I'm a New Yorker who went to Canada for the first time. Here are 9 things that impressed me so much, I'm already planning a trip back.

Joey HaddenAug 28, 2024, 00:45 IST

The author went to Québec and Niagara Falls during her first trip to Canada in 2022.Joey Hadden/Business Insider

I went to Canada for the first time in 2022 and can't wait to return someday.
Over seven days, I traveled to Niagara Falls, Toronto, Montréal, and Québec City, mostly by train.

Immense waterfalls, scenic train rides, and cities that feel like Europe — I experienced them all during my first trip to Canada.

This was back in August 2022, when I left my home in New York City to spend a week in Canada's eastern provinces of Ontario and Québec.

Overall, my trip to Canada was only a taste of what the country has to offer — a rich bite that left me hungry for more. I knew from the moment I left that I would be back and hopefully soon.

I traveled to Ontario and Québec by bus, train, and plane, hitting cities and attractions from Niagara Falls to Montréal.

A map shows where the author traveled to.Google Maps

As a seasoned Amtrak rider, I found Canada's train system, Via Rail, to be so impressive that I want to return to try out more classes and routes.

The author travels in business class from Toronto to Montreal.Joey Hadden/Business Insider

I booked two Via Rail rides in economy and first classes.

A business-class car on a Via Rail train.Joey Hadden/Business Insider

After trying poutine for the first time, I have to go back for some different renditions.

The author tries poutine for the first time.Joey Hadden/Business Insider

I thought Niagara Falls was epic and beautiful.

Niagara Falls seen from a boat.Joey Hadden/Business Insider

I'd love to go back during the off-season to see what it looks like when it's not as crowded with people.

The author's view at Niagara Falls.Joey Hadden/Business Insider

I got a break from the crowds when I stayed at this treehouse Airbnb outside of Niagara Falls. It was the most peaceful part of my trip.

The author stays in a treehouse for one night.Joey Hadden/Business Insider

I stayed for one night and found it to be so peaceful and relaxing.

The author enjoys the treehouse.Joey Hadden/Business Insider

I loved exploring Montréal on foot...

A view of Montréal from the top of the mountain pictured.Joey Hadden/Business Insider

...especially Mount Royal.

A view of Montréal from the top of Mount Royal.Joey Hadden/Business Insider

The Old Québec neighborhood in Québec City made me feel like I was in Europe without the long-haul flight.

The author's view from her hotel room (L) and a street in Old Québec (R).Joey Hadden/Business Insider

I spent one night in the most gorgeous hotel that looked more like a castle.

Fairmont Le Château Frontenac in Old Québec.Joey Hadden/Insider

Canada is so large that I left feeling like I had barely scratched the surface. There are so many more places to explore.

A map shows where the author traveled to.Joey Hadden/Business Insider

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