Canada Bucket List: 37 Top Places to Visit (By Locals)

We’ve divided our bucket list by region to help you decide what to see in Canada, based on where you’re visiting.

Best places to visit in British Columbia

1) Victoria

Let’s kick off our British Columbia bucket list with one of the most beautiful Canadian cities – Victoria, the province’s capital. (We’re lucky to call it home!)

And you’re forgiven if you think you’ve stepped into Olde England in the city’s heart. With its century-old Parliament Buildings, horse-and-carriage rides and tea parlors serving proper pinkies-up afternoon tea, Victoria exudes a decidedly British vibe.

But wander into the shops on Government Street selling wild smoked salmon gifts and wool sweaters (hand-knit by Cowichan First Nation artisans), and there’s no doubt – you’re in Canada!

If you visit in summer, beat the heat by cooling off at some of Victoria’s pretty beaches, like the sandy shores of Willows Beach (just a 10- to 15-minute drive from downtown).

It’s easy to get to Victoria by ferry or plane from Vancouver or Seattle. You’ll find lovely hotels and B&Bs and a fantastic dining scene here too.

What’s wow

Scenic walks abound! A crowd-pleaser is the path along Victoria’s Inner Harbor, one of the world’s most beautiful waterfronts.

Also hop on a Victoria Harbour Ferry for a ride in a cute little water taxi. Cross the harbor to a brewpub, or take a Gorge Waterway tour to soak in the sights and learn about Victoria’s history.

2) Salt Spring Island

One of our favorite places for a laid-back seaside getaway is Salt Spring Island, a short ferry ride from Victoria (or Vancouver).

The island has several charming B&B’s and inns, and the main town of Ganges has some appealing restaurants. (Fresh oysters, anyone?)

Salt Spring is a sanctuary for artists, poets and writers, and you can pop into artists’ studios and galleries.

And if you hike up Mount Erskine, you’ll see sweet “fairy doors” carved by locals. If you believe in magic, it’s said that fairies live in wee houses behind them.

Also don’t miss the Salt Spring Saturday Market in the summer months – pick up some island-made goat cheese and other goodies.

What’s wow

You can rent e-bikes to pedal a spectacularly scenic 17-mile (28-km) loop around part of the island.

3) Tofino

Who would have thought Canada has a “surfing capital”? Well, that’s Tofino on Vancouver Island’s west coast.

Locals and visitors alike go surf-crazy in this seaside boho-chic town.

Hiking rainforest trails to mystical beaches in nearby Pacific Rim National Park is also popular.

Then there’s Long Beach, an eerily beautiful 10-mile (16-km) stretch of sandy beach, where the mist rolls in most mornings, shrouding everything in silver-grey gauze.

What’s wow

Once just a summer hotspot, Tofino now also draws visitors from around the world for winter storm watching. The waves crashing dramatically against the shore are wicked to watch! Some oceanfront lodges even pipe in the sounds of the storms.

When the weather rages, there’s no cozier place to be than Tofino. But with its stunning scenery, Tofino is one of our happy places in any season.

4) Telegraph Cove

If you drive north up Vancouver Island almost to the top, you reach teeny-tiny Telegraph Cove.

Grizzly bear viewing? Killer whale watching? Telegraph Cove is a popular place to visit in British Columbia for adventure hounds.

A former fishing and cannery village, Telegraph Cove is one of the last remaining boardwalk settlements left on Vancouver Island.

Its colorful wooden buildings have been turned into a quaint eco-tourism resort with cabins, a restaurant, various lodge accommodations and eco-tour offices. 

What’s wow

Telegraph Cove is the gateway to Johnstone Strait – home to a large resident pod of killer whales (orcas) and a world-famous site for sea kayaking with these majestic mammals.

Day tours are also offered from Telegraph Cove to view wild grizzly bears at Knight Inlet, Canada’s premier grizzly bear viewing destination.

Note: Sadly, a fire in December, 2024 destroyed several buildings, and rebuilding is going on. Check with the resort about the current state of operations.

5) Okanagan Valley

What’s wow

With some 200 wineries, the wine tasting is next-level. Take a road trip along the length of the valley to explore the different wineries.

Vineyard restaurants specialize in farm-to-table dining, and several vineyards have adorable B&B lodgings too. (There are some particularly good winery restaurants in Naramata.)

We’ve spent many holidays in the Okanagan, mixing wine tasting with bicycling, hiking and swimming – intoxicating, to say the least!

And if you can’t visit in person, you can always order their wines online or from a Canadian wine club.

Like Victoria (see #1), Vancouver is also one of the most popular places to visit in Canada. A big reason? Stanley Park.

Right in the city center, Stanley Park is one of the world’s largest urban parks (bigger than Central Park in New York City).

It comprises 1,000 acres of natural coniferous forest – laced with hiking trails, flower gardens and a small lake (Lost Lagoon) with fountains and ducks.

Oh, and let’s not forget its beaches! Second Beach and Third Beach are great for swimming and lazing about in the sun in summer.

Vancouver is home to several lovely gardens and parks (the VanDusen Botanical Garden is another top one). But if you only have time for one, make it Stanley Park.

What’s wow

You get fabulous views when you bicycle around Stanley Park on its oceanfront Seawall.

Continue beyond Stanley Park and you can pedal for another 13 miles (22 km) on an extension of this bicycle-friendly waterfront path, all the way to Kits Beach.

Do you love schussing down the slopes?

Then Whistler – site of the 2010 Winter Olympics and one of North America’s top ski resorts – should be on your Canadian winter bucket list.

Together, the two mountains of Whistler and Blackcomb are renowned for their awesome skiing and snowboarding. They offer 200+ marked runs, 16 alpine bowls, three glaciers and 8,171 acres of snowy terrain.

Pssst! Driving up from Vancouver? Stop at Brandywine Falls for a quick 10-minute walk to see the thundering 220-foot (70-meter) cascade.

What’s wow

Whistler’s Peak 2 Peak gondola is the world’s highest lift – soaring 1,427 feet (436 meters) above the valley floor. It holds the record for the world’s longest unsupported lift span.

For a thrill, ride in a gondola car with a glass floor (if you dare!), then glide in the air for almost 2 miles (3 km).

8) Galiano Island

For a lazy summer vacation, Galiano is heaven for hikers, kayakers and nature lovers.

You can bicycle the island’s entire length and back in a day, and hike up Bluffs Park to watch orcas (killer whales) feed in Active Pass.

Dozens of beaches are also inviting places to swim and beachcomb.

What’s wow

Go kayaking at night on a bioluminescence paddling tour, where fish swimming through the water leave behind sparkling streaks of light.

9) Wells Gray Provincial Park

If you seek unspoiled wilderness, get thee to Wells Gray Provincial Park.

It’s so raw and wild that the 1.3-million-acre park almost has a Jurassic Park feel (but the cedar, Douglas Fir and hemlock trees are distinctly Canadian).

The park’s unique volcanic plateaus and deep canyons are the result of ancient volcanic eruptions followed by glacial cooling. Naturally, the rugged landscape includes superb hiking trails.

It’s common to spot mule deer, and in September, jumping Chinook salmon. And you may see black bears (so be bear-safe).

What’s wow

Known as Canada’s waterfall park, Wells Gray is home to 41 named waterfalls.

Hurtling down 463 feet (141 meters), Helmcken Falls is the most famous. And at Moul Falls, you can walk through to the cave wall behind the falls and feel the power of nature (and the refreshing spray!) from a totally different perspective.

Added bonus: Many of the waterfalls, including Helmcken, can be reached via a short walk or hike.

10) Butchart Gardens

Do you go gaga over gardens? Then put Butchart Gardens on your list of attractions you must see in Canada!

Probably the most beautiful garden in Victoria, Butchart welcomes over one million visitors a year. A full-time staff of 50 gardeners makes sure everything looks immaculate.

Smell the roses, delight in the dancing fountain, get lost in the tall hedge maze and find your Zen in the tranquil Japanese maple garden.

What’s wow

In July and August, a blockbuster fireworks show (choreographed to music) is held on Saturday nights.

Go early to get in, because the show – choreographed by Christopher Ross (great-grandson of the garden’s founder, Jennie Butchart) – is very popular.

11) Joffre Lakes

Calling all hikers! Joffre Lakes is an impossibly scenic hike!

An easy day trip from Whistler (see #7), Joffre Lakes is a trio of take-your-breath-away turquoise lakes, nestled in the mountains.

The total hike is a little more than 6 miles (10 km) roundtrip, with an easy-to-moderate elevation gain of 1,300 feet (400 meters). But you won’t be thinking about how long it takes to get there, because you’ll be too focused on enjoying the forest scenery.

What’s wow

Each of the three lakes is more beautiful than the one before! So there’s a real incentive to keep on hiking to the third lake (Upper Lake).

Parksville is a charming resort destination on the east coast of Vancouver Island.

Its long sandy beaches – with warm shallow swimming – are the star attraction. But you can also see goats grazing on a grass roof building in nearby Coombs, golf, explore the crystalline Horne Lake Caves and soak in a grotto spa.

Families, in particular, love summer vacations in Parksville and nearby Qualicum Beach.

What’s wow

At low tide, the ocean water rolls back almost a mile (1.6 km) at Rathtrevor Beach, exposing a vast sun-baked expanse of sand.

You can go beachcombing and see zillions of tiny crabs, giant snails, sand dollars and other marine critters in the tidal pools. Kids love this.

And when the tide rolls in, the swimming is some of the warmest in Canada.

13) Nimmo Bay

In the heart of Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest, Nimmo Bay is a wonderfully remote bay about 200 miles (320 km) northwest of Vancouver.

International visitors usually take a float plane to get there. (We took a high-speed boat ride from Vancouver Island.)

Ocean kayaking? Bear viewing? Fly fishing? Hiking? Whale watching? Heli-bicycling? This is your wilderness paradise.

What’s wow

The deluxe Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort has a unique wood-fired floating sauna. You have to paddle a SUP board or kayak to reach it.

And the food at the resort is gourmet, with pre-dinner cocktails served outside around a firepit on a floating fire dock.

For a pampered wilderness escape, Nimmo Bay Resort is one of the top places to go in Canada in the summer – perfect for a splurge!

14) Capilano Suspension Bridge

Along with Stanley Park (#6), Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is one of the coolest outdoor parks in Vancouver!

The first suspension bridge in the park was built of ropes and cedar planks in 1889.

Rebuilt in 1956, it’s suspended 230 feet (70 meters) above Capilano River. Several other bridges, treehouses and overlooks have been added to the collection since then.

You can easily spend a whole day here – crossing the swinging bridges, wandering among the Douglas fir and red cedar trees, learning about forest sustainability and bridge engineering, taking nature photos and soaking in the gorgeous landscape.

What’s wow

The heart-stopping Cliffwalk is a series of narrow cantilevered walkways, jutting out from the canyon wall, 300 feet (91 meters) high above the river and forest floor.

The experience of walking along it is terrifying and exhilarating – especially when looking down through the glass floor viewpoint.

15) Haida Gwaii

If you can visit Haida Gwaii when sightseeing in Canada, you won’t regret it.

This remote Pacific archipelago off the northern BC coast, is the ancestral home of the Haida people and the stunning Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve.

“Haida Gwaii” means “Islands of Beauty,” and they’re well-named. Ringed with rocky shorelines, the mystical southern islands are often shrouded in mist. In the surrounding waters, giant kelp floats on the surface and sea lions poke their heads above the water. 

16) Jasper National Park

As the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies – spanning 4,247 sq. miles (11,000 sq. km) – Jasper is simply one of the best Canadian places to visit.

Less busy than more-famous Banff National Park (#20), Jasper is a wonderland of rugged mountain peaks, rushing rivers, glittering lakes, jaw-dropping canyons and tons of local wildlife, from bighorn sheep to elk.

What’s wow

Elk. Elk. And more elk! Wherever you go, you’ll see wild elk.

About 1,300 elk live in Jasper National Park. The large antlers on the bulls are quite the sight!

17) Elk Island National Park

Elk Island National Park was established as a sanctuary for bison (which were on the brink of extinction). The forested preserve protects elk, deer and moose too, and it’s home to some 200 species of birds.

Drive through the park to see bison roaming freely. They’re the largest land animal in North America.

18) Moraine Lake

Canada’s most photographed lake, Moraine Lake, even graced the back of Canada’s $20 bills (1969 to 1979).

Nestled in Banff National Park (see #20), this alpine lake is a gorgeous turquoise hue. Oh wait, the lake is blue. No, it’s more emerald. The color is actually hard to pin down, because it changes over the summer and at different times in the day.

Whatever, framed by the towering Ten Peaks, it’s pure postcard perfection.

Walking trails to viewpoints include the Lakeshore Trail and the famous Rockpile Viewpoint trail. For longer hikes, try the Larch Valley Trail (where larch trees turn a dazzling gold color in autumn) and the Consolation Lakes Trail.

But no worries if you don’t want to hike. You can still take in spectacular lake views from the nearby café, or even rent a kayak and get out on the water.

Due to its popularity, parking is almost impossible, so you should reserve a Parks Canada shuttle here to visit Moraine Lake.

What’s wow

The lake’s 50 shades of blue are so bewitching that many call it the most beautiful spot in the Canadian Rockies. That’s saying a lot!

Dinosaur fans shouldn’t miss Drumheller, a town in the heart of the Alberta Badlands (about a 90-minute drive from Calgary).

This region has yielded some of the world’s most extraordinary paleontological discoveries – making it one of the most unique places to visit in Canada.

You can see most of them in the renowned Royal Tyrell Museum.

Dedicate at least a day to the museum – the exhibits are that engrossing. You’ll find sections recreating life in prehistoric times, fascinating fossil galleries and the Dinosaur Hall, which showcases the most impressive skeletons. 

After the museum, explore the Badlands. The easiest way is to drive the 30-mile (48-km) Dinosaur Trail winding past hoodoos, canyons and other surreal geological features. 

What’s wow

The formidable T-Rex skeleton in the museum’s Dinosaur Hall is awe-inspiring. So is “Black Beauty” – a huge rare blackened skull of a Tyrannosaurusrex.

20) Banff National Park

If you crave the outdoors, Banff is likely high on your list.

Located in the Rocky Mountains, Banff National Park is an OMG amazing place, especially for hikers. Its gob-smacking scenery includes glaciers, alpine forests, turquoise glacial lakes (hello Lake Louise!) and towering peaks.

Covering 2,564 square miles (6,641 sq. km), the park offers over 1,000 miles (1,600 km) of trails that can be enjoyed by all, from novices to advanced hikers.

Visiting – and hiking in – Banff National Park is simply one of the best things to do in Canada!

The prime hiking months are June to August.

What’s wow

21) Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump

If you’re fascinated by First Nations’ history and culture, one of the most interesting places in Canada to visit is Head-Smashed-In-Buffalo Jump. (And the name is as intriguing as the story behind it!)

A UNESCO Site, it’s one of the best-preserved buffalo jumps in the world. 

For 5,500 years, the Blackfoot people orchestrated high-stakes buffalo hunts here. Timing was everything – if the wind shifted, the buffalo would sense danger and flee. When conditions were perfect, however, the hunters drove the herd toward the cliff, where the stampeding mass forced those in front over the edge.

Shocking today? Maybe. But for the Blackfoot, buffalo meat was survival. A successful hunt meant enduring Alberta’s brutal winters. A failed one? Starvation.

What’s wow

Standing at the very spot where this life-or-death event unfolded for millennia is humbling – a powerful reminder of resilience and survival.

22) Emerald Lake

One of the prettiest lakes in Canada is Emerald Lake.

It’s named for its radiant green color, created by light reflecting off white marl deposits (a mixture of clay and calcium carbonate). 

Tucked inside Yoho National Park in the Canadian Rockies, Emerald Lake is a year-round destination. Summer invites canoeing and strolling around, while winter brings cozy stays at the lovely Emerald Lake Lodge. 

It’s easy to visit Yoho National Park on a day trip from Banff or Lake Louise (about a 40- to 60-minute drive away).

What’s wow

With its rich color, Emerald Lake is a poster child for all the Insta-worthy sights the Rockies are known for!

23) Calgary Stampede

Yee-haw! Put on a cowboy hat and boots and celebrate the Old West at the rowdy Calgary Stampede.

Known as the “greatest outdoor show on earth,” the event features one of the largest rodeo tournaments in the world. You’ll see cowboys and cowgirls barrel racing, bull riding and trying their best to stay on bucking broncos. 

There’s more to do at the Stampede besides watching the rodeo though.

Enjoy the carnival rides on the fairgrounds, eat delicious hot dogs from food trucks, see if you have what it takes on the mechanical bull, listen to live country music and party into the night.  

What’s wow

The Stampede has made Calgary one of the most famous places in Canada. And for good reason!

Being part of an authentic western tradition over 100 years old – and seeing cowboys and cowgirls from all over the world compete – is something you don’t want to miss.

24) Smutwood Peak

The epic Smutwood Peak trail in the Kananaskis area is one of the best day hikes in the Canadian Rockies. But it’s no walk in the park.

At over 11 miles (18 km), with a 3,100-ft (950-m elevation gain), this strenuous trek isn’t for the faint of heart. Narrow ridges and dizzying heights make it a challenge. But the reward? Unreal top-of-the-world views.

The route winds through scenic forest, with mountains rising up around you, before opening up to Birdwood Lakes. The scenery on the final hour of the climb is truly stunning!

What’s wow

Apart from the unbeatable view, you’ll probably only see a handful of other hikers, even on a weekend.

25) Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden

Lethbridge, the third largest city in Alberta, is home to Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, one of Canada’s most beautiful Japanese gardens.

Built in 1967 to honor Japanese contributions to the region, its name means “Japan-Canada Friendship.” Hugging Henderson Lake, the garden blends stone lanterns, wooden bridges and cherry blossoms with a Canadian landscape.

Stroll its serene paths, meditate by trickling streams and join cultural activities like yoga or a traditional Ochakai (Tea) Ceremony.

What’s wow

Taking part in the time-honored tea ceremony is a lovely way to experience the tranquility of this Japanese garden.

26) Chester Lake

If ever there was a Canadian hike to return to in different seasons, it’s the trail to Chester Lake in Kananaskis Country.

It starts with a steady climb the first 2.2 miles (3.5 km). From there, the forest opens up to stunning mountain views.

In summer, wildflowers blanket the alpine meadows, while fall brings golden larch trees. Winter transforms the landscape into a snowshoer’s paradise, with snow-laden evergreens and crisp mountain air.

The final reward is, of course, Chester Lake, flanked by mountain scenery on all sides

What’s wow

Chester Lake and the surrounding mountains deliver more than enough “wow.” But follow the left-side trail beyond the lake to the Elephant Rocks, impressive boulders that are worth the side trip.

Best places to visit in Saskatchewan and Manitoba

Drive east from Alberta on the Trans-Canada Highway, and those flat prairies extend as far as the eye can see in Saskatchewan.

It’s very much a land of wide-open spaces, where cities are small and few. Saskatoon is the biggest, but Regina is its capital.

Continue east, and you come to Manitoba – a province where southern prairies give way to untamed northern wilderness. In its remote north, you’ll find Churchill (#28 below), famously known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World.”

27) Grasslands National Park

With so many beautiful places in Canada, it’s easy to overlook Grasslands National Park in Saskatchewan. But if you like rolling prairies, clear blue skies, bison and solitude, this starkly scenic park is for you.

Ideally visited on a road trip through Saskatchewan, the park has two sections: the West Block (accessed via Val Marie) and the East Block (via Killdeer).  

A highlight of the West Block is visiting the Bison Facility to learn about the 300+ wild bison that roam freely within the park.  

In the East Block, drive the 7-mile (11-km) Badlands Parkway, stopping at scenic viewpoints to take in Mars-like badlands and endless prairies. 

What’s wow

The park is Canada’s darkest Dark Sky Preserve! With very little light pollution at night, stargazing here is spectacular – the Milky Way and star constellations shine in full glory.

28) Churchill

Spend enough time in Churchill, Manitoba, and you might spot a polar bear lurking outside your window – or even bump into one on the street after dark!

Located 1,000 miles (1,600 km) north of Winnipeg, Churchill is a remote town on the shores of Hudson Bay.

Needless to say, viewing wild polar bears in their natural habitat in Churchill is a unique experience! Most sightings happen on the tundra near the town and around Hudson Bay from the safety of large tundra buggies or wildlife lodges.

What’s wow

You get to see polar bears really close – like six feet away! Used to the vehicles and lodges, they often walk right up, making for jaw-dropping photos.

29) CN Tower

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Canada, the CN Tower – nicknamed “The Needle” – dominates the skyline in Toronto, Ontario.

At 1,815 feet (553 meters), the slender tree-shaped structure is Canada’s highest. In fact, it held the record for the world’s tallest free-standing structure for 32 years, from the time it was built in 1976 until it was eclipsed by the Burj Khalifa in the UAE.

The main attraction is the view. The LookOut and SkyPod (1,465 feet/446 meters) both offer astounding 360-degree views of Toronto and Lake Ontario. 

For an adrenalin rush, try the EdgeWalk. While strapped into a harness 116 stories high above the ground, you walk around an outdoor platform – and can even lean back over the city, looking up at the sky. It’s the highest outdoor thrill walk in the world.

Prefer something less heart-pounding? Dine in style at the revolving restaurant, with ever-changing views.

What’s wow

From the SkyPod, you can see up to 100 miles (160 km) on a clear day – all the way to Niagara Falls (see #30 next).

30) Niagara Falls

Ask anyone about must-see places in Canada – and Niagara Falls is always one of the answers.

One of North America’s top tourist attractions, Niagara Falls draws 13 million visitors a year. It was even the “Honeymoon Capital of the World” in the late 19th and early 20th centuries!

Every second, over 3,000 tons of water thunder down the falls, best viewed from the Canadian side, in the town of – you guessed it – Niagara Falls.

You can glimpse them from your car just past the visitor center.

But for the full experience, join a tour that pairs a boat cruise with an underground adventure behind the curtain of the falls. On this top-rated tour, an elevator whisks you down 125 feet (38 meters) into a tunnel system leading to observation decks behind the thundering cascade. You won’t believe the roar as one-fifth of the world’s fresh water crashes down in front of you!

What’s wow

If you think seeing the falls during the day is impressive, try seeing them illuminated in a rainbow of colors at night.

The fireworks display on weekend nights in summer is also sensational.

31) Bruce Peninsula National Park

Part of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, Bruce Peninsula National Park boasts tall limestone cliffs, with stupendous views of the clear waters of Georgian Bay and Lake Huron.

For nature lovers, it’s a dream destination, with hiking trails passing caves, rock formations and lookout points. You can also kayak, canoe, scuba dive and much more!

The park is the most popular place to camp within Ontario, with campsites selling out months in advance – reserve early if interested.

What’s wow

The park is home to the famous Grotto, a natural limestone cave with crystal-clear water for swimming.

32) Old Quebec City

Craving European flair without leaving Canada? Look no further than Old Quebec City!

One of North America’s oldest cities, it’s the only walled city north of Mexico. It’s also the birthplace of French Canada and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, brimming with history.

Cobblestone streets, sidewalk cafés and hidden alleys, where artists paint on a whim, make it irresistibly charming.

We loved strolling along the quaint streets of Quartier Petit Champlain and Vieux-Port. And, of course, picking up maple syrup for lucky friends!

What’s wow

In the heart of Old Quebec City, the world-famous Le Chateau Frontenac is said to be the world’s most photographed hotel.

Its fairy-tale turrets and towers overlooking the St. Lawrence River are pure magic. You can even step inside for a peek or take a guided tour.

No doubt – Quebec City is one of the best Canadian cities to visit for history and culture buffs.

33) Niagara-on-the-Lake

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming Victorian town, only 20 minutes from Niagara Falls (#30), filled with tree-lined streets and lush boulevard gardens.

Its attractions include boutique shopping, art galleries, a world-class theater, scenic views, 5-star restaurants and gorgeous AirBnbs. Perfect for both girls’ getaways and romantic escapes, a visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake can be enjoyed year-round.

What’s wow

Set in the heart of Ontario’s wine country, Niagara-on-the-Lake is surrounded by over 25 wineries, luring visitors from all over with its exceptional food and wine.

34) Ottawa

Well, we just have to include Ottawa in our “best of Canada” travel guide, right? After all, it’s Canada’s capital city and full of historic sites!

Visit Parliament Hill. Admire head-scratching art at the National Gallery of Canada. And take in one of the city’s excellent museums, like the Canadian Museum of Nature or the Canadian War Museum.

What’s wow

In winter, you can skate along the Rideau Canal (connected to the Ottawa River by eight locks), all the way from downtown Ottawa to Dows Lake – making this the world’s largest naturally-frozen skating rink.

35) Fogo Island

Dreamers? Luxury lovers? Hideaway seekers? Fogo Island is for you!

One of the best places to visit in Newfoundland, this remote island off the coast of Atlantic Canada blends rugged beauty with warm hospitality.

Brightly colored houses and fishing stages (platforms built at the water’s edge for cleaning and salting cod) dot the windswept landscape. In spring, icebergs drift by, and in summer, whales feed along the coastline.

What’s wow

The 29-suite Fogo Island Inn, built on stilts at the Atlantic’s edge, wows with dramatic Nordic architecture and even more dramatic views.

36) Prince Edward Island

For one of the best vacation spots in Canada, head to Prince Edward Island – a place straight out of a storybook!

The best way to enjoy PEI? Relax.

When you’re ready for adventure, cycle the mostly flat 270-mile (435-km) Confederation Trail, dig for clams, stroll the floating boardwalk over marshland in Greenwich and feast on seafood in Charlottetown and Summerside.

Spend at least 3 days on the island to fully experience its delights.

What’s wow

PEI has 63 lighthouses, each with a tale.

The Cape Bear Lighthouse received the first distress call from the sinking Titanic, while the West Point Lighthouse offers a unique stay in 4-star inn.

37) Nunavut

If you love venturing off the beaten path, Nunavut is calling.

This Arctic wonderland in the Great White North is one of the least visited regions in Canada, yet it offers some of the most extraordinary experiences.

Spot polar bears, narwhals, beluga whales and caribou. Snowmobile across the tundra, sea kayak past towering icebergs and marvel at the northern lights dancing overhead.

Getting to Nunavut is actually pretty simple – you can fly directly into the capital of Iqaluit from Ottawa or Montreal. Plan to stay at least five days, though you may never want to leave.

What’s wow

The raw arctic landscape and unique culture of the Inuit people will make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world!

Canada travel tips and FAQs

The exception is the west coast of British Columbia (B.C.), which usually only experiences a few days of snow each winter. But B.C.’s west coast is cold and rainy much of the time in winter.

If you’re visiting the mountains and national parks in Alberta (Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper), June to August are great times to go for the best hiking, golfing, canoeing and other outdoor adventures.

Many different train trips are also available for exploring Canada.

For example, the Rocky Mountaineer is a private train company offering luxury train journeys in Western Canada. A popular train ride is from Vancouver to Jasper through the Canadian Rockies.

Via Rail offers trans-Canada train trips between Vancouver and Toronto on The Canadian.

---

---

---