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Enjoy Canada in the sunshine

Canada is a popular tourist destination 365 days a year. There’s really no bad time to visit this exquisite country. That being said, some hotspots lend themselves better to certain seasons. So the best time to go to Canada depends on what you want to do when you get there.

One of the most popular times to fly to Canada is during the summer (June – August). With warm temperatures and long days, summer brings ample camping, hiking, rock-climbing and water sports opportunities. It’s also the prime time for hitting up Banff National Park and the Rocky Mountains.

If you’re a clear sky chaser but want to avoid those summer crowds, then a trip to Canada during the spring may be just the answer.

The weather is still mild but there are fewer crowds to contend with. Spring offers the perfect conditions for some city strolling or museum and gallery hopping to your heart's content.

Plan a winter or autumn break

From mighty falls to wild mountainous landscapes, to glistening city skyscrapers, Canada is a country that has it all – and then some. It’s a real bucket-list destination that’s as vast as it is beautiful.

Thrill-seekers will adore Canada in the winter and those looking to ski, snowboard or ice skate their way around the country will have no trouble getting their fix.

Home to world-renowned spots like Whistler, Lake Louise and Banff – Canada in the winter lives up to its fame. January is also one of the cheapest times to book tickets to Canada.

Autumn - or fall as they call it in Canada – is another great time to visit. Not only can you find a plethora of local festivals and cultural events during this season, but you’ll find the country basking in golden glory as leaves turn striking shades of red, orange and auburn.

Exploring the West of Canada

Canada is a large and diverse country, offering a wealth of stunning sights, bustling towns and popular attractions. This means the list of places to visit is almost infinite! Here are just some of the most popular spots in the West:

Whistler: This picturesque winter wonderland brings adventure and excitement by the bucketload. Ski, snowboard or explore the stunning scenery on foot and at the end of it all, unwind in its charming alpine village that looks like it’s been plucked straight from the brochure.

Vancouver: Another world-class contender, Vancouver seamlessly blends urban life with the thrill of outdoor adventure. Unearth the city’s bustling downtown district, indulge in local eateries or hit up Granville Island for shopping and sightseeing. For a dose of nature, take on Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver.

Travel around East Canada

The east of the country also has plenty of gems, just waiting to be discovered:

Toronto: Toronto is a city that has it all. Take a stroll through its charming neighbourhoods, catch a game at the iconic Rogers Centre, or fawn over the striking views from the CN Tower. Expect lively locals, endless possibilities and an infectious energy.

Banff National Park: Found in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Discover glacier-fed lakes, soaring peaks and rugged hiking trails.

Montreal: With its thriving arts and culture scene, world-class eateries and unique charm, Montreal is a city that effortlessly blends the old with the new. Iconic landmarks include the Notre-Dame Basilica, Jacques Cartier Bridge and Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal.

Niagara Falls: These mighty falls are synonymous with Canada, and they don’t disappoint. Witness first-hand the awe-inspiring power of the cascading waterfalls as you tour the iconic site.

Sport in Canada

It’s no secret that sports make up an essential part of Canadian culture and identity.

Ice hockey is the national sport and is largely considered Canada’s domain. Games are a staple pastime in Canada, and with many of the country’s top players adored both locally and nationally, it’s clear that the sport has captured the hearts of the nation.

The Canadian Football League (CFL) is another beloved pastime in Canada, with fans flocking to games and team rivalries running deep. The country is also home to some of the world’s most challenging golf courses and for this reason, it attracts major players from across the globe.

Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan or just want to soak up the sports scene’s infectious atmosphere – you’ll be sure to find your fix in Canada.

Wildlife in Canada

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, wildlife photographer or simply looking to experience the majesty of Canada’s impressive wildlife, then this is an ideal destination for you!

In the Rocky Mountains and forests, you’ll be sure to find the nation's national sweetheart, the beaver, alongside moose, caribou, elk and the Canadian lynx. And of course, the renowned grizzly bear and black bear set up home here, too.

In the Pacific and Atlantic oceans lie majestic orcas, humpback and beluga whales, alongside smaller creatures like sea lions and sea otters.

Further north, Canada’s arctic regions are home to some of the most iconic creatures on the planet, including the mighty polar bear, arctic foxes and reindeer. Meanwhile, birdwatchers will delight in the presence of bald eagles, ospreys and the Atlantic puffin.

Inner-city travel in Canada

When it comes to inner-city travel, public transport is often the easiest and most cost-effective way to get around Canada. Major cities boast accessible public transport services, made up of buses, trains, trams and subways.

Taxi and ride-sharing services, such as Uber, are also available in urban areas, though they can be more expensive.

Canada’s big players, such as Toronto and Vancouver are best explored on foot or by bicycle.

With pedestrian-friendly streets, accessible cycling routes and plenty of attractions within a short distance of one another, this is a safe, convenient and eco-friendly way of getting around. Plus, what better way to immerse yourself in all the cities have to offer?

Travelling within Canada

Canada may be vast but getting around is actually pretty easy.

The Trans-Canada Highway connects all ten provinces in Canada, and many UK travellers opt to rent a car if they want to explore some of the suburban and natural areas in the country.

Snowy and icy conditions can make driving tricky in winter. However, Canada is well prepared with snow ploughs and salt trucks on hand. Winter tyres are also mandatory in many regions.

We recommend familiarising yourself with the Canadian Highway Safety Code before driving around Canada.

The country is also armed with an extensive network of public transport systems and accessible highways, as well as domestic airports. Trains are popular for travelling between major cities, but long-distance bus services are an affordable alternative for cross-country travel too.