The expanse of Canada's natural beauty, from mountains and glaciers to secluded lakes and forests, is almost unparalleled worldwide. But Canada's allure is not just the great outdoors, Canada has cosmopolitan cities that are clean, safe, friendly and multicultural. In fact, Canada repeatedly is lauded as one of the world's most livable countries. Whether your interests are river rafting or live theater, Canada won't disappoint.
1. Spectacular Canadian Cities
Although it's doubtful you'll get to all of them in one trip, the following cities are the most popular destinations for visitors to Canada.
Vancouver
Calgary
Niagara Falls
Toronto
Ottawa
Montreal
Quebec City
Halifax
Victoria
2. Canada's Natural Wonders
Few countries boast the number and range of natural wonders that Canada does. The following are some of Canada's most spectacular and popular natural attractions:
Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks
Dinosaur Provincial Park
Nahanni National Park Reserve
Cabot Trail
Niagara Falls
3. Affordability
Canada is an affordable vacation choice. Historically the Cdn$ is worth less than the US$, thus prices in Canada generally seem reasonable to travelers. The 2005 Mercer Worldwide Cost of Living Survey ranked Canadian cities among the most affordable. Toronto, even as the most expensive Canadian city, sits at number 82 out of the 100 most expensive cities, and Ottawa stands out as the most affordable city in North America.
4. Canada's Amazing Array of Outdoor Activities
One of the best reasons to visit Canada is to take advantage of the fabulous outdoors -- and there's a lot of it! We're happy to share our trails, mountains and lakes with visitors. Some of the most popular outdoor activities in Canada are:
Camping
Skiing / Snowboarding
Golfing
Fishing
Hiking, Mountain Biking, Climbing, Kayaking, Canoeing, Skiing, and Snowshoeing Trails across Canada.
5. Events & Festivals in Canada
Canadians know how to put on a party. Just check out any one of these popular Canadian events and festivals to find out how hospitable a group we really are:
Celebration of Light, Vancouver (Largest fireworks competition in the world)
The Calgary Stampede
Edmonton Folk Music Festival
The Toronto International Film Festival
Canadian Tulip Festival, Ottawa
Quebec Winter Carnival, Quebec City
Celtic Colours International Festival, Nova Scotia
6. Visit Canada Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall
Lots of Canadians head for warmer climates in the winter, but while they're leaving the country, skiiers and other winter enthusiasts from around the world are pouring in. Canada is a famous "northern" destination, yet it's not all igloos and snowcaps. Spring, summer and fall have their own charms and add to Canada's appeal.
7. Canada's French Heritage
French culture remains a prominent part of Canada, mostly in Quebec, but also in Ontario and the Maritime provinces. Canada is officially bilingual, although it's certainly not necessary for tourists to speak French. Settled by the French in the 1600s, Quebec, is where visitors can visit Montreal and the provincial capital, Quebec City. Quebec remains very European in feel. Its rich history and distinct heritage make it a unique tourist destination.
8. Canada: Fun for the Whole Family
Canada's laid-back attitude and huge variety of fun outdoor activities and events make it a fantastic travel destination for families travelling with children. From hiking or skiing / snowboarding to visiting Quebec Winter Carnival or the The Calgary Stampede, a Canadian vacation with kids is good fun for the whole family.
9. Diversity
Diverse cultures, climates and landscape make Canada a destination to suit any interest. Canada is a country of immigrants and has a policy of encouraging diversity. Thus, urban hubs feature a range of ethnic neigbourhoods, restaurants, and shops. In addition to rich and varied urban centres, Canada's natural environment is one of the most beautiful in the world. From pristine coastlines to rugged mountains and sparkling lakes, Canada's geography inspires awe coast to coast.
10. Interesting Man-Made Attractions in Canada
Canada's natural beauty is a given and the country's natural wonders are many, but Canada also features interesting man-made attractions. These include architectural feats, such as the CN Tower; historic sites, including Quebec City -- the only walled city north of Mexico -- and outstanding cultural attractions that include world-class museums and galleries.
TORONTO ATTRACTION
1. The Eaton Center
The Eaton Centre is a bright and airy shopping mall in the heart of Toronto's downtown that houses more than 250 stores. The stores will appeal to the budget conscious and spendthrifts alike. Along with the CN Tower, the Eaton Centre is the most popular tourist attraction in Toronto. More than just a place to shop, the four-level, glass domed Eaton Centre is of architectural interest and features a huge Canadian geese mobile, Flight Stop, designed by artist Michael Snow.
2. The CN Tower
Stick a really tall building in the middle of a city and they will come. At 1,815 feet the CN Tower has lost its title as the tallest free standing structure in the world, but still attracts millions of tourists looking for a bird's eye view of Toronto and the surrounding areas. A glass elevator whisks you to the 1,122 foot high indoor/outdoor observation deck where a portion of the floor is transparent. Instead of buying your admission ticket, you could also make a reservation at the tower's top-floor restaurant to get the view.
3. Casa Loma
For history or architecture buffs, Casa Loma is an interesting visit. Built by wealthy Toronto businessman Sir Henry Pellatt in the early 1900s, Casa Loma, similar to Hearst Castle in Calfornia, represents one man's architectural dream. In the case of Casa Loma, however, Pellat's dream went awry and contributed to his downfall. Notable for its location proudly overlooking the city, the "House on the Hill" boasted many modern-day conveniences, such as central vac and an elevator. The Casa Loma building also was used as a location shoot for the 2002 movie Chicago.
4. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
Even if you don't step inside the ROM , it's worth checking out the bizarre, jagged glass exterior that tends to either delight or offend.
With more than 40 galleries of art, archaeology and natural science, the ROM offers up a world of interest and fun. The diverse ROM galleries feature one of the world's finest collections of artefacts from China, a more than six-storey tall totem pole and much more. A discovery gallery at the ROM and other interactive exhibits mean everyone's senses get a workout and kids stay interested.
5. Centre Island
Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Toronto to lakeside charm. Centre Island is one of a series of small islands that comprise the largest urban car-free community in North America (some service vehicles are permitted). Centre Island, also called Toronto Island, offers a place for recreation and relaxation and features an amusement park, recreation areas, beaches, a yacht club, and restaurants.
6. The Distillery District
The Distillery Historic District is a great place to spend a few hours if you're in downtown Toronto and want to get away from the usual downtown stuff: there's not a Starbucks or McDonalds in sight. This pedestrian-only village is set amidst fabulous heritage architecture and is devoted to promoting arts and culture. The area also features a wellness centre, plenty of cafés, restaurants and pubs.
7. Yorkville
Yorkville is a charming anomaly amidst Toronto high rises and shopping malls. Tucked into a pocket of downtown, the quaint Victorian architecture in Yorkville houses dozens of restaurants, boutiques and art galleries. The dining and shopping is upscale and the galleries represent some of the finest Canadian and international artists. Many celebrities have been spotted strolling the sidewalks of Yorkville, especially during the Toronto International Film Festival.
8. Hockey Hall of Fame
Not everyone is a hockey fan (a fact that Canadians find hard to believe), but the Hockey Hall of Fame is an outstanding facility, full of interactive exhibits that put kids or adults in the heat of NHL action. The Broadcast Pods let you call the action of some of the most famous hockey games, including the 1972 Canada / Russia series: "Henderson shoots, he scores." Also featured is a replica NHL dressing room (minus the smell), a trophy room, and of course a gift shop.
9. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
The AGO houses an impressive collection of more than 40,000 works, making it the 10th largest art museum in North America. The AGO is a superb document of Canadian art heritage but also features masterworks from around the world, spanning 100 AD to the present and housed in a stunning Frank Gehry building.
10. Chinatown
Toronto has the second largest Chinatown in North America. People will find bargains on exotic trinkets, jewellery, clothing and household items. Plus, of course, where there's a bustling Chinatown, there's delicious food, and Toronto's Chinatown is no exception. There are dozens, maybe hundreds, of restaurants serving not just authentic Chinese, but also Vietnamese and other Asian fare.
1. Spectacular Canadian Cities
Although it's doubtful you'll get to all of them in one trip, the following cities are the most popular destinations for visitors to Canada.
Vancouver
Calgary
Niagara Falls
Toronto
Ottawa
Montreal
Quebec City
Halifax
Victoria
2. Canada's Natural Wonders
Few countries boast the number and range of natural wonders that Canada does. The following are some of Canada's most spectacular and popular natural attractions:
Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks
Dinosaur Provincial Park
Nahanni National Park Reserve
Cabot Trail
Niagara Falls
3. Affordability
Canada is an affordable vacation choice. Historically the Cdn$ is worth less than the US$, thus prices in Canada generally seem reasonable to travelers. The 2005 Mercer Worldwide Cost of Living Survey ranked Canadian cities among the most affordable. Toronto, even as the most expensive Canadian city, sits at number 82 out of the 100 most expensive cities, and Ottawa stands out as the most affordable city in North America.
4. Canada's Amazing Array of Outdoor Activities
One of the best reasons to visit Canada is to take advantage of the fabulous outdoors -- and there's a lot of it! We're happy to share our trails, mountains and lakes with visitors. Some of the most popular outdoor activities in Canada are:
Camping
Skiing / Snowboarding
Golfing
Fishing
Hiking, Mountain Biking, Climbing, Kayaking, Canoeing, Skiing, and Snowshoeing Trails across Canada.
5. Events & Festivals in Canada
Canadians know how to put on a party. Just check out any one of these popular Canadian events and festivals to find out how hospitable a group we really are:
Celebration of Light, Vancouver (Largest fireworks competition in the world)
The Calgary Stampede
Edmonton Folk Music Festival
The Toronto International Film Festival
Canadian Tulip Festival, Ottawa
Quebec Winter Carnival, Quebec City
Celtic Colours International Festival, Nova Scotia
6. Visit Canada Winter, Spring, Summer or Fall
Lots of Canadians head for warmer climates in the winter, but while they're leaving the country, skiiers and other winter enthusiasts from around the world are pouring in. Canada is a famous "northern" destination, yet it's not all igloos and snowcaps. Spring, summer and fall have their own charms and add to Canada's appeal.
7. Canada's French Heritage
French culture remains a prominent part of Canada, mostly in Quebec, but also in Ontario and the Maritime provinces. Canada is officially bilingual, although it's certainly not necessary for tourists to speak French. Settled by the French in the 1600s, Quebec, is where visitors can visit Montreal and the provincial capital, Quebec City. Quebec remains very European in feel. Its rich history and distinct heritage make it a unique tourist destination.
8. Canada: Fun for the Whole Family
Canada's laid-back attitude and huge variety of fun outdoor activities and events make it a fantastic travel destination for families travelling with children. From hiking or skiing / snowboarding to visiting Quebec Winter Carnival or the The Calgary Stampede, a Canadian vacation with kids is good fun for the whole family.
9. Diversity
Diverse cultures, climates and landscape make Canada a destination to suit any interest. Canada is a country of immigrants and has a policy of encouraging diversity. Thus, urban hubs feature a range of ethnic neigbourhoods, restaurants, and shops. In addition to rich and varied urban centres, Canada's natural environment is one of the most beautiful in the world. From pristine coastlines to rugged mountains and sparkling lakes, Canada's geography inspires awe coast to coast.
10. Interesting Man-Made Attractions in Canada
Canada's natural beauty is a given and the country's natural wonders are many, but Canada also features interesting man-made attractions. These include architectural feats, such as the CN Tower; historic sites, including Quebec City -- the only walled city north of Mexico -- and outstanding cultural attractions that include world-class museums and galleries.
TORONTO ATTRACTION
1. The Eaton Center
The Eaton Centre is a bright and airy shopping mall in the heart of Toronto's downtown that houses more than 250 stores. The stores will appeal to the budget conscious and spendthrifts alike. Along with the CN Tower, the Eaton Centre is the most popular tourist attraction in Toronto. More than just a place to shop, the four-level, glass domed Eaton Centre is of architectural interest and features a huge Canadian geese mobile, Flight Stop, designed by artist Michael Snow.
2. The CN Tower
Stick a really tall building in the middle of a city and they will come. At 1,815 feet the CN Tower has lost its title as the tallest free standing structure in the world, but still attracts millions of tourists looking for a bird's eye view of Toronto and the surrounding areas. A glass elevator whisks you to the 1,122 foot high indoor/outdoor observation deck where a portion of the floor is transparent. Instead of buying your admission ticket, you could also make a reservation at the tower's top-floor restaurant to get the view.
3. Casa Loma
For history or architecture buffs, Casa Loma is an interesting visit. Built by wealthy Toronto businessman Sir Henry Pellatt in the early 1900s, Casa Loma, similar to Hearst Castle in Calfornia, represents one man's architectural dream. In the case of Casa Loma, however, Pellat's dream went awry and contributed to his downfall. Notable for its location proudly overlooking the city, the "House on the Hill" boasted many modern-day conveniences, such as central vac and an elevator. The Casa Loma building also was used as a location shoot for the 2002 movie Chicago.
4. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
Even if you don't step inside the ROM , it's worth checking out the bizarre, jagged glass exterior that tends to either delight or offend.
With more than 40 galleries of art, archaeology and natural science, the ROM offers up a world of interest and fun. The diverse ROM galleries feature one of the world's finest collections of artefacts from China, a more than six-storey tall totem pole and much more. A discovery gallery at the ROM and other interactive exhibits mean everyone's senses get a workout and kids stay interested.
5. Centre Island
Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Toronto to lakeside charm. Centre Island is one of a series of small islands that comprise the largest urban car-free community in North America (some service vehicles are permitted). Centre Island, also called Toronto Island, offers a place for recreation and relaxation and features an amusement park, recreation areas, beaches, a yacht club, and restaurants.
6. The Distillery District
The Distillery Historic District is a great place to spend a few hours if you're in downtown Toronto and want to get away from the usual downtown stuff: there's not a Starbucks or McDonalds in sight. This pedestrian-only village is set amidst fabulous heritage architecture and is devoted to promoting arts and culture. The area also features a wellness centre, plenty of cafés, restaurants and pubs.
7. Yorkville
Yorkville is a charming anomaly amidst Toronto high rises and shopping malls. Tucked into a pocket of downtown, the quaint Victorian architecture in Yorkville houses dozens of restaurants, boutiques and art galleries. The dining and shopping is upscale and the galleries represent some of the finest Canadian and international artists. Many celebrities have been spotted strolling the sidewalks of Yorkville, especially during the Toronto International Film Festival.
8. Hockey Hall of Fame
Not everyone is a hockey fan (a fact that Canadians find hard to believe), but the Hockey Hall of Fame is an outstanding facility, full of interactive exhibits that put kids or adults in the heat of NHL action. The Broadcast Pods let you call the action of some of the most famous hockey games, including the 1972 Canada / Russia series: "Henderson shoots, he scores." Also featured is a replica NHL dressing room (minus the smell), a trophy room, and of course a gift shop.
9. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
The AGO houses an impressive collection of more than 40,000 works, making it the 10th largest art museum in North America. The AGO is a superb document of Canadian art heritage but also features masterworks from around the world, spanning 100 AD to the present and housed in a stunning Frank Gehry building.
10. Chinatown
Toronto has the second largest Chinatown in North America. People will find bargains on exotic trinkets, jewellery, clothing and household items. Plus, of course, where there's a bustling Chinatown, there's delicious food, and Toronto's Chinatown is no exception. There are dozens, maybe hundreds, of restaurants serving not just authentic Chinese, but also Vietnamese and other Asian fare.
