The Getaway
Fantastic Canadian Destinations for Summer and Winter

When you think of Canada, it's always about stunning landscapes and gorgeous scenery. Not only is Canada considered one of the safest countries in the world, but every time you visit, you’ll find yourself surrounded by some of the friendliest people around.

From astonishingly beautiful beaches in the summer to breathtaking winter wonderlands, you’ll never run out of picture-perfect destinations in Canada.

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01 Vancouver

Stanley Park, Vancouver BC mysticenergy / Getty Images

Some people lovingly call Vancouver “the Hollywood of the north,” and for good reason. After Los Angeles, Vancouver is the second most popular spot in North America for TV production. The picturesque city nestles itself between the Pacific Ocean and the North Shore Mountains and offers a blend of old, new, and unique. Take in some nature at Stanley Park or visit the Granville Island Public Market to grab some fresh veggies for a scenic picnic.

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02 Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls around Sunset, captured in New York, USA looking towards Ontario, Canada. Allard1 / Getty Images

If you love nature and getting outdoors, you’ll love Niagara Falls, Ontario. Located on the Western Bank of the Niagara River, Niagara Falls is a perfect destination for summer or winter visitation. While the crowds are heavy in the summer, winter offers the perfect destination to see the falls draped in icy glory and enjoy unique access to locations like Journey Behind the Falls, the tunnels that go under the falls themselves.

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03 Toronto

Toronto Skyline with purple light - Toronto, Ontario, Canada diegograndi / Getty Images

One of the most popular cities in the world for fashion, food, music, and about anything else you could want, Toronto feels like one of the best big cities in the world. Enjoy your trip to Toronto by visiting the revolving restaurant at the top of CN Tower, strolling through Chinatown, or taking a spin through the Art Gallery of Toronto.

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04 Banff

Landscape sunset view of Morain lake and mountain range, Alberta, Canada MartinM303 / Getty Images

Banff is one of the more famous National Parks in Canada and indeed the world. Canada’s first (and the world’s third) National Park, Banff, was established in 1885 and now draws tourists from around the world each year. Take in the scenery on the Banff Gondola or a stunning (and manageable) hike to Sunshine Meadows.

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05 Jasper National Park

Spirit Island - Jasper, Alberta, Canada. Wide angle shot during summer. Jeff Penner / Getty Images

Jasper National Park, in the province of Alberta, is an excellent place to visit year-round. Since the crowds are high in summer, though, we recommend checking it out during the winter months, when you can hike the frozen glory of Maligne Canyon and cozy up with a cup of hot cocoa by the fire at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.

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06 Quebec City

Old Quebec City view Canada Pgiam / Getty Images

The moment you step into Quebec City, it’s as if you’ve been transported to Europe without your noticing. The historic walled city is home to centuries-old buildings that make it a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meanwhile, bakeries on virtually every corner spin out fresh-made baguettes to die for. Take it all in with a fresh-brewed espresso at a cafe on the cobblestone streets, or head to Montmorency Falls Park to revel in the 272-foot-waterfall.

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07 Montreal

aerial view of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. R.M. Nunes / Getty Images

Montreal has everything travelers love about Canada: the old mixed right in with the new. Modern skyscrapers sit next to 17th-century architecture, and the French culture is alive and well in this beautiful city. Visit the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts or take a stroll through the Montreal Botanical Garden to get a taste of it all.

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08 Prince Edward Island

Beautiful sunset at Covehead Harbour lighthouse, Prince Edward Island, Canada Elenathewise / Getty Images

Eat your body weight in seafood on Prince Edward Island, home to Prince Edward Island mussels and much, much more. A relaxing destination with something for everyone, Prince Edward Island is a great place to take in a game of golf, learn to shuck your own oysters, or enjoy a relaxing day at the beach. Grab a seafood dish at Blue Mussel Cafe or a lobster roll at Richard's Fresh Seafood to round out the day.

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09 Mont-Tremblant

If you can’t get enough of the French culture around Quebec and Montreal, head up to Mont-Tremblant, which sits about 80 miles northwest of Montreal in the Laurentian Mountains. Summer visitors can explore the Parc National Du Mont-Tremblant, with more than 400 lakes and streams, while winter visitors can ski at Mont Tremblant Ski Resort.

Autumn leaves seen from the National Park "Mont-Tremblant" in the Laurentian Plateau in Quebec, Canada

10 Whistler

Silhouette of young Asian female paddle boarding in calm waters. VisualCommunications / Getty Images

If adventure is your middle name, Whistler is a must-see destination. Located in British Columbia, Whistler is the go-to destination for everything from skiing to hang-gliding. Take a spin on the hill or spend your afternoon leisurely pursuing the many boutiques, galleries, and shops in the area’s downtown.

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