The Canadian government wants to encourage its residents to travel more within the country this summer, and tourists can benefit too.
From June 20 to September 2, 2025, entry to all national parks in the country will be free. Normally, the entrance fee is around €7 per person per day. In addition to national parks, the offer also applies to numerous historic sites across the country that are managed by Parks Canada. These are often located right in the middle of cities.
Examples
On the Parks Canada website, you’ll find all the national parks, historic sites, and other attractions managed by the organisation. There’s also a handy map available:
Some sites are always free, while others normally charge between CA$4 (~€2) and CA$13 (~€8) per person. Here are some examples where you can save (from east to west):
- Cape Breton National Park: free instead of CA$9 (~€6)
- Prince Edward Island National Park: free instead of CA$9 (~€6)
- Halifax Citadel: free instead of CA$13 (~€8)
- Georges Island, Halifax: CA$15 (~€9) instead of CA$27 (~€17) (incl. ferry)
- Fort and Château Saint-Louis, Quebec: free instead of CA$12 (~€7)
- Fort George, Niagara-on-the-Lake: free instead of CA$13 (~€8)
- Waterton Lakes National Park: free instead of CA$11 (~€7)
- Jasper National Park: free instead of CA$11 (~€7)
- Banff National Park: free instead of CA$11 (~€7)
Instead of paying per person and site, longer trips are usually worth getting a yearly pass for CA$76 (~€47) per person or CA$152 (~€93) per group. This pass also gives free access to all the locations listed above. If you’ve already purchased an annual pass, its validity will be extended by 3 months — more info here.
Provincial parks and many other publicly owned attractions/parks are not included in the discount.
Other Discounts in Canada
- 25% off camping & accommodations managed by Parks Canada
- Free use of Parks Canada locks (for boaters)
- Museums in Canada:
- Free admission for children up to 17
- 50% off for ages 18–24
- Via Rail Canada:
- Children up to 17 travel free when accompanied by an adult (Economy class only)
- 25% off for ages 18–24 (Economy class only)
- If you’ve already booked, partial refunds are available on request.
Cover Picture: Banff, Canada | Photo by Ryan Stone on Unsplash