Iconic Canada: the experiences that should be on everyone’s bucket list

Everyone has one dream experience that involves Canada.

Me? I’m desperate to travel to Churchill to finally see the polar bears I’ve been obsessing over since childhood, but I know someone who feels the same way about riding the Rocky Mountaineer.

Others might want to see Niagara Falls or perhaps just go to an ice hockey game.

READ MORE: The truth about a holiday in the Northern Territory

Whatever your dream, here’s a list of iconic Canadian experiences to get the planning started.

Hiking in Banff National Park

Visiting Canada between July and September? Strap on your hiking boots and head to Banff National Park, home to over 1,600 kilometres of hiking trails. We’re not talking any old trails, but those that weave their around towering glaciers, fields of wildflowers, high alpine passes and waterfalls.

Vista Lake and Sunshine Meadows aren’t to be missed, and of course neither are Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. While the northern summer is peak hiking, there’s no reason you can’t hike a little earlier or later in the year before it gets a little chilly. 

Ten incredible cruise destinations to add to your bucket list

Visiting Niagara Falls

Straddling the border between Canada and the United States, it doesn’t get any more iconic than visiting Niagara Falls – a breathing series of majestic waterfalls. There are several ways to experience this landmark – by booking a cruise such as those offered by Niagara City Cruises, by booking a helicopter tour so you can watch the action from overhead, or by walking behind them. The Journey Behind the Falls provides an excellent vantage point – particularly from the observation deck. 

READ MORE: Australia’s most popular road trip has been revealed in new survey

Skiing (or snowboarding) Whistler

She’s North America’s premier ski resort for a reason, offering more than 8,000 acres and 200+ marked trains for all abilities. We’re not going to lie – such popularity can also mean shelling out big bucks but if you book Whistler early in the season, consider a pre-Christmas trip instead of post-Christmas or go in spring, you could consider yourself quite a bit of cash. Whistler Blackcomb has one of the longest ski seasons around, stretching into May. 

Exploring Old Quebec City

A destination that’s every bit as French as it is Canadian? In the heart of the country’s French-speaking province sits Old Quebec City, a charming wonderworld of cobblestone streets and historic architecture. Experience the magnificent French culture by visiting landmarks like Chateau Frontenac and the Dufferin Terrace and by shopping Rue du Petit-Champlain – considered one of the most charming streets in Canada. Prefer company? You can book a walking tour to make the most of your time here. 

Cruising the Inside Passage

Do yourself a favour and book a 7-Day voyage (at least) with Holland America Line, which has been specialising in cruising the Inside Passage since what feels like the dawn of time. Sailing the spectacular coastal landscapes of British Columnia, you can expect a glacier-heavy itinerary with a strong side serve of wildlife spotting and charming coastal towns. 

Discovering the Canadian Rockies by train

Fancy a scenic rail journey which is as much about luxurious onboard service as it is about taking in breathtaking views of lush mountains, forests and lakes? The Rocky Mountaineer offers four distinct rail routes: Rockies to the Red Rocks, First Passage to the West, Journey through the Clouds and Rainforest to Gold Rush, while passengers can choose between Silver Leaf Service or Gold Leaf Service. Either way, you’ve got a glass domed carriage, gourmet cuisine and beverages and engaging hosts as you see the best of Canada. 

Viewing the Northern Lights 

Some destinations have the Northern Lights at certain times of the year, but in Churchill, they can be seen most of the year. That said, January to March, with its cold weather and longer nights, serves up the best chance to see them. Book a tour through Discover Churchill and remember that this is one of the best places to see polar bears so why not book a separate polar bear tour while you’re here? 

Strolling Stanley Park

What’s not to love about a nine-kilometre paved pathway that traces the coastline of Vancouver’s celebrated park? Go on foot or hire a bike – just be sure to stop occasionally and take in the sight of seaplanes landing in the harbour and the towering mountains of the North Shore.

Need a few more suggestions? Be sure to: