Toronto, Ontario, Canada-5-day-itinerary

Day 1: Downtown Toronto

  • Morning: Start your day at the iconic CN Tower, which offers stunning views of the city. You can also take part in the CN Tower’s glass floor experience or enjoy a meal at one of its revolving restaurants.
  • Afternoon: Visit the nearby Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada to see an incredible array of marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish.
  • Evening: Head to the Entertainment District, where you can catch a performance or show. Check out the Royal Alexandra Theatre, which offers a range of productions throughout the year.

Where to Eat

  • For breakfast, try Pai Northern Thai Kitchen, a cozy spot serving authentic Thai cuisine.
  • Grab lunch at The Pita Pit, a casual eatery with delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
  • For dinner, head to Estiatorio Volos, a modern Greek restaurant with an extensive menu.

Where to Stay

  • Consider staying in the downtown area at hotels like:
    • The Hilton Toronto
    • The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto
    • The InterContinental Toronto Centre

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Toronto has a comprehensive public transportation system, including streetcars, buses, and subways. Consider purchasing an OPUS card for convenient travel.
  • Don’t forget to try some of Toronto’s famous street food, such as poutine or Korean BBQ.

Day 2: Art Galleries and Parks

  • Morning: Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), which features a diverse collection of Canadian and international art. Be sure to check out the gallery’s rotating exhibitions.
  • Afternoon: Take a stroll through High Park, which boasts beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a famous cherry blossom tree (if you visit in spring).
  • Evening: Head to the trendy neighborhood of Queen West for shopping and dining. Check out the boutique shops and galleries along this vibrant street.

Where to Eat

  • For breakfast, try The Federal Bar, a historic pub serving classic breakfast dishes.
  • Grab lunch at Patois, a Caribbean-inspired eatery with creative dishes.
  • For dinner, head to Estiatorio Volos, which offers an excellent Greek menu (also featured on Day 1).

Where to Stay

  • Consider staying in the Midtown area at hotels like:
    • The Fairmont Royal York
    • The Hyatt Regency Toronto
    • The Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel

Things to Know

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
  • Don’t miss the beautiful flower displays and tranquil atmosphere of The Toronto Botanical Garden, located just east of downtown.

Day 3: Kensington Market and Chinatown

  • Morning: Explore the vibrant Kensington Market, a melting pot of cultures with eclectic shops, cafes, and restaurants. Try some international cuisine for breakfast at Mango’s or The Canteen.
  • Afternoon: Visit Chinatown, one of North America’s largest, which offers an array of Asian culture, food, and shopping.
  • Evening: Head to the nearby Distillery District, a historic area with converted warehouses now housing bars, restaurants, and shops.

Where to Eat

  • For breakfast, try The Canteen, a popular spot serving creative dishes.
  • Grab lunch at Kensington Market’s Tacos el Gordo, which offers delicious tacos.
  • For dinner, head to Lai Wah Heen, a Chinese restaurant with an excellent menu.

Where to Stay

  • Consider staying in the Downtown area at hotels like:
    • The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto
    • The InterContinental Toronto Centre
    • The Residence Inn by Marriott Toronto Downtown/Midtown

Things to Know

  • Be mindful of your belongings and personal space in crowded areas.
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to explore some of Toronto’s many hidden gems and lesser-known neighborhoods.

Day 4: Beaches and Waterfront

  • Morning: Head to The Beaches, a scenic area with three beautiful beaches (Woodbine, Balmy, and Kew), parks, and walking trails.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Toronto Islands, which offer stunning views of the city skyline, beaches, and a famous amusement park (if you visit in summer).
  • Evening: Return to the Downtown area for dinner and entertainment.

Where to Eat

  • For breakfast, try The Beaches’ Beach Hut, which serves delicious breakfast dishes.
  • Grab lunch at The Beaches’ The Rec Room, which offers a menu of burgers and sandwiches.
  • For dinner, head back to Estiatorio Volos, which offers an excellent Greek menu.

Where to Stay

  • Consider staying in the Midtown area at hotels like:
    • The Hyatt Regency Toronto
    • The Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel
    • The Fairmont Royal York

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular beaches.
  • Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, and comfortable shoes.

Day 5: Shopping and Markets

  • Morning: Visit the iconic St. Lawrence Market, which offers an array of local food vendors, bakeries, and specialty shops.
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Underpass, a converted pedestrian tunnel with unique shopping and dining experiences.
  • Evening: Head to the trendy neighborhood of Ossington Avenue for shopping and dining.

Where to Eat

  • For breakfast, try St. Lawrence Market’s Carousel Bakery, which serves delicious pastries.
  • Grab lunch at The Underpass’ The Pudding Shoppe, which offers creative sandwiches.
  • For dinner, head to Lai Wah Heen, a Chinese restaurant with an excellent menu.

Where to Stay

  • Consider staying in the Downtown area at hotels like:
    • The Hilton Toronto
    • The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto
    • The InterContinental Toronto Centre

Things to Know

  • Be mindful of your belongings and personal space in crowded areas.
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to explore some of Toronto’s many hidden gems and lesser-known neighborhoods.

Tips and Transportation

  • Consider purchasing an OPUS card for convenient travel on public transportation.
  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Take advantage of Toronto’s many bike-share programs and pedestrianized streets.
  • Don’t miss the opportunity to explore some of Toronto’s many hidden gems and lesser-known neighborhoods.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Toronto!