Canada is a country known for its incredible vistas, small cities full of charm, and big cities boasting an array of things to do and sights to see. If you’re looking to plan a short trip to a city on the East Coast, the options are endless. From calm and charming spots to destinations with so endless festivals and events, there’s something for everyone in this part of the country.
Check out this list of seven East Coast cities in Canada that you need to visit.
1. Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia
Peggy’s Cove has been a major tourist attraction on the east coast for decades, and is usually a must visit for anyone who takes a trip out to the eastern part of Canada. The small rural city is known mostly for its fishing and if you’re a seafood lover, you might never want to leave this place. A visit here will give you a good idea into what it looks like to live in a town where fishing is the main source of income, but don’t get it confused, the city is still beautiful as ever and the lighthouse at sunset will be an image etched in your mind forever.
2. Halifax, Nova Scotia
The friendly city of Halifax in Nova Scotia is known for its culture, scenery, and coastline. You can visit several museums and art galleries in the downtown hub of the city, including the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, and Studio 21. Peggys Cove is a popular tourist destination in the area and Citadel Hill is a National Historic Site. Take a beautiful walk down the 3-kilometre boardwalk known as the Halifax Harbourwalk. Be sure to check out the small shops and vendors along with an array of world cuisines at restaurants throughout the city.
3. Charlottetown, P.E.I.
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, there’s no better place than Charlottetown, located in Prince Edward Island. Attend a food festival, take in a musical, go on a tour around the island, check out the racetrack and casino, or dig in at one of the delicious restaurants in the area. Local favourites include Hunter’s Ale House, BOOMburger, or Piatto Pizzeria. Charlottetown played a large part in Canada’s history as well. The Province House National Historic Site is a must-see.
4. Fundy Isles, New Brunswick
Go island hopping in New Brunswick in the Fundy Isles. The world’s highest tides are found at the Bay of Fundy. Campobello Island boasts whale watching and is home to the Roosevelt International Park. Grand Manan Island has rugged cliffs and shoreline to discover. And Deer Island is full of beaches, along with the opportunity to go kayaking, camping, hiking, cycling, boat tours, and diving.
5. St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
St. John’s in Newfoundland and Labrador is a historic city offering small-town charm. The colourful and eclectic homes found along the city’s hills and alleyways are known as “The Jellybean Houses”. For the best view of the harbour and skyline, check out Signal Hill. Don’t forget to bring your camera, at night you’re likely to stumble upon amazing live music or a local theatre reenacting one of your favourite plays. And don’t miss out on the city’s culinary scene, hotspots include Mallard Cottage and St John’s Fish Exchange Kitchen and Wet Bar.
6. Gaspé, Quebéc
The Quebéc city of Gaspé is located at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula. The area is rich in history and offers a wealth of things for tourists to explore. Aside from historical sites, there are four national parks, the famous Percé Rock, a gannet colony, high summits, plenty of moose, lighthouses, and Chaleur Bay. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the incredible city of Gaspé.
7. Cavendish, P.E.I.
We’ve all heard of Anne of Green Gables, well this is her hometown. To anyone who has read the book, you will be familiar with the beautiful Victorian home which is now a protected heritage place of Canada. The house also serves as one of the many museums in Cavendish. The city of Cavendish is more than just this beautiful home though, the city is also known for its beaches that will make you consider moving to the small town.
