Wondering why you should visit Canada? These 10 reasons show exactly why this country deserves a spot at the top of your vacation list. From outdoor adventure and wildlife encounters to unforgettable food, art, culture, and some of the friendliest cities in the world, you'll find plenty of reasons to visit - and clear answers if you've been asking yourself why travel to Canada.
Dig into food and drink favorites
Canada's culinary scene is as diverse as its landscapes, and tasting your way across the country is one of the best reasons to visit. Start with bucket-list experiences like cozy, chef-led dinners under the northern lights in Churchill, Manitoba - an unforgettable way to pair local flavors with a once-in-a-lifetime view. Then explore Canada's Michelin-recognized restaurants in cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Montréal, or sample up-and-coming brews while visiting innovative breweries in places like Ontario and Nova Scotia.
Travel through over 45 national parks
A photo posted by Erik Thomsen (@bound.away) on Jun 18, 2016 at 12:30pm PDT
Outdoor enthusiast? Then Canada's probably already on your bucket list thanks to its amazing array of national parks. But even if you're not a seasoned hiker, parks like Glacier National Park in British Columbia and Rouge National Urban Park in Toronto provide plenty of opportunity to explore the country's renowned nature.
Spot only-seen-in-Canada wildlife
A photo posted by Explore Canada (@explorecanada) on Nov 23, 2015 at 2:02am PST
We're known for bears, whales, beavers and more. And if you play your cards right, pretty much any trip up north will have you viewing wildlife you can't spot anywhere else. Head to the east coast and spot over 22 species of whales or check out polar bears and belugas in the arctic.
Celebrate rich culture
A photo posted by Canadian Geographic (@cangeo) on Jun 20, 2016 at 12:31pm PDT
From coast to coast, you'll find people, culture, and communities that encapsulate the past of the country, while looking forward to the future. Appreciate the rich Indigenous culture across the country; discover First Nations art in Northern British Columbia; explore human rights at the Canadian Museum of Human Rights in Winnipeg; relive history in almost every province and territory -- there are plenty of ways to discover Canada's past.
Live it up at a festival
A photo posted by Susan Moss (@susanmossphotography) on Jul 31, 2015 at 5:31am PDT
No matter your taste, we've got a festival for you. Into music? Check out Oshega in Montreal or RBC Bluesfest in Ottawa. If comedy's more your thing, Just For Laughs in a must-attend. There are also film festivals (like Toronto International Film Festival) and food festivals all across the country (like Pemberton's Slowfood Cycle Sunday).
Meet very friendly people
A post shared by Destination British Columbia (@hellobc) on Mar 8, 2019 at 8:26am PST
It's true, we're pretty polite. But more than that, we live in some of the best cities in the world and we're willing to show them off. Chat up a local at a live music venue or sidle up to a new friend at a communal table to get insider's tips on how to best explore your new favorite city.
Explore the longest coastline in the world
A photo posted by British Columbia Magazine (@britishcolumbiamagazine) on Apr 16, 2016 at 12:33pm PDT
We have more water than anywhere else on the planet and this means a whole lots of coastline. Head out on the open ocean in New Brunswick to spot whales putting on a show or get to know the West Coast by kayak or float plane. No matter which province or territory you visit, you'll never be far from a pristine lake or ever-changing tide.
Find adventure wherever you go
A photo posted by Brad Celmainis (@bradcelmainis) on Mar 6, 2014 at 6:16pm PST
Nature equals adventure, meaning Canada is set up to get your adrenaline pumping. Head into the wilderness and explore Canada's rustic side or stick close to the city and discover an urban adventure. Exhilarating excursions can be found just about everywhere -- from the Badlands of Alberta to the windswept mountains of Baffin Island.
Discover the four seasons
A post shared by Explore Canada (@explorecanada) on Jul 22, 2018 at 8:01am PDT
It's not always cold up here. In fact, it's probably warmer than you think. Canada's host to four distinct seasons, making it a great year-round destination. Head into the trees to discover the fall colors, celebrate winter at a festival in Quebec City, lay out on a beach in Prince Edward Island in the summer, or discover spring coming to life on a hike in Ottawa.
Take in the diversity
A photo posted by Edmonton Tourism (@exploreedmonton) on Aug 7, 2015 at 2:59pm PDT
From culture, to food, to experiences, Canada certainly boasts a diverse experience for everyone. No matter what you’re passionate about, we have something to offer — all you need to do is pick a place to visit and start exploring.
Ready to explore? It's time to start planning your visit.