Travel Guides

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• Canada has so many amazing landscapes for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural vultures.

• From coastlines to mountains, old towns to big cities, Canada has something for every kind of traveler.

• The rich cultural diversity of Canada adds to the travel experience with unique festivals, food and art.

The expansive country of Canada is a destination to be reckoned with. With diverse landscapes and friendly people, Canada has pockets of beauty and charm all over the country with great food scenes, outdoor escapes and natural wonders. Whether it’s the lakes, the gardens or the cities as a whole, Canada has got it all that makes your trip worth it.

Whether you're exploring the bustling streets of Toronto or the majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies, there are countless best places to visit in Canada that promise to make your trip unforgettable. No wonder people flock to Canada for adventure and fun. Check out these must-visit places in Canada so you know which ones to add to your itinerary.
 

1. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the most famous natural wonders of the world. It is situated on the border of Ontario, Canada and New York, USA. Comprising three waterfalls - Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, it has breathtaking views and lots of activities for visitors.

The most famous of the three is Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side. You can get up close with a boat tour on the Maid of the Mist or Hornblower Cruises. These boats take you right into the mist and you get an unforgettable view of the water.

If you don’t want to get wet, Journey Behind the Falls is the way to go. This attraction takes you through tunnels behind Horseshoe Falls and you get to see the water up close. Another popular spot is the Skylon Tower with an observation deck and a revolving restaurant with views of the falls and the surrounding area.

Niagara isn’t just about the waterfalls. The Niagara Parkway is a scenic drive along the Niagara River with beautiful views and access to many attractions. You can visit the Butterfly Conservatory with thousands of butterflies or take a stroll through the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens. If you’re into history, the Niagara Falls History Museum will give you the lowdown on the area. Fort George, a historic military site, has reenactments and tours nearby.

2. Banff National Park & the Rocky Mountains
 

Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, Banff National Park is Canada’s oldest national park. It was established in 1885 and spread over 6,600 square kilometers of wilderness. What you get is breathtaking landscapes, wildlife and endless outdoor activities.

One of the park’s most famous attractions is Lake Louise, with its turquoise water and mountain backdrop. You can canoe on the lake or hike the trails nearby, like the popular Lake Agnes Tea House hike. Moraine Lake is another must-see, with equally stunning views that are great for photography.

The Icefields Parkway is a must-drive that leads from Banff to Jasper National Park. This 232km drive takes you past glaciers, waterfalls and valleys. You can access the Columbia Icefield along this route and may take a guided tour of the Athabasca Glacier and the Glacier Skywalk.

If you want adventure, Banff National Park has plenty. Hiking is a big draw here, with trails from easy walks to backcountry routes. Popular trails are Johnston Canyon, with waterfalls and Sulphur Mountain Trail, which has a gondola ride for those who want a more relaxing option.

Come December and Banff turns into a winter wonderland. Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and ice climbing are the main events held here. It has world-class resorts like Banff Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Ski Resort.

 

3. Quebec

Quebec, the biggest province in Canada, is a fantastic destination with a rich history, culture and landscapes. The capital city, Quebec City, is one of the oldest European settlements in North America.

The historic district of Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec) is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cobblestone streets, city walls and 17th-century architecture will transport you back in time. Must see are the famous Château Frontenac, the Plains of Abraham and the charming Petit-Champlain district.

Montreal, the biggest city in Quebec, is a cultural and artistic hub. The city has many festivals throughout the year, including the Montreal International Jazz Festival and Just for Laughs, to name a few. Visitors can explore the historic Old Montreal, visit the beautiful Notre-Dame Basilica and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Jean-Talon Market. Mount Royal, a big park in the middle of the city, has hiking trails and panoramic views.

Quebec is also known for its natural beauty. The province has many national parks, like Mont-Tremblant National Park, where you can hike, ski and canoe. The Laurentian Mountains are famous for their fall foliage and offer many recreational activities.

The food scene is a big hit for many visitors. Quebec is famous for its poutine, a dish of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. Maple syrup is another local specialty and is celebrated during the sugaring-off season in the spring. The French heritage is evident in the fine dining restaurants with exquisite cuisine and wine.

For history and culture buffs, the Musée de la Civilisation in Quebec City and the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts are must-sees. The many festivals in the province like Winter Carnival in Quebec City and the Quebec City Summer Festival will give you a taste of local traditions.

4. Whistler

Whistler is a world-famous resort town in British Columbia, Canada. Located in the Coast Mountains it was the host of the 2010 Winter Olympics. The town is only a 2-hour drive from Vancouver, so it’s super easy to get to for tourists.

In the winter, Whistler becomes a snow sports paradise. Whistler Blackcomb, one of the largest ski resorts in North America, has over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain. Skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions with slopes for all levels. The Peak 2 Peak Gondola that connects Whistler and Blackcomb mountains is a must-visit for the views and the experience. Beyond skiing, Whistler has many other winter activities. Snowshoeing, snowmobiling, golfing, and ice skating are popular.

For a chill experience, visitors can visit the Scandinave Spa, which has outdoor hot baths and spa treatments. Hiking is another favorite tourist attraction here, with numerous trails offering stunning views. The Garibaldi Lake and Joffre Lakes trails are particularly popular.

Whistler also hosts many events and festivals throughout the year. The Whistler Film Festival, Crankworx Mountain Bike Festival and Whistler Village Beer Festival are some of the highly attended events here.
 

5. Jasper National Park

Established in 1907, Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, covering over 11,000 square kilometers. One of the park’s main attractions is the scenery. You can see towering mountain peaks, alpine meadows and glacial lakes. To get even a better view try the Columbia Icefield Skywalk. This glass-floored observation platform extends 280 meters (918 feet) above the Sunwapta Valley, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and valleys.

Outdoor enthusiasts can hike along its popular trails, like the Valley of the Five Lakes or the Maligne Canyon, which is a limestone gorge. If you want more adventure, there’s mountain biking, rock climbing and kayaking.

The park holds a major pull for wildlife enthusiasts. It has a wide range of animals, including elk, moose, deer, bears, and even a variety of birds. The park’s diverse ecosystems support a wide range of flora and fauna, so you can see wildlife in their natural habitat.

Jasper Park is also a Dark Sky Preserve so it’s a great place to stargaze. The annual Jasper Dark Sky Festival in October brings in astronomy lovers from around the world. The clear skies are perfect for seeing the Milky Way, planets and meteor showers.
 

6. Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island situated off the coast of British Columbia, Canada, presents visitors with beautiful landscapes and tons of outdoor activities. You can get here by ferry from Vancouver or by air from many Canadian cities.

There are a lot of things to do in Vancouver amidst its British colonial charm. You can visit the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel and the beautiful Butchart Gardens. Explore the Royal BC Museum, walk along the Inner Harbour, and check out the many shops and restaurants in the downtown area.

The island's west coast is famous for its wild and untamed beauty. The Pacific Rim National Park Reserve includes the iconic Long Beach and the Broken Group Islands. It attracts visitors with its stunning beaches, ancient rainforests, and opportunities for surfing, kayaking, and whale watching.

Nanaimo, another major city on the island, has the Nanaimo Bar Trail, a culinary adventure to try the city’s famous dessert. Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park, just outside the city, is great for hiking and picnicking.

The east coast of the island has many charming towns and beautiful beaches. Qualicum Beach and Parksville are among the best places to visit in Canada with family as they have sandy shores and various group activities. The Comox Valley has a mix of outdoor adventures, skiing at Mount Washington in the winter and hiking and biking in the summer.

7. Okanagan Valley

The Okanagan Valley, also in British Columbia, is a beautiful region with amazing scenery and warm weather. From Vernon in the north to Osoyoos in the south, there is something for everyone here.

One of the main attractions of the Okanagan Valley is its wineries. The region is one of Canada’s top wine-producing areas, with over 200 wineries. You can tour vineyards, taste wine and buy local wine. Notable wineries are Mission Hill Family Estate and Quails’ Gate Winery both with great wine and great views.

The valley is also known for its warm sunny weather, making it count among the best places to visit in Canada during summer. Okanagan Lake is the largest lake in the region and is perfect for boating, swimming and fishing. Kelowna, the largest city in the valley, is situated on the lake and has beaches, parks and a lively waterfront area.

Hiking and biking are big in the Okanagan Valley. Myra Canyon has trestle bridges and tunnels and is a scenic trail for hikers and cyclists. Knox Mountain Park in Kelowna has trails with city and lake views.

For a more laid-back experience, visitors can visit the region’s orchards and farms. The valley is famous for its fruit production of apples, cherries, peaches and grapes. Many farms offer U-pick so you can pick your own fresh local produce.

The Okanagan Valley has a thriving food scene. Many restaurants use local ingredients to create their dishes. Farmers’ markets like the Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market showcase local produce, crafts and artisanal products.
 

8. Ottawa

Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, is located in Ontario along the Ottawa River. It’s got a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Parliament Hill is the hub of Ottawa and a major tourist attraction. The gorgeous Gothic Revival buildings are home to the Canadian government. You can take guided tours of the Parliament buildings and watch the Changing of the Guard in the summer. The Centennial Flame on Parliament Hill is a great spot for photos.

The Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, runs through the city and is a major attraction. In the summer, you can boat and paddleboard on the canal. In the winter it becomes the world’s largest skating rink, a real treat. For outdoor types, Gatineau Park, just across the river in Quebec, has hiking, biking and wildlife viewing. In the fall, the park’s fall colors attract many visitors.

Ottawa has many national museums. The Canadian Museum of History tells Canada’s story, and the National Gallery of Canada has an impressive collection of Canadian and international art. The Canadian War Museum and the Canada Aviation and Space Museum are also worth a visit.

The city hosts many festivals throughout the year. The Winterlude Festival is winter fun with ice sculptures and outdoor activities. The Canadian Tulip Festival in spring brings in thousands of visitors.
 

9. Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Cape Breton Highlands National Park on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, is a beautiful park with stunning scenery and wildlife. Spreading over 950 square kilometers, the park has a rugged coastline, forests and highlands.

One of the park’s main attractions is the Cabot Trail, a scenic drive that goes around the northern tip of Cape Breton Island. The Cabot Trail has great views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Atlantic Ocean, with many look-offs along the way. It’s especially popular in the fall when the foliage is red, orange, and yellow.

Hiking is a big draw in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The park has over 26 hiking trails, from easy walks to backcountry routes. The Skyline Trail is one of the most popular hikes with panoramic views of the coastline and whales and eagles. The Franey Trail is a steep hike with great views, and the Middle Head Trail is a coastal hike with ocean views. In addition to hiking and camping, visitors can swim, kayak and fish. The park’s beaches, like Ingonish Beach and Black Brook Beach, are perfect for a day by the water.

Wildlife lovers will find plenty to see in the park. Moose, black bears and bald eagles are common sightings, and the park’s diverse habitats support a wide variety of bird species. The park’s rivers and streams are home to Atlantic salmon and brook trout.

Cultural experiences are also part of a visit to Cape Breton Highlands. The park is located in an area rich with Mi’kmaq, Acadian and Scottish heritage. Visit local music, crafts and traditions at nearby communities and cultural centers.

Conclusion

Canada has so many amazing places to visit, each with its own special charm. From the natural beauty of Jasper National Park and Banff National Park to the history of Old Quebec and the city life of Ottawa, there’s something for everyone. The Okanagan Valley, the Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Quebec’s culture will give you experiences you’ll never forget. Whether you want adventure, relaxation or cultural enrichment, Canada’s top destinations will give you the trip of a lifetime, so it’s a must-see country for all travelers.

FAQs

1. What is the most beautiful part of Canada?

The prettiest part of Canada is subjective, but many people consider the Canadian Rockies, Banff and Jasper National Parks to be the most beautiful. These parks have mountain scenery, lakes and wildlife.

2. What should I consider when choosing travel insurance for my trip to Canada?

When selecting travel insurance for Canada, compare different plans and consider the coverage types, limits, and possible exclusions.
When it comes to international travel, the US Department of State outlines key components that should be included in your travel insurance coverage.
AXA Travel Protection plans are designed with these minimum recommended coverages in mind.

• Medical Coverage – The top priority is making sure your health is in order. With AXA Travel Protection, you can have access to quality healthcare during your trip overseas in the event of unexpected medical emergencies.

• Trip Cancellation & Interruptions – Assistance against unexpected trip disruptions can dampen the mood, AXA Travel Protection offers coverage against unforeseen events.

• Emergency Evacuations and Repatriation – In situations where transportation is dire, AXA Travel Protection offers provisions for emergency evacuation and repatriation.

• Coverage for Personal Belongings – AXA offers coverage for your belongings with assistance against lost or delayed baggage.

• Optional Cancel for Any Reason – For added flexibility, AXA offers optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage, allowing you to cancel your trip for non-traditional reasons. Exclusive to Platinum Plan holders.

3. Where should I go in Canada when visiting for the first time?

For a first-time visit to Canada, Vancouver, Toronto or Quebec City are a good starting point. These cities have culture, landmarks, and access to nature, providing a well-rounded introduction to Canada.
 

4. What are the best places for couples to visit in Canada?

Couples visiting Canada should consider romantic getaways like Niagara Falls, the streets of Old Quebec and Vancouver Island. These places have views, cozy accommodations and lots of activities for a great escape.

5. What is famous in Canada to buy as souvenirs?

Canada is famous for maple syrup, indigenous art and outdoor gear. Souvenirs like maple leaf items, local jewelry and Canadian-made winter wear are popular buys.

6. What are the best hikes for solo backpacking?

 Some of the best hikes for solo backpacking in Canada are the West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island, the Skyline Trail in Jasper National Park and the Long Range Traverse in Gros Morne National Park. These trails have tough terrain, great scenery and solitude.
 

Also Read: Canada, Vancouver