Toronto, Canada 4 Day Itinerary

Toronto Itinerary: 4 Days of Exploration

Day 1: Downtown Delights

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Start at Union Station, the city’s main transportation hub.
  • Take a short walk to St. Lawrence Market, one of Canada’s oldest markets, for a breakfast treat.

Afternoon

  • Visit the iconic CN Tower ( tickets from $36 CAD) for panoramic views of the city.
  • Explore the nearby Brookfield Place, an upscale shopping center with a beautiful atrium.

Evening

  • Head to Chinatown for dinner at Mother’s Dumplings, a local favorite.
  • End the night with a stroll through vibrant Kensington Market, known for its eclectic shops and street art.

Accommodation Suggestion

  • Stay at Hotel Victoria, a historic hotel in the heart of downtown (from $150 CAD/night).

Transportation

  • Use the TTC Streetcar (504 King route) to get around downtown.
  • Buy a Presto Card for convenient travel on public transit.

Tips & Insights

  • Be prepared for variable weather; pack layers and waterproof gear.
  • Take advantage of Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods and explore beyond downtown.

Day 2: Art, Culture, and Waterfront Wonders

Morning

  • Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario (tickets from $16 CAD) to explore Canadian and international art.
  • Stop by Graffiti Alley, a vibrant outdoor art space.

Afternoon

  • Take a stroll along the revitalized Waterfront Trail, offering beautiful lake views.
  • Visit the Harbourfront Centre, a hub for cultural and artistic events.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at The Chase, a contemporary Canadian restaurant in the Financial District.
  • Catch a show or concert at the historic Massey Hall.

Accommodation Suggestion

  • Consider staying in the Entertainment District at Hyatt Regency Toronto (from $180 CAD/night).

Transportation

  • Use the TTC Subway (Line 1) to travel between downtown and waterfront areas.
  • Take a scenic ferry ride to the Toronto Islands for additional waterfront views.

Tips & Insights

  • Purchase tickets in advance for popular attractions and events.
  • Explore Toronto’s many parks and green spaces, such as High Park, for a peaceful escape.

Day 3: History, Science, and Nature

Morning

  • Visit the Royal Ontario Museum (tickets from $20 CAD) to explore natural history and world cultures.
  • Stop by Queen’s Park, home to the Ontario Legislative Building and beautiful gardens.

Afternoon

  • Head to the Ontario Science Centre (tickets from $22 CAD) for interactive exhibits and experiments.
  • Visit the historic Casa Loma, a majestic castle with opulent decor.

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at La Carnita, a lively Mexican restaurant in Little Italy.
  • Explore the trendy shops and cafes on College Street.

Accommodation Suggestion

  • Stay in the Annex neighborhood at The Madison Manor Boutique Hotel (from $120 CAD/night).

Transportation

  • Use the TTC Subway (Line 2) to travel between midtown and downtown areas.
  • Take a short taxi or ride-hail trip to reach destinations not serviced by public transit.

Tips & Insights

  • Consider purchasing a Toronto CityPASS for discounted admission to multiple attractions.
  • Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.

Day 4: Foodie Heaven and Outdoor Adventures

Morning

  • Visit the historic St. Lawrence Market again, this time for lunch at one of its many food stalls.
  • Explore the nearby Distillery District, a charming area with cobblestone streets and trendy boutiques.

Afternoon

  • Take a day trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake, visiting Niagara Falls (tickets from $25 CAD) and enjoying wine country scenery.
  • Alternatively, visit High Park, featuring walking trails, gardens, and the famous cherry blossom trees (seasonal).

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at Pai Northern Thai Kitchen, a highly-recommended restaurant in Chinatown.
  • End the night with a scenic walk along the waterfront or a relaxing evening stroll through a Toronto neighborhood.

Accommodation Suggestion

  • Return to your chosen accommodation from previous nights or explore other options, such as an Airbnb in a trendy neighborhood.

Transportation

  • Book a guided tour or use Greyhound Canada for transportation to Niagara-on-the-Lake (from $20 CAD/return).
  • Use public transit or a ride-hail service to get around the city on your last day.

Tips & Insights

  • Plan ahead and book popular restaurants and attractions in advance.
  • Take time to appreciate the diversity and multiculturalism that makes Toronto so special.

Additional Tips and Essentials

  • Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)
  • Language: English, with many residents speaking multiple languages
  • Safety: Generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and belongings
  • Tipping: 15-20% in restaurants and bars; $1-2 per bag for hotel porters
  • Power Adapters: Type A and B (same as the US)

Enjoy your Toronto adventure!