What if we told you that you could explore Paris, Rome, Dublin, and Florence—all without ever leaving Canada? Sounds far-fetched, right? But Canada is sprinkled with towns that share names with iconic European cities. From alpine-style scenery in British Columbia to cobblestone streets in Ontario, this European road trip in Canada offers all the charm of Europe.
We’ve mapped out a road trip that travels coast-to-coast through Canadian cities with European names. Let’s hit the road!
British Columbia
New Westminster
New Westminster, or “New West” as locals affectionately call it, wears its British roots with pride. Named after the English seat of royal power, this riverside city in Metro Vancouver was once the capital of British Columbia. Today, it blends historical architecture with modern amenities and heritage homes.
With its SkyTrain access to Vancouver, New Westminster is an urban alternative for buyers wanting history and community all in one.
Castlegar
Castlegar in the Selkirk Mountain’s of West Kootenays may share a name with a town in Ireland, but its charm is all its own. Surrounded by lakes and forests, it’s a nature-lover’s paradise that still hints at its European connection.
The slower pace here makes for an appealing detour for travelers and a hidden gem for those looking to settle somewhere scenic.
Ontario
Paris
Tucked along the Grand and Nith Rivers, Paris is affectionately called “the prettiest town in Canada.” Its historic downtown is dotted with cobblestone buildings, boutique shops, and riverside cafés that give it a romantic, European feel. It’s the kind of place where you can spend a lazy afternoon walking the waterfront, enjoying fresh pastries, and watching kayakers drift by.
For those looking to leave the city behind, Paris offers a picturesque lifestyle that feels far removed from the rush of the GTA—yet it’s still just over an hour from Toronto.
London
Home to Western University and a bustling arts scene, this city brings together historic architecture, leafy parks, and a vibrant downtown full of pubs, theatres, and cultural events. It might not have Big Ben, but you’ll find plenty to explore—from heritage buildings to riverside bike paths.
London also attracts families, students, and professionals looking for a more affordable alternative to Toronto, with a strong sense of community and a growing real estate market.
Athens
Located in Eastern Ontario, Athens is a small village with big character. Its most striking feature? Dozens of hand-painted murals that transform the town into an outdoor gallery, each one telling a story from local history. Named after the Greek capital, Athens may not have ancient ruins, but it offers a rich sense of pride and tradition that makes it a joy to visit.
It’s the kind of place where neighbours greet you by name, and life moves at a refreshing pace—perfect for a road trip detour or a permanent retreat from city life.
Stratford
Stratford, Ontario, brings a touch of Shakespearean elegance to southern Ontario, with its name linked to Stratford-upon-Avon in England. Home to the world-renowned Stratford Festival, the town draws theatre lovers from across the globe each year for performances that rival London’s West End.
It’s walkable and full of cultural life, making it a desirable home base for those looking for a creative, close-knit community outside the city.
Quebec
Versailles
It may not have a grand palace, but it makes up for it with peaceful charm and a proudly French-Canadian identity. Near the countryside, it’s a quiet place where you’ll hear conversations in French, find fresh croissants at the local bakery, and enjoy the kind of laid-back atmosphere that feels lifted straight from rural France.
It’s a lovely destination for those who want to escape the noise, and for francophones or culture seekers, it offers a unique opportunity to live immersed in a lifestyle that echoes Europe.
Lourdes-de-Blanc-Sablon
On the far eastern edge of Quebec, near the Labrador border, Lourdes-de-Blanc-Sablon takes its name from the famous pilgrimage town in France. With its sea views and quiet roads, it’s a remarkable stop on a European road trip in Canada for anyone craving solitude and something a little off the beaten path.
New Brunswick
Bath
Bath, New Brunswick, may be small, but like its elegant English counterpart, it has a rich connection to water. Located along the St. John River, this rural village with Maritime character. Locals pride themselves on friendliness and community spirit, which is on full display during annual events like Bath Fall Fair.
Nova Scotia
Liverpool
Liverpool, Nova Scotia, once a privateering stronghold, shares its name with one of England’s most famous port cities. And while it doesn’t have the Beatles, it does have a proud cultural identity tied to its coastal setting.
With nearby beaches and charming homes, it’s both a picturesque pit stop and a viable destination for anyone drawn to East Coast living with a side of old-world influence.
Where a European Roadtrip in Canada Can Take You Next
Ready to hit the road? These towns are perfect for a European road trip in Canada. From Paris to Liverpool, this journey is packed with welcoming locals and plenty of moments worth pulling over for.
Thinking about moving to one of these charming towns? Browse local listings with Zoocasa. Start your search today.