Canada

Super useful and totally free travel guides to Canada

The flag of Canada in front view of the False Creek
False Creek and the Burrard street bridge in Vancouver

Why We Love Canada – Sure, it doesn’t get quite the attention of its southern neighbor, but only a foolish traveler would sleep on Canada. City slickers will be surprised by the diversity in urban centers like Vancouver and Toronto. Those looking for a relaxing island getaway will find paradise in Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. And, of course, outdoor adventurers will love all those square kilometers of mountains, lakes, and forests just begging to be explored. 

Best of Canada

🏙️ Destinations

View of the Canadian Museum for Human Rights at night
Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Covering such a large area, no two places in Canada are alike. Here, you’ll find diverse cultures, landscapes, festivals, and some of the friendliest locals in the world. Some of the best places to visit in Canada include:

  • Winnipeg – Canada’s centralmost city, Winnipeg is home to world-class museums, pro sports teams, and some of the best winter activities in the country.
  • Nova Scotia – Home to gems like Halifax, Cape Breton Island, and Lunenburg, finding fun in this Atlantic province is a breeze.
  • Prince Edward Island – An island on Canada’s east coast, Prince Edward Island is known for sprawling red and white sand beaches, lighthouses, and its fab culinary scene.
  • Manitoba – A prairie province, Manitoba is where fields meet the Canadian shield. Expect crystal-clear lakes, dozens of fesitvals, and plenty of adventure activities.
  • Vancouver​​​​ – A west-coast city with a laid-back feel, Vancouver is a metropolis sandwiched between the mountains and the ocean — perfect for outdoorsy, adventurous types.

✨ Things to Do

From hitting the slopes in the mountains to exploring the culturally-diverse city streets, Canada is perfect for all kinds of travelers. Some of the best experiences in the country include:

  • Anne of Green Gables – Anne of Green Gables is one of Canada’s most famous stories. Find a ton of related sites and experiences in Prince Edward Island.
  • Niagara Falls – Straddling the USA / Ontario provincial border, Niagara Falls is both an exciting city and a natural wonder.
  • Banff National Park – Canada’s first National Park, Banff is where you’ll find towering mountains, glacial lakes, and some of the most picturesque accommodations in the country.
  • Fraser River – The lengthiest river in British Columbia, check out the Fraser River for salmon fishing, whitewater rafting, wine tasting, and more.
  • Cypress Hills – Located in both Saskatchewan and Alberta, Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park is characterized by plant and animal diversity and a variety of landscapes.
Aerial view of the Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls

Canada Travel Advice

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

Being a northern country, summer is naturally the most popular time to visit Canada. But the autumn months of September to November might be our secret pick for the best time to visit Canada. The cool weather is just right, summer crowds have disappeared, prices drop and you get to witness the perfect fall scenery. Additionally, you’ll get to experience different celebrations and festivals that fall during the autumn season.

👉 Read full guide to the best times to visit Canada

⚠️ Safety

Ranking sixth in the Global Peace Index, Canada is a very safe place to visit for travelers. Still, we always recommend checking the latest US State Department travel advisories for your destination.

👉 Tips & Things to Know

  • 🚗 – Canada Drives on the Right – As in the USA, Canadians drive on the right hand side of the road and pass on the left.
  • 📍 – Pick a Region or Two – Canada is the second largest country in the world, and getting around takes a long time. Unless you have months to spend, pick one or two areas for your trip to Canada.
  • 🚌 – Research Transportation – Not every Canadian city has extensive transportation systems, and getting between cities is best done with a car. Research how to get between destinations prior to your arrival.
  • 💵 – Expect Sales Tax – Sales tax is often not included in the upfront price of products and services in Canada. Know the specific sales tax rates for the province you’ll be visiting.
  • 👂 – Know the Regional Language – While most of Canada is English-speaking, Quebec’s first language is French and New Brunswick is officially bilingual.

👉 See all of our top Canada travel tips.

🧳 What to Pack

  • ❄️ – Seasonal Gear – With frigid winters and blazing hot summers, packing seasonally is a must. Research weather and climate for your specific destination beforehand.
  • ☀️ – Sunscreen – Regardless of the season, if you’re going to be spending time outdoors in Canada then you need some serious SPF.
  • 👞 – Good Shoes – One of the most important travel items, having a sturdy pair of both walking shoes and hiking boots will be a game changer on your trip.
  • ☂️ – Travel Umbrella – Weather in Canada can change on a dime and spring, summer, and fall are used to periodic showers. Always have a small umbrella in your daypack for emergencies.

🤓 Facts & Info

  • Population – 38 million
  • Capital – Ottawa
  • Currency – Canadian Dollar ($1 = ~1.41 dollars)
  • Language – English
  • Plugs – Type A or B, 120V / 60Hz.

💵 Budgeting & Money

Major debit and credit cards are widely accepted in Canada, with Visa and MasterCard being the most popular. ATMs widely available. 

🦺 Travel Insurance

Even in a country as safe as Canada, you never know what could happen. From trip interruptions to activity-related injuries, being financially prepared with travel insurance is a smart move.

👉 Read our full guide to travel insurance for Canada.

🚘 Road Trips

Unlike elsewhere in North America, Canada doesn’t have an extensive public transportation system. Renting a car and taking a road trip is one of the best ways to see the country.

👉 Check out our list of the best road trips in Canada.

📰 Canada Travel Guides

Getting planning your trip to Canada with all our Canada travel guides: