Why Canada should be on everyone’s bucket list

A stand‑out travel destination, Canada should be high on everyone’s bucket list. It has everything, and you’ll soon find that Canada’s everything really is something. We don’t make that claim lightly, so read on to find out our top reasons to visit Canada and what it is about this country that has visitors flocking back time and again.

Canada is vast, both in geography and character, edging out the U.S. as the second-largest country in the world by area (only Russia is bigger). We’ve highlighted some of its must-see features, each one guaranteed to inspire and help you dig deeper into this incredible country. Your biggest challenge? Deciding what to see and where to go. Luckily, our local experts are here to make planning your trip easy. Read on for the inspiration you need to get started.

Our top reasons to visit Canada

There’s no doubt that Canada has something for everyone. From vast, untouched wilderness and stunning mountains and lakes teeming with wildlife to vibrant cities rich in culture and architectural gems, Canada offers an incredible range of experiences. You can customize your trip around your love for the great outdoors or your passion for culture, amazing food, and history.

No matter the season or type of landscape you prefer, the list of things to do in Canada is nearly endless. Want to kayak across a crystal-clear lake or canoe down a tree-lined river? Hike through the dramatic Rocky Mountains or hit some of the best ski slopes in the world? If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even walk on a glacier or go whale watching. And yes, Canada has some beautiful beaches too, many of them along the shores of massive freshwater lakes that look just like the ocean. Some Canadians even say the best sunset in the world can be seen from Lake Huron, near Toronto. These unforgettable lakes are just one of many reasons to visit Canada.

1. Take a road trip

Canada’s vast size, diverse landscapes, rich culture, and breathtaking natural beauty make it an ideal destination for a road trip. The roads are well-maintained and, in a country this big with only around 40 million people (compared to over 330 million in the U.S.), you might spot more moose than cars. That said, just like you wouldn’t at home, try not to cram too much into a single Canadian road trip. It’s best to focus on either the eastern or western provinces, figure out what excites you most and build your route from there. While you should be ready for some long drives, in Canada, the journey is every bit as rewarding as the destination.

Read more: Our complete beginner’s guide to Canada

2. Journey east

Southern Ontario and Quebec are perfect regions to focus on for a Canadian getaway. Distances between destinations are shorter here, making it easier to experience more in a single trip. For instance, from Toronto, you can reach the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour at Niagara Falls in under two hours. From the historic streets of Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a charming Parisian vibe, you can head to Le Mauricie National Park or go whale-watching on the St. Lawrence River.

City lovers will have a tough time choosing between Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City, and the capital, Ottawa. With just 550 miles separating them, you could even visit all four on one trip. Canada is a multicultural melting pot, and that’s reflected in its vibrant cities. You’ll find incredible diversity in art, music, festivals, food, and shopping. Each of these cities is a top destination in its own right, offering standout culture, entertainment, and culinary experiences, so no matter what you’re into, you’re bound to find something unforgettable.

3. Visit a thousand lakes (one of the best reasons to visit Canada)

We get it, lakes might not be the first thing that come to mind when planning a vacation. But Canada has more lakes than any other country in the world (over 850,000) and they’re truly something you have to see to believe. Framed by towering mountains and dense forests, these lakes are absolutely stunning in both scale and beauty. Head to the water’s edge for peaceful views and take part in activities like canoeing, kayaking, or fishing.

Many of Canada’s lakes are famous for their brilliant blue color, caused by glacial meltwater rich in minerals that reflect light. Two of the most photographed are Lake Louise and Lake Moraine, located in the Canadian Rockies. If you’re planning to visit these breathtaking spots, you’ll want to build your itinerary around Canada’s western provinces.

Read more: The best nature experiences in Canada according to local experts

4. Venture west to visit Canada’s top cities

Most western Canada adventures kick off in Vancouver, a city consistently ranked among the best places in the world to live and visit. It’s the perfect place to get your bearings, spend some time exploring trendy neighborhoods like historic Gastown or local favorite Granville Island. Vancouver Island is a destination all on its own, offering a little bit of everything that makes Canada special. The charming city of Victoria serves as your gateway to towering mountains, peaceful lakes, sandy beaches, and ancient rainforests. You can go wine tasting, or even catch some waves off the coast of Tofino.

5. Journey to the Rockies and Icefields Parkway

North of Vancouver is made for an epic road trip. Get ready for stunning mountain peaks, crystal-clear lakes, ancient glaciers, powerful waterfalls, and unforgettable views, plus the chance to spot wildlife like bison, elk, moose, and bears. The Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic drives in the world, lives up to the hype, as thousands of photos shared by awe-struck travelers prove.

This breathtaking route connects the iconic Canadian towns of Banff and Jasper, winding through national parks that are part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site. For panoramic views, try canoeing on Lake Louise or riding the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain. And when the sun sets, you’re in for a treat, thanks to minimal light pollution, this region boasts some of the darkest skies on Earth, perfect for stargazing.

6. Try the food; glorious food

Canada is a food lover’s dream, with global cuisine reflecting the country’s rich cultural diversity, everything from French-inspired fine dining to some of the world’s best lobster, plus Michelin-starred restaurants and a vibrant street food scene. And while the national dish might be poutine, thick-cut fries topped with gravy and cheese curds, it’s way more delicious than it sounds (think loaded cheesy fries with a Canadian twist). For dessert, don’t miss BeaverTails, famous for their uniquely shaped pastries topped with all kinds of sweet, creative toppings.

And when it comes to drinks, wine enthusiasts will be thrilled, Canada is home to more than 260 wineries. The Okanagan Lake region is especially well known, not just for its impressive wines but also for its beautiful beaches, making it a must-visit for foodies and wine lovers alike.

The best time to visit Canada

Canada’s weather is a story of extremes, with the western regions enjoying a mild climate while the rest of the country faces harsher winters. Unless you’re hitting the slopes or booking one of our winter getaways, Canada is mainly a summer destination for travelers. The best time to visit for warmer weather is from May through September, when you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, relaxing on the beach, or dining al fresco. In the eastern provinces, be ready for cooler evenings, even in July.

In the west, October still brings pleasant temperatures, while the east is cooler but popular for “leaf-peeping,” when locals gather to admire the stunning fall colors that Ontario is famous for. If a magical winter wonderland sounds appealing, December through March reveals Canada at its snowy, enchanting best. Winter in Canada isn’t just about the cold, it’s an immersive experience to savor, complete with hot chocolate and marshmallows.

Make it happen

Canada is truly one of the most diverse countries in the world, and it’s impossible to cover everything in just one post. Explore all of our Canadian trips and start planning your dream vacation today. With countless reasons to visit Canada, you’re sure to find an adventure that’s perfect for you!