Canada’s top solo travel destinations

According to Kayak & OpenTable and other travel experts, Vancouver, Montreal, and Toronto are among the best cities for solo travel. If you’re a newcomer looking to explore, here’s a guide to these standout cities, each with its unique charm.

Vancouver – Urban sophistication meets natural beauty 🌿🏙️
🥈2nd place

Highlights:
☑️ Stanley Park – Cycle through the 400-hectare park with bike paths, viewpoints, and the Vancouver Aquarium
☑️ Grouse Mountain – Hike for breathtaking city and mountain views
☑️ Granville Island – Enjoy solo-friendly cafes and vibrant shops

Montreal – Rich in history and vibrant festival scene 🏛️🎉
🥉 3rd Place

Highlights:
☑️ Old Montreal – Wander historic streets with a self-guided tour
☑️ Mount Royal – Hike for panoramic city views and lush green space
☑️ Notre-Dame Basilica – Marvel at Gothic-Revival architecture in a culturally rich city

Toronto – Diverse food and lively nightlife 🌆🍽️
🏅 7th Place

Highlights:
☑️ CN Tower – Enjoy stunning views from one of North America’s tallest structures
☑️ Royal Ontario Museum – Explore world-class exhibits on art, culture, and history
☑️ Hop-on-Hop-off Bus – Conveniently visit Toronto’s top attractions

Toronto’s Treasures Used Book Sale at Beeton Hall, Toronto Reference Library, offers thousands of books with prices starting at $1. Supports library programs. September 19 – September 21

Near Vancouver: Agassiz Fall Fair and Corn Festival celebrates its 120th year with the 76th corn festival as part of the “Year of the Garden.” Enjoy activities hosted by the Agassiz Agricultural and Horticultural Association. About a 1.5-hour drive. September 13 – September 14

Ottawa’s Proulx Farm Halloween Playground features a transformed farm with ghostly gatherings and a country setting. Tickets available online and in person. September 15 – October 27

Winnipeg’s Boonstra Cornmaze features a 10-acre corn maze, petting zoo, hayrides, and more. Enjoy various attractions and activities. September 7 – September 8

Calgary’s Chinatown Lantern Festival features stunning light and lantern displays with local vendors and food trucks. Enjoy a vibrant evening at this one-day event. September 13, 2024

Edmonton’s Filipino Fiesta 2024 at Borden Park celebrates Philippine culture with entertainment, arts, crafts, and food. Enjoy a weekend of vibrant performances, street games, and traditional treats. Free admission. September 14 – September 15

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As travel writer and digital creator Katherine Palumbo says, there’s nothing like fall in Ontario! For those new to the area or looking to explore, Katherine has compiled her top cozy fall stays to help you find the perfect weekend getaway.

• Type: Vacation Home Rental 🏡🌲

• Location: Huntsville

• Details: Enjoy a serene escape in beautiful Muskoka.

• Link: WolegiB Muskoka

• Type: Glamping Eco-Retreat ⛺🌿

• Location: Near Orillia

• Details: A family-owned retreat since 1967, offering eco-friendly glamping experiences.

• Link: Glen Oro Farm

• Type: Vacation Home Rental 🏡🌲

• Location: Huntsville

• Details: A cozy one-bedroom retreat perfect for a peaceful getaway.

• Link: Aux Box Muskoka

4️⃣ Deer Lake Wilderness Retreat

• Type: Glamping and Hospitality Service 🏕️🌲

• Location: Almaguin Highlands, 3 hours north of Toronto

• Details: A tranquil spot for relaxation and reflection in a beautiful natural setting.

• Link: Deer Lake Wilderness Retreat

According to MTLBlog, Emily in Paris stars Samuel Arnold (Julien) and Bruno Gouery (Luc) were recently spotted in Montreal, giving fans a fun Québécois twist on the show. Here’s what they did:

• Explored iconic Montreal landmarks 🏙️
• Tried poutine at La Banquise 🍟 — Arnold’s reaction to squeaky cheese was priceless!
• Joined the city’s Great Bagel Debate, choosing Saint-Viateur over Fairmount and even learning to make bagels themselves 🏆

For newcomers, this highlights Montreal’s unique food culture and shows how much there is to discover!