Canada is increasingly drawing European travellers looking for a North American escape, partly because of the political turbulence south of the border. With the so-called “Trump slump” steering some visitors away from the United States, airlines are responding by adding more transatlantic capacity to Canadian cities.
This summer, WestJet began flying from Cardiff in Wales to Toronto, and it will add routes from Glasgow and from Ponta Delgada in the Azores in May and June respectively. From its Halifax hub, the airline has also launched services to Madrid, Lisbon and Copenhagen, giving Europeans more direct access to Canada’s Atlantic coast.
Looking ahead to 2027, Air Canada plans to introduce seasonal flights from Toronto to Oslo, Shannon and Nice in June. The carrier will also start serving Dubrovnik and Basel from Montréal in May and June next year, expanding its European network from Quebec’s largest city.
Choosing your Canadian gateway
Each of the three main cities served by the new routes offers a distinct experience. Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is known for its culinary scene, from classic poutine to inventive fusion dishes like Jamaican-Italian cuisine or sushi pizza. Visitors can walk the ledge of the CN Tower, browse Kensington Market or explore the Distillery District. In summer, the Toronto Islands are a popular escape, and day trips to Niagara Falls or the Muskoka Lakes are within easy reach.
Montréal, in French-speaking Quebec, was once the country’s commercial capital. Today it attracts visitors with its old-town cobblestone streets, an underground city that shelters pedestrians from winter cold and summer heat, and a lively LGBTQ+ district packed with bars. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Halifax, the capital of Nova Scotia, serves as a base for exploring the province. From there, travellers can visit Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the best-preserved example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America, as well as Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse and the scenic Mahone Bay.
The new routes reflect a broader shift in transatlantic travel patterns. As trade tensions between the US and Canada continue to make headlines, some Europeans are choosing to spend their holidays in Canada instead. The country’s natural beauty, vibrant cities and welcoming culture are proving to be strong draws.
For those planning a trip, the seasonal nature of many flights means booking early is advisable. Summer services to Toronto, Montréal and Halifax are designed to meet peak demand, and the 2027 additions will offer even more options for Europeans eager to explore the Great White North.
Whether you prefer the urban energy of Toronto, the European charm of Montréal or the coastal tranquillity of Halifax, the new air links make it easier than ever to visit Canada. And with more routes on the horizon, the connection between Europe and Canada is set to grow stronger.
