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Top 15 Canadian Cities to Visit

Discover Canada's Top Cities

Canada's vastness and diversity offer a plethora of destinations, each with its own unique attractions and charm. From the largest city to the biggest national park, and from the capital to cultural hubs, these cities are must-visits on your Canadian travel itinerary.

Explore the best cities in Canada for a memorable trip.

1. Toronto, Ontario

Toronto skyline at dusk

Toronto, Ontario's capital and Canada's largest city, is a vibrant metropolis teeming with iconic landmarks like the CN Tower, Toronto Island, Casa Loma, and the Toronto Zoo. It's also home to renowned museums such as the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Royal Ontario Museum, as well as seven professional sports teams. The city's diverse neighborhoods, like Little Italy and Chinatown, offer a world of culinary delights. Nature lovers can enjoy Lake Ontario's shores and High Park's greenery.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Toronto: Best Areas & Hotels

2. Quebec City, Quebec

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Quebec City

Quebec City's old-world charm is evident in its cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages. The French-speaking city boasts the historic Vieux-Québec, the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, and La Citadelle de Québec. Museums like the Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec and the Museum of Civilization offer cultural enrichment.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Quebec City: Best Areas & Hotels

3. Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is a picturesque city framed by mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Outdoor activities abound in Stanley Park, Kitsilano, and Pacific Spirit Park. The city's neighborhoods, including Gastown and Granville Island, are full of unique shops and eateries.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Vancouver: Best Areas & Hotels

4. Calgary, Alberta

Sunset in downtown Calgary

Calgary, known for the Calgary Stampede, is a city with a rich farming and ranching heritage. Attractions include Heritage Park Historical Village, the Calgary Tower, and Prince's Island Park. Calgary is also Canada's sunniest city, boasting 333 sunny days annually.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Calgary: Best Areas & Hotels

5. Ottawa, Ontario

Rideau Canal ice skating rink in Ottawa

Ottawa, Canada's capital, is steeped in history with the Parliament Building and numerous museums like the Canadian War Museum and the National Gallery of Canada. The city is also known for its festivals, including Canada Day and Winterlude.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Ottawa: Best Areas & Hotels

6. Montreal, Quebec

Old Montreal

Montreal, a historic city with French roots, is the world's second-largest French-speaking city. Old Montreal and the Old Port are must-visit areas, while the city's entertainment and arts districts offer endless activities.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Montreal

7. Victoria, British Columbia

Parliament Buildings in Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, with its British heritage and mild climate, is a charming city on Vancouver Island. Attractions include the Inner Harbour, Butchart Gardens, and the Royal BC Museum.

8. St. John's, Newfoundland

Colorful houses in St. John's, Newfoundland

St. John's, known for its colorful houses and coastal beauty, is a unique city with a distinct culture. Signal Hill and The Rooms museum are key historical sites.

9. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Charlottetown, the birthplace of Canadian Confederation, is rich in history and culture. The Confederation Centre of the Arts is a hub for the arts, and local cuisine highlights the island's seafood and potatoes.

10. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Summer in Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a youthful city with a high number of restaurants per capita. It boasts a vibrant arts scene and is known for its stunning skies.

11. Whitehorse, Yukon

Northern lights over Whitehorse

Whitehorse, a gateway to the north, offers a mix of history and adventure. The Takhini Hot Springs and Yukon Wildlife Preserve are nearby, and Northern Lights tours are a highlight.

12. Halifax, Nova Scotia

Aerial view of Halifax

Halifax is a maritime city with a walkable waterfront, historic sites like the Halifax Citadel, and a reputation for delicious seafood.

13. Winnipeg, Manitoba

Downtown Winnipeg

Winnipeg, the heart of the Canadian prairies, is home to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and a vibrant cultural scene.

14. Banff, Alberta

Banff Avenue in Banff at dusk

Banff is a picturesque town nestled in the Rocky Mountains within Banff National Park, offering outdoor adventures and stunning scenery.

15. Thunder Bay, Ontario

Thunder Bay, Ontario

Thunder Bay, with its historic Fort William and scenic waterfront, is a growing tourist destination in northern Ontario.