Eastern Canada Grand Tour: Toronto to Quebec City Adventure

Day 1

Toronto

Arrival in Toronto - Urban Energy Begins

Toronto Pearson International Airport - Arrival - Soho Hotel Toronto - Check-in & Refresh - Nathan Phillips Square - Toronto Welcome - CF Toronto Eaton Centre - Urban Shopping Stroll - Little India Restaurant - Welcome Dinner - Soho Hotel Toronto - Evening Rest

Day 2

Toronto

Toronto Icons - Sky-High Views & Cultural Gems

Soho Hotel Toronto - Morning Start - CN Tower - Sky-High Adventure - Ripley's Aquarium - Underwater Wonders - Little India Restaurant - Authentic Lunch - Art Gallery of Ontario - Cultural Immersion - Little Canada - Miniature Marvel - Canoe Restaurant & Bar - Elevated Dining

Day 3

Niagara Falls - Toronto - Ottawa

Niagara Falls Adventure & Journey to Ottawa

Soho Hotel Toronto - Morning Departure - Niagara Falls Canada - Horseshoe Falls Viewing - Niagara Falls - Journey Behind the Falls Experience - Ginger Niagara Falls Restaurant - Lunch Break - Niagara Falls State Park - Scenic Trails & Photo Ops

Day 4

Ottawa

Ottawa - Parliament & Political Power

Arc The Hotel - Morning Start - Parliament Hill - Canada's Political Heart - Ottawa Locks - Engineering Marvel Walk - Colonnade Pizza Restaurant - Power Lunch - National Gallery of Canada - Art & Architecture - Rideau Canal - UNESCO Heritage Stroll - ByWard Market - Historic Market Experience - Sur Lie French Restaurant - Elegant Dinner

Day 5

Ottawa - Montreal

Ottawa Exploration & Journey to Montreal

Arc The Hotel - Morning Checkout - The Glebe - Neighborhood Stroll & Shopping - Ottawa Art Gallery - Contemporary Canadian Art - Aiana Restaurant Collective - Farewell Ottawa Lunch - Ottawa Train Station - VIA Rail Departure - Montreal Central Station - Arrival - LHotel Montreal - Check-in & Settle - Old Montreal - Evening Stroll & Discovery - Restaurant Bonaparte - First Montreal Dinner

Day 6

Montreal

Montreal Magic - Old World Meets New

LHotel Montreal - Morning Start - Notre-Dame Basilica - Gothic Masterpiece - Old Montreal Walking Discovery - Restaurant Bonaparte - French Lunch - Old Port of Montreal - Waterfront Stroll - Pointe-à-Callière Archaeology Museum - Restaurant Bis - Contemporary Dinner

Day 7

Montreal - Quebec City

Montreal Heights & Quebec City Bound

LHotel Montreal - Morning Checkout - Mount Royal Park - Summit Views & Nature Walk - Jean-Talon Market - Culinary Treasures - Gare Centrale Montreal - VIA Rail Station - Hotel Port-Royal Quebec City - Evening Check-in - Restaurant Legende - Quebec Cuisine Welcome

Day 8

Quebec City

Quebec City - Fortified European Charm

Hotel Port-Royal - Morning in Old Quebec - Old Quebec Historic District - Morning Stroll - Parliament Building & Gardens Exploration - Restaurant Taniere3 - Fine Dining Lunch Experience - Old Quebec Funicular Ride - Upper to Lower Town - Place Royale - Birthplace of French America - Quartier Petit Champlain - Shopping & Charm - La Citadelle de Quebec - Military Fortress Tour - Restaurant Legende - Boreal Cuisine Dinner - Hotel Port-Royal - Evening Return

Day 9

Quebec City

Quebec City Final Day - Plains & Falls Adventure

Hotel Port-Royal - Morning Departure - Chez Boulay-Bistro Boreal - Hearty Breakfast - Parliament Building & Gardens Exploration - Old Quebec Stroll & Plains of Abraham - Montmorency Falls - Nature's Grand Finale - Restaurant Taniere3 - Farewell Feast - Hotel Port-Royal - Final Night Rest

Day 10

Quebec City

Departure Day - Au Revoir, Canada!

Hotel Port-Royal - Morning Checkout - Café du Clocher Penché - Farewell Breakfast - Old Quebec - Final Stroll & Souvenir Shopping - Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport - Departure

Day 1

May 10

Toronto

Arrival in Toronto - Urban Energy Begins

Touch down in Canada's largest city! After arriving at 2 PM via TAP Air Portugal, settle into your downtown Toronto hotel and dive straight into the city's vibrant energy. Explore the iconic Entertainment District, walk along the harbourfront, and experience your first taste of multicultural Toronto dining.

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Moderate

Pace Level

USD 972

Estimated Cost

Land at Toronto Pearson International Airport - Arrival

33.97km, 2 hours 18 mins

Suggested check-in16:30(1 hour)

1.52km, 21 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour(18:00 - 19:00)

Tips: The TORONTO sign is one of the most photographed spots in the city - evening light makes for beautiful photos with the illuminated City Hall as backdrop!

740m, 11 mins

Enjoy fun for45 mins(19:15 - 20:00)

Tips: The Eaton Centre connects to Toronto's underground PATH system - a 30km network of underground walkways perfect for exploring when weather isn't cooperating!

990m, 15 mins

Enjoy foods for1 hour 30 mins(20:15 - 21:45)

800m, 15 mins

Suggested check-in22:00(11 hours)

Day 2

May 11

Toronto

Toronto Icons - Sky-High Views & Cultural Gems

Conquer Toronto's most famous landmarks! Start with the breathtaking CN Tower for panoramic city views, explore the diverse exhibits at the Royal Ontario Museum, wander through the historic Distillery District's cobblestone streets, and discover the bustling St. Lawrence Market. Evening brings you to the vibrant neighborhoods for dinner and nightlife.

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Active

Pace Level

USD 700

Estimated Cost

Return to Soho Hotel Toronto - Morning Start

700m, 10 mins

Enjoy fun for2 hours 30 mins(09:30 - 12:00)

Tips: Book your tickets online in advance to skip the lines! The best photos are in the morning light, and if you're feeling adventurous, the EdgeWalk experience lets you walk hands-free around the tower's edge at 1,168 feet high.

150m, 3 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 30 mins(12:15 - 13:45)

Tips: The Dangerous Lagoon tunnel is mesmerizing - take your time walking through. Visit the touch tanks to get hands-on with stingrays and horseshoe crabs!

1.24km, 18 mins

Enjoy foods for1 hour(14:00 - 15:00)

650m, 10 mins

Enjoy fun for2 hours 30 mins(15:30 - 18:00)

Tips: Wednesday and Friday evenings the museum stays open until 9 PM - great for avoiding crowds. The AGO Bistro is lovely if you need a coffee break!

1.3km, 7 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 30 mins(18:30 - 20:00)

Tips: Look for the hidden details and Easter eggs throughout the displays - the animations are incredibly clever! Open until 7:30 PM, so perfect for early evening.

1.25km, 18 mins

Enjoy foods for2 hours(20:30 - 22:30)

1.04km, 15 mins

Day 3

May 12

Niagara Falls - Toronto - Ottawa

Niagara Falls Adventure & Journey to Ottawa

An action-packed day combining one of the world's natural wonders with inter-city travel! Start early with a day trip to the magnificent Niagara Falls (1.5 hours from Toronto), experience the thundering power from multiple viewpoints, explore the entertainment district, then return to Toronto to catch your evening transportation to Ottawa. This intense day balances natural beauty with efficient travel logistics.

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Intense

Pace Level

USD 1,070

Estimated Cost

Return to Soho Hotel Toronto - Morning Departure

128.5km, 1 hour 29 mins

Enjoy fun for2 hours 30 mins(09:00 - 11:30)

Tips: Arrive early (before 10 AM) to beat the crowds! The mist creates natural rainbows on sunny mornings - perfect for photos. The boardwalk can get slippery, so watch your step.

3.56km, 50 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 15 mins(11:45 - 13:00)

Tips: They provide yellow ponchos, but you'll still get wet - embrace it! The tunnels can be cool even in May, but the adrenaline rush keeps you warm. Don't miss the outdoor platform at the base!

2.5km, 36 mins

Enjoy foods for1 hour(13:15 - 14:15)

2.14km, 9 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 30 mins(14:30 - 16:00)

Tips: Bring your passport to cross into the US side! The Rainbow Bridge crossing offers fantastic views. The gorge trails can be steep - wear proper shoes. This gives you bragging rights for seeing the falls from both countries!

128.66km, 1 hour 36 mins

Day 4

May 13

Ottawa

Ottawa - Parliament & Political Power

Immerse yourself in Canadian political history and culture! Tour the majestic Parliament Buildings with their Gothic Revival architecture, explore world-class museums, stroll along the historic Rideau Canal (UNESCO World Heritage Site), and experience the lively ByWard Market. This day perfectly balances Canada's political heritage with its vibrant capital city culture.

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Active

Pace Level

USD 390

Estimated Cost

Suggested check-in08:00(1 hour)

2.4km, 30 mins

Enjoy fun for2 hours 30 mins(09:30 - 12:00)

Tips: Book your free tour online in advance! Security screening takes time, so arrive 15 minutes early. If Parliament is in session, you might catch Question Period - it's like watching a political theatre show!

800m, 15 mins

Enjoy fun for30 mins(12:15 - 12:45)

Tips: Watch for boats passing through - the lock operators still work them manually using century-old techniques. Great photo opportunity with Parliament Buildings in the background!

1.25km, 19 mins

Enjoy foods for1 hour(13:00 - 14:00)

1.8km, 30 mins

Enjoy fun for2 hours(14:30 - 16:30)

Tips: Don't miss the reconstructed Rideau Street Convent Chapel inside - it's a hidden gem! The gallery has free admission on Thursdays 5-8pm, but you're there Tuesday so entry is ~$20 CAD.

900m, 15 mins

Enjoy fun for45 mins(16:45 - 17:30)

Tips: The pathway along the canal connects most major attractions - use it as your scenic highway between sites. Look for the Rideau Canal Festival if it's happening during your visit!

1.2km, 15 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 45 mins(17:45 - 19:30)

Tips: Try a BeaverTail pastry from the original location - it's an Ottawa institution! The market stays lively into the evening with restaurants and bars, making it great for both day and night visits.

500m, 15 mins

Enjoy foods for1 hour 45 mins(19:45 - 21:30)

1.55km, 23 mins

Day 5

May 14

Ottawa - Montreal

Ottawa Exploration & Journey to Montreal

Complete your Ottawa experience with morning exploration of the charming Glebe neighborhood and Ottawa Art Gallery before catching the scenic VIA Rail train to Montreal. Arrive in Canada's cultural capital in the late afternoon, settle into your boutique hotel in Old Montreal, and enjoy your first evening wandering the historic cobblestone streets and experiencing Montreal's renowned dining scene.

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Moderate

Pace Level

USD 695

Estimated Cost

Return to Arc The Hotel - Morning Checkout

5.5km, 15 mins

1.69km, 24 mins

Enjoy fun for2 hours(10:30 - 12:30)

Tips: Hit up Bridgehead Coffee (a local Ottawa chain) for some of the city's best fair-trade coffee, and check out Singing Pebble Books for Canadian literature finds!

2.57km, 37 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour(12:45 - 13:45)

Tips: The gallery is open until 6 PM on weekdays, but an hour is perfect for the highlights. Free admission on Thursday evenings if you're ever back!

1.04km, 15 mins

Enjoy foods for1 hour(14:00 - 15:00)

190m, 4 mins

Enjoy fun for30 mins(16:00 - 16:30)

Tips: Grab snacks and drinks at the station before boarding. The train has a cafe car, but it's pricier. Window seats on either side offer great views of the Ottawa River!

165km, 2 hours

Enjoy fun for15 mins(18:30 - 18:45)

Tips: The station connects directly to the Metro - take the Orange Line towards Côte-Vertu, transfer at Berri-UQAM to get to Old Montreal quickly!

3.2km, 15 mins

Suggested check-in19:15(45 mins)

240m, 4 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour(20:15 - 21:15)

Tips: Old Montreal is safest and most atmospheric in the evening. The area around Rue Saint-Paul and Place Jacques-Cartier is particularly charming with outdoor cafes and buskers!

30m, 1 min

Enjoy foods for1 hour 30 mins(21:30 - 23:00)

280m, 4 mins

Day 6

May 15

Montreal

Montreal Magic - Old World Meets New

Immerse yourself in Montreal's captivating blend of European elegance and North American energy. From the breathtaking Notre-Dame Basilica to the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal, today is filled with architectural marvels, cultural discoveries, and culinary delights. Experience the city's famous joie de vivre as you explore historic quarters and trendy neighborhoods.

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Active

Pace Level

USD 571

Estimated Cost

Return to LHotel Montreal - Morning Start

1.93km, 10 mins

300m, 5 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 30 mins(09:15 - 10:45)

Tips: Arrive right at opening (9 AM) to beat the crowds and enjoy the peaceful morning light streaming through the stained glass. The 20-minute light and sound show 'AURA' costs extra but is worth every penny if you have time later.

100m, 2 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 45 mins(10:45 - 12:30)

Tips: Stop by Place Jacques-Cartier's outdoor cafes for street performer entertainment, and don't miss the Bonsecours Market building - it's stunning from the outside! Pop into Olive + Gourmando if you need a coffee break.

30m, 1 min

Enjoy foods for1 hour 15 mins(12:45 - 14:00)

830m, 11 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 45 mins(14:15 - 16:00)

Tips: If you're feeling adventurous, consider the Montreal La Grande Roue ferris wheel for amazing city views ($25 per person), or just enjoy the free waterfront walk and watch the ships pass by.

650m, 9 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 45 mins(16:15 - 18:00)

Tips: The underground circuit through actual archaeological sites is unlike any museum you've visited. Start with the multimedia show for context, then explore at your own pace through the ancient ruins.

530m, 8 mins

Enjoy foods for1 hour 45 mins(20:00 - 21:45)

2.5km, 14 mins

Day 7

May 16

Montreal - Quebec City

Montreal Heights & Quebec City Bound

Your final morning in Montreal takes you to the city's natural crown jewel - Mount Royal Park - for spectacular panoramic views. After exploring the mountain and vibrant Jean-Talon Market, you'll embark on a scenic afternoon train journey to the enchanting Quebec City, where cobblestone streets and European charm await.

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Moderate

Pace Level

USD 872

Estimated Cost

Return to LHotel Montreal - Morning Checkout

5.15km, 45 mins

Enjoy fun for2 hours 30 mins(10:00 - 12:30)

Tips: Take the scenic path up through the forest trails (30-40 min climb) rather than the bus - you're young and active! The Kondiaronk Belvedere viewpoint is the main photo spot. Visit on a clear morning for best visibility.

3.2km, 30 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 30 mins(13:00 - 14:30)

Tips: Try Montreal bagels (they're different from NY bagels!), grab fresh pastries, and don't miss the Quebec cheese vendors. Perfect spot for a casual lunch - try a crepe or poutine from the market stalls!

5.8km, 30 mins

Enjoy fun for30 mins(15:00 - 15:30)

Tips: Arrive 30 minutes before departure. The train has WiFi, power outlets, and a cafe car. Sit on the right side for best St. Lawrence River views during the journey!

Suggested check-in19:00(1 hour 30 mins)

530m, 8 mins

Enjoy foods for1 hour 45 mins(20:45 - 22:30)

530m, 8 mins

Day 8

May 17

Quebec City

Quebec City - Fortified European Charm

Step back in time in North America's only walled city! Today you'll explore the magnificent Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, wandering through cobblestone streets, visiting the iconic Château Frontenac, exploring the historic fortifications, and immersing yourself in authentic French-Canadian culture and cuisine.

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Active

Pace Level

USD 568

Estimated Cost

Suggested check-in08:00(1 hour 30 mins)

300m, 5 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 30 mins(09:30 - 11:00)

Tips: Don't rush! The charm of Old Quebec is in the details - look up at the windows, peek into artisan shops, and enjoy street performers. Rue du Trésor is perfect for picking up local artwork.

890m, 14 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 30 mins(11:00 - 12:30)

Tips: Free guided tours are available - check the schedule at the visitor center. The motto 'Je me souviens' (I remember) above the entrance is Quebec's official motto. The fountains in front make for great photos!

1.22km, 17 mins

Enjoy foods for1 hour 30 mins(12:45 - 14:15)

210m, 4 mins

Enjoy fun for15 mins(14:30 - 14:45)

Tips: The funicular has been operating since 1879! If you're feeling energetic, you can take the stairs down and ride the funicular back up. The ride only takes about 1 minute but saves your legs for more exploring.

110m, 2 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour(14:45 - 15:45)

Tips: The large trompe-l'oeil mural on the wall depicts 400 years of Quebec history - see how many historical figures you can identify! Free outdoor concerts often happen here in summer evenings.

200m, 3 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 45 mins(15:45 - 17:30)

Tips: Rue du Petit-Champlain is one of the most photographed streets in Canada, especially the section with the Breakneck Stairs in view. Budget some money for shopping - the artisan goods here are much more unique than typical tourist souvenirs!

1.3km, 15 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 30 mins(17:45 - 19:15)

Tips: The last guided tours start around 5 PM, so time your arrival carefully. If you're lucky, you might see the Changing of the Guard ceremony (summer season). The views from the ramparts at sunset are absolutely stunning!

1.68km, 23 mins

Enjoy foods for1 hour 45 mins(19:45 - 21:30)

600m, 8 mins

Suggested check-in22:00(1 hour 59 mins)

Day 9

May 18

Quebec City

Quebec City Final Day - Plains & Falls Adventure

Make the most of your final full day in enchanting Quebec City! Start with a hearty breakfast, explore the historic Plains of Abraham where Canadian history was made, marvel at the impressive Parliament Building and its beautiful gardens, venture to the spectacular Montmorency Falls (higher than Niagara!), and return to Old Quebec for a memorable farewell dinner. This day perfectly blends history, nature, and culinary excellence.

💦

Active

Pace Level

USD 508

Estimated Cost

Suggested check-in08:00(1 hour)

300m, 8 mins

Enjoy foods for1 hour 15 mins(09:15 - 10:30)

740m, 14 mins

Enjoy fun for2 hours(11:00 - 13:00)

Tips: Saturday tours run from 9:30-16:30. Arrive around 11 AM for optimal timing. The fountain area in front makes for stunning photos, and don't miss the bronze statues commemorating important Quebec historical figures!

890m, 12 mins

Enjoy fun for1 hour 45 mins(13:15 - 15:00)

Tips: May weather is perfect for outdoor exploration! Grab a coffee or snack from a nearby café and enjoy a leisurely picnic moment on the Plains. The Martello Tower offers great panoramic views if you have extra time.

12.5km, 25 mins

Enjoy fun for2 hours(15:45 - 17:45)

Tips: The cable car ticket ($20 CAD) is worth every penny for the views and experience! Wear waterproof clothing if you plan to get close to the falls. The sunset timing (around 8 PM in May) creates magical lighting for photos!

13.8km, 28 mins

Enjoy foods for2 hours 30 mins(19:00 - 21:30)

400m, 7 mins

Suggested check-in22:00(12 hours)

Day 10

May 19

Quebec City

Departure Day - Au Revoir, Canada!

Your final morning in enchanting Quebec City. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast, take one last stroll through the charming streets of Old Quebec, pick up final souvenirs, and savor the last moments of French-Canadian culture before heading to the airport for your evening flight home.

😎

Relaxed

Pace Level

USD 1,075

Estimated Cost

Suggested check-in07:00(4 hours)

800m, 10 mins

Enjoy foods for1 hour 15 mins(08:30 - 09:45)

1.2km, 15 mins

Enjoy fun for2 hours 30 mins(10:00 - 12:30)

Tips: Don't forget Canadian souvenirs like maple syrup, ice wine, or local artisan chocolates. Keep your receipts for potential tax refunds at the airport!

16.2km, 30 mins

Land at Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport - Departure