In this blog, we will guide you through the top tourist destinations in Canada that should be on your travel list. Get ready to discover why Canada is a favourite among tourists worldwide, offering experiences that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind.
Entrance fees: $9.80 for adults; free for 17 and under
Banff is a picture-perfect mountain town and is one of the most beautiful places in Canada. Rocky Mountain peaks pierce the sky, with glaciers glistening in the distance. The town itself is a charming mix of outdoorsy shops and the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, a castle-like landmar.
Banff is a famous resort town for good reason. Hike or bike through the scenic trails, or hit the slopes in winter. Take a dip in the warm Banff Upper Hot Springs, a natural wonder. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife – elk and grizzly bears roam freely in the park. Whether you crave adventure or relaxation, Banff offers a postcard-worthy escape.
Getting There:
Calgary’s international airport has many national and international flights daily.
From the airport, you can rent a car and take Trans-Canada 1 west to the park.
There are also direct bus services and shuttle options from the airport or downtown Calgary to Banff and Lake Louise.
When to Go:
Banff is open year-round with fantastic wildlife viewing, sightseeing, shopping and dining.
Summer activities include hiking, paddling, mountain biking, cycling, photography and climbing.
Fall is ideal for viewing the yellow larch trees, the only coniferous trees that lose their needles in winter.
Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park, Canada's largest in the Rockies, boasts breathtaking wilderness. Towering mountains, vast glaciers and crystal-clear lakes paint a majestic scene. Hike or camp amidst untouched landscapes, spotting elk, moose and even bears.
Unlike bustling Banff, Jasper offers a quieter escape. Explore the turquoise waters of Maligne Lake or cruise on it to see Spirit Island, a photogenic spot. For a unique view, ride the Jasper SkyTram for stunning alpine vistas. At night, gaze at the incredible starry sky in the world's second-largest dark sky preserve. Jasper is a haven for those seeking tranquillity and connection with nature.
How to Get There:
Jasper is at the intersection of Highway 16 (Yellowhead Highway) and Highway 93 N (Icefields Parkway).
It is 225 miles (362 km) west of Edmonton on Highway 16.
From Calgary, take Trans-Canada 1 west, then Highway 93 north from Lake Louise, totalling 256 miles (412 km).
Edmonton and Calgary airports have many daily flights from national and international carriers.
Renting a car from the airport is the easiest way to travel.
Rail travel is available through VIA Rail and the Rocky Mountaineer.
Tour operators offer shuttle services.
When to Go:
The park is open year-round.
Late summer and early fall offer the best weather and scenery.
Fall also has clearer air as the forest fire season winds down, and this time is ideal for photography.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is one of the much-loved and most-visited Canada famous places. It is a thunderous wonder on the Canadian-American border and is a must-see for nature lovers. Three colossal waterfalls, the Horseshoe Falls is the grandest, create a mesmerising spectacle. Feel the spray on boat tours or journeys behind the falls for a unique perspective.
Niagara Falls is not just about the water. Lush greenery surrounds the falls, offering hiking and biking trails. The vibrant nearby cities provide entertainment options, from casinos to historical sites. Niagara Falls welcomes with its natural power, promising an unforgettable experience.
How to Get Around:
WEGO Buses: Affordable and convenient for accessing attractions like Table Rock, Skylon Tower and Horseshoe Falls.
Adventure Pass: This pass, available at Niagara Parks Welcome Centres or online at niagaraparks.com, offers savings on sights and transportation.
Taxis and Carriages: Taxis available downtown; horse-drawn carriage rides in Niagara-on-the-Lake for sightseeing.
When to Go:
June to August is usually busy with summer vacationers; plan a visit in May or September to avoid crowds.
Peak Fall Foliage can be witnessed from mid-to-late October.
November to March is cold, with temperatures averaging 21-39°F.
Whitehorse
Whitehorse, Yukon, is Canada's far north capital city, where wilderness meets city charm. If you are looking for different kinds of places to travel in Canada, this one should be on your list.
Nicknamed "The Wilderness City," it's a hub for exploring Yukon Territory's dramatic landscapes. Hike or bike trails weave through mountains, while the Yukon River itself flows right through town.
Winter transforms Whitehorse into a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts. Hit the slopes for skiing and snowboarding, or soak in the Takhini Hot Springs under the aurora borealis (northern lights). Whitehorse offers a taste of adventure alongside a surprising dose of urban comfort.
When to Go:
Summer (June to August): Ideal for festivals, sports events and outdoor adventures.
June: Kluane Chilkat International Bike Relay.
Fall and Spring Equinoxes: Peak times for viewing the northern lights.
Winter (February): Features various festivals and the Yukon Quest, a thousand-mile dogs-led race.
How to Get Around:
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Rental Car: Best option due to limited public transit.
Package Tours: Available for cruise ship visitors via Skagway, Alaska.
Millennium Trail: A scenic, car-free, three-mile riverside loop near downtown.
Cycling Tours: Offered by Boréale Explorers.
Mountain Biking: 186-mile network navigated with Boréale Mountain Biking.
Quebec City
Steeped in history and European charm, Quebec City is one of the famous Canada tourist spots that is a gem located in the eastern part of the country. Explore cobblestone streets lined with cafes and boutiques in Petit Champlain, a delightful lower town. Fortified Upper Town boasts the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac hotel, overlooking the mighty St. Lawrence River.
Quebec City is a French-speaking haven offering a taste of Europe without leaving North America. Immerse yourself in French Canadian culture by visiting museums or simply strolling through the historic streets.
If you are a foodie, you will love the local cuisine, with specialities like maple syrup treats and poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curds). This charming city guarantees a unique and memorable Canadian experience.
How to Go:
Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) is located 16 kilometres (10 miles) from downtown Quebec City. Several airlines offer direct flights from various destinations in North America and Europe.
VIA Rail Canada is the primary train service to Quebec City. Trains arrive at Gare du Palais, conveniently located in the city centre.
When to Go:
July to September: Enjoy music festivals, outdoor concerts and special exhibits across the city.
October: Features fall foliage tours and the annual jazz festival.
January and February: Quebec Winter Carnival, a 17-day event attracting nearly 650,000 visitors. Activities include ice canoe races across the frozen St. Lawrence and the International Snow Sculpture Competition.
Whistler
Whistler, Canada, is a picture-perfect mountain paradise that beckons year-round travellers. Nestled within the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, just a short journey north of Vancouver, Whistler offers a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventure and relaxation.
The centrepiece of Whistler is Whistler Blackcomb, one of the largest ski resorts in North America. In the winter, skiers and snowboarders of all levels can carve down thrilling slopes, while summer brings opportunities for hiking and biking through scenic trails.
But Whistler's charm extends beyond winter sports. Take a dip in the warm waters of the natural Banff Upper Hot Springs, a geological marvel. Explore the charming pedestrian village at the base of the mountains, where outdoor enthusiasts mingle amidst a delightful mix of shops and restaurants.
How to Go:
Fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR): This is the closest major airport to Whistler, located around a 2.5-hour drive away. Numerous airlines offer flights to Vancouver from various destinations worldwide.
Shuttle Bus: Several companies offer comfortable shuttle bus services directly from the airport or downtown Vancouver to Whistler. This is a convenient and affordable option.
Rental Car: If you prefer flexibility, renting a car from the Vancouver airport allows you to explore Whistler and the surrounding area at your own pace. Remember to check road conditions, especially in winter.
When to Go:
June to August: Ideal for outdoor activities like camping and exploring.
June and July: Glacier skiing on Blackcomb Mountain.
December to March: Best for skiing.
December to February: Peak skiing conditions.
March: Warmer temperatures with quality snow.
September to November: Great for leaf-peeping.
April and May: Moderate temperatures, perfect for hiking and biking.
Gros Morne National Park
Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Newfoundland's west coast, stuns with its dramatic landscapes. Hike the Tablelands, a barren plateau where the exposed earth's mantle tells the story of colliding continents.
Cruise the fjords, carved by glaciers millennia ago, and marvel at cascading waterfalls. Climb Gros Morne Mountain for panoramic vistas or explore hidden forests teeming with wildlife.
Kayak on tranquil ponds or spot whales and puffins along the coast. History buffs will appreciate the park's fishing villages, while everyone can appreciate the raw beauty of Gros Morne National Park.
How to Go:
By Air: Deer Lake Airport: Closest to the park (20 miles away), with direct flights from Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax.
By Ferry:
- From North Sydney, Nova Scotia:
- Port aux Basques: 6-hour ferry ride, 186 miles from the park.
- Argentia: 14-hour ferry ride (mid-June to September), 354 miles from the park.
Note: Both ferries may face weather and mechanical delays; reservations are essential.
When to Go:
Year-Round: Suitable for visitors prepared for changing weather conditions.
Summer: Expect rain and fog, creating a unique atmosphere.
Winter: Ideal for skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
Seasonal Closures: Check with park officials, as highland trails may be closed in spring and during snowy periods for safety and conservation.
Vancouver
Vancouver, a bustling city nestled between mountains and ocean in western Canada, is a blend of urban energy and natural beauty. Hike or bike through Stanley Park, a green oasis or explore the waterfront teeming with seaplanes.
Foodies will devour multicultural cuisine, while art enthusiasts will find treasures at the Vancouver Art Gallery. Vancouver's mix of cityscapes and stunning scenery makes it a vibrant and unforgettable destination.
How to Get Around:
Walking: Most attractions are within walking distance.
Gastown and Chinatown: Located just blocks from each other.
Granville Island: Board the Aquabus at the Olympic Village (buses 16 or 50) or take a taxi.
When to Go:
You can be a part of many outdoor concerts, markets and festivals throughout the city in summer.
June to September is about the Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival in Vanier Park.
Mid-June to Early July: Vancouver International Jazz Festival with 300 concerts, including a free Downtown Jazz Weekend.
First Day of Summer: Make Music Vancouver in Gastown with 150 bands performing live music.
Chinatown: Summer open-air night market with film screenings, ping-pong tournaments, mahjong, and various stalls.
Granville Island: Farmers Market every Thursday from early June to October, offering local produce and baked treats.
Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island, Canada's smallest province, is a charming island paradise. Red-sand beaches bake under the sun, while lighthouses stand sentinel along the coast. Fresh seafood reigns supreme and the capital, Charlottetown, offers Victorian architecture and a vibrant arts scene.
Rent a bike to explore gentle countryside lanes or delve into the island's literary heritage, which inspired Lucy Maud Montgomery's "Anne of Green Gables." PEI's beauty and laid-back pace offer a relaxing escape.
When to Go:
July to October: If you like to swim, you can enjoy warm water during this time for swimming.
September: You can enjoy a few festivals during this time:
Fall Flavours festival, led by Food Network chefs.
PEI International Shellfish Festival (oysterpalooza).
How to Get Around:
Outside Charlottetown: A car is necessary if you wish to go out of Charlottetown.
Coastal Routes: You will have designated routes that will help navigate the province.
Car Rentals: You can take a car on rent which is readily available in Charlottetown, Summerside, and at Charlottetown airport.
Montreal
Montreal, Canada's second-largest city, oozes European charm. French is the primary language and cobbled streets wind through historic Vieux-Montréal, where the Gothic Notre-Dame Basilica reigns supreme.
For a taste of the modern city, explore the lively Quartier des Spectacles with its museums and festivals. Foodies will love sampling poutine, a local favourite and browsing bustling outdoor markets. Montreal's blend of history, culture and delicious eats makes it a captivating city.
When to Go:
Summer (June to September): Festivals and celebrations take over the city, offering a vibrant atmosphere. Terraces are packed and outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and riverfront walks are abundant.
July and August: These months can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging between 80°F and 90°F.
Fall (October): The city is adorned with beautiful fall colours, making it a picturesque time to visit. Attracts European travellers and those who enjoy the crisp, cool weather. This time is ideal for exploring parks and enjoying autumn festivals.
Do I Need Travel Insurance to Go to Canada?
While
travel insurance for Canada is not mandatory for visiting Canada, it is highly recommended. Unexpected situations such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations or lost baggage can arise, and having insurance can provide peace of mind and financial protection.
Reliance General Insurance offers a range of
international travel insurance plans to suit your needs: Standard Plan, Silver Plan, Gold Plan and Platinum Plan. Choosing the right plan can ensure you have the support you need, no matter what happens during your trip.
For more information on the plans and to select the best plan for your travels, you can get in touch with our insurance experts. With us, you can secure your journey and enjoy your time in Canada without worry.
