Top 19 Best Places to Visit in Canada for an Unforgettable Trip

18 Jun, 2025

Canada is a destination that offers a diverse range of eye-catching landscapes and vibrant cultural cities, which makes it one of the most stunning destinations for travelers. It tends to provide an unforgettable travel experience. Canada's largest city tends to offer a diverse culinary scene, museums, and the iconic CN Tower. Canada boasts breathtaking natural wonders like the Rocky Mountains, national parks such as Banff and Jasper, and scenic coastlines. The popular cities in Canada offer unique cultural experiences, diverse dining options, and exciting urban adventures. For adventurous travel, Canada is also a perfect place for Outdoor adventures, from hiking and skiing in the mountains to exploring coastal areas. Canada is an ideal destination for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities. While you are further planning to explore Canada and looking forward to grabbing the information regarding the best places to visit in Canada, you can go through the information mentioned below and further visit the top places for an unforgettable trip.

List of the Top 19 best places in Canada

Canada further boasts a wide array of top destinations, from stunning landscapes to vibrant cities. Suppose you are planning to explore the best of Canada. In that case, you can go through the information about the top 19 places in Canada mentioned below and get updated with the following. There, you can learn more about the top places briefly, and there, you can decide whether to visit the respective areas and grab the details about the location and the highlights of the places.

Toronto, Ontario
Montréal, Quebec
Quebec City, Quebec
Calgary, Alberta
Banff National Park, Alberta
Whistler, British Columbia
Ottawa, Ontario
Victoria, British Columbia
Niagara Falls, Ontario
The Canadian Rockies
Vancouver, British Columbia
Churchill, Manitoba
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Jasper National Park, Alberta
Stanley Park, British Columbia
Prince Edward Island
Yukon
Whistler, BC
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

1. Toronto, Ontario

Toronto is considered a top travel destination in Canada, and it offers a diverse range of major attractions, activities, and experiences. Toronto, Ontario, is mainly known for its multicultural neighborhoods, world-class museums, thriving arts and entertainment scene, and delicious food. Visit the top place and enjoy live music, theatre, and world-class amenities, or explore other beautiful destinations across Ontario for an extended trip.

Location: Southeastern Canada, on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario.
Top Highlights: Toronto, Ontario, offers a diverse range of attractions. The iconic CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, and the Distillery Historic District are the top highlights.

2. Montréal, Quebec

Montréal, Quebec, is a vibrant place that perfectly balances European charm with North American energy, making it one of the world's top destinations. The place is mainly known for its experimental food culture, rich history, and diverse culture. You can visit the destination, witness the iconic landmarks and underground cities, and gain travel experience.

Location: Southwestern Quebec, Canada, on the island of Montreal.
Top Highlights: Montreal boasts a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Top highlights include the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, the historic charm of Old Montreal, the scenic beauty of Mount Royal Park, and the vibrant Montreal Botanical Garden.

3. Quebec City, Quebec

Quebec City, Quebec, is mainly recognized as one of the most different and special North American cities and is considered one of the top destinations in Canada. It is renowned for its rich history, iconic architecture, and vibrant culture, making it an unforgettable destination. While traveling to Canada, you must visit Quebec City and experience the lively atmosphere with the festivals, delicious cuisine, and outdoor activities.

Location: Southeastern Canada on the north shore of the Saint Lawrence River, where the river narrows and meets the mouth of the Saint-Charles River.
Top Highlights: This destination's top highlights include the UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Quebec, the iconic Château Frontenac, the historic Plains of Abraham, and the majestic Montmorency Falls.

Also Check about: top attractions in Quebec City to help plan your visit efficiently.

4. Calgary, Alberta

Calgary, Alberta, is considered a vibrant travel destination. Its perfect blend of urban sophistication and a strong Western heritage makes it a great place to visit. The city is mainly known for its sunny skies, the Rocky Mountains, the annual Calgary Stampede, and the world-famous rodeo and festival. The destination also has a classic food scene that you can enjoy further.

Location: Southern Alberta, Canada, specifically at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers.
Top Highlights: Calgary, Alberta, has many top highlights, including the Calgary Stampede, a world-famous rodeo and festival. Heritage Park Historical Village, a living history museum, and the Calgary Zoo are other popular attractions.

5. Banff National Park, Alberta

Banff National Park, Alberta, is said to be one of the most stunning destinations. It is mainly known for its eye-catching mountain landscapes, dazzling turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife. Thus, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, providing yearly outdoor activities. You can further explore the scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and, most importantly, historical and cultural sites.

Location: the Canadian Rocky Mountains, in the province of Alberta, Canada.
Top Highlights: The Calgary Stampede is the world's most famous festival. Other popular attractions include Heritage Park Historical Village, a living history museum, the Calgary Zoo, and the Calgary Tower.

6. Whistler, British Columbia

Whistler, British Columbia, is a renowned travel destination. It is mainly referred to as the best destination for activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and other water activities. In the summer, you can also head to the mountain for mountain biking and hiking. This place is a pedestrian-friendly village, which is further combined with a vibrant mountain culture and attracts visitors year-round. Whistler also offers art galleries, museums, and opportunities to learn about the local culture.

Location: Southern Pacific Ranges of the Coast Mountains, north of Vancouver and south of Pemberton.
Top Highlights: The world-class Whistler Blackcomb ski resort, the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola with breathtaking views, the vibrant Whistler Village, and the adventurous Whistler Mountain Bike Park are the top highlights of Whistler, British Columbia.

7. Ottawa, Ontario

Ottawa, Ontario, is a vibrant travel destination mainly known for its political significance, cultural attractions, and stunning scenery. You can head to the artificial place, Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, perfect for skating. You must also see Parliament Hill and the iconic Peace Tower. There are more highlights of the place. Below are the following.

Location: Southeastern Ontario, Canada.
Top Highlights: Ottawa's top highlights include Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, the Canadian Museum, the Canadian War Museum, ByWard Market, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, Gatineau Park, and Diefenbunker: Canada's Cold War Museum.

8. Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, British Columbia, is a perfect travel destination, mainly known for its historical charm and natural beauty blend. The city perfectly and effortlessly combines old-world architecture with modern amenities, offering a unique travel experience. You can explore the historical significance and perform waterfront and outdoor activities. The few top highlighted places are as mentioned.

Location: Southern tip of Vancouver Island, off the coast of British Columbia, Canada.
Top Highlights: The top highlights of Victoria, British Columbia, include the Butchart Gardens, the Inner Harbour, the Royal BC Museum, and Craigdarroch Castle.

9. Niagara Falls, Ontario

Niagara Falls, Ontario, is a well-considered travel destination in Canada. It is mainly known for its stunning waterfall and wide range of attractions that you can further witness. The Canadian side offers iconic views of the Horseshoe, American, and Bridal Veil Falls, plus opportunities for boat tours, ziplining, and exploring the Niagara Parks. You can enjoy the best dining, shopping, and more in this vibrant and beautiful city.

Location: Canadian side of the Niagara River, across from Niagara Falls, New York.
Top Highlights: Niagara Falls, Ontario, offers many attractions beyond the falls, including the Skylon Tower, Niagara City Cruises, and Journey Behind the Falls.

10. The Canadian Rockies

The Canadian Rockies are an outstanding mountain range situated in western Canada. They are also renowned for their stunning natural beauty, including vibrant blue lakes, towering peaks, and expansive glaciers. Other activities you can perform include hiking, skiing, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives, making them some of the most popular destinations in Canada.

Location: Western Canada, primarily in the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia, not Ontario.
Top Highlights: Key highlights of the Canadian Rockies include Banff and Jasper National Parks, the Icefields Parkway, and iconic locations like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.

11. Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver, British Columbia, is said to be one of the most stunning destinations. It is also considered a place of pure natural beauty and a vibrant city with many attractions and activities. It is further considered one of the most popular tourist destinations that offers a perfect blend of urban attractions and provides access to stunning wilderness experiences.

Location: Southwestern coast of mainland British Columbia, Canada.
Top Highlights: Vancouver, British Columbia, has top highlights such as Stanley Park, its iconic seawall and totem poles, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, and Granville Island, with its bustling public market.

12. Churchill, Manitoba

Churchill, Manitoba, is one of the most unique travel destinations. It is mainly famous for its incredible wildlife viewing opportunities and stunning landscapes. Churchill is a prime location to see polar bears, particularly in the fall when they gather near the coast awaiting the freezing of Hudson Bay. The place is also considered the world's polar bear capital, as it is home to polar bears.

Location: Northern Manitoba, Canada, on the southwestern shore of Hudson Bay.
Top Highlights: The polar bear is the main attraction of the destination; other historical and cultural attractions include the Prince of Wales Fort National Historic Site, Cape Merry, Miss Piggy Plane, Churchill Northern Studies Centre, and Wapusk National Park.

13. Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, is a well-preserved and old town and a part of the UNESCO World Heritage sites. The destination is a historic and vintage town mainly referred to for its preserved colonial architecture and vibrant waterfront. It is one of the most famous travel destinations that further grants a unique blend of history and maritime culture, along with charming scenery and stunning views. Below are the location and the top highlights of the destination.

Location: South Shore of Nova Scotia, Canada, specifically on Lunenburg Bay, an inlet of the Atlantic Ocean.
Top Highlights: Highlights of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, include the colorful historic buildings, the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, and opportunities for sailing and harbor tours on the Bluenose.

14. Jasper National Park, Alberta

While exploring Canada, you must plan your visit to Jasper National Park, Alberta, the premier travel destination famous for its natural beauty and diverse activities. It's the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies and is also considered the second-largest Dark Sky Preserve in the world. Visitors can enjoy various activities, such as hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, camping, and more.

Location: Western Alberta, Canada, specifically within the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
Top Highlights: Jasper National Park's highlights include the Icefields Parkway, Athabasca Falls, Maligne Canyon, and Maligne Lake, Dark Sky Preserve.

15. Stanley Park, British Columbia

Stanley Park, British Columbia, is a place that is known for offering visitors diverse attractions and activities. The place is mainly known for its natural beauty, which includes a rainforest, beaches, and waterfront views. The park also features cultural and historical landmarks, family-friendly attractions, and dining options. To learn the location and the main highlight of the place, look below.

Location: Downtown Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Top Highlights: Stanley Park, Vancouver's top highlights include the Seawall, the Vancouver Aquarium, Brockton Point's totem poles, and the variety of natural landscapes.

16. Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island (PEI) is a popular Canadian travel destination. It is immensely famous for its stunning beaches, delicious seafood, and picturesque coastal drives. The island is a foodie paradise, particularly for seafood lovers, with readily available fresh lobster, mussels, and oysters. Visit Prince Edward Island and have a relaxing time.

Location: Gulf of St. Lawrence, off the east coast of Canada.
Top Highlights: Prince Edward Island's highlights include the Confederation Bridge, Green Gables, Charlottetown, and Coastal Drives.

17. Yukon

Yukon is a unique name and a popular travel destination. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and abundant wildlife. On scenic road trips, you can perform multiple outdoor activities, including hiking, canoeing, dog sledding, snowmobiling, and exploring. The places offer you major and popular attractions. Visit Yukon when you are in Canada and get a different vibe of the place.

Location: Northwestern Canada.
Top Highlights: The top highlights of Yukon include vast wilderness areas, like Kluane National Park and Tombstone Territorial Park, and iconic road trips, like the Dempster Highway.

18. Whistler, BC

Whistler, BC, which stands for British Columbia, is a renowned travel destination mostly known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding in the winter and its vibrant mountain biking and kicking scene in the summer. Whistler Blackcomb is one of the largest ski resorts in North America, boasting extensive terrain and a long ski season. n. Whether you're an avid skier, a mountain biker, or simply seeking a scenic escape, Whistler has everything to offer for an adventurous traveler. To learn more about the top highlights of the place, look at the details mentioned.

Location: Southern Pacific Ranges of the Coast Mountains,
Top Highlights: Top highlights include the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, offering breathtaking views and access to hiking trails, and Whistler Blackcomb, a world-class ski resort.

19. Yellowknife, Northwest Territories

Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, is a unique and compelling travel destination for those interested in experiencing the northern lights, midnight sun, and rugged beauty of the Canadian wilderness. The destination offers a blend of urban amenities, making it suitable for both city explorers and outdoor adventurers. Therefore, it provides a mix of city amenities with access to incredible northern wilderness experiences, making it ideal for adventure seekers and those interested in unique cultural experiences.

Location: The northern shore of Great Slave Lake.
Top Highlights: The Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre, the Bush Pilot's Monument, and the vibrant Old Town are among the top highlights. You can also enjoy aurora viewing, experience the vastness of Great Slave Lake, and explore various trails and parks like Frame Lake Trail and Cameron Falls Trail.

Travel Tips for Exploring Canada

After reviewing the information mentioned below, you should be updated on the places to visit in Canada and their top highlights. Thus, while traveling to Canada, you must ensure that you are prepared for diverse weather conditions and consider travel insurance. Below are a few travel tips for exploring Canada.