Canada lands fifth spot in 2025 amongst travel hotspots globally, according to Travel + Leisure's recent quirky worldwide poll of the most fantastic destinations. Cities in Canada stood out starkly for their landmarks, culture, and value amidst thousands of votes cast by travelers worldwide.

 Rankings paint a diverse picture of Canadian cities that are appealing due to the utterly charming streets in Quebec City and the vibrancy in Halifax. Ontario cities failed to crack the top five again this year, signaling a shift in tourist tastes pretty dramatically now.

Travel + Leisure – Top Canadian Cities of 2025

Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards are globally recognized for providing rankings based on real traveler experiences. Each city was evaluated on six key categories:

  1. Sights & Landmarks
  2. Culture
  3. Food
  4. Friendliness
  5. Shopping
  6. Value

Here is a detailed look at how the cities ranked in the 2025 survey:

City Province Ranking in Canada Reader Score
Quebec City Quebec 1 86.79
Montreal Quebec 2 82.93
Vancouver British Columbia 3 82.79
Halifax Nova Scotia 4 82.26
Victoria British Columbia 5 80.70

What Makes These Cities the Best to Visit in Canada?

1. Quebec City, Quebec

Voted as the best city in Canada to visit in 2025, Quebec City has secured the top spot for the 10th consecutive year. Travelers love the city for its:

  1. UNESCO-listed Old Town (Vieux-Québec)
  2. European-style streets and historic buildings
  3. Authentic French cuisine and boutique shopping
  4. Winter beauty and cultural depth

Some travelers even compared it to visiting Paris, minus the long flight.

2. Montreal, Quebec

Second on the list is Montreal, often known as Canada’s cultural capital. It’s popular among visitors for:

  1. A unique blend of European charm and modern vibrancy
  2. Top-rated music festivals and international student life
  3. Renowned art galleries and diverse cuisine
  4. Historic Old Montreal and Mount Royal Park

3. Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver continues to be one of Canada’s favorite destinations due to its balance of nature and urban life. Tourists especially enjoy:

  1. Picturesque coastal views and hiking trails
  2. World-class seafood and multicultural restaurants
  3. Lively downtown core with art, culture, and nightlife

4. Halifax, Nova Scotia

Halifax is fast emerging as the hidden gem of Canada. Described by some voters as “up-and-coming,” the city impresses with:

  1. A vibrant waterfront filled with food, music, and events
  2. Forests and rugged natural beauty
  3. Maritime history and laid-back atmosphere

5. Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, wins hearts with its old-world charm and coastal elegance. Readers praised:

  1. British-style architecture and tea houses
  2. Beautiful green parks and gardens
  3. The famous Butchart Gardens, a top-rated attraction just outside the city

Travel + Leisure Survey Methodology 2025

Over 657,000 readers participated in the 2025 survey, submitting more than 8,700 entries rating global hotels, cities, and travel destinations. Each city’s final score is the average of ratings across all six categories.

Planning to Visit Canada? Here’s What You Need to Know About Visitor Visas

Before packing your bags to explore these top cities in Canada, it's important to understand the visa requirements.

Do You Need a Visitor Visa for Canada?

The answer depends on your citizenship. Here’s a simplified overview:

Table: Canada Travel Entry Requirements by Type

Category Requirement
Citizens of visa-required countries Must apply for a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)
Citizens of visa-exempt countries Must apply for an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) when flying
U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders Visa and eTA exempt
French nationals from St. Pierre and Miquelon Visa and eTA are exempt if flying directly into Canada

Visitor Visa Canada: Required for most foreign travelers, with varying processing times.

eTA Canada: Needed only for air travel, and can be applied for online for quick approval.

How Visa Solutions 4u Can Help You Travel to Canada

Planning to visit Canada’s top cities in 2025? Visa Solutions 4u makes the process simple and smooth. Here’s how they can assist:

  1. Personalized Visa Assessment to check if you need a visitor visa or eTA
  2. Step-by-step Guidance for document collection and submission
  3. Application Filing Support to ensure timely processing
  4. Updates & Reminders on processing time and interview schedules
  5. Expert Advice on travel tips, insurance, and post-arrival needs

Whether you're heading to Quebec City in the winter or exploring the coastal beauty of Victoria, Visa Solutions 4u ensures you’re travel-ready with the right documentation and guidance.

Conclusion

From tranquil landscapes unfurling glamorously in Victoria to cobblestone streets intricately winding their way through Quebec City, this list comprises Canada's top 10 hotels for 2025 travelers. Culturally and scenically endowed cities await tourists chasing unforgettable escapades nourished by real-life traveler experiences and tasty local cuisine everywhere. Are you ardently designing your travel itinerary, or are you casting your office to the wind for some last-minute trip somewhere overseas, maybe this summer? Have a careful check on visa eligibility, which Visa Solutions 4u will very much simplify for you. Canada is eagerly waiting while cities across the land constitutionally call out.