Top Ten Places to Visit in Canada

Author:
Jyle Dupuis
Updated:
Jul 19, 2016

I should begin by saying that all of Canada is a great, hospitable place to visit. Because of the size of Canada, most tourists will head for the bigger cities to see the sights. Be forewarned however that Canada's best features are in its natural beauty.

That is why my top ten might seem unorthodox, but if you've been to any of these places you will agree that these are Canada's best places to visit.

10. Prince Edward Island

Green pastures and the distinct red-soil cliffs make Prince Edward Island a great destination for travellers who are just looking for some relaxation or a fun day at the beach. Take a car to get around, the island is not big so you could see everything in a day.

9. Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa is the Capital City of Canada and a great place to soak in Canadian culture. The Changing of the Guard on Parliament Hill or the RCMP march are always popular sights, along with some world class museums. There are also many parks and bike paths that make summer outdoors fun. The winters aren't bad either. The Rideau Canal, which connects the Ottawa River to the Great Lakes for leisure boaters, makes for the longest skating rink in the world when it freezes.

8. Kelowna, British Columbia

Where do Canadians go on vacation? Kelowna, BC. In the heart of the Canadian Rockies is the Okanagan Valley, a river-valley that has some of Canada's best weather. Warm in the summer and mild in the winter; the most you can ask for in the Great White North. The valley produces Canada's world famous B.C. apples (illegal in the U.S.) and wine. The Valley has a marina for the avid boaters and many golf courses. Relaxing at the beach or sitting on the porch of a lakeside cottage is everyone's idea of the perfect destination.

7. Churchill, Manitoba

You might be wondering why Churchill? Well hear me out, Churchill, Manitoba is a small town in northern Manitoba on the shores of the Hudson Bay. The town is the Polar Bear Capital of the World (sightings are year round), Beluga Whale Capital of the World (sightings from late June to late August), and one of the best places to catch a glimpse of an Aurora Borealis or Northern-Lights (sightings from late November through to late March). No-one ever forgets a visit to Churchill. It's the best place to connect to the many wonders of mother nature.

Aurora Borealis, Churchill, Manitoba

6. Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is a great place to see and do anything and everything. You can enjoy the city's night life, ski at Whistler and go whale-watching along the coast. Camping, hiking, and boating are also just a few of the things you can do when in town. If you love the outdoors and want to see some real wildlife, Vancouver should be on your itinerary.

5. Niagara Falls, Ontario

It's one of those unfortunate 'luck of the draw' things I'm afraid to say, because the majority of the Falls are technically in the United States. This would be fine except that to see it, you have to be on the Canadian side. That's why Niagara Falls lands on Canada's Top-Ten list. To get to the other side there is a pedestrian bridge that links Canada with the United States without the inconvenience of border patrols, yeah!

This tourist town is great for sightseeing and if you happen to be in Toronto, Niagara Falls is not far. Niagara Falls is also a popular place to get married, competing with Las Vegas for favourite wedding destinations. Niagara Falls was also rated as the World's Most Romantic Place.

4. Quebec City, Quebec

Visiting Quebec City is like taking a tour of France in North America. Quebec culture is rich and unique from the rest of Canada, and no-where is it as evident as it is in Quebec City. The world famous Chateaux Frontenac overlooks the St. Lawrence River on a cliff that was once a French Fort. The Old-City is contained in an stone wall that once protected the city from the British Navy. The City Fortress makes Quebec City one of the last walled cities in the world.

3. Montreal, Quebec

Montreal is perhaps my all-time favourite place to just walk around by myself. No other city will allow you to be on a hill overlooking the city from above; shop at fancy French boutiques; dine at some of the best restaurants in the world; see old historic buildings and modern skyscrapers; enjoy a vibrant nightlife; and watch the sun rise and set at the port - all within walking distance. You will feel as if you have walked into a different dimension. Being the world's second largest French speaking city (second only to Paris) some would compare it to France. I on the other hand believe that Montreal is in a league of its own.

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2. Banff, Alberta

Banff is great but a little over-crowded at times. Best to take in the nature experience during the off seasons. But it doesn't matter what time of year it is, there is always stuff to see and do in Banff. Having been to Banff many times, I have never gone and not seen either a bear, elk, deer or mountain goat. With the guaranteed wildlife sightings, you will always enjoy your stay at the Banff Springs Hotel. Be sure to take advantage of their outdoor hot-springs while you are there. Reservations at the hotel are made months in advance but don't fret because there are many other hotels in the area.

top_ten_places_to_visit_in_canada — By Sesivany from cs, CC BY-SA 3.0,

1. Lake Louise, Alberta

The picture says it all. Deep in the Canadian Rockies a large turquoise lake trickles from the thousands year old glacier in the distance. The Fairmont Hotel is world class and books visitors months in advance. But don't let this deter you from visiting, there are many camp-grounds that make visiting fun and affordable.

Comments

CoreyLe on August 15, 2017:

Whoever listed Montreal, Quebec is a place to visit must not be on the same PLANET and DumbFuckkk! First time visited probably personal issues, but second time around and I have to say, What a Dumb Fuck degenerated left over french culture dumps, acting stupid and serious all the time, for what? you stupid! you aren't going anywhere. Driving and parking is like idiot, airhead and inconsiderate, I thought NewYoker and Bostonian is worst drivers always in a hurry because of the traffic, but here, what Fxxk do they do? When all the business opened at 11am and closed early. Speed limited only apply for tourist and they can only park, but forgot about how to get the car out of the lot. All the restaurant, food, utensils is dirty and the service so fucking rude, all the hotels is a run down, nasty, disgusting, like a whore house and expensive. But, nothing top it all when all the French Ahole and BitchesHo broke ass, gave my kids the dirty racist look, that's draws the line! If I saw Quebec License Plate anywhere in East Coast, I will return the favor! Wat out MOFO!!!

Terry Lane from Sudbury Ontario on March 23, 2017:

Niagara Falls shouldn't be on the list as it has lost all of its charm by being over commercialized. Newfoundland has a ton of sites that puts its to shame. In terms of cities it is difficult to beat Victoria on Vancouver Island th0ugh St. Johns comes close

Sandy on January 06, 2017:

Have you not heard of Cape Breton Island?

Shelley on December 19, 2015:

The most beautiful places in Canada are on the East Coast. You're really missing out by not including anything from Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, or New Brunswick on your list.

michelle on March 22, 2014:

I love it thanks for the information~^^

Seth Kidd on March 20, 2014:

I live in canada and I know all these places are gorgeous and I am doing a project right now and I can't seem to find a lace that describes what I am looking for... So please if you don't mind help?

Joseph Kaiser from Daytona Beach, Florida on February 01, 2014:

Friends of my grandparents were world traveler, they had been to thousands of places and of all the places they have been, they said lake Louise was the best of all!

https://hubpages.com/relationships/Where-Should-Th...

Hugo from Swe on January 23, 2014:

hello this was awesome can i muse this at a speech? eh...

JPSO138 from Cebu, Philippines, International on November 23, 2013:

I have never been to Canada. At least from this hub I can see a glimpse of how beautiful the country is. The pictures surely looks inviting. Up for this hub.

sonia sharma on November 12, 2013:

i like cn tower in canada

mnporras on September 28, 2013:

Now that I'm leaving to Canada for five weeks Iam very excited about visiting a few of the 10 top places of your list. Thanks a lot!

cris on September 16, 2013:

I went to prince Edwards island.... it was actually pretty nice there but really cold. not as warm as they say. there's nothing really in Canada that is really exiting.... if I were you I would go to Colorado... a lot warmer and a hell lot more places to visit and sight see.

Sharon on September 10, 2013:

There are so many places to travel in Canada, that it's hard to imagine,

Some of the places I have been to and recommended by me you will find at: www.allfamilytravels.com

Elizabeth Parker from Las Vegas, NV on July 09, 2013:

This is a great little guide for Canada. I definitely want to visit Churchill and Alberta. I've been to Ontario a few times and it is beautiful. Will bookmark this for future use!

Sharon on June 19, 2013:

I love Alberta, the most amazing place in the world

www.allfamilytravels.com

Dhairap on June 16, 2013:

Thanks for visiting Canada this summer

Tours in Sedona on May 24, 2013:

Out of 10 I have just visit 8 places very soon i m going to visit last two place also but after my marriage..

Great article you have been shared

http://www.eveningskytours.com

Jyle Dupuis (author) from Henrico, Virginia on May 22, 2013:

Amen is correct. What places have you seen already and where do you want to visit next?

Kathleen Cochran from Atlanta, Georgia on May 20, 2013:

I can honestly say "Amen" to some of these, and the rest are going on my Wish List. I enjoyed the visit immensely. How do you spell that word anyway?

sexy ;) on May 20, 2013:

lolllll wateverrrr cuhh c'x

Jyle Dupuis (author) from Henrico, Virginia on May 09, 2013:

I think you spelled Montreal wrong... In Canada we write in British English. Since this is an article about Canada and I am Canadian, it only makes sense to spell it F.A.V.O.U.R.I.T.E.

sexy ;) on May 07, 2013:

u spelled favorite wrong in 'montreol' section btw

justin reed on May 01, 2013:

hi how are you doing :)

1234er on April 16, 2013:

i would love to go there but i don't have enoth money

kanishka on April 14, 2013:

YOUR ASOME !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Dido on March 20, 2013:

I would love to go to Niagara Falls and Lake Louis. I've visited Edmonton before and it was a pretty beautiful place. Edmonton should be # 5. I wish I could live in Edmonton.

imelda on March 19, 2013:

The best country in the world is Canada.

kiara on March 14, 2013:

NiagraFalls

chris on January 16, 2013:

thanks this helped me with a school project i would love to go to a bunch of these places now

Jyle Dupuis (author) from Henrico, Virginia on January 13, 2013:

My wife and I always prefer to stay in Canmore over Banff. Best restaurants, affordable Bed & Breakfast's, and stunning views. However, I will defend my choice of Banff. The Hot Springs, view, wildlife, National Park and hotel makes Banff an easy pick above the rest.

Kirsty MacDonald on January 13, 2013:

Canmore, AB should make the list. It has mountains virtually surrounding the town and makes Banff seem commercial. Canmore has exquisite hospitality and excellent food to boot. Spend the day to hike China Man's Peak, then return to town for a fabulous dinner, with great wine, at CrazyWeed Kitchen. Reservations would be beneficial as they seem to be a hot seat!

Narad Pokhrel on January 13, 2013:

I love canada and i like to live in canada,I like beauty of canada

oh canada

our home and native land...........

milan on December 08, 2012:

i want to be go there

NANDANA KUMARA KODISINGHE on December 04, 2012:

I LOVE TO WORK AND LIVE AT LEAST TWO YEARS IN CANADA

Jyle Dupuis (author) from Henrico, Virginia on November 30, 2012:

How are your winter driving skills? No, the roads should be good and clear unless they get some freaky snow storm which does happen. The distance between the cities isn't too bad and the road are well maintained. Sounds like a fun trip. I'd say go for it!

GMB on November 30, 2012:

Hey,

Very good hub! Thanks for sharing such useful information.

We will be in Ottawa in Dec 1st week, do you think it would be nice & feasible to visit Ottawa, Montreal & Quebec in winters that too in 4-5days?

Thanks in anticipation!

COdy simon on November 28, 2012:

i like the cn tower not scarey

sukhman kaur khaira on November 25, 2012:

very nice places given.

Justin Videry on November 18, 2012:

i say that Canada is a good place for sightseeing

anmous on November 13, 2012:

thank it helped for hw

~Sambro~ on October 23, 2012:

Guys am plannin to visit canada for the first time.. i want to go to a place wre its country side with beautiful scene kind of thing.. and cheap place to stay and as well go sky high if you noe wat i mean.. Any advice?

toqeer on October 21, 2012:

i want to come but i m poor.Toqeer_h@yahoo.com

DEEPU on September 27, 2012:

ITS GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR8

shumi on September 12, 2012:

i love this country.....i want to visit but i have not afford

???????? on August 21, 2012:

i love this website i gave me all the information that i needed

arunacharya on August 21, 2012:

Information is knowledgeable and useful for new comer.

your name on August 19, 2012:

I AM A NIGERIAN, I HAVE BEEN PLANING TO WRITE A BOOK ON THIS TOPIC "" CANADA IS A WORLD PARADISE ON EARTH'" BUT I HAVE NEVER BEEN TO CANADA. I FOUND ALL THESE INFORMATION VERY USEFUL. I WANT TO VISIT CANADA THIS TIME . PLEASE WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO SECURE THE VISA AS A TOURIST. PLEASE WHAT ARE THE PLACES I CAN VISIT WITHIN ONE WEEK FOR THE TOUR

francis5k from New York, New York on August 16, 2012:

interesting dude! excellent work!!

Littlefoot on July 10, 2012:

Been to 8 on the list. (not Churchill or PEI)

Very interesting comments on here. Totally agree with leaving Toronto off the list.

I would make a couple of changes. Combine Banff and Lake Louise (only 45 min drive from one to one). Bump Quebec City to #2 and put some part of Vancouver Island at #3.

I would also not recommend Ottawa. Other than museums, it's quite blasé. That leaves one spot empty. Possibly Jasper?

PROF.AHMAD SHAHZAD on July 05, 2012:

words can not express my feelings abt canada my love is canada

AKINSORE on July 05, 2012:

mary on June 29, 2012:

I love canada!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:-) :-*B-)

mts1098 on June 28, 2012:

absolutely stunning pictures...a great country...cheers and thanks

manisha on June 27, 2012:

Is canada a good place where i can do aluminium business?

israr ali on June 21, 2012:

i like canada and also most beautifull top ten places

Jyle Dupuis (author) from Henrico, Virginia on June 11, 2012:

Leaving out Toronto was deliberate. It seems that only people who are from Toronto think it's great. Those are the same people who have never left Ontario. I suggest getting out of the city and seeing all that Canada has to offer, then decide.

jim on June 09, 2012:

u must be nuts! u forgot about Toronto totally

lmao on June 04, 2012:

Most of Niagara Falls is not on the american side, look at google maps, canad owns the whole horseshoe falls right up to the edge where the land stars!

Brit on May 25, 2012:

Good list, except you forgot PV RANCH GETAWAY in Grand Forks, BC. :P Its an awesome place to go vacationing! Is fairly new, but the cottages are amazing and they're right on the river. You can go and trail ride, or do cool farm stuff. You're surrounded by mountains. Its awesome! I recommend it!! www.pvranchgetaway.com

jestoni solijon on May 17, 2012:

i like all the top ten beautiful places of the canada i want to go there! ...

33333366666666 on May 15, 2012:

thanks this site rocks

todd on May 15, 2012:

like the info

kevin on May 15, 2012:

thanks for the info

kas 123 on May 07, 2012:

very nice love to see nigara falls

Rhcdudoe on April 29, 2012:

COOL DUDE

Liz on April 25, 2012:

Thanks Jyle for the great advice!!

bray on April 24, 2012:

i will never leave canada!

anitha,india on April 21, 2012:

really more informative.i love canada

Nathaniel on April 19, 2012:

Hey thanks for the ideas!

Jyle Dupuis (author) from Henrico, Virginia on April 09, 2012:

Though it's disputed where Hockey originates the first organized game was played in Montreal. As fans I would definitively check out Montreal & Toronto. I would take in a "Canadians" game in Montreal and stop by the "Hockey Hall of Fame" in Toronto.

Liz on April 08, 2012:

My husband and I would like to take our 5 year old son to see Canada, just not sure where. We are big hockey fans, and would love to take our son to visit the birthplace of Hockey. Any suggestions on what city is good for families? A place with a little hockey history would be great!! Thanks.

ODESANYA LATEEF BABATOLA on April 04, 2012:

I'LL LIKE TO VISIT CANADA WITH MY FAMILY SOON , JUST TO SEE HOW ITS LOOK LIKE

Bhupinder on April 04, 2012:

Ilove your list. I visited waterton park canada 2-3 hours from Calgary. I love that place too.

muhammad bilal on April 01, 2012:

beautiful

Jyle Dupuis (author) from Henrico, Virginia on March 31, 2012:

Quebec City! If you go to Ottawa you will need some kind of transportation to see more than one site. Quebec City on the other hand is much smaller and quaint. Sip coffee in an outdoor cafe or just enjoy the 400 year old architecture.

wheretogo on March 31, 2012:

have 4 day extended weekend in june trying to decide between ottawa and quebec city want to fly in and just enjoy the area no car no schedules just walk around and enjoy and experience which would you recommend over the other. (have done same thing in vancouver , banff , lake louise , and halifax and loved all of them _ lake louise was fav though , and the service at fairmont really can't be beat!

mirandaireneo on March 28, 2012:

one of my dream country....its great angd lovely

joHan on March 28, 2012:

I have traveled Canada from coast to coast...and it's landscapes are indeed as beautiful as its people! Thanks johnny :-) I have done all the great places mentioned on this list- except Churchill, Manitoba, I must admit!. My top 1 is not on this list though: The Magdalan Islands (Ïles-de-la-Madeleine) in Quebec. Going there isn't easy, but leaving them is even harder :-)...

lol on March 26, 2012:

this info is great

johnny on March 24, 2012:

wow the beauty of Canada is unsurpassed by any other country I have visited. As prince of Bojangles, a small country off the coast of South Africa, I am an avid traveler. Among my time traveling, I have meet many people. But, the people of Canada are like none other. I wish the pride they have for their country could be transmitted to my own country. It is only Canada, where one can walk down the street and not have to worry about "gangsters", "pimps" or "Rednecks". If I had it my way, every day would be Canada Day.

respectfully yours,

Prince Johnsouki of Bojangles

louromano on March 19, 2012:

The place is such a beauty. Can't wait to get there soon.

Karan on March 15, 2012:

Vancouver is one of the best cities in the world and surrey beside it is also beautiful as much as vancouver

miriam ngugi on March 08, 2012:

My greatest wish is to visit Canada i like Kelowna. wow i love nature

Jyle Dupuis (author) from Henrico, Virginia on March 07, 2012:

In my opinion Toronto tries too hard to be an international mega-city. They have lost their Canadian identity. I know some people will argue with me but I just feel no charm when I go there to visit.

dangles mcgee on March 07, 2012:

How come Toronto, Ontario wasn't in there

JK on March 06, 2012:

Been to Quebec several times and have never experienced rude or angry people due to the fact that I can't speak French or are too embarrassed to try! Find that they try a lot harder to speak English than the other way around - even outside of cities. Please don't let those kinds of worries deter you in any way from visiting. Only people who believe that are those that are determined to believe it. Quebec is incredible (old Montreal and Quebec City are like being in Europe). Eastern Townships are beautiful (Bromont WOW!). And no matter where you are in Quebec the food is fantastic.

karina on March 06, 2012:

I like a lot cannada!!!!!

deadpool on March 05, 2012:

wow never knew canada was that beautiful

it also helps me on my projectt

roopani narain dass on March 04, 2012:

evry place is beautiful.

Carley on March 02, 2012:

Been to banff and lake Louise and loved it!! I suggest staying on the gold floor at the fairmont hotel: banff springs and the chateau at lake louise!!!! its awsssommme!!! go and see the hot springs, take lots of picturess!!! explore and get lost... hike through the mountain and across frozen lakes, cross fresh animal tracks here and there and spend timee just enjoying the peace and tranquility of nature.... :)

Karina on March 02, 2012:

I like a lot the pictures

rhen on March 01, 2012:

my dream is to be there at Canada if i have a money

JUAN on March 01, 2012:

CANADA IS SWEETTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT

Brendan on March 01, 2012:

I agree

Jyle Dupuis (author) from Henrico, Virginia on February 29, 2012:

What people don't realize is that French people (Quebec & France) don't hate tourists. They hate that tourists demand that they speak to them in English. Try your best to speak French and you will be treated very different.

benjamin on February 29, 2012:

ridiculous joints to hang out

kanwal khan on February 27, 2012:

very, very, very,

veryyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy................................................... beautiful places.