2 Weeks in Canada: 4 itineraries

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Canada is a Northern American country that has ten provinces and three territories which extend from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean and northward to the Arctic Ocean.

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It shares a southern and western border with the United States. It also shares maritime borders with Greenland, Saint Pierre and Miquelon.

Canada’s natural beauty, including secluded forests, glaciers, and mountains, is almost unparalleled. However, Canada isn’t only famous for its great outdoors. It also has clean, safe and multicultural cosmopolitan cities.

Since Canada this country has so much to offer, you have to stay for at least 2 weeks in Canada for you to make the most out of your vacation.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING CANADA

3 images - lake louise with red boats, poutine, polar bear, and vancouver skyline - 2 weeks in Canada itinerary

Before we jump right into the itinerary, you need to know these things first. The Canada travel tips below will help you plan and write an itinerary and ensure you will encounter as little hassle as possible.

When is the best time to go to Canada

The summer season is from June to September, which is also the peak season, while the rainy season is from March to June.

In contrast, winter is from late November until early March, when you can enjoy winter activities such as skiing and exploring the Arctic.

It’s very cold in Canada in winter, so unless you’re planning to do winter activities here during this time, you should really avoid visiting between November and February.

Are 2 weeks enough for Canada

14 days in Canada is definitely not enough if you want to see everything. This is a massive country with so much to offer. But it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t plan a trip to Canada.

You can explore a small part of this trip and see if you like it. If so, then you have more reason to come back in the future

Besides, Canada is so different in each season. So, visiting during summer doesn’t translate enough to what Canada is like in winter. If you plan well, you can see 2-3 major cities in Canada in under 2 weeks.

Getting around

The modes of transportation in Canada include planes, trains, buses, ferries, cars, subways, light rail trains, trams, taxis and cycling.

Taking the bus is the most common form of transportation here as it is also the cheapest. If you travel long distances, you might have to ride a plane instead, and in some areas, you can take a long-distance train.

Renting a car and driving on your own, combined with taking domestic flights, are an ideal way to get around Canada. If you plan to do so, ensure you align your car rental dates properly to avoid being short in time or paying too many extra days.

Language and currency

More than 200 languages are spoken in Canada, but most of them are unofficial. They have two official languages, which are French and English.

Their currency is called the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards are more commonly used in Canada than in other countries, particularly for transactions above $15.

However, it still would be best if you bring cash with you because there are still establishments that don’t accept cards as payment methods. You should be able to find ATMs in all major cities and big tourist spots.

Packing tips

Packing for Canada can be tricky, especially if you plan to do different adventures or if you come during winter.

First, you should know how expensive it is to buy winter clothes there, but instead of packing the jackets in your luggage, simply wear them and remove them once you are on the plane.

We have a packing list for 2-week trips, which comes with a printable checklist for free. But we also have a winter packing list if that’s the season you’re going.

If you plan to visit national parks and do lots of hiking, it’s essential to bring and pack your best hiking boots or shoes. It’s not advisable to buy those in Canada because you need to break into them and ensure your feet mould on the shoes to avoid blisters and injuries.

Visa

Unfortunately, Canada can be a challenging country to visit. This is because the government has a strict visa policy in place.

Travellers with passports from North America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Brazil, Chile, and some parts of the Caribbean and the Gulf countries can enjoy visa-free access to Canada for up to 6 months.

Other visitors must apply for a visa in advance. On the other hand, if you have a valid US tourist visa or a Green Card holder (USA), you are eligible to apply for an eTA (only arriving by air), applicable for specific nationalities.

Visitors who qualify for visa exemption are required to apply for an eTA before boarding their flight to Canada (except for USA passport holders).

Average cost for 2 weeks in Canada

Canada is an expensive place to spend a holiday in. The average cost of travel for 14 days in Canada is about $1,300 per person.

If you don’t mind staying in hostels, you can do with $900, and for those who want luxury, it’s best to plan a $3,500 budget.

These costs exclude flights to and from Canada. Depending on the places you want to see, you might also have to rent a car which can be pricier than taking public transportation.

Other travel tips

I use these travel websites for planning and booking any of my trips. Many of these offer 24-hour cancellation, which gives me flexibility and lessens the chance of money loss, which is great, especially if your travel plans are not final. You can book hotels, flights, tours, and buses, and also look for affordable travel insurance.

PINNED MAP OF TOP THINGS TO SEE IN CANADA

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS IN CANADA ITINERARY

These two weeks in Canada itineraries are created for various types of travellers. For those who want a jam-packed itinerary, history buffs, wish to experience adrenaline-filled activities or just want a slow-paced vacation, whatever itinerary you prefer, we’ve got you covered.

Please take note that you do not need to follow these travel itineraries 100%, and you may modify them however you like. You could also mix and match the places and the activities. These are just suggestions to provide you with some ideas.

Itinerary #1: (Ontario & Quebec) Toronto, Niagara Falls, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Prince Edward Island

This first itinerary option for your 14 days in Canada is ideal for people who love to learn about the culture and observe city architecture and those who are fond of attending various events.

Simply put, this is perfect for those who prefer a busy itinerary but non-adrenaline-filled activities. It’s a jam-packed plan with cities far from one another. So, you will have to take domestic flights to get from one city to another.

Don’t be disheartened if you’re an adrenaline junkie because we added locations that would also suit your preference. The great thing about these locations is that they’re near each other so you wouldn’t spend much time travelling from one place to another.

Toronto and Niagara Falls for 3 days

Toronto is famous for its food, sports, open spaces and various events, including festivals, concerts and sports events. This place is also perfect for people who love road trips, as you can find wineries, cottages, waterfalls and other quaint sites within a couple of hour’s drive.

I am sure that only a few people haven’t heard about Niagara Falls. This waterfall comprises not only one but three waterfalls; Bridal Veil Falls, American Falls and Horseshoe Falls.

Aside from the glorious feeling you get upon seeing it up close, they also have a waterfall light show, and you could do many activities with your family and friends. This is the perfect starting point for travel for adventurous people, as a couple of hiking trails are nearby.

If you’re renting a car to explore Toronto and Niagra Falls, you can pick up your car rental at the airport or downtown Toronto.

TIP: You can save money by getting a train pass to/from Pearson Airpot in advance

Ottawa for 3 days

You are now entering the French-speaking region of Canada. While French is the main language here, road signs, restaurant menus, and many other things are in English. You also shouldn’t have a problem communicating with locals in English.

Ottawa is famous for having the largest skating rink worldwide, spanning 7.8 km. You could also have a picnic at the park and watch contemporary music and plays.

For those who are fond of anything spooky, you could take the haunted walk of Ottawa, a guided walking tour that lasts for 90 minutes.

To reach Ottawa, if you’re coming from Toronto, you could fly, ride the bus, drive or board the train. The most recommended option would be to fly as it is the fastest, about 2 hours.

Driving takes 4 hours while the cheapest option would be to ride the bus, which is about a 5-hour journey.

Montreal for 3 days

Montreal is a fascinating cosmopolitan city filled with fantastic architecture, trendy bars, great eats, and local culture.

This place is ideal for those who prefer slow travel as the attractions are near one another, so there’s no need to rush. They have parks, old public markets, and museums.

The most recommended mode of transportation from Ottawa to Montreal is by boarding the train, which lasts for almost 2 hours. The cheapest option is by bus, and the alternative options are by flying and driving.

2 images - Montreal at sunset and vancouver aerial view - 2 weeks in Canada itinerary

Quebec City for 2 days

2 weeks in Canada is not complete without visiting the famous city of Quebec. It is worth visiting as it is UNESCO World Heritage Certified, is the cradle of French America and is the only fortified city on the continent north of Mexico.

It is also very close to nature, including glacial valleys, rolling rivers and lakes that are accessible in all seasons.

If you’re travelling from Montreal to Quebec, the most recommended option is to either take the bus or the train. The bus takes 3 hours. The alternative options are boarding the train for 3 hours or driving for 2.5 hours.

Prince Edward for 2 days

Prince Edward Island is the smallest province in Canada. It is a must-visit, offering a unique fusion of French, Scottish, Irish and English traditions.

This place is perfect for people who love to learn about East Canadavarious cultures. There are also tons of activities that you could do here, including biking and fishing.

There are several ways to get to Prince Edward if you’re coming from Quebec, including flying, which is the most recommended option.

Riding the bus is the cheapest option, but you most likely have to change buses. Driving takes 9 hours, while the flight is about 4-6 hours, depending on the connection.

Itinerary #2: (BC & Alberta) Vancouver, Banff/Lake Louise/Jasper National Park, Canadian Rockies

This second itinerary is ideal for those who prefer nature-tripping and for those who love outdoor activities. Vancouver is well-known for its ancient forests, seawalls, and ecologically-minded locals.

They also offer many activities such as hiking, swimming and surfing, while Banff National Park is home to diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, cougars, bald eagles, and more.

What’s great is that Banff National Park is close to the Canadian Rockies, another world-famous tourist destination.

Since this itinerary only includes two provinces and the locations are near one another, you can definitely do a road trip with good planning. You can also sneak in a domestic flight if needed.

Vancouver for 5 days

Vancouver has almost everything tourists and locals could want, such as rainforests, sparkling oceans, majestic mountains, and beautiful foliage. They offer a variety of land and water sports.

One of the resorts here with excellent accommodations is the Harrison Hot Springs Resort. They have a golf package, eco-tours, watersports and shoreline tours. You could also dine at the lakeside and enjoy a nice meal with incredible scenery here.

Vancouver is the perfect starting point of travel for adventure seekers as it is only two hours away from a world-class ski resort and is surrounded by both waters and mountains, so you won’t run out of activities to do.

Banff National Park, Lake Louise, and Jasper National Park for 6 days 

Banff National Park is Canada’s first national park and is third in the world. It is well-known for its lakes, mountains and endless outdoor activities.

It is only a 40-minute drive to the spectacular Lake Louise, which also has abundant wildlife and sparkling glaciers, and where you could go boating, skiing, and hiking.

Jasper National Park is perfect for hikers as it has some of the best hiking routes in the country. It also has waterfalls and Spirit Island, a peninsula connected to the shore. Since these nature parks are close to each other, six days will be plenty of time.

2 images - jasper national park and prince edward island lighthouse - 2 weeks in canada itinerary

The Canadian Rockies for 2 days

The Canadian Rockies are most suitable for those who are fond of road trips as there are tons of scenic views to see here, such as snow-capped mountains, rushing rivers, deep forests and the like. There are also tons of wildlife here.

You can reach the Canadian Rockies from Jasper National Park through railway services. Travel time usually lasts for almost 3 hours.

Unfortunately, there are no roads for vehicles. You will have to leave your car in Jasper and travel back there on a train. You can then drive to the airport and drop off your rented vehicle.

Itinerary #3: East & West: Toronto, Niagra, Quebec, Vancouver, A National Park

For this third itinerary, we’re going to go from East to West so you can experience what each area offers.

This is ideal for people who love to share a bit of everything, from immersing themselves in various cultures, experiencing laid-back travelling, trying out adventurous land and water sports and attending festivals, this itinerary definitely has it all.

It even covers some of the top attractions in Canada, including Niagara Falls and a couple of the most sought-after national parks.

Toronto and Niagara Falls for 3 days

For this part, you will be using Toronto as a base and then make a full-day trip to Niagra Falls.

Did you know that Toronto has around 10 million trees? Yep, 18% of the city’s total area is devoted to parks. That’s why there are tons of treetop trekking spots here. But if you have limited time, you can check this list of things to do in Toronto.

North America’s only castle can also be found here, so for those who are fond of adventure and finding rare, authentic locations, Toronto is the perfect place to start your trip.

Aside from the sight, Niagara Falls is famous because of the numerous activities you can do here, including a boat ride, zip line, helicopter flight and whirlpool aero car ride, among others.

Quebec City for 4 days

Quebec is a French-speaking province, so if you want to immerse yourself in French but haven’t been to Paris yet. The current most photographed hotel can also be found here, and the dish poutine originated in this region.

Based on these facts, one can assume that this place is perfect for those who want to unwind and not have a tight-packed itinerary. However, Quebec City also caters to those who love festivals, as it facilitates the largest winter festival in the world.

You’ll also be able to visit Montreal, where you’ll see biodomes, museums, and shopping centres. It also celebrates 90 festivals annually, so there’s a high chance you’ll be able to go to one or a couple during your stay.

To reach Quebec City, if you’re coming from Toronto, you could fly, which is the most recommended option. The travel duration is more than 3 hours. The cheapest option is riding a bus; other alternatives include boarding the train or driving, which is about 8 hours long.

2 images - quebec city and the canadian rockies - 2 weeks in Canada itinerary

Vancouver for 3 days

Vancouver is also known as the “Hollywood of the North” as it comes second after Los Angeles in TV production and third in film production, so film enthusiasts might enjoy visiting this place.

You’ll also find Canada’s longest pool here and a park that’s 10% larger than Central Park in New York.

For those who are planning to visit Vancouver from Quebec City, you could fly, board the train, ride a bus, or drive. The flight takes about 5-8 hours, depending on the connection.

A National Park for 3 days

2 weeks in Canada must include visiting a national park, whether this is your first time or not. Canada has one of the best national parks in the world, so you will not run out of places to discover and do outdoor activities.

For the final leg in this itinerary, you could choose either one between the Canadian Rockies, Jasper, or Banff National Park. Jasper is larger than Banff National Park, is more remote and has a rustic feel to it.

Jasper is more suitable for people with a laid-back vibe and fewer crowds. At the same time, Banff National Park is more commercialised and has various high-end shops. The Canadian Rockies is a bit challenging to get to, but it definitely should be considered.

Itinerary #4: Winter Visit: Niagara Falls, Ottawa, Churchill, Jasper National Park & Banff National Park, Vancouver

Last but definitely not least is the winter itinerary. Wherein we compiled the places that look ethereal during the winter and some activities you could do.

This itinerary is perfect for everyone as we have alternative options for those who prefer sightseeing over doing some rigorous activities.

The peak season in Canada is during the summer. This means that if you visit in winter, many businesses related to tourism, such as hotels, tour companies, and airlines, often have a good deal during this season. Canada is an incredible and magical country to visit during winter.

Niagara Falls for 2 days

Winter is actually one of the best times to visit Niagara Falls. Those who can endure the cold will be rewarded with an unbelievable view because the sunlight’s rays reflect the iced sheets.

It’s also the time when you can see the falls completely frozen, and another bonus is the lesser crowd during this season.

They even have a museum that offers classes where you can make your own glass. There is an old fort, Niagara’s oldest property grounds and a marine land where you and your family or friends could get up close with various sea animals that thrive in such cold waters.

Ottawa for 2 days

Ottawa is a historical and cultural city filled with museums and government structures. You’ll learn how Canadian coins are made and see the oldest church in Ottawa, which was made in 1841 (Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica).

To get to Ottawa from Niagra Falls, you could either take an hour’s flight or drive yourself, which is about 5 hours. You can also take the bus or a train, the travel time is between 7-9 hours.

Churchill, Manitoba for 3 days

Churchill is located in the province of Manitoba, by Hudson Bay. It is the best place to see the wonders of the Arctic. You’ll experience the thrill of this region during your visit in winter.

For one, you’ll get to see a polar bear up close. You can also see Beluga whales in Hudson Bay. This can indeed be a once-in-a-lifetime experience you wouldn’t want to miss.

There are no roads that lead to Churchill. The only way to get there from Ottawa is by plane. However, there are minimal and rare flights, this is the part of your trip where you have to book the flight in advance to ensure you get a seat.

Don’t worry, there are only 900 people who live in Churchill, which means that everyone who is trying to take the flight is a visitor.

2 images - jasper national park and CN tower at night - 2 weeks in Canada itinerary

Jasper National Park, Lake Louise, and Banff National Park for 5 days

Aside from the beautiful hikes and waterfalls, there are also hot springs in Jasper National Park, where you can chill after a strenuous hike. The national train carrier also stops at Jasper, so you’ll get to enjoy the scenic views.

Lake Louise, on the other hand, is part of Bangg National Park. It has one of the most famous mountain vistas in the world, as mountains frame the lake. Another way to enjoy the rocky mountain views and spot wildlife from afar is if you ride their gondolas.

Banff also has other lakes, which is why it is a must-visit, along with the scenic driveway and the chance to walk on 10,000-year-old pieces of ice.

Getting to Jasper from Churchill can be very challenging. Take a flight to Edmonton, Calgary, or Vancouver. The first two would be the best choices.

From there, you could take a private transfer to Jasper or Banff or pick up a rental car from the airport. The drive time from either city to either national park is between 2-7 hours.

Vancouver for 2 days

One of the reasons why Vancouver is a must-visit is because of nature’s accessibility to the city. The mountains are just an hour’s drive away if you want an excellent adventure.

There are also different types of markets for those who are fond of eating and shopping or shopping while eating. They have street food markets, flea markets and farmer’s markets.

Going to Vancouver is the perfect place to end your trip. This city has many international flights that could take you home directly or with a connection.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN CANADA

Don’t forget to book your tours if you’re visiting during peak season. If you prefer to do a DIY, here’s a list of must-see and must-do for 2 weeks in Canada:

Toronto

Ottawa

Montreal

Quebec City

Prince Edward Island

Vancouver

Banff National Park

Jasper National Park

  • Maligne Canyon Hiking
  • Medicine Lake
  • Old Fort Point hiking
  • Lake Edith and lake Annette
  • Jasper Skytram 
  • Angel Glacier and Cavell Meadows
  • Pyramid Lake
  • Athabasca falls and glacier
  • Columbia Icefield Skywalk
  • Helicopter ride

The Canadian Rockies

  • Helmcken Falls
  • Mount Robson Provincial Park
  • Kootenay National Park
  • Yoho National Park
  • Glacier National Park of Canada

MUST-TRY CANADIAN DISHES, DRINKS, AND SNACKS

3 images - poutine, caesar cocktail, and tourtier - 2 weeks in Canada itinerary

Canada might not be famous for its cuisine, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try a dish or two during your visit.

ou should be able to find these snacks and food anywhere in Canada, from bars, restaurants, and even food stalls. Some drinks and cocktails are only available or originated in Canada.

  • Poutine – Fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy.
  • Butter Tarts – Sweet pastries filled with a butter, sugar, and egg mixture.
  • Nanaimo Bars – A no-bake dessert bar, named after the city of Nanaimo in British Columbia.
  • Tourtière – A traditional meat pie originating from Quebec.
  • Bannock – A type of flatbread, an Indigenous Canadian staple.
  • Peameal Bacon – Cornmeal-coated bacon, often served as a breakfast item.
  • Montreal-Style Bagels – Smaller and denser than New York bagels, often boiled in honey-sweetened water before baking.
  • Montreal-Style Smoked Meat – Cured and smoked beef brisket, typically served in a sandwich.
  • Caesar Salad – While not originally from Canada, the Canadian version of this salad often includes unique twists.
  • Ketchup Chips – Potato chips flavoured with ketchup, a popular Canadian snack.
  • Maple Syrup Pie – A sweet pie made with maple syrup, a nod to Canada’s maple syrup production.
  • BeaverTails – Fried dough pastries, stretched to resemble a beaver’s tail, and topped with various sweet toppings.
  • Saskatoon Berry Pie – A pie filled with Saskatoon berries, native to Canada, offering a unique taste.
  • Caesar Cocktail – A cocktail made with vodka, Clamato juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, garnished with a celery stalk and lime.
  • Ice Wine – A type of dessert wine produced from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine.
  • Craft Beer – With a booming craft beer scene, Canada offers a wide variety of local brews to explore.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Finish up your planning by arranging the hotels. This is actually what I often book first (last are the tours) to ensure I can get the the best accommodation at the best price.

Toronto

Ottawa

Niagra Falls

Vancouver

Quebec City

Banff National Park

Jasper National Park

Prince Edward Island

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS IN CANADA

There’s more to Canada than just glaciers and snow-capped mountains. Spending 2 weeks in Canada, you could see the Northern Lights, visit Canada’s largest city, get blown away by the world-famous Niagara Falls, stay in a traditional mountain lodge and do other adventurous things.

If you prefer a slow journey, there are also tons of laid-back cities that you could visit. You could check out various historical sites, become a wine connoisseur, or stay at a luxury or affordable resort. Whatever it is that tinkers your fancy, Canada has got you covered.

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Explore Canada affordably in 2 weeks! Discover Toronto's diverse culture, hike in the Canadian Rockies, marvel at Niagara Falls, and relax in Vancouver. Opt for budget accommodations like hostels or campsites. via @twoweektraveller

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