1. NIAGARA FALLS/NIAGARA REGION, ONTARIO

Photo courtesy of Mark Tomalty/Masterfile

It's hard to argue with the kind of star power that draws some 15 million visitors each year. With its casinos, wax museums and theme parks, the Honeymoon Capital of the world works overtime to give tourists added value. But nothing — nothing — surpasses the sheer wonder of standing beside the 670-metre-wide Horseshoe Falls as water thunders over the escarpment at a rate of 170 cubic metres per second. Canadians are also devotees of the peninsula's parkland and trails, world-class theatre, inns, restaurants and vineyards.

2. TORONTO, ONTARIO

Photo courtesy of Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation

Once known as a sleepy bastion of conservatism, today's Toronto vibrates with the restaurants, bars, arts communities and eclectic neighbourhoods that come with being home to the most multicultural population in Canada. With its lakeside location and dedicated green spaces, the country's largest city (and its financial pulse) manages to stay beautifully livable.

3. QUÉBEC, QUEBEC

Photo courtesy Yves Tessier, Tessima

In all seasons, Old Québec transports visitors to the heart of this country's storied past. The capital of la belle province and North America's centre of French culture, the city — with its historic buildings, elegant bistros, ancient cobblestone streets, promontory and fortifications — has European charm to spare.

4. MONTRÉAL, QUEBEC

Photo courtesy Tourisme Montréal, Stéphan Poulin

Arguably the sexiest city on the continent, Montréal is the latest word on every front, whether it's politics, arts, music, fashion or cuisine. Its citizens reflect a tempestuous mix of cultures, and nobody is shy about getting out on the street and living every day — and night — to the fullest. Vive la différence!

5. OTTAWA, ONTARIO

Photo courtesy Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation

On the surface, it's the sombre face of public service. But at heart, Ottawa is a town that embraces life. Skate the canal, bike or hike the Gatineau, stroll the bustling Byward Market, enjoy the annual music festivals - and much more.