Canada
Most visited cities in Canada
Toronto, ON
Toronto is a diverse, energetic and liveable city, home to many tourist attractions, and seemingly endless dining, shopping and entertainment possibilities. It's the most populous city in Canada, the centre of the country's financial sector, and the provincial capital of Ontario.
Vancouver, BC
Vancouver is a vibrant city located on the west coast of Canada, in the province of British Columbia. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse cultural scene, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Vancouver is often ranked as one of the most livable cities in the world due to its high quality of life and abundance of amenities.
A Beach Destination
One of the many highlights of Vancouver is its picturesque beaches. The city is situated on a peninsula surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, and it offers several beautiful sandy stretches along its coastline. Some of its notable beaches are: English Bay beach In the heart of downtown, the beach is known for its soft sand and offers breathtaking views of the ocean, the North Shore mountains, and the city skyline.Kitsilano Beach: Often referred to as "Kits Beach," this sandy oasis is situated in the Kitsilano neighborhood.
Spanish Banks Beach: Located west of Kitsilano Beach, Spanish Banks is a vast stretch of sand that provides a more peaceful and secluded atmosphere.
A Ski & Snowboard Haven
Vancouver is surrounded by stunning mountains, making it a haven for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. It is one of the few cities in the world offering beach and ski opportunities. The region offers a variety of world-class ski resorts and winter sports destinations within a short distance from the city. Whistler Blackbomb: About a 2 hour drive north, Whistler is one of the best ski resorts in North America. With over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, Whistler Blackcomb offers a vast array of slopes suitable for all skill levels.Cypress Mountain: Just a half hour from downtown, Cypress is a popular winter sports destination.
Grouse Mountain: Even closer at 15 minutes from downtown, Grouse Mountain offers excellent winter sports opportunities and spectacular views of the skyline.
Montreal, QC
Montreal (French: Montréal ) is the largest city in the Canadian province of Quebec. While Quebec City is the capital, Montreal is the cultural and economic centre, and the main entry point to the province. With 1.7 million citizens in the city and 4 million in the urban area, Montreal is Canada's second largest city, and the largest francophone city in the Americas. Still, around 12% of the population speak English as a mother language, and most Francophones are conversant in English to varying degrees of fluency. Old Montreal has a heritage of colonial times. Though a large city, Montreal gives opportunities for outdoor life, and for watching the legendary Montréal Canadiens ice hockey team.
Niagara Falls, ON
Niagara Falls, Ontario, is the self-proclaimed "Honeymoon Capital of the World". For over a century the grandeur of the waterfalls of the Niagara River have attracted tourists to this destination.
Quebec City, QC
Quebec City, located in the Canadian province of Quebec, is a charming and historic destination that blends European flair with North American charm. As one of the oldest cities in North America, Quebec City is steeped in history, with its fortified walls, cobblestone streets, and well-preserved architecture. From its picturesque Old Town to its vibrant cultural scene, Quebec City offers a unique and captivating experience for visitors. Let's explore some of the highlights of Quebec City and discover its distinct attractions.
Old Quebec
Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the heart and soul of Quebec City. With its narrow streets, 17th-century buildings, and fortified walls, walking through Old Quebec feels like stepping back in time. Explore Place Royale, the birthplace of French civilization in North America, and marvel at the magnificent Château Frontenac, an iconic hotel perched atop Cap Diamant. Immerse yourself in the charming ambiance, visit historic sites, and indulge in French-inspired cuisine at local bistros and cafes.La Citadelle de Québec
La Citadelle de Québec is a star-shaped fortress that overlooks the St. Lawrence River. It is one of the largest military fortifications in North America and still an active military installation. Take a guided tour to learn about the fortress's history, visit the museum, and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony. From the ramparts, enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape, including the picturesque Plains of Abraham.Montmorency Falls
Just outside Quebec City, Montmorency Falls offers a breathtaking natural wonder. Taller than Niagara Falls, the Montmorency Falls cascade down a sheer cliff and are a sight to behold year-round. During winter, the falls often freeze, creating a stunning icy spectacle. Take a stroll along the suspension bridge to admire the frozen falls or take a thrilling zipline ride for a unique perspective. In summer, enjoy the lush greenery and take the scenic cable car to the top for magnificent views.Winter Carnival
Quebec City is famous for its annual Winter Carnival, one of the world's largest winter celebrations. Held in late January to early February, the carnival features parades, ice sculptures, snow slides, and a host of winter activities. Experience the joie de vivre as locals and visitors come together to embrace the season, participate in snowshoeing or ice canoe races, and enjoy traditional Quebecois cuisine. The carnival's highlight is the night parade, where illuminated floats and performers create a magical atmosphere.Petit-Champlain District
The Petit-Champlain District is a charming neighborhood in Old Quebec, known for its narrow streets, boutiques, and cozy cafes. This historic district offers a unique shopping experience, with local artisans showcasing their crafts and specialty shops offering unique finds. Explore the cobblestone streets, admire the beautifully preserved buildings, and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Rue du Petit-Champlain.
Calgary, AB
Calgary is Alberta's largest city and Canada's fourth-largest, and is near where the prairies end and the foothills begin. That makes it the eastern gateway to the Rocky Mountains and an important centre of trade and tourism for the western prairies. It is your best point of access for Banff and Jasper, and a worthwhile destination in its own right. Calgary is the heart of the largest metropolitan area between Toronto and Vancouver, with over 1.24 million people as of 2016 (1.4 million in the metropolitan area), making it Canada's fourth largest metropolitan area.
Victoria, BC
Victoria, British Columbia is a charming city located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island in Canada. As the capital of British Columbia, Victoria is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The city's picturesque Inner Harbour is a focal point, surrounded by historic buildings like the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel and the British Columbia Parliament Buildings. Victoria offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and urban experiences. Visitors can explore lush gardens like the Butchart Gardens, stroll along the scenic waterfront, or take a whale-watching tour to spot orcas and other marine life. The city's thriving arts community is evident in its galleries, theaters, and live music venues. With a mild climate and a welcoming atmosphere, Victoria is a delightful destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Canada's Pacific Coast beauty and enjoy a mix of history, nature, and cultural delights.
Ottawa, ON
Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is a charming city blending history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore iconic landmarks like Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover national museums, including the Canadian Museum of History and the National Gallery. Enjoy vibrant festivals like Winterlude and the Tulip Festival. With its picturesque parks, bike-friendly paths, and the scenic Gatineau Hills nearby, Ottawa offers outdoor adventures and a high quality of life. A welcoming city with a rich heritage, Ottawa captures the essence of Canada.
Banff, AB
Banff is a stunning resort town located in the Canadian Rockies, within Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. Surrounded by majestic mountains, glacial lakes, and dense forests, Banff is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The town itself offers a charming blend of alpine architecture, cozy lodges, and a variety of shops and restaurants, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Banff National Park is a haven for outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, and wildlife viewing. Iconic attractions such as Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Columbia Icefield draw visitors from around the world to witness the breathtaking natural beauty. With its year-round appeal and numerous opportunities for adventure and relaxation, Banff is a dream destination for those seeking an unforgettable escape into the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
Whistler, BC
Whistler, a captivating travel destination in British Columbia, Canada, is renowned as a world-class resort town that offers year-round outdoor adventures and breathtaking natural beauty. Whistler is famous for its exceptional skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the winter, with Whistler Blackcomb providing expansive slopes and stunning alpine vistas. In the warmer months, the area transforms into a haven for hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining amid the stunning Coast Mountain Range. The pedestrian-friendly Whistler Village boasts charming shops, restaurants, and a lively arts scene, while the surrounding wilderness invites exploration through activities like bear watching and kayaking. With its seamless blend of outdoor excitement and cozy mountain charm, Whistler promises an unforgettable travel experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Edmonton, AB
Edmonton is the capital city of Alberta, a province of Canada. Its metro area is home to 1.3 million people (2016), and is the northernmost city of at least one million people in North America, the fifth-largest city in Canada and the largest Canadian city farther than 200 kilometres (120 mi) from the US border. Edmonton is famous for its beautiful river valley park system, the North Saskatchewan River Valley, which offers over 100 kilometres (62 mi) of recreational trails, wildlife viewing, and city views. The river valley also contains many parks, including Fort Edmonton Park, Canada's largest historical park. If the great outdoors is not what you seek, the city also offers West Edmonton Mall, the largest shopping mall in North America. On top of that, Edmonton has a vibrant theatre community, a busy cycle of annual festivals, national sports teams active year-round, and wonderful winter recreational opportunities.
Halifax, NS
Lake Louise, AB
Winnipeg, MB
Winnipeg is Manitoba's capital and largest city, and stands midway on the Trans-Canada Highway and railway. With 705,000 inhabitants (2016), The Peg dominates the Canadian Prairies and is as diverse as the majority of Canada.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Niagara-on-the-Lake is a town of 17,500 people (2016) in the Niagara Region of Ontario, Canada. It sits on the shore of Lake Ontario at the mouth of the Niagara River. It is a frequent destination for daytrippers from Niagara Falls, and a destination in its own right. It is in the middle of a thriving grape- and fruit-growing area featuring many wineries. There are also several craft breweries. The town name is often abbreviated NOTL.
Jasper, AB
Banff National Park
Banff National Park is located in the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, Canada. Established in 1885, it is Canada's first national park and one of the most visited parks in the country. Spanning over 6,641 square kilometers (2,564 square miles), Banff National Park is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. It offers a wide range of recreational activities and attracts millions of visitors each year.
Geography
Banff National Park is situated in the western part of Alberta, near the border with British Columbia. It is part of the larger Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage site, which also includes Jasper, Kootenay, and Yoho National Parks. The park's landscape is dominated by towering mountain peaks, including the iconic Rocky Mountains, glaciers, alpine meadows, and dense forests. It is also home to several rivers and more than 1,000 glacial-fed lakes, such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.Flora and Fauna
Banff National Park boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park's vegetation varies with elevation, from dense coniferous forests at lower elevations to alpine meadows and tundra at higher elevations. Common tree species include Douglas fir, lodgepole pine, and Engelmann spruce. Wildlife in the park includes iconic species such as grizzly bears, black bears, moose, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, wolves, and cougars. Birdwatchers can spot various species, including bald eagles, golden eagles, and ospreys.Attractions and Activities
Banff National Park offers numerous attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Some of the highlights include: Lake Louise: Known for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop, Lake Louise is one of the park's most famous attractions. Visitors can hike around the lake, canoe, or simply take in the breathtaking scenery. Moraine Lake: Another picturesque lake, Moraine Lake is surrounded by towering peaks and offers excellent hiking opportunities. The view from the Rockpile Trail is particularly famous. Icefields Parkway: This scenic highway stretches for 232 kilometers (144 miles) between Lake Louise and Jasper National Park. It offers stunning views of glaciers, waterfalls, and mountains. Wildlife Viewing: Banff National Park is a fantastic place to observe wildlife. Visitors can join guided tours or explore the park's many trails to spot animals in their natural habitat. Hiking and Mountaineering: The park boasts an extensive network of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day hikes. Mountaineering enthusiasts can also tackle some of the park's majestic peaks. Hot Springs: The Banff Upper Hot Springs and the Cave and Basin National Historic Site offer opportunities to relax in natural hot springs while enjoying beautiful surroundings.Conservation and Preservation
Banff National Park is committed to the preservation and protection of its natural and cultural heritage. Efforts are made to maintain the delicate balance between providing recreational opportunities for visitors and conserving the park's ecosystems. Parks Canada, the agency responsible for managing national parks in Canada, implements measures to mitigate the impact of human activities, ensure wildlife protection, and promote sustainable tourism.Windsor, ON
Windsor is a mid-sized Canadian city on the southwest tip of Ontario. It's an extremely multicultural city with over 20% of its population having been born outside of Canada. The city's rich cultural background is evident in its Middle Eastern, Italian, and Asian neighbourhoods. Just across the Detroit River from Detroit and the American border, it's one of the very few places where you have to go south to enter Canada. Its main waterfront park stretches about 5 km (3.1 mi), from the 1929 Ambassador suspension bridge past the contemporary Windsor Sculpture Park. It ends near the 1894 Italianate Canadian Club Heritage Centre, which recalls when Windsor was a source for liquor smuggled to the Prohibition-era states.
Mississauga, ON
Mississauga is a city in southwestern Ontario, Canada. It is Toronto's largest suburb and Canada's sixth largest city.