Ontario & Québec: the cleanest way to do it
If you’re visiting from the U.S., Ontario + Québec is one of the easiest “multi-city” trips in Canada: major airports, reliable rail links, and neighborhoods that feel distinct day to day. Plan around one base city (Toronto or Montréal), then add a second city for contrast.
Late spring to early fall for patios + festivals. Winter for holiday vibes and cozy Québec City streets.
5–7 days (Toronto + Montréal) or 8–10 days (add Québec City + extra day trips).
Choose based on your travel style: skyline + food, neighborhoods + museums, or storybook Old Town.
- 5 days: Toronto + Niagara — 3 days Toronto, 1 day Niagara, 1 flexible day for neighborhoods + waterfront.
- 6–7 days: Toronto + Montréal — split 3/3 with one travel day; great for first-timers.
- 8–9 days: Montréal + Québec City — 4 days Montréal, 3 days Québec City, with a relaxed pace.
- 10 days: Toronto + Montréal + Québec City — the full loop with time for day trips and shopping.
Toronto is an easy landing spot with big-city dining, neighborhoods to explore on foot, and lakefront views. Niagara Falls is the obvious add-on—plan it as a day trip or one overnight if you want a slower experience.
- Where to stay: Downtown / Entertainment District (central, walkable), or King West (restaurants + nightlife).
- Must-do: Waterfront walk, neighborhood food crawl, and one “views” moment (tower or skyline viewpoint).
- Niagara tip: Go early, pre-book timed experiences, and consider a stop in Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Montréal is built for wandering—each neighborhood feels like a different trip. Plan around food markets, museum time, and one long walking day where you don’t over-schedule.
- Where to stay: Old Montréal (classic), Plateau/Mile End (local vibe), Downtown (convenient).
- Don’t miss: Old Montréal streets, a market morning, and a viewpoint/park moment.
- Planning tip: Build your itinerary by neighborhood to cut transit time.
Québec City is the “storybook finish” to this trip. It’s compact, scenic, and best enjoyed slowly: long meals, photogenic streets, and a few high-impact sights rather than a packed checklist.
- Where to stay: Old Québec (walk everywhere), or just outside for better value.
- Best vibe: Evening strolls, cozy cafés, and seasonal markets (especially in winter).
- Extra time: Add a day if you want nearby scenic stops or a more relaxed pace.