10 Must-Visit Canadian Destinations for Your Summer Getaway

Canada is filled with beautiful destinations just waiting to be explored. This summer, why not venture beyond Quebec and discover the incredible diversity our country has to offer? Whether you’re an avid hiker, a culture enthusiast, or simply in search of unforgettable scenery, there’s so much to experience—no passport needed.

 

Why Explore Canada This Summer? 

Travelling to another province is a great way to experience new cultures, taste regional cuisines, and gain a deeper appreciation for Canada’s rich and varied landscapes. From the charm of the Atlantic coast to the awe-inspiring North, exploring Canada means discovering something new, without the need for currency exchange or international travel. 

 

1. Kluane, Yukon — Adventure at Canada’s Summit

Kluane National Park is home to Mount Logan, Canada’s highest peak. In the summer, its rugged trails wind through glacial valleys, boreal forests, and vast wilderness areas teeming with wildlife. It’s a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude and adventure. 

 

2. Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia — Colourful, Creative, Coastal

Nestled on Nova Scotia’s scenic South Shore, Mahone Bay charms with its colourful homes, artisan shops, and cozy cafés. Just a short drive away, the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg invites you to step into the region’s rich maritime history. 

 

3. Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta — Experience Unforgettable Beauty on the Trails

Located in southern Alberta, Waterton Lakes National Park offers a dramatic blend of mountain peaks, clear alpine lakes, and vibrant wildflower meadows. Ideal for hikers and photographers alike, the park is a hidden gem for those looking for natural beauty off the beaten path. 

 

4. Manitoulin Island, Ontario — Tranquility and Indigenous Heritage

The world’s largest freshwater island, Manitoulin, is a place where nature and Anishinaabe culture come together in harmony. Spend your days cycling along quiet roads, swimming in pristine lakes, and immersing yourself in the rich traditions of local First Nations through community events and cultural centres. 

 

5. Fundy, New Brunswick — Towering Tides and Coastal Wonders

Home to the world’s highest tides, Fundy National Park is a striking mix of dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and picturesque beaches. Visit Hopewell Rocks to see the iconic flowerpot formations shaped by centuries of tidal erosion. It’s a perfect spot for hiking, birdwatching, and reconnecting with nature. 

 

6. Yellowknife, Northwest Territories — Arctic Days Full of Light

In Yellowknife, summer means nearly 24 hours of daylight, allowing for non-stop adventure. From paddling on Great Slave Lake to enjoying local festivals and markets, the city offers a lively cultural scene set against the backdrop of the vast northern wilderness. Just don’t forget your sleeping mask! 

 

7. Elora, Ontario — Where Nature and Culture Meet

Known for its dramatic limestone gorge and scenic river, Elora is a picturesque village full of charm. Go tubing through the gorge, browse local art galleries, or enjoy live music on a sunny patio. This creative community blends nature and culture in all the right ways. 

 

8. Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan — A Vast Prairie Wilderness

With its vast plains, rugged badlands, and roaming bison, Grasslands National Park delivers a true prairie wilderness experience. It’s also a stargazer’s paradise, offering spectacular, unobstructed views of the night sky. 

 

9. Twillingate, Newfoundland and Labrador — Experience the Magic of Iceberg Alley

Every summer, massive icebergs drift past this charming fishing village. Explore coastal trails, take a boat tour, and enjoy the famed warmth of Newfoundland hospitality—all set against a stunning, postcard-perfect coastline. 

 

10. Victoria-by-the-Sea, Prince Edward Island — Seaside Serenity

This tiny seaside village is big on charm. With its boutique theatres, artisan shops, and quiet beaches, Victoria-by-the-Sea is the perfect place to slow down and savour the moment. Experience Prince Edward Island at its most peaceful. 

 

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance 

When you leave Quebec, your RAMQ coverage becomes limited. That’s why it’s essential to plan for travel insurance, even when you’re vacationing within Canada. 

Québec Blue Cross travel insurance is designed to cover you during local getaways, with exclusive rates for travel within Canada. Choose the coverage that suits your plans, including: 

• Emergency Medical Care: Up to $5,000,000 in coverage for unexpected illness or injury.

• Trip Cancellation and Interruption: Get reimbursed if your trip is cancelled or interrupted, with an optional Cancel for Any Reason add-on for extra flexibility. 

• Baggage: Coverage for baggage delay, loss, theft, or damage. 

• Accidental Death or Dismemberment: Up to $300,000 in benefits in case of serious accident or death.

You’ll also enjoy Flight Delay Service and 24/7 travel assistance, included at no extra cost. 

 

Time to Pack and Explore

Canada is vast, diverse, and full of unforgettable places to discover. This summer, whether you’re planning a road trip, a coastal retreat, or a cultural adventure, each province offers something new to experience.