Canada offers a diverse range of experiences, from vibrant cities to serene natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment.
For those looking to explore Canada, consider iconic destinations such as Banff National Park, Montreal's cultural vibrancy, a seafood tour around Nova Scotia or a scenic train journey across the country.
It is wonderful to feel the grandness of Canada in the raw.
Emily Carr
🗻 Iconic Destinations Across Canada
The Canadian Rockies and Banff National Park
One of the most impressive mountain ranges in the world, not only for its expanse across two provinces (Alberta and British Columbia), but also for the variety of landscapes it offers, is the Canadian Rockies. Nearly 150 years ago, national parks were established here to allow for all kinds of activities beyond classic winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, including:
🚵🏻♀️ Mountain biking
🗻Climbing and hiking
🚣🏻♂️ Canoeing
🎣 Sport fishing
💧 Enjoying hot springs
⛷️ Skiing
🏂 Snowboarding
🦌 Wildlife viewing
One of the first parks to be established was Banff National Park in 1885. It was one of the first in the world, and its creation stemmed from railway workers' discovery of hot springs, which spurred tourism in the area. This led to the creation of the park and hotels like the now-iconic Chateau Lake Louise, built in 1890 beside one of the most breathtaking lakes in the world.
The quintessential Canadian vacation postcard featuring a beautiful turquoise lake in the background (a result of rock flour; tiny particles of glacial rock) was likely taken at Lake Louise, a must-see in Banff. In summer, you can enjoy canoeing and kayaking, while in winter, it transforms into a natural ice-skating rink.
This lake is also a must-visit for photography enthusiasts and hikers (it's the starting point for trails to Lake Agnes, the Plain of Six Glaciers, and alpine viewpoints).
Banff National Park is also well known for activities that offer glimpses of the area's beautiful wildlife. If your vacation includes plans to take a horseback riding tour, or if in winter you want to see winter wildlife up close, from moose, bears, fish, birds, or marmots, this is the park you should choose, as you will find various tours that will respectfully and safely bring you closer to the most fascinating fauna.
Since 1984, not only has Banff National Park been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but Jasper, Yoho, Kootenay, and provincial parks like Mount Robson, Assiniboine, and Hamber are also part of that heritage thanks to their ecological, tourist, and scientific value.
🌇 Vibrant Cities: Montreal and Vancouver
Vacations in Canada aren't just about enjoying its natural areas, but also its history, rich cultural offerings, and ever-expanding culinary scene.
The place to take a vacation that allows you to experience a little bit of everything is definitely Montreal.
Its European-influenced architecture (with gems like the Moulin Fleming from 1827), the old cobblestone streets, and its current street art exhibition alongside the most modern buildings (for example, the Planetarium) are all part of its charm.
Still, it's definitely the wide variety of activities that truly makes Montreal appealing. What you can do while vacationing in Montreal:
If cities like New York or Chicago appeal to you, you can find similar experiences in Montreal and enjoy a vacation where your desire for cultural experiences and outdoor activities is easily met.
Before the French, English, or Scottish settlements, and long before it was named Montreal, this island was inhabited by the Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk). The meeting of cultures and diversity is what makes Montreal a unique vacation city.
Vancouver: Coastal city offering urban experiences alongside natural beauty
One of Canada's main gateways to the Pacific, Vancouver is a city that captivates visitors with its natural scenery and cosmopolitan character.
People have been vacationing in Vancouver since the early 20th century, drawn by its forests and mountains.
Still, today it has become a top destination for those seeking a vacation that combines the charm of a significant city with the allure of mountains and beaches.
Urban walking, biking, and wildlife viewing are all possible in Vancouver, while also admiring its more than 2,000 historic buildings and local landmarks, and enjoying a vibrant arts, culinary, and cultural scene on Granville Island.
And let's not forget that Vancouver is the ideal vacation spot for all ages, with attractions for children like the Vancouver Aquarium and Science World, as well as countless activities in Stanley Park.
Unique Experiences: The Canadian Sleeper Train
If your dream vacation in Canada includes spectacular views of the vast mountains, diverse wildlife (moose and deer are familiar sights), enormous lakes, and breathtaking sunsets, it's time to book a ticket on The Canadian.
Aboard one of North America's most spectacular routes, you can travel from Toronto to Vancouver along this historic railway, open since 1977. Among the sights and locations you can enjoy aboard The Canadian are:
- 🌳 Ontario's Canadian Shield (forests and lakes)
- 🪨 The Canadian Rockies
- 🏙️ Winnipeg
- 🌇 Edmonton
- 🗻 Jasper
The Canadian Sleeper Train, with journey times ranging from 93 to 97 hours, offers a sleeper service divided into different classes:
| Classes | Main services |
|---|---|
| Economy Class | Features comfortable reclining seats with ample legroom. Passengers may bring their own food and drinks, and meals can also be purchased onboard. Ideal for budget-conscious travellers who do not require a private sleeping space. |
| Sleeper Plus Class | Offers private sleeping accommodations with beds that convert from daytime seating. Includes access to priority shower facilities and all meals in the dining car, with menus highlighting regional and local Canadian cuisine. |
| Prestige Class | Provides the most spacious private cabins onboard, larger than Sleeper Plus. Cabins include a private bathroom with a shower, personalized table service, and a refined multi-course dining experience with premium menu options. |
🍁 Staycation Ideas in Canada
Exploring Local Attractions
One of the significant advantages of living in Canada is the possibility of a staycation, taking advantage of the fact that you're already in a country with more than 30 national parks. What better way to plan a trip than to visit as many as possible?
In fact, your staycation in Canada can be an all-in-one trip that combines nature with the best of culture and history, thanks to the Canada Strong Pass.
This pass allows both Canadians and tourists to enjoy free admission to national parks, museums, and marine conservation areas during specific periods of the year.
The Canada Strong Pass is an excellent option for winter and summer vacations. On official websites, you can find the exact validity dates of the pass for each season, as well as see which parks include any additional fees for camping, tours, or other special services you might want to add. With the Canada Strong Pass, you have access to all of these sites:
| What the Pass Gives Access To | Winter | Summer |
|---|---|---|
| Free entry to National Parks | Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Point Pelee National Park, La Mauricie National Park, Fundy National Park | Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, Jasper National Park, Prince Edward Island National Park, Gros Morne National Park |
| Free entry to National Historic Sites | Cave and Basin National Historic Site, Fort Henry National Historic Site, Fortress of Louisbourg, Rideau Canal National Historic Site, Lower Fort Garry. | L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site, Fort George National Historic Site, Batoche National Historic Site, Signal Hill National Historic Site, Halifax Citadel National Historic Site |
| Free entry to National Museums | Canadian Museum of History, Canadian War Museum, National Gallery of Canada, Canada Aviation and Space Museum, Canadian Museum of Nature | Canadian Museum of History, National Gallery of Canada, Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, Canada Science and Technology Museum, Canadian Museum for Human Rights |
| Free access to National Marine Conservation Areas | Fathom Five National Marine Park, Saguenay St. Lawrence Marine Park, Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area, Gwaii Haanas Marine Area,Tallurutiup Imanga Marine Area | Fathom Five National Marine Park, Saguenay - St. Lawrence Marine Park, Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area, Gwaii Haanas Marine Area, Tallurutiup Imanga Marine Area |
Within Fathom Five, one of the world's most stunning marine parks, you'll find an island over 1,500 years old, home to distinctive rock pillars and a collection of plants that draws hundreds of tourists each year. In the summer time, you can take a small cruise for a tour around the island, go hiking, swim, and snorkel.
Christmas Staycation Ideas
One of the most special ways to experience winter in Canada is by attending winter festivals and holiday markets. Community life is a constant in Canada, and during winter break, you'll find that public spaces are home to art, culture, and food festivals, where you can not only find crafts or enjoy food trucks, but also directly support small businesses and a multicultural tradition with decades of history.
| Market or Festival Name | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto Christmas Market (Distillery Winter Village) | Toronto, Ontario | Historic Distillery District filled with holiday lights, artisan stalls, festive food, live music, and a large Christmas tree. |
| Québec City German Christmas Market (Marché de Noël Allemand) | Québec City, Québec | European-style wooden kiosks, German treats, mulled wine, handmade gifts, and traditional holiday music in Old Québec. |
| Vancouver Christmas Market | Vancouver, British Columbia | German-inspired market with alpine food, holiday décor, craft vendors, and festive light displays by the waterfront. |
| Christkindl Market | Kitchener, Ontario | Traditional Bavarian-style market celebrating the region’s German heritage with crafts, food, music, and family activities. |
| Banff Christmas Market | Banff, Alberta | Mountain-themed holiday market featuring local artisans, festive food, fire pits, and views of the Canadian Rockies. |
| Winnipeg Downtown BIZ Winter Market | Winnipeg, Manitoba | Local vendors, winter treats, warming stations, and live entertainment in the heart of downtown during the cold season. |
| Ottawa Christmas Market | Ottawa, Ontario | Holiday stalls near Parliament featuring Canadian artisans, festive food, lights, and seasonal performances. |
| Festival du Voyageur | Winnipeg, Manitoba | Western Canada’s largest winter festival celebrating Francophone and Métis culture with music, snow sculptures, and traditional food. |
| Carnaval de Québec | Québec City, Québec | One of the world’s largest winter festivals with parades, ice palaces, snow slides, outdoor shows, and the iconic Bonhomme mascot. |
| Winterlude | Ottawa–Gatineau, Ontario/Québec | National winter celebration with ice sculptures, skating (Rideau Canal when open), snow playgrounds, and family activities. |
🇨🇦 Planning Your Canadian Vacation
Best Times to Visit
For many, a Canadian summer vacation includes visiting national parks, but for many others, it's the ideal time to attend community festivals and celebrate the identity and heritage of the Canadian people. Among the long list of events that Canada celebrates in the summer, the main ones are:
- 🇨🇦 Canada Day (July 21)
- 🌞 Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day (June 24)
- 🌳 National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21)
- 👬 Canadian Multiculturalism Day (June 27)
Depending on the province, if you're on vacation, you'll find that it's a day to enjoy huge outdoor celebrations, including concerts, fireworks, art exhibits, parades, and all kinds of cultural performances. The Canadian summer offers other options besides visiting national parks for hiking, kayaking, canoeing, camping, or wildlife viewing.
Don't worry, for those who are more into a winter staycation, there are plenty of options aside from trying winter sports. Summer festivals also have their winter counterparts, with events like the Baff Winter Carnival and Jasper in January, two family-friendly events where you can enjoy winter sports and experience Canadian winter traditions amidst the stunning scenery of mountains, lakes, and frozen prairies.
❄️ 🎡 Baff Winter Carnival
For those wanting a taste of winter sports in Canada, this carnival includes activities such as mini curling, skiing, hockey, and swimming in the Cave and Basin hot pool.
⛷️ 🫕 Jasper in January
Landscape photography tours, snowshoe tours, and sleigh rides are available, along with culinary delights such as the Poutine Showdown and après-wine tastings.
And of course, a perfect escapade for a winter staycation in Canada is chasing the northern lights in one of the many places across our territory where you can spot them.
Canada is the perfect place for a December-to-January vacation, given the wide range of activities its climate offers. Not only can you learn to ski, but you can also take a snowshoeing tour, go sleigh riding, participate in a mini hockey or curling tournament, or venture out on your first moonlight hike and enjoy a fondue tour (yes, if you prefer culinary tourism).
According to the government website, Destination Canada, the high season runs from November to April, and in the Northern Territories, you can start seeing some as early as September. In Manitoba, the peak season is between February and March, and in Yukon, you can even see some in mid-August, although its high season is from November to mid-August.
Travel Tips
To truly enjoy your vacation in Canada, whether you're a local planning a staycation or a visitor, you should know that reservations are essential, especially for national parks. Here's a list of recommendations depending on whether you're planning a trip in summer or winter.
Whether you're vacationing in Canada during the winter or summer, it's crucial to review safety protocols for outdoor activities.
Likewise, when it comes to the wildlife you might encounter, remember above all to respect animals and always view them from a distance.
References
- Lake Louise and Moraine Lake (12-06-2025). Available at: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/visit/les10-top10/louise (Accessed: December 2025).
- Banff and Lake Louise Tourism (No date). Available at: https://www.banfflakelouise.com/ (Accessed: December 2025).
- About Montreal - GP Canada. (No date). Available at: https://www.canada.gp/en/about-montreal (Accessed: December 2025).
- Histoire et héritage - Tourisme Montréal (No Date). Available at: https://www.mtl.org/fr/la-ville/propos-de-montreal/histoire-et-heritage (Accessed: December 2025).
- Jasper in January: Events and activities - Tourism Jasper (No Date). Available at: https://www.jasper.travel/january/events/?type=outdoor&type=daytime&type=activities-adventure (Accessed: December 2025).
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