Only one Canadian city was ranked a top travel destination for 2025 and we're confused

It's not Toronto, let's just say that.

Edmonton, Alberta.

A city in the fall.

Contributor

The best cities to travel to in 2025 were just revealed, and a Canadian spot made the list, although the choice may surprise (and confuse) you.

Lonely Planet released their 'Best in Travel,' highlighting the top cities, regions and countries — and Edmonton, Alberta was the only Canadian spot to make it.

Yep, you read that right — Edmonton was on the short list of the Best Cities To Travel in 2025. Alongside Edmonton were nine other dreamy destinations, like Palma De Mallorca in Spain, Osaka in Japan, Curitiba in Brazil and more.

Canadians might be a little shocked, considering it's typically cities like Vancouver, Toronto, or Montreal that get the hype – but Lonely Planet has spoken. Apparently, Edmonton beats the sparkling ocean and mountain views of Vancouver and the charming streets of Montreal.

"Edmonton, Alberta, has long been celebrated for its fringe festival and bohemian Old Strathcona district. Today the city is doubling down on its downtown with the opening of the Ice District, the second-largest sports and entertainment complex in North America. Further enrich your visit by learning about Indigenous history at Royal Alberta Museum's Human History Hall," the ranking said.

It also highlights the Royal Alberta Museum here, the boutique shopping, and the food scene on Whyte Ave.

If you're thinking of booking a trip, Edmonton might just be worth the stop. Maybe?

  • Narcity's Western Canada staff cover everything you need to know about what's happening on the West Coast, from weather forecasts and local events to new restaurant openings and viral moments. Spanning from Vancouver to Calgary, Edmonton, and everywhere in between, they're highlighting local awards, rankings, and the latest trends across Western Canada.

This Canadian city with vintage British charm was just named the word's 'best small city'

It's "the most British town in Canada"... and it beat actual British towns.

A burst of snow will bring up to 20 cm to Ontario this week before the cold snap ends

Temperatures will warm up but still be cold enough for "lingering" snow.

CSIS is hiring for these jobs and you can get paid up to $120,000 a year to be nosy

You'll help investigate threats to national security. 🔍

Costco is hiring for jobs that pay $20 to $25 an hour and some don't require any experience

Positions are available at a new unique warehouse that's opening in Canada soon.

6 cheap and safe Caribbean destinations to visit in 2026 if you're skipping Cuba

Turquoise waters, white sands, and no travel warnings. 😌🏝️

U of T is the only Canadian school in the top 10 of this new best universities ranking

It beat every Canadian university in all of these subject areas! 📚

Lotto 6/49 winners split a $5M jackpot with another ticket and didn't believe it was real

They checked the ticket online and at a store to make sure they really won the jackpot. 💸

Canada's 'most romantic town' is near Toronto and it's filled with European charm

It's the perfect place to visit with your favourite person.