11 Prettiest Places to Explore in Canada

O Canada! This huge, diverse, and beautiful country is one of our favorites in the world. We lived here for a couple of years and found ourselves constantly awed by its natural beauty and friendly locals!

Yup, Canada offers natural beauty in abundance, from its incredible national parks to its wild and rugged beaches. And when you factor in its vibrant cities, it’s no surprise that Canada attracts tens of millions of tourists every year. A single trip through Canada can cover lakes, mountains, and remote coastal towns. That’s what I love about Canada – how diverse it is, oh, and how friendly the Canadians are is another big plus in my book.

As the second biggest country in the world, narrowing down this list to just 11 of the prettiest places in Canada was a challenge, to say the least. But, luckily, I’ve managed to come up with what I believe to be Canada’s must-visit destinations. You see, I lived in Canada for a few years, so I have personally visited most of the beautiful spots I’ve listed below!

So, let’s get started, shall we?

Our top tips for visiting Canada:

• We used a Canada esim for our travels here and were delighted by its quick setup and dependable service. Having one meant we didn’t need a physical SIM card, and it really did help us stay updated on our driving routes, public transit options, and where to stop.
• Be prepared for the weather here; it varies significantly across the country and by season. It can get below zero in many parts in winter. So, pack accordingly for cold winters or rainy seasons.
• If you’re traveling from abroad, keep in mind that Canada is an enormous country! It’s best to focus on exploring one province or a smaller region unless you have several weeks available for your visit.
• Rent a car if you can – Canada is made for exploring on a road trip. It’s the best way to see the country, in my opinion. FYI, we tend to always book our rental car through Discover Cars. 

The PRETTIEST Places in Canada

1. Vancouver

Vancouver is a great introduction to Canada with mountain views, coastal walks, and affordable attractions.

We lived in Vancouver for two years, and what a time we had. It’s breathtakingly stunning! I mean, it’s surrounded on almost all sides by great big looming mountains. Known as the city where the beach and the mountains meet. It is undoubtedly one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

And of course, the stunning outdoor areas of Vancouver are among its main attractions. Yep, Vancouver boasts some of the finest parks and natural settings in North America, places like Stanley Park, Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, and Grouse Mountain. I just love how you can be exploring the downtown area in the morning and be in the mountains by lunch.

And even though Vancouver is notoriously labeled as an expensive city, you can keep costs down here by walking or using their reliable public transit and taking advantage of the free outdoor spaces (we particularly love Stanley Park and English Bay Beach).

Our Vancouver highlights:

• Hike up the Grouse Grind – Vancouver is home to one of the most famous hikes in B.C. The Grouse Grind is a super-challenging trail that climbs up the face of Grouse Mountain in North Vancouver. Funnily, it’s often referred to as “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster,” as you need to climb up a whopping 2,800 steps as part of the hike!

• The famed Capilano Suspension Bridge is a feat of engineering that hangs 70 meters over the Capilano River, and it’s 137 meters long. And the views are stunning – think lush green forest and a gushing bright blue river!

• Stanley Park – This gorgeous park (which is a whopping 404 hectares) overlooks breathtaking views of the city skyline, the North Shore Mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. The Seawall walk is the best part of the park, and it stretches 28 km long.

• Granville Island Public Market is a must-visit for foodies, as here you’ll find reasonably priced food choices (with a highlight on regional produce and dishes).

2. Vancouver Island

Nestled off the Pacific Coast in British Columbia (you get the ferry here from Vancouver, listed above), the island is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, from the rugged coastlines and sandy beaches to lush rainforests and towering mountains.

If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, you will love it here, as you can explore countless hiking trails (FYI, we love hiking in Sooke Mountain Provincial Park), kayak through serene waters, or watch for whales and other wildlife in their natural habitats.

Vancouver Island also boasts charming cities like Victoria (the capital of B.C.), with its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and amazing restaurants.

Our Vancouver Island Highlights:

• Wander around the Butchart Gardens in Victoria – Spread over 55 acres, these iconic gardens feature the renowned Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, and Italian Garden.

• Go surfing in Tofino – Known as Canada’s surf capital, Tofino boasts a variety of beaches, such as Chesterman Beach and Cox Bay. The consistent swells make it a year-round destination, though the summer months are particularly popular.

3. Banff

Banff National Park remains one of Canada’s most visited spots. The lakes, wildlife, and dramatic mountain peaks attract travelers from all over the world. It is, in fact, Canada’s oldest national park (it was established in 1885).

The park spans over 6,640 square kilometers, and as I said, it’s renowned for its stunning mountain landscapes, vibrant turquoise lakes, and diverse wildlife, including elk, grizzly bears, and mountain goats.

The most iconic sites here include Lake Louise, known for its breathtaking glacial waters, and the Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic drives in the country – it offers spectacular views of snow-capped peaks and sweeping valleys.

And the drop-dead gorgeous mountain town (Banff) at its heart is home to great restaurants and bars and attracts a mostly young, fun crowd.

As you can imagine, Banff is a very popular tourist destination, with July and August being the busiest months here.

Best things to do in Banff:

There’s lots to do in Banff, but some of my favorite things to do here include:

• Taking in the jaw-dropping scenery from the Banff Gondola – this 8-minute gondola ride takes you to the top of Sulphur Mountain. As you can imagine, the views on the way up and from the top are astounding, and you’ll be able to see Banff town as well as 6 different mountain ranges. The highest Starbucks in Canada is located in the lower terminal here.

• Joining a 3 hour white water rafting trip – In the summer months, you can book this fun whitewater rafting tour on the nearby Kicking Horse River, which is known to have some of the best rapids and whitewater in the country! It costs from $148 CAD per person.

• This awesome Via Ferrata climbing tour on nearby Mount Norquay – During the 2.5-4 hours tour, you’ll climb up rock faces, across a suspension bridge and basically test your climbing skills. No experience is necessary! It costs from $198 CAD per person.

4. Whistler

Whistler is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada, with well over 3 million visitors vacationing here annually. Its popularity lies in the fact that it is breathtakingly beautiful (think looming mountains and bright blue lakes). And there’s heaps to do here, like, if you love heart-stopping activities, you’re in luck – with bungee jumping, snowmobiling, and white water rafting all on offer in Whistler (dependent on the season, of course).

It’s also regularly ranked as one of the top ski resorts in the world, and Whistler Blackcomb (the name of the ski resort in town) is loved for its powder snow and tree-lined runs.

Whistler is located around a 1.5-hour drive from Vancouver, and that’s another reason for its popularity.

Whistler highlights:

We lived in Whistler for a few years, and we reckon some of the best things to do here include –

• Go Skiing – Whistler Blackcomb Ski Resort is consistently rated as one of the top ski resorts in the world. That’s thanks to its tree-lined runs and powder conditions. If you’re visiting in the winter we recommend waking up early to go skiing on Whistler mountain (between 7.15 and 8 am) for the popular Fresh Tracks.

• Off-road buggy tour – Learn how to drive your very own 4×4 off-road buggy and drive up backcountry mountain roads and narrow, thick-forested tracks. You can book the 3-hour Odyssey Tour here, prices start from $355 CAD per person!

• Ziplining – Ziptrek Ecotours offers 4 distinct zipline tours and the TreeTrek canopy walk. It’s also home of the Sasquatch – the longest zipline in Canada and the USA. The Sasquatch is 2km in length!

5. Jasper

Jasper is one of my favorite towns in Canada. When I visited, I could really imagine myself living there. Not only is it incredibly scenic, but it’s also the right mix of small-town charm with lots of activities and great restaurants. Some of my favorite restaurants/Cafes in Jasper include Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria and Evil Dave’s Grill.

Jasper is home to the world’s second-largest dark sky preserve. The annual Jasper Dark Sky Festival is held in October every year – it draws thousands of visitors and has had guest speakers from NASA as well as Hollywood celebrities in the past.

Our Jasper Highlights:

• Go hiking – Jasper has over 1,200 km of hiking trails, and some of the best in the area include Pyramid Lake and Maligne Canyon.

• Ride the SkyTram – Another great thing to do in Jasper is to hop on the Jasper SkyTram – Canada’s highest and longest, guided aerial tramway up to the top of the 2,263-meter summit. Grab some food at the restaurant at the top, and enjoy views of Mount Robson (in the next state, B.C.).

• White water rafting – If you’re visiting Jasper in the summer and you’re feeling adventurous, then you must book onto the two hour white water rafting tour on the Athabasca River. This is grade 2 rafting, so expect to get wet!

6. Toronto

As Canada’s largest city, Toronto is a must-see. It’s a vibrant, culturally rich city, and that’s reflected in its eclectic neighborhoods like Kensington Market and Chinatown.

Toronto is also famously home to iconic landmarks such as the CN Tower, from where you can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The Royal Ontario Museum is another iconic attraction here. It’s one of the biggest museums in North America and known for its impressive collections of art, culture, and natural history.

Plus, I was surprised by how many parks there are in the city – we particularly liked High Park. And you can also easily escape to the peaceful Toronto Islands for a day/ weekend.

Our Toronto Highlights:

• CN Tower – As I said, from the iconic CN Tower, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape from its observation deck or take a thrilling walk on the EdgeWalk.

• Stroll around the Distillery District – This pedestrian-only village is filled with charming boutiques, art galleries, and inviting cafes.

• Take the ferry to the Toronto Islands to enjoy its beautiful beaches, picnic spots, and stunning views of the city skyline.

7. Niagara Falls

This is one of the most renowned waterfalls in the world! And even though I found it quite touristy, I was still truly captivated. It boasts huge cascades of water that create breathtaking rainbows and a constant mist, and it’s set against a dramatic natural backdrop. It’s certainly a sight for sore eyes, as the saying goes.

Situated on the Niagara River, on the border between New York State and Ontario, Niagara Falls was formed roughly 12,000 years ago during the last Ice Age. There are three sections to the falls: Horseshoe Falls (the biggest at 188 feet), American Falls (110 feet), and Bridal Veil Falls (70 feet).

Many tourists opt for a guided tour of the falls from Toronto (like we did). A good choice, seeing as the two spots are only around a 1.5-hour drive apart. This 9-hour tour is the one we did and recommend. It costs $95 CAD per person and picks you up from one of three convenient pickup locations in Toronto. You’ll get free time at the Falls, with optional skip-the-line access to attractions. You can explore the whirlpool, indulge in a maple syrup tasting, and visit the historic Queenston Heights, too.

8. Montreal

Montreal offers a unique blend of European charm and North American spirit. Known for its stunning architecture, it boasts a captivating mix of historic buildings and modern skyscrapers.

For example, you can explore the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal (home to museums, art galleries, and the beautiful Notre-Dame Basilica) in the morning and, by afternoon, be among the skyscrapers in the CBD.

Montreal is a foodie’s paradise, too, renowned for its diverse culinary scene, and that’s mainly thanks to its big European influence. Classic French cuisine is everywhere here!

The city also plays host to many festivals throughout the year, such as the world-famous Montreal International Jazz Festival and Just for Laughs comedy festival.

Montreal Highlights:

• Walk through Old Port and waterfront paths – Also called the Vieux-Port de Montréal, this historic and vibrant area is located along the St. Lawrence River. It’s such a picturesque setting with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and scenic waterfront views. Here you can find attractions such as the Montreal Science Centre and the iconic Clock Tower.

• Visit public markets like the Jean Talon Market and the Maisonneuve Market to get a feel for local life in Montreal.

9. Quebec City

Like Montreal, Quebec City also offers cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and river views that feel different from the rest of the country. We loved exploring the old quarter, city walls, and the quirky, locally-run shops.

In fact, Quebec City is one of North America’s oldest cities, and the iconic Château Frontenac is one of the oldest buildings in Canada.

Quebec City Highlights:

• Explore the charming Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site – where cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture will transport you back in time.

• Enjoy exquisite French cuisine – The city is filled with heaps of excellent French restaurants like Le Clocher Penché. And of course, you must try Poutine while you’re here. This iconic dish is a French/Canadian infusion and features fries, gravy, and cheese. It sounds strange, but believe me, it’s delicious and comforting.

10. Nova Scotia

Even though it’s a bit of a hidden gem, Nova Scotia still draws tourists in with its gorgeous coastal drives, cozy fishing towns, and peaceful beaches.

Yep, its stunning coastline, with its dramatic cliffs and picturesque lighthouses, provides breathtaking views and opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and whale watching.

The province’s capital, Halifax, is a great city to check out thanks to its lively arts scene, delicious seafood, and historical sites such as Citadel Hill and the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21.

Our Nova Scotia Highlights:

• Drive the scenic Cabot Trail – Spanning approximately 298 kilometers (185 miles), this road trip is renowned for its stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean, lush forests, and rugged coastlines. It connects several charming communities, including Baddeck, Ingonish, and Chéticamp.

• Spend a few days in Halifax – The city is home to the historic Halifax Citadel, a star-shaped fortress offering panoramic views of the harbor. You should also stroll along the scenic waterfront boardwalk, discovering a plethora of shops, restaurants, and galleries along the way.

11. Newfoundland

This off-the-beaten-path province is renowned for its rugged coastline, picturesque fishing villages, and stunning landscapes, including the iconic Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site with dramatic fjords and towering cliffs.

On a vacation here, you can experience the thrill of spotting icebergs, puffins, and whales along the coast or explore the charming city of St. John’s, known for its colorful row houses and historic sites.

Plus, the super-friendly locals, often called “Newfoundlanders” or “Newfies,” are known for their welcoming nature and will make you feel right at home.

Newfoundland Highlights:

• Explore the city of St. John’s – The province’s capital boasts vibrant street art, colorful row houses known as Jellybean Row. And the historic Signal Hill, where Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless message.

• Check out Fogo Island – Known for its rugged natural beauty, this remote island offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage (a heavy Irish influence), and the iconic Fogo Island Inn.

Why do we use an eSIM when we travel?

A smooth mobile setup helps us stay organized as we move through large regions (like Canada). A Canada esim provides quick activation, steady coverage, and freedom from physical SIM cards. And it was super-useful to us in Canada, where long distances between cities require clear navigation.

When you’re traveling to different places, having a travel eSIM is super handy, especially when you’re hopping between cities with different transit systems. Staying connected digitally helps you make smart choices about where to go and keeps costs down by avoiding unexpected surprises along the way.

A Canada eSIM makes your trip way easier by giving you quick setup and reliable service no matter where you are. These digital travel eSIMs let you keep track of your plans, navigate routes, and stay connected as you explore different landscapes.

Renting a Car in Canada:

If you don’t have a car, I recommend renting one (or a campervan) so that you can stop where you like and get to off-the-beaten-path places during your time here. And I know that the cost of renting a car in Canada can be expensive. However, there are some ways you can save money. We tend to always book our rental car through Discover Cars. This is a search engine for rental cars and allows you to filter by price if you’re on a budget or by vehicle type if there’s a specific car you’re after.

Travel Insurance for Canada:

Travel insurance provides coverage for a range of situations, including flight delays, canceled flights, injuries, illnesses, etc. Depending on your policy, you could be reimbursed for hospital stays, meals, hotel stays, transportation, or even the entire cost of your trip.

This is how we find the best travel insurance for our trip, it helps us find the best travel insurance for our trip. On their site, you can compare the plans side by side so you can get the best insurance for your particular trip! As I always say, no trip is the same, so your travel insurance shouldn’t be either!

Thanks for Reading!

Canada offers tourists the chance to explore mountains, coastlines, historic cities, and scenic routes in one memorable trip. Vancouver, Banff, Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City, and Nova Scotia each offer unique experiences that are sure to stay with you forever. But, keep in mind Canada is HUGE – so it will be pretty difficult to squeeze all of the above places into one visit (unless you have months to spend here!)

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Last Updated on December 20, 2025 by snaphappytravel