Plan
your trip with this complete Canada travel guide, featuring essential
information, visa details, local tips, and the best times to visit.
Discover everything you need to explore Canada confidently and make
the most of your journey.
Country: Canada
Continent / Region: North America
Capital City: Ottawa
Government Type: Federal Parliamentary Democracy & Constitutional Monarchy
Population: Approx. 40 million
Official Language(s): English, French
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: ~75%
Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Time Zone (GMT): Ranges from GMT-3.5 to GMT-8 (multiple time zones)
Driving Side: Right
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type A/B – 120V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers require a plug adapter
Emergency Numbers: 911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 7–9 hours (direct to Toronto/Vancouver)
Best Time/Months to Travel: May–September (warm weather), December–February (winter sports)
Main International Airports:
- Visa Requirements: Varies by nationality
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) required
- Visa Duration / Cost: Up to 6 months; CAD $7
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines; no additional requirements
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Canada):
Average Daily Costs: £80 / £150 / £300+
Tipping Culture: 15–20% at restaurants; $1–$2 for small services
Public Transport Options: Buses, metros (Toronto/Vancouver/Montreal), trains, ferries
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: CAD $3–$4 (city transit)
Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G/5G; Rogers, Bell, Telus
Main Climate Type: Varies from temperate to subarctic
Average Temperature: Winter −5°C to −30°C; Summer 18–30°C
Major Cities: Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Calgary, Ottawa, Edmonton
Natural Attractions: Niagara Falls, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Rocky Mountains, Northern Lights
Popular Destinations: Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Banff, Whistler, Quebec City, Ottawa
Main Religions: Christianity, with growing multicultural diversity
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Poutine, maple syrup products, Nanaimo bars, fresh seafood, bannock, regional craft beers
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: CN Tower, Parliament Hill, Capilano Suspension Bridge, Old Quebec, Lake Louise
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Common Scams: Rare; occasional online or ticket scams in major cities
Health Risks: Extreme cold in winter; wildlife encounters in rural areas
Recommended Clinics: International clinics in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal
Insurance Recommendation: Comprehensive travel insurance advised
Internet Speed: Excellent 4G/5G in cities; slower in remote regions
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Niagara Falls, Banff & Lake Louise, CN Tower, Whistler, Old Quebec, Vancouver Stanley Park, Jasper National Park
Unique Experiences: Northern Lights trips, polar bear tours (Churchill), Indigenous cultural experiences, dog sledding, whale watching
Hidden Gems: Prince Edward Island, Haida Gwaii, Waterton Lakes, Fundy National Park, Tofino surf town
Popular Areas to Stay: Downtown Toronto, Vancouver Waterfront, Montreal Old Town, Banff Townsite, Quebec City Historic District
Average Hotel Prices: £70 / £150 / £300+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Toronto Entertainment District, Montreal Crescent Street, Vancouver Gastown
Local Drinks: Canadian whisky, craft beer, ice wine
Entertainment: Live music, sports events, bars, comedy clubs, winter festivals
Car Rental: Widely available; essential for national parks
Domestic Flights: Frequent across vast distances
Trains: VIA Rail (scenic routes), limited in some regions
Taxi / Rideshare Costs: CAD $3–$4 start fare; Uber available in major cities
Best Markets: Granville Island (Vancouver), St. Lawrence Market (Toronto), ByWard Market (Ottawa)
Popular Souvenirs: Maple syrup, Indigenous art, smoked salmon, local crafts, winter clothing
Local SIM Card Providers: Rogers, Bell, Telus
Typical Business Hours: 9 a.m.–9 p.m. (Mon–Sat)
Tap Water Safety: Safe throughout the country
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Canada has more lakes than the rest of the world’s lakes combined.