Holidays to Edmonton

Located on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, Canada’s northernmost metropolis is famous for its sprawling green spaces and winter wonderlands. But the best holidays to Edmonton are more than a launching pad to nature. From speakeasies and hip art museums to a vibrant Indigenous culture and more festivals than you can shake an elk antler at, Alberta’s capital city has never been more alive.

Jeff McDonald

Edmonton highlights

Big-time nature

Get ready to be astounded by Edmonton’s natural splendour. Travel an hour east to Elk Island National Park — you’ll see loads of elk, bison and bears, especially along the Wood Bison Trail. Kayak Astotin Lake before picnicking on its sandy shores. Photograph the Milky Way at the Beaver Hills Dark Sky Reserve, or book holidays to Edmonton between September and April to catch the Northern Lights.

Indigenous culture

Learn about the Indigenous communities that make up Edmonton’s vibrant tapestry. Get an overview at the Indigenous Peoples Experience in Fort Edmonton Park before embarking on a Cree crafting workshop at Elk Island. The IAM Collective sells authentic Indigenous crafts at their store in the Indigenous Peoples Experience building. And the Bearclaw Gallery carries Canadian First Nations, Metis and Inuit fine art.

Where to stay

Great restaurants, galleries and museums will be right on your doorstep if you stay in the downtown core. Whyte Avenue is relaxed, artsy and a top spot for patio hopping on those long summer nights. Family-friendly West Edmonton gives you easy access to the West Edmonton Mall, formerly the largest on the continent. Its collection of arcades, water parks and rollercoasters is quite the spectacle.

Edmonton: Know before you go

Language	English, French
Currency	Canadian dollar ($)
Time zone	UTC-7 (MST) and UTC-6 (MDT)
High season	July – August
Low season	January – February

We scan 100 billion prices, so you don’t have to

Compare prices to bag a cheap holiday to Edmonton

Book your holiday to Edmonton, all in one place

Paul Swanson

Things to do in Edmonton

Nightlife

Start your night with a stroll through the Neon Sign Museum, whose historic signs illuminate the night sky. In summer streetcars play host to events that cover cask beer, cocktails and concerts. Come winter Victoria Park IceWay’s forest trails allow for ice skating under the dazzling lights of kaleidoscopic lanterns. Hockey hounds won’t want to miss an Edmonton Oilers game at Rogers Place arena.

Take in the culture

Edmonton has the highest population of Ukrainians outside of Ukraine. Visit the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village to learn about the early settlers’ way of life. The Muttart Conservatory is one of Canada’s largest botanical gardens. Each glass pyramid has its own ecosystem, transporting you to tropical climes during Edmonton’s frigid winters.

Places to eat

Edmonton’s food culture is influenced by its diverse population. Green onion cake, a popular snack from northern China, is the city’s beloved unofficial dish. At Uncle Ed’s it’s all about pierogi, cabbage rolls and borsch brought over by Ukrainian immigrants. While Bernadette’s celebrates Indigenous flavours in an upscale setting.

FAQs about visiting Edmonton

What is the rainiest month in Edmonton?

With an average rainfall of 11 cm, July is the rainiest month to go on an Edmonton holiday. When the weather turns, venture indoors and enjoy the city's shopping malls, art galleries, cafes and more.

How many days do you need for a trip to Edmonton?

How many days your trip to Edmonton should be depends on where you're coming from and what you want to do. If you live close by, three to five days is plenty of time to see the leading sights. If you're making a lengthy trip, it's worth booking a week or more to explore the city and surrounding areas.

How much is it to go on holiday to Edmonton?

Whether you're looking to splurge or save, how you prefer to travel will partly determine the cost. When budgeting for your Edmonton flights and hotels, consider all the options, from flying business class or economy to booking basic or upscale stays. When you go also matters, with some seasons bringing better value for a city break in Edmonton.

What language is spoken in Edmonton?

You'll hear English and French spoken most often around here. Brush up on a few local phrases during your city break in Edmonton and you'll easily fit in.

What is the coldest month in Edmonton?

February is the coolest time of year to visit. Take your Edmonton holiday then and you can expect lows of -25ºC (-13ºF).

What currency is used in Edmonton?

During your trip to Edmonton, you'll be using the Canadian dollar (CAD) for all your spending. You may find it useful to carry a mix of cash and cards to avoid any payment issues.

What is the cheapest time to go to Edmonton?

Secure your Edmonton flights and hotels in May, the most affordable time to go based on airfares. With the cash you save, consider upgrading your stay or adding travel perks like extra baggage allowance and lounge access.

Is it safe to travel to Edmonton?

You can generally count on your holiday to Edmonton to be an enjoyable and safe experience, especially if you're sticking to the main tourist areas. That said, it's always good to exercise some precautions so you can avoid any hiccups along the way. For example, keep your valuables safe and secure, be mindful of your surroundings, and stick to well-lit areas at night.

What is the hottest month in Edmonton?

The hottest month in Edmonton is July, when temperatures peak at 25ºC (77ºF).

Is Edmonton a good holiday destination?

Whether you're into art, history, or anything else, there are loads of things to do in Edmonton. Royal Alberta Museum and Fort Edmonton Park are just a glimpse of why this city is worth exploring.