20+ Best Places To Visit In Canada: Indulge In The Sweetness Of The Maple Country

Canada is usually mentioned as a friendly country for immigrants. But more than that, it is also a popular country for travellers. Scattered with natural wonders and harmonised with diverse cultures, Canada has become one of the best places to explore.

Intending to visit this country for the first time? Here is a list of the 20+ best places to visit in Canada that you can consider:

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1. Montreal, Quebec

Montreal is considered a small version of Europe in the middle of North America. Photo by frimufilms - stock.adobe.com

Montreal is the biggest city in Quebec and is popular for its harmony between the European and the American vibe. This city always stays at the top of the list of best places to visit in Canada.

Being a city with the second most French speakers in the world, right after Paris, Montreal has a long history. Therefore, this city is filled with historical sites, diverse cultures and distinguished cuisine to explore.

If you are a history-lover, you can choose to wander around cobblestone streets with buildings that date back to the 19th century. Destinations you can’t miss are the Notre-Dame Basilica, St. Joseph’s Oratory, Bonsecours Market, etc. All hold a significant value to the history of the city.

If you prefer something more artistic, visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, which exhibits a huge collection of art pieces, jewellery, furniture, and ceramics from 1400 to 1900. There is also a botanical garden and parks with gorgeous views.

For the food, do not leave the city without having a taste of the signature dessert, Pouding Chomeur, and the traditional Poutine. 

 

2. Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is a beautiful city surrounded by mountains and seashores. Photo by Stephanie - stock.adobe.com.

Vancouver is one of the cities that many will recommend if you are intending to visit Canada, whether alone or not. This city is favoured by nature with surrounding mountains and beautiful seashores. The ideal geographical location provides Vancouver with spectacular views, diverse nature and a comfortable climate all year round.

Being a young city, Vancouver has a dynamic vibe that stands out with a combination of different nations settling here. The best way to enjoy this city is on foot or by bike, as you can easily admire the spectacular view or stop by interesting attractions.

The first place you should visit is Stanley Park. It contains anything you can think of in nature in Vancouver, from seawalls, beaches, and forest trails to salmon streams. You can book a horse carriage tour to visit every destination within the park for an extra memorable experience.

Next, you can visit Queen Elizabeth Park or the VanDusen Botanical Garden to continue the lush green view. However, if you want a change, you can always dive into the Vancouver Aquarium, travel through time at the Science World, or book a tour to the sea to see the whales.

3. Guelph, Ontario

Guelph is perfect for travellers who are looking for a historical trip. Photo by Gilberto Mesquita - stock.adobe.com.

Guelph might be more popular as a city to live in, but that doesn’t mean tourists won’t have a wonderful time staying here. Though only an almost 2-hour drive from Toronto, Guelph has its distinguished vibe, less hustle and bustle, and more vintage and peaceful.

The birth of Guelph can be dated back to 11,000 years ago. Therefore, the city is rich in history, typical architecture and valuable archaeological evidence. Scattered around Guelph are basilicas, churches, and museums that represent the long past of this place. Besides historical attractions, you can also come to the conservation areas to explore nature and experience water sports.

4. Jasper, Alberta

Jasper National Park is a natural wonder with diverse wildlife. Photo by lucky-photo - stock.adobe.com.

Jasper is popular for the Jasper National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This place is stunning for its abundant wildlife, thousands of beautiful lakes and diverse geography.

As the biggest national park in the Rockies, you can find nearly anything you imagine in a nature exploration trip, making this city one of the best places to visit in Canada.

You can spend days in this park and won’t get bored. Depending on the season, you can plan your trip based on the activity you like, from hiking, climbing, canoeing, to swimming, skiing, skating, etc. Hop on the Jasper Skytram to admire the scenic view from the top of Whistler’s Mountain, or lie under the dazzling night sky to stargaze.

The park offers various tours if you want to save your planning time and upgrade your experience. Within the park, there are accommodations and restaurants ready to serve you during our stay.

5. Iqaluit, Nunavut

Iqaluit is a secluded city perfect for watching the Northern Lights. Photo by JKLoma - stock.adobe.com.

Iqaluit is the capital city of Nunavut. This city is unlike any other place in Canada, as it is drenched in the signature culture of the Inuit. There is no highway or railroad that leads here, so the only way you can visit this deserted place is by air.

The history of Iqaluit can be traced back centuries. However, only around a hundred years ago, the Inuit people decided to blend in, creating a harmony of modern and traditional vibes for this city. You can still see the clear imprint of Inuit traditions in the art, clothes, cuisine and lifestyle here. 

Though the city might not have many attractions, you can still have a wonderful time by visiting the local shops to explore the Arctic culture. Try dishes you might not be able to find elsewhere, like muskox, seal or whale. And do not miss the experience of watching the aurora borealis. 

6. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown is famous for its rich history and antique vibe. Photo by dbvirago - stock.adobe.com.

Charlottetown was named after the wife of King George II, Charlotte of Mecklenburg. The name itself shows that this city has a rich history. 

Not as popular as other cities, Charlottetown still preserves its classic peaceful atmosphere. This place will be the best place to visit in Canada for those who want a simple trip to sightsee and enjoy the local life. 

You can explore this city entirely on foot and stop by any destination you like, from historical attractions like the Province House or St. Dunstan’s Basilica to cultural places like Victoria Row or the Confederation Centre. 

And don’t worry if you change your mind about spending the entire time of your holiday in this city, because it is also a convenient place that will lead you to other famous attractions of Prince Edward Island.

7. Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria is a famous city for tourists near Vancouver. Photo by Narrow Window Photog - stock.adobe.com.

Victoria is a famous city for tourists, with a beautiful harbour and vibrant scenery. It’s only 98 km away from Vancouver, with public transportation and routes available, so you can easily plan a day trip if you are staying in either of these two cities.

Similar to Vancouver, Victoria also has many impressive botanical gardens that you can visit. But the number 1 attraction you can’t miss out on is the Inner Harbour. Not only a place for boats and ferry trips, but this harbour is also the location of the Royal British Columbia Museum and the Parliament Building. 

The Craigdarroch Castle and the Fisherman’s Wharf are also worth a visit. And if possible, stop by the Victoria Public Market to have a taste of local cuisine and buy some local artisan goods.

8. Whitehorse, Yukon

Whitehorse is a popular stop for those driving on the Alaska highway. Photo by Mary Baratto - stock.adobe.com.

Whitehorse is the capital city of Yukon and is known as one of the best places in the world to watch the Northern Lights. Its wild habitats, picturesque natural views, and rich history are also what attract tourists constantly.

You can spend a day exploring all the attractions within the city, like the Miles Canyon, S.S. Klondike National Historic Site, etc. Then, head to the famous Yukon Wildlife Preserve for another day trip. Immerse yourself in nature with exciting outdoor activities, and then come back to the city to catch the aurora at night.

The spectacular view and wilderness you experience in this city will surely leave an unforgettable mark on your trip. But besides the natural wonders, Whitehorse also has historical structures that are worth a visit, such as the Old Log Church Museum or the log skyscrapers.

9. St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador

St. John’s is a peaceful city with a long history. Photo by Aqnus - stock.adobe.com

The capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador. It’s the closest city to England, with only a 5-hour flight away. Founded in the 16th century, St. John’s is a mixture of a vibrant lifestyle and a long history, definitely one of the best places to visit in Canada.

Spend your day walking around the city to explore the hidden gems of the old streets, take some pictures with the famous colourful jellybean houses, or come to Cabot Tower, a historical structure built in the 20th century, to watch the beautiful sunset. St. John’s has both cultural and natural attractions for you.

This city has been a centre of the fishing industry since it was founded 500 years ago, so you can book a fishing tour if you want to experience something different. Also, don’t forget to cherish every meal you have here, as it’s a city with multiple award-winning chefs.

10. Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

The Cabot Trail provides a stunning view of Cape Breton Island. Photo by JJ - stock.adobe.com.

Lying beside the Atlantic Coast, Cape Breton Island stands out with the harmony between Mi’kmaq, Gaelic and Acadian culture, the natural beauties, and the hospitality of the locals.

One thing that everyone will agree on when coming to this city is to drive along the Cabot Trail, a loop that stretches around the island. ⅔ of the trail is wrapped by the sea, while the other passes through mountains and villages. This can be the guideline for your trip on Cape Breton Island, as you can drive around and stop by famous attractions whenever you like.

If you have a liking for hiking, remember to spend half a day at Cape Breton Highlands National Park to experience the Skyline Trail.

You might need around 3 hours to finish, and be prepared for the crowd because it’s one of the most beautiful hikes in Eastern Canada. Otherwise, you can choose the less famous trails like Aspy Trail, Benjie’s Lake Trail, Acadian Trail, etc.

While enjoying nature, don’t hesitate to spend your time learning about the cultural heritage of different ethnicities here. Have a taste of the plump lobster, dance along to the live Celtic music, or sign up for cultural tours.

11. Toronto, Ontario

Toronto provides an energetic vibe with a vibrant lifestyle. Photo by TOimages - stock.adobe.com.

Toronto is one of the most popular cities in Canada. It’s one of the financial and commercial cities of the country, with a vibrant lifestyle and a collection of different cultures around the world.

With a favourable geographical location, Toronto has soon become an international trading centre, connecting Canada and the U.S. Therefore, you will find the entire city bustling from dusk till dawn, always ready to surprise tourists with an interesting activity.

The most famous destination in Toronto is surely the CN Tower, a world-famous construction project 553 meters high. There’s a 360-degree restaurant on top of the tower, allowing you to enjoy the spectacular view fully, along with the delicacies of the city. CN Tower also offers a thrilling game, in which tourists can walk on the side of it, hovering in the air.

Another spot not to miss is the Distillery District. Whether because of its history as one of Canada’s National Historic Sites or a wide range of restaurants representing Toronto cuisine, this place will surely bring you a memorable experience.

12. Mont-Tremblant, Québec

Mont-Tremblant is a wonderful place to be even if you don’t ski. Photo by Pernelle Voyage - stock.adobe.com.

Mont-Tremblant is a city popular for various outdoor activities all year round. The city offers different experiences for every season, ready to welcome you no matter what type of trip you like, promising to be one of the best places to visit in Canada.

For those who like to ski, this city will be a haven with hundreds of trails for beginners to professionals. The best season is from November to April, when the entire city is covered in snow. There are many ski resorts for you to choose from, all of which offer equipment for rent.

If you don’t like skiing, that’s even better, as you can avoid coming to this city in the crowded season. This time, you can visit the Chapelle Saint-Bernard, admire the view from the panoramic gondola, visit the Mont-Tremblant National Park, or simply walk around the cobblestone streets and enjoy some speciality dishes.

13. Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

The clear view of the famous Okanagan Lake. Photo by Elena_Alex - stock.adobe.com

Okanagan Valley is one of the best places to visit in Canada for wine lovers. Set by Lake Okanagan, this valley has many vineyards scattered around, producing numerous award-winning wines in Canada.

You can sign up to participate in tours organised by the local vineyard. Each has a signature brewery technique that is worth knowing, and all provide a tasting experience to immerse yourself in the elite flavours.

After being full of wine, there are outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, swimming, etc., for you to enjoy. The advantage of geographical location provides the Okanagan Valley with both mountainous and water beauty, presenting you with many activities to choose from. 

14. Quebec City, Quebec

Quebec City is a peaceful haven with a resemblance to French culture. Photo by Joseph Oropel - stock.adobe.com.

Having many similarities with Montreal, Quebec City is a choice for those who prefer a peaceful vibe and a rather poetic touch of French. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage, this place is known for the well-preserved historical site, as well as being the only fortified city north of Mexico.

Travelling to Quebec City would be like going into a time machine back to the past. Spend days exploring the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec and its historical attractions. From the Chateau Frontenac to the Dufferin Terrace, the Place Royale to the shops in Old Port, each has a story waiting for you. Or even spend a night at a castle hotel in town.

But Quebec City doesn’t only have its history worth knowing. The natural sights here are also spectacular. You can see the Montmorency Falls, 30 meters higher than Niagara Falls, only a 15-minute drive from downtown. Or the Jacques-Cartier National Park, which has hiking trails and glacier surfaces for skiing in winter.

Quebec City is only more than 2 hours away from Montreal. It might take around 3-5 days to explore the entire city, so if possible, plan a trip long enough to visit both of these cities.

15. Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia

The portal of the Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens. Photo by Giban - stock.adobe.com.

Annapolis Valley lies in the middle of two parallel mountain ranges. This city is known for its fertility and is the 3rd fruit-growing region in Canada. Visiting the Annapolis Valley, you will get to experience a blend of rural charm and deep-rooted heritage.

To make your trip more interesting, combine visiting historical sites and local attractions. Begin by visiting the Grand-Pré National Historic Site, a UNESCO Heritage Site that represents the development of agriculture for Acadians. Next, you can visit gardens and vineyards to have a taste of the local freshness and see the agricultural imprint here for yourself.

For the next destination, you can visit the Port-Royal National Historic Site. This is only a reconstruction of the colonial settlement known as Habitation in the 17th century, butit  is worth visiting either way.  The  Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens and Fort Anne National Historic Site are also signature destinations, outstanding with heritage stories.

If you are not the type of mountainous traveller, don’t worry, Annapolis Valley can still bring you memorable experiences with its beaches. You can find the highest tides in the world at Burntcoat Head Park, where you can walk to the island on sandbars. Or enjoy the panoramic view at the Blomidon Provincial Park.

16. Drumheller, Alberta

Drumheller has a magnificent view thanks to the diversity in geology. Photo by Ramon Cliff - stock.adobe.com.

Drumheller is located in the southern part of Alberta. Home to many hoodoos, canyons, and fossils, Drumheller has an adventurous and prehistoric vibe often found in archaeological adventure films.

This city is known as the Dinosaur Capital of the World with many dinosaur museums and the world’s largest dinosaur 25m tall. Even if you don’t have much interest in paleontology, you must visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum. It provides an extraordinary experience, with access to see how the fossils are prepared, try searching for fossils, or learn about the timeline of the area.

The two other must-see attractions are the Horsethief Canyon and the Hoodoos Trail. Both offer hiking trails in different terrains, unlike any other place you’ve tried. And don’t miss out on a chance to visit the Atlas Coal Mine, an abandoned mine that has become a historic site, allowing visitors on tours to explore the underground on an antique train.

17. Winnipeg, Manitoba

Winnipeg is an energetic city with lots of interesting activities. Photo by JASHANPREET - stock.adobe.com.

Winnipeg is the largest city in Manitoba, located between the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. It is an energetic city of art and multiculturalism, hosting various annual events every year. Therefore, it can’t be left out of the list of the best places to visit in Canada.

The highlight destination of the city is the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, which displays interactive galleries of the development in the journey of fighting for human dignity and equality. 

If you are travelling with your family, coming to Winnipeg is a good option. It’s filled with delightful shows and performances for every age, from ballet, theatre shows to stand-up comedy. There are endless activities you can enjoy with your loved ones. Visiting the Royal Canadian Mint to learn about how coins are produced is also an interesting activity you can consider.

18. Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

Yellowknife is a perfect place to visit if you want to see the Northern Lights. Photo by LeeSensei - stock.adobe.com.

Yellowknife is one of the most popular cities for tourists, with hundreds of flights per day from big cities in Canada. The charm of this city is the harmony between Northern natural beauty and exhilarating culture.

During the cold seasons, you can go hunting for Northern Lights. The aurora in Yellowknife can be observed for up to 240 nights per year, naming this city as one of the best places to observe the Northern Lights in Canada and perhaps even the world. This time of the year, they also open up for distinguished activities like dog sledging, ice fishing, etc.

In the hotter seasons, you can go hiking in Cameron Falls and take pictures, or go kayaking, sunbathe on the beach, sailing, etc.

Throughout the year, many art galleries and events will be opened to celebrate the multicultural heritage here. You can easily spot art pieces from the local artists on the street, telling a story of the Indigenous and life in Yellowknife.

19. Dawson, Yukon

Dawson City still preserves many traces of the Klondike Gold Rush. Photo by Pascale Gueret - stock.adobe.com.

If Whitehorse is the city for natural sightseeing, then Dawson is the best place to visit in Canada for those who want to learn more about the history of the Klondike. Dawson City is associated with the famous Klondike Gold Rush event in 1896.

The entire city develops its charm based on the significant historical events that happened here. Numerous museums are opened, ready to tell the stories of the lives of those who once migrated here. Discovery Claims are organised, allowing tourists to experience searching for gold in a blessed area.

If you are not that interested in history, you can always come here to see the Northern Lights, go hiking, or release stress by wandering around the peaceful city.

20. Whistler, British Columbia

Most people come to Whistler to enjoy the snow. Photo by Drone Northwest - stock.adobe.com.

Whistler is a resort municipality in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia. The most common reason why people visit Whistler might be to ski. The place is gifted with glacier mountains, perfect for alpine skiing and snowboarding. If you visit this city in winter or spring, the entire space is covered in snow and filled with interesting snow sports.

However, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t come to Whisler if you don’t ski. There are always other activities for you to enjoy. Whether it’s hiking, surfing, kayaking, or fishing, the city always offers splendid service and support for whatever activity you choose.

21. Niagara, Ontario

The Canadian side of the famous Niagara Falls. Photo by Zoomtraveller - stock.adobe.com.

The world-famous Niagara Falls connects Ontario and New York state in the USA. Though both are popular for exploring this natural wonder, the Canadian site is known for a more panoramic view with more utilities and diverse wildlife.

The first thing to do when visiting this city is, of course, to visit the one-of-a-kind Niagara Falls. It is open 24 hours per day, with different beauty days and nights.

You can book various tours to explore different angles of the falls, from standing at its heart through 130-year-old tunnels, hopping on a boat for a closer look, or sitting on a skyline wheel to admire the overview. 

Niagara Park also offers numerous other interesting places to discover, like Niagara Glen, Butterfly Conservatory, white water walk, etc. You should spend an entire day here to fully admire the beauty of it. Not to mention having a meal in a skyscraper with a view of the falls is surely a memorable experience.

This city is also known as Canada’s largest wine region, so don’t miss out on the chance to have a taste of fine wine, visit vineyards, and indulge in signature cuisine here.

22. Regina, Saskatchewan

Regina is a harmony between big cities and small cozy towns. Photo by Kevin Daugherty - stock.adobe.com.

Regina is the capital city of Saskatchewan. This is a city in the Western of Canada with a cozy lifestyle mingled with a rich history. Despite being one of the fastest-growing major cities, Regina still preserves a peaceful vibe with friendly locals from the small towns.

Regina is known as the home of various art museums and centres. You can spend hours visiting one museum after another, each of which offers a different story and interesting glimpses of this place. The most popular ones are the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, the RCMP Heritage Centre, the Legislative Building, and the Government House.

Remember to save some time to come to Wascana Lake, a 120-hectare lake in downtown Regina. It’s a perfect spot for kayaking in the summer and skating in the winter.

H2. There’s A Lot More To Discover…

Above are only 20+ of the most significant places to visit in Canada. With the diversity in culture and geography, each region in Canada has a lot to offer. No matter what type of travel you like, this country is ready to serve. And there's no better way to explore this magnificent country than with a trusty quality carry-on backpack in tow!

Claire Thuc