15 Facts About Canada Most People Get Wrong

Canada is home to 38.2M people across 9,984,670 km², making it one of the most sparsely populated countries on the planet. It ranks 2nd in the world for Area.

Below are 15 facts about Canada, covering history, geography, economy and culture, including several that regularly surprise people who think they already know the country.

CapitalOttawa
Population38.2M
Area9,984,670 km²
LanguageEnglish / French
CurrencyDollar (CA$)
Calling Code+1

15 Facts About Canada

A complete overview of Canada's history, geography, economy and culture, covering everything from population and borders to language, climate and travel.

1

Canada has the longest coastline in the world at 202,080 km.

2

Canada produces over 70% of the world's maple syrup, with Quebec accounting for the vast majority.

3

Ice hockey was invented in Canada in the 1870s.

4

Canada is the second largest country in the world by area.

5

Canada is located in North America, North America, with its capital city in Ottawa.

6

The population of Canada is approximately 38.2M, spread across 9,984,670 km² of territory.

7

Canada has a population density of 4/km²: one of the most sparsely populated countries on Earth.

8

Canada has a coastline of 202,080 km, giving it access to maritime trade, fishing and coastal tourism.

9

Canada shares land borders with 2 countries: United States, Denmark.

10

The official languages of Canada are English / French, making it straightforward for international visitors to communicate.

11

Canada uses the Dollar (CA$) as its official currency.

12

Canada gained independence in 1867, establishing itself as a sovereign nation in North America.

13

The total GDP of Canada is $2.14T, with a GDP per capita of $56,100, classifying it as a high-income economy.

14

Canada has a varies enormously, arctic north, continental center, temperate coasts climate, with the best time to visit being June–September.

15

Canada is considered a Expensive destination for travellers, with meals averaging $12–20.

Did You Know?

Canada invented basketball, standard time zones, and the telephone. It spans six time zones and has more lakes than all other countries combined.

🏆 Canada World Rankings

Canada holds several notable world rankings; here is how it compares globally:

2nd
Area
World's 2nd largest country by total area
1st
Coastline
Longest coastline on Earth at 202,080 km
1st
Fresh Water
More freshwater lakes than any other nation
8th
Economy
8th largest GDP in the world

Famous Places in Canada

Canada is home to several remarkable landmarks and destinations that draw visitors from around the world:

💦 Niagara Falls

One of Earth's most powerful waterfalls, 3,160 tonnes of water flow over it every second

🏔️ Banff National Park

Canada's oldest national park with turquoise glacial lakes and Rocky Mountain peaks

🗼 CN Tower, Toronto

World's tallest freestanding structure for 32 years, still Canada's most iconic landmark

🏰 Old Quebec City

North America's only remaining fortified city north of Mexico, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Frequently Asked Questions About Canada

What is Canada famous for?

Canada invented basketball, standard time zones, and the telephone. It spans six time zones and has more lakes than all other countries combined.

What is the capital of Canada?

The capital of Canada is Ottawa.

What is the population of Canada?

Canada has a population of approximately 38.2M as of 2026.

What language do they speak in Canada?

The official languages of Canada are English / French.

When did Canada become an independent country?

Canada gained independence in 1867.

What currency does Canada use?

Canada uses the Dollar (CA$).

What is the GDP of Canada?

Canada has a GDP of $2.14T, with a GDP per capita of $56,100.

Where is Canada located?

Canada is located in North America, North America.

Is Canada safe to visit?

Safety conditions in Canada vary by region. Always check your government's official travel advisory before visiting.

What are some fun facts about Canada?

Canada has the longest coastline in the world at 202,080 km. Canada produces over 70% of the world's maple syrup, with Quebec accounting for the vast majority. Ice hockey was invented in Canada in the 1870s.

What are some interesting facts about Canada?

Canada produces over 70% of the world's maple syrup, with Quebec accounting for the vast majority. Ice hockey was invented in Canada in the 1870s. Canada is the second largest country in the world by area.

Canada facts: what should I know?

Canada is a country in North America with a population of 38.2M. Its capital is Ottawa and its official language is English / French. Canada has the longest coastline in the world at 202,080 km.

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