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 storm is forecast to drop up to 20 cm of snow in southern Ontario by this weekend

"Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions."

13 Canadian tax credits you could claim when filing your return this year

Some credits reduce the tax you owe and others get you money back! 🤑

I moved from Ontario to Alberta and these 6 things cost me way less now

Calgary is WAY cheaper than Ottawa, allow me to explain...💰

I'm a newcomer to Toronto and this is what locals get wrong about the TTC

Here's why Torontonians don't know how good they have it. 👇

Canada's new cap on NSF bank fees just kicked in and it could save you money

It's expected to save Canadians more than $600 million annually.

Conservatives are pushing a 'stand your ground' style law for home invasions

The law would protect people from being charged for acting in self-defence during a break-in.

Canada just promised $37M in humanitarian aid for civilians in Lebanon

The funding will go through UN agencies and the Red Cross to provide food, medical services, shelter and clean water.