Where Canadians Want to Go This Summer: Great Virtuoso Travel List

Luxury travel network Virtuoso has compiled a list of where Canadians want to travel this summer, and you might find a surprise or two in here. Here's a look at what they came up with.

(Note: They also did a study of where people around the world want to go. Canada came in third, behind only the UK and Italy).

As for where Canadians want to visit for a summer holiday this year, perennial favourite Ireland came tenth. It's a marvellous country, with scenery to spare, those famous pubs and wonderful, warm locals.

South Africa, already well known as an adventure and family destination, is also garnering attention for its arts and culinary scene in locales like Cape Town, says Virtuoso. Of course, for many Canadians, a chance to see lions and other animals in their native habitat is the best reason to go. South Africa placed ninth in the Virtuoso list of where Canadians want to go this summer.

Canadians seem to love Portugal, which came eighth on a Virtuoso list of where we'd like to go this summer. Lisbon is a magical city with great walks and terrific food. The hilltop palaces of Sintra are a short drive away. There's also wonderful wine-tasting north and south of Lisbon. And the Algarve is great for swimming and boating.

Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany is said to be the model for Sleeping Beauty's Castle at Disneyland. It's a lovely spot in the southern end of the country, which is a perennial must-see for Canadians. Virtuoso says the boom in river cruising has boosted the popularity of countries such as Germany, opening up the opportunity to explore tucked-away villages.

The Netherlands placed fifth on the Virtuoso list of where Canadians want to go this summer. Cities such as Amsterdam and Rotterdam have great appeal, but don't miss a chance to get out into the countryside. A bike tour is a great way to see more of the country.

Emerging from its financial upheaval, Greece places in the Top Ten due to pent-up demand. Its combination of ancient attractions and stunning scenery beckons travelers to return this year, says Virtuoso.

France placed fourth, just off the podium, in the VIrtuoso Top Ten list of where Canadians want to go this summer. From small villages to big cities and from famous wine regions to towering mountains, France pretty much has anything a traveller could want.

Despite some Canadian hostility towards US President Donald Trump, folks from north of the border continue to pour into the USA to visit famous sites such as Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. The USA came third in the Virtuoso list of where Canadians want to go this summer.

The timeless appeal of London helped propel The UK to the number spot in the Virtuoso poll. Cities like Lliverpool and Manchester also are worth a look. And Canadians have long had a love affair with Scotland and Wales.

It's no surprise that Italy would top the charts for Canadians for summer trips this year. From remarkable cities such as Florence, Rome and Venice to hilltop villages in Tuscany, there's pretty much something for everyone. For something different, try a visit to the beautiful Italian island of Sardinia, with its gorgeous coast and sensational beaches.