The ultimate road trip destination
Travel to Canada and explore the unspoilt wilderness of it's forests, lakes and mountains. With big cities and a unique North American culture to boot. Imagine the ultimate adventure in the second largest country on Earth, from spending the summer by Canada's iconic lakes, to soaking up the culture in Québec or checking out the urban cafe scene in Vancouver.
Canada fast facts
Languages Spoken
The official languages of Canada are English and French (mainly spoken in Quebec).
Currency
Name: Canadian Dollar Code: CAD Symbol: $
Time Zones
Newfoundland Time (GMT - 2:30) Atlantic Time (GMT - 3) Eastern Standard time (GMT - 5) Central time (GMT - 6) Mountain Time (GMT - 7) Pacific Time (GMT - 8)
Top cities in Canada
It may be famous for being outdoorsy, but Canada's big cities offer world-class cultural experiences as well. Head to one of Toronto's music festivals, soak up the atmosphere at Calgary stampede, or sample the craft beer culture in Vancouver.
Canada travel costs
Beers
Expect to pay between $4 and $7 for a beer in a bar. It is customary to tip bar staff, with around $1 per drink. Beers will be more expensive in cities like Toronto and Vancouver.
Meals
Snacks and meals from markets and supermarkets are between $8-$12, whilst dinner in a good restaurant will usually start from around $20 plus drinks.
Taxi Ride
The cost of a taxi in Canada depends on the city. Toronto and Vancouver are generally more expensive, but more cabs will be on the meter.
Transport
Travel on buses and subways will cost around $3. To travel independently, you can book a campervan with us from just £17pp per day!
Hostels
Dorm beds in hostels will cost between $25 and $40. Campsites are likely to be $25 to $35.
Hotels
A room in a midrange hotel would be somewhere between $80 and $100 - but expect to pay more in the major cities and during peak season.
When to go to Canada
Canada Highlights
What to do in Canada
Work in Canada
Canada is a great country for a Working Holiday and our experts can help you apply for a visa and with job search so that you can hit the ground running and focus on planning your adventures.
Canada Adventure Tours
Explore Canada in two weeks with a small group tour. Make new friends while you journey to Canada's best sights and popular cities! All tours include transport and accommodation.
Canada Mini-Adventures
Find day- and multiple-day tours in all areas of Canada, from the Niagara Falls to the Rockies and around your favourite Canadian cities, we have small mini-adventures to suit all needs and budgets.
How to travel around Canada?
Campervan Hire
The picture-perfect scenery in Canada will blow your mind. Hire a campervan and hit the open road, stop off in remote campsites and really get into the wild!
Canada Rail Passes
Our flexible rail passes allow you to explore the best of Canada, check out our rail passes now and kickstart your Canada adventure.
Canada Bus Adventures
Discover a range of fixed itinerary trips on set departure dates or if you fancy exploring the West Coast then you can either choose to do your selected route with or without included accommodation.
Grand Canadian
Get cosy with your Contiki crew in New York & Boston before we get to the meat of the matter & explore incredible Canada. We'll stay in Jasper National Park, see waterfalls, lakes & mountains aplenty, & bust moves in Vancouver & Toronto to balance things out. Scenery & cities collide! Get to visit the best of the best.
Includes:
19 nights accommodation and 18 meals
All transport between destinations
Scenic drives through the lillooet Mountain range
View Mt Robson and maligne Canyon and Lake
Visit Banff National park
Includes:
19 nights accommodation and 18 meals
All transport between destinations
Scenic drives through the lillooet Mountain range
View Mt Robson and maligne Canyon and Lake
Visit Banff National park
20 days
See Tour
Canada and the Rockies
If lush landscapes are enough to bring a tear to your eye, then British Colombia & Alberta will see you weeping. We'll start in the charming village of Whistler, weaving on to the likes of the Lillooet Mountain Range, Jasper, & Banff, before finally landing amongst the cool vibes of Vancouver. Sign yourself up to countless adventure opportunities along the way.
Includes:
10 nights accommodation and 10 meals
Breathe fresh Alpine air in Whistler
Explore scenic Jasper National Park
Roll onto the Athabasca Glacier
Picnic in the Rockies
Includes:
10 nights accommodation and 10 meals
Breathe fresh Alpine air in Whistler
Explore scenic Jasper National Park
Roll onto the Athabasca Glacier
Picnic in the Rockies
11 days
See Tour
The Powder Rush Skiing
Love the mountain life, but love exploring too? This group adventure is a holiday plus ski or boarding trip all rolled into one epic trip - the perfect winter experience at some of the Canada’s best winter destinations. Carve it up!
Includes:
8 nights accommodation and 11 meals
Vancouver city-sightseeing
Visit Capilano suspension bridge
Gondola ride in Banff
Includes:
8 nights accommodation and 11 meals
Vancouver city-sightseeing
Visit Capilano suspension bridge
Gondola ride in Banff
9 days
See Tour
Do I need a visa for Canada?
Most international visitors (including those from Australia) require an eTA (electronic Travel Authorization) or a visitor visa if they enter Canada by air. If you travel by land or sea, you do not need an eTA. However, you must always travel with acceptable travel documents and identification.
How can I work in Canada?
A working holiday visa for Canada is valid for 24 months and is available to those aged 18-30. We can help you apply for a Canadian Working Holiday Visa or give assistance with finding a job when you are in Canada.
Need a little more inspiration? Check out the STA Travel blog!
STA Travel Blog
What are the unmissable Sights around Ontario And Toronto?
STA Travel Blog
12 reasons not to go to Canada
STA Travel Blog