You're ready for a week in Canada, and let’s be real, it’s about time you experienced maple syrup beyond your pancakes. This itinerary packs in a perfect mix of stunning nature, vibrant cities, and a sprinkle of local cuisine that will make you question why you haven't moved here yet. Buckle up, because you’re in for a ride that’s equal parts adventure and relaxation.
Day 1: Arrival in Vancouver
Morning: Fly into Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and grab your bags. The first step in your Canadian adventure is a scenic 30-minute SkyTrain ride to downtown Vancouver. Check into your hotel and drop off your luggage. Pro tip: don’t forget to take the obligatory selfie with the mountain backdrop.
Afternoon: Head to Stanley Park. Rent a bike and cruise the Seawall, soaking in views of the ocean and mountains. Stop by the Vancouver Aquarium if you're feeling like visiting some finned friends. Grab lunch at one of the food trucks nearby; there’s nothing like a good taco while staring at the water.
Evening: Stroll through Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighborhood. Check out the iconic steam clock and grab dinner at a gastropub like The Flying Pig, where the poutine will have you saying "why did I ever eat regular fries?"
Day 2: Whistler day trip
Morning: Grab breakfast at your hotel or a local café, then hit the road to Whistler (about 1.5 hours). Enjoy the scenic drive and try not to be too jealous of all the outdoor enthusiasts along the way.
Afternoon: Explore Whistler Village, grab lunch at a patio, and then take the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for stunning views. Yes, it’s as breathtaking as it sounds. Get your camera ready to capture the moment when you’re 1,430 feet above ground.
Evening: Return to Vancouver. If you’re not too tired, check out Granville Island for dinner and maybe pick up a few artisan crafts. You might even find some local wine or cheese to bring home. Because, you know, you need to impress people with your Canadian culinary finds.
Day 3: Victoria on Vancouver Island
Morning: Rise and shine! Take an early ferry from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay (about 1.5 hours). Enjoy coffee on the ferry and watch for whales – or at least keep an eye out for other tourists getting overly excited about sea life.
Afternoon: Once on Vancouver Island, head to Butchart Gardens. Walk through the stunning floral displays and find a quiet bench to ponder life choices. Grab lunch at the café in the gardens, and don’t skip the dessert.
Evening: Explore downtown Victoria. Check out the Royal BC Museum if you’re feeling a bit cultured. Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant like The Fish Store, where you can almost feel the ocean breeze while devouring fresh seafood.
Day 4: Calgary and Banff National Park
Morning: Catch a morning flight to Calgary (about 1.5 hours) and rent a car. Drive to Banff National Park (about 1.5 hours). The scenery along the way will have you humming a tune. You might even want to pull over for a photo or two.
Afternoon: Arrive in Banff and grab a quick lunch in town. Explore the Banff townsite and visit the Banff Upper Hot Springs for a warm soak in the mineral-rich water. Because what’s better than relaxing in hot water while surrounded by mountains?
Evening: A dinner at The Maple Leaf in Banff will give you a taste of Alberta cuisine. Try the bison steak; it’s a local favorite, and you can brag about it later.
Day 5: Exploring Banff National Park
Morning: Start early and hit up Lake Louise (30 minutes from Banff). Hike around the lake or take a canoe out if you’re feeling adventurous. Don’t forget that Instagram shot—you know the one.
Afternoon: After lunch, visit Moraine Lake for some of the most stunning views. If you’re lucky, the weather will cooperate, and you won’t feel like you’re in a postcard.
Evening: Return to Banff for dinner at a cozy restaurant like Park Distillery, where you can sample locally crafted spirits. And don’t worry, you can walk it off with a stroll around town afterward.
Day 6: Road trip to Jasper National Park
Morning: After breakfast, embark on the Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic drives in the world (3 hours to Jasper). Keep your camera ready because you will want to stop at every turn.
Afternoon: Arrive in Jasper and grab lunch. Take a ride on the Jasper SkyTram for stunning views and maybe a hike if you’re feeling ambitious. Just remember, it’s not as easy as it looks.
Evening: Dinner at the Jasper Brewing Company will give you a taste of local craft beer and hearty fare. You’ll need the energy for tomorrow’s adventures.
Day 7: Exploring Jasper National Park
Morning: Start your day with a hike at Maligne Canyon. Be prepared to see some spectacular waterfalls and possibly a moose. Yes, a moose. You’ll want photographic evidence.
Afternoon: Visit Maligne Lake and take a boat tour to Spirit Island. This is the iconic shot you’ve seen on countless postcards. Enjoy lunch on the boat or pack a picnic to enjoy lakeside.
Evening: Drive back to Edmonton (about 3.5 hours) for your flight home. Reflect on the week and all the incredible experiences you’ve had. You might even shed a tear or two as you leave this beautiful country.
This week in Canada will leave you with stories to tell and maybe a few new favorite foods. You might even find yourself planning your next trip before you even leave. Who knew Canada could be this captivating?
