As the second largest country in the world, Canada certainly isn’t small. Having said that, much of Canada is wilderness, meaning a major proportion of its population (around 80 per cent) is dispersed throughout its southern territories and provinces. 

So where should you start if you want to get a real taste of Canada? If you’re visiting for the first time, here are some of our favourite destinations and attractions that are well worth including on your Canada itinerary. 

• Explore Toronto – Often mistaken as the nation’s capital, Toronto is a sprawling metropolis that’s akin to cities like London, New York and even Melbourne. Tourists flock to Toronto for its dynamic cultural scene, highlighted by world-class museums, theatres, enticing culinary offerings and a full calendar of festivals and events. While there, make sure you head up the iconic CN Tower for breath-taking panoramic views of the cityscape, and check out neighbourhoods such as Kensington Market, Queen Street West and the Distillery District to experience more of Toronto’s vibrant atmosphere.  

• Get Frenchy in Montreal – Canada has a rich history combining English, French and North American cultures. While the American and English influence is evident throughout much of the country, in Quebec, things are undoubtedly more French. With a very distinctive European charm, you can immerse yourself in the city’s French-speaking ambience while exploring cobblestone streets and savouring delectable French cuisine in bistros and patisseries. 

• Catch an ice hockey match – Ice hockey is practically the national sport of Canada, so it’s almost rude not to get a feel for what it’s all about. The National Hockey League (NHL) hosts 32 teams (7 of which are Canadian), so whether you’re in Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton or Ottawa, make sure you catch a match while you’re there.  

• Hit the world-class Canadian slopes – Home to the likes of Whistler-Blackcomb, Lake Louise, Jasper and Mont Tremblant among others, Canada is famed for its excellent skiing. If you love your snow sports, few places that rival the Canadian slopes—just make sure you add Winter Sports Comprehensive to your travel insurance to make sure you’ll be covered at all times. 

• Head out on a wildlife tour – Canada is home to a diverse range of wildlife that you’ll never see in Australia, from moose and bears to wolves, caribou, bald eagles, elk, bighorn sheep and even polar bears! Even if you don’t manage to encounter every type of wildlife in a particular habitat, just try not to enjoy taking in those breath-taking Canadian landscapes! 

Climate 

Spanning such a large geographical area, you can encounter a variety of conditions in different parts of Canada throughout the year, offering everything from arctic conditions in the north to temperate climates in the south. 

In general, the country experiences four distinct seasons—cold winters with snow and ice, mild springs with blossoming flora, warm summers with varying humidity levels, and colourful autumns marked by falling leaves. Coastal regions, like British Columbia, tend to have milder temperatures, while the northern territories endure long, harsh winters. 

Culture and language

Canada is officially bilingual with English and French as its two official languages. While English is the most widely spoken language across the country, French is the predominant language throughout Quebec. While French will be spoken almost exclusively in the more rural areas of Quebec, Montreal is a largely bilingual city and you’ll be able to get by easily enough speaking English. 

With its strong historical British ties, Canadian culture isn’t too different from Australian culture—both embrace outdoor lifestyles, have a multicultural population and a strong sports culture. However, Canada also has a strong French influence (particularly in Quebec) which adds a unique linguistic and cultural dimension. 

Most Canadians are welcoming of tourists and are generally happy to assist if you ask for help or directions. Like their southern neighbours in the United States, tipping is also customary in Canada. Adding a gratuity of between 15 to 20 per cent of the total value of the bill is standard. If you receive excellent service, you may choose to leave a tip of around 25 per cent. Leaving a tip of 10 per cent is considered to be the absolute minimum and should only be applied if you receive terrible service. 

Getting around 

Most major cities in Canada have established bus and/or metro train systems which make it relatively easy to get around. However, as Canada is so large and dispersed with vast stretches of farmland and wilderness, your transport options will be a little more limited when commuting between cities or to more rural locations. If you’ll be venturing outside of the cities, a hire car will likely be your best option. 

Accommodation 

You’ll find a wide variety of accommodation options throughout Canada, including everything from hotels and private holiday home rentals to backpacker hostels, holiday parks and campgrounds, bed and breakfasts, serviced apartments and homestays. 

Accommodation can be expensive in some locations, so it’s worthwhile doing your research to find the most suitable option/s. 

Entry requirements 

Australian travellers are exempt from needing a visa to visit Canada, however, you will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before you fly to Canada. If you’ll be entering Canada via road or sea (e.g. on a cruise or driving from the United States), you won’t need to obtain an eTA.

It’s always a good idea to visit the Australian government’s Smartraveller website before your trip for the latest information and updates about travelling to Canada. 

All set for your trip to Canada?  

Make sure you’ve ticked these items off your checklist before you head off: 

• Check your passport is valid with at least 6 months of validity left from the date you plan to leave the country 

• Ensure you meet the visitor entry requirements for Canada 

• Speak to your doctor to find out if you require any travel vaccinations 

• Arrange a travel currency card or another method of payment to cover expenses while you’re away 

• Notify your financial institution of your plans to travel 

• Contact your phone provider to ensure your phone plan will cover you while you’re away or purchase a pre-paid international sim card 

• Arrange accommodation for each location you plan to stay in 

• Consider booking any tours or activities you want to do in advance 

• Provide details of your travel plans to a family member or close friend not travelling with you so you can be contacted in case of an emergency 

• Save the details of how to access emergency consular assistance in case you need it 

• Organise your travel insurance with PassportCard.