Canada is one of the most spectacular winter destinations in the world, with snow-capped mountains and world-class skiing. On a trip to the country, you’ll have the chance to see the aurora borealis on a clear night, as well as historic French-inspired cities.
Here are four standout Canadian destinations to visit in winter 2025-2026, each offering something unique for your next holiday.
Alpine Thrills in the Western Rockies
For those who love the slopes, the Western provinces of British Columbia and Alberta are unrivalled.
The regions are home to some of the world’s premier ski resorts, including massive Whistler Blackcomb and the SkiBig 3 trio of Sunshine Village, Lake Louise, and Mount Norquay.
The most famous ski resort is Whistler Blackcomb, which has over 8,000 acres of terrain and a great alpine village.
Beyond Whistler, you can find the hidden gem, Okanagan Valley which hosts smaller resorts that combine both reliable snow conditions and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere for tourists.
On days where you feel like you want to try something new and different, you can try snowshoeing and ice skating or unwind in a luxury spa after a long day of being out in the crisp mountain air in Jasper, as it offers a more laid-back experience with lesser crowds.
Fairytale Festivals in Historic Québec
Eastern Canada provides a very different but enchanting winter experience. Québec City is known for its cobbled streets and old architecture buildings that portray a scene from a snow globe in the winter.
Its world-famous Winter Carnival is one of the largest and most vibrant celebrations of its kind. You can take the kids to marvel at the towering ice palace and meet Bonhomme (the carnival’s beloved snowman mascot), before enjoying snow rafting and ice canoe races.
Old Québec is a UNESCO-listed old town that is worth exploring. There are lots of cosy cafes serving French-inspired cuisine like poutine and Pâté chinois, which is the Canadian take on shepherd’s pie.
Hunting the Celestial Show: The Northern Lights
No Canadian winter trip is complete without the chance to see the northern lights. While the sightings can never be guaranteed to see the shimmering curtains of green, purple, green and red light dance across the sky.
The Northwest Territories are one of the best places to view the phenomenon of the northern lights.
Yellowknife is located directly under the auroral oval, which makes it the perfect spot for viewing the Northern Lights. The best months for sightings are from late November to early April, when clear nights increase the odds of being able to view the dazzling display.
Coastal Charm and Winter Waterways
Halifax is the region’s cultural hub that offers lively pubs and fresh seafood – perfect at home spot for Brits. The waterfront showcases the coastal charm that the region has and is perfect for strolls after warming up with a bowl of seafood chowder after a long day out.
Beyond the city life, there are national parks such as Cape Breton Highlands which transform into such stunning landscapes in the winter, perfect for hikes or snowshoeing. Visitors arriving in the region during the winter on Canada cruises will find a quieter, more intimate way to enjoy the country’s rugged beauty.
Those who love the sea can’t miss the contrast of icy waters against coastal cliffs for stunning photo opportunities.