Most travelers need either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada. U.S. citizens only need a valid passport. Requirements vary by country, so check the official Canadian government website before your trip.
Authentic Canadian food is known for its rich variety and unique flavors. Must-try dishes include poutine (fries with cheese curds and gravy), tourtière (a traditional French-Canadian meat pie), Montreal smoked meat sandwiches, and Halifax donair. Canada is also famous for its maple syrup, which is used in breakfasts, desserts, and even savory dishes, as well as its world-renowned ice wine, mostly produced in Ontario’s Niagara region.
For a first trip, 4 to 6 days is a good amount of time to explore either western Canada—such as Vancouver, Banff, and Jasper—or eastern Canada, including Toronto, Niagara Falls, Montreal, and Quebec City. This allows you to experience the main highlights without feeling rushed, though longer stays of 7–10 days offer a deeper experience if you have more time.
The best time to visit Canada is from May to October, when the weather is pleasant and most attractions are open. Winter (November to February) is ideal for fewer crowds and unique experiences like skiing and winter festivals, especially in places like Banff and Quebec City. If you want to see the Northern Lights, the best time to visit Yellowknife is from mid-August to the end of April, with peak viewing between mid-November and early April, when the skies are darkest and the aurora is most active.
Most travelers need either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada. U.S. citizens only need a valid passport. Requirements vary by country, so check the official Canadian government website before your trip.
