Toronto is a hidden gem that deserves more recognition. With its proximity to a major international airport and a short drive from the iconic Niagara Falls, the city is easily accessible no matter where you’re traveling from. I visited Toronto during Canada Day weekend on my way to Iceland. (Be sure to check out my Iceland itinerary for some travel inspiration!) Bursting with energy, incredible cuisine, and an efficient public transit system, Toronto offers an unforgettable experience.

Getting Around

I found public transportation to be easy to navigate, especially for my first time visiting. I was hesitant about getting from the airport to Union Station though it was rather easy based on the signs which are clearly marked.

Once you clear Customs, follow the sign titled “Train to City”. I took the elevator upstairs and followed the signs that led me to a platform. I followed the sign, “To the City” and even asked an airport attendant if I was on the right platform (going to the city) as the other platform will take you back to the airport. The quick ride dropped me off at the train station where I boarded the Union Express and took it through the end of the line, arriving at Union Station (downtown). Tickets can be purchased with the tap of your smartphone (if you have your credit card linked through the Wallet app) or online. 

More information on Union Express and ticketing can be found here. 

Union Station is a great place to catch a taxi or hop on another train if you are heading outside Toronto. If you have been to New York City, I would say it is a similar, smaller version of Grand Central Station.

Where to Stay

I stayed with a friend who lives in Toronto, though there are numerous hotels available near Union Station. The location around Union Station was perfect, with easy access to transit, a short 10-minute walk to the CN Tower, and just a 15-minute stroll to the waterfront.

Check out these hotels:

InterContinental Toronto Centre by IHG

Fairmont Royal York Hotel

The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto

Day 1

Walk or take the metro to the Baldwin Steps, a stunning viewpoint of the CN tower and the city skyline. While the climb up involves numerous steps, the view at the top makes it all worthwhile.

Visit Casa Loma

Casa Loma, a beautiful landmark atop a hill overlooking Toronto, dates back to 1911 and is rumored to be haunted by the wife of the man who resided there, Sir Henry Pellatt. Tickets are required for entry, though you can walk around the exterior for free and wander through the neighborhood to see beautiful, historic homes. Ticket information and pricing can be found here. 

Visit the Royal Ontario Museum.

This museum reminded me of the Natural History Museum in London. The museum was free to enter as I was visiting on Canada Day, though tickets are usually required. Click here to view information on tickets.

Go on the Philosophers walk at St. George Campus at University of Toronto. The University is next to the Museum, and the walk is a pretty walk through a well shaded and scenic path. The University was founded in 1827 and the building lives to show the history of the school. 

Explore the CN tower and the Toronto Railway Museum

Tickets are required for both, though you can walk around the grassy area outside the museum and tower for free. 

Tickets to CN Tower: https://www.cntower.ca/. There is a restaurant at the top of the CN tower.

Toronto Railway Museum: https://torontorailwaymuseum.com/

Walk around ChinaTown.

I found a grocery store that sold Taiyaki and grabbed one as we walked around the neighborhood, exploring various thrift stores, gift shops, and food shops! 

Day 2

Visit the Toronto Islands.

The Toronto Islands are made up of three primary islands: Centre Island, Ward’s Island, and Hanlan’s Point. The ferry from the Toronto terminal will take you to each island, though the ferry to Centre Island runs most often as you will find the most to do such as an amusement park, fountains, gardens, beaches, and many picnic areas. There is a large bike rental on Centre Island that many people chose to rent bikes and bike end-to end or just around the island. The ferry dropped us off at Centre Island and we walked off the ferry and went to the left, following the path until we reached the large fountain and bike rental.

We veered to the left towards Algonquin Island, stopping along the way for photos as we stumbled upon photo ops. We caught the ferry back from Ward’s Island; the ferry from Ward’s island doesn’t run as often so be sure to check the timetable.

Ferry tickets can be purchased online here or at the ferry terminal. 

Ferry schedule: https://www.torontoisland.com/ferry.php#google_vignette

Visit the Distillery District

The Distillery District is home to restaurants, galleries, clothing, jewelry, and more. No cars are allowed through the quaint cobblestone streets, preserving the history and charm. In December, the Toronto Christmas markets take over.

Visit St. Lawrence Market

St. Lawrence Market is a large food hall in the heart of the city. I really enjoyed the Old Town area as a lot of the buildings reminded me of New York with the brick buildings, funky architecture, and trendy neighborhood feel.

Inside the market, you’ll find two floors brimming with an incredible variety of offerings, including bakeries, butcher shops, fresh produce, sandwiches, pizza, tacos, seafood, and much more. Be sure to check out Stack’d Deli Kitchen as the sandwiches there are amazing!

Note: while there is seating outside and inside, the seating overall is limited.

Kensington Market

Kennsington Market delivers on a cultural experience. Walking through the streets you will see various food vendor, shops, performers, hand-made goods, and more. Come to the market hungry as you can try food from most cuisines. I also enjoyed walking through vintage stores and other quirky, one of a kind shops. The market is between Dundas Street West and College Street, west of Spadina Avenue.

Don’t miss the chance to grab lunch at Gus Tacos!

Have More Time? 

Consider a Day Trip

Day Trip to Niagara Falls and stop at Niagara-on-the-Lake. Niagara-on-the-Lake is a picturesque small town nestled along the route to Niagara Falls. If you’re driving to the Falls, taking some time to visit this charming destination is highly recommended. Its quaint streets and serene ambiance make it the perfect addition to your day trip.

Attend A Blue Jays Game at Rogers Centre.

One thing I noticed was how dedicated Blue Jays fans really are! View the game schedule here. 

Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Ripley’s Aquarium is conveniently located near other attractions. Fun rainy day or afternoon activity. Tickets: https://www.ripleys.com/attractions/ripleys-aquarium-of-canada