Cheap Places to Go in Canada That Are Actually Worth Visiting

Introduction

Canada has a reputation for being an expensive place to travel, and in some cases, that’s true. Cities like Vancouver and Toronto regularly rank among the most costly in North America, with sky-high hotel prices, overpriced restaurants, and attractions that seem designed to drain your wallet. Add in the long distances between destinations, and it’s easy to assume that traveling Canada on a budget is impossible.

But that’s not the full story. While some places will eat through your travel budget fast, there are plenty of cheap places to go in Canada that offer just as much natural beauty, culture, and adventure—without the inflated price tags. The trick is knowing where to go, when to visit, and how to travel smart.

The destinations in this guide aren’t just cheap for the sake of being cheap. They’re places where your money stretches further, whether through affordable accommodations, free outdoor attractions, or budget-friendly food options. You won’t find overrated tourist traps here—just real Canadian experiences that won’t leave you broke.

Now, let’s break down what actually makes a place affordable for travelers before jumping into the best budget-friendly spots across the country.

What Makes a Destination Truly Affordable?

Not every so-called “cheap” destination is actually budget-friendly. Many travel guides throw in major cities with “affordable options,” but that doesn’t help much if hotel prices are sky-high or transportation costs add up fast. A true budget-friendly destination is one where the overall cost of travel—lodging, food, attractions, and transport—stays low without sacrificing the experience.

Here’s what we looked for when selecting the best cheap places to go in Canada:

1. Low-Cost Accommodations

Lodging is usually the biggest expense, so an affordable destination should have hotels, motels, or alternative stays for under $100 per night. Some of the best budget options in Canada include:

University residences – Many universities rent out dorm rooms in summer for as low as $40–$70 per night (e.g., McGill University in Montréal or the University of Toronto).
Budget motels – In smaller cities like Moncton or Saskatoon, motels can be half the price of hotels in bigger cities.
Hostels and guesthouses – Some, like the HI Québec Hostel or HI Halifax, offer beds for under $40 per night.
Provincial park cabins and campgrounds – If you don’t mind roughing it, this can be a great way to cut costs, especially in places like Prince Edward Island or the Maritimes.

2. Cheap or Free Attractions

A place isn’t budget-friendly if you have to spend $30+ per attraction just to experience it. The best cheap places to visit in Canada have:

Free outdoor activities – Hiking, beaches, and scenic viewpoints should be a big part of the experience. National parks come with fees ($11 per day per adult), but provincial parks are often free or much cheaper.
Affordable cultural sites – Museums and historic sites with low-cost or free entry. For example, Winnipeg’s Canadian Museum for Human Rights has free admission on the first Wednesday of each month.
Free festivals – Many cities have public events and celebrations. For instance, Halifax’s Buskers Festival and Edmonton’s Street Performers Festival offer free entertainment in the summer.

3. Budget-Friendly Food Options

A city isn’t affordable if you’re forced to spend $20+ per meal. The best budget travel spots in Canada should have:

Cheap local eats – In the Maritimes, you can get a fresh lobster roll for $10–$15, while in Québec, a full meal of poutine costs under $10.
Farmers’ markets and grocery stores – Many Canadian cities have affordable food markets where you can grab ready-to-eat meals for much less than a restaurant. St. Lawrence Market in Toronto and Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market are great examples.
Affordable ethnic food – In cities like Winnipeg or Edmonton, you’ll find incredible Vietnamese, Ethiopian, and Indian food for a fraction of what you’d pay in more touristy areas.

4. Walkability and Public Transport

Expensive cities often require rental cars or frequent Uber rides, but the best cheap cities to travel to in Canada should be walkable or have low-cost public transit.

Québec City, Charlottetown, and Halifax have highly walkable downtowns, meaning no need for taxis.
Winnipeg and Edmonton have cheap daily public transport passes ($3–$10 per day).
Ferries in Atlantic Canada (like the Dartmouth Ferry in Halifax) offer scenic and affordable transportation.

5. Reasonable Transportation Costs

Domestic flights in Canada are expensive, but you can still find affordable ways to get around:

Budget airlines – Flair Airlines and Lynx Air offer one-way flights under $100 between major cities if booked in advance.
Train and bus deals – VIA Rail offers discounted youth and senior fares, and bus companies like Maritime Bus (East Coast) or Rider Express (West) have low-cost routes.
Road trip potential – Some of the best cheap places to go in Canada (like New Brunswick or Saskatchewan) are best explored by car. Gas prices fluctuate, but renting a car in cheaper cities like Halifax or Edmonton often costs less than in Vancouver or Toronto.

The Best Cheap Places to Go in Canada

Now that we’ve broken down what makes a destination affordable, let’s get into the best cheap places to visit in Canada that actually deliver on value. These cities and regions offer incredible experiences—without the high costs of places like Vancouver, Banff, or Toronto.

1. Québec City, Québec – European Charm on a Budget

Québec City feels like a slice of Europe in North America, but without the Paris price tag. While Montréal gets most of the attention, Québec City is just as exciting and even more affordable for budget-conscious travelers.

Why It’s Affordable: Hotels and Airbnbs are cheaper than in bigger cities, and the best part of the city—Old Québec—is completely walkable, meaning you won’t need to pay for transport.
What to Do for Free or Cheap:
- Explore the historic streets of Old Québec (a UNESCO World Heritage site) for free.
- Visit Plains of Abraham, a massive urban park with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
- Take the Lévis Ferry ($3.90 CAD) for one of the best skyline views—cheaper than any sightseeing cruise.
Best Time to Visit: Winter is the cheapest time, but September and October offer fewer crowds and lower hotel rates while still giving you that postcard-perfect atmosphere.

2. Halifax, Nova Scotia – Cheap Seafood and Coastal Beauty

Halifax is one of the best cheap places to travel in Canada if you love the ocean, history, and fresh seafood. Unlike expensive maritime destinations like St. John’s or Prince Edward Island, Halifax remains relatively budget-friendly.

Why It’s Affordable: Accommodations are cheaper than in most major Canadian cities, and you can eat well for under $15 per meal.
What to Do for Free or Cheap:
- Walk along the Halifax Waterfront and check out the historic ships.
- Take the Dartmouth Ferry ($2.75 CAD) for a scenic boat ride across the harbor.
- Hike up to Citadel Hill, which has free views and a small entrance fee if you want to explore the fortress.
Best Time to Visit: June and September offer lower hotel rates compared to peak summer.

3. Winnipeg, Manitoba – Underrated and Surprisingly Affordable

Winnipeg doesn’t make it onto most travel lists, but that’s exactly why it remains one of Canada’s cheapest cities to visit. The food scene is great, museums are affordable, and there’s a ton of free festivals in the summer.

Why It’s Affordable: Hotels and Airbnbs are significantly cheaper than in cities like Toronto or Calgary, and you can easily eat for under $12 per meal.
What to Do for Free or Cheap:
- Visit The Forks, a historic market and riverfront area with free cultural exhibits.
- Check out the Canadian Museum for Human Rights on free entry days (first Wednesday of every month).
- Walk through Assiniboine Park, home to gardens, sculptures, and a free outdoor theater in summer.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June to August) is full of free events, making it the best value.

4. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – A Hidden Gem for Foodies and Art Lovers

Saskatoon is one of the cheapest cities to travel to in Canada that still offers a vibrant culture. It’s perfect for those who love great food, scenic river views, and art without the high price tags of bigger cities.

Why It’s Affordable: Hotel prices rarely exceed $100 per night, and Saskatoon’s food scene is packed with affordable farm-to-table restaurants.
What to Do for Free or Cheap:
- Walk or bike along the Meewasin Valley Trails, which run along the South Saskatchewan River.
- Visit Remai Modern, a world-class contemporary art museum with free days and discounted entry fees.
- Check out free summer festivals like the Saskatoon Fringe Festival or Jazz Festival.
Best Time to Visit: July to September has the most free festivals and great weather.

5. Moncton, New Brunswick – Budget-Friendly Beaches and Unique Landscapes

Moncton offers some of the cheapest vacation spots in Canada for those looking to explore the East Coast without spending a fortune. Plus, it’s the gateway to some of the country’s most unique landscapes.

Why It’s Affordable: Accommodations are cheaper than in bigger East Coast cities, and nearby beaches and parks are free to visit.
What to Do for Free or Cheap:
- Visit the stunning Hopewell Rocks (entry is only $15 CAD, but it’s free after 5 PM).
- Walk along Magnetic Hill, where your car appears to roll uphill on its own.
- Spend a day at Parlee Beach, one of the warmest saltwater beaches in Canada.
Best Time to Visit: Late August to early September is cheaper than peak summer.

6. Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island – Affordable Island Getaway

PEI is often overlooked for more famous destinations, but it’s one of Canada’s most affordable provinces to visit. Charlottetown, the island’s capital, is charming, walkable, and packed with history.

Why It’s Affordable: The city is small enough to explore without needing a car, and there are plenty of cheap seafood spots.
What to Do for Free or Cheap:
- Walk around Victoria Row, a lively street filled with local shops and music.
- Visit PEI National Park ($8.50 CAD) for stunning coastal views and hiking trails.
- Rent a bike and explore the Confederation Trail, which runs across the island.
Best Time to Visit: September has lower prices and warm weather without the summer crowds.

7. Edmonton, Alberta – A Cheaper Alternative to Calgary

While many travelers flock to Calgary or Banff, Edmonton offers a much more budget-friendly alternative without sacrificing great food, culture, or nature.

Why It’s Affordable: Hotels in Edmonton are consistently cheaper than in Calgary, and public transit is inexpensive.
What to Do for Free or Cheap:
- Visit Elk Island National Park, just outside the city, for wildlife viewing (entry: $8.50 CAD).
- Check out the Alberta Legislature Grounds, a scenic public space with fountains, free tours, and picnic spots.
- Explore Whyte Avenue, the arts district full of affordable cafés and local markets.
Best Time to Visit: May to September offers great weather, free outdoor events, and lower hotel prices.

8. St. John’s, Newfoundland – A Colorful, Budget-Friendly Escape

Newfoundland is known for rugged beauty, and St. John’s is the most affordable entry point to experience it. While it’s pricier than other cities on this list, it’s still cheaper than most major Canadian tourist spots.

Why It’s Affordable: Accommodations and food are cheaper than in Halifax, and most attractions are free.
What to Do for Free or Cheap:
- Hike to Signal Hill, a historic site with breathtaking ocean views.
- Visit Cape Spear, the easternmost point of North America.
- Explore the colorful Jellybean Row Houses downtown.
Best Time to Visit: June to early September is best for good weather and lower prices before peak season.

How to Save Even More: Budget Travel Hacks for Canada

Even in the cheapest places to go in Canada, your travel costs can add up fast if you’re not careful. Flights, accommodation, and food can all take a chunk out of your budget if you don’t plan strategically. Here’s how to cut costs without cutting experiences.

1. Find the Cheapest Flights Within Canada

Domestic flights in Canada are notoriously expensive due to limited competition, but there are ways to find deals:

Use budget airlines like Flair Airlines and Lynx Air. These low-cost carriers offer flights between cities for as little as $50–$100 one-way if booked in advance.
Book flights 2–3 months ahead for the best prices. Last-minute domestic flights are usually overpriced.
Consider flying into smaller airports. For example, flying to Moncton (YQM) instead of Halifax (YHZ) or Abbotsford (YXX) instead of Vancouver (YVR) can save you hundreds of dollars.
Use Aeroplan points. If you have an Aeroplan credit card, you can book flights with points instead of cash—sometimes even on last-minute deals.

2. Choose Alternative Budget Accommodations

Hotels in major cities can easily cost $200+ per night, but these alternatives can help keep lodging costs under control:

University Residences: Many universities rent out dorm rooms for travelers in summer for as low as $40–$70 per night. McGill University (Montréal), the University of Toronto, and the University of British Columbia all offer this option.
Hostels: HI Canada runs clean, affordable hostels across the country, with dorm beds as low as $30 per night in cities like Québec City, Halifax, and Edmonton.
Budget Motels and Inns: Outside of big cities, you can often find local motels for under $80 per night, especially in Winnipeg, Moncton, and Saskatoon.
Provincial Park Cabins and Camping: If you love the outdoors, renting a cabin or campsite in places like Prince Edward Island National Park or Elk Island National Park can be significantly cheaper than hotels.

3. Cut Down on Transportation Costs

Getting around Canada isn’t cheap, but there are a few ways to save:

Take advantage of VIA Rail discounts. Canada’s train system offers discounts for youth (under 25), seniors (60+), and occasional 50% off sales. The VIA Rail Corridor (Québec City–Toronto) route sometimes has one-way tickets for $50–$80 if booked early.
Use regional buses. Instead of flying between cities, use Rider Express (Western Canada), Maritime Bus (East Coast), and Megabus (Ontario/Québec) for budget-friendly travel. A Megabus ticket between Toronto and Montréal can cost as little as $30.
Walk or use public transit. Many cheap places to travel in Canada are compact and walkable (like Québec City and Charlottetown), while cities like Winnipeg and Edmonton have affordable day passes for public transport.

4. Eat Well Without Overspending

Eating out in Canada can get expensive fast, but here’s how to keep food costs low while still enjoying great meals:

Grocery store delis – Places like IGA, Loblaws, and Sobeys have ready-to-eat meals for $5–$10, much cheaper than restaurants.
Look for lunch specials – Many restaurants in Canada offer discounted lunch menus that are 30–40% cheaper than dinner prices.
Find cheap eats in local markets – Halifax Seaport Farmers’ Market, St. Lawrence Market in Toronto, and Saskatoon’s River Landing Market all have food vendors offering $8–$12 meals.
Ethnic restaurants offer great value – In cities like Winnipeg, Edmonton, and Montréal, Vietnamese, Indian, and Ethiopian restaurants serve large portions for under $15.

5. Take Advantage of Free and Low-Cost Attractions

Many of the cheapest places to go in Canada offer incredible free or low-cost things to do:

National Parks Discovery Pass ($75 for the year) – If you plan to visit multiple national parks (like Banff, Jasper, or Prince Edward Island National Park), this pass pays for itself after just three visits.
Free walking tours – Cities like Québec City, Halifax, and Winnipeg offer free walking tours (just tip your guide).
Museums with free entry days –
- The Canadian Museum for Human Rights (Winnipeg) is free on the first Wednesday of each month.
- The Musée des Beaux-Arts (Montréal) has free entry for visitors under 30 on the last Sunday of every month.
- Many smaller museums across Canada have "pay-what-you-can" days, so check local tourism websites.
Free outdoor attractions – Hiking, beaches, and scenic drives don’t cost a dime. Some of the best free spots include Signal Hill (St. John’s), Hopewell Rocks at low tide (New Brunswick), and Cape Breton’s Cabot Trail (Nova Scotia).

Final Thoughts

Canada has a reputation for being expensive, but if you pick the right destinations and use the right travel hacks, you can explore the country without spending a fortune.

By focusing on affordable cities, free attractions, and smart travel strategies, you can make your Canadian trip both memorable and cost-effective. Now the question is: where are you headed first?