Whilst Canada is perhaps best known for its untouched wilderness landscapes, wonderful wildlife, soaring mountains, pristine lakes and rocky coastlines, this vast country is also home to a whole host of vibrant cities. Whatever you’re looking for, Canada’s cosmopolitan cities offer an incredible range of sightseeing attractions that will delight any traveller.
Vibrant Toronto is an absolute must-visit if you love the hustle, bustle, energy and excitement of urban life. From world-class attractions to a buzzing nightlife scene, and home to some of the trendiest neighbourhoods in the world, Canada’s largest city really does have something for everyone; whatever your interests may be.
Located on the north-western shore of Lake Ontario, Toronto is brimming with iconic sights and hidden gems. Drink in the spectacular panoramic vistas over Toronto from the top of the world-famous CN Tower, explore the marvellous memorabilia at the Hockey Hall of Fame, take a trip to the zoo or for a taste of Toronto’s rich cultural heritage, visit the hilltop castle of Casa Loma with its grandiose towers and underground secret passages. Shoppers will be in their element here too, with the city boasting some of Canada’s largest shopping malls, whilst foodies won’t want to miss the famous St. Lawrence Market and the restaurants of Toronto's Distillery District.
Venture a little further afield and you’ll be able to explore the world-famous Niagara Falls, where you can take an unforgettable voyage on the Hornblower to get a close-up view of these thunderous falls. With something for everyone, Toronto is the perfect place for an exciting escape.
Renowned for its superb shopping, incredible foodie scene, lively nightlife and fascinating culture and history, Montreal perfectly blends old-school European charm with a contemporary cosmopolitan vibe.
One of the largest French-speaking cities in the world, marvellous Montreal is an exciting melting pot of both French and Canadian cultures, and it has all the right ingredients for a unique city break. Stroll through the gorgeous cobblestoned streets, explore the enormous collections at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, indulge in some retail therapy in the chic boutiques of Saint Catherine Street or explore the Underground City, with its tunnels that stretch for over 20 miles and are lined with an incredible selection of sophisticated restaurants, shops and quirky bars.
Undoubtedly one of Canada’s finest cities, Montreal is a multi-faceted metropolis, where you’ll certainly find plenty to occupy your time.
With its magnificent oceanfront setting and stunning mountain backdrop, the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver is nothing short of spectacular. A place where you can swim at the beach and explore a mountain in the same day, where the cuisine is world-class and the nightlife amazing - Vancouver is brimming with amazing experiences for every kind of traveller.
Make the most of the incredible outdoor spaces and hike up the mighty Grouse Grind. Climb right to the top and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views across the city, or for less strenuous pursuits yet equally breathtaking vistas, take a trip to the peak of Grouse Mountain on the exhilarating Skyride Gondola. Stanley Park, with its sandy beaches, gorgeous gardens and an incredible selection of totem poles is one of Vancouver’s best-loved spots for locals and tourists alike, whilst Granville Island with its bustling food market is the perfect place for foodies.
For adrenaline-fuelled fun, head to the thrilling Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. At 70 metres above the Capilano River and 140 metres long, the epic suspension bridge in this park isn’t for the faint-hearted. It does, however, offer wonderful views of the great outdoors and the West Coast rainforest.
From May to October, whales migrate through the waters near Vancouver and a day trip from the city offers a perfect opportunity to see Humpback, Orca and Pacific grey whales in the wild.
Four miles (6km) down the coast is the quaint town of Praiano, framed by caves, castles and sharp cliffs. A stroll from here towards Amalfi will take you to a ramp leading to Marina di Praia, a 400-year-old fishing village nestled in the embrace of a tiny ravine. Another notable stop between Praiano and Amalfi is the Grotto dello Smeraldo.
The busy seaside town of Amalfi basks in the glory of its longevity as the first Sea Republic of Italy, and as the hometown of Flavio Gioja, the inventor of the compass. It is referred to as the 'pearl of the coast' and has a bit of everything for the weary traveller. A pebble's throw away from here is the quiet village of Atrani. Its tranquil beach rests languidly on the water's edge against a superb backdrop of mountains.
Further down the coast is Minori, notable for its lemon exports, a gentle place with villas and beaches to explore. The quiet town of Ravello retains the charm prized by Bocaccio who dedicated part of his famous work, the Decameron, to the town. The coastal road that twists its way between the rocks affords glimpses of small villages, bays and inlets, and a journey along this southern route will take travellers to towns of worldwide fame as well as to lesser-known spots of equally enchanting beauty.
Canada’s capital city of Ottawa offers stunning architecture, fascinating historical sights and a plethora of famous landmarks. It’s also a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with an incredible culinary scene and home to some of the best festivals and events in the world.
Visit the parliament buildings, enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Rideau Canal, marvel at the world’s largest collection of Canadian art at the National Gallery of Canada or visit the colourful ByWard Market, where you can shop, eat and drink at one of the country’s oldest and most iconic outdoor markets.
A city where you can learn and explore the history of Canada whilst at the same time enjoying world-renowned urban and outdoor fun, Ottawa offers so much to see and do that it’s difficult to know where to start.
The largest city in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon is home to exciting entertainment, fascinating cultural landmarks and excellent dining; all with a welcoming small-town feel.
Occupying an enviable position on the South Saskatchewan River, Saskatoon also has some lovely outdoor spaces, and with the river running through its centre, there are plenty of pretty walks and cruises to enjoy.
Other attractions here include the unusual Saskatoon Western Development Museum, home to a replica of the original 1900s Saskatoon boom town, complete with entertaining demonstrations. To go even further back in time, venture north to the Wanuskewin Heritage Park and explore 6,000-year-old archaeological dig sites as you learn about the history and traditions of the First Nations people.
The capital of Newfoundland and Labrador on Canada’s stunning eastern coastline, St. John’s is North America’s oldest existing city and it’s home to an exciting array of outdoor activities, superb shopping and an exciting nightlife scene. Named by National Geographic as one of the ‘Top 10 Oceanside Cities in the World,’ St. John’s has a rich and fascinating history, together with a distinct Irish and British heritage.
An undoubted highlight of your stay will be a trip to Signal Hill - the birthplace of modern communication and the spot where the world's first transatlantic radio transmission was received. On top of the hill, you’ll find the wind-swept Cabot Tower, where in the summer months, you’ll be able to watch history come alive with a military re-enactment as soldiers dressed as the 19th-century Royal Newfoundland Company perform a tattoo and fire cannons.
Another must-see historical site in St. John’s is the Cape Spear Lighthouse. Perched high up on a rugged clifftop, this iconic symbol of Newfoundland and Labrador's maritime history offers breathtaking vistas that you won’t forget in a hurry.
After an exhilarating day spent exploring beautiful St. John’s, dine on freshly-caught lobster in one of the incredible fine-dining restaurants before heading out to enjoy the city’s buzzing nightlife, with lively George Street boasting more pubs and bars per square foot than any other street in North America.
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