Canada is vast — the second-largest country in the world. Getting around requires planning. The good news is that most major destinations are well connected; the bad news is that the distances between them are genuinely enormous.
By Air
Flying is the practical choice for anything over a few hundred kilometres. Air Canada and WestJet cover all major cities. Regional carriers like Porter (serving the eastern provinces and Ontario), PAL Airlines (Atlantic Canada), and Central Mountain Air (BC interior) fill in the gaps. Domestic fares can be pricey; book ahead and watch for sales.
By Train
VIA Rail operates Canada's national passenger rail network, but routes are limited and infrequent outside the Québec City–Windsor corridor. The Canadian (Toronto–Vancouver, 3.5 days) and the Ocean (Montréal–Halifax) are scenic journeys worth doing for the experience rather than pure transport. Passes are available for non-residents; book early as sleeper space sells out.
By Bus
Greyhound Canada ceased operations in 2021, leaving a patchwork of regional carriers. Ontario Northland, Maritime Bus, Orléans Express (Québec), and BC's various regional operators cover their respective territories. Flixbus has entered some corridors. Coverage is thinner than it used to be, especially in western Canada.
By Car
A car is close to essential if you want to explore beyond city centres, particularly in the west and north. All major international rental companies operate in Canada. Roads are generally excellent; the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) links all ten provinces, running roughly 7,800 km from Victoria, BC to St. John's, NL.
Winter driving demands respect. Snow tires are legally required in Québec from December 1 to March 15, and strongly recommended everywhere else. Mountain passes in BC and Alberta can close without warning. Check road conditions through provincial transport websites before heading out.
Gas prices are higher than in the US, with regional variation; expect to pay more in remote areas.
By Ferry
Ferries are integral to travel in coastal British Columbia. BC Ferries operates one of the largest ferry systems in the world, connecting Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands, the Sunshine Coast, and northern communities. Marine Atlantic runs between North Sydney, NS and Port aux Basques, NL (a key link to Newfoundland). Book ahead in summer, especially with a vehicle.
In Cities
Toronto, Montréal, and Vancouver have good transit systems including metro/subway. Ottawa has a new light rail line. Smaller cities are car-dependent. Cycling infrastructure has improved dramatically in major cities over the past decade.