If you’re planning a trip to explore the exhilarating sites of Canada, our Travelex Travel Guide is packed with everything you need to know.
Our top pick is Canada’s first National Park, located in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains. After a quick Google Image search, it won’t be hard for you to see why. With stunning turquoise glacial lakes, picturesque mountain peaks, and local wildlife, Banff should be at the top of every itinerary when visiting Canada.
If skyscrapers and city lights are more your thing, Canada’s largest city is ready for you to explore. With a vibrant cultural scene and iconic landmarks like the CN Tower, you’ll never run out of things to do. Visit one of the many art museums, catch a Toronto Blue Jays baseball game or taste your way through the local cuisine including Toronto’s famous Peameal bacon.
For a taste of French culture, you can’t miss the province of Quebec. Explore neighbourhoods of cobblestone streets, lined by a unique blend of French and British architecture. The capital, Quebec City, is one of the oldest cities in North America full of rich history and culture. Montreal is another major city in Quebec known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse food scene, and cultural festivals. The city is also home to many museums, including the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, the Canadian Centre for Architecture, and the Montreal Science Centre.
Boasting grand Victorian architecture and iconic landmarks and attractions, such as Parliament Hill, the Canadian Museum of History, and the Rideau Canal, the capital city of Canada is not to be overlooked. Offering a world-class culinary scene, and dubbed the capital of Christmas movies, it’s the perfect place to experience everything Canada has to offer.
One of Canada’s densest and most ethnically diverse cities, Vancouver features thriving arts, sports and foodie scenes. Known for its beautiful waterfront, gorgeous beaches, and the incredible backdrop of the North Shore Mountains, Vancouver is a great option if you’re interested in participating in both indoor and outdoor activities.
Straddling the border between Canada’s Ontario province and the US state of New York, the natural beauty of Niagara Falls is sure to take your breath away. The hard part will be picking which way to see the stunning falls. Stroll along the White Water Walk, get up close (and soaked) via boat, take in the sights from above with a helicopter tour or if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also go ziplining or jet-boating.
With over 40 national parks and reserves, there is no shortage of breathtaking hiking trails to explore. From the stunning Rocky Mountains to the rugged coastline of Newfoundland and Labrador, there’s a trail for even the most inexperienced hiker.
Quebec’s distinctive mix of French and English cultures gives you a unique perspective into the rich history of Canada. Immerse yourself in the culture by delighting in some French-Canadian cuisine, music, and art. You may even line up your trip with one of their famous festivals like Quebec City’s Winter Carnival or Montreal’s Jazz Festival.
It will only take you a few hours in Canada to realise the locals view hockey as a way of life. With origins tracing back to 1875, the country’s national pastime sees millions of Canadians participating in the game at all levels. Whether it’s cheering on their favourite team or lacing up their skates to hit the ice themselves, Canadians have a deep passion for hockey. Witness this passion first-hand and join in on the exhilaration of cheering on the local team by catching a hockey game while you’re there.
Maple syrup is part of the country’s fabric, with Canada producing approximately three-quarters of the world’s maple syrup. Made from the sap of maple trees, which occupy 8,681,000 hectares of land across Canada, it is commonly used as a topping for everything from pancakes to fried chicken. You can tour one of the thousands of maple farms across the country or visit on December 17th - National Maple Syrup Day - as Canadians come together to honour the sweet auburn syrup.
For a relaxing and rejuvenating experience like no other, you can’t miss the chance to take a dip in one of Canada’s many hot springs. One of the most popular spots is the Banff Upper Hot Springs in Banff National Park. Unwind in the healing waters and take in your surroundings with stunning mountain views and snow-capped peaks.