Explore Canada

Canada travel guide

This Canada Travel Guide covers all the essential tips to help you plan your trip. From best time to go to best places to visit, you’ll find everything you need to know before traveling to Canada. Whether you love hiking, cities, wildlife, or road trips, you’ll find ideas to match your interests and make the most of your time in Canada.

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Things to know before you travel to Canada

  • Language: English and French, but 80% of Canadians speak English.
  • Currency: The Canadian currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD).
  • Visas: Most countries will need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to travel to Canada. You can check if your country is eligible here.
  • Time Zones: Canada has a total of six times zones.
  • Travel Insurance: Check with your travel insurance provider to get the coverage you need for your visit to Canada.
  • Mobile: Phone plans are very expensive in Canada. In my opinion, eSim cards are the cheapest way to travel to Canada.
  • Plugs: Canada uses the type B plugs (same as the US). I recommend buying a universal adapter for international travelers.
  • Transportation: The best way of getting around in Canada is by car or plane. While some areas connected by train, it’s not the most budget-friendly option. If you want to explore Canada, I’d recommend renting a car and going on a road trip.
  • Accommodation: Canada offers a wide variety of accommodation options. If you’re traveling on a budget, during the summer, consider a mix of campgrounds, Airbnbs, and budget-friendly hotels.
  • Tipping: While tipping is not legally required in Canada, it is customary to leave at least 15%. For large groups, many restaurants apply an automatic 18% gratuity.
  • Must-try food: Poutine, Tourtiere, Fresh Seafood, Nanaimo Bar, Maple Syrup, Butter Tart, Timbits.
Building in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

The Best Time to Visit Canada

Any time can be a great time to travel to Canada. But if you want to visit Banff or Jasper, or you love hiking and camping like I do, aim for July or August. The weather is warm, trails are open, and the mountain views are at their best.

But, personally, I believe September is one of the best times to visit Canada. The summer crowds are gone, prices start to drop, and the first signs of fall colors begin to appear. So, if you ask me, there is no better time to explore Canada than fall.

If you’re looking to enjoy winter activities and visit some of the best ski resorts in the world, then winter is the perfect time to travel to Canada. Whistler, in particular, has some of the best slopes in North America!

Canada Travel Blog: Travel itineraries, top places to visit, why you should travel to Canada and more

Canada Travel Guide: Best places to visit

  • Canadian Rockies: A visit to the stunning mountain range on the border of British Columbia and Alberta is a must for any Canadian travel itinerary. Explore the breathtaking scenery through hikes as well as scenic drives along the Icefield Parkway.
  • British Columbia: This province is the right blend of mountains and sea. In fact, it offers anything from amazing hiking trails and the top Whistler ski resort to one of the most beautiful cities in Canada, Vancouver.
  • Vancouver Island: Located off the West Coast in Canada, Vancouver Island is a paradise for nature lovers. The main attractions are going on a multi-day hike along the Pacific Coast, such as Juan de Fuca. Or, you can visit Victoria and surf on the famous beaches of Tofino.
  • Niagara Falls: Is located on the border between Canada and the U.S and is a highlight for many who travel to Canada. In fact, the Canadian side has the best view.
  • Northern Lights: Canada has some of the best spots to see the Aurora Borealis. In my opinion, the best places to catch the Northern Lights are Yellowknife and Churchill. But it can sometimes be seen from major cities as well.
  • Montreal and Quebec City: If you want to dive deep into the French-Canadian culture, a trip to Quebec needs to be on your Canada travel guide. In fact, here you’ll find some of the most picturesque buildings and cobblestone streets in one of Canada’s oldest cities.
  • Toronto: Canada’s largest city, where you can dine at some great restaurants. Also, don’t miss the iconic CN Tower and the culinary scene in this incredible city.
  • Canadian Maritimes: Newfoundland, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island are known for their fishing villages, the Viking history and friendly hospitality.
  • Canada’s North: Yukon, Northwest Territories and Nunavut are remote provinces with one of the best access to untouched nature.

Why Should You Travel To Canada?

Canada is a must-visit destination! I may be biased (I now call Vancouver home) but after growing up in the Dolomites and backpacking through South America for 2 months, I truly fell in love with this country. From endless outdoor adventures and world-class ski slopes to multicultural cities, Canada has so much to offer.

If it’s your first time visiting Canada, check the national parks in Alberta and BC. Alternatively, visit the lively cities of Vancouver and Toronto.

Top Destinations Based on Your Interests

Canada is the second largest country in the world. So, seeing it all in one trip is nearly impossible. That’s why this Canada travel guide is here to help you narrow down your options. It offers suggestions based on your interests and the types of activities you enjoy.

  • Banff National Park (Alberta): Banff is Canada’s oldest national park. It is also home to some of the most breathtaking mountains, glaciers and lakes. Some must-see spots include Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake, and Johnston Canyon. In fact, there is a reason why it’s one of the most famous national parks in the world.
  • Jasper National Park (Alberta): Located north of Banff, Jasper National Park is a more laid-back outdoor paradise with abundant wildlife and dark skies ideal for stargazing. In my opinion, Jasper can not be missed on a Canada travel guide.
  • Glacier National Park (British Columbia): Is ideal to experience remote wilderness. In fact, Glacier National Park is famous for its dramatic mountain peaks and glaciers.
  • Yoho National Park (British Columbia): Is located in the Canadian Rockies and is still considered a hidden gem. Yoho is not only famous for its turquoise Emerald Lake, but also for breathtaking waterfalls and excellent trails.
  • Kootenay National Park (British Columbia): Quieter and less crowded than other parks in the Rockies; Kootenay offers a more peaceful way to immerse yourself in nature.
  • Pacific Rim National Park (Vancouver Island, BC): Is home to some of the best beaches in Canada. Also, it’s an excellent spot for hiking, surfing and checking out tidepools.
  • Gros Morne National Park (Newfoundland and Labrador): A UNESCO World Heritage site offering remote wilderness experiences and dramatic fjords.
  • Okanagan Valley (British Columbia): Okanagan is one of Canada’s sunniest regions. This is also one of the main reasons why it’s ideal for wine production. In addition, the area offers the right blend of lakes, vineyards and rolling hills. The main towns to stop at are Kelowna, Penticton and Osoyoos.
  • Niagara on the Lake (Ontario): If you’ve heard about the Canadian Icewine, this is its original birthplace. If you visit some wineries in this region, make sure you also add the historic town of Niagara on the Lake to your list.
  • Quebec City (Quebec): Is one of the oldest cities in North America (founded in 1608). Also, the Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site. So, if you want to experience some Canadian history, make sure you add Quebec to your Canada travel guide.
  • Victoria (British Columbia): Founded in 1843, Victoria is the capital of British Columbia and is located on Vancouver Island.
  • St John (New Brunswick): Is one of the oldest cities in Canada and is famous for the historic buildings in the uptown area.
  • Vancouver (British Columbia): Is the right mix of dynamic and laid-back coastal city. Surrounded by the mountains and water, don’t miss the oldest neighbourhood Gastown in Vancouver.
  • Toronto (Ontario): Is Canada’s largest city and is excellent for dining, shopping as well as cultural events year-round.
  • Montreal (Quebec): If you want to experience some European vibes, then Montreal is the right place to visit. Known for its festivals, excellent food scene and cultural activities, Montreal is truly a charm.
  • Sea to Sky (British Columbia): As the name suggests, this scenic drive starts at sea level in Vancouver and leads the whole way up along the Highway to the mountains. Some of the key stops along this drive are Tunnel Bluffs, Shannon Falls, Sea to Sky Gondola, Squamish, Chief, Brandywine Falls, Whistler and Joffrey Lakes.
  • Icefields Parkway (Alberta): Is one of the most popular and scenic drives in Canada. This road trip stretches between Jasper and Banff in Alberta. It’s a must-do on any Canada travel guide.
  • Whale watching: There are multiple spots you can go on a whale watching tour, either from Vancouver, Victoria or Tofino. Additionally, the Sunshine Coast is a great spot for spotting humpback whales and orcas, even straight from the coastal shores.
  • Grizzly and Black Bears: In the spring and summer months, bears can be spotted in the main national parks in Canada. Or even in towns such as Whistler. If you adventure in the outdoors, it is recommended to carry bear spray and have bear-proof bags for storing your food. This is especially crucial if camping in the backcountry overnight.
  • Moose: Often spotted near lakes or marshes, moose are commonly seen in the more remote or wooded areas of Alberta, Ontario, and Newfoundland.
  • Polar bears: Churchill is known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World” and is the prime spot for viewing polar bears in the wild. The best time to visit is between October and November, during the fall migration season.
  • Bison: Wood Buffalo National Park (Alberta / Northwest Territories) is home to one of the largest bison herds in the world. Another great spot is Grasslands National Park (Saskatchewan) or Elk Island National Park (Alberta). Bisons used to be close to extinction in Canada, but thanks to conservation programs, they’ve since made a remarkable recovery.
3 day itinerary to Tofino, Cox Bay Lookout
WIldlife Safety

Good To Know

If you’re exploring national parks or hiking in the wilderness, be aware of wildlife, such as bears and moose. If you have an encounter, keep a safe distance, don’t panic and follow local advice on what to do in these cases. I recommend carrying bear spray at any time.

Read All My Posts In This Canada Travel Guide