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Road Trips in Canada

Canada is the quintessence of freedom, adventure, and untouched nature. The dreamland for those who love road trips and outdoor activities. Wherever you go in Canada, everything seems huge. Open spaces predominate, and big cities are rare. The distances between them are measured in hundreds of kilometers, this is often true for gas stations as well. Therefore, always pay attention to the fuel gauge and road signs. But rest assured nothing in Canada will spoil your road trip experience. 

You will always have no problems traveling by car or motorhome in Canada. However, if the north of the country should be your destination, much better preparation for the road trip is expected from you. Here, the road conditions are significantly worse and the tourist infrastructure in large parts is not available at all. So fuel the vehicle whenever possible, always carry spare wheels, and make sure you have enough food supplies on board. In the south of Canada, all this is not expected from you, here the infrastructure is very good and various services can be found much more often than in Canada's north.
Outside the summer months, it is advisable to regularly check the passability of the chosen route before setting out. Local radio stations, the sheriff's office, or the nearest gas station are good sources of information. 

Canada offers attractions for every taste. Those looking for culture and shopping will probably not want to miss the cities of Vancouver, Calgary, Winnipeg, Toronto, and Montreal. Those looking for seclusion will not miss the islands: Haida Gwaii, Vancouver Island, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland. Nature lovers head straight for the countless national parks. The highlights are literally experienced here in the parks of the Rocky Mountains. The more adventurous among you should steer the vehicle directly to the Alaska Highway and if time and courage permit, tackle the Dempster Highway. 
Basically, Western Canada is considered the realm of adventurers and explorers. This is also true today for car travelers and possible road trips. Eastern Canada is much better developed and easier to experience.  

Expect on your itinerary

Comfort Comfort
Nature Nature
Road conditions Road conditions
Shopping Shopping
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Urban life Urban life
Value Value
Security Security

Best months to drive

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VII VIII IX X XI XII
 

Discover Road Trips in Canada

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Epic Gold Rush Road Trip Epic Gold Rush Road Trip
Epic Gold Rush Road Trip
North America - United States
7,678 km 74 km/h 30 days roadtrip
Cabot Trail Road Trip Cabot Trail Road Trip
Cabot Trail Road Trip
North America - Canada
290 km 68 km/h 3 days scenic
Icefields Parkway Road Trip Icefields Parkway Road Trip
Icefields Parkway Road Trip
North America - Canada
318 km 61 km/h 1 days scenic
Prince Edward Island Road Trip Prince Edward Island Road Trip
Prince Edward Island Road Trip
North America - Canada
830 km 64 km/h 7 days roadtrip
Newfoundland Viking Road Trip Newfoundland Viking Road Trip
Newfoundland Viking Road Trip
North America - Canada
435 km 85 km/h 3 days scenic
Trans Canada Highway Road Trip Trans Canada Highway Road Trip
Trans Canada Highway Road Trip
North America - Canada
7,528 km 89 km/h 28 days roadtrip
The Last Wild Road Trip The Last Wild Road Trip
The Last Wild Road Trip
North America - United States
10,584 km 76 km/h 40 days roadtrip
British Columbia Rockies Road Trip British Columbia Rockies Road Trip
British Columbia Rockies Road Trip
North America - Canada
187 km 43 km/h 2 days scenic
Top of the World Road Trip Top of the World Road Trip
Top of the World Road Trip
North America - Canada
1,095 km 72 km/h 3 days roadtrip
Western Canada Classic Road Trip Western Canada Classic Road Trip
Western Canada Classic Road Trip
North America - Canada
1,959 km 69 km/h 14 days roadtrip
Eastern Canada Classic Road Trip Eastern Canada Classic Road Trip
Eastern Canada Classic Road Trip
North America - Canada
6,155 km 81 km/h 28 days roadtrip
New York to Alaska Road Trip New York to Alaska Road Trip
New York to Alaska Road Trip
North America - United States
9,387 km 90 km/h 28 days roadtrip
Rocky Mountains Highlights Road Trip Rocky Mountains Highlights Road Trip
Rocky Mountains Highlights Road Trip
North America - United States
6,044 km 87 km/h 22 days roadtrip
Grand Alaska - Yukon Road Trip Grand Alaska - Yukon Road Trip
Grand Alaska - Yukon Road Trip
North America - United States
4,640 km 59 km/h 21 days roadtrip
Inside Passage Road Trip Inside Passage Road Trip
Inside Passage Road Trip
North America - Canada
2,637 km 60 km/h 14 days roadtrip
On Stewart-Cassiar Hwy Road Trip On Stewart-Cassiar Hwy Road Trip
On Stewart-Cassiar Hwy Road Trip
North America - Canada
1,082 km 57 km/h 3 days roadtrip
Haida Gwaii Scenic Drive Haida Gwaii Scenic Drive
Haida Gwaii Scenic Drive
North America - Canada
127 km 67 km/h 1 days scenic
Kootenays Road Trip Kootenays Road Trip
Kootenays Road Trip
North America - Canada
897 km 71 km/h 4 days roadtrip
Old Canada Road Trip Old Canada Road Trip
Old Canada Road Trip
North America - United States
263 km 70 km/h 1 days scenic
Maine Road Trip Maine Road Trip
Maine Road Trip
North America - United States
1,750 km 67 km/h 18 days roadtrip
Desert to the Rockies Road Trip Desert to the Rockies Road Trip
Desert to the Rockies Road Trip
North America - United States
3,201 km 83 km/h 12 days roadtrip
Great Northern US 2 Road Trip Great Northern US 2 Road Trip
Great Northern US 2 Road Trip
North America - United States
5,209 km 70 km/h 21 days roadtrip
Dempster Highway Road Trip Dempster Highway Road Trip
Dempster Highway Road Trip
North America - Canada
774 km 39 km/h 3 days roadtrip
Okanagan Valley Road Trip Okanagan Valley Road Trip
Okanagan Valley Road Trip
North America - Canada
438 km 67 km/h 3 days roadtrip
Vancouver Island Road Trip Vancouver Island Road Trip
Vancouver Island Road Trip
North America - Canada
824 km 73 km/h 5 days roadtrip
Nanaimo to Tofino Panoramic Road Nanaimo to Tofino Panoramic Road
Nanaimo to Tofino Panoramic Road
North America - Canada
204 km 67 km/h 1 days scenic
Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip
Gaspe Peninsula Road Trip
North America - Canada
2,213 km 68 km/h 10 days roadtrip
Georgian Bay Road Trip Georgian Bay Road Trip
Georgian Bay Road Trip
North America - Canada
1,809 km 121 km/h 7 days roadtrip
Canada Road Trip Canada Road Trip
Canada Road Trip
North America - Canada
11,081 km 90 km/h 34 days roadtrip
Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip
Sea to Sky Highway Road Trip
North America - Canada
146 km 79 km/h 2 days scenic
Fraser Valley Road Trip Fraser Valley Road Trip
Fraser Valley Road Trip
North America - Canada
165 km 65 km/h 2 days scenic
Sunshine Coast Road Trip Sunshine Coast Road Trip
Sunshine Coast Road Trip
North America - Canada
328 km 40 km/h 2 days scenic
South Vancouver Island Road Trip South Vancouver Island Road Trip
South Vancouver Island Road Trip
North America - Canada
286 km 45 km/h 3 days roadtrip
Kootenay N.P. Panorama Route Kootenay N.P. Panorama Route
Kootenay N.P. Panorama Route
North America - Canada
105 km 78 km/h 1 days scenic
Klondike Road Trip Klondike Road Trip
Klondike Road Trip
North America - Canada
708 km 74 km/h 2 days scenic
Lake Superior Shores Road Trip Lake Superior Shores Road Trip
Lake Superior Shores Road Trip
North America - Canada
1,002 km 89 km/h 3 days roadtrip
East Canada Road Trip East Canada Road Trip
East Canada Road Trip
North America - Canada
2,003 km 82 km/h 14 days roadtrip
Okanagan Wine Trip Okanagan Wine Trip
Okanagan Wine Trip
North America - Canada
37 km 45 km/h 2 days scenic
Alberta Classic Road Trip Alberta Classic Road Trip
Alberta Classic Road Trip
North America - Canada
1,016 km 90 km/h 4 days roadtrip
Silver Mines Scenic Drive Silver Mines Scenic Drive
Silver Mines Scenic Drive
North America - Canada
110 km 54 km/h 1 days scenic
Niagara Peninsula Panorama Route Niagara Peninsula Panorama Route
Niagara Peninsula Panorama Route
North America - Canada
46 km 43 km/h 1 days scenic
Connecticut River Road Trip Connecticut River Road Trip
Connecticut River Road Trip
North America - United States
472 km 59 km/h 3 days roadtrip
Michigan Road Trip Michigan Road Trip
Michigan Road Trip
North America - United States
3,037 km 81 km/h 14 days roadtrip
Lake Superior Panoramic Road Lake Superior Panoramic Road
Lake Superior Panoramic Road
North America - United States
308 km 83 km/h 1 days scenic
Minnesota Road Trip Minnesota Road Trip
Minnesota Road Trip
North America - United States
2,428 km 85 km/h 12 days roadtrip
Selkirk Road Trip Selkirk Road Trip
Selkirk Road Trip
North America - United States
463 km 68 km/h 3 days roadtrip
Lake Erie Road Trip Lake Erie Road Trip
Lake Erie Road Trip
North America - Canada
1,085 km 60 km/h 7 days roadtrip
Southern Saskatchewan Road Trip Southern Saskatchewan Road Trip
Southern Saskatchewan Road Trip
North America - Canada
657 km 86 km/h 2 days scenic
North of Saskatoon Scenic Drive North of Saskatoon Scenic Drive
North of Saskatoon Scenic Drive
North America - Canada
418 km 91 km/h 2 days scenic
Algonquin Road Trip Algonquin Road Trip
Algonquin Road Trip
North America - Canada
191 km 68 km/h 2 days scenic

Road Trip Highlights in Canada

All those who want to explore Canada thoroughly and have the necessary time will probably try their luck on the Trans Canada Highway. The journey on this route is a great and unique Canada experience. Unfortunately, most travelers do not have the time and still want to see both Eastern and Western Canada. For all those, it remains to divide the Canada trip into two separate sections and combine them with a domestic flight. This way you can enjoy Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Quebec as well as British Columbia, Vancouver Island and Alberta.
For the more adventurous among you, Yukon and its Klondike remain a secret.

 

Canada is a treasure trove of urban jewels and natural pristine gems. Travel to Toronto, located a stone’s throw away from Lake Erie, to soak up its lively atmosphere. If you are a fan of art, you shouldn’t miss the Gardiner Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario. However, there are also plenty of attractions for fans of history, architecture, and local landmarks. A couple of steps away, you’ll find Canada’s must-see attraction, Niagara Falls.

For great entertainment venues, you should definitely consider a trip to Vancouver. Located by the Pacific Ocean, it offers a beautiful panorama of the city against the backdrop of a large marina and snow-covered summits. A cherry on top will be a visit to Stanley Park which is a true breath of fresh air away from all the large metropolises of Canada.

Holidaymakers who would like to bond with Mother Nature should travel to the Canadian Rockies. The Banff National Park is a stunning showcase of what Canada holds in store for fans of outdoor activities. Jasper National Park is an equally beautiful place to visit, yet it's less popular among tourists (which might be an advantage for some). Fishing, canoeing, cycling, or whitewater rafting – what’s your favorite way of spending family holidays?

Slightly less popular, yet equally beautiful, are the Maritime Provinces. Here, you’ll find the fascinating Halifax offering a top-notch starting point for the exploration of the dramatic coastline. In Saint John, you can admire a small harbor studded with plenty of top-notch local restaurants. For a more relaxed and laidback ambiance, you can travel to Charlottetown, known and valued for its Victorian architecture, entertainment venues, and charming streets.

Canadian prairies at its best can be found around Winnipeg which is an excellent town to explore Canadian historical landmarks, bars, and cultural spots. It is located a short drive from another interesting and less popular city of Churchill, from where you’ll have a picturesque view of Hudson Bay. It’s also a must-see attraction if you would like to try beluga whale watching.

Suggested Road Trips in Canada

Most important traffic regulations in Canada

Motorists travelling around Canada will be glad to hear that the country follows right-hand traffic, especially those motorists who come from a similar driving environment. Due to the fact that there are vast spaces to cover around Canada, it’s best if you plan ahead with all of the travel details already in your head. The greatest danger on the road is stray animals that can run across the street just in front of your car.

Speed limits depend on the road type as well as driver's experience. Speed limits for most passenger vehicles are 50 km/h (in built-up areas), 100 km/h (on highways), and 100 km/h (on rural highways and freeways).

In Canada, you need to be 16 to get your driver’s licence. However, most car rental companies will require you to be 21 in order to rent a vehicle. Unfortunately, motorists who are between 21 and 24 years of age will be charged a daily fee. It is also required to have a minimum of a third-party insurance.

Don’t be surprised as on-the-spot fines are a normal phenomenon in some provinces. However, in most cases you’ll receive a ticket that has to be paid within a specified period of time. On-the-spot fines concern only really minor offences.

Whenever you are stopped by police officers, you should switch your engine off and remain in your seat. Never try to bribe police officers as it is perceived as a very serious offence.

Some provinces will require you to have your dipped beam on throughout the day. What’s more, don’t be surprised if you come across road signs that are in French.

Canada: required documents and blood alcohol limit

In case of a road check, you'll be asked to show such documents as driver’s licence, insurance documents, and your ID with a photo.

Canada follows very strict regulations concerning drinking and driving. The limit is 0.08%; however, careless behaviour can take you way beyond the limit. Interestingly, some provinces have a lower limit of 0.05%. They also vary in terms of penalties a

Speed camera warning devices are seen as illegal in Canada and you might be required to pay a fine amounting up to $650 in some of the Canadian provinces. 

Toll roads in Canada

Canada offers superb driving conditions; however, there are a number of toll roads. These include: the Ontario Highway 407, the Quebec Autoroute 30, the Cobequid Pass, Ontario Highway 412, and the British Columbia Highway 5, These might be expensive and there are additional costs if you decide to use the automatic pass. Your rental company will receive a bill for you and add it to your credit card charges.

When taking a Road Trip in Canada

In conclusion, taking a road trip in Canada can be a wonderful experience, but it's important to be prepared and aware of the unique challenges and considerations of traveling in this vast and diverse country.

Best Time for taking a Road Trip in Canada

The best time for taking a road trip in Canada depends on your personal preferences and travel goals. Generally, the best time to visit Canada varies depending on the region.

In the summer months (June to August), the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and road trips. However, summer is also the peak tourist season in many popular destinations, so crowds and higher prices are to be expected.

In the fall (September to November), the weather is mild and the landscapes are ablaze with vibrant autumn colors, making it a great time for scenic drives. However, it is also a time when weather conditions can become unpredictable, and snow can start to fall in higher elevations.

In the winter months (December to February), Canada transforms into a winter wonderland, offering opportunities for winter sports and scenic drives through snow-covered landscapes. However, road conditions can become challenging due to snow and ice, and remote areas can become inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.

In the spring (March to May), the weather starts to warm up, and the landscape starts to come to life with new growth and wildflowers. However, road conditions can still be unpredictable, and spring is also the time for mud season in some areas, which can make roads difficult to travel on.

In conclusion, the best time for taking a road trip in Canada will depend on your personal preferences and travel goals, as well as the region you plan to visit. Regardless of when you choose to go, it's always important to be prepared for the weather and road conditions.

How expensive is a Road Trip in Canada

The cost of a road trip in Canada can vary greatly depending on your travel style and preferences.

In terms of accommodation, there are options available to suit different budgets. Basic hotels, motels, and hostels are affordable and can cost around $50-100 per night. Mid-range hotels can cost around $100-200 per night, and luxury hotels can cost upwards of $300 per night.

Food and drink in Canada can also vary greatly in cost depending on where you are and what you eat. You can expect to pay around $10-20 for a basic meal at a local restaurant or fast food outlet, while upscale restaurants can cost upwards of $50 per person.

When it comes to transportation, renting a car can be a good option for a road trip in Canada. Rental car prices can vary depending on the type of car you choose and the rental company you use. Generally, you can expect to pay around $30-50 per day to rent a basic car, with prices increasing for more luxurious or high-end options.

In addition to car rental, you can also consider using public transportation to get around. Canada has an extensive bus and train network that can take you to many destinations, with fares usually ranging from $10-50 per journey depending on distance and the level of service.

Overall, the cost of a road trip in Canada will depend on your travel style and the type of activities you plan to undertake. Canada is generally considered an expensive country compared to some others, but with careful planning and budgeting, you can still have an enjoyable road trip without breaking the bank.

Guidebooks and Road Maps for Road Trip in Canada

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that may be helpful for a road trip in Canada:

Remember to always double-check information from different sources and to take note of any changes or updates to road conditions or attractions. Additionally, Canada is a vast country with varied terrain and weather conditions, so it's important to be prepared and plan your trip accordingly.

Discover best Road Trips in North America