Canadians are obsessed with visiting these 9 cozy small towns and pretty cities in Canada
If you're dreaming of the perfect fall getaway in Canada, but are feeling spoiled for choice with so many cozy small towns and bustling cities to visit, get ready to take notes! A new report has shortlisted Canada's most popular fall destinations, and the top spots are perfect seasonal travel inspo.
On September 18, Airbnb published its "Falling for Canada" report, showcasing the spots that are top of Canadian travellers' bucket lists this fall. While international hotspots like Paris, Tokyo, and Rome made the list, domestic getaways dominated, with more and more Canadians opting to stay closer to home.
According to the report, Canadians are favouring quick getaways to mountain towns, coastal retreats, and cultural hubs across the country, with nine locations standing out as the top picks for autumn based on internal booking data.
From alpine hideaways in Alberta to historic hubs in Quebec and the Maritimes, these are the most bucket–list–worthy Canadian destinations for fall 2025 — so grab a pen!
Banff, AB
For anyone who has ever visited this quaint corner of the Rockies, it'll come as no surprise that Banff topped the list of popular fall getaways in Canada.
The town itself is cozy and walkable, with quaint coffee shops, charming boutiques, and restaurants tucked against the dramatic backdrop of the surrounding mountains. As the season shifts, golden larch trees light up the nearby walking trails, and the higher peaks often get their first dusting of snow.
With turquoise lakes nearby and panoramic mountain vistas in every direction, this cozy small town is a must-visit year-round — but especially right now!
Tofino, BC
Tucked along the west coast of Vancouver Island, Tofino is a small town that feels both rugged and welcoming.
Fall marks the start of storm-watching season, when powerful waves crash against the coastline and grey skies add drama to the horizon. Chesterman Beach and Long Beach are ideal for long walks, with surfers in wetsuits braving the cold water while visitors bundle up with a steaming coffee in hand. Afterward, it's easy to warm up in town with fresh seafood, or a snack from one of the local bakeries.
This time of year, when the mist settles low and the rainforest trails glisten with rain, Tofino is understandably a firm favourite among those who venture there.
Victoria, BC
Rounding out a trio of West Coast favourites, Victoria brings a different kind of charm to the list. Instead of wild surf or alpine peaks, the city leans into history and harbour-front beauty.
During the fall, Victoria's leafy neighbourhoods glow in shades of red and gold, while downtown cobblestone streets practically beg visitors to browse between quaint bookshops, cozy cafes, and lively pubs.
The cooler weather highlights Victoria's thriving food scene, too, where seasonal menus and cozy dining rooms make it easy to settle in after a day of exploring.
Halifax, NS
Over to Canada's East Coast for the fourth-placed spot, Halifax is a city on many Canadians' travel bucket list for fall — and for good reason.
Downtown, heritage buildings house pubs, cafes, and live music venues that keep the city buzzing well into the cooler months. Visitors can climb Citadel Hill for sweeping views, browse local farmers' markets, explore art galleries or head just outside town to watch the ocean crash against rugged cliffs.
The city's seafood scene also shines this time of year, with chowder, mussels, and lobster rolls offering comfort against the cool Atlantic air.
Kelowna, BC
Located in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, Kelowna is the ideal fall getaway for so many Canadians. The city promises vineyards and orchards surrounded by seasonal colour, while wineries welcome visitors for tastings paired with sweeping views of the valley.
Downtown, cafes, breweries, and markets make it easy to sample the region's seasonal produce, from crisp apples to late-harvest wines.
The waterfront paths and nearby hillsides are also quieter in the fall, offering space to slow down and take in the changing scenery.
St. John's, NL
Next up: St. John's. The city's colourful row houses brighten the harbourfront, while steep streets lead to cheerful pubs, pretty galleries, and cozy cafes that are easy to duck into when the weather turns.
Beyond the downtown core, Signal Hill and the rugged coastline deliver dramatic ocean views, often framed by rolling fog as the seasons change.
Cooler weather makes comfort food a highlight, from seafood chowder to hearty stews served in welcoming local restaurants.
Calgary, AB
In 7th place on the list is Calgary, shaking off the misconception that this city is best known for being a gateway to the mountains.
The city’s parks, from Fish Creek Provincial Park to the Bow River Pathway, burst into colour as leaves turn gold and red, creating some of the best spots for hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the crisp air. Autumn also brings a lineup of seasonal events, from Oktoberfest celebrations to spooky attractions like ScreamFest.
With the Rockies still just an hour or so away, Calgary has the best of both worlds, wrapped up in a perfect fall-inspired package.
Quebec City, QC
If you want to feel like you're experiencing the fall in Europe, look no further. Coloured like an autumn postcard, Quebec City's cobblestone streets and historic architecture become even more atmospheric when lined with red and gold leaves.
Visitors can wander through Old Quebec, where cafes and bistros promise snug escapes from the weather, or stroll along the fortified walls for sweeping river views. Seasonal dishes, from hearty stews to buttery pastries, are a highlight after cool-weather walks.
Kawartha Lakes, ON
Closing out the list is Kawartha Lakes. Just a few hours from Toronto, this charming spot offers a peaceful escape centred around its namesake waterways.
Its network of lakes and trails creates endless opportunities for canoeing, hiking, or simply soaking in the fiery reflections of maple trees on calm water.
Small towns in the region come with cozy diners, farmers' markets, and the kind of community warmth that makes even a short weekend getaway feel restorative.
Whether it's a quaint mountain town, a buzzing harbour city, or a quiet lakeside escape, these top Canadian destinations show that the best of fall in Canada is often found close to home — one weekend getaway at a time!
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
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