Below is a more detailed 3-day itinerary to explore Toronto, so you will have all the recommendations for great attractions, neighborhoods, and places to eat. Here are a few varied choices put together catering to the taste of all kinds, from spring to winter time.
Toronto Itinerary
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Day 1: Downtown Toronto – Icons and Cultural Gems
Take a day to see the icons, immerse yourself in culture, and sample the local food scene. Downtown Toronto is full of famous sights and hidden gems that give a glimpse of the city’s spirit.
Morning: Views and Landmarks
- CN Tower: Start your day with the iconic CN Tower in Toronto. Get here as early in the morning as you can so that you are not in line for a long time; if it is open take a ride on the elevator to the observation deck with a view over the city and Lake Ontario that is fantastic even all the way to Niagara Falls on a clear day. EdgeWalk is an adrenaline junkie’s dream activity, consisting of a hands-free walk along the outer edge of the tower 1,168 feet in the air. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
- The family-friendly Ripley’s Aquarium is only a few blocks away from the CN Tower, showcasing an incredible number of species of different marine life through its interactive shows. Among highlights of its attractions is the Dangerous Lagoon where you walk through a glass tunnel on a moving sidewalk while sharks, rays, and sea turtles swim beneath your feet. Allow at least an hour for real exploration.
Midday: Arts and Lunch in the Distillery District
- Cross over to the Distillery Historic District. From here, you can walk 20 minutes or take a short cab ride to the Distillery District. Artsy quaint pedestrian-only neighborhood with cobblestone streets and historic architecture-this’s just the kind of vibe that has it. This used to be a big whiskey distillery, and the art galleries, boutiques and restaurants fit in perfectly. Lunch at the Distillery District
- El Catrin for authentic Mexican cuisine-the lovely mural-decked patio is not to be avoided. Cluny Bistro for French-inspired food served within a chic and ‘grammable space. Go shopping, visit different galleries, and studios along the streets of the Distillery District.
- Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
Art in the afternoons at the AGO: one of the largest museums in North America. The AGO houses over 90,000 works of art by Canadian, Indigenous, European and contemporary artists. And the building-a work of art all unto itself, a dramatic glass and wood facade by architect Frank Gehry. Group of Seven collection of Canadian landscape art not to be missed.
Evenings: Kensington Market Discovery
- Dinner in Chinatown
Kensington Market
Founded as a way of life, Toronto’s iconic Kensington Market is known for its eclectic food scene, bohemian allure, vintage stores, street art, and many eateries. It invites you to go through its narrow streets, stopping by for snacks or coffee along the way from any of the markets’ vendors. - Dinner in Chinatown
- Busy Toronto’s Chinatown lies right next to Kensington Market. It is where you can indulge in the best Asian food in this town. Think Mother’s Dumplings for that signature dumpling experience or Swatow for Cantonese fare. Toronto’s Chinatown also boasts many late-night eateries, so you are perfect to have a leisurely dinner after a day of sightseeing.
Day 2: Nature, Science, and Toronto Islands Adventure
Day 2 is always nature, science, and a visit to the Toronto Islands: an oasis of green and calmness just a ferry ride away.
Morning: Science and History at Ontario Science Centre
- Ontario Science Centre: Begin your day by visiting the Ontario Science Centre. It is an interactivity museum that thrills for every age since it offers hands-on displays, an IMAX theatre, and live demonstrations that take you through various aspects. The significant attractions include the Rainforest where one explores ecosystems and the Space Hall with astronomy and space-related exhibits.
Lunchtime: Lunch on the Waterfront and Ferry to Toronto Islands
- Lunch at Harbourfront Centre: Reeturn downtown to Harbourfront Centre, a cultural powerhouse located on the shores of Lake Ontario. You could grab a choice of cafes and restaurants at Queen’s Quay Terminal, or something light to eat with a view at Amsterdam BrewHouse.
- Take the ferry to the Toronto Islands: Leave the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal after lunch by ferry for the Toronto Islands.These form a series of small islands connected by bridges, an oasis rolled away from the heart of the city and out into the Great Lake. You can rent a bike, or simply take a leisurely walk along beaches, gardens, and picnic areas. If you get there in summer, some time at Hanlan’s Point Beach, or Centre Island Beach, should not be missed. Afternoon: Visit Centre Island
Afternoon: Explore Centre Island
- Centreville Amusement Park (Seasonal) This is not to be missed if you have families with children. This is an old-fashioned park with a menagerie, petting zoo, picnic grounds, and then amusement park. You may spend an hour or two here as it is fun and relaxing.
- Islands to Discover Look over the nature trails and lookout points of the island to gain a more peaceful view of things. Ward’s Island presents lovely views of the Toronto skyline with a more residential atmosphere and charming cottages and gardens to boot.
Dinner Evening Dinner Back in the City.
Ferry from City Centre back to Downtown.
Ferry back to the mainland. Dinner in downtown Toronto. Try Canoe, an upscale restaurant that whips out the best in Canadian cuisine on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower. Book ahead of time and indulge in dishes inspired by the great outdoors of Canada, including the finest seafood, game, and local produce.
Day 3: Shopping, Royal Attractions and Neighborhoods
Spend your last day in Toronto exploring some of the different neighborhoods, historical sites and shopping districts.
AM: Royal Ontario Museum ROM
- Royal Ontario Museum: Begin your day with a visit to the Royal Ontario Museum, one of the largest and most diverse museums in Canada. The ROM is perhaps most famous for its world-class dinosaur collection, exceptional Asian galleries, and ancient civilization galleries. More architecture that also draws attention; this Glass Pavilion – officially known as the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal – is an addition to the historic building and a good example of Toronto landmarks. Take at least two hours over its precious collections.
Midday: Yorkville and Lunch
- Neighborhood of Yorkville Take a short walk from the museum a few blocks to the upscale Yorkville district. One of the richest areas in Toronto, you will be spoiled for high-end boutiques, designer stores, and galleries. Beautiful to browse around and spend some quality time shopping or gorging over a decadent lunch.
- Lunch in Yorkville: Dine at Sassafraz, for upscale fare in contemporary Canadian cuisine, or grab a budget-friendly bite at the laid-back pub Hemingway’s, which also features a rooftop patio. Satisfy your sweet tooth-itis at Nadege Patisserie for the flakiest pastries and prettiest macarons.
Afternoon: Shopping and Sightseeing along Queen Street West
- Queen Street West Queen Street West, late afternoon: This is a very fashionable shopping district with independent boutiques and vintage shops, and art galleries. Generally, you would expect this neighborhood to be quite hip and bohemian; you’ll enjoy great street art and quirky little cafes. You can’t miss Graffiti Alley, it’s small in size but full of color and street art. Great photo opportunity.
- Trinity Bellwoods Park Of course, that would only be true if Queen West wasn’t crowded with tourists and Trinity Bellwoods Park was mainly frequented by locals who pass time there resting, picnicking, and playing outdoor games. It’s a good place to waste some off-the-clock time; it’s especially thronged on sunny days.
Evening: Dinner and Entertainment in the Entertainment District
- Dinner in the Entertainment District By sundown, step into the Entertainment District, where the action is at for an amazing night out on the town and for exceptional dining. Located in the Bisha Hotel on the 44th floor overlooking the CN Tower and Lake Ontario, Kost incorporates flavors of the Baja Peninsula into its menu. Alternately, modern flair takes to the Eastern Mediterranean food at Byblos. Entertainment Venues
- Catch a show at one of the best theatres and music venues in Toronto. Options include the Princess of Wales Theatre, or Roy Thomson Hall for a performance by the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Comedy shows at Second City Toronto shine a light on local humor and talent if you’re in the mood for something a little more low-key.
More Toronto Tips
- Public Transport: Toronto has clean system of subways, streetcars, and buses. You need not take your car for commute there. All you have to do is buy a day/weekend pass for unlimited travel for as many lengths you want to travel.
- Buy a Toronto CityPass, which can save you money on attractions such as CN Tower, ROM, and Ripley’s Aquarium if you already have some several attraction tickets you will use.
- Weather: The summers in Toronto are really hot, ideal for outdoor activities, while the winter might be relatively cold with a good possibility of snowfall. Do layer up especially during your winters; do check the weather updates beforehand for possibilities of snowstorms.
- This 3-day itinerary combines the best of Toronto, which will leave you breathless with its urban landmarks, beautiful islands, culturally rich venues, and exciting culinary finds. Have fun, Toronto!
