The area stretching from Toronto to Niagara Falls is a fantastic blend of city life and nature, perfect for a vacation. It’s this unique mix that makes the region so captivating. Planning a week-long trip to see as much as possible can be challenging, though, so I’m sharing our itinerary from our journey. Hopefully, this will simplify your own planning process and inspire a memorable trip.
Day 1 kicks off with arriving at Toronto International Airport, hopping into a cab, and heading to your downtown hotel. For us, it was the Shangri-La, about ten minutes from the iconic CN Tower. We had dinner at Joso’s, renowned for its seafood, especially the Octopus Salad.
The next day, after breakfast at the hotel, embark on a graffiti tour organized by Tour Guys, offering a glimpse of Toronto’s vibrant street art, or opt for a visit to St Lawrence Market. For lunch, head to Seven Lives, famous for its fish tacos, at Kensington Avenue.
Spend some time strolling downtown before watching the sunset from the CN Tower, providing breathtaking views of the city. Dinner was at Byblos, a favorite for its Eastern Mediterranean dishes.
The next morning, after another hotel breakfast, pick up a rental car and drive towards Niagara Falls via Queen Elizabeth Way. A thrilling helicopter tour over the falls with Niagara Helicopters follows. Grab lunch at the Table Rock Welcome Centre, then explore the Journey Behind The Falls and the Skylon Tower.
In the evening, drive to Niagara-on-the-Lake and check into your hotel, like 124 On Queen Street. Dine at Treadwell, right next door, known for its local farm-to-table approach.
On your next day, enjoy breakfast in your hotel room before exploring Niagara-on-the-Lake on foot, including a stop at the Niagara Bakery for an Ontario butter tart. Later, take a charming horse and carriage tour around town.
Have lunch at the Peller Estate Winery Restaurant, pairing delicious dishes with local wines. Afterward, explore the winery’s estate tour and relax. Dinner is at Masaki Sushi, known for its fresh Japanese cuisine.
On subsequent days, keep exploring the vineyards like Inniskillin for wine tours, and enjoy more culinary delights at local favorites like Backhouse.
Eventually, head back to Toronto for your final nights. Stay at Delta Toronto, enjoy the Distillery District, and explore Downtown Toronto and the Harbourfront. Don’t miss Casa Loma, Rodney’s Oyster House for lunch, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and fun at Snakes & Lattes.
End your trip with a visit to Chinatown for a meal at places like the Dumpling House. Your time in this region concludes with either a final night in Toronto or heading back home, with memories of one incredible trip.