Check out the Victorian architecture in Gastown, take a kayak out on English Bay or explore Stanley Park. The elevated Sky Train is a great way to view the city. Foodies should make a beeline for the Granville Island Public Market. And don't leave town without trying dim sum in Vancouver's Chinatown.

Since Cartier landed here in 1535, Montreal has evolved from a tiny village to a major metropolis. Old Montreal's Parisian-style streets are a wonderful place to wander—stop at an intimate bistro or sidewalk café for a taste of Europe. But in addition to all the old-fashioned elegance, you'll also find a vibrant dining and club scene that reflects contemporary Montreal's culturally diverse population.

We've heard Toronto described as "New York City run by the Swiss," and it's true—you can find world-class theater, shopping and restaurants here, but the sidewalks are clean and the people are friendly. The best place to start is literally at the top—the CN Tower, the tallest freestanding structure in the Western Hemisphere.

Quebec City may be the only fortified city north of Mexico, but it welcomes visitors with open arms. Explore the Citadel, where you might catch Canadian troops staging a military ceremony. As for food, you could splurge on afternoon tea at the Chateau Frontenac, or do as the locals do and snack on poutine—french fries with gravy and cheese curds.

It's still one of the most British cities in North America, but there's more to Victoria than tearooms, antique shops and galleries (though there are plenty of those). Driven by the younger generation, the city has sprouted a collection of cool shops, authentic coffee bars and unique restaurants. It also has more cycling routes than any other Canadian city, providing a great way to explore the picturesque location (and avoid an afternoon of antique shopping).

If you watched the 2010 Winter Olympics (and happened to catch a sport other than curling), then you likely got a peek at Whistler's magnificence. Historically known as a winter vacation spot, this alpine village has seen outdoor enthusiasts flocking to enjoy the summer months in recent years. Whistler is named after the furry marmots (funny-looking squirrels) who fill the surrounding mountains with their distinct whistle sound. Nothing like waking up to a squirrel whistle from your slope-side chalet!

The sophisticated city that grew out of the Canadian West, Calgary balances the modern and the traditional with pioneer charm. For the full western experience, show up in time for the annual Calgary Stampede, complete with rodeos. Year-round you'll find abundant shopping, dining and nightlife; a short drive away are some of Canada's finest national parks.

Ottawa is a compact, clean, cleverly planned center of culture and politics. And it's an ideal choice for a weekend getaway. Start downtown at the architecturally stunning National Gallery of Canada, and don't miss the Canadian Nature Museum and the National Aviation Museum. Rideau Canal offers boating in the summer and ice-skating in the winter. Gatineau Park attracts cyclists and walkers, while Byward Market blends old and new Ottawa.

Flanked on all sides by the Rockies, Banff offers an irresistible combination of perfect powder, luxury lodges, fine dining and lively nightlife. A thriving arts scene and proximity to Lake Louise and Kananaskis County add to its allure. Don’t miss the hoodoos, intriguing rock spires, in Banff National Park.

We won't lie: Niagara Falls is uber-touristy. There are wax museums and a Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum, and if it's a fast-food chain, you can probably find it here. But even the most jaded hipster shouldn't pass up a chance to visit this town, because the Falls themselves are spectacular.