Canada

Covering such a large area, no two places in Canada are alike. You’ll find diverse cultures, landscapes, festivals, and some of the world’s friendliest locals. Some of the best places to visit in Canada include:

• Winnipeg – Canada’s centralmost city, Winnipeg is home to world-class museums, pro sports teams, and some of the best winter activities in the country.
• Nova Scotia – Home to gems like Halifax, Cape Breton Island, and Lunenburg, finding fun in this Atlantic province is a breeze.
• Prince Edward Island – An island on Canada’s east coast known for sprawling red and white sand beaches, lighthouses, and its fab culinary scene.
• Manitoba – A prairie province, Manitoba is where fields meet the Canadian Shield. Expect crystal-clear lakes, dozens of festivals, and plenty of adventure activities.
• Vancouver​​​​ – This west coast city is sandwiched between the mountains and the ocean. It has a laid-back feel, perfect for outdoorsy, adventurous types.

👉 Read our full guide to the best places to visit in Canada.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

Being a northern country, summer is naturally the most popular time to visit Canada. But the autumn months of September to November might be our secret pick for the best time to visit Canada. The cool weather is just right, summer crowds have disappeared, prices drop and you get to witness the perfect fall scenery. Additionally, you’ll get to experience different celebrations and festivals that fall during the autumn season.

👉 Read full guide to the best times to visit Canada

⚠️ Safety

Ranking sixth in the Global Peace Index, Canada is a very safe place to visit for travelers. Still, we always recommend checking the latest US State Department travel advisories for your destination.

👉 Tips & Things to Know

• 🚗 – Canada Drives on the Right – As in the USA, Canadians drive on the right hand side of the road and pass on the left.
• 📍 – Pick a Region or Two – Canada is the second largest country in the world, and getting around takes a long time. Unless you have months to spend, pick one or two areas for your trip to Canada.
• 🚌 – Research Transportation – Not every Canadian city has extensive transportation systems, and getting between cities is best done with a car. Research how to get between destinations prior to your arrival.
• 💵 – Expect Sales Tax – Sales tax is often not included in the upfront price of products and services in Canada. Know the specific sales tax rates for the province you’ll be visiting.
• 👂 – Know the Regional Language – While most of Canada is English-speaking, Quebec’s first language is French and New Brunswick is officially bilingual.

👉 See all of our top Canada travel tips.

🧳 What to Pack

• ❄️ – Seasonal Gear – With frigid winters and blazing hot summers, packing seasonally is a must. Research weather and climate for your specific destination beforehand.
• ☀️ – Sunscreen – Regardless of the season, if you’re going to be spending time outdoors in Canada then you need some serious SPF.
• 👞 – Good Shoes – One of the most important travel items, having a sturdy pair of both walking shoes and hiking boots will be a game changer on your trip.
• ☂️ – Travel Umbrella – Weather in Canada can change on a dime and spring, summer, and fall are used to periodic showers. Always have a small umbrella in your daypack for emergencies.

🤓 Facts & Info

• Population (2024) – 41.29 million
• Capital – Ottawa
• Currency – Canadian Dollar ($1 = ~1.38 dollars)
• Language – English
• Plugs – Type A or B, 120V / 60Hz.

💵 Budgeting & Money

Major debit and credit cards are widely accepted in Canada, with Visa and MasterCard being the most popular. ATMs are widely available. 

🦺 Travel Insurance

Even in a country as safe as Canada, you never know what could happen. From trip interruptions to activity-related injuries, being financially prepared with travel insurance is a smart move.

🚘 Road Trips

Unlike elsewhere in North America, Canada doesn’t have an extensive public transportation system. Renting a car and taking a road trip is one of the best ways to see the country.

👉 Check out our list of the best road trips in Canada.