Canada travel guide: When to go, what to see, and where to start

From poutine to national parks, Canada travel offers something for every kind of explorer. Stretching across six time zones and more than half of the Northern Hemisphere, the Great White North is the world’s second-largest country—and a magnificent one at that. Whether you’re exploring cities or the wilderness, Canada tourism provides a wealth of experiences to suit everyone. 

Read on for our Canada guide and everything you need to know on your first visit.

When to go: The best time to visit Canada

There’s no bad time to visit Canada—the best season to visit depends on what you want to see and do. From snowy peaks to lush wilderness, Canada offers something special year-round, with each season showcasing its unique beauty and experiences. 

Summer (June–August)

Summer is the peak travel season in Canada, with warm weather perfect for outdoor pursuits. It’s the best time to explore national parks, hike, camp, and enjoy wildlife watching, especially from summer to autumn. Popular activities also include fishing, boating, and white-water rafting, with more opportunities for exploring Canada's vast wilderness.

Summer is also the season for Alaska cruises, with ships departing from Canadian ports like Vancouver and Victoria, offering travellers the chance to explore the stunning Alaskan coastline.

Autumn/Fall (September–November)

Autumn is ideal for travel in Canada, especially road trips and witnessing fall foliage as the country’s landscapes transform with vibrant colours. Fewer crowds make it perfect for hiking in national parks or scenic drives through regions like Banff or Jasper. The wildlife also hunker down and prepare for winter during this time.

Winter (December–February)

Winter in Canada means skiing and snowboarding, and Canada travel tips will point you toward some of the best slopes in the world, including Whistler-Blackcomb and Lake Louise. For snow sports enthusiasts, it’s the peak season. You can also enjoy activities like snowshoeing, ice skating, and dog sledding, plus après-ski relaxation at cosy mountain resorts. 

Spring (March–May)

Spring offers a quieter experience, perfect for hiking and exploring wildlife as the weather warms and flowers bloom. It's the ideal time to experience Canada’s national parks without the summer crowds. The season offers the ideal conditions to experience Canada’s national parks in peace, which is why nature lovers book their Canada trip during these months.

A wildlife lover's dream destination

On a list of the world’s best wildlife destinations, Canada would challenge for a top spot. The country is home to an estimated 80,000 flora and fauna species, including blue whales – the largest animals on Earth. It boasts a huge array of mammals, from wolves to moose, bears, and bighorn sheep, many of which reside in the 37 national parks dotted across the country.

Wildlife experiences are a highlight of any Canada itinerary, especially for first-time visitors seeking encounters with iconic Canadian natives. Whether you're interested in spotting grizzly bears, witnessing a moose in the wild, or birdwatching along the coastlines, there's a destination for every nature enthusiast.

Top 5 Wildlife destinations in Canada for first-time travellers

Experience the wild side of Canada tourism and the most unforgettable animal encounters.

1. Banff National Park, Alberta

One of the most iconic destinations in Canada travel, Banff offers the chance to spot elk, bighorn sheep, and black bears against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. A must-stop on any Canada guide, this park is popular with nature lovers and photographers alike. 

2. Golden, British Columbia

With low population density and dense forests, Golden is a lesser-known gem for those hoping to see bears and deer in their natural habitat. It's a highlight in many insider Canada travel tips for wildlife lovers.

3. Jasper National Park, Alberta

A quieter alternative to Banff, Jasper is ideal for spotting caribou, moose, wolves, and grizzlies—often without an overwhelming crowd. For those seeking off-the-beaten-path Canada tourism experiences, Jasper offers just the ticket.

4. Churchill, Manitoba

Known as the polar bear capital of the world, Churchill is one of the only places where you can view these majestic creatures in the wild during October and November. It’s an experience recommended in any Canada travel guide.

5. Pacific Rim National Park, British Columbia

Coastal rainforests and rocky shorelines make this park a hotspot for birdwatchers, and it's one of the best places in Canada to spot whales from the shore. A favourite among eco-travellers and highlighted in many Canada tourism itineraries, it’s a must for nature enthusiasts. 

Pack your best camera

Canada has some of the most jaw-dropping landscapes in the world, from dreamy snow-capped mountains to glacial lakes in surreal blue hues. In fact, it’s hard to take a bad photo in the Canadian wilderness. Nevertheless, this is one destination worth capturing in high definition!

Essential equipment for budding photographers

• Bring a high-resolution camera or smartphone: Most recent smartphones can take incredible photos, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera is ideal for low light and wildlife shots.
• Consider a GoPro: Perfect for capturing action videos while hiking.
• Use a zoom lens: Especially helpful for safely photographing wildlife from a distance.
• Pack extra memory cards and batteries: Cold temperatures in mountain areas can drain batteries quickly.
• Know your gear before you go: Spend time learning the camera settings to make the most of your shots.

Top 5 photo spots in Canada

Now that you’re equipped with the best tips and gear, test your photography skills across some of Canada’s most iconic and picturesque locations. Inspiring Vacations can take you to these photogenic spots on our 7 Day Inspiring Canadian Rockies, 8 Day Eastern Canada Explorer and the 11 Day Premium Eastern Canada By Rail tours.

1. Moraine Lake, Alberta

The brilliant blue water set against a backdrop of the Valley of the Ten Peaks is pure postcard material.

2. Niagara Falls, Ontario

Iconic and dramatic, best viewed at sunrise or under evening lights.

3. Old Quebec City, Quebec

Cobblestone streets and historic architecture in Quebec City offers European charm without leaving North America.

4. Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia

One of Canada’s most photographed lighthouses perched on dramatic coastal rocks.

5. Lake Louise, Alberta

A mirror-like lake flanked by glacier-carved mountains; come early to catch it in golden hour. 

Experience Canada through sport

Sport is a big part of life in Canada, and catching a game is one of the most authentic ways to experience local culture during your Canada travel adventure. With different codes played across the seasons, sport is deeply woven into the national identity—especially ice hockey, which is practically a rite of passage for visitors.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious traveller seeking new experiences, these top sports offer a great insight into Canadian life and provide memorable moments to complement your Canada tourism journey.

Top 5 Sports to experience in Canada

Sports lovers unite! From ice hockey to curling, attending a sports match is a must-include in any Canadian trip.

1. Ice hockey (Winter)

Canada’s favourite pastime. Watch the National Hockey League (NHL) in cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver is a top Canada travel tip for sports lovers. 

2. Curling (Winter)

This strategic sport may seem unusual to outsiders but is beloved by many Canadians. Watching a national tournament or giving it a try yourself is a fun and immersive Canada tourism activity.

3. Basketball (Winter)

While not as popular as hockey, basketball is gaining traction, especially with the Toronto Raptors and their passionate fan base.

4. Canadian football (Autumn/Fall)

If you're in Canada during the fall, catch a Canadian Football League (CFL) game, where the rules are slightly different from American football. 

5. Lacrosse (Summer)

Recognised as Canada’s official summer sport, lacrosse is a fast-paced action and excitement across both amateur and professional leagues.

Taste your way through Canada 

Canada is home to a host of delicious dishes, both sweet and savoury, that reflect the country's diverse culinary influences. Whether you're dining in cosmopolitan cities like Toronto or Vancouver, or exploring quaint towns, Canada travel is as much about flavour as it is about scenery. Vegetarians and vegans won’t be short of options in Canada, with fresh produce available nation-wide and plant-based eateries on the rise in major cities.

Perhaps the most famous Canadian dish is poutine—a hearty hot chip dish smothered in gravy and topped with fresh cheese curds. Originally from Quebec, this comfort food is now available across the country, and it's particularly satisfying after a day on the slopes or a long hike.

Scrumptious Canadian dishes to try on your first visit

Here are some iconic dishes that top the list in any roundup of Canada travel tips for food lovers.

• Poutine: A quintessential Canadian dish of fries covered in gravy and topped with cheese curds. You’ll find variations, from classic to gourmet versions with extras like meat or sautéed mushrooms.
• Butter tarts: A beloved Canadian dessert, butter tarts are flaky pastries filled with a rich, sweet syrup and often made with nuts or raisins.
• BeaverTails: Not an actual tail, but a flat, fried dough pastry with toppings like cinnamon sugar, Nutella, or even crushed Oreos. These sweet snacks are a nostalgic part of Canadian tourism, especially popular during winter festivals.
• Tourtière: A savoury meat pie originating in Quebec, traditionally made with minced pork or beef and spiced with herbs. It’s especially popular during the holiday season and a comforting dish to seek out on your Canada travel itinerary.
• Caesars: Canada’s answer to the Bloody Mary, but with a twist! The Caesar is made with vodka, Clamato (tomato and clam juice), and a blend of spices. Often garnished with a celery stick, lime, and sometimes even a shrimp.

Exploring Canada by land

There’s no better way to explore every nook of Canada than by road. Travelling overland allows visitors to experience the region’s best sights and hidden gems, with the flexibility to detour as you go.

Many of the most iconic destinations, like Moraine Lake, are hundreds of kilometres from the nearest airport, making it impossible to fully appreciate them without the long, scenic drive through the Rockies. Inspiring Vacations’ tours Moraine Lake on the 17 Day Canadian Rockies Small Group Tour & Alaska Inside Passage Cruise.

Rail is another rewarding way to explore Canada, with the Rocky Mountaineer offering passengers panoramic views of rugged landscapes as it winds through the mountains. VIA Rail provides a variety of routes across the country, including the popular Canadian route between Toronto and Vancouver, which offers a stunning combination of cityscapes and majestic mountains. 

Travelling by road allows visitors to uncover hidden gems and scenic detours, which are often the highlights of any Canada tourism experience.

Top 5 Scenic roads and trains to experience in Canada

Plan your Canada travel itinerary and take in Canada’s stunning natural beauty with these iconic routes:

1. The Icefields Parkway (Banff to Jasper): One of the most scenic drives in the world, offering dramatic views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and jagged mountains. 
2. The Cabot Trail (Nova Scotia): A coastal route with sweeping views of cliffs, ocean, and forests, showcasing some of Canada's most rugged landscapes. It’s perfect for those seeking a slower, scenic pace.
3. Rocky Mountaineer (Vancouver to Banff): A luxurious train journey with panoramic windows, the Rocky Mountaineer train ride is a showpiece of western Canada tourism, offering some of the most breathtaking views of the Rockies. 
4. The Trans-Canada Highway: Stretching from east to west, this route gives travellers access to some of the most diverse landscapes, from mountains to oceans.
5. VIA Rail's Canadian Route (Toronto to Vancouver): A must-do for train enthusiasts, VIA Rail’s routes cover urban, rural, and mountainous landscapes across Canada's vast expanse. It’s a true bucket list entry for any Canada guide.

Essential travel tips for first-time visitors to Canada

Before you embark on your Canada travel adventure, keep these quick tips in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Plugs and voltage

• Canada uses Type A and B plugs, featuring two flat parallel prongs, or two flat prongs and a grounding pin.
• The standard voltage is 120V, with a frequency of 60Hz.
• Travellers coming from Australia, New Zealand and India will need a plug adapter; US travellers will not need a plug adapter when travelling to Canada.

Public toilets

Public restrooms are relatively uncommon in Canada. It's advisable to use facilities at roadside stops, fast food outlets, cafes, shopping centres, and public transport hubs.

Currency and money

• The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD).
• ATMs are widely available in cities and towns.
• Credit cards are accepted in most establishments. Remember to inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks or difficulties.
• Gratuities are customary in Canada. A tip of 15–20% is standard in restaurants. For exceptional service, consider tipping more. At bars, CA$1–CA$2 per drink is typical 

Language

• Canada has two official languages, English and French.
• French-speaking regions include the province of Quebec, especially in Montreal and Quebec City.
• In French-speaking areas, a basic greeting in French, such as bonjour (hello) or merci (thank you), is appreciated.

Ready to book your Canada adventure? Inspiring Vacations’ tours to the Great White North include visits to Lake Louise and the Rockies, Niagara Falls, Inside Passage Alaskan cruise, Quebec and more!