Major Cities in Canada Worth Visiting: Which One is Right for You?

Beyond Canada’s scenic landscapes and majestic mountains are several impressive cityscapes with unique attractions for you to explore.

Read on to find out the 10 major cities in Canada you shouldn’t miss on your next visit.

Vancouver

Located on the country’s west coast, Vancouver is one of British Columbia’s most spectacular cities.

For history buffs, exploring Gastown is a must-visit. Aside from its famed whistling steam-powered clock, the historic neighbourhood has vintage lampposts and architecture dotting its cobblestoned streets.

Families can also visit the Museum of Vancouver to learn more about the city and Stanley Park, which boasts grassy knolls and unique totem poles at Brockton Point.

Québec City

Québec City is the capital and second-largest city of Québec Province, after Montreal. As a former French colony, the city is predominantly French-speaking and prides itself on having an illustrious cultural and historical heritage.

In 1985, Old Québec became part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. The historic neighborhood is home to gorgeous neoclassical buildings and beautifully manicured gardens, perfect for travelers who want to quietly admire resplendent scenery.

Surrounding the renowned district is Petit-Champlain Street, the oldest commercial avenue in North America, and the Cathedral-Basilica of Notre-Dame de Québec, an iconic Catholic Church.

Winnipeg

Known as the “Gateway to the West” thanks to its innovative transportation and railway systems, Winnipeg is a diverse and thriving city in Manitoba in Central Canada.

It’s famous for its array of cultural heritage spots, such as the Winnipeg Art Gallery and St. Boniface Cathedral, and for having three majestic rivers—the Assiniboine, the Red, and the Seine–flowing through its neighbourhoods.

Winnipeg is the go-to spot for art enthusiasts as its cultural scene is lively and diverse, being the home of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Winnipeg Folk Festival, and the Winnipeg Philharmonic Choir.

Montreal

Like Québec City, Montreal possesses a distinguished French heritage, and with it, stunning historic architecture along its oldest street, Rue Saint-Paul. Some of these remarkable buildings date back to 1861.

The bustling streets of Montreal are an incredible spot for food connoisseurs who want a taste of the best cuisine that the city has to offer, from fresh bagels to poutine.

Families can also spend time exploring one of the city’s largest parks, the Mont-Royal, then cap the day off admiring the city skyline at Jacques Cartier Bridge, which is the venue for the annual International Fireworks Festival.

Toronto

Toronto is the ideal holiday spot for aesthetes seeking the finest in arts and culture thanks to its thriving creative scene. It also boasts verdant green spaces, outdoor cafes, and beach boardwalks worth admiring.

One of the best things to do in Canada is to immerse yourself in the local culture, which is easy to do in Toronto, with its many art galleries and museums, including the Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto and Gardiner Museum.

Another of the city’s most famous landmarks worth seeing is the CN Tower, which offers gorgeous views of the city and Lake Ontario.

Ottawa

Ottawa features a vibrant dining scene, with streets dotted with buzzing breweries and fine dining spots, making it a great place for the most discerning epicureans.

If you’d like to cook like the locals do, drop by ByWard Market to pick up the freshest produce and ingredients from over 260 stands. There are also rows of food trucks and food vendors in the area where you can sample delicious international dishes, from lobster rolls to Korean bibimbap.

For a taste of the best local cuisine, the city boasts restaurants from award-winning chefs like Atelier by Marc Lepine, the two-time Canadian Culinary Champion. His restaurant serves an innovative 12-course tasting menu each night. 1 Elgin in the National Arts Centre also showcases delicious contemporary Canadian cuisine, featuring seasonal flavours and locally-sourced ingredients.

Edmonton

Situated in the centre of the mountainous province of Alberta, Edmonton is full of wonders, from wildlife attractions to indoor amusement parks. Canada’s largest mall, West Edmonton Mall, is found here, boasting a shopping and entertainment complex perfect for families with young children.

For a unique, interactive experience like no other, there’s Fort Edmonton Park, an open-air museum and heritage park that brings 1885, 1905 & 1920 Edmonton to the present. Travel back in time with period-specific architecture, enjoy a dazzling birds-eye view from the 1920s-style Ferris wheel, and get whisked away on a wagon ride that goes on a scenic loop around the park.

Victoria

Nestled on the rugged southern borders of Vancouver Island, Victoria is an idyllic city with a scenic harbour, colourful gardens, and historic British-inspired architecture.

Due to its Mediterranean climate, it’s one of the best places in Canada to visit during the winter, since you can look forward to cool, mild temperatures and crisp, fresh air.

This quaint city is known for its small-town feel, which is excellent for those seeking a relaxed, laid-back holiday. Getting around is quick and easy, especially for those in groups or with families.

Since Victoria is also known as “the Garden City,” nature lovers will love its lush greenery and gardens with tropical foliage. Among the must-see spots to appreciate the verdure here is the Gardens at HCP (Horticulture Centre of the Pacific), with over nine acres of abundant gardens across 103-acres. It also features natural trails, bird watching spots, and a Zen garden.

Calgary

Calgary is known for its large oil deposits and significant nature reserves, making it a popular attraction for families as it features museums, zoos, and natural parks. One of its top-rated attractions is the Calgary Zoo, Canada’s largest zoological park.

Other attractions worth visiting in Calgary include Prince’s Island Park and Eau Claire Market, both located near Bow River. Meanwhile, you can catch stunning city views from the top of Calgary Tower.

Saskatoon

Saskatoon, also known as Paris of the Prairies, is among the top emerging holiday destinations in Canada along the South Saskatchewan River in Saskatchewan province.

The Wanuskewin Heritage Park is a must-visit attractions here, featuring a museum where you can learn about local First Nations culture, magnificent grasslands to go for a nature hike in, and an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy contemporary and traditional indigenous cuisine.

Other enchanting spots to explore in the city include the Western Development Museum and the Ukrainian Museum of Canada, which showcases European cultural traditions in the region.

Experience Canada through Its Major Cities

Canada’s cities are filled with incredible things to see and experience. From art galleries to well-preserved historical buildings, you can’t go wrong when planning for your next holiday here.

Are you heading to Canada soon? Plan your next adventure with our travel and holiday packages.