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Top 10 Cities to Visit in Canada
Canada is packed with a myriad of experiences; from the rugged beauty of Vancouver to the historic charm of Quebec City to the buzzing metropolis of Toronto, there is no shortage of places to see. And the cities?
Each one has its own unique persona, just waiting to be discovered. Deciding where to go can be a pickle, but don’t worry, we’ve got you.
We’ve cherry-picked the top cities to visit in Canada. Whether you’re looking for culture, cuisine, history, adventure, or just a good ol’ pleasant time, these cities have got you covered, so read on!
Toronto
Toronto is “The Big Smoke”, like New York but way, way friendlier. Seriously, go ahead and ask for directions; you’ll get more help than you bargained for.
Sky-high towers, massive shopping centers, and that unmistakable modern city vibe make Toronto a must-visit for any urban explorer. Of course, let’s not forget the iconic CN Tower. Go up to the top, and you’ll feel like you can touch the clouds.
Toronto’s multicultural nature also stands out, with neighborhoods like Chinatown, Little Italy, and Koreatown offering a global experience in a single city. Not to mention the food—oh, the glorious, glorious food.
Local tip: Hit up Kensington Market on Sunday, when the car-free environment enhances the vibrant and artsy atmosphere.
Vancouver
Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the North Shore Mountains, Vancouver’s a real looker. This west coast seaport will stun you with its breathtaking landscape and laid-back charm.
If you’re into outdoorsy stuff, this city will not disappoint. You can kick-start your hike from Grouse Mountain, then chill later at Kitsilano Beach.
But don’t go thinking it’s all nature and exercise; the city’s social scene is hopping too, with top-rated breweries, trend-setting bistros, and a diverse nightlife.
The city also boasts epic events like the Vancouver Folk Music Festival and the Celebration of Light firework competition. And oh, did we mention it’s Hollywood North?
Local tip: Granville Island is every foodie’s heaven; don’t miss out on its public market.
Montreal
Famed for its beautiful Old Town with cobbled streets and horse-drawn carriages, Montreal gives you a European vibe right here in North America!
Climb up Mount Royal for an overlook of the city, or just chill in the Plateau neighborhood with a locally brewed beer.
Montreal’s food scene is no less exciting, with a variety of international and local dishes. Let’s not even get started on the city’s nightlife—from jazz clubs to swanky underground bars, it’s all here.
And unsurprisingly, the city has a thriving arts scene, with multiple small galleries and arts festivals happening year-round.
Local tip: The Montreal bagel is a must-try; choose between Fairmount and St-Viateur Bagel shops, or try both!
Quebec City
Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is right up your alley with its 17th-century architecture and winding alleys. Stroll along the beautiful Terrasse Dufferin or explore the historic Petit Champlain district.
While here, get a taste of the city’s culinary prowess by indulging in tourtière, a local meat pie. Enjoy the vibrant arts scene at Rue du Trésor, which turns into an open-air gallery during the summer.
Local tip: Don’t forget to check out Montmorency Falls, which is higher than Niagara Falls and just minutes away from the city center.
Ottawa
Ottawa is piled high with impressive national sites like Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, which turns into the world’s longest ice skating rink in winter, and museums that’ll make your Instagram pop.
Explore ByWard Market, one of Canada’s oldest public markets that transforms into a food and shopping haven.
Ottawa’s food scene remixes Canadian classics and invites international flavors to the party, with over 1,100 restaurants in town. Take a walk around the Glebe neighborhood, and you’ll find quirky boutiques, delicious food spots, and good vibes all around.
Local tip: Check out the Canadian Tulip Festival in May; it’s truly a spectacle with a million tulips blooming around the city.
Calgary
For those out of the loop, Cowtown (Calgary) is, in a word, rad. If New York and the Wild West had a baby, that’s Calgary for you.
Skyscrapers meet the prairies, creating a fusion that’s hard to beat. And speaking of beats, Calgary’s Stampede, an epic rodeo, is a foot-stompin’, action-packed event that defines this city.
The city’s cuisine is as eclectic as it is delicious, with food trucks, farmer’s markets, and top-tier restaurants all jostling for attention.
Local tip: In Kensington Village, you’ll find a groovy mix of shops, pubs, and restaurants. Head there for a fun-filled day.
Halifax
If you’re a fan of the sea, history, and maritime fun, then Halifax won’t disappoint. With natural beauty and a rich cultural history, this sure isn’t your average port city.
Start with a stroll at the historic Halifax Waterfront, a boardwalk lined with shops, eateries, and, yep, lots of boats. Visit the Citadel, a historic fort, for a glimpse of the city’s past, or dive deeper with a visit to the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
Get a taste of the local seafood, and when I say taste, I mean dive headfirst into deliciousness with the infamous lobster rolls and fish and chips. And let’s not forget about Halifax’s craft beer scene; it’s, dare I say, top-notch.
Local tip: Go to Point Pleasant Park for a lazy afternoon picnic; the view of the harbor is just sublime.
Victoria
Onward to Victoria, the city that’s more British than Britain itself. From tea and scones to stunning gardens, this is the ultimate city for all you Anglophiles out there.
The city boasts a captivating mix of old and new, from historic buildings like Craigdarroch Castle to the trendy scene around Lower Johnson Street with its indie boutiques and yummy cafes.
Speaking of food, you must try the city’s fish and chips; they’re simply to die for. Cruising around the harbor or embarking on a whale-watching tour could also make for an unforgettable day in this charming city.
Local tip: Head to Red Fish, Blue Fish—it’s a seaside eatery serving some of the best seafood in town.
St. John’s
St. John’s is the oldest city in North America. Imagine jelly-bean-colored houses cascading down a hill towards a harbor—that’s St. John’s for you.
The vibrant George Street, packed with bars and pubs, sure knows how to throw a party. Seafood doesn’t get any fresher than this, and paired with local beer, it’s unparalleled.
Oh, and if you’re into icebergs and puffins—yes, real, honest-to-god puffins—take a boat tour around the coast. St. John’s offers a unique mix of urban life, stunning landscapes, and compelling history that’s hard to resist.
Local tip: Check out The Rooms, where you’ll get a deep dive into Newfoundland and Labrador’s unique culture and history.
Winnipeg
You probably only know Winnipeg for its freezing weather and being the gateway to polar bear tours, eh? Well, this unassuming city is way more than that.
Start your day at The Forks, a historic site, meeting place, and hangout spot. You’ll find local foods, boutiques, and even a skate park there.
You can’t miss the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, a one-of-a-kind monumental piece of architecture that’s equally impressive inside. Vintage shopping in the Exchange District is also highly recommended; fun and funky finds are guaranteed!
Local tip: Visit during February for the Festival du Voyageur, a vibrant party celebrating the city’s French Canadian history with loads of music, food, and snow sculptures.
