Top 43 Must-See Destinations in Canada: Explore Stunning Attractions

Best Places to Visit in Canada

Canada is immense! In fact, it ranks as the second-largest country globally. Therefore, experiencing it all in one visit is impractical. Fortunately, we have traveled extensively and can share these iconic destinations.

If you can’t spend years driving around the country, you will need to decide which coast to explore and the experiences you want to enjoy. We’ve compiled the top tourist attractions, scenic landscapes, and stunning spots in Canada for your journey.

• Check out our Canada Playlist on YouTube for beautiful scenery from our adventures across Canada.

1. Banff National Park & Lake Louise

Banff National Park is a top Canadian destination, offering remarkable sights from Moraine Lake to The Vermillion Lakes and The Three Sisters. It is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring activities such as hiking, mountain biking, backcountry skiing, and horseback riding amidst the stunning Rocky Mountains.

A visit to nearby Yoho National Park is highly recommended for its breathtaking waterfalls and natural landscapes.

Experience breathtaking views of Lake Louise and the Victoria Glacier from the Chateau Fairmont Lake Louise. Embrace the invigorating mountain air while exploring picturesque lakes in Banff National Park, including Moraine Lake, Lake Minnewanka, and Peyto Lakes.

Snowboarding at the prestigious Lake Louise Ski Resort is essential, and don’t miss the chance to ascend the Banff Gondola for stunning panoramas.

2. Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway is renowned as one of the most scenic drives in the world, connecting Banff National Park and Jasper National Park through the majestic Canadian Rockies.

This highway presents various stops, including Athabasca Glacier, Columbia Icefields, and Yoho National Park, showcasing the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Along this picturesque route, witness the reflections of Bow Lake and an abundance of glaciers and waterfalls.

3. Columbia Icefields Skywalk

The Columbia Icefields Skywalk ranks among Alberta’s top attractions, offering a thrilling experience 280 meters (918 feet) above the Sunwapta Valley. Its glass floor provides breathtaking views of surrounding mountains and glaciers, making it a compelling stop along the Icefields Parkway.

4. Alberta Badlands

The Alberta Badlands represent some of North America’s most stunning landscapes. Make Dinosaur Provincial Park your base for camping and witness one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaur fossils. For those searching for remote beauty, Kluane National Park offers pristine waters and diverse flora and fauna.

5. Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is relatively less crowded compared to Banff National Park, yet it is equally magnificent. It is famous for its annual Dark Sky Festival, offering spectacular views of stars and the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Fun fact: Jasper is recognized as one of the best spots for Northern Lights in Canada due to its designation as a dark sky preserve.

If you’re looking for breathtaking views, visit its stunning lakes such as Maligne Lake, Pyramid Lake, or Beauvert Lake. There is also an excellent ski resort, Marmot Basin, ideal for those wishing to take to the slopes.

6. Maligne Lake

No trip to Jasper is complete without witnessing the views of Maligne Lake. This day trip allows visitors to stop at Maligne Canyon and hike along the Maligne River Gorge, a must-see experience in Jasper.

7. Waterton Lakes National Park

At the southern end of Alberta lies Waterton Lakes National Park, which borders Glacier National Park in the USA, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This unique international peace park and biosphere reserve stands out globally.

8. Whistler

Whistler serves as Canada’s ultimate outdoor playground, featuring world-class ski resorts and thrilling activities. It ranks among the top tourist spots in British Columbia. Mountain biking and hiking trails abound during summer, while Whistler Village offers exceptional dining and nightlife options.

Hosting the Winter Olympics, Whistler/Blackcomb is one of Canada’s premier ski resorts with numerous runs to explore.

9. Tofino

Situated on Vancouver Island, Tofino is Canada’s top surfing destination. From October to February, storm watchers flock to witness spectacular winter waves crashing along the Canadian Coast.

10. Okanagan Valley

The Okanagan Valley is British Columbia’s primary wine region, reminiscent of Tuscany. It is an ideal destination for wine tours and tastings.

Establishing a base in either Kelowna, Penticton, or Vernon promises a relaxing vacation amidst picturesque lakes, hills, forests, and surrounding mountain ranges.

11. Victoria

Victoria, located on Vancouver Island, is British Columbia’s capital. The city boasts colonial architecture, beautiful gardens, and a charming waterfront reflecting its English heritage. Not to be missed are the famous Butchart Gardens and strolls through the oldest Chinatown in Canada.

12. Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is a stunning coastal city in British Columbia, often rated highly among the world’s most beautiful cities. Its relaxed West Coast atmosphere allows for outdoor exploration while still enjoying urban comforts.

Stanley Park is an essential destination, just minutes from the city center, featuring a scenic seawall, Vancouver Aquarium, and expansive green spaces. Don’t forget to visit North Vancouver for excellent hiking at Grouse Mountain and skiing in winter, making it one of our favorite cities in Canada.

13. Churchill

Located on the polar bear highway, Churchill is renowned for being one of the best places to spot polar bears in their natural environment, earning its title as the polar bear capital of the world.

The migration of beluga whales is another fascinating event where thousands of these marine mammals grace the bay just off the pier. A unique attraction is the Polar Bear Jail, where bears are held and relocated after wandering into town.

14. Hudson Bay

To observe polar bears up close, consider staying at a lodge on Hudson Bay, placed in the heart of the Canadian tundra. At Churchill Wild, numerous lodges are available in Northern Manitoba, allowing for intimate wildlife viewing.

The surrounding wildlife is incredible, complemented by breathtaking scenery. A polar bear safari is an unforgettable experience for adventure seekers.

15. Canadian Museum of Human Rights

The Canadian Museum of Human Rights in Winnipeg is unlike most museums typically found on iconic lists. However, its architectural beauty and engaging exhibits make it one of the best museums globally, guiding visitors through a journey from roots to light, featuring displays such as the Garden of Contemplation.

16. Lunenburg

Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nova Scotia, stands out for its charming painted houses that epitomize the region’s maritime heritage. With numerous dining options, intriguing museums, and ocean tours, Lunenburg embodies the perfect East Coast vacation destination.

17. Cape Breton

Exploring the Cabot Trail of Cape Breton showcases the rich tapestry of Canadian life. This scenic drive is among the world’s best road trips, providing stunning coastal views, hiking opportunities, whale watching, and trips to charming fishing villages.

18. Peggy’s Cove

Peggy’s Cove is home to one of the world’s most iconic lighthouses, making it Nova Scotia’s most beloved attraction. The site offers numerous activities, including boat tours and hiking, as well as exploring nearby picturesque towns.

19. Three Sisters

In the Bay of Fundy lie some of the world’s highest tides, with three incredible locations to witness this phenomenon: the Shubenacadie River, Burntcoat Head Provincial Park, and the Three Sisters. Here, you can walk on the ocean floor at low tide for miles before kayaking to see awe-inspiring rock formations as the water rises.

20. Bay of Fundy Hopewell Rocks

New Brunswick features classic views of the Bay of Fundy showcasing the Hopewell Rocks’ unique formations, sea caves, and arches. This remarkable site is an excellent place to witness the immense power of the highest tides on Earth.

21. Fundy National Park

Driving through Fundy National Park reveals breathtaking views of the New Brunswick Coast, complete with 25 waterfalls and scenic vistas of the Bay of Fundy. For adventure seekers, the challenging 61km Fundy Trail hike is regarded as one of the greatest multi-day hikes globally.

22. Kouchibouguac National Park

Kouchibouguac National Park is renowned for its dark sky preserve and enchanting boardwalk that traverses its salt marshes. Visitors can explore the river by canoe or head out to the sand dunes.

23. St. Martins

Featuring historic covered bridges and the stunning St. Martins Sea Caves, this must-see spot on the East Coast offers kayaking trips to explore the caves at high tide or walking into the cavernous structures as the tide recedes.

24. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls remains Canada’s most famous tourist attraction, standing as the #1 place to experience Ontario’s natural beauty. Year after year, it enchants visitors with its power and majesty.

From thrilling experiences like Maid of the Mist boat rides and journeys behind the falls to the breathtaking sights from the Aerocar and jetboat tours, countless adventures await in Niagara.

25. CN Tower

The CN Tower once held the title of the world’s tallest structure and remains one of Toronto’s top attractions. Its hair-raising glass floor, rotating restaurant, and adrenaline-pumping EdgeWalk create an unforgettable experience. It’s essential to head up the CN Tower for unparalleled views of the city.

26. Algonquin Park

Ontario boasts numerous provincial parks, yet Algonquin Park stands out as a premier destination for canoeing and wildlife viewing, particularly for spotting moose. The extensive hiking trails and opportunities for snowshoeing make it a favored hotspot.

27. Lake Superior North Shore

Few venture north of Lake Superior, where stunning views await. Discover the Canada Goose in Wawa, canoe or kayak to the slate islands to catch glimpses of the woodland caribou, or tackle the Pukaskwa Trail, known for its challenges.

28. Ottawa

Canada’s capital, Ottawa, is among our favorite destinations. Consider visiting during the annual winter carnival, Winterlude, where ice skating on the Rideau Canal serves as an iconic highlight. Explore the beautiful Parliament buildings and numerous museums throughout the city.

29. Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island holds the title of the world’s largest freshwater island and features stunning landscapes and extensive hiking trails. An unforgettable experience includes hiking to the top of the Cup and Saucer Trail and engaging in the Great Spirit Circle Tour, an enriching Aboriginal experience.

30. Kingston

No visit to Ontario is complete without exploring Kingston, the original capital of Canada. Nestled by the St. Lawrence River, Rideau Canal, and Lake Ontario, Kingston boasts a unique position.

Following our latest visit in 2023, we were pleasantly surprised by Kingston’s charm, featuring a UNESCO World Heritage Site, multiple national historic sites, and an impressive array of dining options. It truly is an Ontario hidden gem.

31. Confederation Bridge

The Confederation Bridge connects Prince Edward Island to the mainland, as the longest bridge in the world at 12.9 km. This thrilling journey opened in 1994.

32. Charlottetown

The charming capital of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, hosts the celebrated Charlottetown Festival centered around Anne of Green Gables. However, this quaint town offers so much more with its farm-to-table dining, boutique accommodations, arts scene, and stunning harbour views, making it a must-visit destination.

33. Quebec City

Quebec City represents North America’s best European experience. This city radiates old-world charm, and nowhere is it more evident than in Old Quebec, highlighted by the stunning Chateau Frontenac. The historic district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts numerous attractions and monuments.

34. Wendake

Wendake, a First Nation Settlement, is just 15 minutes from Quebec’s Old Town. Established over 300 years ago, this community, once known by the moniker Huron, can provide visitors with a unique glimpse into Indigenous culture.

35. Old Montreal

Old Montreal immerses visitors in history with its cobblestone streets and monuments. Notre Dame Cathedral serves as a central landmark. Delve into the area’s rich heritage as you explore the historic sites that surround it.

36. Mont Tremblant

Mont Tremblant is a year-round adventure hotspot built around the famous Mont Tremblant ski hill. With a lively village filled with excellent dining and nightlife options and located just 90 minutes from Montreal, it provides all the essentials for an incredible weekend getaway.

37. Dempster Highway

For the ultimate driving adventure, the Dempster Highway leads you all the way to the Arctic Ocean, starting in Inuvik and ending in Dawson City, Yukon.

As you journey along this highway, be sure to explore Tombstone Territorial Park, known for its striking peaks and rich Indigenous heritage. Expect to encounter incredible wildlife, including grizzly bears along the roadside.

38. Dawson City

Dawson City is a national historic site, preserving its facade from the Klondike Gold Rush days. Experience the charm of this historic town, where you can take in stunning views of the Tombstone Mountains and enjoy the local tradition of the famous Sour Toe Cocktail.

39. Ivvavik National Park

Ivvavik National Park is the premier spot in Canada for grizzly bear viewing in the wild, providing a truly remote experience. Stay in prospector tents surrounded by scenic beauty, offering opportunities to witness these majestic creatures among spectacular landscapes.

40. Mackenzie Delta

The Mackenzie Delta, a unique ecosystem that flows into the Arctic Sea, creates mesmerizing views, particularly when the ice melts. The delta transforms into a landscape of creeks and ponds, heralding the arrival of summertime beauty.

41. Torngat Mountains

The Torngat Mountains await on our travel list, as highlighted by travel writers. These majestic mountains promise stunning vistas and unforgettable experiences.

42. Gros Morne National Park

Gros Morne National Park captivates those yearning for breathtaking views and natural beauty, as shared by fellow travelers who have visited this stunning area.

43. Grasslands National Park

Visiting Saskatchewan during our earlier adventures, Grasslands National Park remains on our wish list for its populations of wild bison and vast landscapes worth exploring.

In conclusion, these are the best places to visit in Canada that we’ve personally experienced. We also highlighted places we anticipate exploring in the future.

Where have you traveled in Canada? What other destinations should we consider adding to our list?