A fan of the outdoors, eh? Then Canada is 110% the country for you. Mountains so tall and far and wide that you can fill the valley space between with at least 20 Contiki crews; cities that range from vibrant to charming and fairytale-like; and the mix of culture, adventure, and peace that you’ll find all throughout. This place is a dream, and you’ll be humming ‘Oh Canada’ all the way on your flight back home – don’t worry, it won’t be annoying for the person sitting next to you, they’ll be doing the same!

So if you’re planning a trip to this glorious country and need some help, consider this your official Canada travel guide that’ll set you on the right path. We’ll tell you where to find the best and cheesiest poutine, where to catch a glimpse of the snowiest mountains, and where you can use the Canadian slang you’ve been brushing up on.

Best times to visit

The beauty of Canada is the fact that any time of year you visit is going to be great! So, yeah, there’s no clear cut answer to this question guys, sorry – it all depends what you want.

The quiet spring of Canada, filled with blooming flowers, still crystal lakes, and picturesque towns waking up is idyllic for anyone wanting a chilled getaway. We wouldn’t recommend swimming or anything like that, but this is ideal for hikes in the mild weather that won’t have you chilled to the bone or sweating all over the place.

But if it’s the blazing summer sun you want then this is a great season to visit Canada too! You’ll get to enjoy some really warm weather that sets the scenery alight and makes everything seem that much more vivid. And, if it’s true fire you’re looking for, autumn is the one for you – those Canadian fall colours can’t be rivalled anywhere else. Catch the maple leaf reds and vermillions shining like jewels in the late year’s sun, and then smear some maple syrup on a great stack of warming pancakes!

Winter is a great option for Canada as well because it’s ski season! With the likes of Banff National Park and many other mountains and resorts, your need for snow will quickly be satiated as you shred it down the mountain. Make sure to pack enough thermals though – it’ll get cold.

Things to do

Hit the slopes

Banff National Park

You haven’t skied until you’ve skied in Canada. The snow is unreal: glittering under the sun, thick and fluffy, and paired with some truly impeccable views. From Sun Peaks to Whistler to Banff, you’ll have the time of your life.

Go for many, many hikes

The Rockies

Of course you can opt for a relaxing vacation in Canada, but with a land as open and wild and free as this, it would be a shame not to go for at least one hike. Whether you’re an expert hiker or a total beginner, there’s bound to be a trail for you, and the totally awesome views from the Rockies (there’s no better place to hike!) will make you forget your huffing and puffing. Trust us!

Have a food crawl of the best smoked-meat sandwiches

Montreal

A Montreal speciality that you simply can’t exit the Canadian border without trying first, the smoked-meat sandwich is a classic that’ll fill you with amazing flavours and that warm fuzzy feeling that good food always delivers.

Wander through Québec in a daydream

Québec

There’s so much to do in Québec, so a day trip or two is fully in order. Whether you’re visiting the stunning Château Frontenac, going shopping, hitting the books to cram on history, or going for an indulgent wine tour, Québec will put a smile on your face no matter what.

Connect with Indigenous communities

Jasper, Alberta

If you have the opportunity to connect with any of the Indigenous people of the area, you absolutely always should! Head to Jasper and meet the incredible and empowering Warrior Women that make up the backbone of their community.

Go whale watching

Nova Scotia

There’s nothing like a spot of whale watching to calm the nerves after a day of travel and activities. These gentle giants are a sight to behold, and heading out on a boat to get a glimpse of them is only one of the many beautiful things to do in Nova Scotia.

Gawk at Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, Ontario

One of Canada’s most famous natural wonders, this behemoth of a waterfall should be at the top of your list of things to see (and hear) on your trip! 

Top 5 places to hike in Canada

The Skyline Trail

Alberta

Looping around the Rockies, this hiking trail promises views that span over the treetops and into the clouds. You’ll be on top of the world!. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some caribou, wolves, and bears (though keep a safe distance).

Mont-Saint-Alban trail

Québec

This is an intermediate trail for those with some experience who don’t want to go for the full thing just yet. Set along the coast, you’ll get classic forest vibes, as well as that fresh salty breeze and ocean sights that span forever and ever and ever…

East Coast Trail

Newfoundland & Labrador

No, despite the location name, this trail is not filled with puppies yelping and waiting to be picked up and taken home (though how amazing would that be?). What the East Coast Trail does have, though, is over 330 km of trails of all levels, so there’s something for everyone here.

Garibaldi Lake

British Columbia

For those that like big bodies of water with their hikes, the train around Garibaldi Lake is something out of this world. Blue water flanked by stunning and sheer mountains and cliff faces – you’ll feel like you’re straight out of The Lord of the Ringsor something.

The Bruce Trail

Ontario

Canada’s OG trail, you can’t miss this one. It’s the oldest hiking trail in the country, and also the longest, so it’s perfect for those that crave a sense of wonder and history and want to really feel like they’ve accomplished and been a part of something by the end of it.

Read more about the best hikes in Canada.

Top 5 museums in Canada

National Gallery of Canada

Ottawa, Ontario

The national art museum of Canada, you can’t miss this one if you’re in the country’s capital and need a hit of culture. With both fixed and temporary exhibitions, you’ll get to discover some art through the ages, including a beautiful collection of Indigenous art.

Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History

Montreal, Québec

History buffs and bone collectors unite – the Archaeology and History museum will allow you to learn about Montreal and Canada, naturally, but also about the rest of the world like Mexico and France. It has a mix of interactive exhibitions as well, so you can join history yourself.

Royal Ontario Museum

Toronto, Ontario

With a little something for everybody, the Royal Ontario Museum combines art, culture, and history all in one unique building which itself combines the new and the old. This is the largest museum in Canada, so you’re bound to be in here for a few hours, soaking up all that new knowledge.

Hockey Hall of Fame

Toronto, Ontario

This one goes out to the sports fans, it would be a little rude to visit Canada and not pay homage to the country’s national sport. Either you know about hockey already and can’t wait to stop by here, or you don’t know much but you’re hoping to come out with some new faves. Lowkey, this makes for a great day-time activity.

Vancouver Art Gallery

Vancouver, British Columbia

With an exterior that rivals some of Europe’s most famous museums, the Vancouver Art Gallery is a no-brainer if you find yourself over on this end of the country. Recognized as an innovative institution, this museum prides itself on displaying both historical and contemporary art from around the world, with special attention to Indigenous artists.

What to pack

We’re back on the fence, guys… Sorry! Honestly, packing for Canada is no different than packing for any other vacation, you’ll just have to take a few variables into account. 

Raincoat and waterproof shoes

Even if you’re travelling in the summer, always prepare for rain! So a raincoat and some waterproof shoes are a must.

Comfortable shoes

And on the topic of shoes if you’re planning on hiking you’ll want a really comfortable pair as well as some thick socks!

A portable charger

Nothing worse than exploring the great Canadian wilderness and running out of battery half-way through your excursion. Trust us, this could be a life saver.

Plenty of suitcase room

Not so much a ‘what to pack’ item as it is a ‘what not to pack’ item – you’ll probably be bringing home some souvenirs (or heaps of maple taffy at the very least), so make sure you’ve got room left to cram it all in!

Canadian dollars NOT US dollars

I mean, we all know Canada is a different country, duh, but when both currencies are called dollars it can potentially get a little confusing… So double check you’re getting the right ones!

Stressed about holiday packing? Read about our handy tool here.

What to eat

Poutine

Heaps and heaps of it! If you’ve never had a plate-full of this gravy-smothered goodness you’re missing out. And as soon as it touches your lips you’ll never want to go back. Poutine is THE quintessential Canadian staple, so find out where to eat the best of it!

Smoked-meat sandwiches

Touched on above, but we have to discuss it again – this thick and meaty sandwich is a must have and to be honest I’m salivating just thinking about it. You’ll get what I mean soon… 

Maple taffy

When the mood for a sweet treat arises, maple taffy has to be your go to. Watching it being made is a treat in and of itself: boiling maple syrup is rolled onto ice, rolled up with a stick, and enjoyed then and there! Divine.

Lobster rolls

There are few things better than fresh seafood, and in Canada you can get it all on a budget! Head to Nova Scotia on the coast for the most buttery delicious lobster rolls you’ll ever have. Yum!

Beavertails

No, they’re not actually appendages cut off from the poor critters; beavertails are quite simple and a lot more appealing: fried dough slathered with whatever decadent topping you like. Nutella, peanut butter, jam, pieces of chocolate, banana slices, whatever your heart desires.