Dreaming of exploring Canada this year? You’re not alone. Every year, Travel + Leisure – one of the world’s most respected travel publications – unveils its World’s Best Awards, where readers vote on their favourite destinations based on sights, culture, food, friendliness, shopping, and value.

For 2025, travellers cast over 657,000 votes across more than 8,700 entries, and the results are in: these are the top cities to visit in Canada this year.

Canada’s Top 5 Cities in 2025

According to Travel + Leisure readers, here are the best cities to visit in Canada in 2025, ranked by traveller experience:

Rank	City	Province	Reader Score
1	Quebec City	Quebec	86.79
2	Montreal	Quebec	82.93
3	Vancouver	British Columbia	82.79
4	Halifax	Nova Scotia	82.26
5	Victoria	British Columbia	80.70

Interestingly, just like in 2024, no city in Ontario made the list this year. Three of the winners are provincial capitals, showcasing their cultural and historic appeal.

1. Quebec City – A Slice of Europe in North America

For the 10th year in a row, Quebec City was crowned Canada’s best city by Travel + Leisure readers.

What makes it so special?

• Its French-inspired architecture and charming cobblestone streets
• The atmospheric Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec), a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• An incredible mix of food, art, and boutique shopping
• A romantic vibe that many say feels like “a slice of Paris”

Many travellers even recommend visiting Quebec City in winter, when snow transforms it into a fairytale destination.

2. Montreal – Europe Meets North America

Montreal is consistently ranked among the world’s top cities, and in 2025 it was even recognized as one of the top 10 global cities for international students.

Why travellers love it:

• European charm meets modern energy
• Amazing food culture, innovative restaurants, and buzzing cafés
• Events and festivals year-round, from jazz to art
• A vibrant, historic downtown

For culture lovers, Montreal balances the old-world atmosphere with a bold, creative edge.

3. Vancouver – Nature Meets Urban Luxury

Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, Vancouver is no stranger to Canada’s top city rankings.

Travellers highlighted its:

• Breathtaking scenery and nearby hiking trails
• Global reputation for top-notch restaurants
• Outdoor activities year-round, from skiing to cycling

It’s often dubbed one of the most livable cities in the world, making it a must-visit for those who want both city life and natural beauty.

4. Halifax – Canada’s Rising Coastal Gem

Described by one respondent as “the up-and-coming city in Canada,” Halifax is quickly gaining global recognition.

Here’s what makes Halifax special:

• A charming waterfront and harbour that draws visitors
• Close access to forests, coastline, and outdoor adventures
• Rapidly growing culture and food scene

Halifax offers an authentic East Coast Canadian experience, blending history with modern vibrancy.

5. Victoria – British Elegance on the Pacific Coast

Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, rounds out the top five.

Travellers love it for its:

• Stately British architecture and green, walkable spaces
• Relaxed, welcoming vibe compared to bigger cities
• Famous Butchart Gardens, a spectacular floral attraction just outside the city

For those seeking a calmer yet lively coastal escape, Victoria is an ideal destination.

How Travel + Leisure Chose These Cities

The World’s Best Awards survey asked readers to rate Canadian cities on six categories:

• Sights & landmarks
• Culture
• Food
• Friendliness
• Shopping
• Value for money

Scores reflect the average of reader responses across these categories, making this list a true reflection of how travellers themselves experience Canada.

Do You Need a Visa to Visit Canada?

Before packing your bags, make sure you’re clear about Canada’s entry requirements:

• Visitor Visa (TRV): Required for most foreign nationals unless visa-exempt. Apply early, as processing times vary.
• Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): Required for citizens of visa-exempt countries when arriving by air. Not needed if travelling by land or sea.
• Visa & eTA-exempt: US citizens, Green Card holders, and some exceptions (like French nationals from Saint Pierre and Miquelon flying directly to Canada) do not require either.

Final Thoughts

From the charming streets of Quebec City to the Pacific beauty of Victoria, Canada offers a wide variety of experiences for every type of traveller.

The best cities to visit in Canada in 2025, as voted by real travellers, highlight the country’s blend of culture, history, food, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a European-style getaway without crossing the Atlantic or breathtaking coastal adventures, Canada has it all.

👉 Pro tip: Plan ahead for visas or eTAs to make sure your Canadian adventure is stress-free.