Looking for budget-friendly vacation options in Canada? Want to find affordable weekend escape destinations in your province? In this post, we have collected ten of the most interesting yet affordable locations you can visit for a summer or winter vacation. Check them out and decide where to go first!
Fundy National Park, New Brunswick
Fundy National Park is the top choice for the most cost-effective summer holiday spots in Canada. If you enjoy being outdoors, this is a location you shouldn’t miss. Since 1950, this location has been considered one of the best tourist destinations along the Bay of Fundy.
The national park boasts a range of beautiful terrains, including forests, waterfalls, and shorelines. The park features a lovely boardwalk that is ideal for wildlife observation. Raccoons, woodpeckers, shrews, and great blue herons are some of the animals that live in the region.
There are also numerous hiking trails waiting to be explored.
Edmonton, Alberta
Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, is famous for its Indigenous activities among other attractions. You are likely to get a lasting experience, especially if you visit on some holiday or celebration.
A big city, Edmonton offers something to everyone’s taste – museums, shopping malls, sports events, festivals and fairs, and different events. In terms of affordability, there are plenty of really inexpensive or even no-cost activities and entertainment – for example, the Neon Sign Museum.
Edmonton has a convenient and affordable public transportation system and many affordable lodging options.
Jasper National Park, Alberta
Jasper National Park is a top spot in Canada in terms of beautiful views. It is a must-see destination for all travelers. This is the largest national park in the Alberta Rocky Mountains and spans over 4,000 square miles.
Besides beautiful mountains, the park offers lots of options for watching wildlife if this is what you enjoy doing. The animals that can be seen there are bears, moose, elk, mountain goats, and wolves.
Traveling to Jasper National Park during the summer is a budget-friendly choice in Canada, costing about $60 per person per day (meaning you can even easily pay for your vacation from winnings from the best payout online casinos).
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Winnipeg is known worldwide for its winter sports and generally for winter activity options. During the summer, however, Winnipeg, the capital city of Manitoba, offers plenty of attractions to explore as well. Visitors can check out museums, Assiniboine Park, and a historic Hudson Bay Company trading fort.
Travelers also have the option to save money on their meals by selecting from a range of excellent but affordable dining spots. One of the interesting options is the Paterson GlobalFoods Institute which offers budget-friendly and healthy food.
Muskoka Lakes, Ontario
This is one of the most budget-friendly places in Canada for summer vacation. There are many smaller and bigger villages around the Muskoka Lakes, so it is possible to rent accommodation right next to the lake and enjoy the view 24/7. The sunrises and sunsets on the Lakes are among the best views and are also very Instagrammable.
The destination is ideal for romantic and family trips and offers mostly relaxation and a slow pace. Of course, if you want an activity, you will find it. There are options for hiking, cycling, picnicking, and wildlife and bird watching.
Sent John, New Brunswick
Saint John in Canada is also a budget-friendly place to visit. The best way to explore North America’s oldest city is by simply wandering around the Saint John City Market.
A range of complimentary options are available, such as exploring the paths at Irving Nature Park and observing the highest tides globally in the Bay of Fundy. Moreover, there are plenty of inexpensive accommodation options.
Murray Beach, New Brunswick
Murray Beach in Canada is an affordable option for summer getaways, especially for those looking for peaceful spots. The city is extremely charming, mesmerizing every visitor as soon as they arrive.
There are many things to do in this location, like swimming, kayaking, and taking in the stunning mountain views. The beaches are clean and convenient and all visitors can enjoy beautiful views.
Calgary, Alberta
Calgary is a fantastic destination for tourists, featuring numerous green parks, various cultural activities, and stunning attractions, like the famous Calgary Stampede.
Tourists can easily plan a cost-effective trip to Calgary, one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Canada. Moreover, many notable UNESCO sites surround this city in Canada, making it an ideal hub for day trips. Calgary is also known for its numerous accommodation options for any budget size.
Quebec City, Quebec
A trip to Quebec City is a must for all Canadians. Travelers are most drawn to the colonial charm of the city, encountering cobblestone streets, cathedrals, and many other historic buildings.
In summer, there are numerous low-cost or free things to do, like joining a free walking tour of the Old City, dining at affordable restaurants, and experiencing Quebec’s nightlife. Quebec is noticeably more cost-effective compared to Montreal (19% less expensive) which makes it a great weekend escape destination.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Choose to skip busy cities like Toronto and instead spend your summer vacation in Halifax, a must-do while in Nova Scotia.
The city provides a wide range of affordable or cost-free activities to partake in and is known for its vibrant, friendly, and engaging atmosphere. Walk along the charming waterside walkway in Halifax, decorated with restaurants, landmarks, art displays, and various other points of interest.
You can visit the Halifax Citadel, an impressive Victorian structure and National Historic Site worth exploring. Other recommended spots to visit include the Seaport Farmers’ Market, Pier 21, and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.