Canada offers a wide range of holiday options whether you're travelling by land, sea or river. The cosmopolitan cities along the east coast provide plenty to see and do, whilst also introducing you to French-Canadian culture. Meanwhile, across this giant landmass, in the west, the Rocky Mountains act as a breathtaking backdrop for a ride on the Rocky Mountaineer railway or some relaxing time in Vancouver or Calgary.
Cruises frequent ply both routes, giving you the perfect vantage point from which to see the changing colours of autumn (east) or the ideal starting point when sailing north to Alaska (west). The Great Lakes, which extend into Canada, and the Gulf of St Lawrence even offer a route inland where you can explore these beautiful regions on board a river cruise.
Eastern Canada has much to offer; Halifax and St John are the gateways to Nova Scotia's picturesque landscapes and unspoiled rugged natural beauty. New Brunswick boasts vast forests, purling streams, gentle hills, rich farmlands, and a spectacular coastline dotted by historic towns. Prince Edward Island is Canada's smallest providence in terms of area and population, but more than makes up for this with the friendliness of its people and its natural beauty.
It will take a couple of days to explore the architecture and ambiance of Quebec. The mostly French-speaking citizenry shows that some of France has been permanently ingrained in North America. In addition to its European flair, Quebec City is the only remaining walled city north of Mexico. Enjoy the views or explore the walking trails of Newfoundland from the town of Corner Brook, an island filled with magnificent fjords, thick forests and jagged headlands.
In the West, you Canadian tour may stop in Victoria and Vancouver. Once a British colonial post, Victoria is full of historic sites, public parks and groomed gardens. Due to its location, this quaint yet sophisticated little seaside city boasts the mildest climate in Canada.
Often thought of as the country's most beautiful city, Vancouver is a gorgeous thriving metropolis that's fortunate enough to be flanked by the ocean and mountains. With its numerous parks, beaches, gardens, museums, art galleries and ethnic diversity, it's one of those rare places that actually lives up to its promise of offering something for everyone. Keep an eye out for the wildlife - whales, moose, deer and bears are just a small portion of what you could see here.
