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27 Best Places to Visit in Canada

By Becky Griswold · Last updated on November 20, 2025

This Commonwealth country is actually the world’s second largest. Most of that land area, however, is complete wilderness. That is certainly one of the draws of Canada: the utterly vast expanses of nature to really and truly get lost in. Its national parks are truly massive, offering picture-perfect vistas.

Mountaineering, hiking, boating, swimming, cycling – there’s a lot of rewards here if you’re a fan of the great outdoors. Spot grizzly bears in Banff National Park, hit the powdered slopes of Whistler, or taste your way through some of Vancouver’s freshest wild salmon. There’s something in Canada for everyone.

Away from the stunning nature of Canada – also including the Great Lakes Region – you can explore its culture and history. Get stuck into the Francophone region of Quebec, the sparkling skyscrapers and East Asian culture pockets in Vancouver, Toronto’s elegant Victorian architecture, and Canada’s ‘château style’ grand railway hotels and neo-gothic public buildings in Ottawa. Plan your trip to this wonderful travel destination in North America with our list of the best places to visit in Canada.:

27. Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island sits in the Gulf of St. Lawrence as Canada’s smallest province. You get red cliffs, sandy beaches, and rolling farmland that honestly looks like it belongs in a storybook. Charlottetown is a great place to start. This historic city marks the birthplace of Canada’s Confederation. Take a stroll through Victoria Park or wander the downtown streets—there’s something cozy about it all.

Cavendish pulls in visitors with its Anne of Green Gables charm. The beaches and that famous red-sand coastline really live up to the hype. Driving over the Confederation Bridge is an experience on its own. The views are wild, and the bridge itself is one of the world’s longest, linking PEI to the mainland.

Summer, from June to September, is when the island shines. You’ll get warm temperatures for beach days and town exploring. Festivals pop up everywhere during these months—always a bonus.

26. Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park sits right in the Canadian Rockies, British Columbia. Turquoise lakes, tall waterfalls, and jagged peaks greet you at every turn. Emerald Lake is the park’s star. That unreal green-blue water looks almost photoshopped.

Takakkaw Falls plunges 833 feet down a rocky cliff. The thunder of the water carries for miles—hard to miss, honestly. You can do Yoho as a day trip from Banff or Lake Louise, but it’s worth sticking around to hike the trails and soak in the mountain views.

“Yoho” means “awe” in Cree. It fits. The giant peaks and wild rivers just hit different. You’ll need a Parks Canada pass to get in, and the Discovery Pass can save you some cash if you’re park-hopping.

25. Winnipeg

Winnipeg

Winnipeg sits where the Red and Assiniboine Rivers meet in Manitoba. The city blends urban fun with outdoor adventures in a way that feels pretty effortless. The Canadian Museum for Human Rights stands out as a must-see. The building’s design is wild, and the exhibits actually make you think.

The Forks is where everyone hangs out for food and shopping. It’s lively, it’s local, and it’s got a bit of everything all year round. Families love the Assiniboine Park Zoo. The animals and exhibits keep everyone busy for hours.

Walk through the Exchange District to see old buildings and local art. There’s this cool, historic vibe—almost like you’re in another era, but with coffee shops and galleries. If you’re around during hockey season, catch a Jets game. The arena buzzes with energy that’s hard to match.

Winnipeg’s arts scene is deeper than most people expect. Museums, theaters, and festivals pop up all year, showing off the city’s creative side.

24. Fogo Island

Fogo Island

Hidden off Newfoundland’s northeast coast, Fogo Island feels like a remote paradise. Here, traditional fishing villages meet art and a surprising dose of luxury. The Fogo Island Inn is famous for a reason. The ocean views are unreal, and every detail nods to local culture.

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Spend your days hiking along dramatic cliffs. The trails are windswept and wild, with the Atlantic crashing below—it’s the kind of place that makes you feel small in the best way. Check out the fishing towns where old traditions still matter. Locals are friendly and happy to share their slice of Newfoundland life.

Getting here isn’t simple—you’ll need to fly, drive, and then catch a ferry. But maybe that’s part of the magic. It keeps things special. The island mixes raw natural beauty and deep roots. You can try fine dining, pop into art studios, or just sit and watch the ocean do its thing.

23. Yellowknife

Yellowknife

Canada’s northern lights capital sits in the Northwest Territories. Yellowknife is one of the best places on earth to catch the aurora—up to 240 nights a year, they say. But there’s more here than just chasing lights. Try dog sledding or snowshoeing in the winter, and you’ll get why people love it.

In summer, float plane tours show off the wild landscape from above. It’s a totally different vibe when the sun barely sets. The Northern Frontier Visitors Centre is a solid starting point. You’ll pick up local history and some insider tips.

Museums dive into mining and Indigenous culture. The city has a quirky mix of stories and characters—never boring. Winter brings ice fishing and cultural experiences, while summer is for canoeing and hiking. There’s always something to do, no matter the season.

The remote setting means dark, clear skies—perfect for aurora viewing. If seeing the northern lights is on your list, this is the place.

22. Okanagan Valley

Okanagan Valley

The Okanagan Valley stretches through British Columbia like a warm, sun-soaked dream. Lakes, vineyards, and charming towns dot the region. Kelowna is the main hub—great for exploring Okanagan Lake or hiking up Knox Mountain Park. The city is lively, with plenty of restaurants and breweries.

Smaller towns each bring their own twist. Penticton sits between two lakes, Osoyoos boasts Canada’s warmest lake and desert scenery, and Vernon offers mountain views plus outdoor fun. Wine lovers, you’re in luck. Hundreds of wineries offer tastings with epic views. Summer is made for vineyard hopping here.

Come winter, Big White Ski Resort brings powder snow and family-friendly slopes. Ski all day, then unwind with some local wine—hard to beat. Road trips are the way to go. The drive from Kelowna to Osoyoos takes about an hour, but you’ll want to stop for beaches, fruit stands, and all those tasting rooms along the way.

21. Gros Morne National Park

Gros Morne National Park

Gros Morne National Park hugs Newfoundland’s west coast. This UNESCO World Heritage Site covers 1,805 square kilometers of wild, dramatic scenery. Ancient geological formations tell Earth’s story here. The Tablelands expose ocean floor rock that’s millions of years old—pretty mind-blowing.

Western Brook Pond offers boat tours through jaw-dropping fjords carved by glaciers long ago. Trails suit all levels, from easy walks to mountain climbs. Hikers can pick their own adventure.

Wildlife is everywhere. You might spot moose, black bears, or caribou if you’re lucky.

The park also has beaches and ocean views. Rocky Point and Lobster Cove are perfect for relaxing by the sea. Nearby communities serve up authentic Newfoundland culture and food. Expect traditional music and some of the freshest seafood around.

20. Whitehorse

Whitehorse

Whitehorse sits right on the Yukon River, way up north. This capital city has about 25,000 people and strikes a balance between city life and wild surroundings. Check out the SS Klondike National Historic Site for a taste of gold rush history. The Yukon Wildlife Preserve lets you see local animals up close—always a crowd-pleaser.

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Emerald Lake is stunning and totally worth a photo stop. Downtown, you’ll find decent restaurants and shops for browsing. Winter brings northern lights, while summer means endless daylight for hiking and river adventures.

Guided nature tours show off the area’s wildlife, and the Yukon River running through town makes everything feel a bit more epic. Whitehorse is a handy base for exploring the territory. You can branch out easily while still enjoying the city’s creature comforts.

19. Kluane National Park and Reserve

Kluane National Park and Reserve

Kluane National Park sits in the Yukon near the Alaska border. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is massive—over 22,000 square kilometers of wild space. Mount Logan, Canada’s tallest mountain, towers here. Seventeen of Canada’s twenty highest peaks rise in the park, and glaciers cover huge swaths, creating some of the world’s largest non-polar icefields.

Wildlife thrives. Grizzly bears, black bears, and wolves roam the valleys. You might spot Dall sheep on rocky slopes or caribou crossing open spaces. Hiking trails and water activities on lakes and rivers keep things interesting. Indigenous cultural sites tell stories of the land’s deep history.

Stargazing is unreal thanks to low light pollution. Winter ups your chances of seeing the northern lights streak across the sky.

18. Lunenburg

Lunenburg

This colorful fishing town on Nova Scotia’s coast is easy to love. Lunenburg is one of just two urban UNESCO World Heritage Sites in North America. Bright wooden buildings line the harbor, and the whole place is walkable in an afternoon—no need to rush.

Start with the Bluenose II schooner. This replica of Canada’s legendary sailing ship is docked right in the harbor and hard to miss. The Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic dives into Nova Scotia’s fishing past. Old boats, sea stories, and a glimpse at life on the water—it’s all here.

German heritage runs deep, so you’ll find schnitzel and sauerkraut at local spots. Try Solomon Gundy, a pickled herring dish that’s a local favorite—though it’s not for everyone. The waterfront is made for photos, and walking tours help you dig into the town’s 300-year history and unique architecture.

17. Calgary

Calgary

The largest city in Alberta, Calgary is situated between the Canadian Prairies and the foothills of the Canadian Rockies. After oil was discovered nearby in the early 1900s, Calgary boomed into what is now one of Canada’s largest metropolitan areas, attracting thousands every year to its world-famous rodeo event, the Calgary Stampede.

While Calgary is comprised of several neighborhoods, the downtown core is where the commercial, entertainment and shopping districts are located. Stephen Avenue Walk and Barclay Mall are two popular pedestrian zones.

Calgary is home to a large number of skyscrapers with observation decks offering incredible views of the city and Rocky Mountains. The most notable of these are The Bow and Calgary Tower. There are also many family attractions including a world-class zoo, amusement parks, botanical gardens, a hands-on science center.

While the city plays host to several annual festivals of music, film and dance, the most famous is the Calgary Stampede, an Old West celebration held over ten days in July with rodeos, chuckwagon races, parades and competitions.

16. Dawson City

Dawson City

Step into Dawson City, Yukon, and it feels like you’ve time-traveled straight back to the gold rush. This remote northern town keeps its gold rush history alive with preserved buildings and a gritty, authentic charm you don’t see much anymore. The infamous Sourtoe Cocktail is waiting for anyone bold enough at the Downtown Hotel. Thousands have gulped it down—just don’t swallow the real human toe bobbing in your glass. (Seriously, don’t.)

Summer nights barely get dark under the midnight sun, while winter skies explode with northern lights. The extremes here? They’re wild, unforgettable, and a little bit addictive. Locals still pan for gold along the creeks. Maybe you’ll get lucky, or maybe you’ll just get wet and muddy—either way, it’s worth trying once for the story alone.

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Getting to Dawson City isn’t exactly easy. The town is tucked deep in Canada’s wilderness, so just arriving feels like you’ve accomplished something real. Dusty streets lined with historic buildings create a frontier vibe you simply can’t fake.

15. Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park

Algonquin Provincial Park might be Ontario’s crown jewel when it comes to natural beauty. It sprawls over 7,600 square kilometers—huge, wild, and full of surprises. Since 1893, this place has been drawing explorers. Its name comes from the Algonquin First Nations, meaning “at the place of spearing fishes and eels.”

Hiking is a must, especially on the Lookout Trail if you want those classic views. Canoeing and kayaking are practically a rite of passage here, with endless lakes to paddle. And if you’re lucky, you might spot a moose, black bear, or one of the many birds darting through the trees. The Algonquin Visitor Centre is a good first stop for tips and trail info. The Logging Museum gives you a glimpse into the area’s rough-and-tumble past.

Camping under the stars? Absolutely. And since the park’s just a few hours from Toronto, it’s ideal for weekend getaways—or longer, if you can swing it.

14. St. John’s

St. John's

St. John’s claims the title of North America’s oldest city and Canada’s easternmost capital. You can’t miss the colorful row houses—they’re practically the city’s signature. Signal Hill towers over the harbor, with sweeping views of the Atlantic. The site’s packed with stories from the days when messages first zipped across the ocean.

Cape Spear Lighthouse marks the continent’s edge. Walking the rocky coastline out there feels a little epic, honestly. Downtown St. John’s is legendary for its nightlife—George Street alone is two blocks of pure energy, with more bars per capita than anywhere else in Canada. Live music pours out of every doorway.

Locals here are famously friendly. Don’t be surprised if someone strikes up a conversation or shares a bit of local lore. The seafood’s fresh, and the culture is like nowhere else in the country. Walking tours are a solid way to get your bearings and soak up the city’s seafaring past. The hiking trails nearby? They’ll show you rugged coastlines and maybe a puffin or two if you’re lucky.

13. Ottawa

Ottawa

Located at the meeting point of three rivers, Ottawa is Canada’s capital city, home to the sixth-largest population in the country – and growing. Unusually, the city is bilingual. Don’t be surprised to hear people speaking a mix of English and French; both are first languages here.

Previously known as Bytown, Ottawa was once a lumber town, with many mills built along the Ottawa River in the middle of the 19th century. Today, it’s a beautiful green city filled with blissful parks and waterways. Biking is popular in the summer months, and these trails are converted to ski trails come winter. Running right through the heart of the city, the Rideau Canal is a must visit. In winter the canal becomes the world’s largest ice skating ring.

One of the main things to do is visit the Byward Market. But if you’re interested in history, you’re in for a treat. While it may not be Canada’s official cultural capital, Ottawa is home to some spectacular historic buildings, such as the National Library and Archives – the fourth largest library in the world.

As the nation’s capital, Ottawa is home to many federal establishments including Parliament Hill, the government seat where the ceremonial Changing of the Guard takes place daily during the summer.

12. Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park takes the crown as the biggest in the Canadian Rockies. Over 11,000 square kilometers of untouched wilderness stretch out in every direction. Lakes and waterfalls here are next-level beautiful. Maligne Lake always tops the must-see list—don’t skip the boat ride across those glassy waters with mountains all around.

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Hop on the Jasper SkyTram for a bird’s-eye view above the treeline. It’s hard not to feel small with endless peaks rolling away beneath you. Trails wind through canyons and meadows, and wildlife is everywhere—elk, bears, mountain goats. You’ll probably spot something, even if it’s just a squirrel with attitude.

The drive from Banff to Jasper? It’s not just a way to get here—it’s one of the world’s most jaw-dropping scenic routes. Glaciers, forests, mountains—you’ll want to pull over every ten minutes. If you can, stay for a few days. There’s just too much beauty to rush through.

11. Bay of Fundy

Bay of Fundy

The Bay of Fundy stretches between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, famous for having the world’s highest tides. Twice a day, about 160 billion tons of seawater surge in and out. Sometimes, the water level jumps by as much as 52 feet between low and high tide—seriously wild to witness.

At low tide, you can wander right on the ocean floor. A few hours later, the water sweeps back in and swallows the whole place again. Thanks to all those nutrients churning around, whale watching here is next-level. Humpback, fin, and minke whales are regulars. Every now and then, a blue whale might even make an appearance if you’re lucky.

Trails wind along the rugged coast, passing sea caves and cliffs that look like they’ve been sculpted by some moody artist. There’s plenty to check out if you like exploring.

Scattered along the bay, you’ll stumble across old-school fishing villages. Try kayaking along the shore, or just poke around for beach treasures—there’s usually something interesting washed up. Parks Canada offers camping and activities nearby. Those wild tides? They pretty much guarantee everyone finds some kind of adventure, no matter your experience.

10. Churchill

Churchill

It may only be a small town of 1,000 residents, but Churchill draws huge crowds every year to see its most famous inhabitants, the polar bears. Nicknamed the “Polar Bear Capital of the World,” Churchill is located in the Manitoba province on the Hudson Bay shore. In addition to polar bears, Churchill is also the place to go for viewing beluga whales, birds and the aurora borealis.

The best time to see polar bears in Churchill is October and November when the bears migrate to the shores, hunting for marine food. The tourism industry here provides tours and vehicles called tundra buggies for the safety of both tourists and the bears.

In the summer months, tour operations take people out on the water to see the beluga whales, which migrate here by the thousands. Some tourists even don swimsuits and swim with the whales. With more than 270 species of birds, Churchill is also a birdwatcher’s paradise. Thousands of birders visit the area every summer to glimpse species like snowy owls, gyrfalcons, stilt sandpipers and tundra swans.

Churchill also presents an excellent spot to see the aurora borealis, or northern lights. Normally, the peak time to see this natural marvel is between January and March. The primary ways of reaching Churchill are by airplane and train. Train connections are from Winnipeg and Thompson.

9. Cape Breton Island

Cape Breton Island© Paul Mckinnon / Dreamstime

While it’s located in north-eastern Nova Scotia, Cape Breton Island was once its own independent colony until it was forced to merge in 1820. As it welcomed thousands of Scottish expats in the early 19th-century, it remains the only place in North America where you’ll hear Gaelic spoken, with a host of traditional Scottish music concerts on offer.

In addition to the Scots, Cape Breton also has a healthy French population, with the 18th-century Fortress of Louisbourg a major highlight. A fascinating Mi’kmaq community adds to the pleasant mixture of cultural influences.

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Whale watching here is unforgettable. Sightings are just about guaranteed at the northern tip (the top of the island), which you can reach with a boat or kayak tour – the scenery alone makes it worth the trip.

Among its spectacular landscapes, the highlight is undoubtedly Cape Breton Highlands National Park with its phenomenal Cabot Trail and gorgeous lookout points. Don’t forget the scenic fishing villages such as Bay St. Lawrence, where you’ll find some excellent seafood.

8. Montreal

Montreal

Montreal is the second-largest city in the Quebec province, located where the St Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers meet. Montreal is Canada’s capital of culture. It’s also one of the most diverse, energetic, welcoming, and forward-thinking cities in North America, with modern street art, an energetic breed of musicians, and a great party scene in its newer parts.

While English is spoken, it’s not the most common language; it’s actually the second-largest city in the world to speak French as a first language outside of France. So it’s easy to see why it’s earned its nickname as the ‘Paris of North America.’

Montreal’s cityscape is a pleasure to visit all year round. It’s especially beautiful in autumn when the trees turn burnt orange around the iconic cityscape. Old Montreal is the highlight with its cobbled streets, quaint museums, and historical buildings, some of which date back to the 17th-century. Don’t miss the chance to climb up the clock tower in the Quai de l’Horloge for some exceptional views over the St. Laurence River and the city in the distance.

Exciting shopping districts include the downtown underground complex, the Carrefour Laval mall and the colorful Bonsecours Market.

7. Whistler

Whistler

Thanks to a couple of spectacular mountains called Whistler and Blackcomb, the Whistler resort is the largest and most famous alpine ski destination in North America. Located in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia in western Canada, Whistler is a two-hour trip from Vancouver along Canada’s most scenic drive, the Sea-to-Sky Highway.

At the base of the two mountains are three quaint villages, Whistler Village, Creekside and Upper Village. The Peak 2 Peak gondola transports visitors from the villages to the mountains.

Whistler had humble beginnings as a logging town. After the 1960 Olympics in Squaw Valley, a ski resort was built on London Mountain as a potential destination for the 1968 Winter Olympics. However, this wasn’t achieved until the 2010 Winter Olympics. In an attempt to steer away from its misleading name, London Mountain was renamed Whistler Mountain because of the whistle-like sound made by the native hoary marmots living in the mountains here.

Today, Whistler has many world-class ski resorts and offers extraordinary views from its mountain slopes that bring adventurers back year after year. Aside from snow sports, the mountains also make for great hiking and rock climbing opportunities.

6. Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island, named after the British explorer George Vancouver, is the largest island off the West Coast of the North American continent. Surrounded by the waters of the Pacific, it’s a truly photogenic island filled with glistening lakes, impressive waterfalls, magical fjords, and glacial mountains that are popularly explored by hikers. Outdoorsy travelers are attracted by the weather; it has the mildest climate in Canada.

The island is best known for the gorgeous Butchart Gardens, the surf town of Tofino and the wilderness in the north, where one can catch a ferry to Prince Rupert, and another to Alaska from there. Vancouver Island is also a wildlife hotspot.

Not only does it offer some of the best whale watching in the world – you can even kayak with orca – but it’s also a great spot for bird watching and grizzly bear sightings. As the island is sparsely populated, with most of the population living in Victoria – the capital of BC – you can really soak up the magic of the outdoors.

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One of the best places for a walk in nature is in Strathcona Provincial Park, where you’ll find most of the spectacular scenery on the island. Visit Cathedral Grove with its ancient forest, or tee off on one of the many fantastic golf courses.

5. Quebec City

Quebec City

Quebec City may be the capital of the Quebec province in eastern Canada, but its French heritage, architecture and language make it appear more like a charming European village.

Perched on a hill overlooking the St. Lawrence River is Vieux Quebec, the city’s historic district, which is the only North American city still retaining its original walls. A walk along the cobblestone streets of the Old City offers encounters with old buildings like the Citadel and historic sites like the Place-Royale, the area where explorer, Samuel de Camplain, established the first North American-French settlement. Cafes, shops and bars are peppered throughout the Old City.

The city’s icon, the stunning Chateau Frontenac, is regarded as the most photographed hotel in North America and offers tours even without an overnight stay. Another impressive hotel is the Ice Hotel. Open from January to April, this unique hotel features rooms with beautiful ice sculptures.

Outside the city center are several beautiful and historic parks like Montgomery Falls and Plains of Abraham, which offer breathtaking waterfalls, outdoor recreation and history of the area.

4. Toronto

Toronto

The sprawling city of Toronto is the most densely populated city in Canada, with nearly three million residents. Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Toronto forms part of the Golden Horseshoe region, which encompasses the area from the lake to Niagara Falls.

As the provincial capital of the Ontario province, Toronto is also one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with just shy of 100 ethnic communities calling it home. It’s one of the only places in Canada where more than half of the residents were not born in the country. But it’s this melting pot that makes Toronto what it is. Some of the street signs are written in different languages, and diverse neighborhoods have their own distinctive cuisine.

There’s so much culture to be found in the inner city proper amongst its towering skyscrapers and thousands of multi-cultural restaurants.

One of the most popular attractions on the tourist trail is the CN Tower, the tallest free-standing structure in the world (until it was trumped by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai). It offers an extraordinary uninterrupted view of the city from its observation deck, skypod, and the 360 Restaurant. But it’s worth it for a ride up in the glass-enclosed elevator alone!

3. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is a series of three awe-inspiring waterfalls situated on the border of Canada’s Ontario and the United States’ New York. The Ontario side of the Falls is called Horseshoe Falls and offers the best views and most attractions. The immediate area surrounding the Falls is a premier tourist spot teeming in observation towers, restaurants, souvenir shops, casinos and high-rise hotels.

Its sister city in New York is known as the ‘honeymoon capital of the world,’ and one of the only places where you can get a marriage license without a waiting period. Those looking for both romance and adventure will find it here, with a long list of exciting things to see and do.

One of the best places to view the Niagara Falls on the Ontario side is from Queen Victoria Park where the Falls are illuminated and fireworks are displayed nightly during the summer. See them from above or below – it’s your choice – with helicopter tours, jet boat tours, an observation deck next to Skylon Tower, and elevators that take you down behind the falls.

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2. Vancouver

Vancouver

The massive city of Vancouver is one of the largest in Canada. Located in south-western British Columbia, it’s a famous foodie hotspot – especially for seafood, like its celebrated freshly caught prawns and wild salmon. Because of its melting pot of cultures, you’ll find no shortage of mixed cuisine here, making dining out one of the city’s simple, but by no means underrated, pleasures.

Vancouver’s star attraction is Stanley Park. Covering 1,000 acres of woodlands, gardens and green spaces, this park features an aquarium, water park and the picturesque Seawall. Some of Vancouver’s other top sites include Granville Island’s remarkable food market and Canada Place’s waterfront complex housing the Vancouver Convention Center. One of Vancouver’s most popular neighborhood is Chinatown with it’s vibrant array of shops, restaurants and stunning gardens.

Nicknamed the ‘Hollywood of the North’ because of its huge TV and film industry, Vancouver is also home to the fourth-largest cruise ship terminal in the world. As many as 900,000 passengers pass through the terminal every year, with many cruises making their way onwards to Alaska.

With both beaches and ski slopes within easy reach, Vancouver has been rated as one of the world’s best cities to live in. Home to happy and active people who spend their days rollerblading, jogging, and dog walking along in the Seawall or playing a game of volleyball on Kitsilano Beach, Vancouver is a big destination for outdoorsy activities. Don’t leave without the chance to take a dip in Canada’s longest pool – it’s almost three times the size of a normal Olympic swimming pool!

1. Banff National Park

Banff National Park

Tucked away in the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is the oldest national park in Canada, and also one of its largest. Because of its sheer size and remote location, many people are drawn to this untouched piece of the globe for the isolation alone – outside of Banff and Lake Louise – the park’s two points of civilization – that is.

There are two popular routes through the park, but it doesn’t matter too much which you choose. Both are filled with jaw-dropping scenery, from glistening multi-colored lakes and dramatic canyons to beautiful viewpoints and majestic waterfalls. Whether you have your own car is not important, as shuttles service most of the key attractions in the park.

Active travelers will be in their element here with the chance to snowshoe or paddle the lake, while wildlife watchers will have an adventure all of their own. Banff National Park is filled with animals – the most eagerly anticipated sighting being, of course, the grizzly bear.

The town of Banff is the park’s primary settlement, offering the most variety of lodging, shopping and dining. Accessed by the Icefields Parkway, Lake Louise offers luxurious accommodation in a gorgeous setting of turquoise lakes and majestic mountains. Lake Minnewanka and Sunshine Meadows are other smaller villages.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. peter says

    April 11, 2018 at 5:30 am

    actually i prefer calgary. to me its one of the best places in canada. and also one of the biggest and beautiful

    Reply
  2. William Low says

    June 28, 2017 at 11:19 pm

    I have visit Vancouver twice, really a very beautiful country. People there are nice, places are clean, scenery is awesome.

    Reply
  3. prince says

    April 21, 2017 at 8:24 am

    Canada is soo beautiful place. i would like to visit atleast once.

    Reply
  4. Linda says

    February 21, 2017 at 3:15 pm

    I think your list should include the great outdoor. Canada has some lovely cities but almost anywhere can take you outdoors. The maritimes for short trips and the Rocky Mountains for the longer trips. But Ontario is beautiful as well.

    Reply
  5. Arleen says

    November 24, 2016 at 7:51 am

    I will visit canada soon,its one of my bucketlist in north america.

    Reply
  6. Sadie says

    May 9, 2016 at 9:19 pm

    Victoria Island was amazing! It’s not on the list, but it is still a great place to check out! Parts of it reminded me of Europe

    Reply
  7. Dave says

    March 22, 2016 at 5:06 pm

    Calgary is a boring place. Just fly into it and head to Banff. Nothing worth seeing in Calgary unless you are there during the Stampede which is a 10 day period in early July. The Rockies and Vancouver are better places to go to visit.

    Reply
  8. Shemeela Sasikumar says

    January 9, 2016 at 6:51 am

    My son resides and works in Toronto. He has posted lovely pictures of places he had visited in Canada, thus awakening a desire in me to visit that country. Also, the story of Anne of Green Gables in Prince Edward Island aroused an interest in me to see that part of the world.

    Reply
  9. Ajayi samuel says

    December 26, 2015 at 4:15 pm

    I would love to live and work in Ottawa Canada.i just love it

    Reply
  10. Gold Awosika says

    August 25, 2015 at 7:33 am

    Oh, all these spots are amazing to be seen, but I give it to Toronto!!! Diverse ethnic presence, you can’t be fed up of fun can you? Different people to learn their ways of live and all that.

    Reply
  11. Genanaw says

    May 8, 2015 at 5:19 am

    I would like to visit Canada!

    Reply
  12. Sunanda says

    December 8, 2014 at 8:25 am

    It’s incredibly beautiful. I would like to visit these places of Canada once in my life.

    Reply
  13. Meo says

    February 14, 2014 at 11:21 pm

    I’d also recommend PEI if you want something less urbanized and more cozy, country. Whitehorse/Yellowknife between Sept-Mar for the northern lights!!

    Reply
  14. Kayla says

    October 31, 2013 at 8:21 am

    These Places Are Beautiful

    Reply
  15. Carlene Lowe says

    October 12, 2013 at 12:50 am

    Banff is one place in Canada that captured my heart. It is so beautiful, peaceful and something like there’s a magical feeling when you’re there. Canada is really a must visit country. Thanks

    Reply
  16. The Local Traveler says

    August 13, 2013 at 2:04 am

    You should check out Nova Scotia next time you head to Canada! Halifax is great, of course, but we have some amazing rural areas. Hiking the highlands and having a run-in with a moose, shopping in Lunenburg (a UNESCO world heritage site) and then stopping into The Ovens, winery and craft beer tours, rafting, tubing, wakeboarding, and more!

    This is a great list. I love the polar bear pic, too! Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  17. Jack says

    August 7, 2013 at 12:15 am

    The Banff National Park looks simply amazing, at least on this picture. Makes me willing to visit Canada even more. One day, one day…

    Reply
  18. Debra says

    July 31, 2013 at 10:30 am

    I have wanted to visit Calgary ever since the hosted the Olympics. And although it’s kinda embarrassing to admit it, I got a first had look at Whistler on a couple of episodes of Real Housewives of Orange County. It looked exquisite. Canada is one of my bucket list places to visit.

    Reply

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