Canada is vast. Here’s how to navigate this continent-sized country

With towering snow-capped peaks, evergreen forests teeming with wildlife, shimmering blue waters, and coastlines peppered with quaint towns, this is not a fantasy realm; this is Canada, home to some of the planet’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Traversing Canada’s six time zones, 10 provinces, and three territories may seem like an intimidating task – and it can be. However, thanks to budget airlines, a national rail service, and numerous car rental options, Canada becomes highly accessible for adventurous travelers.

Given its immense size and diverse regions, various areas in Canada utilize different transportation methods. Trains operate in busier regions such as the Toronto–Montréal corridor, while public ferries are prevalent in British Columbia, Québec, and the Maritime provinces.

For those looking to cover vast distances quickly, regional and national airlines connect the country efficiently. Flying significantly reduces travel time and allows access to northern areas that are otherwise unreachable by road.

All major cities in Canada boast public transportation systems and are dedicated to expanding their networks of subways, streetcars, buses, and bike paths. Smaller cities also prioritize public transport.

If you're looking to travel between cities in Canada, hopping on a plane or train (and sometimes taking a ferry) to move from province to province without the hassle of renting a car is entirely feasible.

Here are the top methods for navigating Canada: by plane, train, car, boat, or even on foot.

Driving is one of the best ways to explore the country.

Canada offers incredible road-trip possibilities, and its expansive landscapes and stunning natural beauty make driving one of the top methods for getting around. Additionally, train and plane fares can quickly accumulate, often missing out on the most remote locations.

Except for the northern territories, the entire country is accessible via the Trans-Canada Highway, allowing you to journey from Vancouver, British Columbia, to St. John’s, Newfoundland in just about 76 hours (traffic permitting, of course).

Having a car simplifies hopping between towns, visiting national parks, and stopping at intriguing spots that other transport methods might overlook. Major cities like Toronto and Montréal were designed with drivers in mind, though they now feature extensive public transit options (and notoriously heavy traffic).

Tip for coast-to-coast travel: If you’re pressed for time, combining car rentals with inter-province flights is likely your best bet for traversing Canada. Long stretches of prairie land can be tedious, and while they have their charm, a 12-hour drive through such flat terrain might not be the most efficient use of your time in the country.

How simple is it to rent a car in Canada?

In most provinces, travelers can legally drive for up to three months using their home country’s driver’s license. In British Columbia, this duration extends to six months.

If you plan to stay in Canada for an extended period, consider obtaining an International Driving Permit (IDP), valid for one year. You can acquire one from your home automobile association for a small fee. Remember to carry your home license alongside the IDP.

To rent a car in Canada, you typically need to: be at least 25 years old (some companies will rent to those aged 21 to 24 for an extra fee); possess a valid driver’s license (an international permit may be necessary if you’re from a non-English or non-French-speaking country); and have a major credit card.

Major international car rental agencies usually have locations at airports, train stations, and city centers. In Canada, renting a car on the spot is often pricier than making a reservation in advance. Alternatively, you can rent through services like Zipcar and Turo, which operate similarly to Airbnb but for cars.

Take in Canada’s breathtaking views from the comfort of a train

Experiencing train travel in Canada is a must for any rail enthusiast. The Canadian railways pass through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, navigating mountain valleys and running alongside rushing rivers.

VIA Rail operates the majority of Canada’s intercity and transcontinental passenger trains, covering over 14,000 km (8699 miles) of tracks. In some remote areas, like Churchill, Manitoba, trains offer the only land access available.

Rail services are most effective in the corridor stretching from Québec City to Windsor, Ontario—especially between the two key hubs of Montréal and Toronto. However, the rail network does not reach Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, or the Northwest Territories.

Traveling by train tends to be pricier than taking the bus and often matches flight costs. Nonetheless, many enjoy the comfort and fun of train journeys. The peak season runs from June to mid-October, during which ticket prices can soar by about 40%. Booking in advance (even just five days ahead) can lead to significant discounts.

For those looking to combine train travel with sightseeing, VIA Rail offers several iconic routes: the Canadian (from Toronto to Vancouver), Hudson Bay (from Winnipeg to the polar-bear haven of Churchill), Ocean (from Montréal to Halifax), and the journey from Jasper to Prince Rupert through the breathtaking Canadian Rockies.

Additionally, privately operated regional train services provide further rail-tour experiences, such as the renowned Rocky Mountaineer.

Cut costs by choosing bus travel

Most major cities can be reached by coach. While Greyhound Canada has significantly reduced its services (now only operating routes to the USA), Megabus still provides numerous routes throughout Ontario and Québec. Regional bus companies cover other interprovincial routes.

Buses tend to be clean, comfortable, and dependable. Amenities often include onboard restrooms, air-conditioning (consider bringing a sweater), reclining seats, free Wi-Fi, and films. During long trips, buses make meal breaks every few hours, typically at highway service areas.

While bus travel takes longer than other transport options, it is much cheaper. Purchasing your ticket online early will save you money, but if you wait too long, prices can soar to $250, at which point flying might be a better option.

If you’re pressed for time, flying is the way to go

A recent and exciting development in Canadian air travel, several new airlines like Swoop, Flair, and Lynx have emerged to compete with WestJet and Air Canada for their relatively pricey interprovincial flights. These budget carriers can whisk you from Toronto to Halifax for as little as CAD$49, or from Vancouver to Montréal for just $60.

However, don’t expect to take carry-on luggage for free: these ultra-low-cost airlines charge extra for nearly everything, and those fees can accumulate quickly. But if you're budget-conscious and only have a small backpack (be sure to check the size limits before booking), traveling across Canada by air has never been more affordable.

Explore Canada’s scenic back roads on a bicycle

Much of Canada is ideal for cycling enthusiasts. With a bit of planning, you can embark on long-distance journeys entirely along peaceful back roads, and many cities, including Edmonton, Montréal, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, and Victoria, feature dedicated bike paths.

Cycling across Canada is a three-month endurance challenge. There’s a strong support network at Biking Across Canada if you're looking to join a group or seek advice for this ambitious endeavor.

Purchasing a bike in Canada is straightforward, and reselling it before you depart is just as easy. Specialized bike shops offer the best selection and guidance, while general sporting-goods stores might have more competitive prices. Many bicycle shops and rental services also sell used bikes. For the best deals, explore flea markets, garage sales, thrift shops, Facebook Marketplace, and Kijiji, or check noticeboards at hostels and universities; these are also prime spots to sell your bike.

Experience Canada’s island charm by boat

Taking the ferry is a delightful way to access destinations like Victoria on the West Coast or St. John’s, the easternmost point of Canada. In Toronto, you can catch a ferry to the Toronto Islands—time it perfectly for breathtaking sunset views of the skyline.

With its vast coastline, Canada has an extensive ferry network, particularly in the Atlantic provinces and British Columbia. Walk-on passengers and cyclists can typically board without issue, but it’s wise to call ahead for vehicle reservations or cabin accommodations, especially during the summer peak season and holidays.

Accessible travel options in Canada

Canada is taking significant steps to address the daily challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, particularly those with mobility issues. Increasingly, public buildings such as museums, tourist information centers, train stations, shopping malls, and cinemas are equipped with ramps and lifts. Most public restrooms now feature wider stalls with handrails, and many pedestrian crossings have sloping curbs or curb cuts for easier access.

Many newly built or renovated hotels, especially chain establishments, offer rooms with wide doorways and spacious bathrooms. Interpretive centers at national and provincial parks are typically accessible, and numerous parks have wheelchair-friendly trails.

Car rental companies provide hand-controlled vehicles and vans with wheelchair lifts at no extra cost, but advance reservations are necessary.

For information on accessible air, bus, rail, and ferry services, visit the federal government’s website. Generally, most transportation providers can accommodate individuals with disabilities if you inform them of your requirements when booking.