Toronto, Canada-3-day-itinerary

Toronto Travel Itinerary: 3 Days in the 6ix

Day 1: Downtown Delights

Morning

  • Start at Union Station: Begin your day at this historic transportation hub, where you can grab a coffee and people-watch.
  • Walk to the CN Tower: Take a short stroll to the iconic tower and take in the panoramic views of the city from its observation deck (tickets: $36-$59).

Afternoon

  • Explore Kensington Market: This vibrant neighborhood is known for its eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Be sure to check out the colorful street art and grab lunch at one of the many international eateries.
  • Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario: With a collection of over 95,000 works of art, this museum is a must-visit for culture enthusiasts (tickets: $16-$25).

Evening

  • Dine in Chinatown: Head to Spadina Avenue and indulge in delicious Chinese cuisine at one of the many restaurants, such as Pai Northern Thai Kitchen or Mother’s Dumplings.
  • Take a stroll along the Waterfront Trail: End your day with a scenic walk along the lake, offering beautiful views of the city skyline.

Day 2: Culture and History

Morning

  • Visit Casa Loma: This majestic castle-turned-museum showcases an impressive collection of art and artifacts (tickets: $25-$30).
  • Walk to the Royal Ontario Museum: One of Canada’s largest museums, featuring a vast array of exhibits on natural history, world cultures, and science (tickets: $16-$25).

Afternoon

  • Explore Yorkville: This upscale neighborhood is home to high-end boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Be sure to visit the historic Village of Yorkville Park.
  • Take a break at the Toronto Reference Library: This stunning library offers a peaceful atmosphere and an impressive collection of books and resources.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner in Little Italy: Head to College Street for a delicious Italian meal at one of the many family-owned restaurants, such as Terroni or La Forchetta.
  • Catch a show at the Princess of Wales Theatre: This intimate venue hosts a variety of performances, from musicals to comedy acts.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventures

Morning

  • Visit High Park: This 400-acre green space offers walking trails, picnic areas, and a famous cherry blossom festival in spring.
  • Take a hike at the Scarborough Bluffs: These stunning cliffs offer breathtaking views of Lake Ontario and are perfect for a morning hike.

Afternoon

  • Rent a bike and ride along the Waterfront Trail: Take in the scenic views of the lake while getting some exercise.
  • Visit the Toronto Islands: Accessible by ferry, these car-free islands offer beautiful parks, beaches, and gardens.

Evening

  • Dine at the St. Lawrence Market: This historic market offers a variety of food vendors serving up everything from seafood to sandwiches.
  • End your day with a Harbourfront Centre concert or event: This waterfront complex hosts a range of performances and events throughout the year.

Where to Stay

  • Budget: The Parkdale Hostel (dorms from $30, private rooms from $60)
  • Mid-range: The Hotel Victoria (rooms from $120)
  • Luxury: The Shangri-La Hotel Toronto (rooms from $250)

Things to Know

  • Weather: Be prepared for unpredictable Canadian weather, with layers and waterproof gear.
  • Tipping: 15%-20% is standard in restaurants and bars.
  • Safety: As with any major city, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Transportation

  • Toronto Transit Commission (TTC): Use the subway, streetcar, or bus to get around the city ($3 per ride, or $12.50 for a day pass).
  • Uber and Lyft: Ride-hailing services are widely available in Toronto.
  • Walking and cycling: Take advantage of Toronto’s pedestrian-friendly streets and bike lanes.

Tips

  • Buy a Presto card: This reusable transit card makes traveling on the TTC easy and convenient.
  • Take advantage of free Wi-Fi: Many cafes, restaurants, and public spaces offer complimentary internet access.
  • Be prepared for crowds: Popular attractions can get busy, so plan ahead and consider visiting during off-peak hours.

Other Things of Interest

  • Take a day trip to Niagara Falls (approximately 1.5 hours from Toronto)
  • Visit the historic Distillery District, featuring cobblestone streets and trendy bars
  • Explore the vibrant Graffiti Alley, a colorful street art destination