Toronto packs an enormous amount into a compact area: a 553-metre tower, world-class museums, walkable multicultural neighbourhoods and islands reachable by ferry from the city centre. Here are the must-do activities, laid out to help you plan your stay.
Climb to the Top of the CN Tower
At 553 metres, the CN Tower dominates Toronto’s skyline and offers a 360-degree view over the city and Lake Ontario. The observation deck features a glass floor that lets you look straight down to the streets below. For thrill-seekers, the EdgeWalk is an outdoor stroll along the tower’s outer edge, without a handrail, billed as the highest of its kind in the world. Book tickets online in advance, especially in July and August.
The 360 Restaurant, at the top of the tower, lets you combine a meal with a sweeping panorama over the city and Lake Ontario.
Get my travel insurance quoteDive Underwater at Ripley’s Aquarium
Located at the base of the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium is home to more than 16,000 marine animals. Its 97-metre underwater tunnel, travelled by moving walkway, is the longest in North America: sharks, rays and turtles glide overhead. Touch pools and interactive exhibits make it a hit for all ages.
Visit the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
The ROM is Canada’s largest museum, with more than 6 million objects spanning dinosaurs, ancient civilisations and contemporary art. The Michael Lee-Chin Crystal wing, whose faceted facade has become a downtown landmark, is worth the trip for its architecture alone, as well as the collections housed within.
Wander the Distillery District
The former Gooderham and Worts distillery is now a pedestrian village of red brick and cast iron. Art galleries, independent boutiques and restaurants sit side by side in fully restored Victorian warehouses. Entry to the district is free: you only pay for what you eat or drink.
In December, the Distillery District Christmas Market transforms the cobblestone streets into a festive scene of lights and wooden chalets, widely regarded as one of the finest in North America.
Discover Casa Loma, North America’s Only Full-Scale Castle
Built between 1911 and 1914 by financier Sir Henry Pellatt, Casa Loma is the only full-scale castle on the North American continent. Its 98 rooms, secret passages, stables and five-acre gardens look out over Toronto from the St. Clair hillside. The visit is self-guided, with multimedia audio guides available on site. The venue welcomes more than 650,000 visitors a year.
Get Lost in Kensington Market
For more than 140 years, successive waves of immigrants have shaped Kensington Market. Today it offers street food from around the world, vintage clothing shops and street art that spills into the laneways. On summer Sundays, the streets close to traffic and live music takes over the open air.
Take the Ferry to the Toronto Islands
The Toronto Islands are just a short ferry ride from the Queens Quay terminal. From Centre Island, the view of Toronto’s skyline is one of the city’s finest for photography. The island is also home to Centreville Amusement Park, with more than 30 rides, a petting zoo and a lagoon for paddleboat rides, making it ideal for families.
Recharge in High Park
High Park is Toronto’s largest park and admission is free. In April and May, its 2,000-plus cherry trees draw thousands of visitors. In summer, open-air theatre performances take place within the park. Wooded trails, ponds and landscaped gardens offer a peaceful contrast to the buzz of downtown.
Browse St. Lawrence Market
St. Lawrence Market is a historic covered market where cheese, meat, seafood, pastries and local specialities fill the stalls. The dish to try on the spot: the peameal bacon sandwich, a Toronto original made from a back bacon loin rolled in yellow cornmeal.
Escape for a Day to Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is 130 km from Toronto, roughly one hour and thirty minutes by car along the Queen Elizabeth Way. On the Canadian side, walkways bring you within metres of the falls. Cruise boats head right to the base for a full-spray experience. Niagara-on-the-Lake, a little further north, makes for a quieter stop with its vineyards and village shops.
Planning Your Visit: A Few Practical Pointers
If you plan to visit several major paid attractions, the CityPASS bundles five sites and saves up to 38% compared with buying separate tickets (CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium and three others of your choice from the ROM, Casa Loma, Toronto Zoo or City Cruises).
Toronto is also one of the host cities for the FIFA World Cup 2026: free Fan Fests are set up at Fort York National Historic Site and The Bentway, with giant screens and live entertainment.
For planning beyond Toronto, the guide Things to Do in Canada covers the country’s highlights. If you are combining Toronto with other major North American cities, the pages Things to Do in Montreal and Things to Do in Chicago round out the itinerary nicely.
FAQ
What should I do in Toronto for 3 days?
Start downtown on day one: CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium and the Distillery District. Dedicate day two to the ROM, Kensington Market and St. Lawrence Market. On day three, head to the Toronto Islands in the morning and High Park in the afternoon, or make the drive to Niagara Falls if you have access to a car.
What can I do in Toronto for free?
Several of the city’s best experiences cost nothing: strolling through the Distillery District, exploring Kensington Market, visiting High Park and walking along the waterfront. The FIFA 2026 Fan Fests at Fort York and The Bentway are also free to enter.
What is the best time to visit Toronto?
June to August brings the most pleasant weather for making the most of parks, terraces and the islands. Spring (April to May) is ideal for the cherry blossom season at High Park. December draws visitors for the Distillery District Christmas Market.
How do I get from Toronto to Niagara Falls?
The falls are 130 km from the city centre, roughly one hour and thirty minutes by car along the QEW. Organised day trips departing from Toronto are available if you prefer not to hire a car.
Is the Toronto CityPASS worth it?
The CityPASS bundles five major attractions and saves up to 38% compared with buying tickets separately. It is particularly good value if you plan to visit the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium and at least two other included sites.
