12 Best Places to Visit in Canada, it is the second largest Commonwealth country in the world, boasts vast expanses of untouched wilderness, making it a captivating destination for nature enthusiasts. Its national parks are renowned for their immense size and breathtaking landscapes, providing picture-perfect vistas that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Canada offers a plethora of rewarding experiences such as mountaineering, hiking, boating, swimming, and cycling. Whether you’re spotting grizzly bears in Banff National Park, skiing on the powdered slopes of Whistler, or indulging in Vancouver’s freshest wild salmon, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this remarkable country.
Beyond its stunning natural beauty, Canada also offers a rich cultural and historical experience. Immerse yourself in the Francophone region of Quebec, explore the vibrant East Asian culture pockets and sparkling skyscrapers of Vancouver, admire Toronto’s elegant Victorian architecture, or marvel at the grandeur of Canada’s ‘château style’ grand railway hotels and neo-gothic public buildings in Ottawa.
With so much to offer, Canada is truly a wonderful travel destination in North America. Plan your trip and discover the best places to visit in this captivating country.
Ottawa is one of the 12 Best Places to Visit in Canada
Situated at the confluence of three rivers, Ottawa serves as the capital city of Canada and is witnessing a steady increase in its population, currently ranking as the sixth largest in the country. What sets this city apart is its bilingual nature, where it is common to hear a blend of English and French, both being primary languages spoken here.
Formerly known as Bytown, Ottawa had its roots as a lumber town, with numerous mills constructed along the Ottawa River in the mid-19th century. Presently, it stands as a picturesque and environmentally conscious city, adorned with serene parks and waterways. During the summer months, biking is a popular activity, while in winter, these trails transform into ski trails. The iconic Rideau Canal, which traverses the heart of the city, is a must-visit attraction, particularly when it transforms into the world’s largest ice skating rink.
A visit to the Byward Market is highly recommended, as it offers a vibrant and lively experience. Additionally, for history enthusiasts, Ottawa presents a treasure trove of remarkable historic buildings, including the National Library and Archives, which ranks as the fourth largest library globally.
Being the nation’s capital, Ottawa houses numerous federal institutions, with Parliament Hill being the focal point where the ceremonial Changing of the Guard takes place daily during the summer season.
Whistler
Whistler resort, situated in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia in western Canada, is renowned as the largest and most famous alpine ski destination in North America, thanks to the spectacular Whistler and Blackcomb mountains.
The resort is just a two-hour drive from Vancouver along the Sea-to-Sky Highway, which is considered Canada’s most scenic drive. At the base of the two mountains are three charming villages, namely Whistler Village, Creekside, and Upper Village, from where visitors can take the Peak 2 Peak gondola to reach the mountains.
Whistler’s history dates back to its humble beginnings as a logging town. It was only after the 1960 Olympics in Squaw Valley that a ski resort was built on London Mountain, which was later renamed Whistler Mountain due to the whistle-like sound made by the native hoary marmots living in the mountains. Although the resort was initially built as a potential destination for the 1968 Winter Olympics, it wasn’t until the 2010 Winter Olympics that it finally achieved its goal.
Today, Whistler boasts many world-class ski resorts and offers breathtaking views from its mountain slopes, which attract adventurers year after year. Besides snow sports, the mountains also provide excellent opportunities for hiking and rock climbing.
Vancouver Island
Vancouver Island, the largest island off the West Coast of the North American continent, was named after the British explorer George Vancouver. This picturesque island is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and boasts stunning features such as shimmering lakes, breathtaking waterfalls, enchanting fjords, and majestic glacial mountains, all of which are a delight for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The island’s mild climate, which is the mildest in Canada, attracts outdoor travelers from all over.
While Vancouver Island is renowned for its captivating Butchart Gardens, the vibrant surf town of Tofino, and the untamed wilderness in the north, where ferries to Prince Rupert and Alaska can be found, it is also a haven for wildlife.
Not only can visitors experience some of the best whale watching opportunities in the world, including kayaking with orcas, but it is also a prime location for bird watching and spotting grizzly bears. With a sparse population, most concentrated in the capital city of Victoria, visitors can truly immerse themselves in the enchanting outdoor wonders.
For those seeking a nature walk, Strathcona Provincial Park offers some of the most spectacular scenery on the island. Explore the ancient forest of Cathedral Grove or enjoy a round of golf at one of the many exceptional golf courses available. Vancouver Island is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor adventures.
Quebec City
Quebec City, located in eastern Canada, serves as the capital of the Quebec province. However, its French heritage, architecture, and language give it the appearance of a charming European village.
Situated on a hill that overlooks the St. Lawrence River, Vieux Quebec is the city’s historic district. It is the only North American city that has managed to preserve its original walls. Taking a stroll along the cobblestone streets of the Old City allows visitors to encounter old buildings such as the Citadel and historic sites like the Place-Royale, where Samuel de Camplain established the first North American-French settlement. Throughout the Old City, one can find a variety of cafes, shops, and bars.
The city’s most iconic landmark is the breathtaking Chateau Frontenac, which is often considered the most photographed hotel in North America. Even without staying overnight, visitors can take tours of this magnificent structure. Another impressive hotel worth mentioning is the Ice Hotel, which is open from January to April. This unique hotel features rooms adorned with beautiful ice sculptures.
Beyond the city center, there are several stunning and historically significant parks, including Montgomery Falls and Plains of Abraham. These parks offer visitors the opportunity to witness breathtaking waterfalls, engage in outdoor recreational activities, and learn about the area’s rich history.
Toronto[SEE MAP]
Toronto, the sprawling city located on the shores of Lake Ontario, is the most densely populated city in Canada with almost three million residents. It forms part of the Golden Horseshoe region, which stretches from the lake to Niagara Falls. As the provincial capital of Ontario, Toronto is known for its multiculturalism, with nearly 100 ethnic communities calling it home.
More than half of the residents were not born in Canada, making it a melting pot of cultures. The city boasts diverse neighborhoods with their own unique cuisine and street signs written in different languages. Amidst towering skyscrapers and thousands of multi-cultural restaurants, Toronto is a hub of culture. The CN Tower, the tallest free-standing structure in the world, is a popular tourist attraction offering an uninterrupted view of the city from its observation deck, skypod, and the 360 Restaurant. A ride up in the glass-enclosed elevator alone is worth the visit!
Montreal
Montreal, situated at the confluence of the St Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers, is the second-largest city in the Quebec province. Renowned as Canada’s capital of culture, it stands out as one of the most diverse, vibrant, inclusive, and forward-thinking cities in North America. With its contemporary street art, dynamic music scene, and lively nightlife in its newer areas, Montreal exudes an unparalleled energy.
Although English is spoken, it is not the predominant language. In fact, Montreal holds the distinction of being the second-largest city in the world, outside of France, where French is spoken as a first language. This linguistic richness has earned Montreal the moniker of the ‘Paris of North America.’
Throughout the year, Montreal’s cityscape offers a delightful experience for visitors. Particularly in autumn, when the trees adorn themselves with shades of burnt orange, the iconic cityscape becomes even more enchanting.
The highlight of Montreal is the historic district of Old Montreal, characterized by its charming cobblestone streets, captivating museums, and centuries-old buildings, some dating back to the 17th century. Don’t miss the opportunity to ascend the clock tower at Quai de l’Horloge for breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and the sprawling cityscape.
For avid shoppers, Montreal boasts exciting retail districts such as the downtown underground complex, the Carrefour Laval mall, and the vibrant Bonsecours Market, known for its colorful offerings.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls, located on the border of Canada’s Ontario and the United States’ New York, is a breathtaking series of three waterfalls. The Horseshoe Falls, situated on the Ontario side, offers the most stunning views and a plethora of attractions. The surrounding area is a popular tourist destination, boasting observation towers, restaurants, souvenir shops, casinos, and high-rise hotels.
New York’s sister city is known as the “honeymoon capital of the world” and is one of the few places where you can obtain a marriage license without a waiting period. Visitors seeking both romance and adventure will find plenty to do here, with a long list of exciting activities and sights.
For the best view of Niagara Falls on the Ontario side, head to Queen Victoria Park. During the summer, the Falls are illuminated, and fireworks are displayed nightly. You can choose to view the Falls from above or below with helicopter tours, jet boat tours, an observation deck next to Skylon Tower, and elevators that take you down behind the falls.
Vancouver
Vancouver, situated in south-western British Columbia, is a sprawling metropolis and one of the largest cities in Canada. Renowned for its culinary scene, particularly its delectable seafood such as freshly caught prawns and wild salmon, it has become a haven for food enthusiasts. The city’s diverse population has contributed to a rich fusion of cuisines, ensuring that dining out in Vancouver is a delightful experience.
The highlight of Vancouver is undoubtedly Stanley Park, an expansive green space spanning 1,000 acres. Within the park, visitors can explore woodlands, gardens, and various recreational facilities, including an aquarium and a water park. The picturesque Seawall, which encircles the park, offers breathtaking views and is a popular spot for leisurely strolls.
Other notable attractions in Vancouver include the remarkable food market on Granville Island and the waterfront complex at Canada Place, which houses the Vancouver Convention Center. Chinatown, with its vibrant assortment of shops, restaurants, and stunning gardens, is also a must-visit neighborhood in the city.
Vancouver has earned the moniker “Hollywood of the North” due to its thriving TV and film industry. Additionally, it boasts the fourth-largest cruise ship terminal globally, welcoming approximately 900,000 passengers annually. Many of these cruises embark on journeys to the scenic landscapes of Alaska.
What sets Vancouver apart is its unique combination of beaches and ski slopes, both easily accessible. This has contributed to its reputation as one of the world’s best cities to reside in. The city is teeming with active and contented individuals who engage in activities like rollerblading, jogging, and dog walking along the Seawall, or enjoying a game of volleyball on Kitsilano Beach. A visit to Vancouver would not be complete without taking a dip in Canada’s longest pool, which is nearly three times the size of a standard Olympic swimming pool.
Banff National Park
Banff National Park, located in the Canadian Rockies, is not only the oldest national park in Canada but also one of the largest. Its vast size and remote location make it a popular destination for those seeking isolation, aside from the two points of civilization in Banff and Lake Louise. There are two routes through the park, both offering breathtaking scenery, including colorful lakes, canyons, viewpoints, and waterfalls. Whether you have your own car or not, shuttles are available to take you to the park’s key attractions.
Active travelers can enjoy snowshoeing or paddling on the lake, while wildlife enthusiasts can have their own adventure spotting the park’s many animals, including the highly anticipated grizzly bear. The town of Banff is the primary settlement in the park, offering a variety of lodging, shopping, and dining options. Lake Louise, accessible via the Icefields Parkway, offers luxurious accommodations in a stunning setting of turquoise lakes and majestic mountains. Other smaller villages in the park include Lake Minnewanka and Sunshine Meadows.
Calgary[SEE MAP]
Calgary, the largest city in Alberta, is situated in a picturesque location between the Canadian Prairies and the foothills of the Canadian Rockies. Its growth and development can be attributed to the discovery of oil in the nearby region during the early 1900s. Today, Calgary has transformed into one of Canada’s major metropolitan areas, attracting a significant number of visitors each year, especially for its renowned Calgary Stampede rodeo event.
While Calgary consists of various neighborhoods, the downtown core serves as the hub for commercial activities, entertainment, and shopping districts. Notably, Stephen Avenue Walk and Barclay Mall are popular pedestrian zones that offer a vibrant atmosphere.
One of the striking features of Calgary is its skyline adorned with numerous skyscrapers. Many of these high-rise buildings have observation decks that provide breathtaking views of the city and the majestic Rocky Mountains. Among the notable skyscrapers are The Bow and Calgary Tower. Additionally, the city boasts a wide range of family-friendly attractions, including a world-class zoo, amusement parks, botanical gardens, and a hands-on science center.
Calgary embraces its vibrant cultural scene by hosting various annual festivals dedicated to music, film, and dance. However, the most renowned and eagerly anticipated event is the Calgary Stampede. Held over a span of ten days in July, this Old West celebration captivates visitors with thrilling rodeos, chuckwagon races, parades, and competitions.
Churchill[SEE MAP]
Despite its small population of only 1,000 residents, Churchill is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World,” this town in Manitoba draws huge crowds every year to see its most famous inhabitants. In addition to polar bears, Churchill is also home to beluga whales, birds, and the aurora borealis.
If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of the polar bears, the best time to visit Churchill is in October and November when they migrate to the shores in search of food. To ensure the safety of both tourists and bears, the tourism industry provides tours and tundra buggies.
During the summer months, visitors can take tours to see the thousands of beluga whales that migrate to Churchill. Some even choose to swim with the whales while wearing swimsuits. With over 270 species of birds, Churchill is also a popular destination for birdwatchers. Species like snowy owls, gyrfalcons, stilt sandpipers, and tundra swans can be spotted here.
Churchill is also an excellent spot to view the aurora borealis, or northern lights. The peak time to see this natural wonder is between January and March. To reach Churchill, visitors can take a plane or train from Winnipeg or Thompson.
Cape Breton Island[SEE MAP]
Cape Breton Island, situated in north-eastern Nova Scotia, was once an independent colony until it was compelled to merge in 1820. During the early 19th-century, it became a haven for Scottish expatriates, making it the sole location in North America where Gaelic is spoken and offering a plethora of traditional Scottish music concerts.
Aside from the Scottish population, Cape Breton also boasts a thriving French community, with the 18th-century Fortress of Louisbourg being a prominent attraction. The presence of a captivating Mi’kmaq community further enriches the diverse cultural influences found here.
Whale watching in Cape Breton is an unforgettable experience. Sightings are almost guaranteed at the northern tip of the island, which can be reached through boat or kayak tours. The breathtaking scenery alone makes the journey worthwhile.
Among the island’s awe-inspiring landscapes, the undeniable highlight is Cape Breton Highlands National Park, renowned for its extraordinary Cabot Trail and stunning lookout points. Additionally, don’t miss out on exploring the picturesque fishing villages like Bay St. Lawrence, where you can indulge in some exceptional seafood.
