the colorful houses of St John's Nova Scotia

22 Best Places to Visit in Canada

Oh Canada! Our neighbor to the north. If you asked ten people in the United States what they picture in their mind when they think about Canada, they’d probably say Niagara Falls, maple syrup and hockey.

But Canada is so much more than just those things. It’s badlands and beaches, snowy peaks and alpine lakes and plenty of modern sleek cities ideal for adding to a North America road trip.

On this list, experienced traveler writers are sharing what they consider to be the best places to visit in Canada. Let’s go!

Places to Visit in Canada

With its ten provinces and three territories, Canada’s land mass is slightly larger than the United States. However, it’s significantly less populated – with over half of its population living below the 49th parallel within a few hours of the United States border.

That means there are plenty of Canadian places to visit with less crowds. Plus, visiting Canada via car or airplane from the United States couldn’t be easier. The border is open and there are currently no vaccination requirements.

Once in the country, larger Canadian cities provide plenty of good public transportation so depending on where your travels take you, you might not even need a vehicle to get around.

Because of that, and it’s safe and welcoming atmosphere, Canada is the perfect for solo female travelers.

Now, for the best places to visit in Canada list. For future reference, bookmark this article and add this map to your own Google Maps account by clicking the star at the end of the title. Clicking the icon in the left hand corner provides more info about each individual destination.

1. Vancouver

Vancouver, British Columbia, on Canada’s western coast, is one of the most breathtaking cities and one of the best places to visit in Canada. It’s so so vibrant and diverse, with a variety of different neighborhoods for travelers to explore, you will find it hard to get bored here.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of opportunities to hike with some of Canada’s best views. And for those looking for an urban experience, the city has a lively nightlife and a fantastic food scene. Stay near the action at Delta Hotels by Marriott.

Vancouver is also home to many cultural attractions, such as Granville Island and Gastown. There are also plenty of art galleries, theatres and live music venues scattered throughout the city. One of the best things to do here is to visit the Vancouver Aquarium which is a fantastic day out for all!

No matter what type of traveler you are, Vancouver has something to offer. And no matter if you are arriving from Europe or beyond, you will find plenty of great airlines to use. Just make sure you bring a lightweight suitcase to fill up on some amazing souvenirs! 

Recommended by Lowri of Many Other Roads

the wharf in Vancouver British Columbia
Vancouver, British Columbia

2. Riding Mountain National Park

Nestled in the heart of Manitoba, Canada is Riding Mountain National Park. Home to the beautiful Clear Lake, this picturesque lake town is full of activities for all ages. The central region of Canada is often overlooked, but it’s by far one of the most underrated spots and worthy of a fabulous vacation!

A visit to Riding Mountain National Park and Clear Lake Manitoba is a must in Canada due to the excellent hiking, biking and lake activities. Go kayaking on Clear Lake or do a fun sunset cruise. 

Walk the Ominnik Marsh Trail, bike the Wasagaming Trail, enjoy time at the sauna or venture out to Lake Audy and witness bison in the wild. 

To get to Clear Lake Manitoba, you’ll want to fly into the Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport and rent a car for the 3.5 hour trip. While camping is available in Riding Mountain National Park, the mosquitos may just drive you indoors so a stay at Arrowhead Family Resort or Honeycomb Bed & Breakfast is recommended.

Recommended by Nikki of She Saves She Travels 

a kayak on Clear Lake near Manitoba
Kayaking on Clear lake

3. Cape Breton, Nova Scotia

The Cabot Trail is an iconic road trip in Nova Scotia, Canada. It is renowned for its spectacular coastal scenery and winding roads that hug the Cape Breton Highlands. With views of the Gulf of St Lawrence, rugged cliffs, forests and quaint fishing villages, it’s no wonder why this route is one of the best places to visit in Canada.

The best way to experience the Cabot Trail is by driving it yourself. The drive is just under 300k and takes about five hours to complete, but you could easily spend 2 days on the Cabot Trail or more, as it’s well worth taking some extra time to explore the area. There are plenty of stops along the way to admire the views, take pictures, go hiking or even camp overnight.

For accommodations, you can choose from campsites in the National Park, or hotels and cottages in Pleasant Bay or Cheticamp. Baddeck and Ingonish are also good bases for exploring the area if you want to stay in a larger town.

Recommended by Erin of Wanderlust With Kids

the coast and road of the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia
The Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia

4. St John’s

A place you are going to want to visit in Canada is St. John’s, Newfoundland. Known for its friendly locals, colorful houses, and rich history, this charming city is a must-visit place when visiting the east coast.

It’s especially popular to visit Newfoundland during the early summer when you have a chance to see icebergs, puffins, and whales along the eastern coast of the island.

A few of the top things to do when in St. John’s include visiting the historic castle at Signal Hill, seeing plenty of colorful homes at Jellybean Row, and watching the sunrise at Cape Spear Lighthouse. The sunrises here are the first in the whole continent!

Plan to stay in St John’s at a hotel overlooking the waterfront, like the Alt Hotel or JAG Hotel. Located right downtown, you are close to a variety of restaurants and a short drive away from any of the attractions in the St .John’s area.

Recommended by Melissa of My Beautiful Passport

the colorful houses of St John's Nova Scotia
Colorful houses in St John’s, Newfoundland

5. Eastern Townships of Quebec

Experience the Eastern Townships in Quebec! This beautiful region sits at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains lying between Montreal and Quebec City.

An area for nature and outdoor enthusiasts – known for its hiking, biking, and skiing – with four provincial parks and three mountains. A foodie’s delight with farm-to-table dining, fruit orchards and vineyards producing top wines that makes it one of the best places to visit in Canada.

It’s also home to 13 designated Les Coeurs Villageois, charming villages each with its own distinct character and things to do. One such village is Lac-Brome or Brome Lake. Crime novelist Louise Penny was so inspired by Brome Lake that it influenced her book’s famous village of Three Pines.

Brome Lake is full of delicious eateries, like Domenica, Le Sapin, or Le Relais Bistro. Quench your thirst at Leon Courville winery or La Knowlton Co. microbrewery. And, go treasure hunting in the town’s many antique shops. Auberge Knowlton is the ideal hotel for a village getaway.

Recommended by Renee of Dream Plan Experience 

Broome Lake with a church in the background
Brome Lake

6. Lake Louise

Lake Louise is the prettiest place in Canada and considered by many to be the crown jewel of Banff National Park with its milky blue lake, sitting in the shadow of the towering Canadian Rockies in Alberta.

There are tons of things to do at Lake Louise. If you’re visiting Banff in summer, you’ll be able to explore some of the iconic trails that leave from its shores, like the Lake Agnes Trail (where you’ll hike to a teahouse, perched next to an alpine lake) or the Little Beehive Trail.

Alternatively, you can enjoy the stunning waters up close and personal by renting a canoe and gliding across the glacier-fed lake. 

If you’re visiting in the winter, Lake Louise freezes over, offering the most epic ice skating rink you could ask for. While the weather may be on the chilly side, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise sits on the banks of the lake, offering the perfect respite to warm up and have a mug of steaming hot chocolate.

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

the gorgeous blue green water of Lake Louise
Stunning Lake Louise

7. Halifax

One of the best places to visit in Canada with plenty to see and do, head over to Halifax, Nova Scotia.

While you’re in Halifax be sure to check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic. This museum has numerous exhibitions. It’s most notable is the large collection of artifacts recovered from the Titanic.

The Halifax Citadel National Historic Site offers a look into the history of the city’s old military fort. There’s a small admission to go inside but you can walk around the surrounding grounds at no cost.

Make sure to visit the Halifax Public Gardens. This park is free to enter and is filled with various plants and flowers that look stunning while in bloom. Enjoy a walk around the garden paths and peaceful views of Griffin’s Pond near the center of the park.

For a competitively priced hotel in a great location consider staying at the Barrington Hotel. This hotel offers clean rooms located walking distance from many of the sites to see in Halifax.

Enjoy your visit to beautiful Halifax!

Recommended by Chelsea of Adventures of Chels.

8. Winnipeg

Located in the Canadian province of Manitoba, Winnipeg is a vibrant city known for its diverse culture, rich history, and beautiful natural surroundings. Winnipeg offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, an incredible food scene, awesome museums, beautiful hotels – like the Fort Garry Hotel – and so much more.

And although Winnipeg has a ton of amazing attractions, the one that it is most known for is the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. This is the first museum in the world solely dedicated to the subject of human rights. Not only are its exhibits thought-provoking and informative, but the building itself is an architectural masterpiece.

If you enjoy the outdoors, Winnipeg has you covered! Take a stroll through Assiniboine Park which features a variety of gardens, a zoo, and an English-style conservatory. The park also has a number of playgrounds and picnic areas, making it the perfect family-friendly place to spend a summer day.

Another of Winnipeg’s most popular attractions is The Forks historic site. Located at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, The Forks features a variety of shops, restaurants, and markets, as well as an extensive network of walkways and bike paths. It is also the site of several festivals and events throughout the year.

And if you are a foodie, the Forks Market is where it’s at! This indoor market features a wide variety of eateries and local vendors, serving up food from around the world.

Recommended by Marianne of The Journeying Giordanos

Forks Market In Winnipeg
The Forks Market

9. Drumheller

Drumheller is a small town located an hour and a half from Calgary in Alberta. The town is nicknamed the Dinosaur Capital of the World for good reason – many dinosaur fossils have been found here.

Drumheller is in the heart of the Canadian Badlands, where you’ll discover a surreal landscape. As soon as you enter the valley, you’ll feel transported to a scene of The Land Before Time.

There are many things to do in Drumheller and the Canadian Badlands. One of the most popular attractions is the The Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology. It’s the only museum in Canada dedicated to the study of dinosaur fossils.

Then, a walk around the hoodoos is a must-do. Hoodoos – also called fairy chimneys – are unique rock formations that can be found throughout the area.

Finally, the Drumheller Valley was once thriving with coal mining. Today, it’s possible to visit historic mines and ghost towns such as the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site, the East Coulee School Museum and The Last Chance Saloon in Wayne.

Staying at the centrally located Canalta Jurassic Hotel provides the opportunity to explore the area,

Recommended by Emilie of Love Life Abroad.

Rocks in the Canadian Badlands
Explore the Canadian Badlands

10. Tofino

Tofino, located in British Columbia along the Pacific Coast, is truly a sight to behold. It offers lush, evergreen forests and picturesque shorelines adorned with sandy beaches and rocky coves, epic surf and laid-back vibes. The salty air mixed with the sweet aroma of the rainforest creates an unforgettable atmosphere that can’t be found anywhere else in Canada!

Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks on one of the many Tofino hiking trails, take a surf lesson, lounge at the beach, or hop on a boat tour for an up close view of the native sea life. Whether one is seeking a romantic retreat or an adventure destination for family vacations, Tofino makes an ideal choice due its incredible beauty and stunning landscapes.

Tofino is a stunning destination that shines any time of year, but especially during the summer. If you prefer sunny days and warm temperatures, plan your visit between June and August. You may also want to consider traveling there in wintertime – with moody views of snow-capped mountains, and colossal waves at storm season peak.

Experience an unforgettable escape by staying at Hotel Zed, the grooviest hotel in Tofino that takes you back to a 1970s-style getaway.

Recommended by Debbie of World Adventurists

the beach near Tofino British Columbia
Tofino, British Columbia

11. Banff

Banff is a great bucket list destination in Alberta, Canada. Banff town is inside Banff National Park and is surrounded by mountain ranges, pristine blue alpine lakes, and waterfalls. Banff is around 2 hours drive from Calgary International airport. 

One of the most popular things to do in Banff is visit Johnston Canyon waterfalls and hiking to the lower and upper falls. Ride the Banff gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain for some panoramic views of the mountain ranges. Take a boat ride on Lake Minnewanka.

Banff Hot Springs are nice for a rejuvenating mineral soak. Banff town is a popular place for shopping and dining and is very walkable. Lake Louise is only 30 minutes away from Banff and Jasper is 3 hours away via the scenic Icefields Parkway drive. All of these are amazing places to visit near Banff.

Moose Hotel and Suites is a wonderful hotel in Banff downtown and within walking distance of many restaurants. 

Contributed by Anu Agarwal of Destination Checkoff. 

a canoe on a lake in Banff National Park
Banff, Alberta

12. Victoria

Victoria, located in the province of British Columbia, is one of the best places to visit in Canada. Many of the top attractions in Victoria are located within a small area, making it very easy to explore this beautiful city.

Take a tour of the incredible Legislative Assembly building, visit the Royal British Columbia Museum, and see the totem poles in Thunderbird Park. Victoria is also where you’ll find Canada’s oldest Chinatown.

Victoria is known as the ‘Garden City’ of Canada.  One of the best things to do during your stay in Victoria is to visit the famous Butchart Gardens. Just a half-hour drive from Victoria, the spectacular gardens – some of the best in the world! — are well worth the trip.

Whale-watching tours are also very popular, as the waters around Victoria are known for gray whales, orcas, and humpback whales. Or enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Victoria and the harbor on an unforgettable seaplane tour!

The Victoria Regent Waterfront Hotel & Suites is near the water and convenient to many of the other things to do in Victoria.

Contributed by Lisa of Waves and Cobblestones

the front of the Legislative Assembly in Victoria, British Columbia
The Legislative Assembly in Victoria, British Columbia

13. Picton

One of the best places to visit in Canada is Picton! As one of the many charming Ontario small towns, Picton is best known as the gateway to Prince Edward County! Home to beautiful beaches and ample wineries to enjoy.

A getaway to Picton offers visitors plenty of things to do. After you’ve wandered and shopped your way through its quaint downtown, enjoy one of the many great restaurants. Then head out to visit one, or more, of the area’s many wineries! If wine isn’t your thing, there are also cideries and breweries nearby!

Other attractions include Birdhouse City, Millennium Lookout, as well as Macaulay Heritage Park and Museum.

And don’t forget to visit Sandbanks Provincial Park! This incredible park is filled with awesome hiking trails and beaches.

The most popular place to stay in Picton is the June Motel. This adorable boutique hotel offers rosé to welcome you in and plenty of Instagram-worthy moments.

Recommended by Stephanie from The World As I See It

Downtown Picton, Ontario
Downtown Picton, Ontario

14. Montreal

One place that everyone should make an effort to visit in Canada is the vibrant city of Montreal. The city is absolutely massive and well-known for its diverse culture that’s been heavily influenced by the French. Plus, Montreal is packed with exciting activities and attractions everyone can enjoy!

For example, if you’re looking to explore the city’s rich French heritage, head to Old Town where you’ll find historic buildings, delicious restaurants serving classic cuisine, and tons of cobblestone streets that are quite reminiscent of Europe!

Another must-see destination is the flourishing Montreal Botanical Gardens. Here, visitors can wander and admire a plethora of blossoming flowers and plants set against a picturesque landscape.

And to top off your perfect stay in Montreal, consider booking a room at Hotel Novotel Montreal Centre. Here, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the cityscape, luxurious amenities, and a convenient location close to all the best food!

Recommended by Kristin of Global Travel Escapades

Downtown Montreal
Vibrant Montreal

15. Port Renfrew

Port Renfrew is a little fishing village surrounded by ancient rainforest, on the Pacific Rim of Vancouver Island, British Columbia with a population of only about 150 people.

Massive forests of Canada’s tallest and largest Douglas Firs, Cedars, and Spruce Trees surround the town.  The old growth forests in the nearby  San Juan Valley are home to many of Canada’s largest and oldest trees.

Sitting at the head of Port San Juan and the mouth of the San Juan River, fishing, kayaking, and birding are popular activities around Port Renfrew.  The area offers fantastic hiking trails and recreational activities for all ages.

Port Renfrew is the starting point of two world renowned hiking trails stretching in opposite directions;  The West Coast Trail, and the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. Both are multi-day backpacking trails with limited facilities.

On these trails you camp and carry your tent, food and all gear for the duration of the trek. The town has several accommodation options including cabins, chalets and camping. The highly rated Wild Renfrew Seaside Cottages are perfect.

Recommended by Campbell from Stingy Nomads

Hiking ladder on the west coast trail near Port Renfrew, British Columbia
Hiking the West Coast Trail from the Gordon River trailhead near Port Renfrew

16. Prince Albert National Park

One of just two national parks in Saskatchewan, lush Prince Albert National Park is heavily forested and dotted with hundreds of clean, quiet lakes.

This camping, hiking and fishing mecca boasts pristine northern Saskatchewan wilderness and offers a completely different version of the province than the flat expanses of farm and grasslands in the south.

And, while there are endless peaceful areas of untouched nature in Prince Albert National Park, those who prefer to mix their backwoods explorations with a dash of civilization need look no further than fun, vibrant Waskesiu Lake.

This lovely beach town features many restaurants, shops, activities, a world-class golf course and even one of the oldest movie theatres in Canada, yet you are never more than a few steps from unspoiled forest.

Waskesiu Lake has a wide range of accommodation options from basic campsites to luxury condos, including a collection of national park oTENTik – think part tent part cabin – that offers an ideal mix of nature and comfort.

Recommended by Dean and Laynni at Routinely Nomadic

Picnic tables and a lake at Prince Albert National Park
Lakeside at Prince Albert National Park

17. Toronto is One of the Best Places to Visit in Canada

Toronto, in the province of Ontario, is Canada’s largest city and known for its numerous attractions including Niagara Falls, the CN Tower and more. Toronto has a diverse population with many different and distinct neighborhoods.

From the old buildings in the Distillery District to the cool Kensington market and the beaches in the east, you can easily spend a day exploring each one.

Whether you’re visiting Toronto in winter or summer, there is plenty to do! If you’re visiting Toronto for the first time, you should spend a day in downtown Toronto visiting the city’s top attractions which include the CN Tower, the Toronto aquarium and St Lawrence Market.

You could also visit Casa Loma or head out to the Toronto Islands which are accessed via a short ferry ride with incredible views of the Toronto skyline. For a centrally located hotel near the harbor, choose One King Hotel & Residences in the Old Toronto neighborhood.

For longer stays, be sure to take a day trip out to Niagara Falls! Though the area around the falls is quite built up and not as attractive as you’d imagine, the falls themselves are mighty impressive. The Maid of the Mist boat tours are worth taking to get up close to the falls – just be prepared to get wet!

Recommended by Hannah from That Adventurer

a view of the Toronto skyline
The Toronto Skyline

18. Churchill

Churchill lies at the northern end of Manitoba on the shores of Hudson Bay. It is the definition of “in the middle of nowhere”. In fact, there are no roads into town – the only way to get there is a very long train ride from Winnipeg or a much shorter flight in a small plane, also from Winnipeg.  

It’s not easy to get there, but it is absolutely worth the effort. After a long journey, it’s best to plan on staying a few days. Check out the Iceberg Inn with a convenient airport shuttle.

Churchill is known as the ‘polar bear capital of the world’ because it is one of the best places to see polar bears. In October and November, polar bears gather in large numbers waiting for Hudson Bay to freeze so they can venture on the ice to their winter hunting grounds.

Enormous tundra buggies take tourists out on to the tundra outside of the small town where you can safely see these cute – and extremely dangerous – animals up close.  

This is not the only time to visit Churchill, however. In summer (June – September), the nearby Churchill River is one of the best places in the world to see beluga whales. You can take a small boat onto the river and see these elusive animals swimming nearby. It is even possible to snorkel or dive with them.

Thirdly, in February and March, Churchill is one of the best places on the planet to see the Northern Lights. The town lies just under the aurora circle, where the incredible lights are at their most active. With no mountains and no light around, there is nothing to obstruct the views on clear nights. 

So, it is worth visiting Churchill not once, not even twice, but three times throughout the year! 

James Ian from Travel Collecting 

a polar bear near Churchill, Manitoba
A polar bear near Churchill, Manitoba

19. Moose Jaw

When planning a trip to Canada one place you just have to go to is Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan and not only because of the 34 foot (10.36 m) Moose (Mac) that stands as a sentry to the city.

It is also known as Canada’s most notorious city, with tunnels scattered throughout beneath the city. The stories like the tunnels themselves and varied, said to be originally built to provide power and steam to the city.

However, these were abandoned in the early 1900’s, before being used as passages and homes by the Chinese immigrants, wishing to avoid the head tax. By the 1920’s with prohibition, it is said the tunnels became a haven for the infamous illegal operations of “Al Capone”.

A perfect place to hide the illicit operations of a gangster. Using the tunnels for running illegal alcohol, gambling and speakeasy bars beneath the streets of Moose Jaw.

Whilst the tunnels are a major drawcard to Moose Jaw, alternate activities include historical trolley car tours, sharing the history and mysteries of the city. Additionally, you can enjoy wandering the streets to view the murals scattered in the city or visit one of the local or state parks.

When visiting Moose Jaw a stay at the Temple Gardens Hotel & Spa is a must, taking time to enjoy the geothermal pool & spa.

Recommended by Jeanine form Lets go a Wandering

Mac the Moose, a statue in Moose Jaw
Mac The Moose Photo coutesy of Hannah at HH Travel Lifestyle

20. Calgary

Only 1.5 hours’ drive from Banff, Calgary is the gateway to the Canadian Rockies.  A huge and sprawling city, it also harbors a vibrant downtown, and great public transit. Downtown Calgary is packed with great shopping and restaurants, which are kept accessible even in the depths of winter thanks to the all-weather walkways.

Visiting the Calgary Tower will allow you to see the city from a bird’s eye view. Despite the size of the city, it’s easy to do a self-guided tour of Calgary, because the CTrain light rail system will take you wherever you need to go. Stay at Delta Hotels by Marriott – near the riverfront and superbly convenient to public transportation.

The whole city also comes alive each July for the Calgary Stampede – the world’s largest outdoor rodeo. Whether you are visiting the city as a jumping-off point to a Rocky Mountain road-trip, or to indulge in your love of cowboys and rodeos, Calgary has much to offer.

Recommended by Hannah from HH Lifestyle Travel

buildings in Downtown Calgary
The streets of Calgary

21. Niagara Wine Region

Even though Niagara Falls is Canada’s number one tourist attraction, one of its hidden gems is the Niagara wine region between Toronto and Niagara Falls.

Hugging the coast of Lake Ontario near the city of St Catherine’s, Canada’s premier wine region is known for Riesling, Chardonnay, and ice wine, which is a sweet dessert wine made from grapes that are frozen on the vine. How Canadian, eh? 

A day spent winery hopping in the Niagara wine region won’t let you down. You’ll even get to taste wines made by The Great One himself, as Wayne Gretzky owns a vineyard right off the main road. There are countless wineries to try, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at just how good some of the wines are. 

End the day with dinner in the picturesque town of Niagara on the Lake or sunset at Niagara Falls, one of the most spectacular waterfalls on the planet. Just try to avoid the tourist trap that is Niagara Falls City if you can, and you’ll be golden! 

To overnight in Niagara on the Lake, 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa is a top rated property near the water and all other activities.

a bulding at Wayne Gretzky Estates vinery
Wayne Gretzky Estates

22. Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake in Banff National Park is truly one of the most beautiful and most visited destinations in Canada! The vibrant turquoise water and the magnificent snow-peaked mountains make it easy to see why it is one of the most picturesque lakes in the world.

Whilst Moraine Lake is smaller than the wildly famous Lake Louise nearby, a lot of people actually prefer Moraine Lake as the landscape is simply breathtaking and it is a lot less crowded.

Moraine Lake is only accessible from June to September due to potential avalanches and large snowfalls from October to early June. Due to overcrowding in the car park, personal vehicles are now not allowed here, so to reach Moraine Lake you will need to either reach it by Shuttle bus, commercial buses or taxi.

The nearest accommodation is Moraine Lake Lodge, situated right next to the lake and offering fabulous views.

Recommended by Catrina of 24 Hours Layover

an overlook with a girl looking at Moraine Lake
Moraine lake – one of the best places to visit in Canada

How to Visit Canada From the U.S.

To enter Canada, United States citizens need proof of citizenship and identification. Approved documents include a U.S. passport, a U.S. passport card or a NEXUS card, if you are driving. No visa is required as long as you aren’t planning on staying more than 180 days.

Most major airlines fly directly to larger Canadian cities. From there, you can rent a vehicle. Canada recognizes U.S. driver’s licenses so you won’t need an international drivers license.

Another plus about driving and road tripping in Canada as a visitor from the United States is that you drive on the same side of the road.

Canada Travel Quick Guide

Currency – Canada uses Canadian dollars. Even though the exchange is not 1 to 1 (currently 100CDN to 74USD), it’s pretty easy to convert. Download a currency converter on your phone to help. I like Adiante Ventures currency apps.

Credit Cards – Credit cards are widely accepted in Canada. The most common are Visa and Master Card. American Express is moderately accepted at major retailers and Discover is the least accepted of the four brands. Check with your bank or credit card company to determine any applicable fees and foreign transaction fees.

Tipping – Even though servers earn more in Canada than U.S. servers, tipping is still very much part of the culture in Canada. Anywhere between 15% to 20% is acceptable, with as much as 25% for excellent service. It’s a good idea to research tipping etiquette in the province where you are traveling.

Language – Canada is a bilingual country. English and French are the two official languages. However, there are over approximately 60 indigenous languages spoken and you’ll hear over 200 languages from around the world.

Healthcare – Since Canada provides universal healthcare for their citizens, do travelers need travel insurance in Canada? The answer is yes. Most insurance policies from the states only cover you at home. Of course, check with your insurance company but the best way to be protected is by purchasing own policy. TravelInsurance.com is a good place to start researching different types of coverage.

Safety – Canada is a safe country but it never hurts to implement some travel safety tips wherever you are traveling.

Electricity – like the rest of North America, Canada uses a standard 120 V so no need for an adapter or converter if you are traveling from the states.

Best Places to Visit in Canada Round Up

So that’s it for the list. What did we miss? I’d love to hear your thoughts and recommendations for the best places to visit in Canada. Along with any other helpful Canadian info you’d like to pass along. Until then…

See you on the road!


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One Comment

  1. I appreciate the variety of destinations mentioned, from stunning natural landscapes like Moraine Lake to vibrant cities like Vancouver. I’m curious to know if there are any specific travel tips or unique experiences that the author recommends for each of these destinations. Any insider suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

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