Located in the North American Continent, Canada is one of the most beautiful places on earth. Comprising three territories, 10 provinces and six time zones, it is the second largest country in the world. Apart from the unparalleled natural beauty of the place, Canada is also home to some of the most eclectic and vibrant cities. All these reasons make it one of the top holiday destinations in the world. Although we would not be able to cover all the amazing places in Canada here, we present the best places to visit in this North American country.
Top 30 Must-Visit Destinations in Canada
1. City of Niagara Falls, Ontario
Bordering USA’s New York, the City of Niagara Falls is home to one of the largest waterfalls in the world. The best thing to do at Niagara Falls is to hop-on to a Maid of the Mist boat tour to see the iconic waterfalls up-close. Apart from this, there are several interesting places to see and things to do here. Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory, Old Fort Niagara, Niagara Glen Nature Reserve, White Water Walk, Niagara SkyWheel and Niagara Fallsview Casino are best places to visit in this city.
Witness the thundering power of the iconic waterfalls on the Canada-U.S. border. Take a journey behind the falls on a tour for a unique perspective.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June – August)
How to Reach: By car or bus
Things to Do: Witness the majestic Niagara Falls, take the Maid of the Mist boat tour, explore the Clifton Hill area.
Location: Southern Ontario, near Buffalo
2. Banff, Alberta
Banff in Alberta is one of the most picturesque places not only in Canada, but also in the world. The highlight of this place is the Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located at the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, the national park is the perfect place for trekking, hiking and skiing. However, Banff is not just for the adventure or outdoor-enthusiasts. This place is a resort town, with several luxurious resorts and hotels where you can swim, relax at a spa or simply have a good time.
Surrounded by soaring Rocky Mountain peaks in Alberta’s first national park. Hike through alpine meadows and emerald lakes in this outdoor wonderland.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (July – August)
How to Reach: By car or plane
Things to Do: Hike in Banff National Park, soak in the hot springs, visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
Location: Rocky Mountains, Western Alberta
3. Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver is a complete outdoorsy location throughout the year and one of the must-visit cities in Canada. While the summer months offer you the chance to relax on the splendid beaches of the city, the winter months can be dedicated to skiing and snowboarding. Aside this, the city also offers several interesting museums including the Vancouver Art Gallery, Museum of anthropology, Vancouver Lookout, Science World, etc. You would have a great time shopping, dining, watching sports events, enjoying live entertainments and indulging in thrilling adventures in this British Columbian city.
A scenic urban center nestled between mountains and ocean on Canada’s West Coast. Stanley Park offers a vast green oasis to explore right in the city.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (July – August)
How to Reach: By plane or car
Things to Do: Explore Stanley Park, visit Granville Island, take a trip to Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain.
Location: Southwestern British Columbia coast
4. Prince Edward Island
The smallest province of Canada, the Prince Edward Island (PEI) is perfect for those who want to enjoy a quiet and relaxing holiday. Endowed with a spectacular natural beauty comprising red sandstone cliffs, green mountains and gorgeous beaches, PEI is nothing less than heaven on earth. Outdoor activities on the island include cycling, golfing, biking and fishing. An interesting place to check out here is the fictional home of Anne of Green Gables. There are several other historical attractions as well on this island. One of the major attractions of PEI is Charlottetown.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (July – August)
How to Reach: By car or ferry
Things to Do: Explore Charlottetown, visit Green Gables heritage site, enjoy the beaches and seafood.
Location: Maritime province in Eastern Canada
5. Quebec City, Quebec
Quebec City, in the Canadian province of Quebec, is the closest you can get to a charming European village. Home to French culture, cobblestone streets and amazing historical attractions, Quebec City is a popular tourist destination amongst Canadians and foreigners. One of the top things to do in Quebec City is to wander around the neighborhood of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you would get to explore striking buildings and monuments belonging to the 17th and 18th centuries.
The only fortified city north of Mexico, with towering ramparts surrounding historic Old Town. Soak in European charm at Place Royale and Petit Champlain district.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (July – August)
How to Reach: By car or plane
Things to Do: Wander through Old Quebec, visit the Chateau Frontenac, explore the Plains of Abraham.
Location: Eastern Quebec along St. Lawrence
6. Toronto, Ontario
The capital of Ontario, Toronto is the largest city in Canada. Apart from being dotted with skyscrapers and tall steely structures, Toronto is best known for its cosmopolitan culture. Here, you would find several ethnic areas including Little India, Greektown, Little Italy, Chinatown, Koreatown, etc. In short, you would be able to enjoy different cultural experiences here. One of the most important places to check out here is the CN Tower, which is 1815 foot-tall and offers a panoramic view of the entire city. Other than all these, Toronto is known for its scenic beauty, gourmet experience, music scene and exciting outdoor activities.
Ontario’s provincial capital boasts soaring skyscrapers and world-class attractions like the CN Tower. A vibrant melting pot of cultures and cuisine.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June – August)
How to Reach: By plane or car
Things to Do: Visit the CN Tower, explore the Royal Ontario Museum, enjoy the Toronto Islands.
Location: Southern Ontario on Lake Ontario
7. Whistler, British Columbia
If you are looking for a perfect winter destination in Canada, Whistler would be an excellent option to consider. Known to be an outstanding ski destination, Whistler is visited by skiing enthusiasts and professionals from all around the world. The best skiing spot here is the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, which stretches 4.4 km and connects two mountains, the Whistler and the Blackcomb. Moreover, it is also a resort town, offering visitors an array of hotels and resorts to rest, relax and enjoy. While Whistler is most popular in winters, it is a great place to visit in the summers as well. The best place to visit during the summers is the Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, where you would be able to see 230-feet waterfall amongst other breath-taking attractions.
A two-hour drive from Vancouver, this alpine village hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics. World-class ski resort and charming pedestrian village.
Best Time to Visit: Winter (December – March)
How to Reach: By car or plane
Things to Do: Ski or snowboard at Whistler Blackcomb, explore the village, enjoy winter activities.
Location: Coastal Mountains of British Columbia
8. Ottawa, Ontario
No list of the best places to visit in Canada can be complete without mentioning Ottawa, the national capital. Lively and friendly, Ottawa is both a political as well as a cultural hub. At the same time, it is home to natural landscapes as well. If you are a history buff, you must definitely visit places like the Canadian War Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, and Parliament Hill. On the other hand, people who love outdoor activities should definitely visit the Gatineau Park and Rideau Canal. Moreover, if you visit this bustling city during winter, you would get to enjoy an amazing ice skating session on the Rideau Canal, undoubtedly one of the most exciting things to do in Ottawa. Apart from this, Ottawa is also a great place to enjoy shopping, dining and a whole lot of interesting festivals.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (July – August)
How to Reach: By plane or car
Things to Do: Tour Parliament Hill, visit museums like the National Gallery, explore the Rideau Canal.
Location: Eastern Ontario, national capital region
9. Montreal, Quebec
Housing the second-largest French speaking community in the world, Montreal is also the second-largest city in Canada. The unique culture of the city is one of the reasons that people love to visit Montreal. It is a buzzing metropolis that has an entertainment district, a historic quarter and numerous interesting neighborhoods. Do take the chance to visit Old Montreal, the old historic town, where you would get to see fabulous buildings dating back to the 1600s. Apart from the architecture of the place, the markets, the high-end boutiques, the festivals and the nightlife are reasons enough to visit Montreal. Moreover, the city also has several theme and water parks, making it a perfect destination for families.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June – August)
How to Reach: By plane or car
Things to Do: Visit Old Montreal, explore Mount Royal Park, enjoy the vibrant food scene.
Location: Southwestern Quebec along St. Lawrence
10. Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park is famous across the world for the adventurous activities you can try out. Here you can also spend a nice time gazing at the spectacular snow-filled mountains.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-May to early October for mild weather and outdoor activities.
How to Reach: Jasper is easily accessible by road from Calgary and Edmonton. The closest airport is the Edmonton International Airport, which is about a 4-hour drive away.
Things to Do: At this place you can hike up the Skyline Trail, visit the Athabasca Falls and Glacier, wildlife watching, whitewater rafting, skiing, and ice-walking on the Maligne Canyon.
Location: Jasper, Alberta
11. Gros Morne National Park
Next we have the Gros Morne National Park that offers stunning landscapes of beaches, tropical forests, and barren lands. You can also hike up the mountains and enjoy a panoramic view of the area.
Best Time to Visit: Canada in June to September for mild weather and outdoor activities.
How to Reach: The park is located on the western side of Newfoundland. You can easily visit the park via direct roads from major cities like St. John’s and Corner Brook.
Things to Do: Hiking the Gros Morne Mountain Trail, exploring the Western Brook Pond fjord, whale watching, and learning about the local fishing communities.
Location: In the Newfoundland and Labrador region
12. Churchill
Now let us talk about Churchill or the Polar Bear Capital of the World. It is extremely popular among tourists and people from different parts of the world come to witness the Northern Lights.
At Churchill you can also go on polar bear safaris, explore the Churchill River, and also enjoy bird-watching.
Best Time to Visit: Polar bear viewing is one of the best things to do in Canada in November and October, while February to March is ideal for Northern Lights.
How to Reach: Churchill is easily accessible by air and rail from Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Things to Do: Polar bear tours, dog sledding, Northern Lights viewing, kayaking on the Churchill River, and visiting the Itsanitaq Museum.
Location: Town on Hudson Bay in the far north of Manitoba, Canada.
13. Whitehorse
Whitehorse is another popular destination where you can view the Northern Lights. The place also offers a range of outdoor activities.
It is a transportation hub and a perfect getaway for adventure seekers.
Best Time to Visit: September to April for Northern Lights viewing and winter activities.
How to Reach: The Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport connects Whitehorse to some of the major Canadian cities.
Things to Do: Northern Lights viewing, hiking the Miles Canyon Trail, visiting the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, and exploring the Takhini Hot Springs.
Location: Northwest Canada’s Yukon territory
14. Okanagan Valley
The Okanagan Valley is a beautiful wine region where you will find various a lot of vineyards. The place is surrounded by pine trees and forested parks. The Okanagan Valley is famous for its orchards, ski resorts, and outdoor activities.
Best Time to Visit: June to August for warm weather and outdoor activities, September to October for wine tasting.
How to Reach: The Okanagan Valley is accessible by road from major cities like Vancouver and Calgary. The closest airport is the Kelowna International Airport.
Things to Do: Wine tasting at various wineries, hiking, cycling, resting at the vineyards, water sports on Okanagan Lake, skiing at resorts like Apex and Big White.
Location: Canadian province of British Columbia
15. Athabasca Glacier
Athabasca Glacier is one of the most beautiful landmarks in the Canadian Rockies, with massive glaciers covering the landscape. It offers opportunities for sightseeing and ice adventures.
Best Time to Visit: June to September for mild weather and outdoor activities.
How to Reach: The Athabasca Glacier is located along the Icefields Parkway, accessible by
road from Jasper and Banff National Parks.
Things to Do: Ice walking tours on the glacier, visiting the Glacier Skywalk, hiking the trails around the glacier, and exploring the Columbia Icefield.
Location: Icefield in the Canadian Rockies
16. Glacier National Park
The Glacier National Park offers breathtaking views of ice-covered lands. Visitors can explore the glaciers, alpine meadows, and diverse wildlife.
Best Time to Visit: July to September
How to Reach: It is accessible by road from major cities.
Things to Do: You can hike along the iconic Grinnell Glacier Trail, and visit the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. You will also enjoy the scenic drive along the Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Location: Montana, United States
17. Peggy’s Cove
This is a picturesque fishing village that is known for the iconic lighthouse and rugged coastline. It offers stunning views of the sea and offers a glimpse into the local fishing culture.
Best Time to Visit: Canada in May to October is the best time to visit.
How to Reach: It is about an hour’s drive from Halifax, Nova Scotia, and is accessible by road.
Things to Do: You will get to explore the Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, hike along the coastal trails, and witness the stunning sunrises and sunsets.
Location: Eastern shore of St. Margarets Bay in Nova Scotia.
18. Johnstone Strait
The Johnstone Strait is a beautiful channel in British Columbia. The place is known for it’s glaciers and opportunities for Marine wildlife viewing, especially dolphins.
Best Time to Visit: June to October.
How to Reach: Johnstone Strait is accessible by boat from various coastal towns like Telegraph Cove and Port McNeill.
Things to Do: Unique things to do here include Whale watching tours, kayaking, exploring the glaciers and islands, and also witnessing the diverse marine life.
Location: North East Coast of Vancouver Island.
19. Mont-Tremblant
Mont-Tremblant is a renowned ski resort town in Quebec, offering a range of outdoor activities and natural attractions.
Best Time to Visit: December to March and June to September.
How to Reach: Mont-Tremblant is accessible by road. The nearest airport is the Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport.
Things to Do: You fan skii and snowboard at the Mont-Tremblant Ski Resort, hike along the trails. For adventure lovers there is mountain biking, kayaking on the rivers and lakes, and exploring the charming village.
Location: Municipality in the Laurentian Mountains, northwest of Montreal..
20. Manitoba
Manitoba is known for its vast landscapes, including mountains, rivers, lakes, forests, and vast grasslands. The province also offers opportunities for hiking, camping, biking, and canoeing.
Best Time to Visit: June to August..
How to Reach: Accessible by air via the Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport. It is also well-connected by road and railway.
Things to Do: Explore the Riding Mountain National Park, hike the trails in the Whiteshell Provincial Park, canoe or kayak on the lakes, visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg, and attend cultural festivals.
Location: Central Canada, bordered by Ontario to the east and Saskatchewan to the west.
21. Tofino
Tofino is a charming little coastal town on Vancouver Island. It is famous for the scenic beaches, surfing opportunities, and the various beach festivals.
Best Time to Visit: June to September.
How to Reach: Tofino is accessible by road from all major cities. The nearest airport is the
Tofino/Ucluelet Airport.
Things to Do: Surf at the beaches, attend the Pacific Rim Whale Festival, hike the Coastal Trail, go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.
Location: Vancouver Island, off Canada’s west coast.
22. Winnipeg
Winnipeg is a multicultural city with a rich and glorious history and diverse cultural attractions. It offers a mix of outdoor adventures and urban experiences.
Best Time to Visit: June to August.
How to Reach: Well connected by road, rail and the Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport.
Things to Do: Visitors will get to explore the Canadian museum for Human Rights, visit the Forks National Historic Site and also enjoy various activities at the Assiniboine Park.
Location: Manitoba
23. Lake Ontario
Lake Ontario is one of the Great Lakes and a major attraction in Ontario. The place offers a wide range of recreational activities and scenic views.
Best Time to Visit: May to September.
How to Reach: Lake Ontario is accessible from various cities in Ontario by road.
Things to Do: You can visit the beaches, take a boat ride or go fishing. Visitors can also explore the waterfront trails. If you have time you can also visit the nearby attractions like the Niagara Falls and the Toronto Islands.
Location: Southern Ontario, Canada.
24. Cape Breton Highlands National Park
The Cape Breton Highlands National Park has a stunning coastal scenery, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife.
Best Time to Visit: June to October.
How to Reach: The park is accessible by road from major cities.
Things to Do: Try Hiking the Skyline Trail, ride along the Cabot Trail, and go whale watching. You can also explore the beaches and coastal cliffs.
Location: Inverness, Nova Scotia.
25. Cape Breton Island
Cape Breton Island is a picturesque island off the coast of Nova Scotia, offering a diverse array of adventures, scenic vistas, and cultural experiences.
Best Time to Visit: June to September for mild weather and outdoor activities.
How to Reach: Cape Breton Island is connected to mainland Nova Scotia by the Canso Causeway and is accessible by road. The nearest major airport is the Sydney/J.A. Douglas McCurdy Airport.
Things to Do: Drive along the Cabot Trail, hike the scenic trails, go whale watching, explore the beaches and fishing villages, visit the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, and experience the local Acadian culture.
Location: Eastern end of the Canadian province of Nova Scotia.
26. The Yukon
The Yukon is a huge but sparsely populated territory in Northwestern Canada. You must visit in this place for its breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and rich history.
Best Time to Visit: June to August and December to March.
How to Reach: It is accessible by the Erik Nielsen Whitehorse International Airport. The place is also connected by road.
Things to Do: Visitors will get to explore the Kluane National Park and Reserve, hike the Chilkoot Trail, and go dog sledding. You can also visit the Klondike Gold Rush historical sites, witness the Northern Lights, and learn about the First Nations culture.
Location: Northwest Canada.
27. Columbia Icefield Skywalk
The skywalk offers a thrilling experience of walking on a glass-floored observation platform over the Sunwapta Valley.
Best Time to Visit: May to September for the pleasant weather.
How to Reach: It is accessible by road from Jasper and Banff National Parks.
Things to Do: You can walk on the glass-floored Skywalk and enjoy the stunning views of the glaciers and valleys below. Travellers can also visit the Columbia Icefield Centre, and take an Ice Explorer tour on the Athabasca Glacier.
Location: Icefields Pkwy, Alberta.
28. Capilano Suspension Bridge
The Capilano Suspension Bridge is a popular destination in Vancouver. Whether you are hiking or riding, at this place you will be crossing a suspension bridge surrounded by mesmerising views with long green trees.
Best Time to Visit: May to September for the mild weather.
How to Reach: Easily accessible by public transportation or car from downtown Vancouver.
Things to Do: Cross the 140-meter-long Capilano Suspension Bridge, explore the Treetops Adventure, visit the Cliff Walk, and enjoy the nearby attractions.
Location: 3735 Capilano Rd
29. Calgary
Calgary is a happening and colourful city in Alberta. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, the outdoor adventures it offers.
Best Time to Visit: June to August.
How to Reach: Nearest Airport is the Calgary International Airport. Calgary is also accessible by road and rail from all the big cities.
Things to Do: Attend the Calgary Stampede in July, visit the Heritage Park Historical Village, the Calgary Zoo. You can also hike in the nearby Banff National Park.
Location: Alberta, Canada.
30. Lake Louise
Lake Louise is a beautiful picturesque hamlet situated in the National Park. The place is surrounded by soaring peaks and a majestic chateau.
The turquoise, glacier-fed lake is a natural wonder where you can try out various activities like canoeing in summer and ice skating in winter. You can also visit the nearby ski resort that offers gondola rides showcasing local wildlife.
Best Time to Visit: The summer months that is between June to August andthe winter months from December to March.
How to Reach: Lake Louise is conveniently located within the Banff National Park. It is about a 5-hour drive from Calgary or a 1.5-hour drive from Banff town. You can also opt for shuttle services and public transportation.
Things to Do: Canoeing and hiking is pretty popular in the summer months, ice skating on the frozen lake is ideal in the winter month. You can also try out skiing at the Lake Louise Ski Resort, or take the gondola for wildlife viewing, and exploring the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
Location: Lake Louise is situated in Banff National Park, in the Canadian Rockies of Alberta, Canada.
Conclusion
It can be easily said that Canada is the perfect place to enjoy an outdoor holiday. The amazing national parks, the mighty mountains, the serene lakes and the beautiful beaches make visiting Canada truly worth it. These are the most beautiful places in Canada, and each of them can be enjoyed during the summer and winter months.