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Canada (east)
Experience Canada, a land of breathtaking natural wonders like Banff National Park, vibrant cities like Toronto, and the stunning Niagara Falls. Enjoy winter sports, wildlife, and unforgettable North American travel adventures.
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Overview
Months
04. April, 08. August, 02. February, 07. July, 03. March, 11. November, 05. May, 06. June, 01. January, 12. December, 09. September, 10. October
Vacation type
Couple, Family, Nature, Sightseeing, Party, Hiking, Skiing, Mountains
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
0-10°C, 10-20°C, 20-25°C, Under 0°C
Rainfall
0-50mm
Safety
Very safe
Continent
North America
Currency
Canadian dollar
Languages
English, French
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Eastern Canada is during the fall (September to October) and summer (June to August).
- Fall (September to October): Offers crisp, cool temperatures and stunning fall foliage, especially in places like the Laurentians in Quebec and the Adirondacks in New York. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying scenic drives.
- Summer (June to August): Provides warm weather and long daylight hours, ideal for exploring cities like Montreal, Quebec City, and Toronto, as well as enjoying outdoor activities in national parks and along the coast.
- Spring (April to May) can be a good time as well, with milder temperatures and fewer tourists, but it can still be unpredictable.
- Winter (November to March) brings cold temperatures and snow, making it perfect for winter sports in areas like Quebec and Ontario, but less ideal for general sightseeing.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: June-September (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($50-100/day)
Accommodation: $30-60/night (budget hotels, hostels, Airbnb).
Food: $10-20/day (street food, casual restaurants).
Activities: $10-25/day (museums, parks, city tours).
Transportation: $5-15/day (public transport, metro).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, small activities).
Mid-Range Vacation ($100-250/day)
Accommodation: $60-150/night (mid-range hotels, boutique guesthouses).
Food: $20-40/day (local restaurants, casual dining).
Activities: $25-50/day (cultural experiences, day trips).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local taxis, Uber).
Other Costs: $10-20/day (souvenirs, special activities).
Luxury Vacation ($250+/day)
Accommodation: $150+/night (luxury hotels, boutique accommodations).
Food: $40+/day (fine dining, upscale restaurants).
Activities: $50+/day (private tours, luxury experiences).
Transportation: $20+/day (private transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $20+/day (luxury experiences, high-end shopping).
Off-Peak Season: October-May (Fall & Winter)
Budget Vacation ($40-80/day)
Accommodation: $20-50/night (budget hotels, hostels).
Food: $10-15/day (simple meals, local eateries).
Activities: $5-20/day (indoor attractions, museums).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($80-200/day)
Accommodation: $50-100/night (mid-range hotels, cozy guesthouses).
Food: $15-30/day (mid-range restaurants).
Activities: $10-30/day (museums, historical sites, winter activities).
Transportation: $10-20/day (public transit, taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($200+/day)
Accommodation: $100+/night (luxury hotels, high-end resorts).
Food: $25+/day (fine dining, upscale restaurants).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, unique cultural experiences).
Transportation: $15+/day (private transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury experiences, shopping).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Toronto
- The largest city in Canada, known for its iconic CN Tower, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant arts and culture scene.
2. Montreal
- A major cultural hub, famous for its festivals, historic Old Montreal, and culinary scene. It's also known for its bilingual (French and English) population.
3. Ottawa
- The capital city of Canada, home to important landmarks like Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, and the Rideau Canal.
4. Quebec City
- Known for its well-preserved historic district, charming Old Quebec, and landmarks like the Château Frontenac and Montmorency Falls.
5. Halifax
- The capital of Nova Scotia, known for its maritime history, waterfront boardwalk, and attractions such as the Halifax Citadel and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
Toronto
Islands
1. Prince Edward Island
- Known for its picturesque landscapes, red sand beaches, and the setting for the famous "Anne of Green Gables" series.
2. Cape Breton Island
- Located in Nova Scotia, it is famous for its stunning Cabot Trail, cultural heritage, and scenic highlands.
3. Îles de la Madeleine
- Part of Quebec, these islands are known for their unique red cliffs, sand dunes, and vibrant Acadian culture.
4. Newfoundland
- The island portion of the province of Newfoundland and Labrador, known for its rugged coastline, historic sites, and charming towns like St. John's.
5. Thousand Islands
- Located in the Saint Lawrence River between Ontario and New York, this area features over a thousand small islands, many with beautiful cottages, historic sites, and excellent boating and fishing opportunities.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Niagara Falls
- One of the most famous natural wonders in the world, offering breathtaking views, boat tours, and the chance to explore the surrounding parks and attractions.
2. Prince Edward Island
- Known for its scenic beauty, including red sand beaches, rolling farmland, and the iconic Green Gables house. The island is also great for cycling and exploring its charming towns.
3. Cape Breton Highlands National Park
- Located in Nova Scotia, this park features rugged coastlines, forested highlands, and the famous Cabot Trail, known for its stunning coastal views.
4. Gaspé Peninsula
- In Quebec, the Gaspé Peninsula offers dramatic cliffs, coastal landscapes, and the famous Percé Rock. The area is great for hiking and exploring natural beauty.
5. Bay of Fundy
- Known for having the highest tides in the world, this bay offers unique geological formations, including the Hopewell Rocks, and opportunities for whale watching.
6. Algonquin Provincial Park
- Located in Ontario, this park is known for its extensive network of lakes, forests, and hiking trails. It’s a popular spot for canoeing, camping, and wildlife viewing.
7. Mont Tremblant
- A popular ski resort in Quebec that offers year-round outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and scenic gondola rides.
Urban and Cultural Attractions
1. Toronto, Ontario
- Canada's largest city offers attractions like the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, Distillery District, and diverse neighborhoods with rich cultural experiences.
2. Montreal, Quebec
- Known for its vibrant arts scene, historic Old Montreal, the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, and the lively festivals, such as the Montreal International Jazz Festival.
3. Quebec City, Quebec
- A UNESCO World Heritage site with charming cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and landmarks such as the Château Frontenac and Old Quebec.
4. Ottawa, Ontario
- The capital city features Parliament Hill, the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of History, and the picturesque Rideau Canal.
5. Halifax, Nova Scotia
- A historic port city known for its waterfront, the Halifax Citadel, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, and its vibrant arts and cultural scene.
6. St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
- Known for its colorful row houses, Signal Hill, and the vibrant culture of the Newfoundland and Labrador region.
7. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
- The provincial capital with historic sites such as Province House and a charming downtown area.
8. Moncton, New Brunswick
- A gateway to the Bay of Fundy, with attractions like Magnetic Hill, and proximity to the charming town of Sackville and its beautiful landscapes.
Niagara Falls
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- Given Canada's large size, flying is often the quickest way to travel between major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary. Airlines like Air Canada and WestJet offer extensive domestic flight services.
2. Trains
- Via Rail operates a network of trains connecting cities and regions, with popular routes like the Canadian (Toronto to Vancouver) and the Ocean (Montreal to Halifax). The Rocky Mountaineer offers scenic luxury train experiences in the Rockies.
3. Buses
- Intercity buses are a common and economical option for travel between cities and towns. Companies like Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus provide services across Canada.
4. Public Transit
- Cities have well-developed public transit systems, including buses, subways, and streetcars. Toronto’s TTC, Vancouver’s TransLink, and Montreal’s STM are examples of extensive urban transit networks.
5. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is ideal for exploring cities and the countryside, especially if you want to visit national parks or drive through scenic routes like the Icefields Parkway in the Rockies. Driving is on the right side of the road.
6. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps
- Taxis are available in cities, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft operate in many urban areas, providing a convenient option for getting around.
7. Cycling
- Many Canadian cities have bike lanes and rental services, making cycling a viable option for local travel. Cities like Vancouver and Montreal are particularly bike-friendly.
8. Ferries
- In coastal areas, such as between Vancouver and Vancouver Island, or in places like the Gulf Islands, ferries provide essential transportation options.
For urban travel, public transit and ride-hailing apps are convenient, while flights, trains, and car rentals are ideal for longer journeys and exploring more remote areas.
What to eat
1. Poutine
- French fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy, a popular comfort food from Quebec.
2. Butter Tarts
- A sweet pastry filled with a mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs, often containing raisins or nuts.
3. Tourtière
- A traditional meat pie made with minced pork and spices, often served during holidays in Quebec.
4. Nanaimo Bars
- A no-bake dessert bar made with a crumbly base, custard-flavored icing, and a chocolate topping.
5. Bannock
- A type of flatbread that can be baked or fried, often enjoyed with jam or as a side dish.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airports: Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL), Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €300 to €700.
- Cheapest Months: January to March and October.
- Peak Prices: Summer (June to August) and Christmas holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $100 to $500.
- Cheapest Months: Late winter (January to March).
- Peak Prices: Summer (June to August) and holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: February and October.
- Peak Prices: July to August and December.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,100 to $2,000.
- Cheapest Months: February and November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $800 to $1,500.
- Cheapest Months: February and November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Many travelers need a visa to enter Canada, including citizens of countries like India and China, while some nationalities can enter visa-free.
2. Visa-Free Entry
- Citizens of the U.S. can enter Canada without a visa for short visits. Citizens of several other countries, including those from the EU, Australia, and New Zealand, may also visit visa-free for stays of up to 6 months.
3. Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
- Travelers from visa-exempt countries (except the U.S.) need an eTA to board flights to Canada. This can be applied for online and is typically valid for up to 5 years.
4. Visa Application
- Travelers requiring a visa must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) at a Canadian embassy or consulate or online.
5. Types of Visa
- Commonly issued as tourist visas, student visas, or work permits, with varying durations based on purpose.
6. Processing Time
- Visa processing can take from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the application type and nationality.
7. Duration of Stay
- Tourist visas typically allow stays of up to 6 months. Extensions may be available through local immigration offices.
8. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are required, but travel insurance is recommended.
9. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 120V, and plug types A and B (two flat pins) are used. No adapter is needed for devices from North America.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, with 15-20% being standard for good service in restaurants.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Rogers, Bell, and Telus. They can be purchased at stores, offering various prepaid data plans.
6. Driving Side
- In Canada, people drive on the right side of the road.