Traveling Across Canada: Your Guide with iBestTravel

Towering snow-capped mountains, evergreen forests filled with wildlife, and deep-blue waters coalesce to form the breathtaking landscapes of Canada. This destination is more than just a fantasy novel backdrop; it’s a treasure trove of natural beauty waiting to be explored.

Traveling across Canada’s vast expanse, which encompasses six time zones, 10 provinces, and three territories, may appear daunting. However, thanks to affordable budget airlines, a national train service, and a plethora of car rental options, Canada is incredibly accessible for adventurous travelers.

Modes of Transportation in Canada

Owing to its vast size and diverse regions, different parts of Canada utilize various modes of transportation. Here’s an overview:

• Trains primarily operate in densely populated areas, such as the Toronto-Montréal corridor.
• Public ferries are widespread in British Columbia, Quebec, and the Maritime provinces.
• Regional and national airlines offer connections for covering long distances efficiently, especially to northern regions that are hard to access by road.
• All major cities provide public transportation and are committed to expanding their networks, including subways, streetcars, buses, and bike routes.

Driving: The Best Way to Experience Canada’s Scenery

Canada possesses remarkable road-trip opportunities, making driving one of the most enjoyable and pragmatic ways to explore the country. Train and plane tickets can quickly accumulate costs, particularly for reaching remote areas where other transport means may fall short.

Notably, apart from the northern territories, Canada is interconnected by the Trans-Canada Highway, facilitating travel from locations like Vancouver in British Columbia to St. John’s in Newfoundland—a journey that takes approximately 76 hours under ideal conditions.

Tips for Road Tripping Across Canada

• Consider a combination of car rentals and inter-provincial flights if you’re short on time.
• Explore national parks and hidden gems along your route, which is an advantage of having a car.

Renting a Car in Canada

Visitors can drive legally for up to three months with their home-country driver’s license in most provinces, while that duration extends to six months in British Columbia. An International Driving Permit (IDP) can be beneficial for longer stays.

To rent a car, you typically need to be at least 25 years old, possess a valid driver’s license (with an IDP if necessary), and have a major credit card. Major rental companies typically operate at airports and city centers; however, on-the-spot rentals might be pricier compared to pre-booked vehicles.

Enjoying Canada’s Scenic Train Journeys

For rail enthusiasts, traveling by train should undoubtedly be on your bucket list. Canadian train routes traverse some of the most beautiful landscapes, enriching your travel experience significantly.

VIA Rail operates the majority of Canada’s intercity and transcontinental passenger trains, covering over 14,000 km of track. Particularly popular is the corridor that connects Quebec City and Windsor, focusing on the two central hubs: Montréal and Toronto.

Advantages of Train Travel

• Train travel is often more enjoyable and comfortable compared to bus travel, even if it may be pricier.
• Purchasing tickets in advance can yield notable savings, especially during peak seasons from June to mid-October.

Cost-Effective Bus Travel Options

Many major cities in Canada are accessible by bus, with Megabus servicing routes in Ontario and Quebec, while regional bus companies handle other intercity travel. Buses are generally clean and comfortable, though travel time might be longer compared to flying or taking a train.

Considering budget constraints, bus travel remains an affordable alternative. However, early online ticket purchases are recommended to secure the best rates.

Flying Across Canada

The introduction of budget airlines such as Swoop, Flair, and Lynx has transformed the flying landscape in Canada. With reasonably priced tickets, it’s more feasible than ever to fly between cities without incurring exorbitant costs. Yet travelers should remain cautious regarding additional fees that might apply.

Explore Canada by Bike

Biking is a fantastic way to experience the charm of Canada. Many cities, including Edmonton, Toronto, and Vancouver, boast designated bike routes. Meanwhile, rural areas often feature peaceful back roads ideal for longer cycling trips.

Bike Buying and Selling Tips

• Purchasing a bike in Canada is straightforward, and you can easily resell it before departing.
• Check specialist bike shops for a better selection and consider alternative platforms like flea markets for deals.

Ferry Services for Coastal Travel

Ferries provide enjoyable travel options to regions such as Victoria on the West Coast. In cities like Toronto, ferry access to the Toronto Islands offers stunning sunset views, enhancing your trip.

Given the extensive coastline, ferry services are plentiful, especially in the Atlantic provinces and British Columbia. Travelers should always check for reservations during peak travel seasons to ensure smooth travel.

Accessible Travel in Canada

Canada is making strides to better accommodate travelers with disabilities. Public buildings are increasingly equipped with accessibility features, including ramps and wider restrooms. New hotels often have specialized rooms for guests with mobility challenges. Rental agencies also offer specialized vehicles with hand controls and wheelchair lifts.

For the best information on accessible transportation options, it is advisable to check the federal government’s resources.