Canada, the second-largest country in the world, offers travellers a wealth of different landscapes, cultures, and experiences. Whether one is travelling for outdoor adventures, vibrant city life, or immersion in culture, Canada has something to offer. Following is a guide on the best things one can do while travelling within Canada-a mix of must-see attractions and off-the-beaten-path gems.
1. Banff and Jasper National Parks
These parks are nature lovers’ paradises apart from being among the most visited in any Canadian adventure. Right in the heart of the Canadian Rockies lie speechless mountain scenery, lakes, and lots of wildlife.
What to do: Hike up Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views, paddle in the iconic turquoise waters of Lake Louise, or drive the Icefields Parkway, which connects Banff and Jasper.
Tip: Visit during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) to avoid the crowds and experience the parks in their full natural beauty.
2. Experience the Multicultural Vibe of Toronto
Toronto is the biggest city in Canada, a busy metropolis full of diversity, with an art vibe that’s off the chain. World-class museums, eclectic neighborhoods, and iconic landmarks, such as the CN Tower, decorate this city.
Things to do: Explore Kensington Market, visit the Art Gallery of Ontario, or take in a Blue Jays baseball game. Take a tour of the historic Distillery District where cobblestone streets lead past galleries and artists’ studios.
Tip: Toronto is very much a city of neighborhoods, so allow yourself time to get lost exploring the streets of Queen Street West, Little Italy, and Chinatown for some authentic experiences.
3. Discover the French Flavor of Quebec City
The city of Quebec is a small chunk of Europe in North America. Narrow, winding cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and French-speaking people lend the city an old-world charm that is far removed from the rest of Canada.
What to do: Take an easy walk around the fortified walls of Old Quebec, see the famous Château Frontenac or head to the bustling Quartier Petit Champlain. Not to be missed: Montmorency Falls is breathtaking and only a few kilometres outside the city.
Tip: If you go in winter, make time for the magical Quebec Winter Carnival, where you’ll find great ice sculptures, parades, and winter sports.
4. See the Magic of the Northern Lights in Yukon
The Yukon is one of the pieces of Canada that offers an utterly unique experience when it comes to the Northern Lights. Clear, dark skies in this far-flung area guarantee one of the best opportunities to see the aurora borealis in full splendor.
What to do: Base yourself around Whitehorse, the Yukon’s capital, and sign up for a guided tour of the northern lights. You might also combine your experience with dog sledding, snowshoeing, or even a soak in the Takhini Hot Springs.
Tip: Go between late August and mid-April to make sure you get the best views of the northern lights.
5. Relax at Calgary Beaches
Although the first things that come to mind might not be beaches, Calgary has a number of man-made lakes and beaches that are fantastic summer destinations. Lying near the foothills of the Rockies, the beaches of Calgary offer a surprising dose of sandy shores and refreshing water activities for locals and tourists alike.
What to do: Hit Sikome Lake in Fish Creek Provincial Park for a swim, a picnic, and some beach volleyball. Or head to Sandy Beach Park along the Elbow River for a riverside walk, a go at paddleboarding, or just plain lounging by the water’s edge. For those seeking something far more private, Calgary has several residential lake communities such as Lake Bonavista and Auburn Bay that offer residents fun and relaxing private beaches.
Tip: Beaches may become very crowded during the summer months; it’s best to go in the early part of the day to secure a good spot near the water. Also, wear sunscreen – the sun is intense here in Calgary due to the high altitude!
6. See the Best of Both Worlds in Vancouver
Vancouver combines the best of urban and outdoor living. Sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the Coastal Mountain range, this west coast city is alive with activities waiting to be experienced.
What to do: Begin with an early morning visit to Stanley Park-seawall cycling and the Vancouver Aquarium are just two of the many options. Visit Granville Island for local artisan markets, or take a day trip up Grouse Mountain for skiing or hiking.
Tip: Vancouver is also your ticket to even more adventures: ferry over to Vancouver Island, or take a road trip to Whistler’s alpine village.
7. See Prince Edward Island’s Scenic Coastline
With its rolling green hills and red-sand beaches, not to mention the oh-so-fictional hero lady Anne of Green Gables, Prince Edward Island, (PEI) to most people, offers a different sort of adventure: laid-back and scenic. Thus, it’s ideal for any traveler in search of a quiet escape in handsome coastal scenery.
What to do: Hit Cavendish Beach, wander around PEI National Park, and chow down on fresh seafood at one of the island’s many seafood shacks. The island is also home to charming small towns and a growing local food scene.
Insider’s Tip: The best way to see the island is by bike-on one of the many cycling trails that crisscross the island, including the Confederation Trail, which runs along the coast with stunning views.
8. Marvel at Niagara Falls
Any trip to Canada should not miss one of the world’s most famous natural sights: Niagara Falls. The brute strength of the falls is a sight to behold, with so many options to experience it up close.
What to do: The falls are close up and personal on a boat tour, walk the Niagara Parkway for great photo opportunities, or take a helicopter ride to get an aerial view of the falls. For a different perspective, visit the falls at night when they are lit up in brilliant colors.
Tip: The nearby town of Niagara-on-the-Lake should be visited due to its wineries, boutique shops, and charming 19th-century architecture.
9. Experience Indigenous Culture in the Northwest Territories:
There are so many thriving Indigenous cultures across Canada; the Northwest Territories offer the opportunity to learn about and take part in these cultures firsthand. Attend the local communities for insight into various aspects of the Indigenous ways of life, art, and history.
What to do: Take part in the Great Northern Arts Festival, held in Inuvik or in the guided traditional fishing experience, and a crafts workshop. The Dene and Inuit will be taking you through the friendly lands and waters.
Tip: Take great respect for the local customs and try to support some Indigenous-owned businesses during your visit.
10. Road Trip Across the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia
Some call the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia one of the most beautiful drives on the face of this earth for ocean views. Take in the dramatic cliffs, rugged coastline, and stunning fall foliage on this 185-mile loop through Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
What to do: Hike the Skyline Trail, go whale watching off the coast, or drive around and take in one of the many quaint fishing villages lining the route. The Cabot Trail is particularly stunning in the fall during autumn color season.
Insider’s Tip: Allow at least two days to work your way around the Cabot Trail and its environs.
11. Discover Ottawa’s Oddball Treasures
Ottawa is often overlooked, but Canada’s capital highlights everything from world-class museums to waterways.
What to do: The things to do include a tour of Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, and taking a boat ride along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In winter, it freezes up and becomes the world’s largest outdoor ice-skating rink.
Tip: Ottawa also holds several festivals in a year such as Winterlude and Canada Day celebrations. Therefore, it is an ideal destination for any cultural and events-loving traveler.
Final Thoughts
From spacious national parks to cultured cities, Canada has options to offer a traveler in plenty. Traveling through Canada, take the time to see both iconic and lesser-known sights, embracing the vastness and variety of the country. Whether you seek adventure, want to relax, or get cultural insight, Canada has all that.
