5 Days in Toronto 2024

Visit Toronto in 5 Days

Toronto, the largest city in Canada, is a vibrant and diverse metropolis that offers a mix of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, Toronto has something for everyone. In this 5-day itinerary, we’ll explore the best of Toronto, from its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems, all from a local’s perspective.

5-day Toronto Itinerary – Our Proposal for Toronto in 5 Days

What to do in Toronto in 5 days? Here’s an overview of the perfect Toronto itinerary 5 days.

• Day 1 in Toronto – Explore Downtown Toronto
• Day 2 in Toronto – Discover Toronto’s Neighborhoods
• Day 3 in Toronto – Enjoy Toronto’s Green Spaces
• Day 4 in Toronto – Experience Toronto’s Arts and Culture
• Day 5 in Toronto – Day Trip to Niagara Falls

Day 1: Explore Downtown Toronto

Morning:

• Start your day with a visit to the CN Tower, one of the tallest freestanding structures in the world. Take the glass elevator to the observation deck and enjoy panoramic views of the city, Lake Ontario, and the surrounding region. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the EdgeWalk, where you can walk along the edge of the tower’s main pod, 356 meters above the ground.
• Just a short walk from the CN Tower is Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, home to over 20,000 aquatic animals. Explore the various exhibits, including the Dangerous Lagoon, where you can walk through an underwater tunnel and see sharks, rays, and turtles swimming above you. Don’t miss the interactive touch tanks, where you can get up close with horseshoe crabs, stingrays, and more.
• For lunch, head to the historic St. Lawrence Market, a bustling food market that has been serving the city since 1803. Try the famous peameal bacon sandwich at Carousel Bakery, a Toronto classic made with peameal bacon (a type of back bacon rolled in cornmeal) on a soft bun with mustard.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Distillery District, a pedestrian-only area with cobblestone streets, art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. This former whiskey distillery has been transformed into a vibrant arts and culture hub, with regular events and festivals. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the district and its transformation.
• Visit the Royal Ontario Museum, Canada’s largest museum of world cultures and natural history. With over six million objects in its collection, the ROM offers a wide range of exhibits, from ancient artifacts to contemporary art. Explore the galleries dedicated to Canadian history, Indigenous cultures, ancient civilizations, and more.

Evening:

• Dine at one of the many restaurants in the Entertainment District, a lively area known for its theaters, nightclubs, and dining options. Choose from a wide range of cuisines, from Italian to Japanese to Mexican.
• Catch a show at the Princess of Wales Theatre or the Royal Alexandra Theatre, both of which host a variety of performances, including Broadway-style musicals, plays, and concerts. Check the schedule in advance and book your tickets early, as popular shows can sell out quickly.

Day 2: Discover Toronto’s Neighborhoods

Morning:

• Explore Kensington Market, a bohemian neighborhood known for its eclectic shops, street art, and international cuisine. Wander the colorful streets and discover vintage clothing stores, artisanal bakeries, and quirky boutiques. Try some global flavors at the many food stalls and cafes, from Jamaican patties to Mexican tacos to Portuguese pastries.
• Visit Chinatown, one of the largest in North America, and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of this bustling neighborhood. Browse the shops for unique souvenirs, such as traditional Chinese medicine, tea, and ceramics. Try some authentic dim sum at one of the many restaurants, where you can sample a variety of small dishes, from dumplings to buns to rice rolls.

Afternoon:

• Head to the trendy Queen Street West for shopping and street art. This hip neighborhood is known for its independent boutiques, art galleries, and graffiti-covered alleys. Discover the latest fashion trends, browse the vinyl records, and check out the local art scene.
• Explore the historic Distillery District, home to art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the district and its transformation from a whiskey distillery to a vibrant arts and culture hub.

Evening:

• Dine in Little Italy, known for its Italian restaurants and lively atmosphere. Enjoy a plate of pasta, a wood-fired pizza, or a creamy risotto, paired with a glass of Italian wine. Don’t forget to save room for dessert, such as tiramisu or cannoli.
• Enjoy a live music performance at one of the many bars in the area. From jazz to rock to reggae, there’s something for everyone. Check the local listings for upcoming shows and events.

Day 3: Enjoy Toronto’s Green Spaces

Morning:

• Visit High Park, Toronto’s largest public park, and explore its gardens, hiking trails, and zoo. Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens, including the cherry blossom trees that bloom in spring. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront trails, where you can enjoy views of Grenadier Pond and the surrounding nature. Visit the High Park Zoo, home to a variety of animals, including bison, llamas, and peacocks.
• Head to the Toronto Islands for a relaxing day at the beach or rent a kayak or paddleboard. Take the ferry from downtown Toronto to the islands, a group of small islands located just off the coast. Enjoy the sandy beaches, clear waters, and stunning views of the city skyline. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the islands from the water. Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch on the beach.

Afternoon:

• Explore the scenic Humber Bay Park, with its butterfly habitat, rock gardens, and waterfront trails. Wander through the butterfly habitat, where you can see a variety of butterflies and learn about their life cycle. Visit the rock gardens, where you can see a wide range of plants and flowers. Take a walk along the waterfront trails, where you can enjoy views of Lake Ontario and the Toronto skyline.
• Visit the Toronto Botanical Garden and wander through its themed gardens. Explore the various gardens, including the Kitchen Garden, where you can see a wide range of edible plants, and the Beryl Ivey Knot Garden, where you can see a traditional knot garden design.

Evening:

• Dine at one of the many restaurants along the waterfront. Choose from a wide range of cuisines, from seafood to Italian to Asian. Enjoy the views of the water and the city skyline as you dine.
• Take a sunset cruise on Lake Ontario. Enjoy the views of the city as the sun sets over the water. Choose from a variety of cruises, from a romantic dinner cruise to a lively party cruise.

Day 4: Experience Toronto’s Arts and Culture

Morning:

• Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario, home to a vast collection of Canadian and international art. Explore the galleries dedicated to Canadian art, Indigenous art, European art, and more. Discover works by famous artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Emily Carr. Take a guided tour to learn more about the art and the artists.
• Explore the Bata Shoe Museum, which showcases the history of footwear from around the world. Discover the fascinating stories behind the shoes, from ancient Egyptian sandals to modern high heels. Learn about the cultural significance of footwear and how it has evolved over time.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Aga Khan Museum, dedicated to Islamic art and culture. Explore the galleries and discover a wide range of art and artifacts, from manuscripts to ceramics to textiles. Learn about the history and culture of the Islamic world through the museum’s exhibits and programs.
• Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art Toronto, showcasing innovative contemporary art. Discover works by emerging and established artists, from paintings to sculptures to installations. Take a guided tour to learn more about the art and the artists.

Evening:

• Dine in the trendy Ossington Avenue area, known for its hip restaurants and bars. Choose from a wide range of cuisines, from Korean to Portuguese to Caribbean. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and discover the latest food trends.
• Catch a live performance at the historic Danforth Music Hall. This iconic venue hosts a wide range of concerts, from indie rock to hip hop to jazz. Check the schedule in advance and book your tickets early, as popular shows can sell out quickly.

Day 5: Day Trip to Niagara Falls

Morning:

• Take a day trip to Niagara Falls, one of the most famous natural attractions in the world. Marvel at the sheer power and beauty of the falls, which consist of three separate waterfalls: the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the Horseshoe Falls. Take a boat tour to get up close to the falls and feel the spray of the water on your face.

Afternoon:

• Explore the picturesque town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, known for its wineries and historic architecture. Wander the charming streets and discover the well-preserved 19th-century buildings. Visit a local winery for a wine tasting and learn about the region’s winemaking history and techniques.

Evening:

• Return to Toronto and enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants. Choose from a wide range of cuisines, from French to Japanese to Indian. Celebrate your last night in Toronto with a delicious meal and a glass of wine.

Best Tips by a Local:

• Use the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) to get around the city. It’s affordable and convenient.
• Take advantage of Toronto’s many free events and festivals, especially in the summer.
• Explore Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods to get a taste of the city’s multicultural heritage.
• Don’t forget to try some of Toronto’s iconic dishes, such as poutine and butter tarts.

How to Get from / to the Airports of Toronto:

• Toronto Pearson International Airport: Take the UP Express train to Union Station in downtown Toronto.
• Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport: Take the free shuttle bus to Union Station.

Transportation Option	Pearson International Airport (YYZ)	Billy Bishop City Airport (YTZ)
UP Express Train	Yes (25 minutes to Union Station)	No
TTC (Public Transit)	Yes (TTC Bus to Subway Line)	Yes (TTC Streetcar to Subway Line)
Airport Shuttle	No	Yes (Free shuttle to Union Station)
Taxi / Ride-sharing	Yes	Yes
Car Rental	Yes	Yes
Private Car Service	Yes	Yes

Where to Stay in Toronto for 5 Days

1. Downtown Toronto:

• Fairmont Royal York: A historic luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown Toronto, just steps from Union Station and major attractions. The hotel features elegant rooms, a rooftop garden, and several dining options.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto: A 5-star hotel offering luxurious accommodations, a spa, and a rooftop lounge with stunning views of the city skyline and Lake Ontario.
• One King West Hotel & Residence: A historic hotel and residence offering modern suites with kitchenettes, a rooftop terrace, and a fitness center.

2. Yorkville:

• Four Seasons Hotel Toronto: A 5-star hotel located in the upscale Yorkville neighborhood, offering luxurious rooms, a spa, and a rooftop terrace with a pool.
• The Hazelton Hotel: A boutique hotel offering elegant rooms, a private screening room, and a restaurant by celebrity chef Mark McEwan.
• InterContinental Toronto Yorkville: A 4-star hotel offering modern rooms, a rooftop terrace with a pool, and a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.

3. The Annex:

• Kimpton Saint George Hotel: A boutique hotel offering stylish rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving Italian cuisine.
• Madison Manor Boutique Hotel: A charming bed and breakfast offering cozy rooms, a pub, and a rooftop terrace.
• The Annex Hotel: A modern hotel offering minimalist rooms with kitchenettes, a rooftop terrace, and a coffee shop.

4. Entertainment District:

• Bisha Hotel Toronto: A luxury hotel offering chic rooms, a rooftop pool, and a restaurant by celebrity chef Akira Back.
• Le Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer: A boutique hotel offering modern rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a restaurant serving Canadian cuisine.
• Hyatt Regency Toronto: A 4-star hotel offering contemporary rooms, a rooftop pool, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.

5. Distillery District:

• The Broadview Hotel: A historic hotel offering eclectic rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a restaurant serving Canadian cuisine.
• Canary Riverside Plaza Hotel: A 5-star hotel offering elegant rooms, a spa, and a restaurant serving British cuisine.

6. Harbourfront:

• The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto: A 4-star hotel offering modern rooms, a rooftop terrace with a pool, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.
• Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown: A 4-star hotel offering contemporary rooms, a rooftop terrace with a pool, and a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.

7. Little Italy:

• The Beverley Hotel: A boutique hotel offering chic rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.
• The Rex Hotel: A historic hotel offering cozy rooms, a jazz bar, and a restaurant serving Canadian cuisine.

8. Chinatown:

• Super 8 by Wyndham Downtown Toronto: A budget hotel offering basic rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving Chinese cuisine.
• Hotel Ocho: A boutique hotel offering modern rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a restaurant serving Asian fusion cuisine.

9. Kensington Market:

• Hotel 89 Yorkville: A budget hotel offering simple rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.
• The Beverley Hotel: A boutique hotel offering chic rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.

10. Queen Street West:

• The Drake Hotel: A hip hotel offering eclectic rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.
• Gladstone Hotel: A historic hotel offering unique rooms, an art gallery, and a restaurant serving Canadian cuisine.

11. The Beaches:

• The Beaches Guest House: A charming bed and breakfast offering cozy rooms, a garden, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.
• Days Inn by Wyndham Toronto East Beach: A budget hotel offering basic rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.

12. Leslieville:

• The Broadview Hotel: A historic hotel offering eclectic rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a restaurant serving Canadian cuisine.
• The Ivy at Verity: A boutique hotel offering elegant rooms, a spa, and a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine.

13. The Danforth:

• The Only Backpacker’s Inn: A budget hostel offering dormitory-style rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.
• The Danforth Inn: A charming bed and breakfast offering cozy rooms, a garden, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.

14. Bloor West Village:

• Old Mill Toronto: A historic hotel offering elegant rooms, a spa, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.
• The Westin Prince, Toronto: A 4-star hotel offering modern rooms, a rooftop terrace with a pool, and a restaurant serving international cuisine.

Prices to Sleep in Star Hotels In Toronto

Hotel Name	Star Rating	Location	Price (USD)	Description
One King West Hotel and Residence	4 stars	Financial District, Toronto	US$267	Built in 1914, blends historic charm and elegance with modern conveniences.
Chelsea Hotel Toronto	4 stars	Downtown Toronto, Toronto	US$190	Features on-site dining, a fitness centre and 2 indoor pools.
DoubleTree by Hilton Toronto Downtown	4 stars	Downtown Toronto, Toronto	US$181	Boasts an indoor heated pool, an on-site restaurant, and a fitness centre.
Town Inn Suites Hotel	3 stars	The Village, Toronto	US$277	Located within a 5-minute walk of the Bloor-Yonge Subway Station. Spacious suites offer a fully equipped kitchen.
Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre, an IHG Hotel	4 stars	The Village, Toronto	US$181	Located next door to Maple Leaf Gardens in downtown Toronto.
Woodbine Hotel & Suites	3 stars	Etobicoke, Toronto	US$108	Located 9 km from Aviva Centre, offers rooms with air conditioning.
Pan Pacific Toronto	4 stars	North York, Toronto	US$176	Nestled on 15 acres of scenic parkland, 16-minute drive from the city centre.
Doubletree by Hilton Toronto Airport, ON	4 stars	Etobicoke, Toronto	US$194	Situated in Toronto and with Mississauga Convention Centre reachable within 15 km.
Holiday Inn Toronto International Airport, an IHG Hotel	4 stars	Etobicoke, Toronto	US$161	Offering a 24-hour airport shuttle, just 3 minutes’ drive from Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Best Western Plus Toronto North York Hotel & Suites	4 stars	North York, Toronto	US$140	Situated in Toronto, 3.1 km from Aviva Centre, features accommodation with a fitness centre, free private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace.

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