Hidden gems: Canada’s cities have so much to offer 

life • May 21, 2024

What’s one thing every international student should do while in Canada? Travel! When you’re looking for places to visit in Canada, our most famous cities probably come to mind. But don’t overlook the lesser known (but equally cool) Canadian destinations. Here’s the scoop.

Québec City, Québec

Québec City, the province’s capital, will magically transport you to Europe! Picture gorgeous architecture, historic cobblestone streets and old-world charm. There’s really no place like it in Canada. Be sure to stroll around Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also home to the iconic Le Château Frontenac hotel. And the local cafés and renowned restaurants are the perfect place to practice your French. Eat like a local and order crêpes or fondue!

Fredericton, New Brunswick 

This picturesque city is located along the beautiful Saint John (Wolastoq) River. It’s the capital of New Brunswick on Canada’s east coast. Explore Fredericton’s impressive 120 km trail network. It winds along the river and through the forest. You’ll also want to check out Harrison Garrison District, a historic part of the city rich with culture. Take a short drive up the Saint John River to see some BIG things. The world’s largest axe in Nackawic celebrates the province’s forestry heritage. In nearby Hartland, you’ll find the world’s longest covered bridge. Definitely worth the trip!

Kingston, Ontario

One of Canada’s oldest cities, Kingston lies along the beautiful St. Lawrence River, about halfway between Ottawa and Toronto. The city is easy to walk and explore. You’ll find Ontario’s oldest public market. At night, take a spooky haunted walk through city streets and hidden burial grounds. If you’re a history buff, be sure to tour the UNESCO World Heritage site of Fort Henry. Is true crime your thing? Go behind the walls of Canada’s most notorious maximum-security prison, the Kingston Penitentiary. The area is home to the world-famous 1000 Islands, so hop on a sightseeing cruise to soak up the beauty. Fun fact: there are actually 1,864 islands here along the Canada-U.S. border. How many will you see?

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Welcome to “Paris of the Prairies.” This nickname comes from the many scenic bridges that cross the South Saskatchewan River. You’ll find gorgeous parks and a strong cultural scene in this up-and-coming city. Boomtown at the Western Development Museum is a fun stop. It’s a re-creation of a typical Saskatchewan town in 1910, during the economic boom. And if you have a chance, check out the province’s hauntingly beautiful grain elevators. They’re a true testament to the area’s agricultural roots.

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Winnipeg is the capital of Manitoba and has the largest Indigenous population in Canada. There’s so much to do and see in this energetic city. Be sure to plan a visit to one of Winnipeg’s dozens of museums. And if you’re into art, check out Qaumajuq at the Winnipeg Art Gallery. It houses the world’s largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art. There are hundreds of colourful outdoor murals across the city, plus an incredible foodie scene with must-try Indigenous restaurants.

St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador

St. John’s is a small city with a BIG personality. It’s one of the oldest places in North America and the capital of Newfoundland and Labrador. This city has breathtaking coastal views, a great live music scene and a super friendly vibe. If you’re lucky enough to make friends with a local, you may get “screeched in.” It’s a fun, informal ceremony to welcome visitors. You’ll recite local sayings, take a shot of screech rum and kiss a cod fish. Yup, you heard us right.

We hope you love visiting these amazing Canadian cities as much as we do. Safe travels!

These Canadian cities are also home to world-class colleges and universities like:

There are great private career colleges in these cities too. Use our school search tool to look them up.