Begin your Canadian adventure with a visit to CN Tower, the iconic 553-meter high tower that is symbolic of Toronto's skyline. Check out the glass floor and edge walk if you're brave enough. Next, head to St. Lawrence Market for a taste of diverse and delicious food.
In Montreal, spend your morning at the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, a Gothic revival church that is a feast for the eyes with its intricate wood carvings and magnificent stained glass windows. After lunch, head to Mount Royal Park for a panoramic view of Montreal's skyline. Board an evening train from Montreal to Ottawa, the nation's capital, and explore the Parliament Hill and National Gallery of Canada.
Step back in time with a visit to Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is celebrated for its gorgeous architecture, cobbled streets, and a fortress that reveals the city's military history. Stroll through the vibrant and colorful buildings of Rue du Tresor, enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride, and sample Quebec's famous poutine.
The ultimate Canadian Rockies experience awaits you in Edmonton, the historic capital of the Canadian province of Alberta. The Rocky Mountaineer Train Station will take you through the beautiful mountains with stunning views, snow-capped peaks and turquoise waters of Maligne Lake. Don't forget to sample Edmonton's famous "Maple Syrup & Bacon" doughnuts.
Last Stop: the coastal seaport city of Vancouver. Take a scenic bike ride or a leisurely walk along the famous Seawall for beautiful waterfront views of the city and mountains. Visit the Granville Island Public Market for a wide variety of fresh produce and local specialties. Order a cup of fresh coffee and walk to the edge of the city to end your trip on a beautiful note at Stanley Park.
To save money, the best form of transportation is travel via train so that you maximize your sightings of scenic views along Canada's landscape, and your carbon footprint is kinder. Using public transport within the cities you stop in is also quite affordable. Be prepared for long train rides, so if you can handle it, go for economy class. The entire trip can take five to seven days, and you should book your train tickets in advance.
If you have more time, explore the regions beyond the cities featured. For example, a visit to Banff National Park offers scenic lakes, lush forests, and rugged mountain ranges with various options for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. On the other hand, if you have less time, you can shorten your itinerary and focus on those things that tickle your fancy. Alternatively, adjust your entire itinerary to just explore the western region of the country or the east, depending on where your heart desires to go.
The name of the primary airport in Toronto is Pearson International Airport (YYZ). It is 22.5 km from downtown and can be reached through public buses, taxis, car rentals or your preferred ride-hailing service. The airport in Vancouver is the Vancouver International Airport (YVR), and it is located 12 km away from the city center. Various transportation means city taxis, buses, and Skytrain can get you there.