When deciding what to do in Montreal, visitors are truly spoiled for choice, but the annual Festival International de Jazz de Montreal is at the top of the list of must-do activities.

The festival was launched in 1980 to incredible acclaim and is now one of Quebec's most distinguished gatherings. Massive audiences enjoy the festive mood as hundreds of musicians, artists, and performers from the city and around the world arrive every year for two weeks of joyful entertainment.

Numerous venues, including clubs, town squares, and even the streets, are used across the city, and many of the concerts are free. The splendor of this event, which includes more than 3,000 well-known performers from more than 30 nations, will entice you. While dancing to the upbeat beat of this rowdy festival, you may take in breathtaking live outdoor performances and concerts.

It's an amazing experience to witness Montreal come alive during the Jazz Festival each year, so it's definitely worth planning your trip around it.

Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada

With tours lasting 15 to 30 minutes, it's the ideal experience for those with limited time who want to check off one of Canada's great attractions. On a clear day, you can see as far back as Toronto and as far south as the United States, but it's likely that you won't be able to take your eyes off the Niagara Falls mist as it swirls below.

There are only 25,000 polar bears left on the planet, with 15,000 found in Canada’s remote Arctic regions. Due to their declining population, viewing a polar bear in the wild frequently necessitates lengthy expedition cruises or erratic, pricey charter flights to remote regions of the world.

Onboard one of the renowned tundra vehicles, such as the elevated off-road trucks that drive tourists around the fringes of Churchill and the Hudson Bay, you can get up and personal with these gorgeous animals while keeping safely out of reach.

Churchill Wild offers one of the most exceptional wildlife and lodging experiences available worldwide with its three award-winning and National Geographic-recognized luxury ecolodges situated on the isolated shores of Hudson Bay.

Location: northern extremities of Manitoba, on the edge of the enormous Hudson Bay

In Canada's extreme north, there are accommodations and tours specifically designed to see the Northern Lights. The best spot to stay in Yukon to see the magnificent Aurora Borealis is at the Northern Lights Resort and Spa, which is just outside of Whitehorse. The lodge has heated log cabins as well as brand-new glass chalets, so you don't even have to leave the warmth of your bed to see the displays.

If traveling in the winter doesn't sound like your ideal holiday, it's not a problem because the Aurora may appear in Canada at any time of the year. Clear nights from the middle of August to the middle of April are when the Yukon's light show can be seen, however viewing is better outside of Whitehorse, the city's capital.

Not only will you be more likely to observe Lady Aurora in action, but you'll also get the unique opportunity to visit a location where very few people ever go.

The largest city in Canada offers a staggering variety of sights and entertainment options, but none can match the pure wonder that can be found just 120 kilometers to the south. The raging Niagara River and Niagara Falls cross the boundary between the United States and Canada and connect Lake Ontario and Lake Erie.

Before finally gushing 168,000 cubic meters per minute off the 50-meter-high cliffs of Niagara Falls, one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world, this turbulent river tumbles over a variety of rapids.

A trip to Niagara Falls is a must-do on any Canadian bucket list, and while simply standing on the boardwalks that wrap around the falls can be an exhilarating feeling, nothing compares to seeing the falls from the air.

With tours running for 15-30 minutes it’s the perfect experience for people who want to tick off one of the great things in Canada while being short on time. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see all the way back to Toronto and south into the United States, but chances are you won’t be able to take your eyes off the mist from Niagara Falls as it churns below.

Location: the southern end of Niagara Gorge, spanning the border between the province of Ontario in Canada

Since the beginning of the 20th century, when Revelstoke's first ski club was founded, the gorgeous town has been a Mecca for winter sports. Revelstoke is located midway between Vancouver and Calgary.

It's no surprise that Revelstoke, or "Revy" as it's known to locals, is now one of the top winter destinations in the world given its location at the confluence of the Monashee and Selkirk mountain ranges, which contributes to an abundance of snowfall in this winter wonderland. The local ski resort also boasts the highest vertical drop in North America.

While Revelstoke Mountain Resort is undoubtedly world-class, for a truly unrivaled experience you will need to book your adventure holiday to include a couple of days of heli-skiing to make the most of Canada’s most epic mountain terrain.

Besides being Canada’s heli capital, Revelstoke is also one of the coolest towns to visit on any trip to the Great White North.

Location: 641 kilometres (398 mi) east of Vancouver, and 415 kilometres (258 mi) west of Calgary, Alberta

Summers in Churchill, Manitoba offers arctic adventurers the spectacular experience of visiting the Beluga Whale. From June to September, approximately 3,000 of these uniquely white-colored whales visit the Churchill River basin, and approximately 60,000 come into the Hudson Bay area. If you are passionate about wildlife experiences then set aside a day or two to take part in one of the most unique Canadian activities – kayaking with beluga whales.

Living in the seas of Hudson Bay, Canada's mysterious white whales approach the shore to eat trout and char. Beluga whale migration passes through this area just off the city's coast. They surrounded kayaks, even banging hulls and nibbling at GoPros since they were so intrigued.

While you can view them breaching from land or on a zodiac trip, sea kayaking among them is the closest experience you can have—of course, under the supervision of your professional guide.

Ticket price: $130 per person

Most people visit Victoria, the British Columbian province's capital, for tourism and culture, but if you venture farther north into the island's rocky and lonely sections, you might have some spectacular and unexpected encounters. Nature lovers can camp in some breathtaking locations and stroll along some of the best trails on Vancouver Island. For those seeking more comfort, staying at one of the island's lodges or resorts is always an option.

One of the most breathtaking views on the island is the old-growth forests, which are home to huge trees that are some more than a thousand years old. Within a day's drive of Victoria are the ancient trees of Eden Grove, which are near Port Renfrew. If you're heading up the island, you can also visit Cathedral Grove, which is near Port Alberni, or you can go all the way to Tofino to see even bigger trees.

A magnificent scene of sandy coves and towering rocky cliffs open up as you get closer to Tofino on the untamed west coast. There are amazing hiking routes, some of the largest trees in Canada, countless beaches, top-notch surfing sites, camping areas, and places where you can simply unwind and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature close to this small but hugely popular off-the-beaten-path tourist town called Pacific Rim.

Location: southwestern mainland British Columbia

The world-famous Notre Dame Basilica Cathedral is one of the most spiritual places to visit in Canada. The first cathedral to be erected in North America was Notre Dame. The Cathedral, which has stood in the same spot since 1647, has seen various modifications, including being completely destroyed by fire and rebuilt. The Cathedral is located in Old Montreal and has been designated a World Heritage Site.

Spend enough time admiring this cathedral's Neoclassical architecture while you're there. You can also admire the beautiful artwork and minutely detailed interior of the Notre Dame Basilica Cathedral.

The church's main features are its neo-classical facade with its two asymmetrical towers, its stained glass windows, its three Casavant organs, as well as the chancel golden sculptures, including a splendid baldachin designed and built by François Baillairgé, a famous French Canadian painter, sculptor, and architect.

A place of prayer and celebration that welcomes both large and small groups, the Cathedral is also a place where concerts, recitals, and exhibitions are presented throughout the year. It houses the tomb of Saint François de Laval, a large reliquary of Canada’s Saints and Blessed, and is adorned by a Holy Door.

Location: 16 Rue De Buade, Québec, QC G1R 4A1, Canada
Price: Free
Timing: Monday to Friday - 8 AM to 4:30 PM, Saturday - 8 AM to 4 PM, Sunday - 12:30 PM to 4 PM

Visit the Butchart Gardens, a Canadian National Historic Site that was established back in 2004, if you want some quiet time away from the bustle and commotion of the frenetic metropolis. Themed gardens allow you to meander through them while taking in the gorgeous fountains and exotic vegetation.

The Japanese Garden, the Rose Garden, the Sunken Garden, the Mediterranean Garden, and the Italian Garden are just a few of the well-known gardens where you may take leisurely strolls and capture some fantastic pictures.

Although Butchart Gardens is open all year round, it is recommended that people attend in the summer months of July and August to really experience its splendor. Downloading their Map & Guide, which is available in 22 languages and provides a brief history as well as descriptions of the five gardens, is a good idea before going. Three eateries, a seed and gift shop, and a plant identification counter with knowledgeable staff members are all present. Dog leashes, umbrellas, strollers, and wheelchairs are all available for loan at the visitor center.

Location: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Price: $3.50 + tax for adults, $2.50 + tax for youth, $1 + tax for children

Timing: 9 AM to 4 PM

Drumheller, which is in the center of the Canadian Badlands, is referred to as the dinosaur capital of the world. A dinosaur skull was discovered in the late 1800s while mining for coal in the rolling coulees close to the Red Deer River.

Spend a good amount of time in this location admiring the 40-mounted dinosaur skeletons and the 130,000 fossils that have been conserved. You can see fossilized remains of Stegosaurus, Triceratops, Tyrannosaurus rex, and Albertosaurus. You may learn more about the 3.9 billion-year history of the earth at the Royal Tyrrell Museum.

Incredible displays of dinosaurs found nearby are impressively showcased in a world-class setting. As you wander through the 13 galleries, you'll be transported back 3.9 billion years to the time that dinosaurs roamed the world.

A visit here isn't all indoors. Be sure to take time to explore the interpretive hiking trails located on the museum property.

Location: 1500 N Dinosaur Trail, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0, Canada

Price: $19 for adults, $14 for senior citizens, $10 for children, and free for infants below 6 years

Timing: 9 AM to 9 PM

In Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, there are marshes, woodlands, and grasslands. The gently undulating hills, stunning lakes, and enormous variety of plant and animal life would appeal to any ardent nature lover. Historic Fort Walsh is located in Cypress, which is also home to zip lines and actual working ranches where visitors may go horseback riding.

Zip lining at Cypress Hills is among the most favored summertime activities in Canada. With the aid of a zip line, you will soar through Cypress Hills' dense pine plantations at a height of roughly 20 to 45 feet above sea level. This activity will be completely safe for you because your entire body will be tethered to the zip line, and you will also be provided with a climbing helmet.

Open spaces, expansive skies, and a wealth of (rare) animals are the norm here. Additionally, there is a general air of calmness. Take a long hike through the grasslands, hire a canoe, and explore one of the many lakes, or, if you happen to be here in the winter, don your skis and hit the slopes.

Location: 3 Pine Ave, Maple Creek, SK S0N 1N0, Canada

The busy Saint John City Market, which is regarded as the oldest farmer's market in the nation, is unquestionably one of the greatest things to do in Canada for people who love to shop.

Additionally, Saint John visits there for the freshest meats, the greatest fish and chips, locally created goods, and a superb cup of coffee. The market, which was named Canada's 2013 Great Public Space, is the lifeblood of this ancient city. This market offers a wide variety of locally created goods, including coffee, fresh fish, blueberries, baked goods, maple syrup, fruits, wine, and cheese.

Here, you'll find everything from homemade doughnuts to fresh seafood to authentic Korean cuisine, not to mention locally made arts and crafts. Past visitors raved about the market's high-quality ingredients and keepsakes, citing the latter as excellent options for souvenirs. However, a few were disappointed with the market's small size.

Location: 47 Charlotte St, Saint John, NB E2L 2H8, Canada

Timing: 7.30 AM to 6 PM, Closed on Sunday

Without honoring and respecting the First Nations Aboriginal people who have lived in this country for thousands of years, no list of the finest things to do in Canada would be complete. Haida Gwaii, the magnificent archipelago located off the northwest coast of British Columbia, is one of the greatest sites to learn about these unique Indigenous people. As fishermen and traders, the Haida people have long coexisted peacefully on the islands, and they continue to be the original caretakers of this stunning and historic territory.

While there is no shortage of natural wonders to keep visitors busy here, from secluded beaches to old-growth forests, it’s diving into the First Nations culture that will leave the most lasting impression on travelers.

Haida Gwaii is speckled with totem poles, hand-carved by the Haida people to represent their family ancestry, and you can even visit a number of galleries to see new ones being made in person.

Location: British Columbia, Canada

The EdgeWalk of the magnificent CN Tower, which is regarded as the highest circular hands-free walkway in the world, is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Canada. You will undoubtedly experience an unimaginable rush of excitement when walking on a 1.5 m wide ledge at a height of about 1168 ft above sea level.

This aerial tour takes you to the 116th floor of Toronto's famous CN Tower, where a little ledge circles the building's exterior. Visitors to the game can stroll around the ledge while leaning out over the city 356 meters below while hanging by a harness and rope tied to an overhead rail.

The Edgewalk, which involves elastic suspensions fastened to participants' bodies, is one of the top activities in Canada for adventure seekers of all ages.

Location: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3L9, Canada

Timing: Thursday to Monday - 10 AM to 6 PM; Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday

Poutine, which consists of thick-cut fries covered in gravy and topped with squeaky cheese curds, is widely available across the nation, but Montréal, the hometown of the chef, is where you'll find the most inventive variations on the meal. For inventive toppings like guacamole and pulled pig in a lively setting, visit the 24-hour poutine shrine La Banquise; for the simple greasy spoon fare, visit places like Montreal Pool Room.

Schwartz's is another institution in Montréal that should be prioritized. For the people of Montréal, the renowned deli has been slicing mountains of smoked meat that has been marinated for 10 days between two slices of rye bread for over 90 years.

While Schwartz's take-out counter may tempt you to skip the line, dining in is worth the wait so you may share a sandwich with other patrons and the knowledgeable staff. The cherry Coke and pickle shouldn't be forgotten.

Explore the rich culture, art, and natural world on display at Canada's largest museum, the Royal Ontario Museum. In this amazing museum, you may see a vast collection of more than 12 million dazzling works of art, lovely cultural artifacts, and impressive natural history specimens on display.

The 40 galleries, special exhibitions, South Asian art, antique Egyptian antiquities, minerals and jewels, and dinosaur collections are all available for viewing.

The exhibits include astounding dinosaurs, enigmatic mummies, and sparkling diamonds. As they study how the Earth and its diverse civilizations have developed and evolved as well as how the changes that are taking place today will affect the future of the planet, visitors can expect to enjoy a wide variety of exceptional experiences. The Teck Suite of Galleries: Earth's Treasures, Galleries of Africa: Egypt and James and Louise Temerty Galleries of the Age of Dinosaurs are just a few of the galleries.

Location: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6, Canada

Price: CAD 17

Timing: 10 AM to 5.30 PM