Canada rewards road trips and big landscapes: mountain lakes, wild coast and friendly cities. Distances are long, so choose one region and take your time.
Quick facts
- Getting there: Vancouver (YVR), Toronto (YYZ) and Calgary (YYC) are the main gateways.
- Best months: June to September for hiking and lakes, and December to March for skiing. Late September brings autumn colour in the east.
- Time needed: 7 to 14 days.
- Currency: Canadian dollar (CAD).
A simple first route
- Vancouver (2 to 3 nights): Stanley Park, the waterfront and day trips to the coast.
- Banff and Jasper (4 to 5 nights): Lake Louise, glaciers and wildlife along the Icefields Parkway.
- Optional: Toronto and Niagara (3 nights): a city break with a classic waterfall day trip.
Money-saving tips
- Book Rockies hotels and rental cars early for July and August, when prices peak.
- Stay in nearby towns rather than inside the busiest parks.
- A park pass is cheaper than single entries if you visit several national parks.
- Prices shown are before tax and tip, so budget a little extra.
- Get mobile data before you land for maps and bookings.
Prices, schedules and entry rules change. Always confirm with airlines, hotels and official sources before booking.