Best Canada East Tours & Trips

Main Cities & Destinations: Where to Go

You'll fall in love with these major stops:

• Toronto & Niagara Falls (Ontario/Quebec entry): A hub of multicultural flair and the iconic CN Tower—plus a detour to Niagara Falls if you're chasing natural wonders. Great for starting your trip with an urban twist and a rush of adrenaline.

• Montreal & Quebec City (Quebec): Two sides of francophone culture—Montreal’s edgy vibes vs. Quebec City’s old‑town atmosphere. Both are food, history, and architecture hotspots.

• Halifax (Nova Scotia): A harbour town with pubs, rugged coastal views, Peggy’s Cove lighthouse and historical Citadel Hill—perfect kick‑off for exploring the Maritimes.

• St. Andrews, Moncton & Saint John (New Brunswick): Small‑town charm with kitschy shops, bay tides, seafood, and craft beer culture. Fundy National Park and Hopewell Rocks are just outside Saint John.

• Charlottetown, PEI: A gateway to the red cliffs and legendary Anne of Green Gables vibe. Quaint, peaceful, and great for families.

• Cape Breton Island & Newfoundland: Breathtaking roads like the Cabot Trail and UNESCO sites (e.g. Gros Morne, L’Anse aux Meadows) make it a must-see if time allows.

Seasonal Charms of Eastern Canada

Eastern Canada is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own unique charm.

Summer (June to August): With warm weather and long, sunny days, summer is the most popular time to visit. It's the perfect season for outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and exploring the beautiful national parks. The cities come alive with festivals and outdoor events. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so be sure to book your accommodations and activities in advance.

Fall (September to October): If you're a fan of stunning natural beauty, fall is the time to visit. The autumn foliage in Eastern Canada is simply breathtaking, with vibrant hues of red, orange, and gold painting the landscape. The weather is cool and crisp, perfect for hiking and scenic drives. Plus, the summer crowds have thinned out, making it a more peaceful time to explore.

Winter (November to March): While the winters can be cold, Eastern Canada offers a magical winter experience. From skiing and snowboarding in Quebec to skating on the Rideau Canal in Ottawa, there are plenty of winter activities to enjoy. Quebec City's Winter Carnival is a must-see event, with its ice sculptures, night parades, and festive atmosphere.

Spring (April to May): Spring is a time of renewal in Eastern Canada. The snow melts, the flowers bloom, and the wildlife emerges from hibernation. It's a great time for wildlife viewing and enjoying the fresh spring air. While the weather can be unpredictable, you'll be rewarded with fewer crowds and lower prices.

How to Get Around Canada East

Different traveler? Different ride:

• Rental car – Most popular. Offers flexibility to chase vistas like the Cabot Trail or Bay of Fundy. Honor flights are limited.

• RV/camper van – Great for families or those wanting to slow down. Maritimes have RV‑friendly campgrounds, but Quebec city centers may feel tight.

• Train & ferry – VIA Rail services Toronto–Montreal–Quebec; Maritimes lack rail. Ferry options: Digby → Saint John (NB), PEI bridge/ferry, Nova Scotia ↔ Newfoundland.

• Public transit / flights – City buses/taxis for Montreal/Toronto. Short regional flights connect PEI, NS, Newfoundland in shoulder seasons.

Eastern Canada Itineraries: 5/7/10/14 Days

Here are flexible outlines depending on your timeframe:

• 5‑day (Core East): With 5 days, you can focus on one or two key destinations. A popular option is to explore the highlights of Ontario, with a couple of days in Toronto and a day trip to Niagara Falls. Alternatively, you could immerse yourself in the French-Canadian culture of Quebec, spending a few days in Montreal and Quebec City.

• 7‑day (Maritimes sampler): A week gives you more time to explore a region in depth. You could embark on a 7-day road trip through the Maritimes, visiting Halifax, Peggy's Cove, and Prince Edward Island. Or, you could combine the highlights of Ontario and Quebec, with a few days in Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal.

• 10‑day (East Canada road trip): With 10 days, you can cover more ground and experience the diversity of Eastern Canada. A popular 10-day itinerary includes a road trip through Quebec, visiting Montreal, Quebec City, and the scenic Gaspe Peninsula. Alternatively, you could explore the best of the Maritimes, with time in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island.

• 14‑day (Full Maritimes): Two weeks allows for an epic Eastern Canada adventure. You could embark on a grand tour of Ontario and Quebec, visiting Toronto, Niagara Falls, Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec City. Or, you could do a comprehensive road trip through the Maritimes, exploring all three provinces and their stunning coastlines. For the ultimate adventure, consider a 14-day guided tour that covers all the highlights of Eastern Canada.

Things to Do for a Family Trip

Eastern Canada is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, with a wide range of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. Here are some family-friendly ideas:

Whale Watching: The waters off the coast of Eastern Canada are teeming with marine life. Take a whale watching tour from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, or Quebec for a chance to see these magnificent creatures up close.

Anne of Green Gables: If you have an Anne of Green Gables fan in the family, a visit to Prince Edward Island is a must. Explore Green Gables Heritage Place, see the musical "Anne of Green Gables," and immerse yourselves in the world of L.M. Montgomery's beloved books.

Museums and Science Centres: Eastern Canada has a wealth of excellent museums and science centres that are perfect for a rainy day. The Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau (across the river from Ottawa) and the Ontario Science Centre in Toronto are both great choices for families.

Outdoor Adventures: From hiking and biking in the national parks to kayaking and canoeing on the numerous lakes and rivers, there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventures in Eastern Canada. Many parks offer family-friendly trails and activities.

Insider Advice & Pro Tips

• Book flights, rental cars, and accommodations at least 6 months ahead—especially for summer travel.

• Bring mosquito repellent (DEET‑based) for bay-front areas at dawn/dusk.

• Stay flexible on ferry reservations—weather and schedule changes can happen. PEI bridge is a reliable backup.

• Travel insurance is key—shorelines and multi‑province trips have unpredictable elements.

• If gas is expensive, stop at reserve stations—cheaper fuel is common.

• Learn a few French phrases—Quebec locals appreciate the effort, especially when ordering food or asking directions.