20 Cities in Canada that Feel Like Europe
Ever dreamt of wandering the cobblestone streets of Paris, basking in the coastal beauty of the Mediterranean, or sipping wine in a quaint Bavarian village? Well, pack your bags (but don’t forget your toque!) because Canada boasts an incredible array of destinations that capture the essence of Europe without needing a passport! Let’s embark on a cross-country journey to explore 20 charming places in Canada that will make you feel like you’ve stepped right into the heart of Europe.
1. Quebec City, Quebec – France
Nestled along the St. Lawrence River, Quebec City is like a slice of Old Europe in North America. The historic district of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its narrow streets, charming cafes, and the majestic Château Frontenac, resembles a picturesque French town. Don’t forget to stroll through the Quartier Petit Champlain, which will transport you straight to a Parisian quartier.
Must-See: The iconic Château Frontenac
European Equivalent: Paris, France
2. Victoria, British Columbia – England
Victoria is known for its English heritage, and you’ll feel like you’re in the heart of England as you wander through its gardens, historic architecture, and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel. The British-influenced culture, complete with double-decker buses, will make you think you’ve crossed the pond.
Must-See: The Butchart Gardens
European Equivalent: London, England
3. Mont-Tremblant, Quebec – Switzerland
With its stunning mountain scenery and charming village, Mont-Tremblant is Canada’s answer to a Swiss alpine resort. Whether you’re skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the beauty of the Laurentian Mountains will remind you of the Swiss Alps.
Must-See: The Mont-Tremblant Pedestrian Village
European Equivalent: Zermatt, Switzerland
4. Whistler, British Columbia – Austria
Whistler’s charming village, surrounded by majestic mountains, offers a taste of the Austrian Alps. From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking and mountain biking in the summer, Whistler is an adventurer’s paradise reminiscent of Austria’s alpine resorts.
Must-See: The Peak 2 Peak Gondola
European Equivalent: Innsbruck, Austria
5. Old Montreal, Quebec – France
Wandering through Old Montreal, with its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and European flair, is like stepping into a quaint French town. The basilicas, boutiques, and bistros exude the romantic charm of Paris.
Must-See: The Notre-Dame Basilica
European Equivalent: Paris, France
6. Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario – England
This charming town is known for its British colonial architecture and lovely gardens, giving it a distinctively English feel. The Niagara wineries and the famous Shaw Festival add to its old-world charm, making it a perfect getaway for those seeking a touch of England.
Must-See: Queen Street and its boutiques
European Equivalent: Stratford-upon-Avon, England
7. Banff, Alberta – Switzerland
Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff’s stunning mountain landscapes and charming village give off serious Swiss vibes. From the scenic Banff Avenue to the majestic Lake Louise, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the Swiss countryside.
Must-See: Lake Louise and Banff Avenue
European Equivalent: Interlaken, Switzerland
8. Halifax, Nova Scotia – Scotland
With its historic stone buildings, coastal landscapes, and a rich maritime heritage, Halifax feels like a Scottish port town. Explore the city’s seafaring history at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, and you’ll find echoes of Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Must-See: The Halifax Citadel
European Equivalent: Edinburgh, Scotland
9. St. John’s, Newfoundland – Ireland
The colourful row houses, dramatic cliffs, and friendly locals of St. John’s will remind you of a quaint Irish village. The city’s music scene and rugged coastal beauty evoke the charm of Ireland’s Atlantic coast.
Must-See: Signal Hill and George Street
European Equivalent: Dublin, Ireland
10. Stratford, Ontario – England
Home to the famous Stratford Festival, this town is an ode to Shakespeare and English culture. The picturesque streets, Victorian architecture, and the Avon River will make you feel like you’re in the heart of England.
Must-See: The Stratford Festival Theatre
European Equivalent: Stratford-upon-Avon, England
11. Victoria-by-the-Sea, Prince Edward Island – Wales
This quaint village, with its charming cottages and stunning coastline, resembles a picturesque Welsh seaside town. The serene beaches and rolling hills of PEI offer a peaceful escape reminiscent of the Welsh countryside.
Must-See: The Victoria Playhouse
European Equivalent: Tenby, Wales
12. Quebec’s Eastern Townships – France
The Eastern Townships, with their scenic vineyards, charming villages, and rolling hills, feel like the French countryside. Sip local wines and explore quaint towns like Magog and Sutton, and you’ll be transported to rural France.
Must-See: The town of Magog
European Equivalent: Bordeaux, France
13. Lunenburg, Nova Scotia – Germany
This UNESCO World Heritage site with its colourful wooden houses and maritime history feels like a quaint German port town. The vibrant architecture and seafaring heritage make Lunenburg a must-visit for a taste of Germany in Canada.
Must-See: The Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic
European Equivalent: Lübeck, Germany
14. Percé, Quebec – France
Percé, with its dramatic cliffs and picturesque village, feels like a coastal town in Brittany, France. The famous Percé Rock and charming streets offer a French coastal experience without leaving Canada.
Must-See: Percé Rock
European Equivalent: Brittany, France
15. Goderich, Ontario – Italy
Known as the prettiest town in Canada, Goderich’s picturesque town square and beautiful sunsets over Lake Huron evoke the charm of an Italian coastal village. Explore the historic architecture and enjoy the local culinary scene for a touch of Italy.
Must-See: The Courthouse Square
European Equivalent: Cinque Terre, Italy
16. Kelowna, British Columbia – Italy
The rolling vineyards, warm climate, and stunning lake views of Kelowna resemble the Italian wine country. Enjoy wine tastings and scenic hikes, and you’ll feel like you’re in the heart of Tuscany.
Must-See: The vineyards of the Okanagan Valley
European Equivalent: Tuscany, Italy
17. Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec – France
This charming town with its artists’ studios, galleries, and French-inspired architecture offers a taste of Provence in Canada. The scenic beauty and vibrant arts scene make Baie-Saint-Paul a delightful destination.
Must-See: The art galleries on Rue Saint-Jean-Baptiste
European Equivalent: Provence, France
18. Blue Rocks, Nova Scotia – Greece
The picturesque fishing village of Blue Rocks, with its colourful houses and serene coastal views, feels like a slice of the Greek Islands. The tranquil beauty and charming scenery will transport you to the Mediterranean.
Must-See: The scenic views and fishing boats
European Equivalent: Santorini, Greece
19. Merrickville, Ontario – France
This charming village along the Rideau Canal, with its historic stone buildings and quaint boutiques, resembles a French riverside town. Wander through the streets and enjoy the local artisan shops for a taste of France.
Must-See: The Rideau Canal and local shops
European Equivalent: Alsace, France
20. Saint-Sauveur, Quebec – France
This charming village with its European-style architecture and bustling village centre feels like a French mountain town. The scenic beauty and lively atmosphere make Saint-Sauveur a perfect escape for those seeking a touch of Europe.
Must-See: The main street and local shops
European Equivalent: Chamonix, France
This charming town with its artists’ studios, galleries, and French-inspired architecture offers a taste of Provence in Canada. The scenic beauty and vibrant arts scene make Baie-Saint-Paul a delightful destination.
Ready to Explore?
From the alpine peaks of British Columbia to the charming streets of Quebec, Canada offers a delightful array of destinations that capture the essence of Europe. These 20 places provide a European escape without leaving Canada. So grab your camera, and your sense of adventure, and start exploring these European-inspired gems in Canada!
