Canada is the second-largest country in the world, so you can imagine the plethora of things to do and places to explore – from Vancouver, British Columbia, in the west to Quebec and Toronto in the east. The country is teeming with natural beauty and activities for outdoorsy types, but Canada’s largest cities are also great for exploring, trying new foods, and maybe even learning a little French.
READ ABOUT CANADA
WHEN TO GO
The best time to visit Canada is from May through September, when there’s great weather and the beautiful lush scenery is at its peak. It can be pretty cold between November and April, but those are also prime skiing months, if you’re going to Canada for winter sports.
High season in Canada is between June and August, and between December and March at the ski resorts. Canada is really large though, and there’s never really too many people to contend with, no matter what time of year you go. You may just want to avoid the major tourist areas during high season, as prices will go up and availability will be low.
WHERE TO GO
There are many large cities to explore in Canada. Toronto is the biggest. Montreal and Vancouver are both fantastic, too.
Ski Resorts
There is tremendous skiing to be done in Canada. Try resorts like Whister Blackcomb and Mount Tremblant.
National Parks
Canada is filled with spectacular scenery at its numerous National Parks, like Banff and Glacier National Park.
Big Cities
There are many large cities to explore in Canada. Toronto is the biggest. Montreal and Vancouver are both fantastic, too.
The Northern Territories
Making up nearly 40% of Canada’s total landmass, it’s one of the best places to see Northern Lights. Plus, polar bears!
WHERE TO STAY
(You can use the links below to read reviews, check prices or book a stay – they are affiliate links which means we’ll make a small commission when you use them. We very much appreciate it!)
In Vancouver
Vancouver is a lovely seaside city. It’s a great launching point for adventurers who want to explore the wilderness on and around Vancouver Island. We like to stay in the city for a few days before venturing off, and the best place to stay in the city is right downtown, so you can walk to all the fun things there are to do there.
- Sutton Place Vancouver: Trip Advisor | Expedia
- The Listel Hotel: Trip Advisor | Expedia
In Toronto
Many of the top tourist areas of Toronto are located downtown and along the Waterfront.
- Sheraton Centre Toronto: Trip Advisor | Expedia
- Shangri-La Hotel Toronto: Trip Advisor | Expedia
In Montreal
Montreal has many distinct and interesting neighborhoods, where you might choose to stay. Still some of our favorite hotels in Montreal are located downtown.
- Sofitel Montreal Golden Mile: Trip Advisor | Expedia
- Hotel Omni Mont-Royal: Trip Advisor | Expedia
WHAT TO EAT
Canada has some unique foods that originated in certain areas, like Montreal smoked meat, but you can find these specialties throughout Canada. Here is a list of foods you should try while in Canada:
- Poutine
- Fresh seafood
- Montreal smoked meat
- Maple syrup
- Nanaimo Bars
- Nova Scotia lobster
- Tourtière
WHAT TO DRINK
Canada has some pretty well-known wine regions, including the Niagara area’s ice wines and the Okanagan Valley in British Columbia, where you’ll find both peppery Syrah’s and cool-climate pinot noirs.
For breakfast in Canada, you’ll see many people order a drink that closely resembles a Bloody Mary. That’s called a
Caesar and it’s really popular for brunch.Some other drinks you’ll find in Canada include Canadian Whiskey, Molson Beer and Moose Milk.
