What Are the Best Places to Travel to in Canada?
Canada is known for its vast, picturesque landscapes, vibrant cities and abundance of untouched nature, making it an amazing travel destination. From mountain lakes to national parks, there’s no shortage of incredible sights to see on your tour of the Great White North. You might even spot a bear or two!
We’ve put together a list of the best places to visit in Canada. Make sure some of these spots are on your travel list when you visit.
1. Niagara Falls
Arguably Canada’s best-known sight, Niagara Falls in southeastern Ontario is a collection of thunderous waterfalls, which make for a picture-perfect moment of natural splendor. You can take a boat tour to see the falls up close and personal, or keep your distance by visiting on a helicopter ride, overlooking Niagara Falls from above. Either way, the view is breathtaking.
2. Banff
Situated in Alberta, a region known for its natural beauty, Banff is one of the premier tourist attractions in Canada. Surrounded by the iconic Rocky Mountains, Banff is a town and the gateway to breathtaking Canadian wilderness.
There are plenty of adventurous activities for visitors, from world-class ski slopes in winter to hot springs and of course, tons of delicious eateries. Don’t overlook a visit to the nearby hidden gem, Canmore, too!
3. Lake Louise
Just a short drive from Banff, you’ll see the breathtaking Lake Louise, one of the best places to visit in Canada for nature lovers. Famed for its shimmering turquoise waters and the majestic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise perched on its shore, it’s the ideal place for a robust hike or to take Insta-worthy photos.
4. CN Tower & Toronto Skyline
Toronto’s skyline is Canada’s answer to New York, and it doesn’t disappoint. Toronto is Canada’s biggest city, and its crowning jewel is the CN Tower, iconic to residents and visitors alike.
Once you’ve checked out the skyline from either a helicopter ride or viewpoint, enjoy exploring the vibrant downtown. If you like fast-paced cities and foodie havens, it’s one of the best places to visit in Canada.
5. Old Quebec
As its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site proves, visiting Old Quebec feels distinctly like stepping back in time. Since Old Quebec was home to one of the oldest settlements of Europeans in North America, it feels steeped in history, and is all the more beautiful for it.
Dating back to the 17th century, you’ll find historic landmarks, museums and beautifully preserved colonial architecture.
6. Prince Edward Island
While this might be Canada’s smallest province, it’s certainly big on charm. Known for its incredible red-sand beaches, rolling countryside and even Anne of Green Gables lore, Prince Edward Island is definitely one of the best places to visit in Canada for history lovers.
It’s also perfect for outdoors enthusiasts, with plenty of cycling routes and spots for walking. Foodies and those seeking a slower pace of life on their vacation will love this tiny province.
7. Downtown Vancouver
Vancouver, is one of Canada’s biggest cities, situated in the scenic province of British Columbia. One of the country’s biggest and most diverse cities, there’s no shortage of things to see, do, eat and drink. Stroll through Stanley Park, walk or bike the Seawall and explore diverse neighborhoods like Gastown and Yaletown.
8. Yukon
For a truly magical experience, head north to Yukon, one of Canada’s three northern territories, which is breathtaking to see. It's also home to the Northern Lights! Between late August and April, the skies light up with green and pink waves of aurora borealis dancing overhead.
If you want to see something truly unique, it’s one of the best places to visit in Canada. We’d recommend basing yourself in Whitehorse, or, for something more rural, one of the territory’s remote lodges.
9. Gros Morne National Park
Often overlooked and criminally underrated, Gros Morne National Park is one of Canada’s best-kept secrets. Situated on Newfoundland’s west coast, this national park a geological wonder and one of the most unique landscapes in Canada. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can hike through fjords, stand on ancient exposed mantle rock and experience rugged coastal beauty, making it one of the best places in Canada for adventurous travelers.
10. Manitoulin Island
If you want to learn more about Canada’s Indigenous population, head to Manitoulin Island, which holds the title of the world’s biggest freshwater island. Visit the Great Spirit Circle Trail to learn about Anishinaabe traditions, hike the Cup and Saucer Trail for epic views and unwind on peaceful beaches.
We could go on forever about the incredible sights in Canada, from breathtaking lakes and waterfalls to vibrant and diverse cities, but these are a few of our favorites. Whether you’re planning a road trip or only have time for one destination, be sure to take inspiration from our list!