In this article, we explore some of the best places to visit in Canada, some famous landmarks of Canada, the capital city of Canada Ottawa as well as a selection of the best cities to visit in Canada amongst a variety of other interesting Canada destinations you shouldn’t overlook!
Canada, the second-largest country in the world by land area, is a medley of captivating cities, stunning landscapes, and a rich tapestry of cultures. If you’re debating whether a working holiday here is for you, these ten places prove why such an adventure could be your best decision yet. So, let’s explore the best places to visit in Canada to help you make the most of your time there!
Located in British Columbia, on Canada’s west coast, Vancouver shines as one of the best places to visit in Canada. This Pacific gem is one of the best cities to visit in Canada, boasting a beguiling fusion of urban luxury and untamed wilderness. Downtown Vancouver is a bustling hub, with the scenic Stanley Park at its heart. The park spans over 400 hectares, offering serene trails for biking or walking, a mini train ride, and the Vancouver Aquarium.
Besides its urban allure, Vancouver is renowned for its accessibility to nature. Within a short drive, you can find yourself skiing in the mountains, sailing across the ocean, or hiking through lush forests. Whistler, a world-renowned ski resort, is a mere two-hour drive away, and the spectacular Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is just a 20-minute drive from the city center. Indeed, as one of the top Canada holiday destinations, Vancouver has something for every explorer.
Located in the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is the epitome of Canada’s spectacular natural beauty and stands tall among the top Canada destinations. This park offers a thrilling array of outdoor activities amid turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and sprawling ice fields.
The park’s crown jewels are Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, two glacier-fed bodies of water that glow an ethereal turquoise blue. A scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway, considered one of the world’s most spectacular routes, will take you through jaw-dropping vistas of towering mountains, expansive glaciers, and cascading waterfalls. Banff National Park’s unparalleled allure makes it an essential stop on any Canada holiday destinations list.
A vibrant kaleidoscope of cultures along the sparkling shores of Lake Ontario, Toronto stands tall as one of the best cities to visit in Canada. It’s a melting pot of cultures with over 200 ethnic groups represented, making it one of the most diverse cities globally.
The city is home to one of the most famous landmarks in Canada, the CN Tower, offering stunning views of the city from its observation decks. For art lovers, the Art Gallery of Ontario houses an impressive collection, while the Royal Ontario Museum offers a fascinating look at natural history and world cultures. The Toronto Islands, a group of 15 small islands located just off the city’s coast, provide a peaceful escape from the urban hustle, with plenty of outdoor activities and stunning skyline views.
Occupying a proud place as the capital city of Canada, Ottawa is a treasure trove of history, rich traditions, and vibrant culture. It stands as one of the best cities to visit in Canada, drawing visitors with its harmonious blend of old-world charm and contemporary grandeur. The cityscape is dominated by the awe-inspiring Gothic Revival style of the Parliament Hill buildings, undoubtedly one of the most famous landmarks in Canada.
The Rideau Canal is another must-visit location. In winter, the canal transforms into the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink. Ottawa also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the world’s largest tulip festival, the Canadian Tulip Festival. As one of the best places to visit in Canada, Ottawa’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes the capital city of Canada promise an enriching experience.
Québec City, among the oldest and best cities to visit in Canada, offers a journey back in time with its well-preserved historic architecture and cobblestone streets. Here, you can marvel at the imposing grandeur of the Château Frontenac, one of the most famous landmarks in Canada, and explore quaint boutiques and charming cafes that dot the area.
The Plains of Abraham, a historic site marking the pivotal battle between the French and British Empires in 1759, offers a fascinating journey through history. The city is also known for its vivacious festivals, including the Québec Winter Carnival, one of the world’s largest winter carnivals.
Get in touch with us if you are interested in exploring Canada with the help of Stepwest. We offer a variety of working holiday programs, giving you the work experience of a lifetime and the ability to travel one of the worlds most amazing countires.
Montreal, the largest city in the province of Quebec, uniquely combines North American charisma and European charm. Its historic district, Old Montreal, offers cobblestone streets lined with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, all crowned by the awe-inspiring Notre-Dame Basilica. Montreal is also renowned for its thriving arts scene, hosting world-class events like the Montreal Jazz Festival and Just for Laughs Comedy Festival, making it one of the must-visit Canada destinations on any travel itinerary.
Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the co-designer of New York’s Central Park, Mont Royal Park offers extensive hiking trails, picnic spots, and a stunning overlook of the city skyline from its summit. Montreal encapsulates the diverse experiences offered by Canada holiday destinations, making it an irresistible stop on your Canadian journey.
If you're planning on visiting Calgary for the stampede you should try and book accommodation as far in advance as possible! The city erupts for this one of a kind celebration.
Calgary, a cosmopolitan Alberta city with numerous skyscrapers, is often recognized as the gateway to the Canadian Rockies. One of the best places to visit in Canada, this bustling city offers a blend of cultural attractions and outdoor adventures. Downtown, you’ll find the Calgary Tower, with its observation deck offering panoramic views of the city and the Rocky Mountains.
Every July, the city hosts the Calgary Stampede, a ten-day event billed as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” featuring rodeos, concerts, and fair attractions. Just outside the city, Canada Olympic Park offers year-round outdoor fun, from mountain biking in summer to skiing and snowboarding in winter.
Next on the list of Canada destinations is Victoria, the capital of British Columbia. Known as “The Garden City,” Victoria offers abundant parkland and green spaces. The Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada, features a stunning collection of gardens that bloom throughout the year.
Victoria’s Inner Harbour is the heart of the city, home to historic buildings such as the Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress Hotel. Take a walk along the harbour, enjoy high tea at the Empress, or visit the nearby Royal BC Museum for a journey through British Columbia’s history.
Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada’s smallest province, offers a rich history, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights. PEI is famous as the setting of L.M. Montgomery’s novel, Anne of Green Gables. Visitors can explore Green Gables Heritage Place, which recreates the world of Anne and offers insights into Montgomery’s life.
PEI is also renowned for its seafood, especially lobster and mussels. Attend a traditional lobster supper or visit during the PEI Fall Flavours Festival, a culinary event that showcases the island’s gastronomic delights.
Mid-November to the beginning of April tend to be the best times of the year to visit Yellowknife for a the best chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
Yellowknife, the capital of Canada’s Northwest Territories, is the perfect destination for those seeking a Canada holiday destination that is both unique and adventurous. It’s best known as one of the world’s best places to view the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. From late fall to early spring, the city’s isolated location and clear skies provide optimal viewing conditions for this stunning natural spectacle.
Yellowknife also offers the chance to experience traditional Indigenous culture. Visit the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre for exhibits on the region’s natural and cultural history, or explore Old Town, with its rustic, colourful houseboats and local artisan shops.
These ten Canada destinations provide a snapshot of the country’s diversity, from vibrant cities and historical sites to stunning natural landscapes, famous landmarks in Canada and unique cultural experiences. As you prepare for your trip, remember to check our handy Canada packing list to ensure you have all the essentials for the journey ahead.
Whether you’re navigating the bustling urban landscape of Toronto, soaking up the European ambiance of Quebec City, or immersing yourself in the vibrant cultural tapestry of Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, your working holiday promises to be a thrilling journey across some of the best places to visit in Canada.
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