Toronto Holidays
Cool and cosmopolitan, Toronto is loved for its mix of gravity-defying skyscrapers, leafy parks and picturesque scenes of Lake Ontario. As one of the most culturally diverse cities on the planet, its galleries, theaters and heritage sites blend together to provide you with a unique and cultured atmosphere.
You’ll find it hard to visit Toronto without seeing the CN Tower: it dominates the city skyline. Travel 447 metres up to the SkyPod at the top, and you’ll be treated to the most incredible views across Toronto. If you love history then why not step back in time with a walk around Casa Loma? This is an Edwardian castle on top of a hill overlooking Toronto. Also check out Canada’s largest museum, the ‘Royal Ontario’. With six million objects in its 40 galleries, you can immerse yourself in art, world culture, and natural history. Toronto is also home to one of Canada’s most bustling music scenes, Roy Thomson Hall, which provides captivating performances that are a real treat for your ears.
A city with lakeside charm
If you’re looking to enjoy a little retail therapy, Toronto offers one of the best shopping areas in the world. A visit to the Eaton Centre should definitely be on your list. Yorkville and Queen Street are also great shopping spots. Catch the ferry to Toronto Islands to wander the trails and beaches for an off-the-beaten-track excursion. For dinner and drinks, explore the historical Distillery District, now home to the city’s best restaurants, bars and breweries. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try a spot of sightseeing with a twist? Kayak across Lake Ontario and feast your eyes on the glittering city from across the water - this is a picture-perfect moment.
There is so much to see and do during your holiday in Toronto, no matter what time of the year you visit. Contact our Destination Specialists today to plan the perfect tailor-made Toronto holiday.
Destination Highlights
Great sample itineraries
We’ve created an inspiring selection of itineraries that can be included during your Toronto holiday. Almost anything is possible so please give us a call to discuss all your options.
Canadian Contrasts Tour
Guide Price £3,399 pp
Discover the wonders of Canada on our Canadian Contrasts tour, which entails a unique journey from the East to the West of this magnificent country. The tour incorporates Canada’s top sights; from exploring vibrant cities to observing the marvellous Niagara...
Adventure holidays
Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City Multi Centre
Guide Price £2,099 pp
See the very best that Eastern Canada has to offer on this amazing multi centre itinerary taking in the region's top cities. Begin in Ontario with a stay in Canada's cosmopolitan entertainment capital Toronto , located on the shores of...
Multi centre holidays
Heritage Trail Tour
Guide Price £2,199 pp
Your Canada Heritage Trail self drive begins in Toronto, Ontario’s capital city. The city is where you’ll find a variety of incredible must-sees, including the CN Tower, which looms overhead at 553 metres tall. From there, you’ll travel to Kingston...
Self drive holidays
Toronto, Niagara Falls and New York Multi Centre
Guide Price £1,499 pp
Visit the dreamy destinations of Toronto, Niagara Falls and New York in one holiday for a trip of a lifetime. This itinerary is fantastic for first time visitors to Canada as it includes trips to the country’s much loved city...
Family holidays
Our favourite hotels
Whether you are planning a family holiday in Toronto or an adventurous Toronto multi-centre holiday, let us help you find the perfect accommodation with our recommendations below.
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Known as Canada's 'Entertainment Capital', there is no shortage of fantastic things to see and do in this sprawling city. Kayak around Lake Ontario, see the latest big musical, take the family to the amazing Ripley's Aquarium or take a food tasting tour around the historic Distillery District - the opportunities are endless.
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![a clock that is on a pole on a city street]( "Distillery District")
Toronto Distilleries
Ever wonder what a backseat was? Or what’s the difference between a Pot Still & a Coffey Still? Get to know tasting terms, production types and find out what exactly is the “Angels Share”. From traditional Irish Pubs to sleek modern distilleries - take a tour of any of Toronto's fantastic establishments to go behind the scenes and, of course, to sample award-winning beers, whiskies and gin. Start in the city's historic Distillery District for some drink history and tales of prohibition era Toronto, stroll through the old Bordello District for some of the most lively pubs and bars before stopping at a turn of the century hotel before slipping into Chef’s secret cellar for a sip of Al Capone's favourite whiskey.
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![a group of people standing in front of a store]( "St Lawrence Market")
St. Lawrence Market & Old Town Toronto
Discover the captivating history and culture of St. Lawrence Market and Old town - areas that have stood longer than Toronto itself. Over 200 years ago First Nations peoples would trade goods from war canoes and fish for salmon on the shores of Lake Ontario just behind where the market stands today. In 2012, it was named best market in the world by National Geographic thanks to its vibrant blend of multi-cultural cuisines - there aren't many markets where you'd be able to sample Portuguese treats, authentic Jewish bagels, Indian Candy, local Ontario Cheeses, Wild Game, Mustards, and genuine Ukranian Perogies all in one place.
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![a man riding a bicycle next to a body of water]( "Biking on Toronto Islands")
Toronto Islands
Take the short ferry ride across Toronto's inner harbour over to Toronto Islands - a world away from the bustling city, explore car-free neighbourhoods, tree-filled picnic spots, quaint old cottages and sandy beaches. Made up of three major islands - Centre, Ward’s and Algonquin – with winding paths, small bridges and boardwalks to connect them. We love the relaxed vibe of Algonquin 1920's summer cottages and charming English style gardens. The most popular spot, especially with families with kids, is Centre Island, which features huge picnic areas, bike paths, a maze, a beach and award-winning gardens. The best way to discover these islands is on a twilight bicycle tour after dusk for incredible views of the Toronto skyline as it lights up for the evening.
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![Niagara Falls]( "Niagara Falls")
Niagara Falls
Located just two hours drive from Toronto along the shores of Lake Ontario, discover one of the most breath taking natural wonders of the world - Niagara Falls. Straddling the boarder between Canada and the USA, the spectacular sight of these thundering waters are one of the biggest draws for visitors to Toronto. Take a once-in-a-lifetime helicopter tour over the falls for an incredible bird's eye view or experience the traditional 'Journey to the Falls' Hornblower cruise.
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![a bridge over a body of water with a city in the background]( "Toronto Skyline at Night")
CN Tower
Soaring high above the Toronto skyline is the CN Tower, it may not be the tallest building in the world but it still remains the iconic symbol of Toronto. Take a glass-fronted lift up 342 metres to the LookOut floor, or 447 metres up to the SkyPod for 360-degree views of up to 100 miles. If your lucky enough to visit on a clear day, you'll be able to spot Niagara Falls in the distance.
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Charlotte
Destination Specialist
“Dare yourself to attempt the edgewalk at the CN Tower for unbeatable city views.”
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Melissa
Destination Specialist
“A trip to the famous St. Lawrence Market is an absolute must. Make sure that you visit with an appetite! The market is a bustling food Mecca located right in the heart of the downtown district, and the perfect way to spend an afternoon.”
Events & Festivals
Festivals and events are wonderful to include during your Toronto holiday, offering a glimpse into the country’s authentic culture and traditions.
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Toronto Summer Music Festival
Over the course of four weeks in July, the Toronto Summer Music Festival features 50+ public events including 28 mainstage concerts performed by renowned Canadian and international artists. There are also master classes, lectures, workshops, and free outreach concerts for you to enjoy.
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Toronto International Film Festival
The Toronto International Film Festival in September is one of the largest publicly attended film festivals in the world, featuring 18 Gala Presentations and 38 Special Presentations. Discover and discuss cinema with expert guests and enjoy the variety of film-based entertainment on offer.
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Toronto Christmas Market
Enjoy the tradition, heritage and charm of a European Christmas Market, right in the heart of Toronto. Set in the cobblestone-lined Distillery District, this market brings together local craftspeople, musicians and artisanal food-makers for a truly festive experience. Sip on mulled wine as you browse through a selection of handmade ornaments and crafts, then cozy up by the fire and be serenaded by carollers.
Local Cuisine
Get a flavour of the local culture through your palate during your Toronto holiday. Here are a few of our favourite foodie hotspots and dishes.
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Peameal bacon sandwich
Head to St Lawrence Market for a peameal bacon sandwich from Carousel Bakery. The peameal bacon sandwich is made up of a fresh-baked bun, spicy mustard and a generous serving of grilled bacon.
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Poutine
Indulgent, gooey and cheesy, Poutine is a Canadian national treasure. Many spots in the city make this dish, but Poutini’s House of Poutine is known for some of the best. Gravy, cheese curds and hand-cut fries is the traditional order. If you’re feeling indulgent, add some delicious smoked meat.
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Nanaimo
Nanaimo is a three-layer, no-bake cake is named after Nanaimo in British Columbia. This mixture of custard powder, graham cracker crumbs and cocoa has found itself on the shelves of coffee shops and fine-dining menus alike. The Distillery District’s Brick Street Bakery makes a superb version of this treat - best enjoyed while strolling the area’s cobblestone streets.
