5 Best Cities in Canada: 2025 Travel + Leisure Awards

Quebec City has once again been crowned the #1 city in Canada for 2025, marking a decade of dominance in the Travel + Leisure World's Best Awards. This historic destination leads our definitive guide to the best cities in Canada for 2025, followed by the urban sophistication of Montreal, the coastal beauty of Vancouver, the maritime warmth of Halifax, and the refined heritage of Victoria.

As a senior travel critic, I have watched the evolution of the Canadian urban landscape for over twenty years. The 2025 rankings reflect a clear preference for destinations that balance historical preservation with modern culinary innovation. These results were determined by approximately 180,000 reader responses evaluating everything from accessibility to the quality of local hospitality. For travelers looking to plan their next North American escape, these five cities offer the most compelling arguments for your time and investment.

10 Years at the Top: Quebec City (#1)

Quebec City is the highest-ranked city on our list of the best cities in Canada for 2025, a position it has held with remarkable consistency. In fact, Quebec City was ranked as the top city in Canada for the 10th consecutive year in the World's Best Awards, earning a reader score of 86.79. This is not merely a win based on nostalgia; it is a testament to the city's ability to maintain its rigorous standards for tourism and preservation.

The primary draw remains Vieux-Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage site that transports visitors to 17th-century France. The European ambiance is palpable as you traverse the cobblestone streets of the Petit Champlain district. Unlike many historic centers that feel like museums, Quebec City remains a living, breathing community. The sounds of the French language, the smell of fresh crepes, and the sight of the Saint Lawrence River create a sensory experience that is unique in North America.

For those considering the best things to do in Quebec City during winter, the city truly shines during the colder months. While many destinations retreat indoors, Quebec embraces the frost. From the intricate ice sculptures of the Winter Carnival to the sprawling views of the frozen Saint Lawrence River, the city offers a romantic, cinematic quality. It is arguably the premier choice for travelers seeking best cities in Canada for history and French culture without the transatlantic flight.

At a Glance: Quebec City

• Reader Score: 86.79
• Primary Draw: UNESCO World Heritage architecture and French-Canadian gastronomy
• Best For: Romantic getaways and historical immersion
• Pro Tip: Take the ferry across the river for the most iconic views of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.

Metropolitan Elegance: Montreal (#2)

Securing the second spot with a score of 82.93, Montreal represents the cosmopolitan heartbeat of the country. This city is a study in contrasts, where the Gothic Revival architecture of the Notre-Dame Basilica stands only blocks away from sleek, modern skyscrapers. It is a place where every neighborhood has its own DNA, from the chic boutiques of Mile End to the historic charm of the Old Port.

Montreal has long been celebrated as a top-tier culinary destination. The city has more restaurants per capita than almost any other in North America, but it is the quality that truly sets it apart. Institutions like Joe Beef have gained global fame for their bold, locally sourced menus, making Montreal an essential stop for any serious diner. The city integrates its heritage into its modern lifestyle seamlessly, making it one of the most walkable cities in Canada for a city break.

When using a Canada city travel guide to plan your trip, Montreal often stands out for its festival culture. Whether it is the International Jazz Festival or Just for Laughs, the city is constantly alive with activity. It serves as a bridge between the old-world charm of Quebec and the global scale of Toronto, but with a distinct, artistic flair that is uniquely its own.

At a Glance: Montreal

• Reader Score: 82.93
• Primary Draw: World-class dining and vibrant arts scene
• Best For: Foodies and culture seekers
• Must-Try: Smoked meat sandwiches and a visit to the many local microbreweries.

Nature Meets Urban Luxury: Vancouver (#3)

Vancouver follows closely in the third position with a score of 82.79. While the eastern cities are defined by their history, Vancouver is defined by its environment. This is one of the few places in the world where you can spend your morning skiing on a mountain and your afternoon kayaking in the harbor. The stunning West Coast scenery is the city's greatest asset, providing a dramatic backdrop of mountain peaks and ocean vistas to its glass-and-steel skyline.

The city's urban greenspaces are world-renowned, with Stanley Park serving as the crown jewel. The Seawall, the longest uninterrupted oceanfront path in the world, offers bikers and joggers a front-row seat to the Pacific. For many travelers, Vancouver is the absolute must-visit cities in Canada because it offers a high standard of living alongside rugged natural beauty.

A vancouver food guide for first time visitors should always focus on the city's diverse Asian influence. The seafood here is unparalleled, and the Cantonese and Japanese dining scenes are often cited as the best in North America. Places like Vij’s have redefined what modern Indian cuisine can look like in a Canadian context. Vancouver is about clean air, fresh materials, and a commitment to the outdoors that is infectious.

At a Glance: Vancouver

• Reader Score: 82.79
• Primary Draw: The seamless integration of mountains, ocean, and city life
• Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts and luxury travelers
• Must-See: The Capilano Suspension Bridge and the Granville Island Public Market.

The Maritime Gem: Halifax (#4)

Halifax provides a departure from the massive scale of the top three cities, earning a score of 82.26. As the largest of the Atlantic provincial capitals, Halifax manages to feel both like a bustling port and a cozy seaside town. Readers consistently point to the friendliness of the locals and the overall value for money as reasons for its high ranking.

Is Halifax Nova Scotia worth visiting? For many, the answer lies in its maritime heritage and raw natural beauty. The city is surrounded by forest scenery and rugged Atlantic coastline, with historical sites like the Citadel Hill providing context to its military importance. The local diversity is reflected in the revitalized waterfront, where new restaurants and galleries are breathing fresh life into old piers.

Halifax is an ideal choice for travelers who want a more relaxed pace. It is a city of pubs, fiddles, and fresh lobster, where the connection to the sea is felt in every breeze. It serves as the gateway to the Maritimes, offering a culture that is warm, inviting, and deeply rooted in its surroundings.

At a Glance: Halifax

• Reader Score: 82.26
• Primary Draw: Maritime history and exceptionally friendly hospitality
• Best For: Slow travel and coastal exploration
• Iconic Spot: The Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk and a day trip to Peggy’s Cove.

British Charm in the Pacific: Victoria (#5)

Rounding out the top five is Victoria with a score of 80.70. Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, this city is often described as the most British city in Canada. Its architecture, specifically the Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress, reflects a devotion to old-world charm that has been meticulously maintained for over a century.

Planning a trip to Victoria BC and the Fairmont Empress is a rite of passage for many luxury travelers. The hotel recently underwent a significant renovation, blending modern comfort with its legendary afternoon tea service. Beyond the downtown core, the Butchart Gardens offer 55 acres of floral displays that are world-class in their design and maintenance.

Victoria is also a leading destination for marine wildlife. Whale watching tours are standard here, offering visitors the chance to see orcas and humpbacks in their natural habitat. It offers a quieter, more refined alternative to the energy of Vancouver, making it one of the top-rated Canadian cities for those who appreciate gardens, heritage, and the sea.

At a Glance: Victoria

• Reader Score: 80.70
• Primary Draw: Colonial architecture and world-famous gardens
• Best For: Retirees, luxury seekers, and families
• Don't Miss: The Inner Harbour at twilight when the Parliament Buildings are illuminated.

Traveling to Canada in 2025: Planning Tips

If you are planning to visit these best cities in Canada during the upcoming year, some logistical preparation will ensure a smooth trip. Canada is vast, and while the railway system offers scenic routes between Montreal and Quebec, you will likely need to fly between the East Coast and the West Coast. I recommend a travel window of 7 to 12 days if you plan to visit at least two provinces.

Connectivity is rarely an issue in these major urban centers, though many travelers now prefer using an eSIM for seamless data access across provincial capitals. It is also wise to keep an eye on seasonal weather patterns; while the winter months are magical in Quebec, the summer months in British Columbia and the Maritimes are peak season for a reason. Be aware of wildfire risks in the West during late August, and always book your stays at iconic properties like the Fairmont Empress well in advance.

The 2025 Travel + Leisure awards remind us that Canada’s strength lies in its diversity. Whether you seek the cobblestone streets of the east or the mountain trails of the west, these five cities provide a high-quality, safe, and enriching travel experience that few countries can match.

FAQ

What are the most beautiful cities to visit in Canada?

While beauty is subjective, Quebec City frequently wins top marks for its historical architecture and European feel. Vancouver is widely considered the most beautiful for its natural setting, where the mountains meet the Pacific Ocean. Victoria is also highly rated for its manicured gardens and charming Inner Harbour.

Is Toronto or Vancouver better for families?

Both cities offer excellent family amenities. Vancouver is often better for families that enjoy outdoor activities, such as biking the Seawall or visiting the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Toronto offers a larger variety of indoor museums, science centers, and major theme parks like Canada's Wonderland. For a 2025 trip, Vancouver’s proximity to nature often makes it a more relaxing family choice.

Which city in Canada has the mildest winters?

Victoria, British Columbia, generally has the mildest winters in Canada. Because of its location on the Pacific coast, it rarely experiences the heavy snowfall and extreme sub-zero temperatures found in cities like Montreal or Quebec City. It is often possible to see flowers blooming in Victoria as early as February.

What is the safest city to live in Canada?

Canada is generally ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. Among the cities listed in the 2025 Travel + Leisure awards, Quebec City and Victoria are consistently cited for their low crime rates and high quality of life. All five cities on this list are considered very safe for international tourists and residents alike.