Visit Toronto in 3 Days
Toronto, the vibrant and multicultural heart of Canada, is a city that offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. With its iconic skyline, diverse culinary scene, and rich cultural history, Toronto is a city that deserves to be explored. Here is a comprehensive 3-day itinerary, inspired by the structure of the Paris itinerary from World in Paris, to help you make the most of your time in Toronto.
Day 1: Exploring Downtown Toronto & The Distillery District
Start your day at the iconic CN Tower, one of the tallest freestanding structures in the world. Enjoy the panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. From there, head to the nearby Ripley’s Aquarium, home to a stunning array of marine life.
Afterward, take a stroll along the Harbourfront, where you can enjoy the beautiful views of Lake Ontario. Grab lunch at one of the many restaurants in the area.
In the afternoon, head to the Distillery District, a historic and entertainment precinct. It’s known for its well-preserved Victorian-era architecture, unique boutiques, art galleries, and eateries.
Day 2: Museums, Markets, and Kensington Market
Begin your day at the Royal Ontario Museum, Canada’s largest museum of world culture and natural history. After exploring the museum, head to the St. Lawrence Market, one of the world’s best food markets. Here, you can sample a variety of local and international foods.
In the afternoon, visit Kensington Market, a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood known for its diverse food options, vintage shops, and street art. It’s the perfect place to grab a coffee and people-watch.
Day 3: The Beaches and Toronto Islands
Start your day in The Beaches, a relaxed neighborhood with a laid-back vibe, known for its sandy beaches along Lake Ontario. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at one of the local cafes before taking a stroll along the boardwalk.
In the afternoon, take a ferry to the Toronto Islands. Here, you can rent a bike or a canoe, visit the Centreville Amusement Park, or simply relax on the beach.
End your day with a dinner at one of the city’s top restaurants, perhaps in the trendy West Queen West neighborhood, known for its dining scene.
Other Things to Do in Toronto in 3 Days
- Visit the Royal Ontario Museum: The Royal Ontario Museum is Canada’s largest museum of world cultures and natural history. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in art, culture, and history.
- Day Trip to Niagara Falls: If you have an extra day, consider a day trip to the breathtaking Niagara Falls. It’s a bit of a journey from Toronto, but it’s definitely worth it.
- Indoor Activities for Rainy Days: If you encounter a rainy day during your visit, don’t worry. Toronto has plenty of indoor activities to offer. For instance, you could visit the Art Gallery of Ontario or the Ontario Science Centre.
- Explore Toronto’s Distillery District: This historic and entertainment precinct is known for its unique cultural offerings, which include arts, food, and performance events. It’s a great place to explore if you’re looking for something different to do.
- Stroll Around Kensington Market: This vibrant, multicultural neighborhood is filled with vintage shops, unique boutiques, and delicious food from around the world. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon.
- Visit the Toronto Islands: For a break from the city, take a ferry to the Toronto Islands. You can rent a bike, go for a swim, or just enjoy a picnic with a view of the city skyline.
Where to Stay in Toronto for 3 Days
Toronto offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. For first-time visitors, Downtown Toronto is a great place to stay as it puts you close to major attractions like the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the Harbourfront. For a more unique experience, consider staying in neighborhoods like Kensington Market or West Queen West, known for their vibrant arts scene and trendy eateries.
Toronto offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some options to consider:
- Hilton Toronto
Located in the Financial District, the Hilton Toronto offers a sustainable stay with comfortable rooms. It’s in a prime location, making it easy to access various attractions in the city.
- Kimpton Saint George Hotel
Situated in Bloor-Yorkville, the Kimpton Saint George Hotel is another sustainable choice for travelers. It offers a private suite with a separate bedroom and living room.
- Multiple Elite Condos with Views
If you prefer a home-like setting, consider staying at the Multiple Elite Condos. Located in Downtown Toronto, these condos offer a wonderful view of the city.
- Lifesuites Loft – CN Tower
For those who want to stay close to the iconic CN Tower, the Lifesuites Loft is a perfect choice. It offers a one-bedroom apartment with a comfortable living area.
- Downtown Suites
Located near the Harbourfront, Downtown Suites offer a two-bedroom apartment, making it a good choice for families or groups.
Remember, the best place to stay in Toronto depends on your personal preferences and what you plan to do in the city. Consider factors like proximity to attractions, the type of accommodation, and your budget when making your decision.
Final Thoughts
Toronto is a city that’s full of life and energy. With its diverse neighborhoods, world-class museums, and vibrant food scene, there’s something for everyone. This 3-day itinerary is just a starting point – there’s so much more to explore in Toronto. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Canada’s largest city.
How to Get from and to the Airports of Toronto
Toronto is served by two major airports: Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ).
Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)
Toronto Pearson is the largest and busiest airport in Canada, located about 22.5 kilometers northwest of Downtown Toronto.
Public Transit: The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) offers public bus services that connect Pearson Airport with various points in Toronto. The 900 Airport Express bus route provides service from Pearson Airport to Kipling Station on the TTC Bloor-Danforth Subway Line.
UP Express Train: The Union Pearson Express (UP Express) is a dedicated air-rail link that speeds travelers from Toronto Pearson International Airport to Union Station in the heart of downtown Toronto. It’s a fast and reliable option, with trains departing every 15 minutes and the journey takes just 25 minutes.
Taxi & Ride-Share: Taxis and ride-share services like Uber and Lyft are available at Pearson. The journey to downtown Toronto takes about 30-50 minutes, depending on traffic.
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)
Billy Bishop Airport is located on the Toronto Islands, close to the downtown area.
Shuttle Bus: Billy Bishop provides a complimentary shuttle bus service to and from the airport and downtown. The shuttle runs approximately every 15 minutes.
Public Transit: The TTC also provides service to Billy Bishop. You can take the 511 Bathurst streetcar from Bathurst subway station to the Bathurst and Queens Quay stop, then walk south to the ferry terminal.
Walking: A pedestrian tunnel connects Billy Bishop to the mainland, so you can also choose to walk. The tunnel can be accessed from the mainland side by elevators.
Ferry: A short ferry ride (about 90 seconds) is also available to and from Billy Bishop, and it’s free for pedestrians.
Remember, it’s always a good idea to check the current schedules and routes, as they can change
Have a look at our other Toronto Itineraries
