Canada, the second-largest country in the world, offers an incredible diversity of landscapes, cultures, and urban experiences that continue attracting millions of visitors annually. From the rugged coastlines of the Atlantic provinces to the majestic Rocky Mountains, and from cosmopolitan cities to charming historic towns, Canada presents travelers with endless possibilities for unforgettable adventures.

As we move into 2025, Canada’s tourism industry has fully rebounded from the challenges of previous years, with cities across the nation investing in new attractions, improved infrastructure, and sustainable tourism practices. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, culinary delights, or simply the warm hospitality that Canadians are known for, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the 15 best cities to visit in Canada in 2025.

Each city on this list has its own unique character and charm, offering distinct experiences that cater to various travel preferences. We’ve compiled detailed information about attractions, accommodation options, local cuisine, transportation, seasonal considerations, and insider tips to help you plan your perfect Canadian adventure.

So pack your bags, prepare your camera, and get ready to explore the stunning beauty and vibrant urban life that Canada has to offer!

1. Vancouver, British Columbia

Why Visit Vancouver

Vancouver consistently ranks among the world’s most livable cities, and for good reason. This West Coast gem offers an unparalleled blend of urban sophistication and natural splendor. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the North Shore Mountains, Vancouver provides visitors with the rare opportunity to ski in the morning and sail in the afternoon.

Top Attractions

• Stanley Park: Larger than New York’s Central Park, this 1,000-acre urban oasis features the famous Seawall, ancient cedar forests, and the Vancouver Aquarium. The park’s new Indigenous Art Walk, opened in late 2024, showcases remarkable works by First Nations artists.
  
• Granville Island: This peninsula has transformed from an industrial area to a thriving cultural hub. The Public Market offers fresh produce and artisanal goods, while the island’s studios and theaters showcase local creativity.
  
• Capilano Suspension Bridge Park: Located just outside the city, this park features a 450-foot suspension bridge hanging 230 feet above the Capilano River. The 2024 addition of the Forest Illumination experience makes evening visits particularly magical.
  
• Museum of Anthropology: Housing one of the finest displays of First Nations art in the world, this museum provides profound insights into Indigenous cultures.
  
• Gastown: Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood charms visitors with its cobblestone streets, vintage lampposts, and the famous steam clock. The area has seen significant revitalization in 2024, with new boutiques and restaurants opening.
  

Culinary Scene

Vancouver’s food scene reflects its multicultural population. The city boasts exceptional Asian cuisine, particularly Chinese and Japanese. Don’t miss:

• Seafood: Fresh Pacific seafood is a highlight, especially at waterfront restaurants like Miku (known for aburi sushi).
• Richmond Night Market: Operating from May to October, this market offers authentic Asian street food.
• Craft Breweries: The city’s craft beer scene has exploded, with over 40 breweries in the metropolitan area.
• Farm-to-Table Restaurants: Establishments like Forage and Burdock & Co showcase the bounty of British Columbia’s farms.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury: The Fairmont Pacific Rim and the newly renovated Rosewood Hotel Georgia offer five-star experiences.
• Mid-range: The Listel Hotel and the DOUGLAS Autograph Collection provide stylish accommodations at more moderate prices.
• Budget-friendly: The HI Vancouver Downtown and the Buchan Hotel offer comfortable stays without breaking the bank.
• Unique Stays: The floating homes at Granville Island Marina provide a distinctive Vancouver experience.

Getting Around

Vancouver’s public transportation system is efficient and environmentally friendly. The SkyTrain connects major areas, including the airport. The SeaBus ferry links downtown with North Vancouver. The city is also extremely bike-friendly, with extensive cycling paths, including the 28-km Seaside Greenway.

The newly expanded TransLink mobile app now offers real-time transit information, bike-sharing options, and integrated payment solutions for tourists.

Best Time to Visit

Vancouver is a year-round destination, but summer (June to August) offers warm temperatures perfect for outdoor activities. Fall (September to November) brings beautiful foliage and fewer crowds. Winter (December to February) attracts skiers to nearby mountains, while spring (March to May) delights with cherry blossoms throughout the city.

Insider Tips

• Purchase a Vancouver City Pass for discounted admission to major attractions.
• Take advantage of free walking tours operated by Tour Guys to get oriented.
• Visit on the last Friday of the month when many museums offer evening hours with discounted or free admission.
• The new Vancouver Waterfront Path, completed in late 2024, connects Stanley Park to False Creek with stunning ocean views.

2. Toronto, Ontario

Why Visit Toronto

As Canada’s largest city and one of the world’s most multicultural metropolises, Toronto offers visitors an incredible diversity of experiences. The city seamlessly blends historic architecture with ultra-modern skyscrapers, creating a dynamic urban landscape that serves as the backdrop for world-class cultural institutions, professional sports, and vibrant neighborhoods.

Top Attractions

• CN Tower: Standing at 553 meters, this iconic structure offers breathtaking views from its observation deck and the thrilling EdgeWalk experience for the adventurous. The new augmented reality exhibit on the observation deck provides interactive historical perspectives.
  
• Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Canada’s largest museum houses an impressive collection spanning art, world cultures, and natural history. The 2024 expansion added significant new exhibition spaces.
  
• Distillery District: This pedestrian-only area features Victorian industrial architecture now housing boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. The district’s annual Winter Festival has expanded for 2025.
  
• Toronto Islands: A short ferry ride from downtown leads to this car-free paradise with beaches, picnic areas, and stunning city views. The newly renovated Centre Island gardens opened in spring 2024.
  
• Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): With over 90,000 works spanning from the first century to the present day, the AGO is a must-visit for art enthusiasts. The gallery’s recent acquisition of several major contemporary Indigenous art pieces has enhanced its already impressive collection.
  
• Kensington Market: This eclectic neighborhood offers vintage shops, international cuisine, and a bohemian atmosphere. The area’s new weekend street closures have created a pedestrian-friendly experience.
  

Culinary Scene

Toronto’s food scene reflects its status as one of the world’s most multicultural cities:

• Diverse Neighborhoods: Explore culinary traditions in Chinatown, Little Italy, Greektown, Little India, and Koreatown.
• St. Lawrence Market: Named one of the world’s best food markets by National Geographic, offering fresh produce, meats, and prepared foods.
• Food Halls: The newly opened Toronto Food Assembly brings together 18 high-quality food vendors under one roof.
• Fine Dining: Toronto boasts numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, including Alo, Edulis, and Quetzal.
• Specialty Food Tours: Culinary walking tours offer themed experiences around chocolate, cheese, beer, and more.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton, the St. Regis, and the newly opened Waldorf Astoria Toronto offer upscale accommodations.
• Mid-range: The Drake Hotel, Hotel Victoria, and the Gladstone House combine comfort with character.
• Budget-friendly: The Planet Traveler Hostel and the College Backpackers Inn provide affordable options.
• Unique Stays: The recently renovated Gladstone House offers artist-designed rooms for a truly Toronto experience.

Getting Around

Toronto’s public transportation system, the TTC, includes subways, streetcars, and buses. The UP Express connects Pearson International Airport to downtown in just 25 minutes. The city’s bike-share program, Bike Share Toronto, now features electric bikes and has expanded to over 700 stations.

The new TTC Visitor Pass, introduced in late 2024, offers unlimited travel for 1, 3, or 7 days at significant savings for tourists.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August) brings warm weather and numerous festivals, including the Toronto International Film Festival in September. Fall (September to October) offers comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage in the city’s many parks. Winter (November to March) can be cold but features the Cavalcade of Lights and Winterlicious food festival. Spring (April to May) brings mild weather and the colorful High Park cherry blossoms.

Insider Tips

• The CityPASS offers significant savings on major attractions.
• PATH, the world’s largest underground shopping complex, provides climate-controlled connections between major downtown buildings—perfect for winter visits.
• Explore beyond downtown: Scarborough Bluffs offers dramatic lakeside cliffs, while the Evergreen Brick Works provides urban wilderness and farmers’ markets.
• The newly introduced Toronto Cultural Corridor Card provides access to five major cultural institutions along Bloor Street.

3. Montreal, Quebec

Why Visit Montreal

Montreal offers an enchanting blend of European charm and North American energy. As the second-largest French-speaking city in the world after Paris, Montreal presents a unique cultural experience without leaving North America. The city is renowned for its historic architecture, thriving arts scene, and joie de vivre that infuses everything from its restaurants to its numerous festivals.

Top Attractions

• Old Montreal (Vieux-Montréal): Cobblestone streets and buildings dating back to the 17th century create a European atmosphere. The area’s new nighttime projection mapping shows illuminate historic facades seasonally.
  
• Notre-Dame Basilica: This magnificent Gothic Revival church features stunning interior with intricate wood carvings, stained glass, and the immersive AURA light show. The basilica’s newly restored ceiling was unveiled in early 2025.
  
• Mount Royal Park: Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (who also designed Central Park), this large urban park offers beautiful views of the city. The newly renovated Beaver Lake pavilion opened in winter 2024.
  
• Montreal Museum of Fine Arts: Canada’s oldest art museum houses an impressive collection spanning from antiquity to contemporary works. The museum’s 2024 expansion added significant exhibition space for Indigenous art.
  
• Jean-Talon Market: One of North America’s largest open-air markets offers local produce, cheeses, meats, and more. The market’s new winter pavilion ensures year-round operation.
  
• Underground City (RÉSO): This 32-km network of tunnels connects shopping centers, hotels, and transit stations, making winter navigation comfortable.
  

Culinary Scene

Montreal’s food scene combines French culinary traditions with multicultural influences:

• Iconic Montreal Foods: Don’t miss Montreal-style bagels, smoked meat sandwiches at Schwartz’s Deli, and poutine (French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy).
• Markets: Besides Jean-Talon, Atwater Market offers local specialties and gourmet products.
• Fine Dining: Montreal boasts world-class restaurants like Toqué!, Joe Beef, and the newly Michelin-starred Montréal Plaza.
• Plateau Mont-Royal: This neighborhood offers everything from casual bistros to trendy gastropubs.
• Food Tours: Local Food Tours Montreal offers specialized culinary walks through different neighborhoods.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Montreal and the newly renovated Four Seasons Hotel Montreal offer upscale experiences.
• Mid-range: Hotel Nelligan and Le Petit Hotel provide boutique accommodations in Old Montreal.
• Budget-friendly: M Montreal Hostel and Auberge Saint-Paul offer affordable options with character.
• Unique Stays: The William Gray combines historic buildings with modern design for a quintessentially Montreal experience.

Getting Around

Montreal’s public transportation system includes an efficient metro (subway), bus network, and seasonal water taxis. The BIXI bike-sharing program has expanded to include electric bikes in 2024. The REM light rail system, fully operational as of 2025, connects downtown with the airport and suburbs.

The new Montreal Transit App now integrates all transportation options including metro, bus, BIXI bikes, and car-sharing services for visitors.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August) is festival season, with events like the Montreal Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs comedy festival, and Osheaga music festival. Fall (September to October) brings spectacular foliage in Mount Royal Park. Winter (November to April) offers skating rinks, the Montreal en Lumière festival, and nearby skiing. Spring (May) sees the city come alive with outdoor dining and blooming gardens.

Insider Tips

• Many museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month.
• The newly introduced Montreal Cultural Pass provides access to 10 major institutions at a significant discount.
• Explore the city’s distinct neighborhoods: Le Plateau-Mont-Royal for cafes and boutiques, Mile End for hipster vibes, and Little Italy for authentic cuisine.
• Montreal’s Mural Festival has expanded the city’s outdoor art scene—download the Montreal Mural Map app to find impressive street art throughout the city.

4. Quebec City, Quebec

Why Visit Quebec City

Quebec City stands as the only walled city in North America north of Mexico, offering visitors a European experience without crossing the Atlantic. Its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town (Vieux-Québec) features cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a distinctly French atmosphere that transports visitors to another time and place.

Top Attractions

• Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec): Divided into Upper Town and Lower Town, this historic district features the iconic Château Frontenac hotel, the Citadel, and charming streets lined with boutiques and restaurants. The newly restored Saint-Louis Gate provides a magnificent entrance to the walled city.
  
• Montmorency Falls: Located just outside the city, these falls are 30 meters higher than Niagara Falls. The enhanced zipline experience and new observation platforms opened in summer 2024.
  
• Place Royale: The birthplace of French civilization in North America, featuring the oldest stone church in North America, Notre-Dame-des-Victoires.
  
• Plains of Abraham: This historic battlefield now serves as a beautiful urban park hosting festivals and events throughout the year. The new multimedia historical center provides immersive experiences of the famous 1759 battle.
  
• Petit Champlain District: One of the oldest shopping streets in North America, offering artisanal shops, galleries, and cafes in a picturesque setting. The district’s new winter light installation has become an Instagram favorite.
  
• Musée de la Civilisation: This modern museum explores Quebec’s history and culture through interactive exhibits. The “First Peoples” permanent exhibition was completely redesigned in 2024 with significant Indigenous input.
  

Culinary Scene

Quebec City’s food scene celebrates traditional Québécois cuisine with modern twists:

• Traditional Fare: Sample tourtière (meat pie), poutine, maple products, and hearty stews at restaurants like Aux Anciens Canadiens, housed in a building from 1675.
• Local Specialties: Try crepes, cheese fondue, and locally produced cider and ice wine.
• Marché du Vieux-Port: This farmers’ market offers local products including cheeses, meats, maple products, and fresh produce.
• Fine Dining: Restaurants like Restaurant Initiale and the newly awarded Michelin star recipient L’Orygine offer sophisticated Quebec cuisine using local ingredients.
• Food Tours: The Quebec City Food Tour takes visitors through the historic districts while sampling local specialties.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury: The iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac and the Auberge Saint-Antoine offer upscale experiences with historic charm.
• Mid-range: Hotel Clarendon (Quebec’s oldest hotel) and Hotel du Vieux-Quebec provide comfortable accommodations in the heart of Old Quebec.
• Budget-friendly: Auberge Internationale de Québec and Hôtel Hippocampe offer affordable options with good locations.
• Unique Stays: The ice Hotel (Hôtel de Glace), available from January to March, provides a truly unique winter experience just outside the city.

Getting Around

Quebec City is compact and pedestrian-friendly, particularly in the Old Town. The Écolobus electric shuttle service provides transportation within the historic district. For longer distances, the RTC bus system covers the metropolitan area efficiently. The newly expanded bike path network includes electric bike rentals for tackling the city’s hills.

The Quebec City Transport app now offers real-time tracking and integrated ticketing for visitors using public transportation.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August) offers pleasant weather, outdoor dining, and events like the Festival d’été de Québec music festival. Fall (September to October) brings spectacular foliage and harvest festivals. Winter (November to March) transforms the city into a magical snowy wonderland, highlighted by the famous Winter Carnival in February. Spring (April to May) sees fewer tourists and blooming gardens throughout the city.

Insider Tips

• The Funicular connecting Upper and Lower Town saves a steep climb and offers great views.
• Consider purchasing the Quebec City Pass for access to major attractions at a discount.
• Explore beyond the Old City: Saint-Roch district offers hipster vibes with craft breweries and trendy restaurants.
• The newly opened Observatoire de la Capitale provides 360-degree views of the city and surroundings from the highest point in the city.
• Free guided tours of Parliament are available daily and offer insights into Quebec’s political history.

5. Halifax, Nova Scotia

Why Visit Halifax

As the capital of Nova Scotia, Halifax offers visitors a perfect blend of maritime history, East Coast hospitality, and vibrant urban culture. With its deep natural harbor, stunning waterfront, and rich military heritage, Halifax serves as an ideal gateway to explore Atlantic Canada. The city has invested significantly in tourism infrastructure for 2025, making it more accessible and visitor-friendly than ever.

Top Attractions

• Halifax Citadel National Historic Site: This star-shaped fortress overlooks the city and harbor, offering living history demonstrations and panoramic views. The new immersive nighttime experience “Fortress After Dark” launched in 2024.
  
• Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk: This 4-km wooden boardwalk features shops, restaurants, museums, and harbor views. The recently completed extension now connects to Point Pleasant Park.
  
• Maritime Museum of the Atlantic: Learn about the city’s seafaring history, including exhibits on the Titanic disaster (Halifax was the closest major port). The museum’s new “Ocean Innovation” wing opened in early 2025.
  
• Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21: This national museum tells the stories of the one million immigrants who entered Canada through this former immigration facility. The expanded oral history collection now includes interactive terminals throughout the museum.
  
• Halifax Public Gardens: These Victorian gardens established in 1867 feature ornate fountains, rare plants, and a bandstand that hosts summer concerts. The gardens’ restoration project was completed in 2024, returning several historic features to their original glory.
  
• Alexander Keith’s Brewery: Founded in 1820, this historic brewery offers tours that combine history, beer tasting, and Maritime music. The new visitor center includes expanded tasting rooms and interactive brewing exhibits.
  

Culinary Scene

Halifax’s food scene celebrates Atlantic Canada’s bounty, particularly seafood:

• Fresh Seafood: Sample lobster, scallops, mussels, and the famous Halifax donair (a local take on the doner kebab) at waterfront restaurants like The Bicycle Thief.
• Farmers’ Markets: The Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market, one of North America’s oldest continuously operating markets, offers local products and prepared foods.
• Craft Brewing: Halifax’s craft beer scene has exploded, with over 30 breweries in the city and surrounding areas. The new “Halifax Craft Brew Trail” connects visitors with the best local offerings.
• Food Festivals: The Halifax Oyster Festival and Dine Around festival showcase local cuisine throughout the year.
• Food Tours: Local Tasting Tours offers culinary walking experiences through different Halifax neighborhoods.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury: The Muir Hotel (opened in 2023) and the newly renovated Lord Nelson Hotel offer upscale accommodations.
• Mid-range: The Halliburton and the Waverley Inn provide boutique experiences in historic buildings.
• Budget-friendly: The HI-Halifax Heritage House and the University of King’s College (summer only) offer affordable options.
• Unique Stays: The newly opened Harbor Houseboats offer floating accommodations right on the Halifax waterfront.

Getting Around

Halifax Transit operates buses throughout the metro area, while the newly expanded ferry service connects downtown with Dartmouth and Bedford across the harbor. The city is increasingly bike-friendly, with new dedicated lanes added in 2024. Car rentals are recommended for exploring the wider region, including the famous Cabot Trail.

The new Halifax Transit app provides real-time updates and integrated payment options for visitors.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August) brings warm weather perfect for waterfront activities and outdoor festivals including the Halifax Jazz Festival and the Halifax Busker Festival. Fall (September to October) offers spectacular foliage and the Halifax Oyster Festival. Winter (November to March) is less busy but features the Winter Lights Festival. Spring (April to May) sees the city bloom with fewer tourists.

Insider Tips

• The free downtown shuttle (introduced in 2024) connects major attractions during summer months.
• For the best views of the city, take the ferry to Dartmouth—it’s inexpensive and offers spectacular harbor vistas.
• McNabs Island in Halifax Harbor offers hiking trails and abandoned military fortifications, accessible by water taxi.
• The new Experience Halifax Pass includes transportation and admission to major attractions at a significant discount.
• Visit on Canada Day (July 1) for spectacular fireworks over the harbor and free events throughout the city.

6. Calgary, Alberta

Why Visit Calgary

Known as the gateway to the Rocky Mountains, Calgary combines cowboy heritage with cosmopolitan amenities. The city’s proximity to Banff National Park (just 90 minutes away) makes it an ideal base for mountain adventures, while its vibrant downtown, cultural institutions, and famous hospitality offer plenty to enjoy within city limits. Calgary’s significant infrastructure investments for 2025 have enhanced the visitor experience substantially.

Top Attractions

• Calgary Stampede: This world-famous 10-day rodeo and exhibition held every July celebrates western heritage with rodeo competitions, chuckwagon races, agricultural exhibits, and midway rides. The new Indigenous Village expansion for 2025 showcases First Nations culture more prominently.
  
• Calgary Tower: Standing 191 meters tall, this observation tower offers panoramic views of the city and the distant Rocky Mountains. The newly installed digital telescopes provide augmented reality views of city landmarks.
  
• Heritage Park Historical Village: Canada’s largest living history museum showcases western Canadian history from the 1860s to the 1950s with historic buildings and costumed interpreters. The park’s new “Energy Evolution” exhibition opened in spring 2025.
  
• Studio Bell, National Music Centre: This architectural marvel houses interactive music exhibits, the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, and a collection of rare instruments. The center’s expanded Canadian music archive now includes over 10,000 digitized recordings.
  
• Calgary Zoo: Home to nearly 1,000 animals from around the world, the zoo is renowned for its conservation work. The new “Arctic Edge” habitat opened in 2024, focusing on Canadian northern species and climate change education.
  
• WinSport (Canada Olympic Park): This legacy facility from the 1988 Winter Olympics offers skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and the newly renovated Olympic Museum.
  

Culinary Scene

Calgary’s food scene has evolved dramatically, now rivaling much larger cities:

• Alberta Beef: Sample world-famous Alberta beef at establishments like Modern Steak and Charcut Roast House.
• Innovative Restaurants: The city’s culinary innovators include Model Milk, Foreign Concept, and River Café, all emphasizing local ingredients.
• International Cuisine: Calgary’s diverse population has created vibrant international food scenes, particularly in areas like International Avenue (17th Avenue SE).
• Calgary Farmers’ Market: Two locations offer year-round access to local products and prepared foods.
• Craft Breweries: The Barley Belt in the southeast features multiple breweries within walking distance of each other. The newly established Calgary Brewery Tours offers guided experiences.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury: The Fairmont Palliser and the newly opened W Calgary offer upscale accommodations downtown.
• Mid-range: Hotel Arts and the Alt Hotel provide stylish options at moderate prices.
• Budget-friendly: HI Calgary City Centre and Wicked Hostels offer affordable accommodations for backpackers.
• Unique Stays: The Westley Hotel features locally inspired design and Calgary’s first rooftop greenhouse restaurant.

Getting Around

Calgary Transit operates buses and the CTrain light rail system, with free rides in the downtown core. The city’s extensive pathway system makes cycling an excellent option in warmer months, supported by the expanded bike-share program launched in 2024. For trips to the mountains, car rentals or tour operators are recommended.

The new YYC Calgary Connect app integrates transit, bike-share, car-share, and taxi services for visitors.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August) brings warm weather and the famous Calgary Stampede in July. Fall (September to October) offers comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Winter (November to March) can be cold but provides easy access to world-class skiing in nearby Banff. Spring (April to May) brings gradually warming temperatures and the vibrant Calgary Lilac Festival.

Insider Tips

• Purchase a Calgary Attraction Pass for discounted admission to major sites.
• Explore the revitalized East Village area, featuring the Central Library, National Music Centre, and riverside pathways.
• Time your visit with one of Calgary’s many festivals: the Folk Music Festival, Beakerhead (science and art), or Sled Island Music Festival.
• The new mountain shuttle service offers car-free access to Banff National Park from downtown Calgary.
• Prince’s Island Park offers an urban oasis with walking trails and outdoor events throughout the summer.

7. Ottawa, Ontario

Why Visit Ottawa

As Canada’s capital, Ottawa offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the country’s political institutions, national museums, and cultural heritage. The city straddles the Ottawa River, with Parliament Hill creating an impressive backdrop against the waterway. With both English and French widely spoken, Ottawa provides a truly bilingual Canadian experience in a beautiful setting known for its green spaces, historic architecture, and seasonal festivals.

Top Attractions

• Parliament Hill: The neo-Gothic Parliament buildings offer guided tours of Canada’s seat of government. The newly completed Centre Block restoration (reopened in late 2024) showcases the building’s historic features alongside modern upgrades.
  
• Rideau Canal: This UNESCO World Heritage Site transforms into the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink in winter (stretching 7.8 km). In warmer months, it’s perfect for boat tours and cycling along its banks. The canal’s 2024 infrastructure improvements have enhanced accessibility.
  
• National Gallery of Canada: Housed in a stunning glass building, this gallery features the world’s largest collection of Canadian art alongside international works. The new Indigenous Art wing opened in 2024.
  
• Canadian Museum of History: Located across the river in Gatineau, Quebec, this museum explores 20,000 years of human history in Canada with particular focus on Indigenous cultures. The Grand Hall features the world’s largest indoor collection of totem poles.
  
• ByWard Market: One of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets offers local produce, artisanal products, restaurants, and boutiques. The market’s 2024 revitalization added covered outdoor spaces for year-round operation.
  
• Canadian War Museum: This architecturally striking museum chronicles Canada’s military history from earliest times to the present day. The new “Peacekeeping in the 21st Century” exhibit opened in early 2025.
  

Culinary Scene

Ottawa’s food scene reflects both its political status and multicultural population:

• BeaverTails: These fried pastries topped with cinnamon and sugar are an Ottawa specialty, best enjoyed while skating on the Rideau Canal.
• ByWard Market Eateries: The market area offers everything from casual pubs to upscale establishments like Play Food & Wine and Métropolitain Brasserie.
• International Cuisine: Ottawa’s diplomatic community has influenced a diverse restaurant scene, particularly along Somerset Street’s Chinatown and Preston Street’s Little Italy.
• Farmers’ Markets: Beyond ByWard, the Lansdowne Farmers’ Market and the newly expanded Ottawa Farmers’ Market at Aberdeen Pavilion offer local products.
• Food Tours: C’est Bon Cooking offers culinary walking tours highlighting Ottawa’s diverse neighborhoods and food traditions.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury: The Fairmont Château Laurier (a castle-like hotel next to Parliament) and the newly renovated Westin Ottawa offer upscale experiences.
• Mid-range: Alt Hotel Ottawa and Andaz Ottawa ByWard Market provide stylish accommodations at moderate prices.
• Budget-friendly: HI Ottawa Jail Hostel (housed in a former jail) and the University of Ottawa summer accommodations offer affordable options.
• Unique Stays: The newly opened Makers House Hotel features rooms designed by local artists and craftspeople, showcasing Canadian creativity.

Getting Around

OC Transpo operates buses and the O-Train light rail system throughout Ottawa. The newly expanded LRT system now reaches major attractions and suburbs. The city’s extensive pathway network makes cycling an excellent option in warmer months, supported by the Capital Pathway network (over 800 km of multi-use paths).

The new Capital Region Transport app integrates services in both Ottawa and Gatineau for seamless cross-river travel.

Best Time to Visit

Winter (December to February) transforms Ottawa with the Winterlude festival and skating on the Rideau Canal. Spring (May) brings the Canadian Tulip Festival with over a million blooms. Summer (June to August) is perfect for outdoor activities and Canada Day celebrations (July 1). Fall (September to October) offers spectacular foliage in Gatineau Park, just across the river.

Insider Tips

• The Parliamentary Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place daily at 10 am during summer months.
• Free tours of the Supreme Court of Canada offer insights into the country’s legal system.
• Explore beyond downtown: The newly developed Zibi sustainability community spans both Ottawa and Gatineau waterfronts.
• The Interzip Rogers zipline (opened in 2023) allows visitors to cross from Ottawa to Gatineau over the Ottawa River—the world’s first interprovincial zipline.
• Many national museums offer free admission on Thursday evenings.

8. Victoria, British Columbia

Why Visit Victoria

Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria combines British colonial charm with Pacific Northwest natural beauty. As British Columbia’s capital city, Victoria features historic architecture, stunning gardens, and a picturesque harbor. The city’s mild climate (the warmest winters in Canada) makes it a year-round destination, while its position on the southern tip of Vancouver Island provides easy access to wilderness areas, coastal scenery, and abundant marine wildlife.

Top Attractions

• Butchart Gardens: These world-famous gardens transformed a former quarry into 55 acres of floral splendor. The gardens’ new evening light experience, launched in 2024, extends visiting hours year-round.
  
• Royal BC Museum: This premier cultural institution showcases British Columbia’s natural and human history, including an outstanding First Nations gallery. The museum’s modernization project, completed in 2024, enhanced its interactive exhibits.
  
• Parliament Buildings: These impressive neo-baroque buildings offer free guided tours and look spectacular when illuminated at night. The new visitor center provides context about British Columbia’s political history.
  
• Inner Harbour: The bustling harbor features street performers, food vendors, and boat tours against a backdrop of historic buildings. The harbor’s pedestrian infrastructure improvements were completed in early 2025.
  
• Craigdarroch Castle: This Victorian-era mansion built by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir features stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and period furnishings. The newly restored music room now hosts regular performances on the original 1879 piano.
  
• Fisherman’s Wharf: This floating village features colorful houseboats, food kiosks, and often playful harbor seals. The wharf’s expanded dock space now accommodates more visitors during peak season.
  

Culinary Scene

Victoria’s food scene emphasizes seafood, farm-to-table dining, and British traditions with Pacific Northwest twists:

• Afternoon Tea: The Fairmont Empress Hotel’s tea service is world-famous, while the White Heather Tea Room offers a more affordable alternative.
• Seafood: Establishments like Blue Crab Seafood House and Finn’s showcase the bounty of local waters.
• Farm-to-Table: The island’s agricultural abundance is featured at restaurants like 10 Acres Bistro and Agrius.
• Victoria Public Market: Located in the historic Hudson building, this market offers local products and prepared foods.
• Craft Beverages: Victoria boasts numerous craft breweries, distilleries, and the Cowichan Valley wine region is just an hour’s drive away. The new Victoria Ale Trail app guides visitors to local breweries.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury: The iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel and the newly renovated Oak Bay Beach Hotel offer upscale experiences.
• Mid-range: The Magnolia Hotel & Spa and Hotel Rialto provide boutique accommodations in the city center.
• Budget-friendly: Ocean Island Inn and HI-Victoria Hostel offer affordable options for backpackers.
• Unique Stays: The Delta Ocean Pointe’s new “Harbor View” rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Inner Harbour.

Getting Around

Victoria is a compact, walkable city, particularly in the downtown core. BC Transit operates an extensive bus network throughout the region. The city is extremely bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes and the Galloping Goose Regional Trail connecting Victoria with outlying communities. For exploring Vancouver Island, car rentals or guided tours are recommended.

The Victoria Regional Transit app now offers real-time bus tracking and integrated payment options.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to August) brings warm, dry weather ideal for outdoor activities and whale watching. Spring (March to May) features blooming gardens and the colorful Victoria Flower Count. Fall (September to October) offers mild weather and whale migration viewing opportunities. Winter (November to February) is mild by Canadian standards and features the Magic of Christmas at Butchart Gardens and the Chinatown Night Market.