Every route, park and city, planned in one place.
Guides written for first-time and repeat visitors: where to go, when it is actually worth going, what it costs and how to get around without the guesswork.
Destinations at a glance
All guides →| Destination | Province | Best for | Best window | Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Banff National Park | Alberta | Lakes, hikes, wildlife | Jun – Sep | Read |
| Quebec City | Québec | Old town, food, festivals | Jun – Oct, Feb | Read |
| Vancouver | British Columbia | City meets ocean and mountains | May – Sep | Read |
| Toronto | Ontario | Culture, food, CN Tower | May – Oct | Read |
| Whistler | British Columbia | Skiing, biking, village life | Dec – Mar, Jun – Sep | Read |
| Niagara Falls | Ontario | Falls, wineries, day trip from Toronto | May – Oct | Read |
Canada's most iconic destinations
Mountain peaks, vibrant cities, coastal charmCrystal-clear lakes, towering peaks and wildlife encounters. Canada's crown jewel for outdoor adventure.
Read guide →Cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site full of history, culture and food.
Read guide →Mountains meet the ocean in one of the world's most livable cities. Hiking, beaches and world-class restaurants.
Read guide →Canada's largest city buzzes with culture, nightlife, the CN Tower and some of the most diverse cuisine in North America.
Read guide →World-renowned ski resort in winter, mountain biking and hiking destination in summer. A year-round playground.
Read guide →One of the world's most powerful waterfalls. Go beyond the falls to the wineries, trails and charming towns nearby.
Read guide →7-day Eastern Canada itinerary
The first-timer route: Montreal, Quebec City and the LaurentiansArrive in Montreal
Check in to your hotel in Plateau-Mont-Royal. Explore St-Laurent Blvd, grab a smoked meat sandwich at Schwartz's, and stroll through Mont-Royal Park at sunset.
Montreal deep dive
Visit the Old Port, Notre-Dame Basilica and the Jean-Talon Market. Afternoon at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts. Evening in Mile End for cocktails and live music.
Drive to Quebec City (2.5 hrs)
Stop at Trois-Rivières for lunch. Arrive in Quebec City and check in inside the walls. Evening walk along Rue du Trésor and Place d'Armes.
Old Quebec and Plains of Abraham
Guided walking tour of the fortifications, Château Frontenac and Petit-Champlain. Afternoon at the Citadel and the Plains of Abraham battlefield park.
Montmorency Falls and Île d'Orléans
Morning at Montmorency Falls, higher than Niagara. Afternoon cycling tour of Île d'Orléans: local cider, strawberries and artisan cheese.
Laurentians day trip
Drive to Mont-Tremblant (1.5 hrs). Hike, kayak or bike the P'tit Train du Nord trail. Return to Quebec City for a farewell dinner.
Departure day
Morning at the farmers market in Vieux-Québec. Last coffee and croissant at Paillard, then head to the airport.
Essential Canada travel tips
What experienced travellers wish they knew before their first tripBest time to visit
June to September for cities and outdoors. February to March for skiing. October for fall foliage in Quebec and Ontario.
Budget planning
Plan around C$150 to 200 per day for mid-range travel. Book accommodation 2 to 3 months ahead in summer. A Parks Canada Discovery Pass pays off if you visit several parks.
Getting around
Rent a car for BC and the national parks. Use trains and buses between Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto. Quebec City and Montreal are very walkable.
Entry requirements
Most visitors need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization). Apply online before your flight; check the current fee and rules on the official site.
Where to stay
Mix hotels with local rentals for authentic neighbourhoods. In Quebec City, staying inside the walls is worth the premium.
Cultural etiquette
In Quebec, attempt some French; locals genuinely appreciate it. Tipping 15 to 20 percent is standard.