Canada is one of the most remarkable places in the world to experience as a traveler.
If you’re from somewhere outside Canada, you’ve got a wide selection of increasingly delightful surprises on the way. Bustling cosmopolitan cities that rub shoulders with unspoiled natural beauty, grand hotels ready to welcome you with crisp sheets and stunning views, and Michelin-starred (or on the way there) cuisine experiences and luxury shopping on par with any destination in the world.
If you’re a local on a mission to see the more opulent side of your home country, you’re about to find out that there’s a whole other side to Canada. Sure, a Tim Hortons coffee and pastry are good, but have you ever treated yourself to Oliver Bernardos’ Mille-feuille at L’Abbattoir? Staying in a big city bed and breakfast for an evening is a treat, but have you ever experienced the true five-star luxury of a suite overlooking the city?
Luxury travel in Canada’s most glamorous towns is something special indeed. Though it may not currently be a country renowned specifically for luxury travel, that is changing rapidly, and here is why.
Canada’s Best Cities for Luxury Travel
While many people come to Canada for luxury wildlife experiences and a chance to connect with the country’s superbly safeguarded areas of natural beauty, vast numbers of luxury tourists pour into its cities looking for a taste of the high life.
Here are Canada’s best cities to plan a luxury getaway to:
Vancouver, BC
Visitors to Vancouver have access to an incredible cultural scene that spans the entire city. Indigenous culture appreciation, events, galleries, and museums abound, as do opportunities to enjoy them from a VIP box or on a special, private tour.
Vancouver’s port is an excellent place to set off from if you’re aiming to see Canada’s coastline and marine life, and Vancouver International Airport is the perfect place to board a charter plane for your next great Canadian adventure. The film industry thrives in Vancouver, so there’s always an exciting gala to attend. The culinary scene in the city is vibrant and offers every kind of Canadian (and international) dish you could ever wish to try. There’s history here, too, particularly in Gastown. What a playground for visitors looking for high-end experiences!
Toronto, ON
Toronto is renowned for its remarkable diversity, which is particularly attractive to international visitors seeking to learn as much as possible about Canada and its people. The arts scene in the city is top-tier, meaning that music and theater are always viable options for an evening out on the town in your best dress or suit. As one of the country’s major financial hubs, Toronto knows how to look after visitors who expect the best of the best and is used to catering to HNW luxury travelers. Sports fans enjoy visiting Toronto thanks to the incredible collision of major sports teams that call the city home (the Maple Leafs, Raptors, and Blue Jays), and the local stadiums certainly know how to provide a luxury experience.
Montreal, QC
Montreal is considered to be the Canadian city with the most refined, European-like charm. French Canadian culture takes center stage here, bringing to the fore every taste, every note, and every refined aspect of its character. This culture is present not only in cultural events and the incredible cuisine available throughout the city, but also in its stunning architecture (the Gothic Revival style, in particular, is well represented in Notre-Dame Basilica), the impressive lineup of festivals (jazz is particularly beloved in Montreal), and the vibrant arts scene. Luxury visitors to Montreal should allocate as much time as possible to enjoy all that this dynamic city has to offer fully.
Calgary, AB
Calgary has something that no other Canadian city, no matter how opulent or glamorous, can claim to have, and that is the Calgary Stampede. This enormous and enormously popular rodeo event and festival draws tourists here from all over the world to enjoy this unique experience. Those wishing to take day trips or even leave the city to explore the majestic Rocky Mountains will find it a quick and easy trip from Calgary. Eco-conscious luxury travelers will be impressed by the city’s commitment to preserving its green spaces and its remarkable cleanliness.
Quebec City, QC
Quebec City, though last on our list, is by no means least. Architecture buffs will appreciate the city for one of its central claims to fame: Quebec City is the only walled city north of Mexico, and the “Old Quebec” part of this magical city is preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so private tours and experiences abound. There are many other architectural and historical sights of interest, such as Château Frontenac, to explore and appreciate. French Canadian culture is robust and well-preserved in Quebec City. If that wasn’t immediately clear when you arrive, it will be as soon as you sit down to eat, because the French food in the city is some of the best in all of Canada.
Captivating Canada
Every luxury experience you’ve ever imagined having is waiting for you in Canada. Dining on fine, fresh, seasonal cuisine, exploring cobbled streets, marveling at incredible artwork—it’s all there! All you have to do is choose to enjoy it.
