With its stunning natural landscapes and multicultural cities, Canada has built a reputation for being one of the best countries in the world to visit. It is the second largest country and sees more than 22 million international tourists arrive to see the sights each year.
One of the reasons for its popularity is the wealth of activities on offer for visitors, there is something for everyone to enjoy. For adventurers and nature lovers there is the vast wilderness to explore in the Rockies and Whistler. For those with a preference for the metropolitan, the city of Toronto and Niagara Falls have many opportunities, from retail therapy at major shopping destinations to spinning the reels on slots at world-famous casino venues.
We look at some of the must-visit areas of Canada and explore the top destinations to add to your itinerary for each.
Toronto
First up is the grand bustling metropolis of Toronto. Known best for its iconic skyline, cultural exploits and multicultural atmosphere, there are many ways to get around here. You might want to rent bicycles and take in the stunning views and city tourist attractions while you ride.
Walking can give you the best close ups of some of the most wonderful sights. Standing at over 500 meters tall, the famous CNN Tower is one to check out and from the top of the grand structure you will get panoramic views of Toronto and Lake Ontario.
For history buffs, there are plenty of museums and historical attractions to see. For example, the Royal Ontario Museum houses millions of artifacts. This museum showcases some of the very best art, culture and nature from across the ages. There are 40 exhibit and gallery spaces to wander through.
While in the city a trip to the Distillery District is highly recommended. The cobblestone streets are lined with 18th century quaint buildings, one of which was once an expansive whiskey distillery.
In the district there are more than 40 boutique stores and one of a kind shops, stop of here for some unique gifts to take back home for friends and family. There is also a plethora of dining options, from grab and go style coffee outlets to tapas bars and bakeries.
Manitoulin Island
Located in Lake Huron in the province of Ontario, Manitoulin Island is the largest freshwater island in the world. It is famous for its beautiful landscapes with rugged cliffs, lush green forests, clear blue lakes and serene beaches.
It is also an ideal stop on your trip if you would like to learn more about indigenous culture as you will find that different Anishinaabe First Nations communities are based here. If you are looking for outdoor adventures, you will not be disappointed by the lake and sea fishing opportunities on offer on the island. Kayaking, hiking and cycling are also favorite pastimes amongst the locals.
The Great Spirit Circle Trail provides guided tours, traditional craft workshops, storytelling and powwows. To see artifacts from the Islands long history a visit tour around the Assiginack Museum is certainly worthwhile.
The Rockies
The Rocky Mountains span from Canada across to the United States and are renowned for their natural beauty, wildlife and interesting outdoor pursuit opportunities. You should include the Rockies in your itinerary if you have an interest in diverse wildlife and breathtaking scenery.
The glacial lakes are one of the natural highlights and include beautiful turquoise waters at places such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. If you want to spot some of the country’s epic wildlife, here is the place to do it. Keep a close look out for bears, elk, wolves, deer and majestic birds of prey.
When visiting, be sure to be careful of the impact you have on the natural surroundings as parts of Banff, Jasper and the Rocky National Park are officially protected areas. These historical towns are also recommended places to stop, rest and dine on your way through the Rockies.
Whether you are visiting in summer or winter, there are a range of activities on offer in the Rockies, from skiing to snowboarding up in the mountains to water sports like parasailing on the lakes.
Niagara Falls
No tour of Canada would be complete without a stop off at the famous Niagara Falls. To get the best views in either the daytime or evening then it is worth going up in the Niagara Sky Wheel or taking a helicopter tour.
For the best photo opportunities there is the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens with its serene, well maintained gardens. You should also take time to visit the white water rapids and stand on the boardwalk to experience them up close.
Canada’s cities and regions offer something for everyone to enjoy. You are sure to have an unforgettable adventure in this beautiful and diverse destination.
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