From cobblestone streets and magical castles to elegant cities and breathtaking nature, it’s easy to see why Eastern Canada is a hot spot these days. Whether you’re looking for the big city thrills of Toronto and Ottawa, the European-style charm of Montreal and Quebec City, or the scenic Maritime provinces’ (with the freshest seafood!)—you’ll find a variety of unforgettable experiences. Even better, there are many great deals right now on day trips and multiday adventures. Here’s a quick guide to the amazing places you’ll enjoy in Eastern Canada.

TORONTO

Located on the shore of Lake Ontario, this is the largest and most populous city in Canada. Multicultural and diverse, Toronto prides itself on its unique neighborhoods—from the bohemian Kensington Market, to the affluent, high-fashion area of Yorkville to the fun Toronto Entertainment District. Enjoy a hop-on, hop-off tour to see the sights at your own pace. Climb the CN Tower, the tallest free-standing structure in the Western Hemisphere, for unforgettable views of the city and Lake Ontario. Thrillseekers will love the EdgeWalk, a platform that allows you to hang over the city from a secure harness.

Toronto is also a great launching point for many Canadian adventures. Take a day trip to nearby Bruce Peninsula and discover sandy beaches, clear-blue waters, scenic coves and wooded trails. Or, kick off a variety of multiday tours that travel to Niagara Falls, Montreal, Quebec City, 1000 islands, Nova Scotia and more!

NIAGARA FALLS

Did you know there are actually two waterfalls that comprise Niagara Falls? Both the American Falls and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls are spectacular sights not to be missed. Luckily, there are many amazing ways to see this natural wonder: Take a boat cruise up to Horseshoe Falls and feel the spray of water on your skin. Ride a helicopter to see the full majesty of Niagara Falls from above. Enjoy lunch from a scenic restaurant overlooking the falls. Or, simply experience Niagara Falls standing at one of the many observation points. (You will get a bit wet but it will be worth it!)

THOUSAND ISLANDS

Located on the border of New York and Ontario, the Thousand Islands region spans 50-miles along the St. Lawrence River. Once a fashionable getaway for the 19th-century elite, this breathtaking destination features more than 1,800 small islands. With its sparkling lakes, windswept pines, scenic waterfalls, granite cliffs and Victorian mansions, it’s little wonder this destination is popular with nature lovers these days. One of the best ways to experience its beauty is on a boat tour. Enjoy a five-hour cruise that includes a stop at Boldt Castle, a grandiose structure built at the turn of the century by George C. Boldt, the millionaire proprietor of the Waldorf Astoria hotel. Or, savor a four-course dinner on a sunset cruise in a glass-top boat that includes dancing and live entertainment.

OTTAWA

As the capital of Canada, Ottawa is home to the country’s federal government and many national museums. Located en route to Montreal from Toronto, it’s also a great place to stop on a multiday tour. Head to Parliament Hill and stroll the grounds of the beautiful Gothic-revival Parliament building. Nearby, visit the National Gallery of Canada, an art museum with a comprehensive collection of Canadian works; the Royal Canadian Mint (Pro tip: be sure to book your tour here early); and the Canadian Museum of History, which features an impressive exhibit on totem poles. Next, explore the scenic Rideau Canal, a historic 19th-century waterway that connects the area’s rivers and lakes. For delicious fare, wander through ByWard Market for maple-infused products, Canadian cheese and a variety of topnotch eateries.

MONTREAL

Montreal is Canada’s second largest city and the second-largest French-speaking city in the world. Perhaps best known for its many cultural festivals and poutine (that’s french fries drowning in gravy and cheese curds!), the city also offers plenty of European charm. Take a walking tour in Old Montreal and see colorful cobblestone streets, historical houses and elegant churches. Next, head to Mont-Royal park, the highest point in the city, to enjoy a sculpture garden, Beaver Lake and the hidden gem Saint Joseph’s Oratory. Visit the Montreal Botanical Garden to see stunning displays featuring over 20,000 flora and fauna. Nearby, explore the newly-renovated Biodome where you can encounter the natural worlds of the Americas, passing through five different ecosystems (reopening summer 2019).

There’s plenty to see just outside Montreal, too. Take a day trip to the Laurentian Mountains and discover breathtaking nature and charming villages. Enjoy a cruise on Lac des Sable, the most picturesque lake in the Laurentians. Ride a scenic gondola to the top of Mont-Tremblant and enjoy a leisurely afternoon spent dining and shopping.

QUEBEC CITY

Strolling through Quebec City’s old town is like traveling back in time to the 17th century. An UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only walled city north of Mexico, Old Quebec features historic buildings, beautiful churches, cobblestone streets and iconic landmarks, including the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac (one of the most photographed hotels in the world!). Be sure to go inside the beautiful Notre-Dame de Québec Basilica and stroll the Citadel, the largest British-built fortress in North America. You’ll also find plenty of dining and shopping along the charming rue Saint-Jean and rue Saint-Louis. Just outside of Old Quebec, enjoy an amazing view of the city from the Observatoire de la Capitale located at the very top of the Marie-Guyart Building. On the outskirts of Quebec City, within just a 15 minute drive,  you’ll find the stunning Montmorency Falls. At 272 feet (83 meters), they are even taller than Niagara Falls. Enjoy a scenic cable car ride to the top for beautiful views and a fun suspension bridge.

HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA

Traveling farther north along the coast, you’ll find Halifax, a charming destination that comes alive in the summer months. Stroll along the waterfront and enjoy pubs and delicious eateries featuring fresh catches of the day. (Seafood lovers should try a two-hour dinner cruise on the Harbour Queen.) Truly a city by the sea, Halifax’s other top attractions include whale watching, and the Maritime Museum, featuring artifacts from the Titanic. Don’t miss the Halifax Public Gardens, a Victorian era oasis bursting with beautiful flora that is open even during the cold winter months. No visit to Halifax would be complete without a trip to Peggy’s Cove, a small coastal village featuring beautiful scenery and an iconic lighthouse.

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

A popular destination for many multiday tours throughout Canada, you can also find coastal tours that travel here from Boston. Known for being the idyllic backdrop of the novel Anne of Green Gables, Prince Edward Island offers picturesque farms, rugged coastlines, golden beaches and freshly-caught lobsters. (On the way here, you’ll see the world’s biggest lobster statue commemorating its status as a top destination for shellfish.) Be sure to visit attractions such as Britain’s Woodleigh Replicas & Gardens and the Anne of Green Gables House. Finally, make a stop at Cavendish Beach to enjoy sand dunes, sea cliffs, wetlands and forests.

ST. JOHN’S, NEWFOUNDLAND

The oldest and most easterly city in North America, St. John’s sits on a beautiful blue harbor off of the Atlantic Ocean. Famous for its hilly terrain and rows of brightly-painted houses, this capital of Newfoundland and Labrador receives comparisons to San Francisco (although smaller). Head to the top of Signal Hill where you’ll discover scenic hiking trails and amazing views of the city. It’s also home to Cabot Tower, a monument built in 1898 to commemorate the 400th anniversary of John Cabot’s discovery of Newfoundland. (Fun fact: It’s also the location where the first transatlantic wireless communication was received in 1901). Outside of the city lies a wealth of natural attractions including Gros Morne National Park, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy multiday adventures through the province’s awe-inspiring beauty and historic viking trails. 

For more ideas and travel tips for Canada, visit Tours4fun.com.