Most Beautiful Cities in Canada

From the thundering waters of Niagara Falls to the rugged peaks of the Canadian Rockies, blend these dramatic settings together with incredible architecture and history and you will find yourself in the most beautiful cities in Canada.

Let’s face it, Canada is all-around extraordinary. So, let’s take a look at the most beautiful cities dotted throughout The Great White North.

• Vancouver

  

  Located in British Columbia, Vancouver is easily the most beautiful Canadian city. You will discover mountain vistas in the north, the Pacific Ocean to the west and Stanley Park downtown. The city’s sweeping panoramas are incredible and offer unlimited recreational opportunities.

  The city is renowned for its art and culture scene, with various museums and galleries to choose from. These include the Vancouver Art Gallery, the Museum of Vancouver and the Science World Vancouver.

  The sky is the limit for adventurers here. Enjoy mountain biking, hiking, canoeing and more in the Pacific Spirit Park or cycle along seawall downtown. Meander along the beaches of Kitsilano or head to Granville Island to shop for some special goodies.

• Ottawa

  Located in Ontario, Ottawa is the vibrant and colorful capital that offers a treasure-trove of exciting attractions and fun activities and tours.

  Take a peek into the world of the Canadian government on Parliament Hill. If you are a history buff, the city is dotted with world-class museums and galleries where you can learn about Canadian history and culture. Some excellent stops not to be missed include the National Gallery, The War Museum, The Museum of History and the Science and Technology Museum, to name a few.

  The city also offers stunning trails, as well as boating and kayaking on the Ottawa River. If you feel famished, don’t miss the Byward Market area – it is a short distance from Parliament Hill. Here you will find delicious foods, drinks and a ‘vibey’ atmosphere.

  One of the instagrammable things to do in Ottawa – take a picture on the lock bridge on the Rideau Canal.

• Quebec City

  Quebec City, the capital of the Canadian province of Quebec, boasts a distinctly European atmosphere. Located on towering cliffs overlooking the St. Lawrence Seaway, it is the only capital in North America with its original city walls, the ancient Porte Saint-Louis.

  The city’s Old Town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can easily be explored on foot. Anyone taking a walking tour through the Old Quebec City streets would be awed by its architectural treasures.

  A must-see on your list is the 100-year-old Chateau Frontenac that dominates the cityscape. Other city highlights include the Jacques Cartier National Park, the National Museum of Beaux-Arts, Montmorency Falls and the Sainte Anne-de-Beaupre Shrine.

• Montreal

  Located in Quebec, Montreal is Canada’s largest city, famed for its architecture, superb cuisines, vibrant art scene and exciting entertainment opportunities. The city boasts incredible structures, with skyscrapers rubbing shoulders with historical gems.

  Another jewel to visit is the Basilique Notre Dame, the famous cathedral located at Place Jacques Cartier. Spend time inside admiring the stunning gold-adorned altar.

  If you are an avid nature lover, hike Mont-Royal and get sweeping views of the entire city. And if you are into stunning scenery, visit La Grand Roue de Montreal, Canada’s largest observation wheel located at Montreal Old Port.

• Toronto

  Toronto is the capital of Ontario and is best described as the ‘cultural capital of Canada’. The energetic, vibrant city is located on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario and is home to an array of attractions and seemingly endless entertainment, shopping and dining opportunities.

  Most Torontonians would argue that what makes Toronto the best city is its diverse neighborhoods, from Little Italy, Chinatown and everything in between.

  Walk the cobbled lanes amongst quaint boutiques and studies in the Distillery History District. If you are a lover of the arts, head down to Rush Lane (better known as Graffiti Valley) to admire some incredible street art.

  Toronto also boasts a plethora of museums, National Historic Sites and famous landmarks, including the iconic CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. Other places to visit include Casa Loma, Toronto Island and Nathan Philips Square.

• Calgary

  Calgary is considered Canada’s wild west. It is home to the famous Calgary Stampede, a week-long festival featuring concerts, rodeos and exhibitions galore. However, there is much more to Calgary than just cowboy hats and horses.

  Experience what life was like back then and learn about the pioneer days at the Heritage Park Historical Village or wander along the Bow River at the Prince’s Island Park. If you are keen on witnessing some majestic views, enjoy a meal at the SKY 360 revolving restaurant atop the 191m Calgary Tower.

  If you are an outdoor enthusiast, there are many activities to revel in, including river rafting, biking, hiking and more.

Ever visited one of these places? Let us know in the comment section what is your favorite Canadian city to visit.