Canada is the world’s second largest country by area, and offers a massive land mass to explore, as well as countless lakes, rivers, mountain ranges, bays, coastal areas, and islands in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Canada is a popular tourist destination for many Americans because of it’s close proximity, many flight options and English being the primary first language in most parts of the country.
The question, of course, is how to actually visit this massive country. How can you take it all in on a single trip? That’s probably not possible. However, what is possible is learning how to approach Canada in the right way.
Why Visit Canada?
People visit Canada for all sorts of reasons. For many, it is a kind of pilgrimage into the unknown where they can explore the natural landscapes of the place. For others, it is the cultural diversity and the Indigenous heritage that is most exciting.
The adventure opportunities are, of course, world-class. Canada is famous for its skiing, hiking, and kayaking, and rightly so. It offers some of the most incredible natural environments on the planet.
What You Must Do When Visiting Canada
Canada is a huge place, so you won’t be able to do everything when you visit. However, we’ve put together a list of priorities that you can indulge in when possible.
For example, you could hike or ski in Jasper and Banff. For travelers who love road trips, Canada is a dream destination. With its vast network of scenic highways, you can experience everything from coastal drives along Nova Scotia’s Cabot Trail to the awe-inspiring Icefields Parkway that connects Jasper and Banff National Parks. Driving through Canada allows you to see its changing landscapes at your own pace and stop at small towns, lakes, and hidden viewpoints along the way. Just remember that distances can be much greater than they appear on a map, so plan your routes carefully and give yourself plenty of time to take it all in.
You could also go whale watching off Vancouver Island or take the Kettle Valley Railway across BC. Whale watching off Vancouver Island is especially popular because the waters here are home to orcas, humpback whales, and gray whales depending on the season. Tours often depart from Victoria or Tofino, and along the way you may also spot sea lions, dolphins, and bald eagles soaring overhead.
In addition to its natural beauty, Canada is also home to vibrant festivals and events year-round. Winter brings the famous Quebec Winter Carnival, complete with ice sculptures, parades, and snow sports. Summer lights up with the Calgary Stampede, a massive rodeo and cultural celebration known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth.” Toronto hosts the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), attracting Hollywood stars and movie lovers from around the globe. No matter when you visit, chances are there will be a local celebration or cultural event that will give you a deeper appreciation for Canadian hospitality and traditions.
For cultural experiences, the best options are sites like the Haida Gwaii if you’re interested in the indigenous peoples, or the Museum of Ottawa (one of the biggest in the country). Canada, of course, has a lot of French influence, especially in Quebec. Here, it’s worth trying out the food and experiencing the local delicacies, like the cabane à sucre, which is a type of sugary dessert.
As for food and drink, you have a lot of choices. Montreal is famous for its poutine, which is a mixture of fries and cheese curds along with gravy. Quebec City is similar, with plenty of lobsters and oysters to enjoy. If you head on over to St Johns over in Newfoundland, you’ll find even more seafood. Locals haul this into shore from the Atlantic nearly every day, making it a must-have experience. The food is so much fresher than you’d expect.
Practical Tips
Of course, Canada is mostly a wild place with a few large cities dotted here and there. As such, you’ll need to be careful. The best times to visit are in the late spring and early fall. You want reasonably warm temperatures, but not heatwaves if you’re going to be outdoors a lot of the time.
Don’t try hiking in the winter unless you’re an expert. The weather is simply too cold in many parts of the country. Also, ensure you take enough money with you. Canada is quite an expensive country, and most tourists need around 100-200 CAD per day to thrive. Hostels are available if you need to reduce costs further.
Canada is a country of extraordinary scale and variety, offering something for every type of traveler—whether it’s awe-inspiring natural beauty, thrilling outdoor adventures, or rich cultural and culinary experiences. From the towering peaks of the Rockies and the wild Atlantic coastlines to bustling cities alive with festivals and history, Canada’s landscapes and communities invite exploration at every turn. While it’s impossible to see everything in one trip, approaching the country with a sense of curiosity and flexibility ensures unforgettable discoveries. Whether you’re skiing in Banff, savoring poutine in Montreal, whale watching off Vancouver Island, or exploring Indigenous heritage in Haida Gwaii, Canada rewards travelers with experiences that are as vast and diverse as the country itself.