Top 9 Most Beautiful Places in Canada

Nestled between mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver is a true gem of the West Coast. This bustling metropolis seamlessly blends urban life with nature's bounty. Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Seawall, embracing the breathtaking views of the city skyline and surrounding mountains. For an adrenaline rush, tackle the challenging Grouse Mountain hike, affectionately known as “Nature's Stairmaster” due to the steep, 2,800-foot ascent across nearly two miles. Instead of a rigorous climb, you can board the gondola for equally stunning panoramas across the landscape to view one of the most beautiful places in Canada.

Learn about indigenous culture at Stanley Park, where you'll connect to the rich heritage of the region's First Nations, and treat yourself to Vancouver's world-class culinary scene, celebrated for restaurants serving unforgettable sushi, seafood, dim sum, indigenous dishes, and more. A mesmerizing sunset at the Lion's Gate Bridge or Whytecliff Lookout Point often serves as the highlight of any Vancouver trip.

Vancouver Island is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Start your journey in Victoria, the charming provincial capital, where you'll be transported back in time by its British colonial architecture before venturing into the heart of the island to marvel at the ancient giants in Cathedral Grove, part of MacMillan Provincial Park. Find yourself dwarfed by towering old-growth trees, some over 800 years old.

For a touch of action, you can brave the wild waves of Tofino for world-class surfing or witness the raw power of winter storms. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by the chance to spot majestic grizzly bears and graceful orcas in their natural habitats. The indigenous people, with their rich culture, demonstrate elements of their heritage and history within art galleries, museums, and on guided tours.

The Canadian Rockies are a testament to nature's awe-inspiring power and beauty. Embark on a guided indigenous hike to gain a deeper understanding of the land's history and significance when exploring the trees, boulders, and terrain. If you're looking to escape the crowds, head to Kananaskis Country, a hidden gem that rivals Banff in its beauty, but remains a relative secret.

You could also consider visiting Banff during the off-season for a more serene experience within the iconic national park that offers hiking, lake cruises, skiing, and ice skating. For a truly unique perspective, hop aboard the Rocky Mountaineer or VIA Rail to witness the breathtaking landscapes from the comfort of a train or indulge in the scenery by driving the epic Icefields Parkway to wind past the glaciers, waterfalls, and wildlife that encapsulate the Canadian wilderness.

The Canadian Prairies span Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta, providing a diverse array of experiences that often surprise visitors. In Alberta, channel your inner paleontologist and hunt for dinosaur bones in the badlands. The region's prehistoric past can come alive as you unearth fossils millions of years old. For a change of pace, venture into Saskatchewan's Grasslands National Park to lose yourself in the vast, open skies and rolling grassland.

Foodies will delight in exploring the burgeoning culinary scenes of Saskatoon and Winnipeg. Here, farm-to-table dining takes on new meaning as restaurants craft dishes using local heritage grains and locally sourced meats, or rotate seasonal menus with ingredients from nearby farms.

To round out your prairie adventure, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites that celebrate indigenous culture, such as Writing-on-Stone / Áísínai´pi, known for hosting the largest concentration of rock art on the North American Great Plains.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and has a vibrant ambiance that never fails to excite visitors from around the world. Begin your urban adventure with a ferry ride to the Toronto Islands, where you'll be rewarded with stunning skyline views and peaceful beaches. Back in the city, lose yourself in the charm of the Distillery District, where you can enjoy a pedestrian-only village filled with Victorian-era architecture, boutique shops, and art galleries.

If you love culture, you will be in your element exploring world-class museums like the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Royal Ontario Museum. For a deeper dive into the city's history, wander the streets of Old Toronto and find the bustling St. Lawrence Market, home to over 120 vendors of artisanal products and local flavors. No visit to Toronto is complete without ascending the CN Tower to visit the observation deck, where you'll gain a new appreciation for the city's vastness and beauty from 114 stories above ground.

Montreal is a city where old-world charm meets modern vibrancy, making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Canada. Your journey through the city can start on a walking tour through Old Montreal, where cobblestone streets and historic buildings transport you centuries through time. To experience the city like a local, explore by bike and discover Montreal's extensive cycling network.

Climbing the city’s namesake hill of Mount Royal can give you a marvelous view of the stone architecture and streets before indulging in the city’s legendary cuisine, from poutine to traditional French Canadian meat pies. For a spiritual connection, the awe-inspiring Saint Joseph's Oratory is one of the world's largest churches, further highlighting Montreal's unique blend of European flair and North American energy.

Step into a living history book in Quebec City, North America's only walled city north of Mexico. Walking through Old Town’s enchanting ambiance will reveal centuries-old architecture and European-style charm. Just outside the city, you can marvel at the powerful Montmorency Falls, which stands over 98 feet taller than Niagara Falls.

For an interesting perspective of the city, take a ferry across the St. Lawrence River to Levis and enjoy the views of Quebec City's skyline. Delve into indigenous culture with a visit to nearby Wendake, home to the Huron-Wendat Nation, to connect with the residents and learn about their history in the Great Lakes region or their skills in farming crops like beans and squash. Venture beyond the popular corners of the city to explore vibrant neighborhoods like Saint-Sauveur, where you can discover the Ilana Pichon mural that showcases the neighborhood’s artistic spirit.

The Maritime provinces cover New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island, offering a diverse collection of experiences. Learn about the unique blend of French and Maritime traditions in Acadian culture when exploring parts of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia.

On Prince Edward Island, challenge yourself to the Island Walk by trekking the 435-mile trail that circumnavigates the entire province. In New Brunswick, you can witness the world's highest tides at Fundy National Park or hike through lush Acadian forests. Nova Scotia's Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island reveals one of Canada’s most spectacular coastal views, while also connecting you to surprising Celtic communities.

For a taste of Maritime flavors, embrace an experience in Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley, where you can sample local wines, forage for ingredients, and create farm-to-table meals accentuated by the Maritimes' warm hospitality and stunning landscapes.

Newfoundland and Labrador make up Canada's beautiful easternmost province, one that’s often overlooked. The region is full of rugged beauty and rich culture. In Gros Morne National Park, you can hike across the Earth's mantle on the Tablelands to find a geological wonder usually hidden deep beneath the ocean.

Explore one of North America's oldest cities in St. John's, known as much for its age as for its colorful row houses and lively music scene. Depending on the season, you might spot massive icebergs, playful whales, or charming Atlantic puffins when cruising the water to visit Fogo Island and the world-renowned Fogo Island Inn, an architectural marvel perched on the edge of the North Atlantic.

In Labrador, you can step back in time at historic sites like Red Bay and Battle Harbour, which tell the tales of early European settlers, as well as the histories of indigenous peoples. Newfoundland and Labrador's untamed wilderness and warm-hearted locals provide an unforgettable experience in an often overlooked destination.

From the urban vibrancy of Vancouver and Toronto to the rugged beauty of the Rockies and Newfoundland, Canada's diverse landscapes offer something for every traveler. All of the destinations showcase natural wonders and rich cultural heritage, demonstrating why Canada is such a remarkable country to explore.

Whether looking for unique places to visit as a family or interested in distinctive artisan experiences around the world, you can find in-depth information and travel tips on visiting new places with our Zicasso travel guide.