Best Destination in Canada (2017)

St. Andrews-by-the-Sea, a National Historic District in New Brunswick, ranks among North America's prettiest and most affluent resort towns. The town comprises 550 buildings, and more than 280 of them were built before 1880. The picturesque community serves as a base for exploring the nearby Bay of Fundy.
Photo courtesy of Thinkstock

Quebec City, the French-speaking capital of the region of the same name, is the only walled city north of Mexico and a cultural hub known for its European flair. Just outside the UNESCO-listed Old City, outdoor attractions await in places like the Plains of Abraham, Montmorency Falls and the scenic St. Lawrence River.
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The colorful seaside village of Lunenburg on the South Shore of Nova Scotia is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site and home of the province's most famous vessel, the Bluenose II. Founded in 1753, the town is remarkably well preserved – its narrow streets lined with original buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.
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Straddling the South Saskatchewan River, Saskatoon is a young and vibrant city, the largest in Saskatchewan and a hub of country and rock 'n' roll music. This four-seasons destination is most popular in the summer months, with long days perfect for exploring river trails or attending one of 40 summer events.
Photo courtesy of Tourism Saskatoon

The island of Newfoundland is home to North America's oldest and most easterly city, St. John's. The provincial capital sits on a sheltered harbor with colorful row houses lining its sloped streets. A visit isn't complete without a hike to nearby Signal Hill, where views extend out over the harbor.
Photo courtesy of Destination St. John's

Visiting Montreal is like going to Europe without the long flight. Considered one of Canada's most diverse cities, Montreal is also the world's second largest French-speaking city and a vibrant cultural center with the largest number of restaurants per resident anywhere in North America. The festival calendar features travel-worthy events like the International Jazz Festival of Montreal and Gardens of Light.
Photo courtesy of Canadian Tourism Commission

Situated several miles southeast of Banff, the town of Canmore is an outdoor adventure hub at the base of the iconic Three Sisters peaks. While an excellent base for exploring Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country, Canmore itself has plenty to offer, including a main street lined with top notch restaurants, shops, galleries and bars.
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Ottawa, the vibrant Canadian capital, is home to Ontario's only UNESCO World Heritage site, the stunning and historic Rideau Canal. Visitors to this urban center can tour the Parliament Buildings, shop along Sparks Street Pedestrian Mall or visit some of the nation's top museums, including the National Gallery of Canada.
Photo courtesy of Ottawa Tourism

Home to one of the world's most famous natural wonders, Niagara has plenty more to offer besides access to the iconic falls. Nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake sits on the shores of Lake Ontario and attracts visitors with its Victorian charm and plentiful wine tasting opportunities.
Photo courtesy of Canadian Tourism Commission

Walk 15 minutes in just about any direction from the town of Banff, and you'll find yourself surrounded by the majestic wilderness of Banff National Park. The resort town and gateway to the surrounding park boasts a surprising number of shops, art galleries, bars and excellent restaurants for its size.
Photo courtesy of Banff & Lake Louise Tourism / Paul Zizka Photography