Planning a visit in Canada in 2025? Whether you’re applying for a Canada visitor visa or already have one in hand, you’re in for a memorable experience. Each year, Travel + Leisure, one of the world’s top travel publications releases its much-anticipated World’s Best Awards survey, showcasing the most loved cities around the globe. In 2025, they unveiled their list of the best cities in Canada, ranked by their readers based on sights, culture, food, friendliness, shopping, and overall value.
Top 5 Places to Visit in Canada
Let’s take a look at the top-rated cities in Canada that are perfect for visitors looking to explore the best the country has to offer.
1. Quebec City, Quebec
Reader Score: 86.79
At the top of the list, once again, is the enchanting Quebec City. This marks the 10th consecutive year it has taken the top spot among Canada’s favourite cities. What makes it so special? According to travellers, Quebec City feels like stepping into a European fairytale. From its cobblestone streets and French colonial architecture to its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town (Vieux-Québec), the city offers a romantic and historical atmosphere that’s hard to beat.
Many travellers even suggest it as an alternative to visiting Paris. And if you’re visit to canada, don’t miss the winter season here Quebec City turns into a magical wonderland with festive lights, snow-covered buildings, and charming Christmas markets.
2. Montreal, Quebec
Reader Score: 82.93
Montreal is a city that effortlessly blends old-world charm with modern energy. Known for its thriving music festivals, vibrant culinary scene, and historic downtown, Montreal has also been named one of the top ten global cities for international students in 2025.
For those visiting Canada with a visitor visa, Montreal is a cultural gem. Whether you’re exploring the cobbled streets of Old Montreal or enjoying poutine at a local eatery, the city offers something for every kind of traveller.
3. Vancouver, British Columbia
Reader Score: 82.79
Vancouver, located on Canada’s beautiful west coast, consistently ranks high for its livability and quality of life. It’s no surprise that it has once again secured a spot among the top cities to visit.
From scenic hiking trails and world-class restaurants to its stunning waterfront views, Vancouver is a must-visit city for those traveling on a Canada visitor visa. Nature lovers, in particular, will find this city to be a paradise.
4. Halifax, Nova Scotia
Reader Score: 82.26
Described by travellers as “the up-and-coming city in Canada,” Halifax is the capital of Nova Scotia and a delightful coastal destination.
Known for its fresh seafood, historic waterfront, and forested surroundings, Halifax is increasingly being noticed by international travellers. If you’re visiting Canada, Halifax offers a quieter yet richly cultural alternative to the bigger cities.
5. Victoria, British Columbia
Reader Score: 80.70
Rounding off the top five is Victoria, British Columbia’s capital. This charming city stands out for its British-style architecture, beautiful parks, and relaxed pace of life.
One of the most frequently recommended spots here is the stunning Butchart Gardens, located just outside the city. It’s an absolute must-see for anyone on a Canada visitor visa seeking tranquility and scenic beauty.
Method Behind the Rankings
Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards are based on six key criteria:
- Sights and landmarks
- Culture
- Food
- Friendliness
- Shopping
- Value
Each respondent rated their travel experience across these categories, and the final scores reflect the overall average. In 2025 alone, more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 travel experiences, including hotels, cities, and cruise lines. Interestingly, this year’s list of top cities in Canada features no entries from Ontario, continuing the trend from 2024.
Do You Need a Visitor Visa to Travel to Canada?
Before you start packing your bags to explore these incredible cities, make sure you understand Canada’s entry requirements.
Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)
Most foreign nationals need a Canada visitor visa to enter the country. This visa allows travellers to stay for up to six months. Processing times can vary, so it’s best to apply well in advance of your trip.
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
If you’re from a visa-exempt country, you may only need an eTA to fly to Canada. This is a simpler online process, but it only applies to air travel.
Visa and eTA Exemptions
U.S. citizens, U.S. green card holders, and certain French nationals (from Saint Pierre and Miquelon) are exempt from both a visa and eTA when traveling directly by air.
If you’re planning to visit Canada in 2025, these five cities are perfect examples of the country’s diversity, charm, and hospitality. Whether you’re after history, food, nature, or a mix of all three there’s something here for everyone. With your Canada visitor visa in hand, you’re all set to explore some of the most beautiful and traveller-approved cities the country has to offer.
