From border paperwork to tipping etiquette, here's everything first-time visitors need to know before exploring Canada.
Canada is vast — six time zones, ten provinces, three territories, and landscapes that range from temperate rainforest to Arctic tundra. Before you book your first trip, a little preparation goes a long way.
Entry requirements: Most visitors need an eTA or visa. Apply online well ahead of travel; the eTA is linked to your passport and valid for five years.
Getting around: Distances are large. Domestic flights save time between regions, while the train (VIA Rail) and rental cars are ideal for scenic corridors like the Rockies and the Maritimes.
Currency and tipping: Canada uses the Canadian dollar. Tipping 15–20% is standard at restaurants, taxis, and for tour guides.
Weather: Conditions vary dramatically by region and season. Pack layers even in summer, especially in mountain and coastal areas where evenings are cool.
Connectivity: Cell coverage is excellent in cities but sparse in remote parks. Download offline maps before heading into the backcountry.
With these basics covered, you're ready to explore — from the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec to the peaks of Banff.
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Turquoise lakes, soaring peaks, and the Rockies' most iconic sights await in Banff, Alberta — our most-read destination guide.
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