Canada enchants travelers from all over the world. Its unique landscapes, modern cities, and immense cultural richness make it a dream destination. But with so much to see, planning a trip can be a real challenge.

What places are worth visiting? Where should you start?

In this article, we list 10 of the most spectacular tourist destinations in the country, along with key tips for planning your trip—from visa requirements to saving money.

Tourist Destinations in Canada: What to Visit and How to Plan Your Trip

Top 10 Places to Visit in Canada

Canada is considered one of the most beautiful countries in the world for many reasons. This vast and diverse country offers nature, culture, adventure, and places full of personality.

That said, we suggest considering these 10 tourist destinations in Canada for your next adventure:

10. Banff National Park

In the province of Alberta and surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, you’ll find Banff National Park. It was the most visited park in Canada during 2022–2023, known for its postcard-worthy scenery, turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, and endless forests.

It’s one of the best places to visit in Canada in winter—you can ski or ice skate on Lake Louise. In summer, it's popular with visitors who prefer hiking or cycling the trails.

The town of Banff offers accommodations, restaurants, and hot springs to relax after a day in the mountains.

9. Toronto

Toronto is one of those Canadian tourist destinations you won’t forget.

Its most iconic symbol is the CN Tower, with an observation deck that offers spectacular views of Lake Ontario and the city skyline. You can walk across its glass floor or dine in its rotating restaurant with a 360° view.

In this vibrant city, there’s plenty to see and do:

• Neighborhoods like the Distillery District or Chinatown.

• The Art Gallery of Ontario.

• The Gooderham Building and St. Lawrence Market.

Toronto is definitely a must-visit in Canada.

8. Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is another top destination in Canada for nature lovers. It’s the largest park in the Canadian Rockies and more remote and peaceful than Banff.

This park has it all: snowy mountains, glacier-fed lakes, waterfalls, and even grizzly bears roaming the wilderness. One of its biggest highlights is the Athabasca Glacier, stretching 6 km long.

The town of Jasper is small but cozy—perfect as a base for exploring this natural treasure.

Recommended if you're seeking adventure… and a bit of adrenaline.

7. Quebec

Quebec was part of France until 1763, and that past is reflected in its cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and majestic cathedrals.

The iconic Château Frontenac, straight out of a fairytale, dominates the landscape of Old Quebec. You can visit it without staying overnight, but the best views are from nearby lookouts.

If you're traveling in winter, don’t miss the famous Quebec Winter Carnival—one of the country’s most important celebrations. And just 15 km away, you’ll find Montmorency Falls, 30 meters taller than Niagara.

6. Montreal

If you're exploring Quebec, use Google Travel to plan a route to Montreal, a hub for art, design, and gastronomy. It’s also famously the hometown of Leonard Cohen.

A walk through Old Montreal feels like stepping into a European film set—full of history and great vibes. And if you're after local flavors, stop at La Banquise, a restaurant known for serving some of the best traditional poutines.

Don’t miss the Le Plateau Mont-Royal district, with trendy cafés and colorful facades.

5. Whistler

Whistler is the capital of skiing and snowboarding—so it’s a top place to visit in Canada during winter. Its 200+ slopes across Whistler and Blackcomb mountains make it a snow lover’s paradise.

But Whistler isn’t just for winter. In summer, it also offers hiking and mountain biking trails.

The charming Whistler Village adds great food, shops, and hotels, making it a year-round destination.

4. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the most iconic destinations in North America. While you can visit them from the U.S. side, the view from Canada is far more impressive. Not just because of the horseshoe-shaped falls, but also thanks to boat tours that bring you up close to the thunderous water.

Don’t miss Niagara Falls town, about 22 km away. The region is also known for its vineyards and its famous ice wine, a sweet wine made from frozen grapes.

3. Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are a natural spectacle that draws many tourists—and they can be seen in Canada.

These dancing lights illuminate the night sky in green, violet, and pink tones and appear at different times of the year, depending on the weather.

One of the best places to see them is Whitehorse, where optimal conditions usually occur from October to March. Other top destinations to experience this wonder include Yukon, Yellowknife, Churchill, Iqaluit, and Kuujjuaq.

If you’re after something truly magical, the Northern Lights deserve a spot on your Canada itinerary.

2. Vancouver

On the west coast of Canada you find Vancouver, one of the cities with the highest cost of living in the country. But it also has it all: sea, mountains, culture and an enviable quality of life.

Here’s what you can do:

• Cosmopolitan, green, and vibrant—perfect for exploring on foot or by bike.

• Visit Stanley Park, the country’s largest urban park.

• Wander Gastown, a charming neighborhood with a steam clock.

• Explore Granville Island Market, ideal for trying local treats.

Vancouver will win you over with no grand introduction needed.

1. Yoho National Park

We round out our top 10 tourist destinations in Canada with this hidden gem in the Rockies.

Though it’s less famous than Banff or Jasper, it will surprise you with equally breathtaking landscapes.

Here you’ll find natural wonders like:

• Emerald Lake, with its striking emerald-green waters.

• The towering Takakkaw Falls.

• The picturesque Lake O’Hara.

• The Natural Bridge, a rock formation carved by the Kicking Horse River.

This park promises raw nature and unforgettable moments.

Those were our picks—now you just need to know how to plan a trip to Canada based on your preferences.

Tips for Planning Your Trip to Canada

Some key tips for traveling to Canada:

• Visa and passport: Canada requires a visa for Mexican citizens. The process can take some time, so apply early and make sure your passport is valid.

• Arriving by air is most common: The airports in Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal receive international flights daily. Airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, Lufthansa, and KLM offer frequent routes.

• Estimated budget: Plan for around $150–$175 CAD per day. You can save by using public transport, staying in hostels or campgrounds, and choosing fast food or small local spots.

• Best time to travel: May to September is ideal for good weather and natural scenery. December to February is winter season—great for skiing and holiday markets.

• Travel insurance: Not mandatory, but essential. Medical care for non-residents isn’t free, even in emergencies. It’s best to have insurance that covers medical costs and other unexpected expenses during your stay.

• National Park Pass: Consider getting the annual Discovery Pass, which grants access to over 80 parks.

• Create a detailed itinerary: Before traveling, decide which cities you'll visit, how long you'll stay in each, and what attractions you want to see.

Jotting down routes, activities, and timings helps optimize your trip, adjust your budget, and avoid surprises.

As an extra travel tip to save money, we suggest using DolarCard, a widely accepted Mastercard. It works with digital dollars so you can spend without worrying about currency conversion fees.

You just have to request it through DolarApp and keep it topped up with digital dollars.