Mar 13, 2019
Canada is home to its fair share of breathtaking scenery and incredible natural wonders. Whether you explore the Rocky Mountains in Western Canada, or the cities and towns of Central and Eastern Canada like Ottawa and Toronto, there’s no shortage of picturesque landscapes or historic landmarks to take your breath away.
Wondering what to include on your must-visit list of Canada? Here are our top 10 things you need to see and do whilst in Canada.
1. Butchart GardensÂ
Whether you are a green-fingered gardener or not, you are sure to appreciate the sheer beauty of the spectacular Butchart Gardens, located near Victoria in British Colombia.
Once a limestone quarry, Jennie Butchart transformed this land into a colourful sunken garden with beautiful landscaping. Today, the Sunken Garden is a centrepiece of any trip to the Butchart Gardens with meandering pathways and gorgeous floral displays, but be sure to make time for the equally beautiful Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, Italian Garden and Mediterranean Garden.
With over 100 years in the making, a visit at any time of the year will leave you astounded. Visit in spring for the colourful blooming daffodils and tulips, whilst in summer, longer days are perfect conditions for outdoor performances. In autumn, admire the changing colours of the leaves to golden yellows and rustic reds, whilst in winter, visit the gardens, complete with charming Christmas decorations and twinkling lights – a truly magical experience for all.
2. Wildlife
A visit to Canada wouldn’t be complete without its iconic wildlife and one of the primary reasons for visiting western Canada is the hope of seeing its famous wildlife. Jasper and Banff National Parks are the habitat of all the iconic species such as grizzly and black bear, moose, elk, beaver, bighorn sheep, deer and caribou.
The best time to spot bears is in spring from April/May where you are most likely to see bear cubs with their mothers.
Evergreen includes a number of wildlife activities such as breakfast with the bears at Grouse Mountain in Vancouver and breakfast at Vancouver Aquarium. We also have Discover More activities such as Photo Safari in Whistler and Whale Watching in Victoria. For those that really want to immerse themselves, don’t miss our Knight Inlet Grizzly Bear package that visits one of the most populated grizzly bear areas in British Columbia.
3. Lake Louise
Prepare to be amazed at beautiful Lake Louise, known as Canada’s “Diamond in the Wilderness”.
During our 22 Day Spectacular Rockies and Alaska Inside Passage Cruise, you have the opportunity to stay at this historic property and enjoy the spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
During our 22 Day Spectacular Rockies and Alaska Inside Passage Cruise, you have the opportunity to stay at this historic property and enjoy the spectacular views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The lake itself is a spectacle throughout the year. In summer, go canoeing on the emerald-green coloured lake or enjoy hiking on one of the many trails nearby, whilst winter offers world-class skiing opportunities.
You can even go walking or ice skating on the frozen lake.
You can even go walking or ice skating on the frozen lake.
4. Rocky Mountains via the Rocky Mountaineer
What better way to experience the remarkable natural wonders of the Rocky Mountains than on an iconic train journey aboard the Rocky Mountaineer.
Awarded by National Geographic as one of the world’s greatest rail trips, the Rocky Mountaineer is an unforgettable experience considered by many to be a trip of a lifetime.
Awarded by National Geographic as one of the world’s greatest rail trips, the Rocky Mountaineer is an unforgettable experience considered by many to be a trip of a lifetime.
Step outside on the viewing platform on the lower levels and feel the rush of fresh mountain air as you watch the passing scenery or treat yourself to the ultimate viewing and upgrade to GoldLeaf, a two-storey, glass domed coach featuring panoramic views on the upper level and a private dining room on the lower.
5. Capilano Suspension Bridge, Vancouver
One of the must see sights in Vancouver is the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
Located in the forests on the edge of Vancouver this spectacular suspension bridge stretches 70 metres above the Capilano River.
Take an exhilarating walk across the bridge and join the award winning Treetops Adventure along a series of elevated walkways to admire the views.
Located in the forests on the edge of Vancouver this spectacular suspension bridge stretches 70 metres above the Capilano River.
Take an exhilarating walk across the bridge and join the award winning Treetops Adventure along a series of elevated walkways to admire the views.
6. Icefields Parkway
Whilst in Canada, you cannot afford to miss driving along the Icefields Parkway, one of the most famous roads in the world.
Stretching 232km between Lake Louise and Jasper, the Icefields Parkway is known for its jaw dropping mountain scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. Be in awe of the scenery made up of rocky mountain peaks, vast sweeping valleys and icefields and keep an eye out for wildlife.
Stretching 232km between Lake Louise and Jasper, the Icefields Parkway is known for its jaw dropping mountain scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. Be in awe of the scenery made up of rocky mountain peaks, vast sweeping valleys and icefields and keep an eye out for wildlife.
Stop at the Colombia Icefields and climb aboard the ‘Ice Explorer’ for an unforgettable journey onto the mighty Athabasca Glacier. This is your chance to walk on and touch the glacier and admire the breathtaking scenery.
7. Beautiful Banff National Park
If you love nature and walking or simply prefer to relax amongst beautiful surroundings then Banff National Park really does have something for everyone. First established in 1885, Banff is Canada’s first national park and a World Heritage-listed Site. Soak up the picture postcard mountain scenery as you ascend Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola or take a helicopter ride over the Three Sisters Peaks.
Take your pick from a wide range of walks from an easy hike to some stunning turquoise lakes, or a longer trek up a mountain pass. For something more leisurely, enjoy a float trip along the Bow River, or simply relax and rejuvenate in the mineral pools of a local spa.
Even the small town of Banff is a charming place to walk around, set against gorgeous mountain scenery backdrop. Browse the shops, museums and art galleries, enjoy a drink at one of the many bars and dine at one of the top-class restaurants serving local delicacies.
8. Take a cruise
Whilst in Canada be sure to take an Alaskan cruise. Departing from Vancouver or Seattle, sail through the famed Inside Passage, one of the most spectacular waterways in the world.
Admire the jaw-dropping scenery and visit the historic towns of Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan.
At Glacier Bay National Park, cruise through the iceberg-strewn waters and if you’re lucky enough, hear the thunderous clap and watch as the ice ‘calves’ and breaks away from the glacier.
Admire the jaw-dropping scenery and visit the historic towns of Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan.
At Glacier Bay National Park, cruise through the iceberg-strewn waters and if you’re lucky enough, hear the thunderous clap and watch as the ice ‘calves’ and breaks away from the glacier.
9. Niagara Falls
Not to be missed during your visit to eastern Canada, Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world.
Dividing Canada and the United States, Niagara Falls is made up of three separate waterfalls, the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Take a walk along the Niagara Parkway to view all three of these spectacular falls.
Dividing Canada and the United States, Niagara Falls is made up of three separate waterfalls, the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Take a walk along the Niagara Parkway to view all three of these spectacular falls.
To get closer to all the action, cruise to the base of Niagara Falls and enjoy the thunderous roar of the cascading waters as you feel the mist on your face. Prepare to get wet and leave with memories to last a lifetime.
10. Québec
A visit to the charming French-Canadian province of Québec is a culturally enriching experience providing the perfect blend of quaint European towns and friendly Canadian hospitality.
Explore the quaint streets and historic buildings of Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure and home to North America’s oldest streets. Walk along the fortified walls and visit historical sites including the Plains of Abraham, the Parliament Building and the Citadel.
And if you’re a foodie, a gastronomic walking tour as part of our Discover More program is an essential bucket list experience.
Explore the quaint streets and historic buildings of Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure and home to North America’s oldest streets. Walk along the fortified walls and visit historical sites including the Plains of Abraham, the Parliament Building and the Citadel.
And if you’re a foodie, a gastronomic walking tour as part of our Discover More program is an essential bucket list experience.
