Imagine walking through a city where gleaming skyscrapers stand next to Victorian-era buildings, where you can eat breakfast in Little Italy, lunch in Chinatown, and dinner in Greektown. Toronto, Canada’s largest city, offers exactly this mix of old and new, traditional and modern, making it perfect for a 3-day adventure.
🏠 Where to Stay in Toronto
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: The Hazelton
- ✨ 5-Star: The Ritz-Carlton Toronto
- 🏨 4-Star: Le Germain Maple Leaf Square
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Ocho
- 💸 Cheap: Comfort Inn Airport West Mississauga
- 🏢 Apartament: Yonge Suites Furnished Apartments Toronto
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: QS Toronto Airport
- 🏩 For Couples: Bisha Toronto
I’ve created this 3-day guide based on my recent trips to Toronto, mixing must-see attractions with hidden local spots. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more deeply, this itinerary helps you experience the best of the city without feeling rushed. You’ll find exact prices, insider tips, and the perfect timing for each stop – everything you need to make your trip unforgettable.
💁 Best Guided Tours in Toronto
- Kensington Market Toronto's Neighborhood International Food Tour from € 70 (⭐4.9/5)
- 1-Hour Toronto Harbour Tour with Live Narration from € 20 (⭐4.7/5)
- Ultimate Toronto Tour from € 130 (⭐4.7/5)
- Show Me The City: Toronto Walking Tour from € 35 (⭐4.9/5)
- Secret Food Tours Toronto from € 65 (⭐4.9/5)
Perfect 3 Days in Toronto Itinerary: Quick Overview
- Day 1 🏙️ Toronto Icons & Downtown: Start early at the CN Tower for panoramic views, explore marine life at Ripley’s Aquarium, feast at St. Lawrence Market, and end your day with dinner in the historic Distillery District.
- Day 2 🌊 Nature & Culture Vibes: Take a morning ferry to Toronto Islands for stunning skyline views and bike rides, explore world cultures at the Royal Ontario Museum, and cap off the day with a romantic sunset harbor cruise.
- Day 3 🎨 Local Life & Hidden Gems: Begin in vibrant Kensington Market and Chinatown for authentic eats, discover the majestic Casa Loma castle, and finish your Toronto adventure along trendy Queen Street West with boutique shopping and dinner.
Day 1: Top Things to Do in Toronto
Morning: CN Tower
Early Magic: I discovered that arriving at the CN Tower before 11 AM transformed my entire experience, with the morning sun casting perfect shadows across Toronto’s magnificent skyline. The crisp morning air and minimal crowds made it feel like I had this iconic landmark almost to myself.
Sky Views: From the main observation deck at 346 meters, I watched boats dotting Lake Ontario while the downtown core buzzed with energy below. The glass floor became my favorite spot, where I gathered enough courage to lie down and snap some incredible photos of the heart of downtown Toronto stretching beneath me.
Dining Heights: My breakfast at 360 Restaurant turned into an unforgettable experience as the space completed a full rotation in 72 minutes, offering Canada’s largest city from every angle. The minimum spend of CAD $75 (EUR 51) felt worthwhile as I savored my eggs benedict while watching planes land at the island airport and spotting landmarks like the old Toronto neighborhoods.
Thrill Zone: The EdgeWalk experience had my heart racing as I stepped onto the exterior ledge, 356 meters above the city streets. Strapped safely to the overhead rail, I leaned back over Toronto’s skyline, creating memories that would last a lifetime.
Midday: Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Deep Dive: My jaw dropped as I entered Ripley’s Aquarium, where I found myself surrounded by an underwater world of 20,000 marine creatures. Walking through the massive 12,500-square-meter space, I felt like I’d discovered an entire ocean hidden in the heart of downtown Toronto.
Touch & Thrill: The highlight of my visit was the Discovery Centre, where I gathered the courage to gently touch a bamboo shark as it glided past – its skin felt like wet sandpaper. The real showstopper came when I stepped onto North America’s longest moving sidewalk in the Dangerous Lagoon, where sand tiger sharks gracefully swam overhead while I stood mesmerized in the underwater tunnel.
Key Exhibits
- Canadian Waters: Experience 17 distinct habitats featuring local species like the giant Pacific octopus, wolf eel, and American lobster.
- Rainbow Reef: Marvel at the vibrant Indo-Pacific ecosystem with colorful species including Picasso triggerfish and emperor angelfish.
- Planet Jellies: Get mesmerized by the color-changing displays featuring five different jellyfish species, including moon jellies and Pacific sea nettles.
Afternoon: St. Lawrence Market
Market Memories: Stepping into St. Lawrence Market transported me into a world of culinary wonders, where the historic brick walls house over 120 passionate vendors. The moment I walked through the doors of this 1803 landmark, the aroma of fresh-baked bread and local delicacies filled the air, making my taste buds tingle with anticipation.
Iconic Eats: The legendary peameal bacon sandwich from Carousel Bakery is a must-try Toronto delicacy. This signature dish features thick-sliced, cornmeal-crusted back bacon served on a soft kaiser roll. For the best experience, try it with their recommended honey or maple mustard.
Artisanal Treasures: Don’t miss Kozlick’s Canadian Mustard for unique local blends, including their popular Maple Whiskey variety. The market’s lower level houses specialty shops offering everything from international cheeses to handcrafted chocolates.
Evening: Distillery District
Night Magic: I arrived at the Distillery District just as the sun was setting, watching Toronto’s best-preserved Victorian industrial buildings transform into an enchanting scene. The historic cobblestone streets came alive with twinkling lights.
Dinner Delights: I chose El Catrin, where mains range from CAD $28-45 (EUR 19-31), captivated by North America’s largest Day of the Dead mural. Their house-made guacamole (CAD $18/EUR 12) and short rib tacos (CAD $24/EUR 16), paired with a mezcal flight (CAD $32/EUR 22), created the perfect dining experience.
Price Guide:
| Experience | CAD | EUR |
|---|---|---|
| Average Main Course | $35 | €24 |
| Craft Beer Flight | $16 | €11 |
| Cocktails | $18-25 | €12-17 |
| Appetizers | $15-22 | €10-15 |
Local Flavors: My evening ended at the historic Mill Street Brewpub, once part of the British Empire’s largest distillery. Sampling their craft beer flight (CAD $16/EUR 11) while chatting with friendly locals gave me authentic insights into Toronto’s vibrant food scene.
Best Activities
- Toronto Distillery District Walking Tour: This walking tour offers an in-depth exploration of Toronto’s historic Distillery District, a beautifully preserved Victorian-era neighborhood. Led by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll discover the area’s rich history, from its industrial past to its current status as a hub for arts, culture, and cuisine.
- Best of Toronto Small Group Tour with CN Tower and Harbour Cruise: Take a guided tour where you’ll visit iconic landmarks such as the CN Tower, St. Lawrence Market, and Toronto Harbour. The tour provides a mix of guided exploration and free time, allowing you to get a taste of Toronto’s diverse culture, history, and modern attractions.
- Toronto City Tour: This city tour offers an excellent introduction to Toronto’s major attractions and diverse neighborhoods. Led by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll explore iconic landmarks such as the CN Tower, St. Lawrence Market, and Casa Loma, while also discovering the unique character of areas like Chinatown and Kensington Market, perfect for your 3-day itinerary.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada – Check availability of tickets
Day 2: Nature, Culture, and Waterfront Vibes
Morning: Toronto Islands
Island Journey: I caught the first ferry at 6:30 AM from Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, paying CAD $9.11 (EUR 6.20) for my return ticket. The early morning sun painted Toronto’s skyline in golden hues as our 15-minute journey across the harbor unfolded with perfect photo opportunities.
Bike Adventures: After reaching Centre Island, I walked about 15 minutes to Toronto Island Bicycle Rental, where I rented a single bike for CAD $10 (EUR 6.80) per hour. The friendly staff required my ID as a deposit and provided a helmet at no extra cost.
Morning Routes: Pedaling along the car-free paths, I discovered why this is North America’s largest urban car-free community. The morning silence was broken only by birds and gentle waves as I cycled past the historic Gibraltar Point Lighthouse and along the boardwalk offering spectacular views of Lake Ontario.
Beach Discovery: By 9 AM, I had my pick of empty beaches. Centre Island Beach proved perfect for families, while Ward’s Island Beach offered a more secluded experience. The morning light created perfect conditions for skyline photographs, with the CN Tower reflecting in the calm harbor waters.
Afternoon: Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
Cultural Giants: I found myself torn between Toronto’s two largest museums, but decided to start with the ROM, where over 13 million artifacts await exploration. The stunning Michael Lee-Chin Crystal architecture immediately caught my eye, its angular design creating a dramatic entrance into Canada’s largest museum.
Natural Wonders: The dinosaur gallery became my first stop, where I stood in awe beneath towering prehistoric skeletons and examined some of the world’s most extensive collections from the Burgess Shale. The Earth’s Treasures gallery dazzled me with its spectacular gems and minerals display.
World Heritage: Moving through the cultural galleries, I discovered an impressive collection of Chinese temple art, Ancient Egyptian artifacts, and Indigenous Canadian exhibits. The interactive displays and hands-on learning areas made the experience even more engaging.
Price Guide:
| Experience | CAD | EUR |
|---|---|---|
| ROM Adult | $23 | €15.60 |
| ROM Student/Youth | $18 | €12.20 |
| ROM Child (3-13) | $14 | €9.50 |
Evening: Harbourfront & Sunset Cruise
Sunset Magic: I discovered the perfect end to my Toronto day starts at Boxcar Social, where I grabbed a specialty coffee (CAD $5/EUR 3.40) and nabbed a coveted patio spot overlooking Lake Ontario. The cafe stays open until 8 PM on weekdays, offering prime sunset viewing opportunities.
Sweet Treats: Before boarding the cruise, I stopped at Lick It Gelato for their award-winning burnt caramel gelato (CAD $7/EUR 4.75). The shop’s extended summer hours until 11 PM on weekends made it an ideal pre-cruise treat, with stunning waterfront views from their outdoor seating area.
Cruise Experience: The Tall Ship Kajama offered the most atmospheric sunset cruise I’ve experienced, with its traditional 165-foot three-masted schooner setting sail as the sun painted the sky. The evening cruise (CAD $125/EUR 85 for adults) lasted three hours, providing spectacular photo opportunities of Toronto’s illuminated skyline.
Best Activities
- Toronto Premier Dinner Cruise: This luxurious dinner cruise offers a unique way to experience Toronto’s stunning skyline and harbor views while enjoying a gourmet meal. As you sail along Lake Ontario, you’ll be treated to live entertainment and the opportunity to dance under the stars on the ship’s rooftop lounge.
- Toronto Islands Morning Bike Tour: This morning bike tour offers a unique way to explore the picturesque Toronto Islands, providing stunning views of the city skyline and Lake Ontario. Led by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll cycle through car-free paths, discovering the islands’ hidden beaches, historic landmarks, and lush parklands.
- Royal Ontario Museum – Check availability of tickets
Day 3: Neighborhoods and Hidden Gems
Morning: Kensington Market & Chinatown
Market Magic: I arrived in Kensington Market just as the shops were opening, when the morning light painted the Victorian buildings and street art in golden hues. The narrow streets between Spadina Avenue and Bathurst Street buzzed with early risers setting up their colorful produce displays and the aroma of fresh-baked goods wafting from local bakeries.
Vintage Treasures: My first stop was Courage My Love, a beloved vintage shop operating since 1975, where I discovered unique pieces ranging from CAD $15-45 (EUR 10-31). The shop’s collection of eclectic jewelry and retro clothing perfectly captures the neighborhood’s bohemian spirit.
Global Flavors: Heading toward Chinatown, I couldn’t resist stopping at Golden Patty Bakery for their famous Jamaican patties (CAD $4/EUR 2.70), still warm from the oven. The combination of flaky pastry and spiced filling made for the perfect breakfast on the go.
Dim Sum Delights: By mid-morning, I found myself at Rol San in the heart of Chinatown, where the fresh-to-order dim sum proved worth every penny. Their deep-fried taro puffs and steamed dumplings offered an authentic taste of Cantonese cuisine without breaking the bank.
Midday: Casa Loma
Castle Arrival: I reached Casa Loma just before noon, when the Gothic Revival castle stood majestically against the Toronto skyline. The lavish sandstone mansion, built between 1911-1914, cost an astounding CAD $3.5 million (equivalent to about CAD $75 million today) and remains North America’s only true castle.
Grand Interiors: Inside, I wandered through 98 rooms filled with opulent details – from the 60-foot ceiling Great Hall adorned with flags and suits of armor to the library showcasing the Pellatt family coat of arms. The conservatory particularly captivated me with its stunning stained-glass ceiling and bronze doors.
Price Guide:
| Ticket Type | CAD | EUR |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (18-64) | $44.49 | €30.25 |
| Senior (65+) | $25 | €17 |
| Youth (14-17) | $25 | €17 |
| Child (4-13) | $20 | €13.60 |
Secret Passages: The most thrilling discovery was the 800-foot underground tunnel connecting the main house to the stables. Walking through this passage, I learned about Toronto’s fascinating history during the Prohibition era and Depression, making the castle’s past come alive.
Afternoon/Evening: Queen Street West
Street Vibes: I started my Queen West adventure at Spadina Avenue, where the fashion district comes alive with a mix of high-end boutiques and vintage shops. The stretch between Bathurst Street and Spadina Avenue proved particularly exciting, with independent designers and international brands creating a perfect shopping mix.
Art Discovery: Ducking into Graffiti Alley, I found myself immersed in a vibrant three-block stretch of urban art running parallel to Queen Street West. The colorful murals by renowned artists like ELICSER and uber5000 created perfect photo opportunities, with the famous Toronto Tribute mural capturing the city’s essence through its playful depiction of local icons.
Boutique Finds: My shopping journey included stops at unique stores like Coal Miner’s Daughter (744 Queen St. W) for local designer pieces (CAD $50-150/EUR 34-102) and Mama Loves You Vintage (541 Queen St. W) for curated retro finds (CAD $25-80/EUR 17-54).
Dinner Choice: I ended my evening at Planta Queen, where innovative vegan dishes like the Bang Bang Broccoli (CAD $14.95/EUR 10.15) and Watermelon Poke (CAD $21.95/EUR 14.90) offered a perfect finale to my Queen West exploration.
Best Activities
- Kensington Market: Toronto's Neighborhood International Food Tour: This food tour offers a delicious exploration of Toronto’s vibrant Kensington Market, known for its diverse culinary scene and multicultural atmosphere. Led by knowledgeable local guides, you’ll sample a variety of international cuisines, from traditional Canadian dishes to exotic flavors from around the world.
- Casa Loma Entry Ticket with Multimedia Audio Guide: This tour offers a self-guided exploration of Toronto’s majestic Casa Loma, a Gothic Revival-style castle built in the early 20th century. With your entry ticket, you’ll receive a multimedia audio guide that provides fascinating insights into the castle’s history, architecture, and former residents.
Travel Tips for Visiting Toronto
Perfect Timing: Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) offer the most pleasant experience in Toronto with mild temperatures ranging from 5-20°C (41-68°F). I found spring particularly magical with cherry blossoms blooming in High Park during late April, while fall painted the city in vibrant autumn colors with fewer tourists.
Smart Transit: During my explorations, I discovered Toronto’s extensive public transit network offers the most cost-effective way around. The TTC operates buses, streetcars, and subways, with bikes allowed during off-peak hours (10 AM to 3:30 PM, and 7 PM to 6:30 AM). I particularly enjoyed using the bike share program for CAD $3.25, perfect for exploring the waterfront area.
City Movement:
| Transport Type | Cost (CAD) | Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| TTC Day Pass | $13.50 | €9.20 |
| Bike Share | $3.25/trip | €2.20 |
| Ferry Return | $9.11 | €6.20 |
Free Adventures: I spent delightful afternoons exploring Nathan Phillips Square, where the iconic Toronto sign creates perfect photo opportunities. High Park offered peaceful nature walks and a free zoo, while Graffiti Alley provided stunning urban photography backgrounds.
Smart Savings: The Toronto CityPASS proved invaluable, offering significant discounts on major attractions like the CN Tower and Royal Ontario Museum. I discovered the best budget-friendly times to visit attractions were weekday mornings, when crowds were thinner and wait times shorter.
Location Choice: The Entertainment District emerged as my ideal base, with easy access to major attractions like the CN Tower and Rogers Centre. For a more bohemian vibe, I found accommodations near Queen Street perfect for exploring the city’s artistic side and vibrant food scene.
❓ FAQ
What are the must-see attractions during a 3-day trip to Toronto?
The essential attractions for a perfect Toronto itinerary include the iconic CN Tower for a bird’s eye view of the city, the historic Distillery District, St. Lawrence Market for local flavors, and Casa Loma to discover Sir Henry Pellatt’s legacy. Toronto offers diverse experiences from exploring the Art Gallery of Ontario to taking guided tours of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods.
Is it possible to visit Niagara Falls during a 3-day Toronto itinerary?
Yes, many visitors make a day trip to see Niagara Falls during their three days in Toronto. The journey behind the falls and boat tours are popular activities, typically taking 6-8 hours including transportation. Tour operators offer guided tours from downtown Toronto, making it a convenient way to experience one of Canada’s most famous attractions.
What are the best neighborhoods to explore in Toronto?
Toronto’s best parts include Kensington Market for vintage shopping and multicultural dining, the Entertainment District for theatres and restaurants, and Queen Street for art enthusiasts. The University of Toronto area offers historic architecture, while the Distillery District showcases preserved Victorian buildings and artisan shops.
How can visitors maximize their time in Toronto?
To make the most of exploring Toronto, consider taking a hop-on-hop-off bus tour for an overview, visiting attractions early morning to avoid crowds, and ending your first day with dinner at the CN Tower’s rotating restaurant. The Toronto CityPASS helps save money on major attractions while offering skip-the-line benefits.
What unique experiences should visitors include in their Toronto itinerary?
Unique things to do and see include taking a sunset sailing cruise along the harbor, experiencing a helicopter tour for spectacular city views, visiting the Toronto Islands for outdoor activities, and exploring Graffiti Alley for those who are fans of street art. The winter garden theatre and various coffee shops offer authentic local experiences.
