Whether it’s the winter, spring, or summer that you’re visiting, there’s no denying the beauty of Canada’s offerings. Comprising a total of 10 provinces and three (3) territories, there’s no shortage of Canadian cities to visit and things to do.
While we’re known largely for our winters, our summers are just as good, if not better… If you’re lucky enough to have the autonomy to choose when to visit, the summer months are the superior choice!
With that said, in this article, we’ll share with you the best Canadian cities to visit this summer or any summer for that matter. It goes without saying that each city discussed in this article is a beautiful destination no matter when you visit. However, who doesn’t want to explore when the sun is shining, and the temperatures are hot?!
Below are the top five (5) Canadian cities to visit in the summer!
- Montreal, QC
- Toronto, ON
- Calgary, AB
- Victoria, BC
- Charlottetown, PEI
Montreal, QC
Located about 250km east of Quebec’s capital city sits the more popular city of the two… Montreal! If it’s culture, cuisine, and bilingual conversation that you’re after, Montreal is the city for you.
While it’s just as beautiful during the winter months, Montreal is an incredible city for exploratory walking, allowing you to truly ingest all that it has to offer its guests. From summer festivals and outdoor patio pints to historic hikes and culinary heroics at some of the best restaurants in Canada, Montreal won’t disappoint.
It’s a European masterpiece of a city that just so happens to be found in the country of Canada; no need to worry about that costly overseas plane ticket! If that’s not unique, I don’t know what is!
Some must do Montreal Experiences
Toronto, ON
Often described as the New York of Canada, Toronto is as popular a destination as any for those looking to travel to Canada, especially during the summer months due to its action-packed, event-intensive schedule.
First, it’s arguably the biggest sports city in the country. With three 3 major sports teams in the Toronto Blue Jays (MLB), Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL), and the Toronto Raptors (NBA), there’s no shortage of sporting events to go to.
Second, when there are no games scheduled, the sports stadiums themselves are typically sold out by major music concerts by the likes of the largest musical talent the world has to offer.
Lastly, when in Toronto, you can’t forget about the party scene. From beach festivals to rooftop cabana parties, you’ll have no trouble making the most of those summer evenings. Oh, and be sure to snap a picture or two of the CN Tower at night; it’s awe-inspiring, to say the least…
Popular Toronto Tours
Calgary, AB
There’s nothing quite like summer in Alberta, whether in Edmonton, Calgary, or elsewhere… As the sunniest city in Canada, it makes sense to put Calgary atop your list of Canadian destinations to visit during the summer!
Withstanding its evident weather, Calgary also boasts the largest trail network in all of North America; for those who enjoy walking and hiking, I think I’ve just made your decision on which city to visit.
Finally, we can’t forget the Calgary Stampede… Self-proclaimed as the greatest outdoor event in the world, the Calgary Stampede is a 10-day all-encompassing event that includes musical concerts, food and beverage vendors, a rodeo, and much more. Set around the beginning to the middle of July annually, be sure to schedule your trip around these dates, for you won’t want to miss it!
Victoria, BC
While it might come as somewhat of a surprise to see Victoria on the list rather than Vancouver, Victoria is undeniably beautiful, especially in the summer months. Not only is it just an hour’s ferry ride from the big city, which has its own benefits, but it boasts more natural landscapes than any other city in British Columbia (don’t ask a BC native, you might start an argument!).
From summer festivals and sandy beach strolls to forest hikes and ocean kayaking excursions, the options of what to do here in Victoria during the summer months are endless.
Charlottetown, PEI
Last but certainly not least is Prince Edward Island, the smallest of the provinces discussed in this article. As such, you’ll likely have time to explore the entirety of this beautiful province should your trip be long enough. With that said, its capital city is Charlottetown, so let’s discuss…
If you know anything about PEI, you’ve likely heard of Cavendish… if not, while it’s a resort town in PEI, it’s much, much more! From its beaches and historic cultural sites to its famed music festival called Cavendish Beach Music Festival, it’s likely where you’ll want to spend most of your time…
Apart from that, PEI is unique in that it’s primarily farmland, boasting incredible open landscapes and beaches. Go kayaking, hiking, or driving through the long-stretched roads off the beaten path.
Whatever you choose to do, even if it’s absolutely nothing, you’ll surely enjoy every second of it!
Your Canadian Summer Vacay Awaits!
Whether you’re already in the midst of planning your Canadian excursion or if you’re still in the consideration stages of planning, you’re likely still pondering what time of year is best to explore this amazing country… If so, you might want to consider the summer months which typically span from June to September!
While it’s the peak season for most provinces, and though the prices may be somewhat inflated. As a result, the cost of a Canadian summer is more than worth it in the end. Sure, Canada is a winter wonderland that is beautiful in its own right… But, who are we kidding?! Summer is the best season of them all, no matter which country you’re visiting!
While the above cities are certainly some of the best for summer travel, there’s certainly more where that came from!
More Canada Travel Guides and Trip Ideas from DiscoverCanada.Blog
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A Detailed Guide to Exploring Vancouver Island in Summer and beyond
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