Day 1
So you have decided to visit Toronto. Toronto is a welcoming, accepting and culturally diverse city. Those who think Canada is all about nature have clearly never been to Toronto. As a vibrant and dynamic destination, Toronto is full of life, character, and actions. There are so many things to do in Canada’s largest city that it can be overwhelming.
I have put together a recommended 3 day itinerary for you to get the most of your time in the city and it's surrounds. This itinerary is 3 FULL days, so an extra few activities will be mentioned for extra evenings you may have.
Of course, Toronto has so much on offer that extending your trip should always be on the cards. If you're like me, you'll be falling in love with the city from the moment you get off the plane.
Day 1
After a presumably long flight, settle in for the night, and get ready for your first day action packed full of activities.
Breakfast
Take your taste buds on holiday by starting your day with breakfast at Fran’s Diner on the North West corner of College Subway station. Fran’s is a famous Toronto diner that only closes for 6 hours a year!
Activity
Walk west along College Street to University Avenue. Here you will see Queen’s Park, which is the Ontario Legislative Building.
Walk North on University Avenue through Queen’s Park to the Royal Ontario Museum. The Royal Ontario Museum has one of Canada’s largest collections of fossils and often has amazing special exhibits for the whole family to enjoy. There is so much to see, you will likely spend the rest of your morning here.
Lunch
Head to Yorkville for lunch and wander the streets of this upscale neighbourhood. I suggest trying Chabrol, Doug Penfold’s tiny Yorkville bistro.
While you're lunching, consider planning a one day road trip from Toronto for day-two of your itinerary. There are so many amazing day trips to experience the magic that surrounds the city that it is worth considering.
Activity
After head for the CN tower by Union Station and Roundhouse Park. Take in Toronto from one of the highest buildings in the world. On a good day, you can see the United States to the South.
Across from the CN tower are the Canadian train museum and Steamwhistle brewery. Also nearby is Ripley’s Aquarium. You’ll easily have enough to do for the rest of the afternoon.
Evening
Make your way to King Street West. The area is packed with amazing food options and is known as an entertainment hotspot.
Day 2
Even though there are a lot of stereotypes about Canadians, it’s actually pretty tough to paint a picture of Canada with just one brush (not that being friendly and liking plaid are a bad thing).
Breakfast
Markets are a great way to learn about the city you’re visiting. The foods and product on-sale often offer insight into the people behind the place. Toronto is no exception. There’s the classic St. Lawrence Market, which at 208 years old has been a big part of the city since nearly the beginning. There you’ll find 120 vendors, with the freshest produce, meats, baked good, and dairy products for your perusing.
Activity
head to the Art Gallery of Ontario to see the largest collection of Canadian art in the world, including many works from Canada’s famous Group of Seven. These are pieces of art that capture the Canadian landscape and way of life, and are a great way to learn about the country.
Lunch
There are many great places for lunch along Queen street west, otherwise, head back to Kensington Market for international treats. Kensington Market is an incredible neighbourhood that really reflects the diversity that makes Toronto so special.
Caribbean, Latin American, European, and Vietnamese immigrants have all left their stamp on the city, and that impact can be smelled, tasted, and enjoyed throughout Kensington Market.
Activity
Visit the Hockey Hall of Fame! There are few things more widely associated with Canada than hockey. The Hockey Hall of Fame is the absolute best place to learn about the sport and its history, all while taking on fun challenges like shooting, goaltending, and hockey trivia.
Evening
Go to the Distillery District and enjoy a meal at El Cantina or Mill Street Brewery. The Distillery District is full of artwork and historic buildings.
Day 3
Breakfast
Grab breakfast close to your accommodation. By now you should have seen little spots that have caught your eye and it's time to try them out!
Activity
Take the Queen Streetcar downtown to the old city hall. You can also see the new city hall right around the corner. Walk south on Bay Street until you get to the waterfront. Follow the harbour front trail to Fork York and experience a part of Toronto’s history.
Lunch
Try one of the great restaurants along the harbourfront. I suggest trying Loch and Quay. Absolutely amazing food.
Activity
Take the ferry from the Toronto ferry terminal to the center island. The Toronto islands have lots to offer including beaches and an amusement park and make for perfect family fun for a day in Toronto. If the weather is nice, then swim in Lake Ontario.
Evening
Spend your night indulging in some good old-fashioned axe-throwing. While 99 per cent of Canadians have probably never thrown an axe, I certainly love our woodsmen history! Head to Bad Axe Throwing, grab an axe that tickles your fancy, and throw it at a wooden target until you hit that oh-so-satisfying bullseye. You won’t find a better way to let off some steam.