Despite being the second-largest country in the world, Canada is often overlooked as a tourist destination in favour of its southern neighbour, the United States. Although Canada is both younger as a country and smaller in population, that does not mean that it is any less rich in culture, activities, and things to see or do. So, here are now our Best Places to Visit in Canada.
Thanks to the vast and beautiful land, along with the largest coastline of any country, the best places to visit in Canada are its breathtaking natural scenes. Including but not limited to monoliths, mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, lakes, and three oceans, Canada’s natural features are endless.
When is the Best Time to Visit Canada?
The fact of the matter is, any time is the best time to visit Canada. Across the country, there are lots of great destinations to visit. Both in the summer and the winter, and all seasons in between there are sites to see. From east to west, from urban centres to scenic natural landscapes, Canada is a great destination no matter when you want to travel.
Scenic image of Ottawa Parliament at night. Image via Unsplash by @naveenkumar
If you decide to take a trip to the Great White North, the following destinations are essential places you need to experience at least once.
There are so many best and most beautiful places to visit in Canada. Too many to mention but would love to name some.
Experience the Bustling City of Toronto
One of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, there is an endless list of interesting things to do and see in Toronto. Toronto is the most populated city in Canada and the fourth-most in North America. According to government census information, close to half of the population of Toronto was born outside of Canada. As a result of this, Toronto has come to be a central hub to experience a variety of cultures. All within a few kilometres of the area. The fact that you can easily walk between cultural centres makes Toronto one of the best places to visit in Canada.
An image of a TTC Streetcar on a Toronto street. Image via Unsplash by @nathsegato
Some popular international neighbourhoods to note are Chinatown, Koreatown, Greektown, Little Tokyo, and Little Italy to name a few. The best way to find them all is to walk around the downtown core. You are destined to stumble upon many pockets of culture from around the world.
Thanks to having so much international influence. The best places to visit in Toronto besides its regular tourist spots are restaurants. If you decide to take a holiday in the city, you could have a unique cuisine for every meal made by people from that culture. It really is a xenophile’s dream come true.
The Best of Both Worlds: The Rich Province of Québec
The province of Québec is a must-visit place in Canada purely because it has much to do and see. It is full of amazing places to experience in both its urban and rural settings.
While Montréal has fewer skyscrapers than Toronto, its skyline is still stunning! Image via Unsplash by @marcojodoin
Montréal and Québec City are the two largest cities in Québec. In each of these cities respectively, you can be sure that you will have the best bagels and croissants. Of course, if you are in Québec you must also try the famous French-Canadian dish, poutine.
Every winter, Canada becomes a hub for winter sports and attracts thousands of skiers and snowboarders to the country. Thanks to Québec’s unique geography and natural attractions, it too has a place amongst the popular skiing destinations. Additionally in the summer, you can get a beautiful view of the cliffs. Moreover, the waterfalls that appear in the Québec countryside.
Though, this magnificent natural beauty remains throughout the whole year-round. Québec’s landscapes boast natural features including unique rock formations and glaciers that are sure to be unforgettable.
Montmorency Falls from the bottom. Image by Unsplash by @romainbphoto
Historical and Heritage Experiences
Canada may not be very old as a country. But humans have been living on this land for thousands of years, even before colonisation. These people are the indigenous peoples of Canada.
With a long history and rich culture, there is an endless amount to learn about the indigenous groups all across Canada. Depending on where you are going, you can easily find indigenous tourism. This will interest and educate you with a quick web search.
Another pre-colonization group that made a historical mark in Canada are the Vikings. Thanks to talented archaeological research and discoveries, L’Anse aux Meadows in Newfoundland became the only verified Viking settlement in North America. It is now a National Historic Site, and you can also visit it for yourself.
See the Most on the West Coast
Jasper, Alberta during the autumn season. Image via Unsplash via @sterlinglanier
If your goal is to see the most natural beauty you can as close together as possible, then you should visit Canadian cities near the west coast. There are several cities in British Columbia and Alberta that are situated around the Rocky Mountains.
With the Rockies and some of the most gorgeous forests in the world, the west coast has the most breathtaking views even from within some cities. These cities are Vancouver, Kamloops, Jasper, and Banff, just to name some of the more popular places to visit.
Take a Trip Through the Rockies?
If you are doing a big tour of many Canadian cities, taking the train can be cheaper and is definitely more scenic than flying. Canada has a passenger rail system that spans the length of the country. Also, it passes through some of the most beautiful landscapes you can see.
Taking the train does not have to just be a commute. There are also tickets available for trains that operate rail service through the Rocky Mountains. If you get the opportunity to ride it, it is one of the most scenic rail trips you can take in Canada or the world.
An image of train traffic going through scenic Morant’s Curve. Image via Unsplash by @epiccanada
Conclusion
Whether you are planning on visiting only a select city or doing a tour across the country, there is something great to experience in every part of Canada. Perfect for both veteran travellers and newbies alike, there is something for everyone here.
Image of a scenic view of Quebec City in the winter. Image via Unsplash via @geenens_tim
For those who love the outdoors, Canada is the best place for camping, hiking, and outdoor sports. In the cultural centres of the country, foodies thrive on all the best food Canada has to offer. The cherry on top is the rich history and culture to learn beneath the surface. Despite its youth, it is a lively country with nice people, great food, and even greater views.
I hope you enjoyed our Best Places to Visit in Canada. Have fun!
Hi! It’s me! I am a hospitality professional and a part-time blogger! I am a travel dreamer and world conqueror based in Rome, Italy.
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