Published on
September 27, 2025
In the first half of 2025, Canada has experienced an extraordinary surge in tourism, with countries like Iceland, Switzerland, Mexico, Brazil, France, and Ireland driving the influx of international visitors. This surge can be attributed to several key factors: Canada’s stunning natural beauty, including the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park, and Niagara Falls; strong cultural and historical ties with countries like France and Ireland, especially in cities like Montreal and Quebec; multicultural and cosmopolitan cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal offering a mix of cultural experiences and world-class amenities; and increased affordability and accessibility, with easier travel routes and visa policies, making it easier for tourists from places like Brazil, Mexico, and Iceland to visit. These factors combined have made Canada a top destination for travelers in 2025.
A Global Surge in Tourism: What’s Driving the Influx?
Canada’s tourism industry is experiencing a period of remarkable growth. The first half of 2025 has shown a record-breaking increase in international visitors, and it’s not just the usual sources of tourism that are driving this surge. Countries from all corners of the world, from the Americas to Europe, are sending more tourists than ever before, and each has its own reasons for choosing Canada.
Canada’s stunning natural beauty is one of the main factors behind its rise as a global tourism hotspot. The country’s picturesque landscapes, including the Canadian Rockies, Niagara Falls, and vast national parks, provide something for every kind of traveller. Whether tourists are seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Canada has it all.
Moreover, Canada’s diverse cities, including Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, and Calgary, continue to attract travellers with their mix of multiculturalism, history, and modern amenities. The country’s warm and welcoming reputation further strengthens its appeal, making it a top choice for international visitors.
Iceland: A Newcomer Driving the Tourism Surge
Iceland’s role in the rise of Canadian tourism in 2025 may come as a surprise to some, but it’s one that should not be overlooked. Icelandic visitors are increasingly drawn to Canada’s unspoiled natural beauty, much like their homeland’s dramatic landscapes. In fact, Iceland has quickly become one of the newest contributors to this tourism boom.
Icelandic travellers are particularly captivated by Canada’s diverse outdoor attractions, including the rugged beauty of Banff National Park and the majestic Rocky Mountains. These natural wonders offer Icelandic visitors the kind of experience they value — an opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying a safe and welcoming environment.
Iceland’s geographical proximity to Canada and the growing cultural connections between the two countries also play a role in this rise in tourism. As of 2025, Iceland has joined forces with countries like Switzerland and Brazil to significantly contribute to Canada’s tourism surge.
Switzerland: A Strong Contributor to Canada’s Growth
Switzerland has long been a key source of international tourism to Canada. In 2025, Swiss visitors are coming in even greater numbers, thanks to Canada’s natural attractions and cosmopolitan cities. Switzerland’s iconic mountains and lakes make it the perfect match for Canada’s awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains and tranquil lakes like Lake Louise.
In the first half of 2025, Switzerland recorded 25,020 visitors to Canada, marking a striking 114.9% increase in month-over-month tourism growth. With the strong appeal of Canada’s natural beauty, coupled with the multicultural offerings of cities like Toronto and Montreal, Switzerland’s growing interest in Canada is expected to continue.
Mexico: A Familiar Yet Thrilling Destination
Mexico’s tourism to Canada continues to rise sharply. In June 2025 alone, 36,746 Mexican tourists visited the country, representing a 20.2% month-over-month increase. Canada’s proximity to Mexico, along with the shared cultural ties, makes it a popular choice for Mexican travellers. Cities like Toronto, with its vibrant arts scene, and Vancouver, known for its natural beauty, continue to attract Mexican visitors looking for both familiarity and new adventures.
Mexico’s growing interest in Canada is also driven by the variety of attractions the country offers. Whether it’s exploring the wilderness, experiencing multicultural festivals, or enjoying world-class cuisine, Canadian destinations cater to the diverse interests of Mexican travellers.
Brazil: An Emerging Power in Canadian Tourism
Brazil has shown incredible growth in tourism to Canada in 2025. With 17,948 Brazilian tourists arriving in June alone, a remarkable 20.5% increase in month-over-month tourism, Brazil’s impact on Canada’s tourism sector cannot be ignored. Brazil’s growing middle class and increased international travel have contributed to a surge in Brazilian visitors to Canada.
Canada’s stunning natural landscapes and cultural vibrancy are major draws for Brazilian tourists. The allure of the Canadian Rockies, Niagara Falls, and cities like Montreal and Vancouver has captured the attention of Brazilians who seek both adventure and cultural experiences. Brazil’s contribution to this tourism boom is likely to continue as more travellers from South America discover all that Canada has to offer.
France: A Longstanding Connection
France has always been a significant contributor to Canada’s tourism industry. French tourists have been coming to Canada for years, and the first half of 2025 shows no signs of this slowing down. With 10,496 visitors recorded in the first half of the year, France remains one of the leading sources of international tourism to Canada.
The strong cultural ties between Canada and France, especially in cities like Montreal and Quebec, make Canada a particularly attractive destination for French travellers. The French-speaking population in these cities provides a familiar cultural environment for French tourists, who are drawn to the mix of European charm and North American modernity.
In addition to the cultural connection, French visitors are captivated by Canada’s stunning landscapes. From the Canadian Rockies to the charming historic streets of Quebec City, there’s much for French tourists to explore.
Ireland: A Rising Star in Canadian Tourism
Ireland is another key player in driving the surge of visitors to Canada in 2025. Irish tourism to Canada has increased significantly, with 12,572 Irish tourists visiting in the first half of 2025. This marks an 11.5% month-over-month growth, indicating that Ireland’s presence in Canada’s tourism market is becoming more pronounced.
Canada’s appeal to Irish visitors is multifaceted. The Irish are particularly drawn to Canada’s natural beauty, with destinations like Niagara Falls and Banff National Park offering breathtaking views. Additionally, Canadian cities like Toronto and Vancouver provide a rich cultural experience, making them ideal destinations for Irish travellers seeking both outdoor adventure and vibrant city life.
The Role of Other Countries in Canada’s Tourism Growth
Canada’s tourism surge isn’t limited to just Europe and North America. Countries from Asia and Latin America are also contributing to the influx of international visitors.
Germany: With 53,922 visitors in the first half of 2025, Germany remains a key source of tourism to Canada. German travellers are attracted to the country’s natural beauty, including the Rocky Mountains, and enjoy exploring Canada’s cosmopolitan cities.India: India continues to be a major contributor to Canada’s tourism growth, with 70,290 visitors recorded in the first half of 2025. Canada’s strong educational ties with India and its natural beauty are key factors driving this growth.China: With 43,335 visitors in the first half of 2025, China remains one of Canada’s largest sources of international tourism. China’s strong relationship with Canada, combined with relaxed visa policies, helps sustain steady growth in Chinese tourism.South Korea: South Korea’s interest in Canada has grown steadily, with 20,956 South Korean tourists visiting in the first half of 2025. The country’s emphasis on educational exchanges and business relations contributes to this rise in tourism.Why Canada Remains the Top Destination for International Tourists
Canada’s tourism boom in 2025 shows no signs of slowing down. The combination of natural beauty, cosmopolitan cities, and strong cultural ties to countries around the world has made Canada a top destination for travellers. Whether it’s the rugged wilderness of the Canadian Rockies or the vibrant multicultural cities of Toronto and Montreal, Canada continues to attract a diverse range of international visitors.
The country’s welcoming reputation, along with its ability to offer both adventure and relaxation, makes it the ideal choice for tourists from countries like Iceland, Brazil, Mexico, France, Switzerland, and Ireland. As tourism continues to rise, Canada’s place as one of the world’s top travel destinations is firmly secured.
In the first half of 2025, Canada has experienced an unprecedented tourism surge, with Iceland, Switzerland, Mexico, Brazil, France, and Ireland leading the influx due to the country’s stunning natural beauty, vibrant multicultural cities, strong cultural ties with these nations, and improved travel accessibility, making it a top global destination for travellers from these regions.
Conclusion
The first half of 2025 has been a landmark period for Canada’s tourism industry, driven by unprecedented growth from countries like Iceland, Switzerland, Mexico, Brazil, France, and Ireland. This surge in international visitors is a testament to Canada’s diverse offerings, from its natural wonders to its cosmopolitan cities and rich cultural experiences. With countries from around the world uniting to drive this tourism boom, Canada is on track to remain a top global destination for years to come.
