Canada's best cities ... a quick guide

Local writer Emily Smibert takes escape.com.au for a quick tour of Canada’s four most exciting cities: Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal.

Vancouver has all the perks of the big city with nature on its doorstep. Source: iStock.

A local writer takes Escape for a quick tour of Canada’s four most exciting cities: Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal.

Canada’s diverse cultural mosaic makes it a top destination for city-centred Aussie visitors.

From the picturesque historical district of Montreal to the one-of-a-kind skylines of Vancouver, there are plenty of friendly people to meet, plenty of exciting food to eat and a progressive arts scene to enjoy.

Here’s a quick guide to four of Canada’s most popular cities.

Vancouver

Vancouver is British Columbia’s largest city, a haven for cosmopolitan adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The city is surrounded by water and sits at the foot of the North Shore Mountains, which creates a unique and truly spectacular setting.

The city’s meandering oceanside pathways are the perfect way to explore the city. Be sure to stroll, jog or cycle through the 8.8km paved seawall loop around Stanley Park, one of the world’s greatest urban parks. While you’re there, don’t miss the Vancouver Aquarium, located right in the centre.

Visit the Museum of Anthropology for a tour of world arts and cultures, with a special emphasis on Canadian Indigenous peoples. Art connoisseurs will love the Vancouver Art Gallery, which boasts an impressive collection - plus, for architecture junkies, the gallery is located in a stunning neoclassical courthouse right in the hustle and bustle of Robson Street - the heart of the shopping district.

Grouse Mountain, the city’s most popular tourist attraction (and the only true four-season destination) offers a wildlife refuge, numerous dining options, seasonal activities and more. If you’re feeling brave, the 2.9km Grouse Grind hiking trail offers a 853-metre climb to the top of the mountain.

Grouse Mountain is the perfect spot for a scenic adventure. Source: iStock.

It may test the limits of your thighs, but rest assured the view is worth it.

Calgary

Calgary has a small-town heart and big-city diversions. Between Inglewood’s historic neighbourhood charm, street festivals, nightlife and all things outdoors just a few steps away, this city is truly special. 

Need proof? Every July the Calgary Stampede transforms the city into a Wild West-inspired playground. Dust off your cowboy boots, don a bolo tie, and try the latest crazy food creations. Deep fried chocolate bar, anyone?

Calgary transforms into a Wild West playground every July. Source: Canadian Tourism Commission.

Home to the 1988 Olympic Winter Games, Olympic Park is open year-round and offers a variety of activities including downhill mountain biking, mini golf, a Children’s Activity Centre, zipline, bobsleigh, ice skating, skiing and snowboarding. Don’t forget to check out the Canada Sports Hall of Fame while you’re here.

The other must-do is viewing the distinctive landscape from the Calgary Tower. A landmark of the city, it offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and prairies.

Toronto

The epicentre of Canadian urban life, Toronto has everything you would expect from a world-class city. 

Enjoy modern cuisine on Queen Street West before cheering on a local baseball, basketball or ice hockey team. Shop the latest trends in one of Yorkville’s many boutiques, wander the 120 artisan and merchant vendors at the St. Lawrence Market, or lose yourself in the urban maze of street art in Graffiti Alley on your way to Kensington Market. 

An unknown treasure to many (and merely a 10-minute ferry ride or private water taxi across the harbour), the Toronto Islands offer the perfect city escape. From tree-filled picnic spots and car-free streets to an amusement park, you’ll not want to catch the ferry back. Here you’ll also find the best view of the city’s skyline, with the famous CN Tower at its heart. 

Toronto Island is a little-known treasure just 10 minutes from the CBD by ferry. Source: Canadian Tourism Commission.

Toronto’s historic Distillery District, which includes 44 heritage buildings and numerous brick-lined courtyards, is perfect for year-round exploring.  Many restaurants, art galleries, artisan boutiques, specialty retail stores and events including the famed Christmas Market and festival of lights await. Looking for the perfect photo op? The Distillery District’s padlock LOVE sign and outdoor sculptures won’t disappoint.

Montreal

Montreal is a city best explored on foot. As you meander your way through the cobblestone roads of Old Montreal, you’ll find yourself marveling at architectural gems such as the iconic Notre-Dame Basilica, a marvel of Gothic Revival architecture, and Place Jacques-Cartier, an entrance to Montreal’s Old Port. 

Once you make it to Rue St. Paul, pick a hole-in-the-wall cafe or a bar to relax, people-watch and refuel before heading into one of many trinket shops. 

Old Montreal is definitely best explored on foot. Source: Canadian Tourism Commission.

Further away from the St. Lawrence River is Montreal’s namesake: the magnificent Mont Royal. 

Hike up to Belvedere Lookout for a view of the city or a picnic at its base before moving onto St. Laurent Boulevard—the city’s wine and dine street (Schwartz’s Deli is an institution). Head further inland to try a Montreal bagel (entirely different from its New York counterpart) at either Fairmont or St-Viateur. 

For music buffs, the annual Montreal International Jazz Festival and popular winter sensation IglooFest will not disappoint. 

No matter which city (or cities) you visit, you’ll find something unique. Canada’s big cities offer an exciting mix of culture, language and cuisine with plenty of gems to discover.

Canada is home to many unique experiences. From the one-of-a-kind Vancouver cityscape to the bit heart of Calgary, vibrant energy of Toronto and quaint streets of Montreal, there is plenty to explore. Explore more.

Originally published as Canada's best cities ... a quick guide