Canada is an artist’s delight with its ever-changing landscapes and spectacular outdoors. However, this huge, diverse country is much more than its natural vistas. Canadian cities have unique attractions that bring visitors from near and far. From ocean-fringed cities to ones with mountainous backdrops and cobblestone streets, there is much to discover about Canada’s metropolises. So if you’re wondering what is the most visited city in Canada or what cities to visit in Canada, you’ll find your answer in the ones we’ve listed below.
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Halifax, Nova Scotia
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If you’ve ever wondered about what cities to visit in Canada, the city of Halifax in Nova Scotia should figure on your list. While it is no sprawling metropolis compared to what is the most visited city in Canada, this seaside city has its appeal.
The city attracts many visitors with its epic seafront boardwalk, exceptional museums, and heritage buildings. Another great feature of Halifax is that it’s easily explored on foot. So whether it’s a stroll through the landmark citadel or soaking up nature in its gorgeous public parks, Halifax is sure to charm you.
Edmonton, Alberta
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Another city that figures at the top of what is the most visited city in Canada is Edmonton in Alberta. To many, Edmonton may be a transit hub en route to Jasper National Park, one of Canada’s most beautiful national parks. However, Alberta’s second-largest city is much more than a stopover point. For those who decide to linger a few days, you’ll find many attractions worth visiting.
The city’s Ice District downtown is a top attraction with its array of dining, shopping, and world-class entertainment. Edmonton also has the distinction of having one of the most amazing shopping malls in the world; West Edmonton Mall.
Banff, Alberta
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Banff may not figure on many lists of what cities to visit in Canada, given that it barely qualifies as a city. Nevertheless, this resort town, the largest metropolis in Banff National Park, sees a massive footfall of visitors. It’s not just the lure of visiting one of the most amazing national parks on earth that brings people here and the town’s vibe.
Like an authentic ski resort town, you’ll find everything from museums, fancy restaurants, nightclubs, and boutique shops. However, what sets Banff apart from what is the most visited city in Canada, is its breathtaking scenery. Visitors come here to soak in the majesty of the Rockies and explore the natural surroundings. Some are also here to check out what is one of the most haunted places in the world; the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.
Victoria, British Columbia
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Victoria in British Columbia still has a whiff of old England with double-decker buses, afternoon tea, and castle-like homes. But the city has shed much of its Britishness to carve its own unique identity, standing out from its Canadian counterparts.
The laid-back city enjoys a milder climate compared to most other cities on this side of the globe. As such, Victoria features on many lists what cities to visit in Canada. Besides being a travel destination, the city is also a favored choice for retirement. Sitting at the southern tip of Vancouver Island, the ‘Garden City’ has plenty of interesting things to do. You could stay at one of the best hotels in Victoria and enjoy all that the city has to offer.
Ottawa, Ontario
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Showcasing one of the most impressive parliament buildings in the world, Ottawa immediately comes to mind when you ask what cities to visit in Canada. The capital’s Gothic Parliament buildings are a big draw for visitors to what is the most visited city in Canada. While this is one of the biggest architectural attractions of the city, you’ll find plenty of other wonders that will capture your attention.
There are fascinating museums to explore and parks, gardens, and other public spaces. If you can brave the cold, an excellent time to visit the city would be the Winterlude festival which celebrates the cold like no other. The Canadian Tulip Festival is another attraction that brings visitors to the city.
Calgary, Alberta
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Calgary in Alberta is another name that comes to mind when you wonder what is the most visited city in Canada. Canada’s fifth-largest city has a long list of things to do, beginning with one of the country’s biggest festivals – the Calgary Stampede. The city comes to life in July, with over a million visitors heading here for the week-long festival.
It’s not just about cowboys and horses, though. Visitors to the city also come here to hit the slopes in winter. Having hosted the 1988 Winter Olympic Games, the city boasts a massive sports complex. There are plenty of other outdoor activities to enjoy in this city that sees more sunshine than anywhere else in Canada. Apart from this, you can also take in some of the city’s history at the Heritage Park Historical Village. Another reason Calgary is recommended on lists of what cities to visit in Canada is its cleanliness. The city is often featured on the list of the cleanest cities in the world.
Niagara Falls, Ontario
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When it comes to what is the most visited city in Canada, Niagara Falls is right up there. Quite obviously, the gorgeous falls are the city’s main drawcard, attracting millions of visitors each year. As such, you’ll find plenty of hotels in town, with some hotels having the best views of Niagara Falls. Honeymooners especially make a beeline for the city.
In contrast to the gorgeous falls, the city comes as a surprise. It is pretty evident that much of the activities in town are centered around tourists. High-rise hotels, observation towers, casinos, theaters, and amusement parks make up a large chunk of the town.
Montreal, Quebec
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Montreal is so infused with fun and culture that it naturally climbs up the rankings of what cities to visit in Canada. Festivals seem to be right at the top of the agenda of this francophone city. With over 90 festivals celebrated year-round, it’s no wonder that the city is a big draw for visitors.
However, Montreal is not only about fun and festivals. It’s also about its exciting past, seen in the 18th-century facades of Old Montreal. Heritage churches such as the Basilique Notre-Dame will take your breath away, as will more recent structures like the Stade Olympique and Habitat 67. The best hotels in Montreal are as delightful inside out, with many of them housed in restored mansions or historic buildings. Besides this, the city will also tantalize your tastebuds like no other with its heady food scene.
Quebec City, Quebec
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Quebec City holds the distinction of being North America’s oldest French-speaking city and also one of its oldest settlements. While a good number of people do speak English, the preferred language is French. Walking through the picturesque Old Town is akin to taking a step back in time. Narrow cobblestone streets, historic houses, and soaring church spires will make you feel like you’re in a part of Old Europe.
As with any historic city that sits high on the rankings of what is the most visited city in Canada, you’ll find much to see and do in Quebec City. Starting with the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, the grand old hotel, much about the city will fascinate any visitor. For those with a little cash to spare, spending a night at the iconic hotel, one of the best hotels in Quebec City, is worth it.
Vancouver
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Vancouver is where you could begin for those still uncertain as to what cities to visit in Canada. The ocean-fringed metropolis is almost picture-perfect with its mountainous backdrop and massive park right downtown. Vancouver also enjoys a milder winter than most other Canadian cities, adding to its allure.
Most visitors to the city enjoy a stroll downtown. Getting around the neighborhoods is pretty simple on foot too. You may not find many huge attractions as other Canadian cities, but there is much to discover about Vancouver. Check in to one of the best hotels in Vancouver to savor the city’s delights.
Toronto
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When it comes to answering the question of what is the most visited city in Canada, Toronto wins hands down! Toronto has everything for the perfect vacation for the entire family. From having one of the most fascinating zoos in the world to featuring at the top of the safest cities in the world and playing host to professional sports teams, the city is unique in many ways.
Canada’s commercial capital is a melting pot of cultures with its diverse population. Whether it’s the food, celebrations, or customs, Toronto has different parts of the globe ensconced in its neighborhoods. Chinatown, Little Italy, and Danforth are just some of the diverse neighborhoods the city embraces. Famous attractions such as the iconic CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, and Nathan Phillips Square are also worth your time.
