10 Small Towns in Canada That Are Just Like Europe

Did you know Canada is home to several charming small towns that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to Europe? From the Okanagan Valley’s Mediterranean-esque vibe to picturesque harbours on Nova Scotia’s South Shore, these charming communities offer a unique blend of Canadian hospitality with European charm. So when a trip to the continent isn’t in the cards, these 10 Canadian towns will give you a taste of Europe.

Vineyards and mountains surrounding Okanagan Lake in Summerland, British Columbia

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Summerland, British Columbia

Summerland, situated in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, evokes the charm of wine regions found in France, Spain or Italy. With its Mediterranean climate and atmosphere, it offers stunning mountain vistas, rolling hills, delightful winery tours and a variety of attractions.

The memorial clock tower, tulips and historic buildings on Queen Street in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

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Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario resembles a charming European village, featuring a beautiful main street with small shops and eateries. The town is famous for its historic inns, cozy bed and breakfasts, award-winning wineries and the renowned Shaw Festival Theatre.

An aerial view of Canmore, Alberta with mountains in the background.

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Canmore, Alberta

Canmore, Alberta, nestled in the Rocky Mountains just west of Calgary and adjacent to Banff National Park, resembles a charming European resort town in the Alps. It features quaint B&Bs, art galleries, unique boutiques and delightful restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, skiing and mountain biking.

Limestone buildings along the Grand River in Elora, Ontario.

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Elora and Fergus, Ontario

Elora and Fergus, located in Ontario, offer a taste of Scotland right in Canada. Nestled along the Grand River, these towns feature charming 19th-century limestone buildings crafted by Scottish stonemasons. Each August, Fergus hosts a lively Scottish Festival and Highland Games, showcasing their rich heritage. Visitors can explore unique shops and enjoy an annual music festival in Elora that adds to the vibrant atmosphere.

The Romanesque Revival-style Basilica of Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré in Quebec.

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Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré, Quebec

Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré in Quebec features a stunning basilica designed in Romanesque-Gothic style, attracting pilgrims from around the world who seek miracles similar to those found in renowned locations in France and Portugal. Nestled at the base of the Laurentians, the area boasts beautiful rolling hills and offers a variety of activities, including a spa and hiking trails.

Buildings lining the Grand River in Paris, Ontario.

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Paris, Ontario

Paris, Ontario sits at the meeting point of the Grand and Nith Rivers, boasting charming cobblestone streets that earn it the title of the “cobblestone capital of Canada.” The town features beautiful 19th-century architecture, a picturesque riverfront, delightful cafes, bakeries, country markets and a chocolatier.

Buildings with French-inspired architecture in Mont Tremblant, Quebec.

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Mont-Tremblant, Quebec

Mont Tremblant, located in the stunning Laurentian Mountains, features charming European-style architecture. This year-round resort town offers a variety of activities, including skiing, golfing, hiking and canoeing, making it a perfect getaway. It’s often compared to the picturesque Swiss Alps or Chamonix in France, and visitors can enjoy a vibrant selection of restaurants, bars and shops.

The Dunes Boardwalk in Bouctouche, New Brunswick.

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Bouctouche, New Brunswick

Bouctouche, located in New Brunswick, is a charming seaside town at the Bouctouche River mouth. It boasts one of the last significant sand dunes along North America’s northeastern coast, perfect if you can’t get to France to visit the Dune du Pilat in Bordeaux. The town is rich in Acadian culture and is known for its nature sanctuary as well as delicious fresh seafood.

The Central Presbyterian Church on the Grand River in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada

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Cambridge, Ontario

The Galt area in Cambridge, Ontario has a delightful European ambiance with its historic buildings lining the Grand River. Notable sites include the Central Presbyterian Church and the former Galt Post Office, which now serves as a vibrant center for reading, arts, innovation and education. The Gaslight District, with its charming cobblestone courtyard and walkways, features repurposed foundry structures that host a variety of restaurants, event venues and more.

Colourful seaside houses along the waterfront in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia.

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Lunenburg, Nova Scotia

Lunenburg, located on Nova Scotia’s South Shore, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a glimpse into a well-preserved British settlement, making visitors feel as though they’ve traveled back in time. Renowned as one of Canada’s most charming towns, it features historic homes painted in bright colors, alongside a variety of restaurants, distilleries, breweries, artisans and distinctive shops.