Spreading across 5 time zones, 10 provinces and having more than 90% of the population live in 4 major cities, Canada is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes. As a solo traveller finding places to explore in Canada might be daunting just cause of the sheer distance.
Canada is one of the most diverse countries, boasting natural beauty, coast to coast, culture in every section of the country and food from different parts of the world.
To get the full value of Canada, living like locals and exploring like a local, I would recommend living in hostels. To get the best hostels for you, contact Hostelmatch at info@hostelmatch.com or DM us on our Instagram page.
Here are my top 7 places to visit as a solo traveller in Canada:
Montreal, Quebec
In the French speaking province of Quebec, Montreal is bilingual; making it easy for travellers to meet new people and explore freely. Montreal will make you feel like you are in Europe, with fun activities happening on the streets and the cobbled stone architecture of old Montreal.
While you are in Montreal, I highly recommend you going to Mount Royal for the beautiful views, Old Montreal for the vibe, St. Laurent Street to party and eat lots of poutine – Canada’s national dish!
Vancouver, British Columbia
One of the most beautiful cities not just in Canada but in the world. Vancouver is paradise for those who love nature. Travellers can find numerous hikes; bike around Stanley Park and even go to English Bay to take a dip in the water.
The Asian food scene in Vancouver is unbeatable. Vancouver is second to Japan for its sushi – so it is a must try for you. If you are looking to unwind and explore the city and yet have a good time, Vancouver is the place for you.
Toronto, Ontario
Being the biggest and the most multi-cultural city in Canada, you can never get bored in Toronto. Kensington Market and St. Lawrence market are a must see in Toronto while you can go to the islands for kayaking.
Toronto has great bars and restaurants, and you will make lots of new friends. If you want to venture outside the city, Niagara Falls is close by offering stunning views and winery’s to try from.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Halifax is not as big of a city as compared to some of the other ones in Canada but is home to the Titanic Museum and the most modern library in Canada. Their boardwalk views are better than most other cities and you can expect some delicious food and ice-cream in the city.
Harbour Hoppers is unique – a war bus that turns into a boat for tourists to explore the city holistically. Peggy’s Cove and Lunenberg are near Halifax and a quick drive around those areas will score you some fantastic views.
Rockies, Alberta
Cities: Banff, Lake Louis, Canmore, Jasper
If you have come to Canada and not visited the Rockies, have you even visited? The Rockies is the most beautiful place not just in Canada but arguably in the world as well. If you enjoy hiking and winter/summer sports, this is the spot for you.
The hostels here are vibrant and social allowing you to meet travellers and you will always have some place to explore. These towns are unique, and their vibe is what makes the Rockies one of the most popular solo travelling destinations in Canada.
“The Icefields Parkway is not particularly long — 233 kilometers from Jasper to Lake Louise — and is easy to do in one direction in a day, even with all the stops. And it’s these stops that make it perfect for a solo traveler. You’ll never have a chance to get bored on this drive, because there are constantly places you’ll want to get out of the car to take photos and explore off the road. And then, regardless of which direction you go, you’ll find friendly towns with lots of other travellers at the end of the road trip, in Jasper or Banff National Parks.” — Michael of Time Travel Turtle
Eastern Newfoundland
Cities: St.John’s, Twillgate, Deer Lake
Eastern newfoundland boasts of natural landscapes like nothing you have seen in Canada. St. Johns is colourful and the neighbourhoods of Signal Hill and Quidi Vidi are a must see. If you enjoy the water, take a boat ride to see whales and icebergs and enjoy the uniqueness of it all. This is a superb place to immerse yourself in Eastern Canada’s robust culture. Locals here are extremely friendly, so you likely won’t feel so alone.
Gros Morne and the area around it is famous for its hikes, the views from there are impeccable. “For the outdoorsy solo traveler, check out the East Coast Trail, which stretches a whopping 336km [209 miles] along the eastern coastline of Newfoundland. You can hike it in chunks or embark on a rugged backpacking journey along any of the 25 wilderness trails.” – Be My Travel Muse
Sunshine Coast, British Columbia
There are beautiful cabins and trails that will keep you exploring. With the possibility of seeing whales and other animals and lush bluer water, this coast is the best place to wander into.
“The Sunshine Coast is made up of lots of small towns and even more lakes. Getting around is the only stumbling block for solo travellers, as the bus service isn’t that well connected. However, that really isn’t an issue, because the types of travellers that hit the Coast in BC are relaxed, friendly, and always willing to take others along with them on their trip.” - Gemma of Two Scots Abroad
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