Toronto-3-day-itinerary

Day 1: Explore Downtown Toronto

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day at the iconic CN Tower, a 553-meter-tall observation tower with stunning views of the city. Take in the panoramic views from the Glass Floor or enjoy a thrilling walk on the EdgeWalk (book tickets in advance for this one).
  • 11:00 AM: Head to the nearby Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada to see an incredible array of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.

Lunch

  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at St. Lawrence Market, a historic market featuring artisanal food vendors, bakeries, and specialty shops. Try the famous peameal bacon sandwich from The Carousel Bakery or some delicious pierogies from Pierogi Wawa.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Visit the nearby Graffiti Alley, a vibrant street art laneway featuring works by local artists.
  • 4:00 PM: Take a stroll through the trendy Distillery District, a historic area turned shopping and entertainment hub. Pop into some of the unique boutiques, galleries, or enjoy a coffee at one of the many cafes.

Dinner

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Pai Northern Thai Kitchen, a highly-recommended restaurant serving authentic northern Thai cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Accommodation

  • Stay at: The Shangri-La Hotel Toronto, a luxurious hotel with modern rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center. Book a room with a city view for the best experience!

Day 2: Discover Art and Culture

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), one of Canada’s premier art museums. Explore the vast collection featuring Canadian, European, and African art.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at The AGO’s Cafe, which serves a variety of soups, salads, and sandwiches.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Head to the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), home to over 6 million specimens and artifacts. Explore the museum’s diverse collections, including dinosaur fossils, ancient cultures, and natural history.
  • 4:30 PM: Visit the Gibson House, a historic house turned museum showcasing the life of Toronto’s early settlers.

Dinner

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Estiatorio Volos, a highly-recommended Greek restaurant serving fresh seafood and traditional dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

Day 3: Explore Toronto’s Waterfront

Morning

  • 9:00 AM: Start your day with a visit to the Toronto Islands, a car-free haven featuring beautiful beaches, gardens, and picnic areas. Take a ferry from the mainland or rent a bike once you arrive.
  • 12:30 PM: Grab lunch at one of the many cafes or food vendors on the islands.

Afternoon

  • 2:00 PM: Visit the nearby Ontario College of Art & Design (OCAD), which features a beautiful public art gallery and a scenic courtyard with outdoor sculptures.
  • 4:00 PM: Take a stroll along the revitalized Waterfront, a vibrant area featuring shops, cafes, and public art installations.

Dinner

  • 7:00 PM: Enjoy dinner at Buca, an upscale Italian restaurant serving fresh pasta and wood-fired dishes in a cozy atmosphere.

Things to Know

  • Tipping: 15% to 20% is standard for service in Toronto.
  • Currency: The Canadian dollar (CAD) is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks, currency exchange offices, or use ATMs.
  • Weather: Pack layers for unpredictable weather, especially during spring and fall.

Transportation

  • Public Transit: Use the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) bus and streetcar system to get around the city. Download the Transit app for easy route planning.
  • Taxi/Ride-hailing: Hail a taxi on the street or use ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft.

Tips

  • Explore neighborhoods: Wander through different neighborhoods to discover hidden gems and unique experiences.
  • Be prepared for crowds: Popular areas can get crowded, especially during peak season. Plan accordingly and be patient.
  • Respect local customs: Toronto is a multicultural city. Be respectful of different cultures and traditions.

Other Tips

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially in hot weather.
  • Use sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun with SPF 30 or higher sunscreen.
  • Try new foods: Be adventurous and try local cuisine to get a true taste of Toronto.