How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in Ontario, Canada: Toronto, Niagara-on-the-Lake, & Niagara Falls Itinerary
- Adventures of Matt & Nat
- 7 days ago
- 15 min read
Stretching from the Great Lakes to the rugged forests of the Canadian Shield, Ontario is a province that truly has it all — bustling cities, charming small towns, and natural wonders that will take your breath away! It’s home to nearly 40% of Canada’s population, yet somehow still has space to roam. One weekend here can take you from the top of one of the world’s tallest towers to the edge of a roaring waterfall — with world-class dining, scenic drives, and cozy wine-country vibes in between.
In this travel guide, we’re sharing exactly how to spend the perfect weekend in Ontario, covering three of its most iconic destinations: Toronto, Niagara-on-the-Lake, and Niagara Falls. This 3 (ish) day itinerary blends culture, cuisine, and adventure. From eating your way through Toronto’s historic markets to sipping local wine in Niagara-on-the-Lake and experiencing the sheer power of Niagara Falls up close, it’s a weekend you won’t forget!
If you’ve been dreaming of a trip that combines big city excitement, small-town charm, and bucket-list-worthy natural beauty, Ontario delivers all of it (and more) in one easy-to-plan weekend getaway.
⬇️ Want to see this trip in action? ⬇️
Watch our “The Perfect Weekend in Ontario, Canada” video
on YouTube for a closer look at our full experience!
⬇️ Looking for more ways to explore? ⬇️
Check out these GetYourGuide experiences in Ontario, from city tours and winery tastings to Niagara Falls cruises and scenic flights — all bookable in advance with flexible options!
⬇️ Where to Stay in Ontario ⬇️
One of the things we loved most about this trip was getting to experience two completely different sides of Ontario — from the energy of downtown Toronto to the relaxing charm of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Both of our hotels were incredible and perfectly located for exploring each region.
📍 318 Wellington St W, Toronto, ON
Located in Toronto’s vibrant Entertainment District, The SoHo Hotel is a stylish and modern boutique property that feels both luxurious and welcoming. It’s within easy reach of top attractions like the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and St. Lawrence Market — making it an ideal home base for exploring downtown Toronto. We stayed here during our visit and found the rooms to be exceptionally comfortable and quiet, with friendly staff and a convenient central location.
📍 124 Queen St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
In contrast to the big-city buzz of Toronto, 124 on Queen offers cozy, small-town luxury right in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake. The rooms are beautifully designed, breakfast is included, and the on-site spa is one of the best in the region — complete with a hydrotherapy circuit and even an indoor snow room! It’s walking distance to restaurants, shops, and tasting rooms, which makes it easy to explore without ever needing your car.
More Great Stays in Ontario
Whether you’re looking for five-star luxury, boutique comfort, or something budget-friendly, Ontario has no shortage of excellent places to stay. Here are a few more highly rated options to consider:
Toronto:
The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto – A luxurious downtown stay with stunning skyline and lake views, an award-winning spa, and exceptional service — perfect for a splurge-worthy city escape.
The Annex Hotel – Trendy and affordable with a boutique vibe in one of Toronto’s coolest neighborhoods.
Hotel Victoria – A newly renovated hotel in Toronto’s Financial District, just steps from Union Station and St. Lawrence Market. Comfortable rooms, great value, and a prime location make it a fantastic option.
Niagara-on-the-Lake:
Harbour House Hotel – A beautifully renovated boutique hotel overlooking the Niagara River, offering modern elegance, complimentary breakfast, and exceptional service.
Oban Inn – A peaceful boutique retreat with a beautiful garden, cozy spa, and charming views — a favorite for couples.
Best Western Colonel Butler Inn – Budget-friendly, well-rated, and just a short walk from downtown NOTL.
Niagara Falls:
Sterling Inn & Spa – A sophisticated boutique hotel offering spacious rooms, fireplaces, rainfall showers, and an on-site fine dining restaurant — a luxurious and romantic choice near the falls.
Marriott Fallsview Hotel & Spa – Panoramic views of Horseshoe Falls right from your room, plus a relaxing spa and excellent on-site dining options.
Vittoria Hotel & Suites – Modern rooms, excellent service, and an unbeatable location for the price.
Or use the interactive map below to explore more places to:
Quick Tips for Visiting Ontario
If it’s your first time visiting Ontario, here are a few helpful tips to make your trip smoother:
Getting from the Airport to Downtown Toronto:
The easiest way to get from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to downtown is on the UP Express. The train runs every 15 minutes, takes just 25 minutes to reach Union Station, and costs around $12 CAD per adult. It’s fast, clean, and far cheaper (and often quicker) than a taxi or rideshare.
Currency:
Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s handy to carry a small amount of cash for markets, tips, or small purchases — especially in smaller towns like Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Language & Etiquette:
English is the primary language in Ontario, and Canadians are known for being friendly and polite. A simple “thank you” (or even better, “thanks so much!”) goes a long way here.
Tipping:
Similar to the U.S., tipping is customary in restaurants, cafés, and for services like tours or taxis. The standard rate is 15–20% of the bill.
Weather & Packing:
Ontario’s weather can be unpredictable (especially in spring and fall), so pack layers and a light rain jacket. Even summer evenings can be cool near the water, particularly around Niagara.
Day 1: Toronto – CN Tower 360 Restaurant
7:00 PM: Dinner at the CN Tower’s 360 Restaurant
📍 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON
There’s no better way to kick off your Ontario weekend than with dinner high above the city skyline. The 360 Restaurant at the CN Tower is one of Toronto’s most iconic dining experiences, where you literally revolve 1,100 feet above the ground as you eat. The menu features Canadian-inspired dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, and the panoramic views stretch from the glittering skyscrapers of downtown to the shores of Lake Ontario.
We’d recommend arriving about 15 minutes before your reservation so you can check in, ride the elevator to the top, and snag a window seat if possible. After dinner, make sure to explore the Main Observation Level, which is included with your meal — it’s the perfect way to see Toronto all lit up at night.
Fun Fact: The CN Tower’s wine cellar, known as the “Cellar in the Sky,” holds the Guinness World Record for being the highest wine cellar in the world at 1,151 feet above the ground!
Day 2: Toronto – Local Bites, Skyline Views, and Historic Districts
9:00 AM: VIP Early-Access Food Tour at St. Lawrence Market
📍 93 Front St E, Toronto, ON
Start your morning at one of the best food markets in the world… St. Lawrence Market! This historic spot has been feeding Toronto for over 200 years and is home to more than 120 vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to artisan pastries. We joined a VIP Early-Access Food Tour with Culinary Adventure Co. before the crowds arrived, giving us the chance to chat with local vendors and sample Toronto’s most iconic bites, including the city’s famous Peameal Bacon Sandwich, buttery pastries, smoky salmon, and freshly shucked oysters.
Fun Fact: National Geographic once ranked St. Lawrence Market as the #1 food market in the world back in 2012!
12:30 PM: Scenic Cruise on Lake Ontario with City Cruises
📍 207 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON
After filling up at the market, head to Toronto’s waterfront for a scenic one-hour Sightseeing Harbour Tour with City Cruises. It’s a relaxing and fun way to see the city from the water, complete with live narration, fun facts, and some of the best skyline views in town. As you cruise through the inner harbor, you’ll pass landmarks like the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, Sugar Beach, and the Toronto Islands, all while learning more about the city’s history and character. There’s also a fully licensed bar on board for drinks and snacks, and both indoor and outdoor decks make it comfortable in any season. Book your tickets HERE!
Pro Tip: The upper deck offers the best photo spots, especially for capturing the full Toronto skyline.
2:00 PM: Nathan Phillips Square & the Toronto Sign
📍 100 Queen St W, Toronto, ON
Make a quick stop at Nathan Phillips Square, one of the city’s most photographed spots. This lively plaza is home to the famous illuminated “TORONTO” sign, framed perfectly by the curved towers of New City Hall and the historic clock tower of Old City Hall just across the street. It’s a great place to snap a photo, take in the contrast of old and new architecture, and see locals skating in the winter or relaxing by the reflecting pool in warmer months.
Pro Tip: For the best shot, stand toward the west end of the square — you’ll get both city halls and the full “TORONTO” sign in one frame.
3:00 PM: Explore the Historic Distillery District
📍 55 Mill St, Toronto, ON
Spend your afternoon wandering the Distillery District, a beautifully preserved 19th-century neighborhood filled with cobblestone streets, art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. For a quick pick-me-up, we stopped at Balzac’s Coffee Roasters, a cozy spot set inside a restored Victorian Pump House from 1895 that feels straight out of a movie set. Their lattes (coffee and chai) and were the perfect afternoon treat before continuing to explore.
If you’re a sports fan (or just love a good dose of nostalgia), don’t miss The Sport Gallery — a fantastic shop specializing in vintage-style sports merchandise and memorabilia. From retro team jerseys to classic hockey posters, it’s a must-visit for anyone who appreciates timeless design and a little Canadiana.
6:00 PM: Dinner at El Catrin
📍 18 Tank House Ln, Toronto, ON
For dinner, we headed to El Catrin, one of the Distillery District’s most popular restaurants, and for good reason! This lively spot serves up modern Mexican cuisine in a vibrant setting filled with massive murals, colorful tiles, and Toronto’s largest selection of tequila and mezcal!
We started with the Margarita Flight, which lets you sample 4 of their most popular flavors (the hibiscus and tamarind were our favorites!). Then came their famous tableside guacamole, freshly mashed to your liking, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even add in crickets for a crunchy, authentic twist! The esquite (creamy Mexican street corn) and Al Pastor tacos were bursting with flavor (and a bit of spice!), and to top it all off, the churros were to die for — golden, crispy, and served with decadent dipping sauces that we’re still dreaming about!
Pro Tip: If the weather’s nice, ask for a spot on the patio. It’s one of the most beautiful outdoor dining spaces in the city!
BONUS: Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)
📍 Various venues throughout the city
We ended the night with a once-in-a-lifetime experience at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. The atmosphere was electric — fans lined the streets, red carpets rolled out, and film lovers from around the globe gathered to celebrate cinema! If your trip coincides with TIFF (held each September), it’s absolutely worth checking out a premiere or special screening.
Fun Fact: TIFF has premiered hundreds of award-winning films, including the most recent Oscar–winning films, Slumdog Millionaire, The King’s Speech, 12 Years a Slave, and La La Land.
Day 3: Niagara-on-the-Lake – Coffee, Vineyards, and Smalltown Charm
9:30 AM: Breakfast at French Made Toronto
📍 80 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON
Before hitting the road to wine country, we grabbed a quick coffee, tea, and pastry from French Made Toronto, a charming café tucked inside the Bisha Hotel. Their pastries are buttery perfection, and the lattes (espresso and chai) are smooth and rich, which is exactly what we needed before making the nearly 2-hour (80-mile) journey to Niagara-on-the-Lake!
Pro Tip: Get your order to-go and enjoy it on the drive. You’ll pass through beautiful countryside and rolling vineyards as you approach the Niagara region.
12:00 PM: Lunch at Two Sisters Vineyards
📍 240 John St E, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Our first stop in Niagara-on-the-Lake was Two Sisters Vineyards, one of the most loved wineries in the region. The Italian-inspired estate is family-owned and surrounded by rows of grapevines that stretch as far as you can see. We had lunch at their on-site restaurant (Kitchen 76), where every dish is made with locally sourced ingredients and paired beautifully with their award-winning wines. The setting is upscale yet relaxed, boasting vineyard views and that unmistakable Ontario charm. Their house Lush Sparkling Rosé is a must-try if you’re visiting during the warmer months!
Fun Fact: Two Sisters Vineyards was awarded Best Small Winery in Canada, and after tasting their wine, we can see why!
2:00 PM: Tour & Tasting at Château des Charmes Winery
📍 1025 York Rd, St. Davids, ON
Next, we visited Château des Charmes, a family-run winery that’s been part of Niagara’s wine scene since 1978. The tour here is a great way to learn about the winemaking process — from grape to glass — and see the beautiful barrel rooms and vineyards up close. We loved how personal the experience felt; the staff are very knowledgeable and passionate about what they do. Their Brut Sparkling Wine and Barrel Aged Chardonnay were some of our favorites!
4:00 PM: Explore Niagara-on-the-Lake
📍 Downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake, Queen St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
After our winery visits, we checked into 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa and spent the rest of the afternoon exploring downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake (AKA NOTL). This charming area looks like something out of a Hallmark movie — flower-lined streets, boutique shops, horse-drawn carriages, and historic buildings everywhere you turn! We popped into a few local stores, strolled through Queen’s Royal Park for views of Lake Ontario, and even spotted the Toronto skyline across the water! If you have time, grab a scoop from one of the local ice cream parlors, a drink from one of the local breweries (we enjoyed The Exchange Brewery), or just wander around. This town was made for slow, scenic afternoons and sunset strolls.
Fun Fact: Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to the Niagara-on-the-Lake Golf Club, the oldest golf course in continuous operation in North America! There's a waterfront bar/restaurant there if you fancy a drink or bite while you take in the views.
7:30 PM: Dinner at Aura on the Lake
📍 233 King St # 3, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
For dinner, we switched things up with a little international flavor at Aura on the Lake, a contemporary Indian restaurant just steps from the main street. The food was delicious and the service was warm and inviting. We went pretty basic with our order, but the Butter Chicken and Tikka Masala were both wonderful, and the basmati rice and garlic naan were the perfect complements. To cap off the meal, we got their Masala Chai Creme Brulee, and let me tell you, it was outstanding!
Day 4: Niagara Falls and Beyond – Adventure, Views, and Sweet Treats
9:00 AM: Morning Coffee at 124 on Queen
📍 124 Queen St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
We started our final day bright and early with to-go coffees and pastries from the Starbucks inside 124 on Queen Hotel & Spa. I know, I know… Not our proudest moment since we typically like to support local, but it was in the name of efficiency… And convenience! It was a quick and easy way to fuel up before a full day of adventure, and trust us, you’ll want that caffeine for what’s ahead! That said, if you prefer a more formal breakfast, you can pay a fee to have breakfast at Treadwell Cuisine (one of the 2 on-site restaurants) included with your stay. Just note that the restaurant doesn't open until 8 AM.
10:00 AM: Whirlpool Aero Car
📍 3850 Niagara Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON
Our first stop was the Whirlpool Aero Car, a century-old cable car that carries passengers high above the swirling Niagara Whirlpool! Suspended more than 200 feet over the water, it’s one of those experiences that’s both thrilling and peaceful, offering panoramic views of the Niagara River as it cuts through the gorge.
Quick tip... If you plan to do more than one or two of the Niagara Parks Attractions, we recommend getting the Adventure Passes to make the most of your time and money.
For more info and to purchase your pass, CLICK HERE!
Fun Fact: Even though the Aero Car never touches U.S. soil, it actually crosses the Canada–U.S. border six times during the ride, no passport required!
11:00 AM: Niagara Parks Power Station + The Tunnel
📍 7005 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON
Next, we descended 180 feet below ground to explore The Tunnel at the historic Niagara Parks Power Station. This newly opened attraction takes you through the underground passages that once carried water used to generate hydroelectric power for the region, ending with a breathtaking view from a new observation deck right at the river’s edge!
While The Tunnel is definitely the star of the show, the Power Station museum upstairs is also worth exploring. It offers fascinating exhibits, restored turbines, and interactive displays that explain how engineers first harnessed the immense energy of the falls to power nearby cities. The combination of history, innovation, and natural beauty makes this one of the most unique experiences in Niagara. Book your tickets HERE!
Pro Tip: Bring a light jacket because temperatures stay cool underground, even in summer.
12:30 PM: Walk Along the Niagara River Parkway
📍 Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Falls, ON
After exploring The Tunnel and the Power Station museum, we took some time to stroll along the Niagara River Parkway, one of the most beautiful drives, and in this case, walks, in all of Canada. This scenic route winds alongside the Niagara River from Fort Erie to Niagara-on-the-Lake, but we’ll just be walking the short, 1-mile stretch between Niagara Parks Power Station and our next stop. But don’t worry! There are plenty of peaceful lookout points and postcard-worthy views along the way!
Fun Fact: Sir Winston Churchill once called the Niagara Parkway “the prettiest Sunday afternoon drive in the world.”
1:15 PM: Zipline to the Falls
📍 5920 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON
If you’re looking for a little adrenaline, this one’s for you! The Zipline to the Falls takes you soaring 2,200 feet toward the base of Horseshoe Falls, and the views are absolutely epic! It’s fast and fun, giving you a totally unique perspective of one of the world’s most famous waterfalls! Book your tickets HERE!
Pro Tip: Save yourself some time and buy the skip-the-line ticket. Also, if you loved it so much and you want to go again… You can ride a second time for just $15 CAD, and it comes with skip-the-line privileges!
2:30 PM: Niagara City Cruises (formerly Hornblower)
📍 5920 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON
You can’t visit Niagara Falls without getting up close to it, and there’s no better way to do that than aboard Niagara City Cruises (formerly Hornblower)! This 20-minute boat tour takes you right into the mist of the Horseshoe Falls, complete with ponchos and plenty of “wow” moments.
We absolutely loved this experience… way more than we expected! Standing at the very front of the boat, we were completely surrounded by the roar of the falls and the mist spraying in every direction! We were also soaked by the end of it (even with the ponchos), but it was hands-down one of the highlights of the entire day! If you’d rather stay dry (and don’t mind giving up those jaw-dropping views), there’s a covered indoor section on board. Book your tickets HERE!
Fun Fact: Each second, over 700,000 gallons of water plunge over the edge of Horseshoe Falls, and you’ll have a front row seat to the show!
3:15 PM: Lunch at Grand View Restaurant
📍 5920 River Rd, Niagara Falls, ON
After the cruise, we grabbed a quick bite at Grand View Restaurant, which lives up to its name with incredible views overlooking the falls. The casual menu and open-air patio make it a great spot to rest, refuel, and soak in one of the views. That said, heads up: the food itself is pretty average and definitely on the pricier side (you’re mostly paying for the view and convenience here). If you’re hungry and want a convenient spot to sit down and dry off after the boat ride, it does the trick, just don’t go in expecting a culinary masterpiece.
4:15 PM: Helicopter Tour with Niagara Helicopters
📍 3731 Victoria Ave, Niagara Falls, ON
Just when we thought the day couldn’t get any better, we took to the skies with Niagara Helicopters for a bird’s-eye view of the falls. The short flight circles above Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Niagara River — and seeing them all from above is nothing short of breathtaking. Book your tickets HERE!
Pro Tip: Try to book your helicopter ride for late afternoon when the lighting is softer — it makes the water look even more vibrant in photos.
4:45 PM: Walker’s Country Market
📍 15796 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
On the drive back to Niagara-on-the-Lake, we made a sweet stop at Walker’s Country Market, a local favorite known for their Grape Pie and Butter Tarts. Both are Ontario classics and the perfect souvenir for your taste buds — though, if we’re honest, ours didn’t last long enough to make it home.
Just next door, you’ll also find the Living Water Wayside Chapel, which is recognized as one of the smallest chapels in the world. It’s tiny, picturesque, and such a fun hidden gem to see along the Niagara Parkway.
FYI: Walker’s Country Market closes at 5 PM daily, so it may be a stretch to squeeze this stop in, but if you can, you won’t regret it!
6:00 PM: Dinner at NOTL Bar & Restaurant
📍 124 Queen St, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
After a quick freshen up at the hotel, we decided to have our final dinner at NOTL Bar & Restaurant, conveniently located inside our hotel at 124 on Queen. The menu focuses on locally sourced, seasonal dishes with a modern twist, and of course, the wine selection is excellent! We are in wine country after all! The ricotta ravioli and the steak frites were excellent, and be sure to finish off with a local treat, Ice Wine!
8:00 PM: Niagara Falls Illumination & Fireworks
📍 6342 Niagara River Pkwy, Niagara Falls, ON
To end the trip on a high note, we drove back to Niagara Falls for the nighttime illumination show, where the cascading water is lit in vibrant colors that change every few minutes. During the summer and fall, fireworks light up the sky right above the falls… an incredible way to end a perfect weekend in Ontario!
Fun Fact: The Niagara Falls illumination began in 1925 and now uses over 1,400 LED lights to create the dazzling display you see today!
And that’s how to spend the perfect weekend in Ontario — from dining above Toronto’s skyline to sipping wine in Niagara-on-the-Lake and feeling the mist of Niagara Falls on your face. This trip truly captures the best of what Ontario has to offer: vibrant cities, charming small towns, and some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in Canada.
We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable Ontario getaway of your own! If it did, be sure to follow us on Instagram for more travel inspiration and behind-the-scenes moments, and subscribe to our YouTube channel for in-depth travel guides and vlogs from around the world.
Happy travels, and we’ll see you on the next adventure!
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