The Top 4 Places to Visit in Canada During the Summer

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A fireworks show in a Canadian city

When’s the best time to visit Canada?

Winter sports enthusiasts and those who love cold weather will visit ski-friendly destinations in mountain ranges like Banff, Alberta, and Whistler, BC. However, summer is traditionally the peak tourist season in much of Canada.

Between the long days, warm temperatures, natural beauty, and plenty of local culture to enjoy, there’s something for everyone during this time of year in Canada.

As the second-largest country in the world, Canada has plenty of destinations to offer. Choosing where to go on a Canada summer vacation can feel a little overwhelming. You’ll have to think about what’s needed to cross the border, travel insurance, and much more.

To make the process a little easier, we’ve put together a list of our top four places to visit in Canada during the summer. Whether you love National Parks, bustling downtown entertainment districts, or quaint seaside towns, we can point you in the right direction.

Summer Vacation in Canada: Our Top Destinations

No. 1: Newfoundland and Labrador

Eastern Canada begins with Newfoundland and Labrador, a province with a proud fishing tradition. Visitors to Newfoundland and Labrador enjoy:

  • Amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean
  • Food
  • Culture
  • Hiking (as featured in the Boston Globe)
  • Historic districts
  • UNESCO World Heritage sites
  • So much more

The province’s official website highlights some top destinations.

While the weather can still be chilly at times during the summer in Newfoundland and Labrador, it’s still a great time to visit. Early morning low temperatures often give way to comfortable days, perfect for outdoor activities.

What should you know about the province when planning your trip?

  • The island of Newfoundland has more than 90% of the province’s total population
  • The province has its own time zone (Newfoundland Time, a half-hour ahead of Atlantic Time)
  • You can reach the province by plane as well as ferry service from Nova Scotia

No. 2: Quebec City, Quebec

While smaller in population than Montreal, Quebec City is just as interesting for visitors and full of fun. The city features historic buildings and neighbourhoods dating back to the 1600s as well as vibrantly modern culture.

The Old Quebec area, in particular, is a major attraction. With the fortified city walls still intact and stunning old-world architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage site attracts thousands and thousands of visitors each year.

The cold and snowy winters so common to Quebec give way to warmer temperatures and longer days during summertime. Summertime activities on the St. Lawrence River are a great way to explore nature. At the same time, you’ll stay close to an incredible mix of shopping, fine and casual dining, museums, and many more cultural activities.

No. 3: British Columbia

Vancouver is the largest city and metropolitan area in British Columbia and Western Canada as a whole, a world-class destination defined by its international character. It’s hard to be bored in a city of more than 600,000. Cultural experiences, shopping, nightlife, and much more are all just moments away when you stay in Vancouver.

The city is just a part of the larger province, with thousands of miles of coastline on the Pacific Ocean. Hiking, biking, camping, and much more are common activities for residents as well as visitors. If you don’t want to see a city beyond driving past or flying into and out of one for your next vacation to Canada, keep British Columbia in mind.

The natural splendour that surrounds Vancouver and extends throughout the province makes it easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Canada.

Fireworks explode over the Calgary Stampede with the city in the background.

 

No. 4: Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is known as an especially livable city, a metropolis surrounded by the natural beauty of the prairie provinces.

The city is perhaps best known for its namesake event, the Calgary Stampede. This combination of rodeo and festival attracts more than a million visitors each year to celebrate the city’s culture and community. There’s something for everyone, with a large midway, market, and all sorts of exhibitions each year.

Calgary itself has plenty to offer, too, from museums and the Calgary Zoo to trips to nearby Banff National Park and many other sources of natural beauty.

Planning to Visit Canada During the Summer? Make Sure You Have Visitors to Canada Insurance

The last thing you want to deal with on a summer vacation is an accidental injury or sudden illness — especially when you have to pay for treatment out of your own pocket.

Best Quote Travel Insurance offers dependable coverage for visitors to Canada. Get a free quote on visitors to Canada insurance!