Being one of the largest countries in the world, you can already imagine that there is a lot to see in Canada. If you are thinking of traveling there, to make it easier for you, we select the essential places to visit in Canada in this article.
Canada, located in North America, is the second-largest country in the world and one of the first to give travelers unforgettable experiences. There is a lot to do in Canada, and with our comprehensive Travel Guides, practical Travel Tips, and innovative Trip Ideas, we want to help you choose some of the wonders to visit on your next trip. From contemplating imposing falls such as Niagara or Montmorency to strolling along glacial lakes such as Louise or Peyto to discovering the charm of cities such as Toronto or Montreal, including the Best Restaurants, Canada has something to do with all types of travelers. Thus, the most active will enjoy the walks through the natural parks of Canada; animal lovers will be able to spot polar bears; those seeking cultural opportunities will find them in the capital’s museums and castles; the possibilities are endless!
What to visit in Canada?
We are facing the second-largest country in the world. Although much of its territory is practically uninhabited, Canada has a good handful of charming cities, overwhelming coasts, spectacular landscapes, and wild nature.
Of all those places (here we tell you 20 things to see and do in Canada), we have compiled those that seem essential to take home the purest essence of the country. Our top 10 from Canada is a journey from the East Coast to the West, passing through the legendary Rocky Mountains.
For all this, keep reading and discover the beautiful places of interest to visit in Canada. We promise that they will leave you with your mouth open.
1. Niagara Falls
It is one of the most famous symbols of Canada and the gateway to the country for those traveling from the United States. These waterfalls, some of the mightiest in the world, have the power to amaze everyone who contemplates them, no matter how much they have seen them in photos or videos.
The best way to soak up all their splendor (and their roar) is by riding one of the boats approaching them until you can almost touch them. Awesome! The noise and the waterfalls’ power will leave you a bit dizzy.
We recommend that you stay in Niagara Falls for at least two days. The area is beautiful and exciting, especially if you enjoy wine tourism. Did you know that in Canada, the wine tradition is getting stronger? Rent a bike and ride to the quaint town of Niagara on the Lake (about 14 miles away), stopping at Inniskillin Winery for wine tasting.
If you are traveling through the United States and want to visit the Canadian part of Niagara Falls, you will not need to apply for any permission in advance. However, if your idea is to travel through Canada, you will have to get a Visa for Canada from Spain.
2. Toronto
Have you heard of the Tower from where you can see Toronto? This is the CN Tower, the unmistakable symbol of the Toronto skyline and from whose viewpoint, located 447 meters high, you will get a spectacular view of the city.
But in this Canadian city, there are so many great plans that will make you forget even that bad joke. Some neighborhoods are fascinating, such as Chinatown or the Distillery District. There are lovely museums (such as the Art Gallery of Ontario, with paintings by Picasso, Van Gogh, and others).
There are also hypnotic buildings, among which The Gooderham Building (the Canadian version of the New York Flatiron) and gastronomic markets where you can try a delicatessen made in Canada stand out.
It is one of Rober’s favorite cities, and without a doubt, it is fully on our list of places to visit in Canada, yes or yes.
3. Montreal
It is the city that saw the birth of one of the greatest Canadian artists of all time: Leonard Cohen. Yes, Montreal is where French is spoken while still in North America, where you will have the opportunity to fall in love with “Vieux-Montreal,” the heart of the city, a kaleidoscope of cobbled streets, chic restaurants, small squares full of flowers and a great atmosphere of the Okay.
And, of course, don’t forget to visit the fantastic neighborhood of Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, full of stone houses and trendy venues. As you wander, look for “La Banquise,” where they say one of the most famous poutines in Canada is prepared. We give faith.
4. Quebec City
This small town is the great jewel of eastern Canada; it is so beautiful that it could be mistaken for a huge set from any Disney movie. It even has a Castle! The thing is tricky since the Château Frontenac is a hotel and not cheap.
The good thing is that walking in front of him on the Terrase Dufferin and taking a photo session in the purest modern Cinderella style is free.
5. Montmorency Falls
If everyone has heard of Niagara Falls, few know about Montmorency Falls, located just 10 km north of Quebec. Competing with its neighbors is difficult, but they are also quite imposing: at 83 meters, they are even higher.
Getting there is easy from Quebec City since you only have to get on the 800 bus (approx. 40 min). And once there, the visit becomes very enjoyable through trails, suspension bridges, and viewpoints.
6. Vancouver
It’s time to fly to the other end of the country towards Vancouver, without a doubt, another of the important places to visit in Canada. Cosmopolitan, with atmosphere, good weather, and very complete (there is everything here, from the sea to the mountains), Vancouver always appears on the lists of cities with the best quality of life. After visiting it for a few days, we were not surprised at all.
If you dare to visit it, write down these three places: Stanley Park, the largest urban park in Canada; Gastown, the old part of the city; and the Grandville Island market, where you can try fresh, quality products in an ideal setting.
In addition, Vancouver is the perfect starting point for one of the most legendary road trips: that of the Canadian Rocky Mountains (the following points of the article will take you on a virtual trip there).
7. Jasper National Park
Snowy mountains, glacial lakes, spectacular trails, and… bears! We will never forget this corner of Canada where we first saw Canadian bears. And it wasn’t once, twice, or three times… we felt like we were on a constant safari :-p (luckily, we had the protection of the car, hehe).
But beyond those furry animals, Jasper National Park is home to breathtaking landscapes, such as Maligne Lake, which we saw wholly frozen and covered in snow, Athabasca Falls, or the Valley of the Five Lakes.
8. Banff National Park
If Jasper National Park welcomed us with open arms (thankfully not a bear’s), Banff National Park did not fall short: this corner of the earth is a nature lover’s paradise, one of those places so impressive that they make you feel like a speck of dust in the universe.
Be sure to visit Peyton Lake, Lake Louise, the Plain of 6 Glaciers, and the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel (another hotel that looks like a castle, in this case, framed by high mountains and hidden by lush forests).
9. Yoho National Park
We finish our route through the Canadian Rocky Mountains in Yoho National Park, less known than the previous two but just as amazing. Moreover, the fact that it’s not so famous makes it even more surprising.
We advise you to see Emerald Lake, the Natural Bridge, or the Takakkaw Falls.
10. Ice Hockey Match
We cannot end this post on the top 10 in Canada without naming one of the experiences we most enjoy on our trip to the North American country: attending an ice hockey game.
The word is well chosen: “assist.” Because, see, we didn’t see much. For some rookies like us, without any notion of this sport, the match was the least of it. The exciting thing was the atmosphere, participating in the country’s daily life and being, for a few hours, some more fans of the Toronto Marlies. We had a great time (although the game’s rules are still a mystery).
So now you know, if you travel to Canada between October and April, an ideal life experience will be to go to an ice hockey game. The Toronto Maple Leafs, the Calgary Flames, and the Montreal Canadiens are the most potent teams. Oh, and don’t miss the beer and hot dogs!
These places to visit in Canada (and experiences to live) are the best for the first trip to this North American country. We can’t wait to return to explore this vast and varied land (hopefully, we can travel north!).
Do you know other places to visit in Canada that we have left out of the inkwell? Have you been? What is your favorite site?
11. Whistler, British Columbia
We’re pretty sure Whistler had to be the inspiration behind “Walking in a Winter Wonderland.” The world-famous ski destination offers perfect snow, local food, and plenty of alternative outdoor activities for those who prefer to keep their feet firmly planted on the ground.
Where to stay in Whistler
Between the heated outdoor pool, three hot tubs, and views of the surrounding mountains and forests, the Four Seasons Whistler will be among your best bets for a luxury Whistler vacation getaway. It’s just an eight-minute walk from the base of the Whistler Blackcomb ski lifts.
12. Lake Louise, Alberta
Lake Louise is a picture-perfect outdoor destination any time of year, but it’s particularly magical come Christmas time. The welcoming mountain town offers the perfect setting to kick back and relax with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or lace up your skates and spin around the 200-foot-deep frozen turquoise lake in the middle of the mountains.
Where to stay in Lake Louise
If you’re hoping to find the right combination of rustic and luxurious, look no further than the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. This wish-list property is one of Canada’s oldest luxury hotels and boasts stunning views of the turquoise lake and surrounding mountain ranges.
13. Churchill, Manitoba
Look for adventure-focused vacations in Churchill, Manitoba. This small town on the prairie boasts more wild polar bears per capita than any other city in North America. Don’t worry about spotting a polar bear or other arctic creatures.
Where to stay in Churchill
The Polar Inn & Suites is a no-frills place to spend the night. Each room includes a kitchen and cozy dining area to refresh and recharge after a day of searching for polar bears and maybe even the northern lights.
14. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
You may have visited Niagara-on-the-Lake during its peak summer season, but take notice of winter in the famous resort town. Here, you’ll find less crowded skating spots, an annual mulled wine festival, and a quick trip into the festive lights and sounds of Niagara Falls.
Where to stay in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Are you looking for something at the intersection of cozy and luxurious? Then, the Prince of Wales Hotel will do just fine. This royal-inspired property feels more like a great speakeasy than a small-town hotel thanks to its deep mahogany living rooms, open-air dining room, and opulent suites and rooms that seem to be borrowed straight from Versailles.
15. Halifax, Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia is best known for its abundance of warm-hearted citizens and a close-knit community, and that’s only amplified in December. Strike me up for a conversation in one of the many pubs and bars around the city center, and chances are you’ll walk away with an invitation to a Christmas dinner or Christmas party.
Otherwise, warm up with a steaming bowl of lobster bisque and a drink at Bishop’s Landing, or head to the Glow Halifax Christmas Light Festival, an interactive holiday light show, and market that draws visitors and locals alike.
Where to stay in Halifax
Halifax may be quaint, but it has excellent historic and contemporary properties. The Westin Nova Scotian will be your best bet if you expect to be right in the middle of the restaurants and shops in Bishop’s Landing. Head up Spring Garden Road to The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites if you prefer to be next to the Halifax Public Gardens.
16. St. John’s, Newfoundland
A winter vacation in St. John’s is always a good idea. It’s a sleepy French territory off the coast of Canada, where you’ll find croissants and pain aux Chocolat. Be sure to pack euros.
Where to stay in St John’s
Built on the site of old Fort William at the base of Signal Hill, the Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland is steeped in history and incredibly well-located. It’s within walking distance of all of St. John’s best cultural offerings and a stone’s throw from revered George Street.
17. Banff National Park
All travelers agree that Banff National Park is one of Canada’s best places to visit. Located south of the Rocky Mountains, Alberta, it is the most visited park due to the beauty of its landscapes. Peyto Lake is one of the most spectacular places to see in Canada. You will hallucinate with the surroundings, but even more with the turquoise color of the water.
Without leaving Banff, you can also enjoy another of the important places to see in Canada: Moraine Lake. Fed by water from a glacier, this lake is also characterized by having blue water that seems to come from another planet. Furthermore, the lake is surrounded by the mountains that form the Valley of the Ten Peaks. If you like doing active tourism, you can rent a kayak and tour part of the lake. If you want to visit it, keep these indications in mind: it can only be done during the summer months, and access is limited, so try to arrive early so you can stay in the parking space.
On the other hand, one of the things that we recommend you do in Canada is to climb to the top of Sulfur Mountain, something that you can easily do thanks to the viewpoint of the Banff cable car. In addition, you’ll get spectacular views of the Bow River, the nature park, and the town of Banff.
You must notice other corners of the Baff National Park: Mirror Lake, Agnes Lake, Bow Lake and its glacier, Johnson Lake and Minnewanka Lake. If money is not an issue, stay a few nights at the Banff Springs Hotel, a luxury hotel located in the Rocky Mountains, which has hot springs perfect for relaxing after a day full of emotions.
18. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Are you an adrenaline junkie? Then you cannot miss one of the most famous places to visit in Canada, the Capilano Suspension Bridge, located in the forest of the same name. It is a set of suspension bridges in which the Capilano Bridge stands out, a 127-meter bridge that swings over the Capilano River. Although its current construction is much safer than the initial one, which was made of wood, crossing it is still a somewhat terrifying experience.
Located just 30 minutes from Vancouver, the park offers a great experience if you travel as a family. You’ll find forests, lakes, redwood tunnels, and wooden bridges through the treetops (called skywalks), where you can spend a great day in nature.
19. Ottawa
If you are considering what to visit in Canada, we recommend that you pay a little attention to the country’s capital. Ottawa is located on the banks of the river of the same name and has more than one million inhabitants. It is the political center of the country. It stands out for having beautiful architecture and several art galleries and museums, such as the Laurier House, the National Art Center, and the Canada War Museum.
The most exciting area of Ottawa and one of Canada’s landmarks is Parliament Hill. Here are the most important government buildings in the country. Nestled within a charming natural environment, it is worth taking a walk to admire them.
On the other hand, we also recommend walking along the Rideau Canal or Rideau Waterway. It is part of a 202-kilometer-long river that connects Ottawa with Lake Ontario. Declared a World Heritage Site, it is the oldest canal in North America and is still in use. In spring and summer, you will see many boats going through it, but winter becomes the longest ski slope, with almost eight skiable kilometers.
il, which takes you to the neighboring Lake Agnes. Also, in winter, you can go ice skating on the lake and downhill or cross-country skiing at the nearby Lake Louise Mountain Resort.
Canada’s Top Places to Visit: Conclusion
Canada offers a diverse range of Vacation Spots suitable for all travelers. Whether you’re seeking relaxing Beach Vacations on the coasts of British Columbia, exciting Family Vacations exploring the Rocky Mountains, or unforgettable Summer Vacations in vibrant cities like Vancouver and Toronto, Canada’s vast landscapes and cultural offerings ensure an extraordinary journey. From the rugged wilderness of Yukon to the charming Maritime provinces, Canada’s top places to visit provide memories to last a lifetime.
