Summer Travel Inspiration: Road Trip Edition
Photo by Robert Poulton c/o Destination Canada
Summer is made for road tripping and Canada has no shortage of incredible routes. Follow forest-lined roads, explore rugged coastlines and get lost in the vastness of the landscape.
With summer just around the corner, we wanted to offer our picks for the best road trips for 2023. We have convenient ready-to-go itineraries that combine incredible sights with great accommodations. All you need to worry about is the snacks!
Québec: Wilderness & Whales
14-day trip through La Belle Province
Cap-au-Saumon Lighthouse in Charlevoix Quebec. Photo by Pierre Lambert and Claude Parent.
Explore Quebec’s two largest cities, Montreal and Quebec City, as well as some lesser-known regions that will stun you with their beauty and access to nature. Swim in sprawling Lac Taureau in the foothills of the Laurentians, explore forests in the Mauricie region, go whale watching on the St. Lawrence, take in the scenic beauty of Charlevoix and visit the lovely Eastern Townships. Turn an ordinary road trip into an extraordinary experience with this well-planned itinerary through Quebec that includes stays in boutique inns and cozy resorts.
Georgian Bay Coast
9-day trip on one of Ontario’s most scenic routes
Georgian Bay Islands National Park. Photo by Parks Canada / Ethan Meleg
Explore rich heritage and beautiful scenery on a 9-day road trip around Georgian Bay. This coastal route stops at some of the most spectacular spots around the Bay and allows for plenty of time to take in the views and learn about the history of the area.
Visit Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater island in the world, canoe and walk the forest trails with local Indigenous guides, see famous shipwrecks and ride the MS Chi-Cheemaun Ferry or tour the North Channel on a guided cruise. On this comprehensive road trip, you’ll also visit Sudbury’s famous underground museum, sail among the 30,000 islands, and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Killarney.
Western Canada: Mountains, Lakes and Coastal Lodges
17-day trip through Alberta and British Columbia
Banff National Park
Go from the heights of the Rocky Mountains to the rainforests at the edge of the Pacific Ocean on this 17-day self-drive tour of Western Canada. This well-planned itinerary hits all the must-see attractions while also taking you to some hidden gems that many miss. Enjoy the glacier-fed lakes of Banff National Park in all their turquoise glory, drive along the famous Icefields Parkway, explore the Sunshine Coast and visit ancient giants on Vancouver Island. All the details and accommodations are taken care of for you so all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the unforgettable scenery at every turn.
Journey to the Heart of the Yukon
7-day trip through Canada’s north
Paddle down the historic Yukon River and take a walk across the world’s smallest desert. Hike in the stunning Kluane National Park and explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Yukon’s southwest.
With a guided itinerary, you’ll have plenty of time to visit the top local attractions while taking in the stunning views at your own pace. Enjoy long summer days filled with endless adventures, from exploring Whitehorse and Tagish to Haines Junction and the Alsek Valley. This is an unforgettable road trip to the heart of the Yukon.
Atlantic Canada: Highlands and Islands
9-day trip through the Maritimes
Photo c/o Tourism Nova Scotia / Photographer: Adam Hill
Experience salty sea air, sweeping ocean views and delicious seafood on a 9-day road trip to Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia. You’ll soon see that no matter where you are in the Maritimes, you’re never far from the sea as it influences life throughout the region.
On this road trip, you’ll explore the coastal capital cities of Charlottetown and Halifax, drive along the stunning Cabot Trail, cross one of the world’s largest bridges and enjoy the warmth and hospitality of Canada’s East Coast. Dotted with picturesque villages, spectacular scenery and some of the friendliest people in the country, this road trip will leave you dreaming of your next visit to the Maritimes.
For more Canadian road trip ideas, visit our dedicated road trip page or contact us for a custom itinerary.
