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Things to Do in Canada
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Plan language: EnglishMost popular attractions in Canada
Things to do in Canada include experiencing the breathtaking views from the CN Tower in Toronto, standing close to the roaring 51-meter-high Niagara Falls, and wandering through the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec. Each offers distinct cultural and natural highlights within a few hours' travel from one another.
1. CN Tower
Toronto
Experience dizzying heights like never before. Walk on air and soak in stunning city views from the top.
Quick facts: Soaring 553 meters, this landmark was the world's tallest free-standing structure for over 30 years. Its glass floor lets you peek straight down to the bustling streets far below, thrilling many visitors.
Highlights: Daring thrill-seekers take the EdgeWalk, a hands-free walk around the tower's outer ledge, 356 meters above ground. At sunset, the panoramic views light up Toronto's skyline with colors that feel almost unreal.
2. Niagara Falls
Niagara
Feel the power of water's roar and vibrant lights in the night sky. Expect breathtaking views and a fun-filled boat ride under the falls!
Quick facts: Experience more than 168,000 cubic meters of water cascading over the edge every minute, creating an awe-inspiring thunderous roar. The impressive falls actually consist of three distinct waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.
Highlights: Neon lights illuminate the water nightly, bathing the falls in vibrant colors that shift through the spectrum. Dare to take the boat tour beneath the mist, where the roaring water feels like a powerful natural force right overhead.
3. Stanley Park
Vancouver
Quick facts: Enjoy 1,000 acres of lush forest nestled beside vibrant city life. Discover 27 kilometers of scenic trails winding through this natural oasis.
Highlights: Spot the unique totem poles at Brockton Point, one of the most photographed locations, showcasing Indigenous art and culture. Explore the Seawall, a stunning waterfront path offering breathtaking views of the ocean and mountains.
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Canada, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
4. Banff National Park
Banff
Explore breathtaking alpine landscapes and vivid turquoise lakes. Encounter wildlife and capture unforgettable mountain vistas.
Quick facts: Alpine wildflowers paint vibrant hues across mountain meadows during summer. The turquoise lakes owe their color to finely ground rock flour suspended in glacial water.
Highlights: Sunlight hitting the crystal-clear waters creates a glowing, almost surreal turquoise that photographers chase worldwide. Visitors sometimes spot elusive wildlife like mountain goats perched on steep cliffs against the stunning panoramic peaks.
5. Parliament Hill
Ottawa
Stunning architecture meets rich national history. Experience vibrant ceremonies, breathtaking views, and iconic Canadian landmarks all in one spot.
Quick facts: A stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture stands prominently with its tall central Peace Tower rising 92 meters high. The location hosts the famous Changing of the Guard ceremony, drawing crowds with its vibrant display and traditional music.
Highlights: Catch the daily sunset from the west lawn where the building glows in warm golden light, a sight that photographers cherish. The Centennial Flame, commemorating Canada's 100th anniversary of Confederation, offers visitors a chance to toss a coin for good luck while gazing at intricate stone carvings.
6. Royal Ontario Museum
Toronto
Explore vast collections that span natural history and world cultures. Encounter dinosaurs, gems, and vibrant indigenous art all in one inspiring visit.
Quick facts: Home to over 13 million items, it ranks among the largest museums on the continent. You can wander through displays ranging from towering dinosaur skeletons to sparkling gems and ancient artifacts.
Highlights: Step inside the crystal-like Michael Lee-Chin Crystal addition, a bold architectural contrast that feels like entering a gem itself. The First Peoples Gallery offers vivid, immersive exhibits that tell the stories and traditions of Indigenous communities with stunning artifacts and multimedia.
7. Gros Morne National Park
Gros Morne
Explore jaw-dropping cliffs and colorful landscapes. Hike across otherworldly terrain and spot rare wildlife.
Quick facts: Towering cliffs, deep fjords, and vibrant wildflowers shape the dramatic landscape here. The park's unique geological formation showcases rocks from the Earth's mantle, visible in the Tablelands area.
Highlights: The Tablelands expose rust-orange mantle rocks that look like a Martian landscape, surrounded by lush green forests and turquoise waters. Visitors can hike through terrain that tells the ancient story of continental drift.
8. Historic Distillery District
Toronto
Experience a blend of history and hip culture, perfect for foodies and art lovers. Wander cobblestone streets filled with unique shops, galleries, and buzzing cafes.
Quick facts: Cobblestone streets and historic red-brick buildings set the scene for an old whiskey distillery reborn as a lively arts and entertainment hub. Over 40 boutiques, galleries, and eateries bring a modern buzz to this Victorian industrial charm.
Highlights: The district boasts the world’s largest collection of Victorian-era industrial architecture, with 13 heritage buildings showcasing intricate ironwork and original brickwork. Visitors can savor artisanal foods and craft spirits while enjoying outdoor art installations and street performances year-round.
9. Whistler Blackcomb
Whistler
Epic alpine adventure awaits on vast snowy slopes and scenic gondola rides. Experience breathtaking mountain views and endless outdoor fun.
Quick facts: Whistler Blackcomb boasts over 8,100 acres of skiable terrain, making it one of the largest ski resorts in North America. The area receives an average of 462 inches of snowfall annually, ensuring top-notch powder conditions.
Highlights: The resort's Peak 2 Peak Gondola spans 4.4 kilometers, holding the record for the longest free span between ropeway towers in the world, offering jaw-dropping panoramic views across towering peaks and deep valleys. Night skiing under starlit skies transforms the mountains into a magical playground with vibrant lighting and a quiet atmosphere.
Where to Stay in Canada
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Traditional Sweet Dishes
Nanaimo Bars
Nanaimo Bars are a no-bake dessert named after the city of Nanaimo in British Columbia, featuring a layered combination of a crumbly base, custard-flavored middle, and chocolate topping.
Butter Tarts
Butter Tarts are a classic Canadian treat with a flaky pastry shell filled with a sweet, gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs, often with raisins or pecans.
Pouding Chomeur
Pouding Chomeur, or "unemployed man's pudding," is a Quebecois dessert made with cake batter and hot syrup poured over it, resulting in a sweet, sticky treat as the syrup sinks to the bottom.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Poutine
Poutine is a beloved Canadian dish from Quebec consisting of fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in hot gravy, creating a deliciously comforting and indulgent meal.
Tourtière
Tourtière is a traditional Quebec meat pie made with minced pork or a mix of meats, seasoned richly and baked in a flaky crust, often served during holidays.
Peameal Bacon
Peameal Bacon, also known as Canadian bacon, is wet-cured and rolled in cornmeal, giving it a unique texture and flavor, commonly enjoyed as a breakfast meat.
Traditional Beverages
Caesar Cocktail
The Caesar is a uniquely Canadian cocktail made with Clamato juice, vodka, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, served with a celery salt rim, famous across Canada.
Maple Syrup Drink
Beverages made from pure maple syrup or maple syrup-infused recipes celebrate one of Canada's iconic exports, offering a rich, sweet flavor distinct to the country.
Ice Wine
Canadian Ice Wine is made from grapes that have naturally frozen on the vine, producing a concentrated, sweet wine that is highly prized internationally.
Frequently Asked Questions about Canada
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How much does it cost to live in Canada?
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Most popular day trips
Niagara Falls
Famous waterfalls on the US-Canada border with boat tours.
Toronto
Canada's largest city with a vibrant arts scene and landmarks.
Hull Heritage Area
Historic district with museums and river views in Gatineau.
Getting there
Airports
Train stations
VIA Rail Canada, Ontario Northland Railway
VIA Rail Canada, GO Transit, Amtrak
VIA Rail Canada, AMT
From Ottawa airport, take the bus or taxi to downtown. Train and bus connections are available for regional travel.
Click to get eSim for Canada
The easiest and most affordable way to get mobile internet wherever you travel.
Visa & entry
United States, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, EU countries
Most African, Asian, and some Latin American countries
Check electronic travel authorization (eTA) requirements for visa-exempt travelers before booking.
Comments (8)
Loved the overall vibe in Montreal, people are super friendly and the food scene is incredible. Stayed 5 days, could have easily stayed longer.
In winter, many attractions close early, plan indoor activities like museums for evening to make the most of cold days.
Weather was tougher than expected, rainy most days in Vancouver but the nature was breathtaking. Bring good rain gear!
Avoid eating near the CN Tower area, walk a few blocks away for cheaper, more authentic food spots.
Bus passes in Toronto last all day and are super cheap compared to single tickets, definitely grab a day pass.