Summer is a time to escape from the every day and explore a new locale. In a place as big and diverse as Canada, there’s no need to leave the country to get that getaway experience.

From coast to coast, Canada is brimming with fantastic summer destinations just begging for a visit. Most Canadians haven’t done much travel outside of their small corner of this vast country, so why not use this summer to get to know your own backyard a little more? Here’s an overview of some of Canada’s top summer hotspots.

Victoria, British Columbia

If you had your heart set on visiting an island this summer, then BC’s capital city of Victoria on Vancouver Island is the place to go. Victoria is sunny, warm, and offers an abundance of outdoor activities. It has a “big small town” feel with highly walkable areas and plenty of landmarks to explore. You can go shopping, bar hopping, whale watching, kayaking, or hiking along some of the many trails within a short distance of the city.

Kelowna, British Columbia

A paradise nestled in BC’s interior, Kelowna sits on the shores of beautiful Okanagan Lake. The area offers endless opportunities for winery tours and wine tastings. Once you’re finished with the wineries, you can take a dip in the lake or pay a visit to a local farmer’s market. Those looking for some light exercise and astounding views should head for an easy hike to Myra Canyon.

Canmore, Alberta

Tucked away underneath Rundle Mountain and built along the glacial Bow River, Canmore is your ideal mountain getaway. Located just outside of Banff National Park, Canmore is far less crowded and congested than Banff Town during the busy summer season. Canoeing, mountain biking, and fishing opportunities abound. Staying in Canmore also puts you within a short distance of hundreds of kilometres of hiking trails perfect for both beginners and experts.

Churchill, Manitoba

If you’re really looking for some adventure this summer, then head to Churchill, Manitoba. This northern town provides a great base from which to explore Canada’s tundra region. During the summer, hundreds of birds migrate overhead and thousands of beluga whales gather off the coast and mingle with kayakers and snorkelers. Take a tour through the tundra on a wheeled cart pulled by a team of dogs, and you might even catch sight of a polar bear!

Quebec City, Quebec

Craving some Old World, European charm? Instead of booking an expensive flight across the Atlantic, take a trip to Quebec City. The romantic cobblestone streets, charming hotels, cozy patios, delectable food, and lofty cathedrals of Quebec’s capital will transport you to an entirely different world. Make sure you catch one of the city’s many summer circus performances and that you check out the majestic outdoor playground located just minutes from the city limits as well.

Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

Cape Breton Island provides 10,000 square kilometres of nature, culture, and history to discover. Boat tours allow you to get up close with an abundance of wildlife, including seals, whales, and puffins. Dine on the freshest seafood in the world and visit the local breweries and distilleries at the welcoming towns that dot the island. If you’re interested in taking one of the most scenic drives in the world, then rent a car and head to the Cabot Trail.

No one doubts that Canada is a winter wonderland during the colder months, and there should be no question that it’s a traveller’s paradise during the summer as well. With destinations this beautiful and diverse sitting right on your doorstep, there’s no need to travel internationally just to see something new.