Two Canadian provinces have earned places on Lonely Planet’s newly released Best in Travel 2027 list, securing spots among the 50 most extraordinary destinations worldwide recommended by the renowned travel publisher.
Quebec and Prince Edward Island were the only Canadian regions selected for the annual roundup, which highlights must-visit international locations chosen by Lonely Planet’s global team of writers and editors. The 2027 list pairs Canada’s East Coast destinations alongside global landmarks ranging from Italy’s Veneto region to the salt flats of Gujarat, India.
Quebec: Recognized for Culture, Culinary Depth, and Vast Landscapes
Lonely Planet cited Quebec as North America’s premier hub for Francophone culture, noting its balance of urban heritage, expansive wilderness, and distinct culinary traditions.
Covering more than 1.5 million square kilometers, Quebec offers diverse regional attractions highlighted in the guide:
- Quebec City: Celebrated for its historic cobblestone streets and centuries-old European architecture.
- Montreal: Highlighted as a primary destination for food enthusiasts, recognized for a dining scene that extends well beyond traditional local staples like poutine and smoked meat.
- Regional Highlights: Recommendations include whale watching along the Saint Lawrence River and exploring the vineyards and rural landscapes of the Eastern Townships.
Prince Edward Island: Celebrated for Coastal Heritage and Seafood Excursions
Prince Edward Island was designated by the guide as an ideal destination for hands-on culinary experiences, particularly catching and sampling local seafood.
Despite being Canada’s smallest province by land area, PEI plays a dominant role in North American seafood production. The island supplies approximately 80 percent of North America’s cultured mussels and 30 percent of Canada’s oysters, while also maintaining a reputation for world-class bluefin tuna fishing.
Key geographic and cultural attributes featured in the selection include:
- Coastal Accessibility: With over 1,100 kilometers of coastline, no point on the island is located more than a 15-minute drive from the sea.
- Natural and Historical Attractions: Recommendations center on the expansive sand dunes of Prince Edward Island National Park and heritage sites associated with L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables.
