The Best Places to Visit in Canada Every Season (2024)

Adventures

As the second-largest country in the world and the closest in proximity to the North Pole, Canada spans just under ten million square kilometers across ten provinces and three territories. This vast nation boasts pristine wilderness, an alluring change of seasons, and a wealth of adventure for all ages year-round.

The country is a veritable playground for nature enthusiasts, with roughly 14% of its terrestrial and marine areas protected, and a target to increase conservation to 30% by 2030. Birdwatchers will delight in viewing millions of migratory birds returning in the spring to nest and reproduce in these protected lakes and forests.

Summer offers endless daylight to explore lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife, while fall paints the scenery in mesmerizing foliage colors. From winter to spring, the Northern Lights twirl a kaleidoscopic dance across the skies, creating unforgettable experiences that enhance your connection to the natural world.

Start planning your next escape at these exceptional places across the country with our guide outlining the best places to visit in Canada, the perfect times to explore, and the wonders you’ll encounter each season. From the legendary archipelago of Haida Gwaii to the remote beauty of the Yukon, discover the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage that make Canada a must-visit destination any time of the year.

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Canada in Spring

The landscape in Canada comes alive as spring blossoms across the country. Winter’s chill recedes, and in its place comes a flush of colour and freshness.

Many of the most beautiful places in Canada to explore at this time of year take you to remote regions and vast expanses of scenery where nature has been left to flourish undisturbed. Embrace the peace of this quiet season and let the stunning views transport you back to yourself.

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Haida Gwaii, British Columbia

Along the west coast of British Columbia lies the mythical Haida Gwaii archipelago, often referred to as the “edge of the world.” According to the Haida myth, a Raven released the first Haidas from a giant clamshell.

Archaeological records show that these ‘islands of the people’ have been inhabited for nearly 8,000 years. The Haida people hold a deep respect for all living things and each other, a timeless energy that continues to permeate their culture. The archipelago is one of the best places to go in Canada to connect to the country’s history and learn from one of its Indigenous communities, all whilst surrounding yourself with exceptional scenery.

What better place to witness the renewal of life and invoke a spiritual sense of self? Stay at Haida House’s forested lodge or oceanside cabins at Tlell, with enchanting surroundings and immersive cultural experiences to fill your days.

Canada in Summer

Many of the best holidays in Canada take place in the summer when the country’s weather is at its warmest and conditions are ideal for spending as much time outdoors as you can. Between June and August, immerse yourself in all kinds of activities as you soak up the sunshine and scenery.

Holiday destinations in Canada can get busy over the summer, as it’s when the country sees its highest numbers of visitors. Skip the cities and head instead for the quieter areas of the countryside or sleepy towns and villages where the gorgeous Canadian landscapes are right on your doorstep.

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The Best Places to Visit in Canada Every Season (6)

Pacific Northwest, British Columbia

The glorious Pacific Northwest is captured in British Columbia’s distinctive wilderness, with unspoiled rainforests, glaciers, mountains, and coastlines. It includes Vancouver, one of the best cities to visit in Canada, but also miles of expansive rural terrain where you can hike, swim, cycle and simply relax in your surroundings.

Begin your journey at the Fairmont Pacific Rim in Vancouver, where floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning harbor and mountain views. Venture off the grid to Vancouver Island’s Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge for luxury glamping, or head further north to Nimmo Bay Wilderness Resort for foraging, fly fishing, and exploring the Great Bear Rainforest by coastal safari.

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Fogo Island, Newfoundland

In Newfoundland, visit the captivating Fogo Island, once used as a fishing base, now a place to disconnect and reconnect. The landscape, dotted with colorful wooden houses and grassy hills that bloom with summer wildflowers, is the perfect setting for reflection.

Find your bearings at Fogo Island Inn, an architectural marvel with just 29 rooms overlooking the North Atlantic, inviting you to contemplate the surrounding isolation and stillness. It’s certainly one of the best places to stay in Canada if you want unbeatable views of the ocean, with the Inn’s exceptional architecture maximising views of the surrounding coast from almost every room.

Canada in Fall

It’s ‘leaf peeping’ season in Canada in fall. If you’re a fan of autumnal colours then there’s truly no better place to be as summer slips away, as the country’s forests erupt into fiery colour once September arrives.

With this in mind, many of the nicest places in Canada to explore in fall are surrounded by trees. With crisp leaves underfoot, a bright chill in the air and a plethora of things to see and do, it’s a gorgeous time of year to visit.

Quebec

Quebec, with its monumental stretch of nature, boasts 3 million lakes, dense woodland covering half the province, and 50 national parks and wildlife reserves. It’s undoubtedly one of the prettiest places in Canada to visit in the fall to witness the mesmerizing foliage shades.

Begin your stay at Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac in Quebec City, where history meets luxury. Then, move to the picturesque gem of Saint-Alexis-des-Monts for lakeside tranquility at Hotel Sacacomie, where a floatplane offers an unparalleled aerial view. Complete your journey with the refined blend of tradition and innovation at the historic Ritz-Carlton Montreal, where Afternoon Tea in the Palm Court is a must.

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The Best Places to Visit in Canada Every Season (10)

Canada in Winter

Snowy weather is synonymous with winter, and Canada is famous for its frozen conditions throughout the final season of the year. Prepare for finger-numbing temperatures but also jaw-dropping beauty as many of the best places to visit in Canada don a thick coat of snow for the winter.

The frosty weather brings plenty of visitors to Canada’s ski resorts at this time of year, but it’s also an incredibly romantic time to visit the country. The icy weather creates the ideal setting to enjoy unforgettable walks and even sleigh rides through the sparkling snow or cosy evenings in front of roaring fires.

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Yukon Territory

In the far north of the Yukon Territory, once a hub for European settlers during the Klondike Gold Rush, you can partake in incredible outdoor adventures such as ice fishing, dog sledding, and snowmobiling. The winter season here attracts intrepid travellers, so it’s one of the top places to visit in Canada for a holiday experience with a difference.

Whether you’re seeking grizzlies or the magnificent aurora borealis, base yourself in a lakeside log cabin at Southern Lakes Resort in Tagish to discover the Yukon’s rugged beauty. Gaze out over the water or up into the trees from the shelter of your deck, or take to the forest via dogsled and watch the snowy landscape speed by.

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The Best Places to Visit in Canada Every Season (13)
The Best Places to Visit in Canada Every Season (14)

Alberta

Alberta’s Banff National Park, Canada’s first and the world’s third national park, evokes breathtaking wonder. Winter transforms Banff into a magical wonderland with frozen lakes and ice sculptures, making it one of the best places to visit in Canada for an other-worldly experience at the end of the year.

Complement your stay with Fairmont Banff Springs, a castle-like hotel offering luxury and history, followed by Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, nestled at the base of Victoria Glacier where you can ice-skate on the lake. Mount Engadine Lodge in Kananaskis offers unique back-country experiences and a more rustic, intimate setting. For an unforgettable adventure, take a heli-tour over the stunning glaciers, offering a bird’s eye view of the breathtaking landscape.

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Northwest Territories

In the Northwest Territories, experience huge herds of free-roaming bison and unparalleled wildlife watching. This is Canada at its most rugged and remote, with unyielding mountains rising above the Arctic tundra and the aurora borealis dancing overhead.

Engage in snowmobiling, dog sledding, and ice fishing, and enjoy the spectacular Northern Lights. Stay at Blachford Lake Lodge for a truly magical winter escape. This remote lodge offers unique activities such as igloo building and pond hockey, ensuring a memorable and immersive experience in this vast, snowy wilderness.

Our Final Thoughts

No matter the month, Canada offers breathtaking beauty and unforgettable experiences. It’s the perfect travel destination to enjoy the raw scale and splendour of the natural world, whether you’re climbing mountains in the peak of summer or stargazing in the snow.

Canada is a beautiful country at any time of year, but there are certain seasons where particular regions really shine, which is when we suggest you plan your trip. Our recommendations on the best places to visit in Canada focus on providing unique and authentic experiences instead of typical tourist attractions, and this seasonal guide allows you to enjoy these locations at their very best.

With our 360 Private Travel Club Membership, you can collaborate with your 360 Private Travel Designer to curate the perfect itinerary, ensuring you make the most of Canada’s vast and varied wilderness.

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