Great in every sense of the world, Canada – the world’s second largest country – boasts no less than 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From archaeological treasures to colonial history, awe-inspiring natural wonders to the world’s largest non-polar icefield, we’ve sampled five sites that should feature on every travel wish-list.
Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks
No less than seven national and provincial parks across the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia rub shoulders in this mighty collection of snow-clad peaks, glaciers and icefields. Irresistible for first-time visitors, the Canadian Rockies are easily slipped into a self-drive or escorted holiday. Don’t miss canoeing on Lake Louise or riding the Banff Gondola.
We recommend: Rocky Mountains in Depth
Old Town Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Gracing Canada’s Atlantic coast, this picturesque fishing village of colourful wooden houses represents the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America. The buildings date back to the 18th century and the architecture retains the functional purpose for which they were originally built around the fishing industry.
We recommend: Atlantic Self Drive Discovery
L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site, Newfoundland & Labrador
One of the world’s first UNESCO Heritage Sites, this archaeological site was designated as part of the original selection in 1978. It is home to the remains of an excavated 11th-century Viking settlement, providing evidence of the first European presence in North America.
We recommend: Newfoundland Discovery
Historic District of Old Quebec
Founded by French explorer Champlain in the early 17th century, Quebec is one of the world’s best examples of a fortified colonial city. Stroll the Terrasse Dufferin, delve into the Lower Town to relax in cafes, then plan a gentle assault on the old city walls and historic battlefield of the Plains of Abraham.
We recommend: Wildlife and Wilderness of Quebec
Kluane / Wrangell-St Elias / Glacier Bay / Tatshenshini-Alsek
Straddling the border between Canada (Yukon Territory and British Columbia) and the United States (Alaska), these parks comprise an impressive collection of glaciers, high peaks – including Mt Logan, the highest in Canada – and the world’s largest non-polar icefield. Grizzly bears, wolves and caribou call this spectacular landscape home.
We recommend: Alaska and Yukon Highlights
Discover more UNESCO World Heritage Sites around our destinations in the following guides, or view the full World Heritage List.
Feeling inspired?
If you’d like to visit any of the sites shown above, contact our team of travel specialists. With first-hand experience of Canada, they can advise the best way to weave a UNESCO site or two into your holiday itinerary.
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