Everything You Need to Know Before You Travel to Canada

Destination Information

Canada, often referred to as the Great White North, offers an array of experiences for tourists. Covering nearly 10 million square kilometers, Canada is known for its stunning natural beauty, with breathtaking landscapes ranging from pristine wilderness and towering mountain ranges to vibrant cities and coastal wonders. For nature enthusiasts, the country provides opportunities for outdoor adventures, including hiking in the Rocky Mountains, exploring the lush forests of British Columbia, and enjoying water-based activities in the many lakes and rivers.

Canada’s cities are vibrant and diverse, with Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary serving as major cultural hubs. Canada is renowned for its friendly and welcoming people, and the country places a strong emphasis on multiculturalism, which is reflected in its diverse food scene. The country is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, providing chances to spot bears, moose, whales, and a variety of bird species. Whether you’re exploring the historic sites of Quebec City, admiring the stunning landscapes of Banff National Park, or immersing yourself in the cultural vibrancy of Toronto, Canada is a remarkable destination for tourists with a rich tapestry of experiences to offer.

Interesting Facts

Canada is a federal country, and it is divided into ten provinces and three territories. These provinces and territories have their own governments with certain powers and responsibilities, while the federal government oversees matters of national importance.
Canada is the second-largest country in the world by land area, covering approximately 9.98 million square kilometers. It’s almost as large as the entire continent of Europe.
Canada has more lakes than the rest of the world’s lakes combined. In fact, it’s estimated to have over 2 million lakes, including the massive Great Lakes.
The town of Churchill in Manitoba is often called the “Polar Bear Capital of the World.” It’s one of the few places where you can see polar bears in the wild.
Canada is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. The Yukon and Northwest Territories offer prime viewing opportunities.
The underground city of Montreal, known as the “Underground City”, is a network of tunnels and complexes that help residents and visitors avoid the cold during harsh winters.

Provinces

International Airports

Population (Million)

Trip Planning

When to Visit

Best Time
Late spring and early fall can offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. If you enjoy warm weather, visit in the Spring/Summer and if you enjoy cold weather, visit in the fall, early or late winter.

Peak Time
June to August is the most popular time to visit many parts of Canada, especially in central and eastern regions.

Cheapest Time
The cheapest times to visit Canada are during the off-peak seasons, which are typically late fall (November) and early spring (March to early May). During these periods, you can often find lower prices on accommodations and airfare. The weather can be unpredictable, so it is less crowded than the peak travel months.

Most Expensive Time
The most expensive months are June to August. During this time, accommodation, airfare, and popular attractions tend to be more costly due to high demand (peak season). Additionally, visiting during major holidays and special events can also lead to higher expenses.

Major Holidays

January
New Year’s Day: January 1

February
Valentine’s Day: February 14
Family Day: Third Monday (varies by Province)
Islander Day: Third Monday (specific to Prince Edward Island)
Louis Riel Day: Third Monday (specific to Manitoba)

March
St. Patrick’s Day: March 17 (Specific to Newfoundland and Labrador)

April
Good Friday: Dates Vary
Easter: Dates Vary

May
Victoria Day: Monday preceding May 25

June
National Aboriginal Day: June 21 (varies by Province)

July
Canada Day: July 1
Orangemen’s Day: July 12 (specific to Newfoundland and Labrador)

August
Civic Holiday: First Monday in August (varies by Province)
Natal Day: First Monday in August (varies by Province)
Gold Cup Parade Day: Third Friday in August (Specific to Prince Edward Island)

September
Labour Day: First Monday

October
Thanksgiving: Second Monday
Halloween: October 31

November
Remembrance Day: November 11 (varies by Province)

December
Christmas Eve: December 24
Christmas: December 25
Boxing Day: December 26
Hanukkah: Dates Vary
New Year’s Eve: December 31
Kwanzaa: December 26 to January 1

Weather

Spring (March to May)
– In southern regions, relatively mild with the melting of snow and the emergence of spring flowers
– In northern and more mountainous areas, snow may persist longer
– Can bring rain and unpredictable weather, including occasional late snowfalls
– Great for outdoor activities like hiking, as nature awakens after the winter

Summer (June to August)
– Warm to hot in many parts, especially in the southern provinces; pleasant temperatures in regions like Ontario and Quebec
– Coastal areas like British Columbia have milder temperatures
– Northern areas may experience shorter but warm summers
– Peak tourist season, great time for outdoor adventures, festivals, and camping

Fall/Autumn (September to November)
– Known for its stunning fall foliage, with vibrant red, orange, and yellow leaves
– Cool and crisp, making it a pleasant time for hiking and other outdoor activities
– Temperatures start to drop, some areas experience early snowfall

Winter (December to February)
– Can be harsh, especially in central and northern regions.
– Extremely cold temperatures and heavy snowfall are common
– Coastal areas may have milder winters, but still experience rain or snow
– Ideal for winter sports enthusiasts, with excellent skiing and snowboarding

Regions with Unique Climates
– Atlantic provinces experience milder winters and cooler summers due to their proximity to the ocean
– Prairie provinces have a continental climate with cold winters and hot, dry summers
– Northern territories have extremely cold winters and shorter, but warm summers

Country Details

Canada
Capital City: Ottawa
Country Code: CA
Calling Code: +1
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Medical, Fire)
Currency: CAD (Canadian Dollar)
Provinces & Territories: 10 provinces, 3 territories

Provinces

Alberta
Capital City: Edmonton
Official Languages: English (87%), French (1%)

British Columbia
Capital City: Victoria
Official Languages: English (73%), Punjabi (3%)

Manitoba
Capital City: Winnipeg
Official Languages: English (87%), Tagalog (2%)

New Brunswick
Capital City: Fredericton
Official Languages: English (68%), French (32%)

Newfoundland and Labrador
Capital City: St. John’s
Official Languages: English (98%)

Nova Scotia
Capital City: Halifax
Official Languages: English (92%)

Ontario
Capital City: Toronto
Official Languages: English (79%), French (4%)

Prince Edward Island
Capital City: Charlottetown
Official Languages: English (93%)

Quebec
Capital City: Quebec City
Official Languages: French (95%)

Saskatchewan
Capital City: Regina
Official Languages: English (85%), Tagalog (2%)

Territories

Northwest Territories
Capital City: Yellowknife
Official Languages: English (70%), Indigenous languages

Nunavut
Capital City: Iqaluit
Official Languages: Inuktitut (65%), English (15%), French (3%)

Yukon
Capital City: Whitehorse
Official Languages: English (89%), French (2%)

Airlines, Alliances & Hubs

Air Canada (AC)
Alliance: Star Alliance
Hubs:
YUL – Montreal
YVR – Vancouver
YYC – Calgary
YYZ – Toronto (Pearson International Airport)

WestJet (WS)
Alliance: No Alliance
Hubs:
YYC – Calgary
YYZ – Toronto (Pearson International Airport)

Air Transat (TS)
Alliance: None
Hub:
YUL – Montreal

Porter Airlines (PD)
Alliance: None
Hub:
YTZ – Toronto (Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport)

FAQs

Do I need a visa to travel to the Canada?
The visa requirements for Canada depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. You may need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). We advise checking the official website of the Government of Canada to read the requirements. If you have additional questions, consult your nearest Canadian embassy or consulate.

Is it customary to tip in Canada?
Yes, tipping is customary in Canada. In restaurants and for various services, it’s common to leave a gratuity of around 15-20% of the bill.

What is the legal drinking age in Canada?
The legal drinking age in Canada varies by province or territory but is 18 or 19 years old.
18 years old: Alberta, Manitoba, Quebec
19 years old: British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan, Yukon

Do I need to rent a car to get around Canada?
Whether you need to rent a car depends on your specific travel plans and the regions you intend to visit. In some cities, such as Toronto, public transportation is sufficient, but for more remote or less urban areas, a rental car may be convenient.

What side of the road do people drive on in Canada?
People drive on the right side of the road. This means that the driver’s seat is on the left side of the vehicle, and vehicles move in the right-hand lane on multi-lane roads. Additionally, the steering wheel of vehicles in Canada is located on the left side of the car.

What is the legal age to rent a car in Canada?
The legal age to rent a car in Canada typically varies between 21 and 25 years old, depending on the rental agency. Some agencies may rent to individuals as young as 18, but additional fees may apply for younger drivers. We recommend checking the requirements for your specific company prior to booking your car.

Are there specific travel restrictions or regulations I should be aware of for Canada?
Travel regulations and restrictions in Canada may vary based on factors such as your country of origin, the purpose of your visit, and the current public health situation. It is advisable to check the official website of the Government of Canada, here.

What is the general etiquette when greeting someone in Canada?
In Canada, a common way to greet someone is with a handshake and a friendly “hello” or “hi.” It’s important to maintain eye contact and offer a friendly demeanor. Canadians are known for their politeness, so saying “please” and “thank you” is appreciated. In more formal settings, you may address someone with their title and last name.

What is the sales tax in Canada?
The sales tax in Canada varies by province and territory. It may include the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and the Provincial Sales Tax (PST), or the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST). Check the specific tax rates for the region you’re visiting here.