Canada has a reputation for horrible winters.
But all that fresh snow and cool December air make for a cozy vacation escape that helps foster a mindset of embracing the magic of winter rather than dreading the colder months.
Plus, now that the borders have been reopened and vaccinated Canadian and American travelers can move freely across land and air borders, it's the perfect time to reconnect with our neighbors to the north and plan a magical getaway for the holiday season.
Whether you want to spend your vacation on the slopes in the Canadian Rockies or prefer to sip mulled wine while browsing the Christmas markets in Old Montreal, these are some of the most festive places in Canada to spend the holidays.
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Whistler, British Columbia
We're pretty sure Whistler had to be the inspiration behind "Walking in a Winter Wonderland."
The world famous ski destination offers perfect snow, local food, and plenty of alternative outdoor activities for those who prefer to keep their feet firmly planted on the ground.
Where to stay in Whistler
Between the heated outdoor pool, three hot tubs, and views of the surrounding mountains and woods, the Four Seasons Whistler will be among your best bets for a luxury Whistler vacation getaway.
It's just an eight-minute walk from the base of the Whistler Blackcomb ski lifts.
Lake Louise, Alberta
Lake Louise is a picture-perfect outdoor destination any time of year, but it's particularly magical when Christmas rolls around.
The cozy mountain town offers the perfect setting to kick back and relax with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or to strap on your skates and spin around the 200-foot-deep frozen turquoise lake in the middle of the mountains.
Where to stay in Lake Louise
If you're hoping to find the right mix of rustic and luxurious, look no further than the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
This wish-list property is one of Canada's oldest luxury hotels and boasts stunning views of the turquoise lake and surrounding mountain ranges.
Churchill, Manitoba
Looking for a more adventure-focused holiday expedition?
Head to Churchill, Manitoba.
This small town on the prairie boasts more wild polar bears per capita than any other city in North America.
Don't worry about trying to spot a polar bear or other Arctic creatures yourself, though - expert-led tours and expeditions are plentiful and easy to book.
Where to stay in Chuchill
The Polar Inn & Suites is a no-frills place to spend the night.
Each room includes a kitchen and cozy dining room to refresh and recharge after a day of hunting for polar bears, and perhaps even the Northern Lights.
Toronto, Ontario
Ontario's largest city is a fun weekend destination year-round, but it's particularly magical in December.
Head to the Distillery District to catch a glimpse of the twinkling lights and crafts that make up the Toronto Christmas Market or head to Nathan Phillips Square to skate around the lavishly decorated Toronto City Hall.
Where to stay in Toronto
The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto takes the holiday season seriously: From "The Nutcracker" afternoon tea and Christmas dinner services to royal visits from Santa, this luxurious property goes the extra mile when it comes to conjure Christmas magic.
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
Maybe you've visited Niagara-on-the-Lake during its peak summer season, but don't overlook winter in the popular vacation town just yet.
Here, you'll find less crowded skating spots, an annual mulled wine festival, and a quick trip to the festive lights and sounds of Niagara Falls.
Where to stay in Niagara-on-the-Lake
Looking for something at the intersection of cozy and luxurious?
The Prince of Wales hotel will do just fine.
This royal-inspired property feels more like a sumptuous speakeasy than a small-town hotel thanks to its deep mahogany living rooms, alfresco dining, and opulent suites and rooms that seem to be borrowed directly from Versailles.
Mont Tremblant, Quebec
Looking for world-class skiing on the eastern side of Canada?
You will want to head to Mont Tremblant.
This popular ski destination has won the hearts of visitors and locals alike, and for good reason.
Mont Tremblant is arguably the best ski range in eastern Alberta, but it also offers a more than charming town at the base of the mountain that will feel like you've been transported to the North Pole proper.
Where to stay in Mont Tremblant
There are dozens of charming addresses in the village of Mont Tremblant, but the Sommet des Neiges will be your best option if you are looking for luxurious ski-oriented tread terrain.
The high-end property actually includes ski in / out facilities so you don't have to haul your skis just to get to the piste.
Quebec City, Quebec
Quebec City is going to be one of the coldest destinations on this list - it is a city famous for its ice hotel, after all.
But it's worth braving the cold just for the centuries-old architecture and opulent Christmas decorations.
Old Quebec City is packed with options to keep warm, from enjoying a steaming pot of cheese fondue to sipping mulled wine in one of the city's many cozy bars and pubs.
Where to stay in Quebec City
There is really only one address that matters in Quebec City, and that is the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac.
You have probably already seen this impressive property as it is the most photographed hotel in the world.
But the interior is just as impressive as the castle-style property.
You'll find cheeky luxury and hospitality here, from the plethora of locally focused bars and restaurants (including a hearty Christmas dinner service) to spa services and extracurricular activities like wine tasting with local cheese pairings straight from the winery. cheese of the property.
Montreal, Quebec
Montreal will be your best bet for world-class dining and entertainment juxtaposed with centuries-old architecture and history.
Grab a cup of mulled wine and head through Montréal's Village de Noël to Atwater Market or head straight to Les Grands Ballets Canadiens' rendition of "The Nutcracker."
Where to stay in Montreal
You have endless options when it comes to lodging in Montreal, but there are some standout properties depending on the neighborhood you'd like to call home.
Check into the Ritz-Carlton, Montreal for timeless downtown luxury or drop off your bags at the slightly more realistic Hotel Nelligan if you're hoping to spend your vacation exploring the cobblestone streets of the Old Port.
Halifax, Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia is best known for its abundance of warm-hearted citizens and a tight-knit community, and that's only amplified in December.
Strike me up for a conversation in one of the many pubs and bars around the city center and chances are you'll walk away with an invitation to a Christmas dinner or Christmas party.
Otherwise, warm up with a steaming bowl of lobster bisque and a drink at Bishop's Landing or head to the Glow Halifax Christmas Light Festival, an interactive Christmas light show and market that draws visitors and locals alike.
Where to stay in Halifax
Halifax may be picturesque, but it is packed with great historic and contemporary properties.
The Westin Nova Scotian will be your best bet if you expect to be right in the middle of the restaurants and shops at Bishop's Landing.
Head up Spring Garden Road to The Lord Nelson Hotel & Suites if you prefer to be next to the Halifax Public Gardens.
St. John's, Newfoundland
Planning a winter vacation to St. John's is always a good idea.
Not only will you find a host of Christmas dinner services, Christmas craft markets, and Celtic Christmas productions, it's actually about a four-hour drive from the port of Saint-Pierre and Miquelon.
It's a quiet French territory off the coast of Canada, where you'll find everything from buttery croissants and pain aux chocolat to French architecture and shopping.
Make sure you pack a few euros.
Where to stay in St. John's
Built on the site of the old Fort William at the base of Signal Hill, the Sheraton Hotel Newfoundland is not only steeped in history, it is also incredibly well located.
It is within walking distance of all of St. John's best cultural offerings, as well as a stone's throw from revered George Street.
How to travel between the US and Canada right now
Fully vaccinated travelers may enter Canada, but must provide proof of a negative Covid-19 molecular test taken in the last 72 hours or provide proof of a positive test result taken in the last 14 to 180 days.
You will be asked to fill in the details about your vaccination status and proof of a negative test in the official ArriveCAN app, which can be downloaded to any smartphone.
Visitors flying to Canada will also need to provide details of a quarantine plan in case you do not qualify as a vaccinated traveler or if you become ill while visiting Canada.
Note that if you are not vaccinated or partially vaccinated, you will not be allowed to enter Canada by air or at the land border, even if you test negative for Covid-19.
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