Moraine Lake, Canada
Moraine Lake
Its waters are the most amazing colour, a vivid shade of turquoise that changes in intensity through the summer as the glaciers melt.

Moraine Lake

Its waters are the most amazing colour, a vivid shade of turquoise that changes in intensity through the...

Canada's Top 25 Beautiful Places to Visit
Banff, Canada
Banff
Banff is a resort town in the province of Alberta, located within Banff National Park. The peaks of Mt. Rundle and Mt. Cascade, part of the Rocky Mountains, dominate its skyline.

Banff

Banff is a resort town in the province of Alberta, located within Banff National Park. The peaks of Mt. Rundle...

Niagara Falls, Canada
Niagara Falls
The Canadian side of Niagara Falls located between Goat Island and Table Rock is known as the Horseshoe Falls.

Niagara Falls

The Canadian side of Niagara Falls located between Goat Island and Table Rock is known as the Horseshoe Falls.

Toronto View, Canada
Toronto
Scenic views of Toronto

Toronto

Scenic views of Toronto

Snowboarding in Whistler, Canada
Snowboarding in Whistler
Snowboarding in the expansive Whistler Blackcomb range

Snowboarding in Whistler

Snowboarding in the expansive Whistler Blackcomb range

Canada flag

Canada Travel Information

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Key facts

Capital:

Ottawa

Location:

Northern North America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean on the east, North Pacific Ocean on the west, and the Arctic Ocean on the north, north of the conterminous US

Currency:

Canadian dollars (CAD)

Area:

9,984,670 sq km

Population:

37,943,231 (July 2021 est.)

Languages:

English (official) 58.7%, French (official) 22%, Punjabi 1.4%, Italian 1.3%, Spanish 1.3%, German 1.3%, Cantonese 1.2%, Tagalog 1.2%, Arabic 1.1%, other 10.5% (2011 est.)

Religion:

Catholic 39%, Protestant 20.3%, Orthodox 1.6%, other Christian 6.3%, Muslim 3.2%, Hindu 1.5%, Sikh 1.4%, Buddhist 1.1%, Jewish 1%, other 0.6%, none 23.9% (2011 est.)

TimeZone:

UTC-5

Tel Code:

+1

Things to Do

  • 1. Banff National Park

    Explore the stunning beauty of Banff National Park, located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Hike through lush forests, kayak on turquoise lakes, and spot wildlife such as bears and elk.

  • 2. Niagara Falls

    Witness the awe-inspiring beauty and power of Niagara Falls, a collection of three waterfalls located on the border of Ontario and New York. Take a boat tour to get up close to the falls or enjoy the view from observation decks.

  • 3. Whistler Ski Resort

    Hit the slopes at Whistler Ski Resort, one of the top ski destinations in the world. Enjoy world-class skiing and snowboarding, luxurious accommodations, and vibrant nightlife in the charming alpine village.

  • 4. Old Quebec City

    Step back in time and explore the historic streets of Old Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the charming architecture, visit the iconic Chateau Frontenac, and indulge in French-Canadian cuisine at local restaurants.

  • 5. Vancouver Island

    Discover the natural beauty of Vancouver Island, a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore the rugged coastline, hike through old-growth forests, and spot wildlife such as whales and sea otters.

  • 6. Churchill Polar Bears

    Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to Churchill, Manitoba, known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World. Witness the migration of polar bears, take a tundra buggy tour, and learn about the unique ecosystem of the Arctic.

  • 7. CN Tower

    Experience breathtaking views of Toronto from the CN Tower, one of the tallest freestanding structures in the world. Take a glass elevator to the observation deck, dine at the revolving restaurant, and even try EdgeWalk, a thrilling hands-free walk around the tower's ledge.

  • 8. Montreal Jazz Festival

    Immerse yourself in the vibrant music scene at the Montreal Jazz Festival, the largest jazz festival in the world. Enjoy performances by renowned musicians, explore the festival's outdoor stages, and indulge in delicious food at the street fair.

  • 9. Canadian Rockies Road Trip

    Embark on an epic road trip through the Canadian Rockies, from Banff to Jasper National Park. Marvel at towering mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, and breathtaking glaciers along the famous Icefields Parkway.

  • 10. Prince Edward Island

    Visit the picturesque Prince Edward Island, known for its stunning beaches and charming seaside villages. Explore the birthplace of Anne of Green Gables, indulge in fresh seafood, and experience the island's vibrant arts and culture scene.

Weather

Canada has a diverse climate with different regions having different weather patterns and temperature.

Western Canada

  • Western provinces such as British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan have a wide range of climates, from coastal temperate rainforest to the semi-arid grasslands of the interior.
  • Summer, which runs from June to August, is the warmest season, with temperatures averaging around 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.
  • Winter, which runs from December to February, is the coldest season, with temperatures averaging around -10 to -5 degrees Celsius (14 to 23 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day, with snowfall and cold winds.

Central Canada

  • Central provinces such as Ontario and Quebec have four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter.
  • Summer, which runs from June to August, is the warmest season, with temperatures averaging around 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.
  • Winter, which runs from December to February, is the coldest season, with temperatures averaging around -10 to -5 degrees Celsius (14 to 23 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day, with snowfall and cold winds.

Eastern Canada

  • Eastern provinces such as Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Newfoundland and Labrador have a maritime climate, with milder winters and cooler summers.
  • Summer, which runs from June to August, is the warmest season, with temperatures averaging around 15-20 degrees Celsius (59-68 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day.
  • Winter, which runs from December to February, is the coldest season, with temperatures averaging around -10 to -5 degrees Celsius (14 to 23 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day, with snowfall and cold winds.

It's worth noting that the weather in Canada can be unpredictable and can change rapidly, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast and pack appropriate clothing. Additionally, the peak tourism season in Canada varies depending on the location, for example snow activities in Winter and hiking in Summer.

Food

Poutine

Poutine

Poutine is a popular Canadian dish made of crispy French fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich, savory gravy. It's a comforting and indulgent dish that's beloved across Canada, and you can find variations with different toppings such as pulled pork or mushrooms.

Butter Tarts

Butter Tarts

Butter tarts are a classic Canadian treat made with a flaky pastry shell filled with a sweet and gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs. Sometimes, raisins or nuts are added for extra texture and flavor. They're a staple dessert at Canadian gatherings and celebrations.

Nanaimo Bars

Nanaimo Bars

Nanaimo bars are a delectable layered dessert named after the city of Nanaimo in British Columbia. The three layers consist of a crumbly, nutty base, a creamy custard-flavored filling, and a glossy chocolate topping. They are a quintessential Canadian treat.

BeaverTails

BeaverTails

BeaverTails, or Queues de Castor in French, are a beloved Canadian indulgence characterized by their unique elongated, pastry shape. These fried dough pastries are often dusted with cinnamon sugar and can be served with various toppings like chocolate hazelnut spread or fruit compote.

Montreal-Style Bagels

Montreal-Style Bagels

Montreal-style bagels are smaller, denser, and sweeter than their New York counterparts. They are boiled in honey-sweetened water and baked in wood-fired ovens, resulting in a chewy texture and slightly sweet flavor. They are often served with cream cheese and smoked salmon.

Accommodation

There are a variety of accommodation options available for visitors to Canada, including:

Hotels

From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, there are hotels available in most major cities and tourist destinations.

Guesthouses

These are a more budget-friendly option and can be found in many smaller towns and villages.

Vacation Rentals

Renting a vacation rental such as apartments and houses that can be rented on a short-term basis is a popular option for visitors to Canada, particularly for those traveling with families or groups of friends.

Hostels

Hostels are popular in major cities and tourist destinations, and can be a good budget-friendly option for solo travelers or backpackers.

Campsites

Many national parks and other remote areas in Canada have camping facilities for visitors, which can be a great way to experience the natural beauty of the country.

Resorts and Lodges

Many remote and wilderness areas in Canada offer resorts and lodges that provide comfortable accommodation, as well as access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing.

It's important to note that depending on the location and type of accommodation, prices and availability may vary greatly. It's always a good idea to research and book in advance, especially during peak tourism season.

Transportation

There are several transportation options when visiting Canada, including:

Air travel

  • Canada has a well-developed air transportation system, with many major airports located in cities across the country. These airports offer direct flights to and from various international destinations. Additionally, there are several domestic airlines that offer flights between major cities and regional areas within Canada.

Ground transportation

  • Public transportation such as buses, trains, and subways are available in major cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver.
  • Rental cars and campervans are popular options for road trips and exploring regional areas.
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also widely available in most major cities.

Water transportation

  • Ferries are available for travel between islands and along the coast, particularly in areas such as British Columbia and the Maritimes.

Other

  • Bicycles and e-bikes are also available for rent in some cities, such as Toronto and Montreal.
  • Walking and hiking are also popular options for exploring natural areas and national parks.

It's important to note that transportation options and availability may vary depending on the location in Canada. It's a good idea to research and plan transportation in advance, especially if you're planning to visit more remote areas.

Money

Currency

  • The currency in Canada is the Canadian dollar (CAD).

Cash And Cards

  • Credit cards are widely accepted in Canada, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. However, it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or for places that may not accept cards.
  • ATMs are readily available in Canada, and most accept international debit and credit cards. However, it's advisable to notify your bank before traveling to Canada to avoid any issues with card usage.

ATMs

  • ATMs are readily available in Canada, and most accept international debit and credit cards. However, it's advisable to notify your bank before traveling to Canada to avoid any issues with card usage.

Tipping

  • Tipping is customary in Canada, and it's expected to leave a tip of 15-20% at restaurants.
  • For other services like taxis, hotel staff, and tour guides, a tip of 10-15% is appreciated.

Cost Of Living

  • The cost of living in Canada can vary depending on the city and region. Generally, major cities like Toronto and Vancouver have a higher cost of living compared to smaller towns.
  • Accommodation, transportation, and food expenses can be relatively expensive in urban areas.

Scams

  • Be cautious of scams targeting tourists, such as fake charity requests or street scams.
  • Avoid sharing personal and financial information with strangers, and be wary of unsolicited offers or deals that seem too good to be true.