Eastern Canada
Québec City, Québec
Québec City is the capital of the province of Québec and has a population of over 700,000, making it the eighth-largest city in Canada. It is one of the oldest cities in the country, steeped in history. Since Québec was originally a French colony, French is the primary language here, though most residents are bilingual in French and English.
Strategically located along the St. Lawrence River, Québec City was once an important military base and home to La Citadelle de Québec. The city is divided into the historic Old Québec and the surrounding modern city, with most tourist attractions concentrated in the Old Town.
The Old Town, shaped like a triangle, is bordered by the river on two sides and enclosed by city walls on the landward side. It’s compact and can be explored in a day. The Old Town itself is divided into the Upper Town and Lower Town. The Upper Town features cobblestone streets and a French atmosphere, reminiscent of Paris, with government, commercial, and residential areas. You can move between the Upper and Lower Towns via winding slopes, by car, or on a modern funicular.
The Lower Town, located along the St. Lawrence River, has docks, shops, and old warehouses that were once used for processing goods transported on the river. Must-visit landmarks include the Château Frontenac Hotel, a grand structure built in the late 19th century by the Canadian Pacific Railway, and Place Royale, the historic gathering spot of the first French settlers, along with Notre-Dame-des-Victoires Church.
Travel Tips
Québec City is relatively small, and two days, including travel time, should suffice. Staying at a hotel near the Old Town ensures that most attractions are within walking distance.
Montréal, Québec
Also located in Québec, Montréal was once Canada’s largest and most prosperous city until it was overtaken by Toronto in recent decades. With a population of about 3.5 million, Montréal is now the second-largest city in Canada. It flourished during its heyday, hosting events like the Olympics and the World Expo.
Situated on the vast island of Montréal at the confluence of the Ottawa and St. Lawrence Rivers, Montréal resembles Chongqing in its geography.
The Old Montréal district, located along the St. Lawrence River, is a must-see. Like Québec City, it features cobblestone streets and French architecture. In summer and autumn, you can enjoy an afternoon tea at a street café, soaking in the Parisian vibe. The Bonsecours Market and the nearby waterfront are major attractions, offering a Ferris wheel with city views, a science museum, and various food and entertainment options.
Not to be missed is the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal, a sister church to Paris’s Notre-Dame. It opens for free public tours at scheduled times each day.
The river also features two small islands with remnants of the Expo and Olympics, including the Biosphere Environmental Museum, originally the U.S. Pavilion. This geodesic dome, once covered with glass panels that melted in a fire, now stands as an open framework. Its futuristic design offers a glimpse of life in a self-contained habitat on another planet. You can reach this area by taking Metro Line 4.
For panoramic city views, drive to Mount Royal, the city’s highest point. Here you’ll find the majestic Saint Joseph’s Oratory, a multi-level architectural masterpiece that blends art and science. The top-tier cathedral often hosts organ performances that are deeply moving.
Travel Tips
Montréal is larger and busier than Québec City, so allocate three days, including travel. With multiple metro lines, both Old Montréal and the newer districts are convenient places to stay.
Ottawa, Ontario
Travel about 200 km west from Montréal along the Ottawa River, and you’ll reach Ottawa, Canada’s capital city. With a population nearing one million, Ottawa is the sixth-largest city in Canada.
As the political hub of the country, Ottawa’s centerpiece is Parliament Hill. Free guided tours of the Parliament building are available, but tickets are distributed daily in limited quantities. Arrive early to secure your spot and plan your visit around the scheduled tour time.
Beyond Parliament Hill, Ottawa offers several museums, such as the Bank of Canada Museum, which is perfect for family trips. Admission is free, and the exhibits cover the evolution of currency and provide children with an understanding of money. Personalized experiences are made possible by electronic wristbands.
Travel Tips
Ottawa is relatively compact, and two days, including travel, are sufficient. Hotels in the city center are reasonably priced, and most attractions are within walking distance.
Toronto, Ontario
The Greater Toronto Area has a population of approximately 5.5 million, making it Canada’s most populous and bustling region. Toronto is also the provincial capital of Ontario. Unlike Montréal and Québec City, it lacks French influences, focusing instead on modern attractions.
For independent travelers, purchasing a City Pass is a good idea, as it allows access to multiple major attractions at a discount.
Toronto’s most iconic landmark is the CN Tower, located downtown near Lake Ontario. Its observation deck offers sweeping views of the city and lake, and on clear days, you can see across the lake into New York State. During summer, you can also visit the adjacent Rogers Centre, where baseball games are held. The stadium’s retractable roof adds to its appeal.
Casa Loma, a castle north of the city center, is another must-visit. Beyond its gardens and lavish interiors, climb the mysterious towers for an even more immersive experience.
Travel Tips
Toronto is expansive, so plan for three days to fully explore. Accommodation options vary widely, catering to all budgets. Public transportation is extensive, so driving is not necessary.
Niagara Falls
Considered a nearby attraction from Toronto, Niagara Falls is about 130 km south by car. As a natural border between Canada and the United States, the falls attract countless visitors.
There are two main waterfalls: the American Falls and the Horseshoe Falls, the latter straddling the border. While the American Falls lie entirely in the U.S., the best views are from Canada, especially from Queen Victoria Park or a boat ride close to the falls.
Travel Tips
Niagara Falls is best experienced over two days. Arrive on the first day to see the falls during the day, take a boat tour, and enjoy the nighttime light show. Stay overnight and explore the falls again in the morning before returning to Toronto or continuing to your next destination.