark thanks to its iconic Chateau-style architecture and 5 acres of lush gardens. An elegant structure along the riverside, the hotel has a luxury spa, two dining options, a fitness centre, and a beautiful swimming pool that overlooks the gardens.

Some areas are being renovated for 2026, as the hotel is poised to become a Marriott Autograph Collection property. 

Outside Saskatoon: Alive Sky Lodge  

We highly recommend Alive Sky Lodge if you’re looking to spend a night in a scenic place outside the city. They offer really unique converted grain bin accommodation in the middle of a canola farm! 

In the daytime, you have your own little prairie vista, and at night, you’ll be spoiled with a view of Saskatchewan’s starry skies. The grain bin room that we stayed in also comes with a 2-person hot tub and a private fire pit – ideal for enjoying those late nights!

Where to Eat in Saskatoon

We had a lot of fantastic meals in Saskatoon, here are just a few worth mentioning. 

Farm-to-table restaurant with a unique, local menu and our favourite restaurant in Saskatoon. They use fresh, seasonal ingredients for every dish and their dishes are full of flavour and creative twiss. Try the Chef’s Choice 4-Course Meal , and order a cocktail or wine pairing to go with it!

For a fusion of Cantonese, Vietnamese, and Japanese cuisine, head to the Odd Couple. Some of their best dishes are the Vegan Spring Rolls, Kung Pao Chicken, Thai Basil Stir Fry, and Beef Tenderloin.

Hometown Diner

This modern diner serves all-day breakfast and lunch. Start your day with coffee and an order of Fried Chicken and Pancake, a Hometown Burger, or Eggs Benedict.

This new open-concept restaurant in town combines global inspirations with local flavours. It offers many great vegetarian options, like lentil fries, beet chips, and mushroom dishes. For non-vegetarians, Pork Bao was also on our list of favourites!

Located inside Remai Modern, this delicious restaurant offers a taste of vibrant prairie cooking. Their menu changes quite a bit, but always serves a modern take on old favourites. We came here for lunch and particularly enjoyed our colourful salads.

Botté Persian Cafe

We are always on the search for high quality tea in cities that we visited. The Botte Persian Cafe stood out for their selection of fair-trade loose leaf teas. It’s also one of the few places in town with a Matcha Latte on the menu. The café also serves delicious Persian inspired meals and are known for their Tea Cakes for dessert.

If you’re willing to splurge for brunch, this spot has a great selection of sandwiches, soups, and salads, freshly baked and mostly organic bread, and specialty coffee. Their best-sellers are the Chicken Apple Brie and Danishes with different seasonal jams. 

This riverfront spot is known for home-style cooking, seasonal fruit pies, and hearty meals. It’s a great place to taste the famous Saskatoon berries, or enjoy some live music.

Food Trucks  

Saskatoon is big on food trucks, and there’s even Food Truck Wars that happen in July. There are street market vendors, food-related contests, taste-testing, dancing, and of course–plenty of food trucks!

The Bottom Line

Saskatoon is a vibrant city that blends rich history, diverse cultural experiences, and natural beauty, making it a great destination, particularly in the summer. 

Whether you’re exploring the scenic Meewasin Valley, enjoying local cuisine, or delving into the city’s arts and heritage, or simply spending your day “saskatooning” – we have no doubt you’ll have a great time exploring this city. We sure did! 

Disclaimer: Our stay in Saskatoon was arranged courtesy of Tourism Saskatchewan and Discover Saskatoon . All opinions expressed in this article are our own. 

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