Canada

Canada is the second largest country in the world by total area. It is also the fourth largest country by the land area. Comprising of three territories and ten provinces, Canada has no dearth of beautiful tourist attractions and a number of unique sites to explore. From coast to coast, Canada is a home to several flamboyant and culturally rich cities. One can also find an array of natural wonders here. Towards the Western Canada, Calgary, Vancouver and Victoria dominate almost every itinerary. Towards the Central Canada, Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City, Niagara Falls and Ottawa are the significant sightseeing attractions. If you are out venturing the Maritime Provinces of the Canada in the east, you’ll come across the magnificence of the Gros Morne National Park. In addition to this, other places to see here include the cities of St. John’s and Halifax that offer it a different flavor and a character. Off to the untrodden but equally alluring regions in the North of Canada gives you an opportunity to see the polar bears in their habitat. You can also explore the beauty of cities like Yellowknife and Whitehorse. Both the National Parks and the Provincial parks located across the Canada are a treat for the traveller’s eye.

 

Canada is probably best known for its wild and expansive nature. The second-largest country in the world, by landmass, has only a few major cities, leaving huge areas of wilderness to explore. Expect breathtaking views across crystal-clear lakes, verdant valleys and rugged mountains. Take a good, deep breath of the crisp, clean air and just enjoy life for a while. For those with a love of the great outdoors, you can hit the ski slopes in British Columbia, go looking for moose in Banff, or enjoy the (better) view of Niagara Falls on the Canadian-American border.

The few large cities in Canada shouldn’t be overlooked, though – each provides an interesting and unique cultural hub, from the French-Canadian Montreal to the cosmopolitan Toronto. Canadians are famously among the most polite and welcoming people on the planet, and that attitude has created a fascinating culture for you to explore, combining influences from around the world.

Quebec

Quebec is Canada’s largest province, with most of its cities set along the Saint Lawrence River. Quebec City attracts holidaymakers – especially history lovers – with a UNESCO-listed Old Town that's reminiscent of medieval Europe. Some of the city’s most beautiful buildings include Notre-Dame de Quebec Basilica-Cathedral and Château Frontenac. Most of Quebec’s population is fluent in French, making it a rather popular holiday destination among European travellers.

If you prefer the great Canadian outdoors, plan a visit to Charlevoix on the northern shore of the Saint Lawrence River. With the dramatic Laurentian Mountains as its backdrop, the region boasts gorgeous fjords, headlands, and bays. Another must-visit is the vast and rugged Gaspé Peninsula, which has 4 national parks with trails leading to picturesque waterfalls.

The best things to do in Montreal highlight the city’s rich history and old-school European elegance. It’s an impressive, eclectic city that combines European culture with a North American way of life. Old Montreal, with its 17th-century buildings, contrasts the somehow futuristic Underground City, and shows how Montreal is so rich in culture and history.

It’s one of the most bilingual cities in Canada, and the largest French-speaking  city behind Paris. Montreal offers plenty of things to do for just about any traveller. Nature lovers can enjoy Mount Royal and the Botanical Gardens, while art lovers will be fascinated by the Museum of Fine Arts. Read on for our guide to Montreal’s most famous sightseeing spots. 

Québec City

Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in North America. Founded in 1608 on the banks of the Saint-Lawrence River, it’s the former capital of New France, now the capital of the Canadian province of Quebec. It’s famed for its walled Old Town listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the downtown area retains a quaint vintage vibe thanks to its grand architecture and cobblestoned streets.

Quebec City is the true soul of the province of Quebec. Here, you can enjoy the same sensations you feel when exploring historic French towns such as Carcassonne or Avignon. Head to Dufferin Terrace and stroll past heritage landmarks like Quebec Cathedral and Fairmont Château Frontenac. The maze of narrow streets in the Old Town are lined with picturesque boutiques and bistros. Quebec City offers you an enjoyable touch of nostalgia. Get ready to fall in love with the Frenchest city in Canada.

The best things to do in Quebec City include top attractions in one of the oldest cities built by European settlers in North America. The original French settlement dated back to the early 17th century and has left many historical buildings around the picturesque Old Town.

From the impressive, majestic Montmorency Waterfall to the lively Petit-Champlain neighbourhood, and from Dufferin Terrace to Notre-Dame de Quebec Basilica-Cathedral, the capital city of the Province of Quebec offers a true trip back in time. Meanwhile, gourmands will certainly enjoy local food specialities like poutine and maple syrup grandfathers. Take a look at what else Quebec City is famous for. 

Montreal

Montreal, in the southwest of French-speaking Quebec, is a diverse and cosmopolitan island city. Taking its name from Mount Royal—the mini-mountain right located in the city center—Montreal boasts a rich history and still exudes old-school European elegance; nowadays it’s also renowned for its unbridled creativity, innovative cuisine, and vibrant festivals.

Climb to Mount Royal’s summit and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the island of Montreal and St. Lawrence River. St. Joseph’s Oratory, Canada’s largest church, is located on the mountain’s northwestern slope, with 99 steps leading to its entrance.

The best things to do in Montreal highlight the city’s rich history and old-school European elegance. It’s an impressive, eclectic city that combines European culture with a North American way of life. Old Montreal, with its 17th-century buildings, contrasts the somehow futuristic Underground City, and shows how Montreal is so rich in culture and history.

It’s one of the most bilingual cities in Canada, and the largest French-speaking city behind Paris. Montreal offers plenty of things to do for just about any traveller. Nature lovers can enjoy Mount Royal and the Botanical Gardens, while art lovers will be fascinated by the Museum of Fine Arts. Read on for our guide to Montreal’s most famous sightseeing spots. 

Alberta

Alberta lies in Western Canada, boasting a diverse landscape of mountains, alpine lakes, rivers, and boreal forests. The province is most famous for its wintertime activities, especially in resort towns like Banff and Jasper. With an elevation of over 1,380 metres, Banff is the highest town in Canada. It’s a great place for exploring Alberta’s Banff National Park, with its emerald lakes and natural hot springs.

Jasper (and its namesake national park) is also a popular destination in Alberta. You can enjoy camping, hiking and mountain biking in the beautiful Canadian backcountry almost any time of the year. Wintertime is especially lovely in Alberta, thanks to world-class ski resorts, natural hot springs, and magnificent sites like the Columbia Icefield.

Top destinations in Alberta

Banff

Banff offers all the fun and excitement of a major mountain resort town, high up in Alberta’s Rockies. At more than 4,600 feet, it’s the highest town in Canada. The peaks of Mt. Rundle and Mt. Cascade dominate the town’s skyline, with wide snowy streets that offer a great variety of shops, bars, and restaurants.

Off Banff’s snowy avenues, head into a pub or café to discover the warmth and friendly vibes of the Banff locals. The town is cradled by the Banff National Park, and you’ll most likely spot the approachable and curious mule deer on the outskirts. In the summer, you can take in the great outdoors. Ride into the Canadian Rockies on the Banff gondola, hike forest trails, raft rushing rapids, and kayak on placid lakes against fairy-tale-like scenery.

These best things to do in Banff let you enjoy the sights and action of one of the jewels of the Canadian Rockies. The small and central town serves as the perfect base for exploring Alberta’s Banff National Park. Even without leaving the town, you’re surrounded by snow-capped alpine backdrops. Within a short drive into the countryside, you’ll hit emerald lakes and unique natural hot springs.

 

Further out of town, you can have fun at excellent ski resorts or embark on a journey into the heart of one of the world’s largest non-polar glaciers. When it’s time to unwind, head back to town for an evening at one of the many cosy pubs. This list of great things to do in Banff should help you plan your adventurous trip into some of the greatest of Canada’s great outdoors.

 

Calgary

Calgary sits in the south of the Canadian province of Alberta, at the junction between the Great Plains and the foothills that lead into the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Settled on the banks of the Bow and Elbow Rivers, Calgary is an important commercial and touristic hub, renowned for its high quality of life.

One of the largest cities in Canada, its rich historic heritage is retained through large events such as the Calgary Stampede held every July and claimed by some to be, “the greatest outdoor show on earth”. Home to notable buildings such as Fort Calgary, the Bow and the Grain Exchange, the city centre blends past and present in style. Strolling along the riverside, visiting the Heritage Park Historical Village and shopping on 17th Avenue are just a few of the cool things to do in Calgary.

Calgary sits towards the western end of the Canadian prairies, roughly 80 km east of the Canadian Rockies. The city has a quaint feel, blending modern and vintage atmospheres and décor into a place that has a lot in common with Dallas in the USA.

As one of the largest cities in Canada, Calgary doesn’t lack of exciting things to do. From getting a stunning view from the top of Calgary Tower to taking a walk back into history at the Heritage Park Historical Village to feasting on yummy Alberta beef, there’s a great range of attractions and activities that await you in Calgary. 

Edmonton

Edmonton is a riverfront city on the North Saskatchewan River, attracting nature lovers with more than 20 parks and countless miles of hiking trails within the river valley. Getting around downtown Edmonton is convenient thanks to its indoor/outdoor walkway system. Called the pedway, it interlinks over 180 shops and stores across the city centre. Prominent landmarks you should visit include Royal Alberta Museum, Winspear Centre, Oblats Maison Provinciale, and the River Valley Victoria Park.

The capital of Alberta is also known for its annual festivities, including Edmonton Folk Music Festival and North America’s largest Fringe Festival. Take a daytrip to the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, which showcases the lives of early Ukrainian Canadian settlers through story-telling, cultural shows, and demonstrations.

Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, is big on Canadian history. The city traces its roots back to the North American fur trade and the early days of the Canadian Pacific Railway. You can enjoy a hands-on experience with the city’s colourful past at the unique living history museum of Fort Edmonton Park or by taking a walk around some of the older districts.

For Edmonton’s more contemporary highlights, you don’t need to look further than downtown and around the southern bank of the North Saskatchewan River. Great things to do in Edmonton in a day include watching a Canadian Football League match or exploring the largest mall in all of North America.

British Columbia

British Columbia lies between the Pacific Ocean and the Rocky Mountains, giving nature lovers the best of both worlds. The province enjoys plenty of sun and warm weather, especially in the Sunshine Coast and its marine provincial parks. Okanagan Valley and the Glacier National Park are great for hiking and biking adventures. Planning a winter vacation? Whistler, Fernie, and Revelstoke are just a few of the best ski resort towns in British Columbia.

If you’re looking for a city break, British Columbia offers ample choices. Victoria is the family-friendly capital city of the province, offering pretty gardens, historic sites, and scenic waterfronts. The coastal city of Vancouver offers similar sights of the Pacific Ocean, along with notable museums like the Maritime Museum, Vancouver Art Gallery, and HR MacMillan Space Centre.

Top destinations in British Columbia

Vancouver

Vancouver lies between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains in Western Canada. Its glassy skyscraper skyline shouts modernity and business, but it’s also one of the country's major cultural hubs. The Museum of Anthropology tells stories of art and history from around the world, and the Access Run Art Centre supports emerging creatives.

To live like a Vancouverite, check out the Granville Island Public Market. There are tons of foodie delights on offer, from steaming fresh-baked bread to bundles of colourful vegetables, plus local arts and crafts sold by the artisans themselves.

Our guide to the best things to do in Vancouver is a well-balanced mix of modern urban features and magnificent natural settings. It’s often considered one of the most liveable and beautiful cities in the world. Starting at the striking waterfront landmark of Canada Place, you can explore the city's beloved outdoor attractions, such as Queen Elizabeth Park, or head north from the famous Stanley Park and across Lions Gate Bridge to the peak of Grouse Mountain.

Vancouver acts as a gateway to Canada’s great outdoors, be it along the Pacific Coast or up in the Pacific Ranges. Within an hour’s drive out from Vancouver’s high-rise downtown hub, you hit gorgeous beaches and forested mountains. For more great sights and experiences, read on for our list of Vancouver’s most famous spots. 

 

Victoria

The city of Victoria is a delightful historical destination with a long maritime heritage. The capital of British Columbia, it’s known as “the Garden City” for its many well-manicured green spaces, like the massive Beacon Hill Park. The history on display is a respectful mix of First Nations and European settlers, with iconic landmarks like Craigdarroch Castle and the British Columbia Parliament Buildings from one and the world’s tallest free-standing totem pole from the other.

Victoria has a rugged seafront, one of North America’s oldest Chinatown districts and a snow-free climate, giving the city a broad appeal. Downtown, you’ll find a great nightlife, regular festivals and events and a wide choice of restaurants, with a special focus on farm-to-table freshness. It’s also right by the docks, and the very popular whale watching tours you can enjoy from there.

The best things to do in Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, include a cool combination of beautiful parklands, coastal scenery, and historical landmarks. One of the prettiest spots is Inner Harbour, where two of the city’s most impressive buildings can be found on leisurely strolls among striking scenery.

There’s plenty of opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors in and around Victoria, too. It’s a great departure point for whale-watching voyages, and the Butchart Gardens in Brentwood Bay offer seemingly endless floral displays. For shopping, make your way to Johnson Street and, after the sun sets, the rows of bars and pubs on Government Street come to life. Make the most of your visit with this handy guide to the top things to do in Victoria. 

Richmond

Richmond is 15 km south of Vancouver and boasts a multicultural community of French and Asian descent. This unique mix can be seen in the city’s diverse dining, sightseeing, and shopping options. The city centre covers 3 sq kms and is best explored on foot or bicycle, with vibrant markets and strip malls lining the main streets. Notable sites in central Richmond include the ornate Chinese-inspired architecture at the International Buddhist Temple and Richmond Olympic Oval. 

Come summertime, nature lovers get to enjoy hours of picnicking and recreational sports in natural areas and city parks, such as Minoru Park and Terra Nova Nature Area. Dolphin and whale watching expeditions let you get up close with these gentle giants. In the evening, Richmond becomes alive with karaoke joints, dance clubs, and live bars playing bluegrass, funk, and folk tunes all night long. 

The best things to do in Richmond are a mix of manmade and natural wonders. This seaside city in British Columbia often serves as a culturally-charged and history-filled alternative to neighbouring Vancouver. You can find most of its heritage in the fishing village of Steveston, where you can take in waterfront views while feasting on seafood broils at Fisherman’s Wharf.

In the city, you’ll find one of the largest Buddhist temples in all of North America. Richmond’s modern shopping malls in the so-called Golden Village also show Asian influences, with Chinese and Hong Kong-style eateries and shops. Besides culture and history, the city offers its share of the great Canadian outdoors. Find out more through this list of things to do in Richmond.

 

Whistler

Whistler is a mountain town in British Columbia and the main tourist hub of Whistler Blackcomb, one of the world’s great ski resorts. Combining 2 mountains and 3 glaciers, there are more than 8,000 acres of skiable terrain. Winter sports fans can enjoy a fantastic range of activities from November to April, but Whistler is not just for winter – this alpine playground is a popular spot throughout the year. In the warmer months, you can enjoy hiking through the forests, swimming in the crystal-clear lakes, and many adventure sports like mountain biking and ziplining.

Whistler Village is a charming, pedestrianised zone that has plenty of dining and boutique shopping catering to the many visitors that pass through. For incredible views, don’t miss the Peak 2 Peak gondola that moves between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. If you’re looking to relax, consider treating yourself to a Scandinavian-style spa session or simply find yourself a peaceful spot and enjoy the majestic natural landscape.

Whistler is famed for its breathtaking, blockbuster-worthy backdrop. Think soaring snow-capped mountains, mirror-like lakes and fragrant alpine forests woven with picturesque trails. Year-round, it provides a sprawling adventure playground for outdoorsy types, where you can hike and bike in the summer, or glide down snow-powdered slopes in the winter at Whistler Blackcomb – one of North America's largest ski resorts. Après-adventure, charm-laden Whistler Village welcomes you back with its top-notch buffet of restaurants, alluringly fashionable shops and lively nightspots where you can mingle with the up-for-it into the early hours. 

 

Ontario

Ontario is one of the largest provinces in Central Canada, covering a total area of over 1,000,000 sq km. It has 15 regions dotted with thousands of freshwater lakes and rivers, giving you plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. One of the most visited destinations in Ontario is Niagara Falls, a group of 3 waterfalls that’s a magnificent sight to enjoy from both afar and up close.

Muskoka is a scenic cottage country with 1,600 pristine lakes – great for a family vacation filled with easy swimming, kayaking, or tubing. Those who love adventure can enjoy mountain biking, ATV rides, ziplining, and hiking through pine forests. Toronto – Ontario’s capital – is also worth a visit thanks to its cultural diversity, old-world districts, 19th-century buildings, and contemporary structures.

Ottawa is Canada’s capital city and home to the seat of the Canadian government. It promises sightseeing and attractions that are to some degree, rich in history. For this, you can make your way to picturesque Parliament Hill, home to the city’s grandest neo-Gothic buildings set by the southern bank of the Ottawa River. 

Another grand landmark in Ottawa not to be missed is Notre-Dame Cathedral, with its towering spires dominating the city skyline. Other things to do in Ottawa include cruising along Ottawa River, or boating in Rideau Canal which turns into the world’s largest skating rink in winter – it’s fair to say that Ottawa is great to visit in any season.  

Toronto

Toronto is a smorgasbord of cultural diversity—from modern North York Centre to historic Corktown, you’ll love the mix of old-world districts, archaic 19th-century buildings, and contemporary structures, like the iconic CN Tower.

Visit thousands of animals at the Toronto Zoo, learn about the history of footwear at the Bata Shoe Museum, and take in the many unique exhibits at the Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art (MOCCA). Shoppers won't be disappointed either—visitors flock to Toronto Eaton Centre, a vast mall jam-packed with boutiques and dine-in restaurants.

There are many cultural things to do in Toronto, it being a lively, cosmopolitan city, and one of the most popular destinations in Canada. It’s has a famous music scene, an extremely varied dining scene and many unique neighbourhoods, all clustered around the Old Town. Torontonians are also keen on their sports, with the city coming to life on game days – around the baseball ground in the summer and the ice hockey stadium in the winter.

Visitors to Toronto will find plenty of historical buildings, dramatic scenery and great shopping, but it’s also a city of hidden treasures and secret nooks. With a convenient subway system and excellent bus and street car services, there’s plenty of opportunity to explore. 

Ottawa

Ottawa is Canada’s beautiful capital city, set on the south bank of the Ottawa River in Ontario. The city is peppered with national and historical sites, with cultural attractions and festive celebrations that you can enjoy throughout the year. Popularly thought of as a winter destination, Ottawa’s waterways and parks come to life in the warmer months. Rideau Canal offers scenic boating. But come wintertime, it becomes the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink.

Although Ottawa’s one of Canada’s modern hubs for technology and science, the city still has a deep appreciation for history, culture, and ceremonies. Set your eyes on Parliament Hill by the river for one of the city’s most picturesque views and witness the city’s changing of the guards against some of the city’s grandest Gothic Revival buildings. Enjoy Ottawa’s great outdoors at its beautiful parks or go on scenic walks or bike rides through the downtown area.

Ottawa is Canada’s capital city and home to the seat of the Canadian government. It promises sightseeing and attractions that are to some degree, rich in history. For this, you can make your way to picturesque Parliament Hill, home to the city’s grandest neo-Gothic buildings set by the southern bank of the Ottawa River. 

Another grand landmark in Ottawa not to be missed is Notre-Dame Cathedral, with its towering spires dominating the city skyline. Other things to do in Ottawa include cruising along Ottawa River, or boating in Rideau Canal which turns into the world’s largest skating rink in winter – it’s fair to say that Ottawa is great to visit in any season.  

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls sits on the west bank of the winding Niagara River in southern Ontario. The main draw is, of course, the 3 legendary waterfalls that stretch across the border between Canada and the United States. To really appreciate this awesome natural spectacle, take a boat trip right to the foot of the ferociously thundering falls – just be prepared for a soaking.

The town’s also home to an array of kid-friendly attractions. Here you can come face-to-face with majestic killer whales and graceful dolphins, or brave adrenalin-pumping thrill rides like the looping Dragon Mountain coaster.

Among the best things to do in Niagara Falls, Ontario, is none other than the Canadian city’s world-famous natural landmark. The Niagara River, which forms the border between Canada and the USA, features one of the most impressive series of waterfalls on planet Earth. Horseshoe Falls is the largest of the 3 waterfalls that make Niagara Falls, and it’s on the Canadian’s side of the border.

Besides the waterfalls, Niagara Falls, ON is a lively town which has developed a great range of attractions and activities to entertain the many visitors pulled there by the powerful falls. Clifton Hill amusement park, the Botanical Gardens and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! are just a few of the exciting things to do in Niagara Falls. You’ll find more in the list below. 

Mississauga

Mississauga is mostly known as a hub of business and commerce. It’s effectively the not-so-central business district of neighbouring Toronto, and is also where you’ll find the city’s main international airport.

Visitors to Mississauga have positive things to say about this family-friendly city and its sports. There's a nice selection of cafés to enjoy during your stay. You can easily spend a relaxing day in Mississauga visiting The Riverwood Conservancy and J.C. Saddington Park. And while you're here, be sure to stop by Square One shopping mall and the Living Arts Centre.

Mississauga is one of the largest and busiest towns in Canada, but is mostly known for its association with Toronto. Immediately to the west of the big city, Mississauga is kind of an out-of-town central business district and, as such, attracts huge numbers of business travellers each year. So, if you’re there to work, what can you do with the little time you have when you’re not in meetings and workshops? You can’t commute into Toronto every time you want a meal or a few after-work drinks.

Fortunately, you don’t have to. This list will help you find good places to visit with your colleagues. If you do find yourself with enough time to take a trip into Toronto, we’ve even given you a few ideas of where to start your exploration, helping you to make the most of your free time on a Mississauga business trip.