Introduction
Ontario, Canada’s most populous province, offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from bustling cities to serene natural landscapes. This 5-day itinerary will guide you through the must-see destinations, ensuring you get a taste of the best that Ontario has to offer.
Day 1: Arrival in Toronto
Morning: Arrival and Check-In
- Arrival: Arrive at Toronto Pearson International Airport.
- Check-In: Check into your downtown Toronto hotel, ideally located near major attractions.
Afternoon: CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium
- CN Tower: Start your Ontario adventure with a visit to the iconic CN Tower. Take in the panoramic views from the observation deck and, if you’re brave, step onto the glass floor.
- Ripley’s Aquarium: Just a short walk away, explore Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, home to a stunning variety of marine life.
Evening: Dinner in Distillery District
- Dinner: Head to the historic Distillery District for dinner. Enjoy the cobblestone streets, unique shops, and excellent restaurants.
Day 2: Toronto Exploration
Morning: Royal Ontario Museum and Casa Loma
- Royal Ontario Museum: Spend the morning at the Royal Ontario Museum, one of the largest museums in North America, featuring exhibits on art, culture, and natural history.
- Casa Loma: Visit Casa Loma, a Gothic Revival mansion with beautiful gardens and a fascinating history.
Afternoon: St. Lawrence Market and Toronto Islands
- St. Lawrence Market: Discover local food and crafts at St. Lawrence Market, a bustling marketplace with a variety of vendors.
- Toronto Islands: Take a ferry to the Toronto Islands for a peaceful escape with parks, beaches, and stunning views of the Toronto skyline.
Evening: Entertainment District
- Dinner and Show: Enjoy dinner in Toronto’s Entertainment District, followed by a live theater performance or concert.
Day 3: Niagara Falls Day Trip
Morning: Travel to Niagara Falls
- Drive or Tour: Take a day trip to Niagara Falls, approximately 1.5 hours from Toronto.
Afternoon: Niagara Falls Attractions
- Falls View: Experience the breathtaking views of Niagara Falls. Consider taking the Hornblower boat tour for an up-close look at the falls.
- Clifton Hill: Explore Clifton Hill, known for its attractions, museums, and entertainment options.
Evening: Return to Toronto
- Drive Back: Return to Toronto in the evening, reminiscing about the day’s adventures.
Day 4: Ottawa, Ontario
Morning: Travel to Ottawa
- Train or Drive: Journey from Toronto to Ottawa, the capital city of Canada.
Afternoon: Parliament Hill and Rideau Canal
- Parliament Hill: Visit Parliament Hill, where you can tour the historic buildings and enjoy the Changing of the Guard ceremony.
- Rideau Canal: Walk or bike along the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and enjoy the scenic views.
Evening: ByWard Market
- Dinner: Explore ByWard Market, a lively district with a variety of restaurants, shops, and nightlife.
Day 5: Kingston and Thousand Islands
Morning: Travel to Kingston
- Drive: Head to Kingston, a historic city located on the shores of Lake Ontario.
Afternoon: Fort Henry and Thousand Islands Cruise
- Fort Henry: Discover Fort Henry, a National Historic Site with interactive exhibits and reenactments.
- Thousand Islands: Enjoy a boat cruise through the Thousand Islands, marveling at the scenic waterways and historic mansions.
Evening: Return to Toronto and Departure
- Drive Back: Return to Toronto for your final evening.
- Departure: Head to Toronto Pearson International Airport for your departure, concluding your 5-day Ontario adventure.
Conclusion
This 5-day itinerary provides a perfect blend of city life, natural beauty, and historical exploration in Ontario. From the vibrant streets of Toronto to the majestic Niagara Falls and the historic charm of Kingston and Ottawa, you’ll experience the best of Canada’s heartland. Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable Ontario getaway!