Travel Tips
Canada
The Rockies, multicultural cities and vast wilderness make Canada a dream for road trips and outdoor lovers.
What I love about Canada
People often ask me what I love most about a country. Every country has its good and bad sides, but here I share the positives I found on my travels.
The beauty of nature. Many parts of the United States look similar, but with far fewer people, Canada's national parks feel quieter and less commercial.
- Capital
- Ottawa
- Currency
- Canadian dollar (CAD)
- Language
- English, French
- Best overall
- June to September, or December to March for snow
- Emergency
- 911
- Electricity
- 120V, plug types A and B
Top Destinations
Many visa-exempt visitors flying in need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). US citizens have different rules. Check the official Canadian government site. Passport validity rules vary, so check the requirements before you book.
Read about visa on arrival, e-visas and online registration →
Still have specific visa questions?
Summer is best for hiking and parks. Autumn colors peak around late September and October. Winter is excellent for skiing.
Not sure which month suits your trip?
Banff National Park
Turquoise lakes and Rocky Mountain peaks.
Toronto
A diverse city with the CN Tower and easy access to Niagara.
Vancouver
A coastal city between mountains and sea.
Niagara Falls
The huge falls on the US border.
Quebec City
A walled French-speaking old town.
Need help choosing where to go?
- Days 1 to 3 Toronto and Niagara Falls
- Days 4 to 5 Quebec City, by train or air
- Days 6 to 9 Banff National Park, by air
- Days 10 to 12 Vancouver
Want a route planned around your dates?
- Distances are huge, so fly long stretches. Rent a car for the Rockies.
- Check winter road rules and tires if you are driving in the mountains.
Not sure how to get between places?
- Cards are widely accepted. Tipping 15 to 20 percent is expected in restaurants, and tax is added at checkout.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly or a local SIM on arrival, so maps work from day one.
Questions about costs, cash or SIM cards?
- Poutine: fries with cheese curds and gravy.
- Butter tart.
- Montreal-style bagels.
Want tips on what and where to eat?
- Be bear aware in the parks, keep food secure, and follow local guidance.
- Book popular national park campsites and shuttles early.
Planning a trip to Canada?
Book a one-on-one call and bring your questions about your route, costs and visa.
Information on this page may change, so please confirm the latest visa and entry requirements and your government travel advice on official websites before you travel.