Places that'll make you forget you haven't left the country

Dreaming of cobblestone streets in France or skiing in Switzerland? You don't need a long-haul flight—Canada offers similar experiences right in your backyard. 

Our beautifully diverse country features many unique experiences from coast to coast. Enjoy vibrant harbour towns with colourful buildings reminiscent of Scandinavia, turquoise waters that evoke the Greek islands, and blooming tulip fields straight out of a Dutch postcard—all uniquely Canadian. 

Lunenburg, NS – Copenhagen, Denmark

Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, is a harbour town that is so picturesque that it could be mistaken for Copenhagen's Nyhavn district. The vibrantly coloured buildings lining the waterfront are as charming as they are historic, and this UNESCO World Heritage Site carries a rich maritime legacy akin to the Danish capital. 

Stroll through Old Town Lunenburg, where historic wooden homes and architecture tell a vivid story of the shipbuilding and seafaring tradition. Make sure to eat some seafood while you're there.  

Victoria, BC – Oxford, England

Victoria, British Columbia, is often called "Canada's most English city," and it's easy to see why. With its manicured gardens, tea rooms, and grand architecture, Victoria resembles Oxford, England, blending modern energy with old-world charm.  

The city's walkable downtown mirrors Oxford's historic streets, where history and academia meet. The University of Victoria adds to the university-town feel. Victorian-era buildings surrounded by lush gardens evoke the same stately charm as Oxford's iconic libraries and colleges.  

Whether enjoying afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel or strolling through the Butchart Gardens, Victoria offers timeless, English-inspired beauty. 

The Grotto, Bruce Peninsula National Park, ON – Milos, Greece 

The Grotto, carved into the rugged cliffs of Bruce Peninsula National Park, looks like a slice of Greece's Milos Island. With its striking blue-green waters and dramatic limestone formations, it's Ontario's answer to the Mediterranean escape. 

Getting here involves a scenic hike through the park's lush trails, passing unique flora and fauna. Once at The Grotto, you can swim, snorkel, or relax by the shoreline and enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty. 

Quebec City, QC – Vannes, France

Quebec City is one of the most European-looking destinations in North America. Similar to Vannes, France, it features cobblestone streets, centuries-old architecture, and historic city walls. Quebec City's fortified walls, the only ones of their kind in Canada, mirror the medieval charm of Vannes' ramparts. 

Exploring Old Quebec feels like stepping into a fairytale with its Gothic undertones and rich French history. The Quartier Petit Champlain, filled with quaint boutiques and cozy cafés, resembles Vannes' narrow streets, while landmarks like Château Frontenac capture European opulence with a Canadian flair. 

Banff, AB – Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Banff's rugged peaks and snowy vistas feel straight out of the Swiss Alps. The pristine landscapes, including turquoise lakes, towering glaciers, and fresh mountain air, create an outdoor paradise. Banff National Park boasts world-renowned hiking trails, hot springs, and serene views that rival the beauty of Switzerland's iconic alpine towns. 

One of the most enchanting ways to experience Banff is aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. This luxurious train ride offers panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies through oversized glass-domed windows, making it a truly magical journey. Even better, CAA Members enjoy exclusive savings when booking their trip aboard Rocky Mountaineer. 

East Coast Trail, Newfoundland –Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

Newfoundland's East Coast Trail is a striking parallel to Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way in many ways. Both offer dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and rugged, untamed beauty that captivates hikers at every turn. Just like Ireland's famous Cliffs of Moher, the East Coast Trail boasts steep, rocky cliffs that rise majestically over the Atlantic Ocean, offering panoramic views that are simply unforgettable.  

Dinosaur Provincial Park, AB – Australian Badlands

Step into another world at Dinosaur Provincial Park. The striking hoodoos, eroded canyons, and fossil-rich landscapes will remind travellers of Australia's rugged Outback. Both destinations are shaped by eons of natural forces, creating surreal and breathtaking environments. 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for paleontology enthusiasts. Join a guided tour to search for dinosaur fossils or explore the hiking trails that wind through dramatic rock formations. Camping here offers an unforgettable experience of sleeping under Alberta's starry skies. 

Okanagan Valley, BC – Cape Winelands, South Africa

The Okanagan Valley in British Columbia offers sprawling vineyards and sunlit vineyards that rival South Africa's Cape Winelands. This region is Canada's premier wine country, with shimmering lakes and an idyllic climate. 

Take a scenic drive through the valley and stop at award-winning wineries for tastings. Local markets, lakeside kayaking, and farm-to-table dining make it perfect for foodies and adventure-seekers. For a unique perspective, try a hot-air balloon ride over the vineyards for panoramic views of rolling green hills. 

Churchill, MB - Tromsø, Norway

Churchill, Manitoba, can easily be compared to Tromsø, Norway, as both are magical destinations for viewing the Northern Lights. Located beneath the auroral oval, Churchill offers some of the best chances to witness the dancing colours of the aurora borealis. 

Visitors can also experience unique wildlife encounters, including polar bears in the fall and beluga whales in the summer. The icy tundra, vibrant skies, and arctic charm make Churchill feel like a piece of Norway in Canada. 

Abbotsford, BC – Bollenstreek Region, Netherlands

Frolic through 35 acres of colourful tulips in Abbotsford, British Columbia, that will transport you to the famous Dutch fields. You don't need to book a flight to Amsterdam or plan to visit Keukenhof Garden near the city or one of the many blooming spectacles in the country to experience this magical spring attraction.  

Plan to visit Lakeland Flowers on Canada's west coast during its annual tulip festival from mid-April to mid-May. The festival also features food trucks, live paintings, musical entertainment and photo opportunities, including massive Dutch clogs and bicycles.  

Montreal, QC – Paris, France

Montreal's European charm makes it a natural counterpart to Paris; one feature highlights this connection. At the Square-Victoria–OACI metro station, you'll find an Art Nouveau metro sign designed by Hector Guimard, the architect behind the original Paris Metro entrances.  

This historic piece was gifted to Montreal by Paris in 1967 to celebrate their collaboration on Montreal's subway system. With its intricate curves and timeless elegance, the sign symbolizes the strong cultural ties between the two cities—a slice of Parisian art and history in the heart of Montreal. 

Explore Canada 

Ready to start planning your vacation? Book an appointment with a CAA Travel Consultant to start planning your trip. CAA Members get exclusive benefits and perks on travel around the world that no one else can access.