Canada is an absolute wonderland for outdoor lovers — soaring mountain peaks, dramatic coastlines and massive glaciers mean ample adventure awaits. It’s also a land rich with indigenous culture and history, an exceptional dining and craft drinks scene, plus cutting-edge arts, fashion and more.
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did you know?
Canada is home to the longest highway in the world: The 4,860-mile Trans-Canada Highway.
QUICK GUIDE
WHEN TO GO
Depending on what you plan to do in Canada, any season can be ideal. Winter brings cold temps and snow but is perfect if you’re there for winter sports. Late June through August is warmer, though many destinations see an influx of tourists, particularly in national parks. If you don’t mind cooler temps, fall is ideal, with fewer crowds and more travel deals.
NEED TO KNOW
Money: The local currency is the Canadian dollar ($). The easiest way to obtain currency is to withdraw cash via ATMs, which are widely available. Visas: For current information on passport and visa requirements for entering Canada, visit the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website. Travel Health: Travelers (including Canadian citizens) should check with the Government of Canada for the most current information on who can enter Canada, COVID-19 testing requirements, quarantine requirements, and other COVID-19 impacts on travel within the country. Before traveling, research and prepare for what to do if you get sick while away
GETTING AROUND
Getting Here: Canada’s major airport hubs include Vancouver (YVR), Calgary (YYC), Toronto (YYZ) and Montréal (YUL). Many U.S. travelers enter Canada by car, train (Amtrak) or ferry.
Getting Around: Canada is massive. If you plan to cover great distances, flying is your best bet. Air Canada is the nation’s largest airline. Much of Canada is connected by the government-owned VIA Rail, and traveling by train is picturesque, though schedules can be spotty. Traveling by car is ideal for shorter distances.
LOCAL INTEL
Local Lingo: English and French are Canada’s two official languages; English is the most prevalent of the two. Pick up some common Canadian phrases before your trip, like: Canuck: Slang for Canadian. Eh?: Pronounced “Ay?”, it can serve as “huh”, “right?” and “what?” Ketchup chips: A Canadian food favorite, potato chips covered in a salty ketchup seasoning. Loonie: The Canadian $1 coin.
Must-Have App: Travel Smart
Other Tips: Interested in paleontology? The so-called “Dinosaur Capital of the World” lies an hour and a half outside of Calgary in the Canadian Badlands.