Welcome to the ultimate Ontario travel guide, where glittering urban landscapes meet the roar of the world’s most famous waterfall, and rich Canadian history blends seamlessly with modern life. This guide outlines incredible experiences for a memorable trip across Canada’s most populous province, with a 7‑day Ontario itinerary hitting Toronto, Niagara Falls, and Ottawa. We will take you through the vibrant metropolis of Toronto, the breathtaking spectacle of Niagara Falls, and the stately capital city of Ottawa. Get ready to dive into a trip that blends big-city thrills with iconic natural beauty and a touch of national pride! 🍁🏙️🌊

Ontario travel guide: The Toronto skylne as seen from the water

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Your Ontario Itinerary: A 7-Day Snapshot

This Ontario travel guide focuses on giving you ample time to explore the vibrant highlights of Toronto, the breathtaking spectacle of Niagara Falls, and the stately charm of Ottawa. Here’s a quick overview of how you can maximize your journey:

Ontario's Urban Heart & Natural Wonder: Toronto & Niagara Falls

Days 1-2: Toronto Exploration

  • Dive into Canada’s largest city, from the heights of the CN Tower to the unique charm of Kensington Market. Looking for a place to stay in Toronto? Find the best hotel deals in Toronto.

Days 3-4: Niagara Falls & Wine Country

Canada's Capital City: Ottawa Immersion

  • Days 5-7: Ottawa Discoveries. Immerse yourself in Canadian history on Parliament Hill, explore the bustling ByWard Market, and discover the city’s impressive museums. Planning a stay in Ottawa? Compare hotel options for your Ottawa stay.

To ensure you fully experience the top attractions in Toronto, Niagara Falls, and Ottawa, this 7-day Ontario roadmap offers ample exploration time.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a perfectly mapped 7-day itinerary, insider tips, and all the resources to navigate these incredible cities with ease, ensuring your Ontario adventure is seamless and unforgettable.

Table of Contents

TORONTO in capital letters, lit up in larger than life in blue, orange, white and red with a red maple leaf

Must-See Toronto Attractions: CN Tower & Kensington Market 🇨🇦

Prepare to be captivated by Ontario’s diverse and unforgettable landmarks. Whether you’re seeking the best Toronto itinerary for families or a solo backpacking adventure, this guide has you covered.

  • CN Tower, Toronto 🏙️:

    Discover the iconic CN Tower, Toronto’s must-visit landmark and an unmistakable icon of its skyline. Ascend to its observation decks for unparalleled panoramic Toronto city views of the city, Lake Ontario, and beyond. For the truly brave, try the thrilling EdgeWalk, offering a breathtaking perspective on this vibrant metropolis and a unique Toronto adventure.

  • Niagara Falls 🌊:

    Prepare to be awestruck by Canada’s majestic Niagara Falls. If you’re searching for a Niagara Falls travel guide from Toronto, start your day-trip here. The sheer power and beauty of Niagara Falls Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side are mesmerizing. Experience it up close on the Hornblower Niagara Cruises boat tour, journey behind the falls with Journey Behind the Falls experience, or simply admire from various Niagara Falls viewing platforms.

Exploring Ottoman Charm: Parliament Hill and Rideau Canal

  • Parliament Hill, Ottawa 🏛️:

    Visit Parliament Hill, Ottawa, the majestic seat of Canada’s federal government and a stunning Gothic Revival complex perched high above the Ottawa River. Take a free guided tour to explore its historic halls, admire the iconic Peace Tower, and witness the popular Changing of the Guard ceremony in Ottawa during summer. It’s a powerful symbol of Canadian democracy and a top Ottawa historical landmark.

  • Rideau Canal, Ottawa 🛶❄️:

    A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Rideau Canal is a historic waterway that winds through Ottawa. In summer, you can cruise or paddle along its tranquil waters. In winter, it transforms into the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink, offering a unique Canadian experience.

  • Casa Loma, Toronto 🏰:

    A whimsical and grand Gothic Revival style mansion, Casa Loma offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century Toronto extravagance. Explore its opulent rooms, secret passages, and beautiful gardens. It’s a true urban castle with a compelling story.

  • National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa 🖼️:

    Explore the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa, an architectural marvel housing an impressive collection of Canadian and international art. This top Ottawa art museum is a true cultural treasure in the nation’s capital, perfect for art enthusiasts.

A bird's eye view of Niagara Falls with a tourist boat approaching the falls
View of the Toronton Skyline from the water with the CN Tower standing tall
View of the National Gallery through very high windows

A Taste of Ontario: Culinary Delights 🍽️🍁

From multicultural street food to classic Canadian treats, your taste buds are in for a treat!

Must-Try Restaurants & Eateries 🤤

  • St. Lawrence Market, Toronto 🥕🧀: Indulge at St. Lawrence Market, Toronto, a true food lover’s paradise and consistently ranked among the world’s best historic public markets. Grab a famous peameal bacon sandwich at Carousel Bakery, sample artisanal Canadian cheeses, fresh local produce, and diverse Toronto street food. It’s a quintessential Toronto culinary institution.
  • ByWard Market, Ottawa 🥖🍓: One of Canada’s oldest and largest public markets, ByWard Market is a lively hub of farmers’ stalls, artisanal food vendors, restaurants, and boutiques. Grab a Beavertail (classic Canadian fried dough pastry), sample local maple products, and enjoy the bustling energy.
  • Khao San Road, Toronto 🍜: “Experience authentic Thai street food at Khao San Road, a highly-rated spot in downtown Toronto known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious, flavorful dishes. A must-try for lovers of international cuisine..
  • The Château Laurier’s Zoé’s Lounge, Ottawa 🥂: Located in Ottawa’s iconic Fairmont hotel, Zoé’s offers a luxurious and elegant setting for cocktails or a classic afternoon tea. It’s a beautiful spot to enjoy a drink in a historic ambiance, especially if you appreciate grand hotel bars.
Ontario Travel Guide: Kensington Market in Toronto
The Fairmont Château Laurier's Zoe's Lounge
View of the Kensington Market

Ontario's Fabric: Cities & Neighborhoods to Explore 🚶‍♀️🏘️

Each city on this itinerary offers distinct districts and a unique cultural personality.

  • Toronto, Ontario: Canada’s largest city and a truly multicultural hub.
    • Downtown Core: Downtown Toronto’s core is home to the iconic CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and a vibrant financial district, serving as a hub for Toronto city exploration.
    • Kensington Market: A bohemian, quirky neighborhood with vintage shops, street art, and diverse eateries.
    • Distillery District: A historic pedestrian-only village with Victorian-era industrial architecture, now home to boutiques, galleries, and unique restaurants.
    • Queen Street West: Trendy, artistic, and great for fashion, music venues, and cafes.
  • Ottawa, Ontario: The nation’s capital, known for its green spaces, museums, and historic architecture.
    • Parliament Hill: The political heart, surrounded by scenic parks and the Rideau Canal.
    • ByWard Market: A bustling area for food, shopping, and nightlife.

    • Gatineau (Quebec): Gatineau, Quebec, just across the Ottawa River, offers excellent museums and beautiful parks, providing a convenient cross-province experience near Ottawa.

The famous Kensington Market in Toronto
Close up of the parliament building in Ottawa
The famous Kensington Market in Toronto

Resting Your Head: Hotels for Your Ontario Adventure 😴🏨

Discover the best Ontario accommodation options, from bustling urban centers to hotels with Niagara Falls views. These cities offer a range of comfortable and luxurious stays for every traveler.

TORONTO

Budget-Friendly 💰

Mid-Range Comfort 🛋️

Luxury Indulgence 💎

NIAGARA FALLS

Budget-Friendly 💰

Mid-Range Comfort 🛋️

Luxury Indulgence 💎

OTTAWA

Budget-Friendly 💰

Mid-Range Comfort 🛋️

Luxury Indulgence 💎

Planning to explore more of Eastern Canada? Don’t miss our Quebec Travel Guide covering Montreal and Quebec City.

✈️ Ready to plan your Ontario adventure?
Find cheap flights to Ontario and book your perfect Ontario hotel — whether you’re staying in Toronto, Niagara Falls, or Ottawa.
Need help packing? Visit our Travel Gear Hub for expert-tested gear to make your trip smooth, safe, and comfortable. 🎒

The luxurious Fairmont Chateau Laurier in Ottawa
The lobby of the Doubletree Fallsview Hotel in Niagara Falls
The Parkdale Hostelleri is a cozy and comfortable hostel in the heart of Toronto

Navigating Your Way: Getting Around Ontario 🚆🚌🚗

Exploring this region is relatively straightforward, with excellent transportation links.

  • VIA Rail Canada 🚆:
    For train travel between Toronto and Ottawa, VIA Rail Canada is an excellent choice. It offers comfortable, scenic train journeys, allowing you to relax and enjoy the landscape without the stress of driving or airport security, making it ideal for Ontario intercity transport.

  • Intercity Buses (e.g., Greyhound, Megabus) 🚌: A budget-friendly option for travel between Toronto, Niagara Falls, and Ottawa. Buses are frequent and often connect directly to downtown terminals.
  • Driving 🚗: If you prefer flexibility, renting a car in Ontario is a good option, especially for the Toronto to Niagara Falls drive and exploring areas outside city centers like the Niagara wine region tours.
  • Public Transit (within cities) 🚇:
    • Within Toronto, the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) operates a comprehensive Toronto subway, streetcar, and bus network. For easy Toronto public transit, use a PRESTO card or contactless payment options.
  • Walking 🚶‍♀️: Essential for exploring charming historic districts like the Distillery District in Toronto, or Parliament Hill and ByWard Market in Ottawa. Wear comfortable shoes, as there will be plenty of walking!

🗺️ Use this interactive map to explore the best sights, hotels, and neighborhoods in Toronto, Niagara Falls, and Ottawa — all featured in this Ontario Travel Guide.

Green Escapes & Serene Spaces: Finding Your Calm 🌳💦

Even in bustling cities, Ontario offers beautiful parks and tranquil spots for relaxation.

  • High Park, Toronto 🌲: Discover High Park, Toronto’s largest urban park, offering vast green spaces, extensive Toronto walking trails, a zoo, and beautiful gardens. It’s a fantastic Toronto urban escape for picnics, leisurely strolls, or simply enjoying nature in the city.
  • Gatineau Park, Ottawa (Quebec) 🍁: Gatineau Park, just a short drive from Ottawa into Quebec, is a vast natural park offering beautiful hiking trails, scenic cycling paths, lakes for swimming, and stunning fall foliage views near Ottawa. It’s a true natural escape easily accessible from Canada’s capital.
  • Toronto Islands, Toronto ⛵: A short ferry ride from downtown, the Toronto Islands offer car-free tranquility, stunning skyline views, beaches, and recreational activities. It’s a wonderful escape from the city bustle, especially on a sunny day.
A roundabout with a red maple leaf in flowers in High Park, Toronto

Ontario's Larder: Characteristic Dishes You'll Crave 🇨🇦🍴

Beyond specific restaurants, Canada’s culinary scene offers delicious, hearty, and often maple-infused delights that you’ll find throughout Ontario.

  • Poutine 🍟🧀 gravy: While originating in Quebec, Poutine (fries, cheese curds, and gravy) is a beloved Canadian comfort food you’ll find widely available across Ontario. Many delicious variations exist, but the classic is a must-try Canadian dish.
  • Maple Syrup Products 🍁: Embrace Canada’s national sweetener, authentic maple syrup products! From maple-glazed salmon to maple cookies, and especially fresh Ontario maple products in spring, look for delicious ways to enjoy this sweet treat throughout your journey.
  • Beavertails 🍩: Indulge in Beavertails, a classic Canadian fried dough treat! This flat, fried dough, shaped like a beaver’s tail, is typically topped with cinnamon sugar, but also available with popular options like Nutella or bananas. Find this delicious Canadian street food from vendors, especially in Ottawa’s ByWard Market.
  • Peameal Bacon Sandwich (Toronto) 🥓: Don’t miss the iconic Toronto Peameal Bacon Sandwich! This hearty sandwich consists of thinly sliced, lean cured pork loin rolled in cornmeal, typically served on a bun with mustard. Find the authentic experience at Toronto’s St. Lawrence Market.
Canada is famous for its maple syrup, the lovely sweet goodness
The famous Peameal bacon, lettuce and tomatoes burger
The beavertail pastry Canada is famous for

Whispers of Local Secrets: Ontario's Hidden Gems ✨🤫

Beyond the main attractions, these cities hold charming lesser-known spots waiting for you.

  • Graffiti Alley (Rush Lane), Toronto 🎨: Graffiti Alley (Rush Lane), a vibrant, ever-changing outdoor art gallery in downtown Toronto, is completely covered in incredible Toronto street art and murals. It’s a fantastic spot for urban photography and a truly unique Toronto hidden gem for urban exploration.
  • Toronto’s PATH System 🚶‍♀️: Explore Toronto’s PATH System, a vast underground pedestrian walkway connecting downtown Toronto’s office towers, subway stations, and major attractions. This literal Toronto hidden gem is especially useful in winter or on rainy days, offering convenient underground shopping and dining in Toronto.
Graffiti Alley is a famous alley where graffiti artists have taken over and decorated the streets with their incredible artwork
The PATH underground city of Toronto with walkways and shopping malls
Graffiti Alley is a famous alley where graffiti artists have taken over and decorated the streets with their incredible artwork

A Brief History of Ontario 📜

The history of Ontario is largely defined by the presence of Indigenous peoples, British colonization, and its role as the economic and political heart of Canada. The lands around the Great Lakes were home to various Indigenous nations for millennia before European arrival.

  • British Influence: Following the British conquest of New France in 1759, British loyalists settled in what would become Upper Canada (now Ontario). This period led to a significant British influence on Ontario’s culture, language, and institutions, shaping the province’s identity.
  • Establishment of Ottawa: In 1857, Queen Victoria designated Ottawa as the capital of Canada, primarily due to its strategic location on the border of English-speaking Upper Canada and French-speaking Lower Canada. This solidified its future as the nation’s capital city and a key Ontario political center.
  • Growth of Toronto: Toronto, originally known as York, grew rapidly as a major economic and cultural hub, becoming the capital of Upper Canada and eventually the largest city in the country.

Today, Ontario stands as a vibrant testament to this layered past, a place where diverse cultures thrive, and history intertwines with modern progress.

A view of Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada's capital

Did You Know? 5 Fascinating Facts About Ontario 🤯

  • Toronto is a City of Underground Connections: Downtown Toronto is home to The PATH, the largest underground pedestrian walkway in North America, spanning over 30 kilometers (19 miles). This unique Toronto landmark offers convenient connections. 🚶‍♀️🚇
  • Ottawa’s Rideau Canal is a UNESCO World Heritage Site: In winter, it transforms into the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink, stretching 7.8 kilometers (4.8 miles). ⛸️
  • Niagara Falls Freezes (Sometimes!): While the immense volume of water rarely completely freezes solid, parts of Niagara Falls, especially the mist and spray, can freeze into spectacular winter ice formations during extremely cold Ontario winters. ❄️
  • Toronto is nicknamed “The 6ix”: Popularized by rapper Drake, this refers to the six former municipalities that merged to form the current city of Toronto.
  • Ontario has over 250,000 lakes: This means about one-fifth of the world’s freshwater is found in Ontario, making it a paradise for water activities. 🛶

Planning to explore more of Eastern Canada? Don’t miss our Quebec Travel Guide covering Montreal and Quebec City.

What to Pack: Essential Gear for Ontario Travel 🎒📸

To make your Ontario adventure truly comfortable and stress-free, here’s a comprehensive checklist of essential gear you won’t want to leave home without:

 

🧳 NOMATIC Navigator Backpack 15L This sleek, expandable daypack goes from 15L to 21L — perfect for city sightseeing or carry-on essentials. Adapt to any adventure – get your NOMATIC backpack here!


🔋 ANKER PowerCore Slim 10000 Compact yet powerful, the Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 fits in your pocket while offering enough juice to charge your phone twice. Stay charged on the go – pick up your PowerCore Slim today!


🎧 SOUNDCORE by Anker Life P3 Earbuds The Soundcore Life P3 earbuds offer active noise cancellation, 50 hours of playtime with the charging case, and punchy bass — all at a travel-friendly price. Upgrade your travel playlist – get these earbuds now!

🎒 4MONSTER Lightweight Foldable Daypack This 24L water-resistant daypack folds into a pouch the size of your hand — perfect for spontaneous hikes, beach days, or airport shopping sprees. Grab yours now for effortless adventures!

🌍 EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter Cover 150+ countries with just one plug. The EPICKA adapter has USB-A and USB-C ports, built-in fuses, and surge protection. Stay powered up wherever you go – get your adapter today!


🧼 BAGSMART Hanging Toiletry Bag This compact toiletry kit is a game-changer for organized travel. Keep your essentials neat and accessible – shop this bag!


🛂 TRAVELAMBO RFID-Blocking Wallet Protect your credit cards from wireless theft with this ultra-slim RFID wallet. Secure your peace of mind – get your RFID wallet here!


💤 MLVOC Memory Foam Travel Pillow
Say goodbye to stiff necks and airplane naps gone wrong. Ensure comfortable rest on your next journey – buy this pillow!


⚖️ ETEKCITY Digital Luggage Scale
Avoid those nasty overweight baggage fees. This portable scale clips to your suitcase handle and gives you a fast, accurate weight reading up to 110 lbs. Travel stress-free – add this scale to your cart!

🚪 ADDALOCK Portable Door Lock
Solo travelers and digital nomads love this: Addalock adds a second lock to your hotel, Airbnb, or hostel door — no tools needed. Enhance your travel safety – secure your Addalock today!


🧳 BAGAIL Compression Packing Cubes
Maximize your carry-on space and stay ultra-organized. These packing cubes compress bulky clothes, fit perfectly into any suitcase, and keep your outfits neat and separated. Pack smarter, not harder – get your packing cubes now!


🔌 TESSAN Travel Power Strip
Charge all your devices with one compact strip. With 3 AC outlets and 3 USB ports, this lightweight hub powers everything from your phone to your laptop. Never run out of power on the go – grab this travel strip!

ETEKCITY Digital Luggage Scale
MLVOC Memoery Foam Travel Pillow
4Monster Lightweight Foldable Daypack

FAQ Section

Q1: What's the best time to visit Toronto, Niagara Falls and Ottawa?

A1: Summer (June-August) is ideal for warm weather, vibrant festivals, and all attractions being open, including prime Niagara Falls boat tours. Early Fall (September-October) offers beautiful fall foliage, pleasant temperatures, and fewer crowds, making it arguably the best time. Winter (December-February) is magical for skating on the Rideau Canal, but expect cold temperatures.

A2: For Toronto-Ottawa, VIA Rail Canada offers comfortable train travel. Intercity buses like Greyhound and Megabus are budget-friendly options connecting all three cities. Renting a car provides the most flexibility, especially for the Toronto-Niagara Falls route and exploring the Niagara wine region.

A3: Yes, absolutely! Toronto boasts the comprehensive TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) with subways, streetcars, and buses. Ottawa also has a good public transit system (OC Transpo) including the O-Train. Both are excellent for navigating the cities efficiently.

A4: To truly feel the power, take the Hornblower Niagara Cruises boat tour, which gets you right into the mist. For unique perspectives, try the Journey Behind the Falls or enjoy panoramic views from various observation decks. A scenic helicopter tour offers an unforgettable bird’s-eye view.

A5: The currency in Ontario (and all of Canada) is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Tipping is customary for services like restaurants, bars, taxis, and hairdressers, typically ranging from 15-20% of the bill.

A6: Yes, if you have an unlocked phone, you can purchase a local SIM card (from providers like Rogers, Bell, Telus) or an eSIM plan. Alternatively, check with your home mobile provider about international roaming packages to avoid high charges.

A7: Canadians are generally known for being polite and diverse. Politeness (saying ‘please,’ ‘thank you,’ ‘sorry’) is highly valued. Public displays of affection are common but usually discreet. Respect for personal space is also typical. Be aware of varying provincial laws on alcohol and cannabis.

A8: In Toronto, a peameal bacon sandwich from St. Lawrence Market is a must. In Ottawa, grab a Beavertail from ByWard Market. And no trip to Ontario is complete without trying poutine (fries, cheese curds, gravy), a beloved Canadian comfort food found almost everywhere.

The Toronto skyline seen from the water, with the lights of the city reflected in the water

So, are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Ontario? This adventure promises a vibrant mix of history, urban excitement, and natural beauty that will create memories to last a lifetime. Get planning, and prepare to be charmed! 🇨🇦❤️

Ready to plan your next road trip in Ontario like the best of them?

✨ Get My Free Ontario Travel Planning Guide!

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