The Ultimate Toronto Itinerary: 6 Stops You Can't Miss

Toronto, as one of North America’s most dynamic cities, beautifully combines local charm with a global vibe. Located just a few hours away from other major cities such as New York, Boston, and Montreal, it is a must-visit destination in North America.

CN Tower: Toronto's Iconic Sky-High Experience

Piercing Toronto’s skyline, the CN Tower is impossible to miss when you’re in downtown. The panoramic city views from its observation deck are spectacular, especially at sunset.

Just steps away from the tower (if you’re a big fan of baseball), you can catch the Toronto Blue Jays in action at Rogers Centre. If you’d rather dive into an underwater world, then stop at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.

Sankofa Square: The Heart of Downtown Toronto

Did you know that you can experience a taste of New York’s Times Square right in the heart of Toronto?

 

Sankofa Square, formerly known as Yonge-Dundas Square, offers a vibrant atmosphere similar to that of Times Square. The best time to visit is at night when the lights create a dazzling experience. During the day, be sure to stop by Nathan Phillips Square to take pictures in front of the iconic “Toronto” sign.

If you’re looking for a cozy spot to grab a coffee, consider visiting Jimmy’s Coffee, which is located in a historic three-story building on Gerrard Street.

Kensington Market: Where Art Meets Community

After your delightful coffee break, take a stroll towards Kensington Market to experience a local side of the bustling city.

This vibrant neighbourhood is renowned for its colourful atmosphere, lively murals, and family-friendly pedestrian events held on Sundays.

If you’re interested in the arts, make sure to visit the Kensington Art Gallery.

Casa Loma: Toronto's Hollywood Castle

Step into the Gothic halls where X-Men (2000), Chicago (2002), and The Umbrella Academy (2019) filmed their most dramatic scenes in Casa Loma.

As Toronto’s Gothic Revival-style castle, it has been doubling as a Hollywood set for decades. Now, functioning as a historic house museum, it’s open to the public, allowing you to explore the same atmosphere where movie magic was created.

On your way there, stop by the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), where the striking crystal exterior architecture is as captivating as the collection within.

High Park: Toronto's Urban Nature Retreat

To take a break from sightseeing at museums and grand mansions, consider visiting High Park for a delightful picnic or a leisurely walk.

As the largest public park in Toronto, High Park offers plenty of activities. It is well known for its beautiful gardens, a zoo, a scenic pond, and lovely walking paths.

If you’re looking to see cherry blossoms, plan your visit for late April or early May.

Toronto Islands: The Perfect Urban Getaway

If High Park isn’t enough of a getaway from the busy city life, visiting the Toronto Islands is a fantastic option. You can take a ferry from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, which departs every 15 minutes, so there’s no need to rush.

With its beaches, bike paths, amusement parks, and one of the best views of the Toronto skyline, you’ll never run out of activities to enjoy on the Toronto Islands.

Bonus

Niagara Falls is a must-see destination that every traveller should experience at least once in their lifetime. Located near the U.S. border, it’s worth the visit if you have some extra time! The drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car, or 2 to 2.5 hours by bus, if you prefer.

Here are more handy tips for your next holiday:

  • Visit in spring or summer – Toronto’s best weather is from April to September, perfect for outdoor activities.
  • Get a PRESTO card – Toronto’s public transit system (TTC) is easy to navigate with a PRESTO card for subways, streetcars, and buses.
  • Wear comfortable shoes – Toronto is a walkable city with diverse neighborhoods, so pack comfortable sneakers to explore on foot.

Ready to Explore Toronto?

Toronto is packed with unforgettable experiences, from the breathtaking views at the CN Tower to the vibrant streets of Kensington Market and the peaceful escape of the Toronto Islands. There’s something for everyone.

And with TravelPay Later, planning your dream trip has never been easier. With flexible payment plans, you can spread out the cost and make your adventure more affordable. Don’t wait—start planning your trip today and get ready for the journey of a lifetime!