Canada is a large and diverse destination famed for Stanley Park in Vancouver, Banff Gondola, and Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, and this travel cost guide will help you plan the perfect trip without overspending. This Canada trip budget calculator shows you average costs from thousands of past travelers, including info on where to stay, what to eat, and what to see, so that your trip is both affordable and unforgettable. Whether you're exploring the energy of Montreal, eating the delicious cuisine in Quebec City, or taking in the beauty of Jasper National Park, we'll help you plan the ideal trip that stays within your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Canada?
A typical traveler spends $196 (CA$271) per day on a trip to Canada. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Canada based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $63 (CA$88) on meals
- $22 (CA$31) on local transportation
- $186 (CA$257) on hotels
A one-week trip to Canada for two people costs, on average, $2,749 (CA$3,794). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Canada expensive to visit?
Canada is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Canada is reasonably affordable compared to the other countries. It is in the top 25% of countries in North America for its affordability. You can find more affordable countries such as Mexico, but there are also more expensive countries, such as USA.
In Canada, budget travelers spend $71 (CA$98) per person per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $197 (CA$271) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $593 (CA$818) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Canada.
Whether you're looking for luxury or traveling on a budget, Canada has an array of accommodation and activities to suit your needs. For those on a budget, hostels in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver are available, but there are also luxury hotels for affluent visitors, and plenty of mid-range hotels for families and couples.
If you're worried about costs in Canada, there are ways to cut back, like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities.
For more details, see Is Canada Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Canada?
The average Canada trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Canada travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Canada cost?
Canada on a Budget
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Category
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Budget
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Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$33
(CA$45)
|
$93
(CA$128)
|
$291
(CA$401)
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$8.35
(CA$12)
|
$22
(CA$31)
|
$64
(CA$88)
|
|
Food2
|
$24
(CA$33)
|
$63
(CA$88)
|
$181
(CA$250)
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$9.32
(CA$13)
|
$24
(CA$33)
|
$64
(CA$88)
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$3-10
(CA$4-13)
|
$8-25
(CA$12-35)
|
$23-68
(CA$31-94)
|
The Toronto Skyline
Accommodation Budget in Canada
The range of hotel prices in Canada can be quite surprising, especially when you compare budget-friendly and luxury hotels. Peak season brings much higher prices, so consider traveling in the off-season for a more affordable experience. Booking in advance can also help with savings.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Canada for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $186 (CA$257). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $93 (CA$128) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Canada? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Toronto
As one of the more popular destinations, Toronto offers a variety of hotel options at a range of prices. You'll find typical hotel prices from $89 in the low season to $571 during the busy peak season. With many travelers lingering for up to seven days, you should prioritize finding a comfortable stay in a favorable location if you plan to explore the area. If you're looking for some good options, you should check out Le Germain Hotel Maple Leaf Square for $233 and Cambridge Suites Toronto starting at $169. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $31 for a dorm bed.
Montreal
In Montreal, which is a large city, expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $88 in the low season to $457 during the peak season. A La Carte Bed & Breakfast ($114) is one of the best hotel options here, and Hotel Nelligan is also good, and starts at $262. You can expect to pay around $27 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel. As many travelers typically stay for up to five days, ensure you find a cozy place in a good spot if you intend to explore for a while.
Vancouver
Vancouver is a large city that is one of the more popular destinations in Canada. During the peak summer months hotels can fill up early, so plan to book well in advance. In Vancouver, the average hotel price is $160 in the low season and $299 in the busy season. On average, four star hotels will cost $199 to $372. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $32 for a dorm bed. For hotels, a few of the best options here include Loden Vancouver for $239 and L'Hermitage Hotel starting at $231. Since travelers often stay up to five days, it's essential to look for a comfortable lodging option in a desirable location if you plan to explore for a bit.
Local Transportation Budget in Canada
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $22 (CA$31) per person, per day, on local transportation in Canada. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Canada is significantly more than public transportation.
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Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$22
CA$31
In Canada, public transit options are somewhat limited in many cities, especially if you're not heading to Toronto. It's advisable to rent a car or arrange for a form of transportation in advance, such as a guided tour. However, keep in mind that this might affect your overall trip budget.
Driving in major cities such as Toronto and Montreal is often not the best option because of the crowds and busy streets. With high parking costs and difficult traffic, it can be a hassle. By relying on public transit or walking instead of renting a car, you can save money and have a smoother experience.
If you're driving in a larger city, it's a good idea to ask your hotel about parking options ahead of time. You might need to pay for parking either at the hotel or in a nearby public garage. It could save you money to find a parking spot further away from the city center.
Typical prices for transit in Canada are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the overall transportation costs in Canada. Keep in mind that your individual costs will vary based on your method of transit, as hired cars such as taxis are generally much more expensive than public transportation.
Food Budget in Canada
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Canada can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Canada is $63 (CA$88) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$63
CA$88
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Canada is around $63 (CA$88) per person, with previous travelers spending from $24 to $181. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Canada are as follows:
- Breakfast: $11 to $19
- Lunch: $10 to $32
- Dinner: $22 to $51
- Coffee: $6
- Fast Food or Street Food: $10
Canada is known for its regional specialties and international cuisine. In large cities like Vancouver and Toronto you will find many different international restaurants, and many of the dishes are influenced by European and Asian cooking styles. In smaller towns there are often a good number of chain restaurants available, as well as a few local restaurants that are often quite good and reasonably prices. If you're camping, then grilling is a good option as there are often grocery stores near most of the major parks. This is a great way to keep your food costs low as well.
Poutine: Poutine is a popular Canadian dish that is made of french fries, cheese curds and a brown gravy. It was originally a regional specialty created in Quebec, but is now found throughout the entire country. You'll find it in most diners and cafe style restaurants as well as major fast food chains like McDonald's, KFC, or Burger King.
Croquignoles: This is a delicious homemade version of a donut that is deep fried in shortening. You can find it throughout Canada at various restaurants. Although not exactly healthy, it is tasty.
Nanaimo Bars: A nanaimo bar is a dessert dish that is made from custard or vanilla filled squares. It is made with a crumb base and topped with chocolate. It's a cookie based bar that requires no baking and is ubiquitous in Canada.
Canada is a great destination to enjoy the local food, as you'll find a variety of delicious dishes. A few of the best cities for food are Quebec City, Whistler, and Toronto.
Quebec City
If you're a traveling foodie, you'll enjoy your time in Quebec City. The city offers a mix of Canadian favorites and French dishes with a local twist. Favorite dishes that you must try include tourtières, pâté chinois, pea soup, and fèves au lard. There are also many local desserts to sample. You'll find some of the best French Canadian cuisine in the Old Town.
Whistler
Whistler is one of the best culinary destinations in Canada. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.
Toronto
One of the best culinary spots in Canada is Toronto. The food scene is as diverse as the city itself. You'll find classic Canadian favorites like peameal bacon sandwiches and beavertails, as well as almost any international cuisine you could want. Make sure you try the dim sum, roti, and street hot dogs.
Montreal
Make sure you don't miss the cuisine in Montreal. There are both local and international restaurants that serve up excellent dishes. Some of the local recipes that you should try include tourtiere (a meat pie), a smoked meat sandwich, and, of course, poutine.
Vancouver
Vancouver is not to be missed because of it's amazing cuisine. You'll find diverse restaurants and fresh ingredients. Local seafood is a staple in many restaurants so make sure you try the prawns, salmon, and even sea urchin. Asian food is also excellent around town. Sushi, Japanese hot dogs, and dim sum are all worth sampling.
If you find yourself in larger cities like Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver, eating at nicer restaurants during lunch instead of dinner is a smart way to save money. A number of restaurants in tourist areas or business centers provide lunch specials that are smaller and cheaper than their dinner options. You might be surprised to find a full multi-course gourmet meal at a budget price if you explore. Then, just keep your dinner light.
If you're heading to Whistler, Toronto, or Montreal for a week or more, it's a great idea for families or groups to rent an apartment or vacation rental with a kitchen. You can save money by cooking your own meals instead of dining out all the time.
When traveling with children, look for restaurants with a kids menu. This can save you plenty of money as these options tend to be much lower in price. Some restaurants don't list the kids' options on their menu, so ask the waiter before you order.
While numerous hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, some might add it as an additional fee. The quality and pricing of breakfast can fluctuate based on the hotel. Knowing this information in advance can guide your decision on whether to indulge in a hotel buffet or opt for a cheaper bakery or café nearby.
Carrying a water bottle instead of buying drinks can help you save money while also being good for the environment.
If a tour is on your agenda, be sure to confirm which meals are covered beforehand. Paying for some food out of pocket can really add to your travel expenses.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Canada. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Edmonton's #1 Food Bike Tour: The Best Local Food Tour on E-Bikes for $146 details
- Vancouver Foodie Tour: Downtown Vancouver Asian Food Tour for $152 details
- Taste of Banff Food Tour for $106 details
- Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour for $129 details
Listed below are typical food prices in Canada, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Canada
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Canada typically cost an average of $24 (CA$33) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$24
CA$33
As a very popular travel destination, Canada allows many visitors to tick off several items from their bucket lists. Notable places to explore in Canada are Whistler, Niagara Falls, and Toronto.
Whistler
Located only two hours from Vancouver, Whistler is home to the largest ski resort in North America. The village offers access to world class skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. During the warmer months the hiking and nature is fun to explore.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is located in Ontario. It's the location of one of the continent's most famous waterfalls, which separates Canada from the United States. On the Canadian side you'll find impressive views and a cliffside park. There are observation decks and elevators that take visitors to lower levels behind the falls.
Toronto
Toronto is the capital of Ontario, and its a large city that has climbing skyscrapers and a diverse population. The city is filled with amazing restaurants, great parks, countless museums, and plenty of entertainment options.
Montreal
Montreal is a cultural and vibrant city that is filled with history, music, and fine dining. Visitors will be enthralled by the city's parks, old town, and friendly personality. The tourist areas are in a compact set of neighborhoods that are easy to explore on foot and the setting is diverse and guaranteed to be fun-filled.
Vancouver
Vancouver is a popular Canadian city on the west coast. It has a spectacular setting between the Pacific Ocean and the mountains. It's also a diverse city with a vibrant Asian population and many great restaurants. Visitors enjoy the cultural opportunities that the city offers, but also appreciate the opportunities to get out into nature in the surrounding areas.
If you're looking for the excitement of a big city, some of your best options are Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. You'll find lots to do and plenty of culture, museums and restaurants around town.
The mountains are perfect for winter sports, with Whistler, Banff, and Kamloops being top picks for skiing and snowboarding. Just a heads up: prices in these areas can soar during the winter, so it's wise to plan ahead.
Hiking trails around the country draw plenty of visitors for their gorgeous views, natural beauty, and healthy activities. Some of the best places for hiking include Whistler, Vancouver, and Jasper National Park.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Canada. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Go Fundy Tours for $195 details
- Adrenaline Canyoning Tour Kelowna - Falls, Rappelling & Adventure for $162 details
- Helicopter Tour Over Mont-Tremblant 70KM ( 20 min ) for $159 details
- Icefields Parkway and Ice Bubbles of Abraham Lake Adventure for $191 details
Below are a few common prices for sightseeing and activity entry fees in Canada, all of which are based on the reports of previous travelers. These figures should give you a rough estimate of what you can expect to pay. Keep in mind, though, your costs will vary depending on the activities you choose and whether you take advantage of free or budget-friendly options.
Nightlife Budget in Canada
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $17 (CA$23) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Canada per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
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Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$17
CA$23
Canada is a highly sought-after spot for nightlife, drawing visitors from across the globe to enjoy its vibrant scene. Some of the top nightlife destinations are Toronto, Montreal, and Whistler.
Toronto
If partying is a priority while you're traveling, then you'll want to visit Toronto. It's a diverse nightlife scene, with upscale lounges, dive bars, live music, and high energy nightclubs. Popular areas for nightlife include King Street, the Ossington Strip, College Street, and Kensington Market.
Montreal
Montreal is one of the best nightlife destinations in Canada. The city's nightlife scene is centered around its live music scene, which is excellent. There are also many bars and clubs, as well as a young population that keep evenings lively.
Whistler
Visitors love the nightlife in Whistler. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.
Vancouver
The nightlife in Vancouver is quite popular. The city has a vibrant nightlife scene. Most of the activity is centered around The Granville Entertainment District in the downtown area. It runs along Granville Street between Robson Street and Davie Street. In the area you'll find a high concentration of bars and nightclubs.
Quebec City
When the sun goes down, the party picks up in Quebec City. The nightlife scene consists mainly of bars and pubs that you'll find along Rue Saint-Jean and in the Saint-Jean-Baptiste neighborhood. You'll also find clubs in Saint-Roch along Rue du Parvis and Avenue Saint-Joseph.
Nightlife is a blast when traveling, but scaling back on drinks can really help stretch your travel budget.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Canada. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Okanagan Private Wine Tour In Your Own Vehicle for $132 details
- Guided Bicycle Tour - Toronto Waterfront, Island and Distillery for $84 details
- Park Distillery Tour with Craft Spirits Tasting for $11 details
- Quebec City: Montmorency Falls and Microbrewery eBike Tour for $117 details
Below are some common prices for alcohol and nightlife in Canada, based on actual traveler experiences. While these numbers offer an idea of what you might spend, your costs will vary depending on how often you drink and the amount you order. If you're aiming to save money, cutting back on alcohol is a great way to lower your travel expenses.
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Bottle of Wine
CA$15
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Absolut at Barrie
CA$25
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Vodka
CA$25
Travel Costs Last Updated: Jun 7, 2026
Traveling in Canada
Old Town Quebec City, Canada
Canada is the second largest country in the world and offers a diversity of attractions. It covers a range of geographic areas including the stunning Rocky Mountains, the small fishing villages of Nova Scotia, and the beautiful lakes and prairies that spread throughout the country. Canada also has some of the world's most ethnically diverse and cosmopolitan cities including Vancouver and Toronto. The country also offers an abundance of winter sports including skiing, snowboarding and ice skating. Despite the frigid weather, this is a country where people love to be outdoors. While it's generally best to visit in the summer months during the warmer weather, if you head to Canada in the winter you will definitely find no shortage of activities.
Because of its vast size, flying can be the most efficient way to travel around Canada. Alternatively, many people choose to use the train which is a beautiful and fun way to see the country. Driving offers you the most flexibility and accessibility as destinations are often spread out. It is possible to access many areas, particularly the larger cities, by bus as well.
In general, Canada is comparable in cost to the United States. Camping is a great option if you're visiting the national parks. This will definitely allow you to stretch your dollar farther. If you're renting a car, try to pick up and return it in the same location, as the price is typically less. Also consider stocking up on groceries and cooking your own meals. Restaurants can be somewhat expensive and cooking is a fun way to save money. Canada has similar fast food restaurants to the United States. They're not always good, but they are cheap if you find yourself running short of funds. Also consider traveling during the off season when hotels are more affordable and attractions are generally cheaper. Also, like the United States, you'll be able to stretch your money farther if you choose one region to explore. Don't set out to see all of Canada. Instead, pick a few parks and cities and make your trip a regional vacation. This will cut down on costs as well because you won't have to take as many flights. As a rule, national parks are also much cheaper than cities. By visiting the country for its naturally beauty, you'll keep entertainment costs to a minimum. Even if you don't camp, hotels are generally cheaper near parks than in cities, and it's much easier to prepare your own food. So if you're hoping to travel around Canada on a budget, consider skipping some of the cities and instead spend more time in the country's very impressive national parks.
At A Glance
- Canada covers a vast area of land. It is virtually impossible to see it all in one trip, regardless of how much time you have. Definitely choose one or two regions that you can explore in depth. You'll have a more fulfilling experience and you'll save yourself a lot of money. Every region is different so do some research to determine what appeals to you the most.
- If you're hoping to cover vast distances, then flying is the most convenient way to get around the country. It is also one of the most expensive. Other options include taking trains, buses, or renting your own vehicle. Bus connections are decent but not great. They typically connect the largest cities. Having your own vehicle will allow you more flexibility and you will be able to delve into the experience on a different level.
- One fun way to experience the national parks throughout the country is to travel with a RV. This gives you the added flexibility of having your own vehicle, and you have your accommodation with you wherever you go. Many of the campgrounds have adequate hookups for RVs so this is a great way to experience all that the country has to offer.
- Wildlife spotting is a popular activity throughout the country. Whether you're looking for bears, whales, or something else, it's best to make sure you're traveling during the appropriate season. Also make sure you have a good guide with you as that can make all of the difference.
- You'll find most major western chain restaurants throughout the country. Fast food options are abundant and cheap, but generally the quality is quite low. Instead, look for local options. These are everywhere in the larger cities, and available on a smaller scale in the more rural locations.
Related:
Looking for a party hostel in Montreal or Vancouver?
Traveling alone to Toronto or Montreal?
Top Tourist Attractions
Whale watching: Whether you're on the Atlantic or Pacific Coast, Canada offers some breathtaking whale watching opportunities. You can see humpback whales or beautiful Orcas on the Pacific Coast. Choose your season wisely as many whales migrate and you want to make sure they are in the area during your trip.
Banff: Beautifully positioned in the Canadian Rockies, Banff offers wonderful skiing in an area that is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Halifax: Centered in the quaint island of Nova Scotia, Halifax is a wonderful jumping off point to explore the character filled towns around the island.
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations when it comes to your budget is crucial. A lot of people claim to be "budget" travelers. Many plan their trip thinking they can manage on just $71 a day like a shoestring backpacker. But the truth is, most aren't comfortable with roughing it on a trip. Reflect on what you truly enjoy and how you've traveled in the past. Are you a fan of resorts and comfortable hotels, or do you prefer the price range offered by hostels but with limited amenities? How important is dining in nice restaurants to you? And how do you like to get around? Your answers will greatly influence your overall travel budget.
Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?
You may have heard that it's possible to visit Canada for around $71 a day, but if you want to maintain any level of comfort, you should be ready to spend considerably more.
While budget travelers might manage to travel on that amount, it often means staying in hostel dormitories, eating at budget restaurants or fast food joints, using public transport or walking, and sticking to free attractions.
Fortunately, Canada has an abundance of hostels, particularly in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.
Could You Be an Average Traveler?
Couples or families on vacation will probably choose mid-range hotels, popular dining spots, and visits to major museums and attractions that charge entry fees. Most visitors will want to go to Stanley Park in Vancouver, Banff Gondola in Banff, or Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto on their trip. Since most activities have a cost, you should realisticly plan for your budget to be closer to $197 per person, per day.
With so many hotels and vacation rentals in Canada, you'll have no trouble finding a place that suits your needs. If you're splitting the cost with a partner, friend, or kids, you'll be able to reduce the daily per-person costs, too. You'll find plenty of family-friendly areas like Whistler and Niagara Falls where hotels and restaurants cater to little ones. Consider staying at Chateau Kimberley Hotel & Art Gallery in Kimberley or Panache Bed and Breakfast in Niagara-on-the-Lake for a kid-friendly experience. For a romantic retreat in Golden, couples will love Vagabond Lodge at Kicking Horse. Find more hotel options for families and couples in our hotel costs guide for Canada here.
What Luxury Travel Looks Like
If you're planning a vacation with all the finer things in life, prepare for a budget that can reach $593 per day. If you want upscale hotels, world-class dining, premium excursions, and private drivers, this will put you firmly in the "luxury" category. Some of the more high-priced destinations include Toronto and Winnipeg. Also, make the most of your time by booking a high-end multi-day tour such as Newfoundland & Labrador 12 Days - offered by Globus.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
We've been all over Canada and its surprisingly affordable. The seafood is cheaper than in Maine and the hotels are decent.