best walking tours toronto

Free walking tour near Toronto

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Toronto Walking Tours

This post provides several different free walking tours you can take in Toronto, covering a wide variety of subjects and locations in the city.

Despite the fact that the city of Toronto has only been around for a few hundred years, there’s still a pretty extensive and intriguing history behind this city.

There are a plethora of tours you can take that cover multiple interesting topics.

The most common tours focus on the history of either the oldest part of the city or the downtown area, including a focus on architectural style and some of the more notable events which took place in each neighbourhood.

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Here Are Additional Tours

• Old Town History
• Ghost Tours

There are also a few street art tours you might want to consider which provide a look at some of the best graffiti in Toronto while discussing some of the controversy surrounding this type of artwork.

Finally, you might also want to consider a ghost tour to learn about the darker side of history in Toronto!

Each of these services is either a self-guided tour or a pay-what-you-wish guided walking tour, which means they are essentially tip-based and you can pay your tour guide however much you feel the tour was worth.

Most guests feel comfortable tipping $10-$15, but it’s entirely up to you to decide how much you would like to offer for these free walking tours.

Most of these walking tours don’t have limits on the size of the groups and can sometimes get quite large.

If you’d rather avoid large groups, there are several paid small-group tours you can choose from instead.

Is Toronto walkable?

Yes, Toronto is walkable. The city's core is dense with attractions, public transit is readily available, and many neighborhoods are pedestrian-friendly.

The best time for a Toronto walking tour is from late spring to early fall, particularly between May and September, when the weather is mild and the city is bustling with activities.

TORONTO OLD TOWN HISTORY TOURS

Learn about the history of Toronto by taking a free walking tour through the old town neighbourhood to see some of the most notable landmarks in the area.

Toronto might be a relatively young city, but there are still a lot of interesting and historic structures and locations to see, and these tours also cover a lot of important events in the city.

While walking through Old Town Toronto, you can expect to see some of these sites:

• Metropolitan United Church
• York County Courthouse
• St. Lawrence Market
• Courthouse Square
• St. James Cathedral
• Sculpture Garden

Explore the oldest part of the city and learn about the locations listed above on one of the following free walking tours.

Toonie Tours

This 3-hour Toronto Free Walking Tour will connect you to the city through the eyes of a local guide.

See the most exciting and historic areas of Toronto. Learn about the city, the province, and, above all, Canada. You will hear tales of local legends and discover many notable establishments along the way.

The tour is filled with recommendations & tips to ensure you get the most out of your trip to Toronto!

Your Free Walking Tour of Toronto starts in the heart of Old Toronto – Berczy Park, near the Dog Fountain.

This service is available daily at 10 am, 2 pm, and 5 pm.

Book this tour or learn more .

Over the course of 1 ½ hours, this old town Toronto tour will provide a breakdown of the most notable events in the history of the city, including massive fires, duels to the death, and more.

This pay-what-you-wish tour is available Tuesday - Sunday at 10 am, the route is approximately 2 km long, and it is offered rain or shine.

Book the tour or find out more .

Old Town Toronto Self-Guided Tours

If you’d rather explore the city at your own pace and you’re not interested in joining a tour group, there are a few self-guided tours of old town Toronto that are offered by the city of Toronto.

You can either download these tours onto your smartphone or print them out to use at your discretion, and each one includes a map you can use to find your way around the city with ease.

• Old Town Toronto West
• Old Town Toronto East
• St. Lawrence Neighbourhood
• A Hundred Years of Architecture

Paid Old Town Toronto Tours

Although there aren’t a lot of paid tours that cover the history of old town Toronto, there are some outings that visit the St. Lawrence neighbourhood.

Thanks to the market in the area, there are several food tours and beer tours you might want to consider, as well as a few walking tours you might enjoy.

Check this list of Old Town Toronto tours to find a service that fits your itinerary. 

TORONTO DOWNTOWN TOURS 

If you want to discover the downtown area, there are a few different free walking tours in Toronto you may want to consider.

Downtown tours focus on the most notable skyscrapers, architecture, and public spaces in the city, providing details about the history of these structures.

Here are a few of the more significant sites you can expect to see on these tours:

• Union Station
• The Toronto Sign
• Old & New City Hall
• The Financial District
• Underground PATH Walkway

To see or learn more about any of these locations, consider one of the pay-what-you-wish walking tours listed below.

Downtown Toronto Walking Tour Yonge St

Explore the heartbeat of Toronto on this immersive tour.

Discover the iconic Yonge Street, a focal point of Canada's history, leading up to the bustling Yonge-Dundas Square.

Get to experience Toronto's attractions, including sightseeing at the Financial District, and a possible stop at Ripley’s Aquarium.

Along the way, take in the charm of Old Toronto and the elegance of the Ontario Legislative Building.

Jose, your guide, provides a blend of education and entertainment, making this tour an award-winning winery of knowledge.

With each step on this scenic drive, you'll understand why September is the most popular month to visit.

Book Your Tour or Learn More .

Downtown Toronto Walking Tour St. Lawrence

Embark on a fascinating walk through downtown Toronto, from the historic St. Lawrence district to Toronto Harbour and the Toronto Islands.

Admire the majestic American Falls and Horseshoe Falls, and experience the thrill of a Hornblower Niagara Cruise.

Unearth the hidden gems of the city as you journey through a myriad of attractions, including the impressive Rogers Centre and Harbourfront.

The tour also offers a chance to experience the allure of the Floral Clock, making it one of the city's best tours.

A stroll through the vibrant streets of St. Lawrence encapsulates the spirit of Toronto in every stride.

This company offers a downtown tour and they have received a lot of positive reviews for their service.

As a matter of fact, they have a 5 out of 5-star rating on TripAdvisor!

You can take this 1 ½ hour free walking tour daily at 10 am and 2 pm. You can expect to walk at least 2 km throughout the city and make at least 6-8 stops.

Downtown Toronto Self-Guided Tours

In addition to the pay-what-you-wish tour listed above, there are also some interesting self-guided tours provided by the city of Toronto themselves.

Each of these services is easily accessible via their website , and they all include a route map you can use to find your way around the city with ease.

• Downtown Toronto Discovery Walk
• The Green Podium Roof Walk
• Downtown Complete Streets Walk

Paid Downtown Toronto Tours

If you’re more interested in seeing this part of the city from another perspective, there are some great paid tours of downtown Toronto you might want to consider.

While there are some other walking tours available, you may also enjoy a hop-on, hop-off bus tour, bike tour, helicopter tour, or even airplane tour.

Ticket prices range from $20-$120 on average.

Here is a list of well-reviewed paid downtown Toronto tours you can take.

TORONTO STREET ART TOURS

Discover another side of the city when you learn about the best street art and graffiti in Toronto on a free pay-what-you-wish walking tour.

While on a street art tour, you’ll see a variety of interesting artwork and visit locations such as “Graffiti Alley.”

Your guide will discuss the controversy around this form of artwork in Toronto.

There are also some tours that cover some of the more traditionally artistic sites in the city, including stops in Toronto’s “Village of Murals.”

Aside from their historic tours of the city, this company also offers a service that covers the subculture of graffiti art in Toronto over the course of 1 ½ hours.

Most reviews for this tour are very positive, and it has received an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars .

You can take the street art/graffiti tour daily at 4 pm, and it’s approximately 2 km in length.

Book the tour or learn more .

TIP: If you're interested in art, consider their paid tour of Kensington Market & Chinatown . This outing includes coverage of street art, comic book stores, coffee houses, and vintage shops.

Self-Guided Toronto Art Tours

If you’re more interested in traditional artwork, there are also some nice self-guided walking tours provided by the city of Toronto.

One option is their Art Walk , which visits the Village of Islington to explore more than 15,000 feet of murals spread across 5 blocks of the neighbourhood. This tour includes a route map to help you find each stop.

Alternatively, you may also enjoy the NHS Urban Walk which covers Cultural Toronto.

This self-guided tour provides a look at the most notable locations for music, theatre, film, and visual arts.

Visitors who are interested in seeing more greenery might enjoy discovering the beautiful parks in this city on a self-guided tour of Uptown Toronto .

Once again, a route map will help you locate each site.

Paid Toronto Street Art Tours

Although there aren’t a lot of other tours that cover this subject, there are a few Toronto street art tours you can pay to take which might be of interest.

Some of these outings include food and drink samples as well, essentially making them food tours.

• Kensington Market and Chinatown Tour
• Afternoon Arts Walking Tour + Food & Drink
• Arts, Food & Culture Tour

TORONTO GHOST TOURS

If you want to discover the spookier side of Toronto, there are also some free ghost tours you can take which provide information about the darker stories from throughout this city’s history.

Discover some of the most infamous and potentially haunted sites in the city, and learn about some of the myths that continue to persist to this day.

Here are a few of the locations you can expect to see on these tours:

• Old City Hall
• Stewart Building
• Queen’s Park
• Trinity College
• Soldier’s Tower

Learn more about the darker side of these sites on one of the free walking tours listed below.

In addition to covering the more disturbing aspects of Toronto’s history, this tour also attempts to do a bit of myth-busting and questions whether or not the stories of the past were accurate.

Much like their other free tours, this company has also received an overall rating of 5 out of 5 stars for their pay-what-you-wish ghost tour as well. 

This outing is available every Friday and Saturday at 8 pm, and it is approximately 2 km in length.

NOTE: This outing isn't available as of April 2022, but it appears it will return in the fall.

Find out more or book this tour .

Self-Guided Toronto Ghost Tour

If you’d rather discover the spookiest locations in this city at your own pace, the city of Toronto actually offers a free self-guided tour with a route map you can use to find each stop.

This outing can be enjoyed either from South to North or from North to South, and it is estimated to take around 2 hours total to see every site included.

Download this self-guided Toronto ghost tour .

Paid Toronto Ghost Tours

While there aren’t any other free ghost tours available in Toronto, there are a lot of really affordable paid tours you can take that cover specific locations in the city such as the Distillery District, the University of Toronto, and more.

• Original Haunted Walk of Toronto
• Ghosts and Spirits of the Distillery District
• University of Toronto Ghost Tour

TORONTO PUB CRAWLS

In addition to all the other outings available in Toronto, there are also pub crawls which will cover some of the best bars in the city. You'll also learn all about the most popular drinks in the area!

Toronto Pub Crawl

Join Toronto Pub Crawl and discover the city's vibrant nightlife.

Experience some of Canada's best tours, including a visit to the iconic CN Tower and other great attractions like Duke's Refreshers and Score on King.

Enjoy a thrilling cruise through the pulsating streets, enriched with the taste of local brews. Uncover hidden gems along Queen West, while making sure your comfort is paramount.

Remember, this crawl operates on a "Free payment" model, so pay what you feel is fair.

With its scenic drive through Toronto's best-kept secrets, the tour showcases the thrilling side of the city after sundown.

Local Craft Beer, History and Culture Tour

Our Local Craft Beer, History and Culture Tour takes you on a journey to taste the best of Toronto's craft beer scene.

From well-established pubs to the Distillery District, this tour offers a taste of Canadian heritage.

Alongside your beer tasting, you'll explore Toronto's history, taking in the sights of the city's attractions, such as Casa Loma and the Skylon Tower.

The thrill of city tours combined with a shopping tour through the vibrant districts enhances your journey.

At the end of this tour, you'll have savored great food, great brews, and the true spirit of Toronto.

And much, much more

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Experience Toronto like a local

Small group walking tours

Premium guides.

Our downtown Toronto, guided walking tours have a 10-guest maximum, and are led by knowledgeable, professional guides, who want you to see and experience this great city the way the locals do. Our small group tours have a little bit of everything, from history, architecture, fun facts, and things to do in this vibrant multicultural capital of the world.

Get a Buzz Tour Toronto Walking Tour Experience

• Small groups of maximum 10 per tour, led by premium guides that are long-term Toronto residents, and trained for each curated tour. This is how we deliver a walking tour experience like being a local and get more of your questions answered.
• An enjoyable and smooth tour, with 15,000 guests since 2017, and guests from 60 countries in 2023 -we know how to treat you well.

Your enjoyable Toronto walking tour experience.

Buzz Tours consistently receives excellent ratings from our guests for all of our tours. That’s something we have worked hard for and it's something we take great pride in. We do our best to ensure that every one of our guests has a great experience. We will greet you at the beginning of the tour. We will engage you in a two-way conversation along the tour, and we will answer questions, you may have not just about the sites, but the history, culture, and life in the city. Our goal is to raise the bar on your expectations for your next walking tour, wherever that may be.

Explore our diverse neighbourhoods.

Group & private tours.

• Group Tours start at $35 CAD/person, including taxes/fees
• Private Tours start at $295 CAD/per 8 person group, including taxes/fees $10 fee for each additional guest
• Tours offered 7 days a week
• As we are a “small group tours" company we keep our private tours to a manageable group size.

Toronto is a very modern, fast paced city with spectacular buildings, amazing parkland, great theatre, top notch sports teams and very friendly residents. Toronto prides itself on its cultural diversity. With this diversity, comes amazing restaurants, unique neighbourhoods, and a unique vibe that few other cities on this planet can match. We look forward to sharing our city’s story with you and showing you some of its great sites.

Current Tour Choices

Guided group or private walking tours..

Show Me The City

(our signature tour).

This 3-hour tour will take you through the city’s downtown core, stopping at many of the great sites and buildings. On this tour you will learn a bit about Toronto culture, history, architecture, transportation, city building, entertainment.

$48 CAD/person

Buzz Tours offers both PRIVATE and GUIDED GROUP walking tours. Guided Group Walking Tours are tours through some of Toronto's most memorable and vibrant neighbourhoods. These Walking Tours are operational 12 months a year and have a duration of between 2 to 3 hours, and typically have a maximum of 8 guests. With our small group size we ensure that you will not be just part of the walk, but an active participant in a walk and talk. Private/Corporate Walking Tours allow you the guest to determine the route, the time and the people you want to join you on the tour. Groups can choose to follow the route of one of our tours, or create a customize route of their own through the downtown core.

PATH: Toronto's Underground City

Toronto has an underground city (and in some cases above ground) called PATH. PATH connects more than 70 buildings in the city. It is 24km (16 miles) in length, has 900 shops and services and has over 500 food outlets. This is a GREAT tour for cold, or rainy days!

$35 CAD/person

Market 2 Market

Toronto has 2 famous markets. Kensington Market (an entire neighbourhood) with great food and interesting shops, and the St. Lawrence Market, an indoor food market ranked one of the top markets in the world. The markets are on opposites sides of the city, which allows are tour to take you through many of the great areas of the city and see some of this city’s amazing architecture.

2 Villages & The Main Street

The northern part of downtown Toronto is sometimes overlooked by visitors to the city. This area has great character, awesome architecture, and loads of history and culture. Our 2.5 hour tour will take you through 2 villages: Yorkville, originally a village outside the city and now a high end fashionable area, and the Church/Wellesley village, home to Toronto’s huge LGBTQ2S+ community.  To get from one village do the other, we will walk down Yonge Street, Toronto’s main street.

We're looking for part-time seasonal guides

Are you, or someone you know, interested in being a tour guide for our group tours?

We are looking of guides who are personable, engaging, safety-conscious and someone who really knows this city.

If you, or someone you know, are interested in showing people from all corners of the world our great city, send us your resume and a note as to why you are interested in the position to:

‍ [email protected]

‍ We looking forward to hearing from you.

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

23 of the Best Toronto Tours

April 18, 2023 By Matthew G. Bailey 3 Comments

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If you’re looking for the best Toronto tours, you’ve come to the right place!

As the largest city in Canada and one of the most multicultural cities on Earth, there are so many things to do in Toronto. From soaring over the city in a helicopter to joining a food walking tour in one of the most famous neighbourhoods, there’s truly something for everyone in Toronto.

So whether you’re visiting the city for the first time or just looking for something new to do, here’s our list of the 23 best Toronto tours.

Toronto Tours Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, which means when you make a purchase, we get a small commission. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use and they help keep these travel guides free. It’s a win-win! For more information, visit our  privacy policy.

Don’t have time to read the entire Toronto Tours article? These are our four favourite tours overall:

• Best of Toronto Small Group Tour : This 4-hour tour combines the best of Toronto, including a knowledgeable guide to walk you around the city, including the CN Tower and a lovely harbour cruise.
• Kensington Market Food Tour : Thanks to Toronto’s multicultural scene, food is a great way to experience the city and this 2.5-hour tour takes you to the city’s most diverse neighbourhood.
• Helicopter Tour of Toronto : I mean, it’s a helicopter! Imagine how cool it is to see Canada’s largest city from the sky.
• Day Trip to Niagara Falls : Since Canada’s most famous and iconic natural attraction is so close to Toronto, we highly recommend taking a tour from Toronto to Niagara Falls.

Table of Contents

Best of Toronto Small Group Tour with CN Tower and Harbour Cruise

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (343+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Enjoy some of Toronto’s top sights during this comprehensive tour with a small group. Travel with no more than 9 guests as you explore landmarks like the world-famous CN Tower before enjoying a scenic harbour cruise with great views of the Toronto skyline. Visits to other Toronto attractions include St. Lawrence Market, Queen’s Park and much more. You’ll also get round-trip hotel transport and skip-the-line entrance to make your Toronto tour as smooth as possible.

We had two tours this trip. This one was the best! Mike took his time sharing the history of the city and giving us enough time to explore. My children said it was the best tour they’ve had through Viator. Thank you! -Kona ( see more reviews )

Explore the many highlights of Toronto on this comprehensive sightseeing tour with a small group , including beautiful city views from the observation deck of the CN Tower, stunning skyline views from a scenic harbour cruise, and much more.

This four-hour Small-Group Toronto Highlights Tour includes:

• Guided driving tour passing Dundas Square, Queen’s Park and Nathan Phillips Square and more
• Admission to Toronto Harbour Cruise (seasonal, May-Oct only)
• Tour stop with free time at St. Lawrence Market (closed Sun & Mon)
• Visit the Distillery District when St. Lawrence Market is closed
• Small-group tour (limited to 9 guests)
• Skip the ticket line access to some attractions
• Pick up and drop off from anywhere downtown
• Toronto Admission to the CN Tower
• Visit Casa Loma (Nov-Apr. only)

Click Here to See Reviews, Pricing, and Availability.

Kensington Market -Toronto’s Neighbourhood International Food Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (375+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

When it comes to the best food tours in Toronto , it’s hard to beat those that take you into Kensington Market, home to one of the most diverse food scenes in Toronto. Visitors are often overwhelmed by choice if exploring alone. Instead, join a guide and head straight to the area’s best eateries , where you skip notoriously long lines to sample at least 6 international cuisines—from Tibetan momos to Jamaican patties.

The tour was fantastic. Kensington Market is a vibrant and diverse area. Lots of interesting history there. The food samples were large and tasty at each stop. Our tour guide William was wonderful. He was witty, funny and very informative!!! I definitely recommend this tour. – Cindy ( See More Reviews )

If you’re looking to try some of the best food in the city while exploring Toronto’s most eclectic and bohemian neighbourhood, this tour is for you. These Toronto tours are available during the weekend and include enough food for lunch. Vegetarian options are available and all ages and abilities are welcome.

This 2.5-Hour Kensington Market Food Tour includes:

• Food tasting
• Local guide
• Guaranteed to skip the long lines

Toronto Food Tour: Taste the World in Kensington Market

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (183+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2.5 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

As you can see, Kensington is a great place for Toronto food tours, which is why we’re listing another option. In fact, we joined this tour back in 2017 when we were doing our 150-day Canada road trip . Those fries we had at Moo Frites were some of the best fries we’ve ever had. This is your chance to savour multicultural cuisine on this walking food tour of downtown Toronto’s Kensington Market . Learn about Toronto’s fascinating food history and its influences from around the world while roaming the streets of this eclectic district. Sample frybread from Canada’s Indigenous people, Syrian hummus, and a special sweet concoction that melds some of Canada’s favourite flavours. This small-group tour is limited to 10 people to ensure an intimate atmosphere and all tasting fees are included.

I loved this tour! Damien was our guide and he was knowledgeable and super nice. We tried delicious food and learned a lot. Would for sure recommend this tour to anyone new to the city – it’s a great way to try new foods that you probably wouldn’t on your own. Thank you, Damien! -Nancy ( see more reviews )

This Guided food tour of Downtown Toronto’s Kensington Market allows you to learn about one of the most multicultural cities in North America while indulging in some tasty foods.

This 2.5-hour Toronto food tour includes:

• All tastings

Downtown Toronto Bike Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (244+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3.5 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Get to know the best of Toronto on this popular 3.5-hour guided bike tour of the city ! Get some exercise while you learn about the history, culture and architecture of the largest city in Canada, along with some of its fascinating stories and facts. Ride through the bustling downtown district as well as a few scenic areas off the beaten path. This tour includes the sights and sounds of the CN Tower, Chinatown, Kensington Market, the Hockey Hall of Fame, Toronto City Hall and much more.

Jeffrey and Theodora our guides were so knowledgeable about the Toronto area. They were patient with all and ensured everyone’s comfort and safety. The ride was taken at a pace that was suitable for all, young and older. Thoroughly enjoyed this tour, would recommend and have personally not ridden a bike for many years. -Teresa ( see more reviews )

This bike tour of Toronto features an easy route that is suitable for all riders and features a small-group tour limited to 12 people to ensure a more personalized experience.

This 3.5-hour Bike Tour of Toronto includes:

• Use of bike and helmet
• Granola bars and water

Toronto Islands Morning Bike Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (88+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3.5 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you happen to peer out over Lake Ontario, especially from a vantage point such as the CN Tower, you’ll see the beautiful Toronto Islands, a great place to get into nature with views of the Toronto Skyline. Thankfully, when it comes to Toronto tours, there’s this guided 3.5-hour morning bike tour that explores the Toronto Islands, the largest car-free community in North America. Get to know this unique neighbourhood through sights and stories while enjoying breathtaking views of Toronto’s skyline from across the Inner Harbour.

We had a lot of fun and both said it was a highlight of our trip. It was great to see the islands and learn about the history. The views back to the city are amazing. Ryan was very knowledgeable and patient. He was a fantastic guide and took some great photos for us. Highly recommend this tour. -Phil ( see more reviews )

While the hustle and bustle of Toronto can be fun, this is your chance to enjoy a morning bike ride with a panoramic view of the city while visiting landmark locations like the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse and the Royal Canadian Yacht Club. Use of a bike and helmet, plus snacks are included.

This 3.5-hour Biking Tour of the Toronto Islands includes:

• Bottled water
• Use of bicycle
• Use of helmet

7-Minute Helicopter Tour Over Toronto

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (104+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  7 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you think exploring Toronto on land is cool, imagine how great it is to see the largest city in Canada from a helicopter!

See the city of Toronto and the surrounding region on this brief but stunning 7-minute helicopter flight (or this 14-minute helicopter flight ) getting a birds-eye view of downtown Toronto, the iconic CN Tower, the Canadian National Exhibition grounds, and the beautiful Lake Ontario waterfront. This incredible helicopter flight covers almost 15 kilometres (approx nine miles) and includes one keepsake digital photo (delivered online) plus a printed souvenir picture. A variety of departure times are available throughout the day to fit into almost any schedule, so don’t miss crossing this truly unique Toronto tour off of your bucket list.

The whole experience was amazing. The staff were so friendly and accommodating making every dollar worth spending. If you’re looking for something fun to do around Toronto this is definitely worth checking out -Maryam ( see more reviews )

If you’re looking for breathtaking views when it comes to Toronto tours, this is the tour for you. There’s also a 14-minute helicopter tour if you want more time.

This 7-minute helicopter tour of Toronto includes:

• 7-minute helicopter flight
• Local taxes
• Keepsake digital photo
• Printed souvenir picture

Click Here for Reviews, Pricing, and Availability.

Exhilarating 120km Aerial Tour of Toronto with iflyTOTO

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (109+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  24+ Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you think Toronto looks great from the ground, imagine what it looks like from the sky! Take in sweeping aerial views of Toronto from the comfort of an 8-person executive plane tour . Get some incredible photos as soar by top landmarks such as the CN Tower, Rogers Center, Toronto Islands, and Lake Ontario. For your comfort and convenience, the experience includes free parking and access to the airport’s VIP lounge prior to departure.

One word… spectacular! From start to finish, this whole journey was unbelievable. I am petrified of heights but this was one of the best experiences of my life. Our guide flew us around the CN Tower and we saw all of the sights from above. Toronto is sensational and you get to see all of this from the plane. I would 100% recommend booking this!!! -Chelsea ( see more reviews )

Of the many amazing Toronto tours, this is your chance to get a rare birds-eye view of Canada’s largest city while enjoying a cool 8-seater executive plane. Plus, you get free parking and access to a VIP airport lounge access.

This 24-minute tour of Toronto includes:

• Free Parking
• Fixed-wing air tour of Toronto
• Pictures in your camera with our client host

Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (1,816+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  10 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Thanks to its close proximity to Niagara Falls , one of the most popular Toronto tours is to actually take a Niagara Falls day tour from Toronto to see one of the most iconic sights in Canada.

A Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto is an experience that is sure to leave you in awe. It’s the perfect way to get away from the city and see one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Take a scenic drive along the Niagara Parkway with your guide, admiring top regional attractions such as the floral clock, enjoying photo stops including the Niagara Whirlpool and the smallest chapel in the world, and spend about three hours exploring the Niagara Falls site and marvel at the incredible waterfalls.

You can also take a thrilling boat ride on the Hornblower Niagara Cruise, which will take you right up to the base of the Falls for a truly unforgettable experience. And if that’s not enough, you can even enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the many restaurants overlooking the Falls. So, whether you’re a nature lover or just looking for an exciting day trip, a Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto is an adventure you won’t want to miss!

Great experience. Loved the tour guide and commentary. Got to sit back and enjoy the ride. Niagara Falls was beautiful! – Keisha, Viator.com

This ten-hour Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto includes:

• Comfortable and modern buses/coaches with air conditioning
• Driver/guide Live commentary on board
• Small group ensures personal service
• Hassle-free round-trip transport from Toronto

Niagara Falls Private Half-Day Tour with Boat and Helicopter

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (28+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  6-10 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Since we just mentioned a popular group tour from Toronto to Niagara Falls, we thought we’d fill you in on a popular private tour to Niagara Falls as well.

Plan your own route around one of Canada’s top attractions on this private 8-hour Niagara Falls tour from Toronto . Hop into your chauffeur-driven vehicle in Toronto and travel in style through the Niagara region. With your private driver on hand, hit the top sites that you want to see without the hassle of having other people around you. Enjoy the opportunity to participate in the attractions you’d most like to experience, such as a helicopter tour, a Hornblower boat cruise, the Skylon Tower or even the Whirlpool Rapids.

You’ll also get to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch with uninterrupted views over Horseshoe Falls and visit Niagara-on-the-Lake for a sampling of wine or a visit to Fort George. Note: A minimum of 2 people is required per booking.

Our tour guide Shahz was amazing! It felt like we were traveling with a friend. We were driven from Toronto to Niagra Falls in style with music. We ate out over the falls. They sang happy birthday to my fiancé. Then we did the boat ride and even stopped at a haunted house. This tour is indescribable. Just book! -Cheryl ( see more reviews )

This 10-hour Private Niagara Falls tour from Toronto includes:

• Private tour with Licensed Tour Guide
• Niagara City cruise (April-Nov) (addon)
• Sheraton Buffet Lunch (addon)
• Toronto and Niagara Falls Hotels pick-up and drop-off
• HELICOPTER RIDE (addon)
• 2 Hours Freetime at Niagara Falls

Toronto Local Beer Tour: 2 Beers at 2 Unique & Historical Pubs

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (133+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  4 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

If you like beer and are looking for the best Toronto tours, this one is for you. Discover how Canadian beer aligns with the history of Toronto on this guided small-group walking tour . Roam through the streets of Old Town Toronto while learning the role that beer played in the city’s past. Enjoy a beer tasting at the popular Mill Street Brewery before visiting St. Lawrence Market to sample a variety of Canadian specialties. You’ll then get to explore the trendy Distillery District, one of Canada’s hottest tourist attractions.

Our tour guide Roidan was wonderful! He was super knowledgeable, personable and engaging! It ft like we were hanging out with a friend while learning not only about beer but also some of Toronto’s history. Highly recommend! -Guy ( see more reviews )

If you’re booking Toronto tours, don’t miss the chance to learn some interesting history about the city while visiting two classic Toronto pubs. The small-group size with a maximum of 12 people ensures a personalized experience and this tour is carbon neutral, operated by the world’s largest travel B Corp accredited company.

This four-hour Toronto tour featuring beer and history includes:

• Friendly local
• English-speaking guide
• Local beer at each of the two pubs

Private Canadian Food Discovery at the St Lawrence Market

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (4+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

While so many of the Toronto food tours focus on the Kensington neighbourhood, everyone is missing out on one of the top foodie destinations in Toronto – St. Lawrence Market!

Join a food-loving local guide and head to one of the city’s most beloved food markets to learn about some of Canada’s best culinary creations – from poutine to the iconic peameal bacon sandwich. In between bites, your guide will share insights into everything you’re tasting, giving you an inside look at how and what Canadians love to eat! As an added bonus, the small-group size with a maximum of 12 people ensures a personalized experience.

This was an amazing tour! Our guide had great knowledge of the area as well as the food. We were given so much food we couldn’t finish it all. He took us to the local places we never would have entered if we were on our own. Those places were our favorites. We finished in the market and it was great. We did a similar tour in Seattle and this was even better. -Brian ( see more reviews )

As one of the most historic food markets in Canada, this is such a great opportunity to learn about Canada while stuffing your face with super tasty food.

This three-hour food tour of Toronto’s St. Lawrence Market includes:

• Local English-speaking guide
• Locally roasted coffee (or tea)
• Famous Canadian soft drink
• Piece of a peameal bacon sandwich
• One butter tart
• Piece of Montreal-style bagel
• Maple candy

Walking Tour of Toronto’s Kensington Market and Chinatown

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (97+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Whenever we visit a new city, we find that the best way to experience it is by doing a walking tour. With that in mind, this is your chance to discover two of Toronto’s most colourful and multicultural neighbourhoods. Explore Kensington Market and Chinatown on this guided, three-hour, small-group walking tour . Of all the Toronto tours, this is one of the best for experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of Toronto’s legendary Chinatown before exploring the unique, bohemian atmosphere of Kensington Market, one of Toronto’s most popular and eclectic neighbourhoods.

We took this tour on a cold November day and our experience was just fantastic. Jason our guide and a true local is very knowledgeable about the Kensington market neighborhood history and current make up. In addition to inviting us to Chinese pastry and coffee, he pointed out the most interesting food spots and took us to great shopping. An all around great experience that was the highlight of our 3 days stay in Toronto. -Manon ( see more reviews )

Learn about the history of these very popular Toronto neighbourhoods while visiting the locally-owned eateries, unique shops and produce markets and wandering the hidden lanes and alleyways to check out some great graffiti and street art.

This three-hour small-group walking tour of Kensington Market and Chinatown includes:

• Stop for a coffee or tea in one of the local cafes
• Sample a snack at a local food vendor
• Experience the sights, sounds, and smells of Toronto’s legendary Chinatown
• Explore the unique, bohemian atmosphere of Kensington Market
• Walk the hidden lanes and alleys to discover amazing graffiti art

Toronto Tall Ship Boat Cruise

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (228+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  2 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Set sail off the coast of Toronto on this 2-hour Toronto tall-ship boat cruise aboard a beautiful vintage 3-masted 1930s schooner. Following a 30-minute tour, sail out into the seas off the Canadian coastline. Help the crew raise the sails or sit back and relax on the route from Toronto’s Harbour to massive Lake Ontario. Enjoy panoramic views over Toronto’s islands and skyline while listening to ancient sea shanties as your crew coil the ropes. They’ll even fire the ship’s cannon!

Great staff, very easy-going and entertaining! Engaging…allowing us to help pull up the sail! The amazing music! The small cannon! And of course the beautiful sunset and wind! (Also, very interesting to learn about the history). It was a perfect balance of entertainment and quiet time to enjoy the scenery/boat itself. -Michael ( see more reviews )

With Lake Ontario Glistening next to the big city, your first visit to Toronto should always include some sort of cruise. This cruise is quite unique as it takes part on a pirate-looking ship!

This two-hour Toronto harbour cruise includes:

• 2-hour Toronto tall-ship boat cruise
• Hop aboard a 3-masted 1930s schooner that takes you along the coastline
• Relax as you soak up the Lake Ontario scenery, or help the crew with the sails
• Get a kick out of the firing of the ship’s cannon
• Choose from an array of departure times to suit your schedule
• Purchase a commemorative photo of your outing, if you like

Click Here to See Reviews, Pricing, and Availability

1-Hour Toronto Harbour Tour with Live Narration

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (284+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Get a different perspective of Toronto on this lovely harbourfront boat cruise . Set out from historic Pier 6 and admire the glittering skyline that includes the CN Tower, Rogers Center, and First Canadian Place. Cruise by the beautiful Toronto Islands as your captain provides entertaining narration along the way.

I like how convenient it was to book and board the boat. The facts and historical details of lake ontario and its surrounding places made us appreciate Canada and the city of Toronto. You also get to see Toronto in another light and looking at the skyline from the lake’s vantage point is awesome! Captain Cat and Sarah were awesome guides and they were very entertaining and funny as well. Tour is worth the price. -Mark ( see more reviews )

Since Toronto is located on the shores of Lake Ontario, you really need to get out on the lake to get a sense of this massive city. This low-cost Toronto tour is a narrated boat tour of the dynamic Toronto Harbour with multiple departure times to suit your schedule.

This 1-hour Toronto Harbour Tour includes:

• Captain and crew
• Live narration

Show me the City! Toronto Walking Tour

When it comes to big cities, the best way to learn about and become better oriented with the city is to take a walking tour. On this three-hour Toronto walking tour , you’ll soak up the atmosphere of Canada’s largest city, from the CN Tower to the historic St. Lawrence Market.

Your guide eliminates the hassle of navigating and planning an itinerary on your own and points out landmarks often missed by visitors and locals alike. At the end of the tour, walk away with a new perspective and recommendations for the rest of your stay.

Dave was so friendly, knowledgeable and charming! I learned so much in 3 hours but the tour was so well paced that it didn’t feel like information overload, as well as having plenty of time to take in the scenery. Lots of fun as well as being educational. Highly recommend to anyone unfamiliar with Toronto. -Victoria ( see more reviews )

What we love about walking tours is that they help make the city come alive through history and storytelling. Once it’s over, you’ll see the city in a new way. We highly recommend doing a walking tour as early into the trip as you can.

This three-hour walking tour of Toronto includes:

• Knowledgable local guide

Toronto Distillery District Walking Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.9 out of 5 Stars (225+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Get to know the historic side of Toronto on this walking tour of Toronto’s Distillery District . Your knowledgeable guide will take you around Victorian Industrial architecture, sharing the history and entertaining anecdotes along the way. Learn about the business of the area and the company that became the world’s largest distillery. Choose from two departure times to suit your schedule.

Guide had lots of details on the history of the site and colorful stories. Really enjoyed learning so many things about things you would easily just walk past without a guide! -Teresa ( see more reviews )

This 1-hour Toronto Distillery District Walking Tour includes:

• Professional Guide

30-Minute Distillery District Segway Tour in Toronto

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (141+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  30 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Experience Toronto like never before on this educational and entertaining, 30-minute Segway tour . Have fun operating a Segway while learning about Toronto’s trendy Distillery District, one of Canada’s hottest tourist attractions. Discover the fascinating history behind the former Gooderham and Worts Distillery and roll past the many designer boutiques, unique pubs and cafés, artisan shops, art galleries and award-winning restaurants that line the brick roads of this pedestrian-only village. Guided Segway training, plus all the necessary equipment, including a helmet, is included. Dress in weather-appropriate clothes with flat, closed-toed shoes.

Guides were extremely pleasant, and patient with teaching us newbies how to ride lol. Lots of fun had by the whole family, great way to experience the District for the first time. Highly recommend! -Jessica ( see more reviews )

This 30-minute Segway Tour of the Toronto Distillery District includes:

• 30-minute Segway tour
• Training session
• All necessary equipment, including a helmet

Original Haunted Walk of Toronto Ghost Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (39+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this is your chance to experience a different side of Toronto! This one-hour small-group ghost tour of Toronto takes you to some of the creepiest places in the city to share the spooky stories behind familiar landmarks that might look pleasant to you at first. This tour is best for those who love a good fright as you’ll learn more about Toronto’s history through stories of crime, mystery, and the supernatural.

Tour guid was knowledgable and very personable. She took pride in her presentation and story telling ,we really enjoyed her, Thank you Jack!! -Sherry ( see more reviews )

We’ve taken similar walking tours in places like Vancouver and it’s always interesting to learn about the darker side of a city.

This one-hour ghost tour of Toronto includes:

• Professional Tour Guide / Storyteller
• All Fees and Taxes

Algonquin Provincial Park Day Tour from Toronto

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (45+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

As awesome as Toronto is, you really can’t experience the true wonder of Ontario without also exploring some of its natural attractions. Thankfully, one of its star provincial parks is not that far away.

Enjoy the beauty of Canada’s oldest provincial park on a convenient day trip from Toronto . The forests, lakes, and sweeping views contrast with the busyness of Toronto and you’ll skip walking amongst skyscrapers for canoeing, hiking, swimming, and cliff diving (if you dare). This is an ideal tour for active travellers, especially groups of friends looking for a fun day out in nature.

The canoeing offered on this tour from Toronto is suitable for beginners as you’ll receive a thorough briefing. In addition, both round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned van and provincial park fees are included.

Mike Davis, our guide took us to this beautiful National Park area 2.5 hrs drive out of Toronto. The day exceeded expectations with 2 short, scenic walks, canoeing and swimming as well as accompanying us to the Park’s Visitors Centre. A truly memorable day that I can highly recommend. -Thomas ( see more reviews )

This 12-hour Algonquin Day Tour from Toronto includes:

• Driver/guide
• Transportation from Toronto by minivan or 15-passenger van
• Canoe or snowshoes

Romantic Jewel – Private Helicopter Tour for 2

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (44+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  7 Minutes | 🚀  BOOK NOW

Helicopter tours are always a memorable experience and a great way to get a birds-eye view of a city. So why not bring in some romance and enjoy a private helicopter flight over Toronto ? This romantic flight for two, which also makes for a great date idea in Toronto , offers an exclusive sightseeing tour of Toronto’s downtown skyline, including the iconic CN Tower and the beautiful waterfront. Two framed photographs are included and there’s an option to upgrade to the Interlude flight that also includes wine and chocolates, dessert wine glasses, a souvenir teddy bear and two souvenir helicopter toys. This is a great option for a honeymoon, marriage proposal or any special occasion.

My wife and I took this tour to celebrate her birthday and it was probably the best time we had ever had. It was an unbelievable experience and definitely one we will never forget -Mahar ( see more reviews )

Treat your partner to a truly incredible experience in Toronto with this romantic private helicopter tour over Toronto.

This 7-minute helicopter tour includes:

• 15 km private helicopter tour
• Approximately 7 minutes in the air
• A 6″ x 8″ print of the two of you next to the helicopter

Bruce Peninsula Day Trip from Toronto

⭐️  RATING:  5 out of 5 Stars (22+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  12 Hours | 🚀  BOOK NOW

The lush woodlands, coastal walks, and wildlife-filled wetlands of Bruce Peninsula National Park are situated a 3.5-hour drive north of Toronto, so If you don’t mind a long drive to see one of the most scenic natural areas in Ontario, this tour is for you.

On this Bruce Peninsula Day Trip from Toronto , discover the park’s natural wonders with a knowledgeable guide, including a scenic hike to Big Tub Lighthouse and Inglis Falls, a visit to the fishing village of Tobermory, and plenty of photo opportunities.

It was literally the most fun I had during my visit in Canada. The places we visited were wonderful and the weather was great, albeit this can’t be impacted by Tripadvisor. 😉 Joe was an excellent tour guide: very considerate, always in a good mood and basically part of us. I would definitely recommend doing this trip. -Happy customer (see more reviews)

This 12-hour day trip to the Bruce Peninsula from Toronto includes:

• Snacks and bottled water along the way
• Small-group experience with a maximum of 14 people
• All park fees to Bruce Peninsula National Park
• Transportation from Toronto
• Guided hiking

Royal Ontario Museum Admission Ticket

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (182+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  N/A | 🚀  BOOK NOW

While this isn’t exactly a tour, we wanted to list it here since it’s one of the top museums in Canada and a self-guided tour is a must. The stunning Royal Ontario Museum is dedicated to art, culture, and nature, holding more than 13 million objects in its collections with over 40 galleries and exhibition spaces showcasing art, archaeology, and natural science.

The exhibits explore everything from dinosaurs to mummies, Chinese architecture to Indigenous objects, and so much more, making it an entertaining and educational experience for all ages.

Wow the Canadian History along with the history of dino’s and man. They have more artifacts than I have ever seen over the coarse of my 47 years combined. Take your time and enjoy every part. -David ( see more reviews )

The Royal Ontario Museum is one of Toronto’s top attractions and is great for everyone, including families. Don’t forget to see Gordo the Barosaurus, the largest real fossil dinosaur skeleton mounted in Canada.

This self-guided tour includes:

Hockey Hall of Fame Admission Ticket

⭐️  RATING:  4.5 out of 5 Stars (173+ reviews) | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  N/A | 🚀  BOOK NOW

When it comes to hockey, Canada is the most famous country on Earth. It’s the most popular winter sport in the country and the sport Canada is most known for around the world. With that in mind, no hockey fan should miss the opportunity for a self-guided tour of the Hockey Hall of Fame , which is home to the greatest collection of hockey artifacts from around the world, plus themed exhibits, multimedia stations, theatres, larger-than-life statues, a replica NHL dressing room and the iconic Stanley Cup.

You can even try your hand at goaltending and shooting against life-sized animated versions of today’s top players in the NHLPA Game Time model rink, call the play-by-play and host your own SportsCentre in the TSN Broadcast Zone and much more.

Extremely impressed with the Hockey Hall of Fame. I would recommend anyone to go check it out. They had fun interactive pieces. The layout was well thought of. Loved the Habs locker room, the mask exhibit and of course, the Great Hall with the Stanley Cup Trophy. It was a fun couple of hours. -Konnor ( see more reviews )

In addition to being the #1 spot in the world for hockey fanatics, it’s also located in one of the most beautiful historic buildings in downtown Toronto. Although this isn’t one of the many guided Toronto tours, it’s an excellent place for a self-guided tour for fans of all ages.

As you can see, there are lots of awesome Toronto tours to choose from. Whether you want to walk around the city with a guide, try some delicious food, hit the water to see Toronto’s famous skyline, or soar high in a helicopter for spectacular views, there are many types of Toronto tours for everyone.

For more travel guides about Toronto and Ontario, check out these guides below:

• Weekend Getaways from Toronto
• Niagara Wine Tours
• Toronto in the Winter
• Things to Do in Mississauga
• Things to Do in Hamilton
• The Canadian Canoe Route from Toronto

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

April 19, 2023 at 8:11 am

Hi Matthew, Awesome article ! Thank you for including Toronto Heli Tours TWICE on your list of top tours in Toronto. We are thrilled to be a part of this great story about Toronto’s vibrant tour/sightseeing services. We welcome guests of all ages and all flying experiences. You haven’t seen Toronto until you have explored it by helicopter ! Thank you again for including us ! Clear Skies, Julia Smith President, Toronto Heli Tours (Canadian owned and operated for 26 yrs)

April 19, 2023 at 9:36 am

Thanks, Julia! Hopefully, we get to actually try it out ourselves one day 🙂

September 20, 2023 at 7:43 am

Hi Matthew, Thank you ! We are thrilled to make your Top 23 Toronto Tours list 3x. That’s awesome. You are fabulous supporter of the Toronto Attractions, and we really appreciate it ! Julia & the Heli Crew !

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What Is A Walking Tour?

Walking tours are an amazing way to see a city and learn about a whole lot of culture and history… while also getting some exercise. The Toronto walking tours we’ve put together for you in this post are both fascinating and active.

Why not combine your exercise with your education, and go on a Toronto history walk?

Why Toronto Is A City Made For Amazing Walking Tours

Toronto, while being a relatively new city, has a fascinating and extensive history to explore. In addition to the historical and cultural significance of The Six,  there are also tours you can take for dining, beers, and art!

Both self-guided walking tours in Toronto, and guided tours are a great way to get out, get some fresh air, and enrich your knowledge of our beautiful spot on the planet.

• RELATED: The Best Parks In Calgary For A Casual & Relaxing Stroll

Best Seasons For Walking Tours In Toronto

You can of course do a walking tour any time you would normally walk. However, the best seasons for walking tours in Toronto are spring and fall.

If you’re a fan of walking in the heat, or you want to time your walking tour of Toronto during a more busy, active time, then definitely go on one of these walking tours in the summer. It totally depends on your preference.

However, keep in mind that some of these can take a few hours. Regardless of the season, bring water and snacks… or make sure to pass by one of the amazing restaurants included in some of the tours.

• RELATED: We’ve Found 10 Of The Most Interesting Airbnbs In Toronto

1) The Annex

The Annex is one of the most architecturally fascinating neighbourhoods in Toronto . The buildings along this walk share so much about Toronto’s rich history. The Victoria-Edwardian era homes are so common in the area. You can even see a Regency-revival style home from 1902!

Near the end of this walk, you’ll also get to see a remodelled 1960s apartment building which perfectly demonstrates the shift to modern style buildings. This is really the perfect Toronto walking tour for the architecture nerd.

2) Kingston Market & China Town

Toronto is celebrated as being one of the most multi-cultural cities in Canada. Historic Chinatown in Toronto is so popular with visitors and locals. People love walking tours through Chinatown and Kingston Market partly because of the ethnic shops and restaurants, but also because of the eclectic signage.

Kensington Market and Chinatown are two of Toronto’s most colourful neighbourhoods. They’re also so rich in culture, it’s well worth the three hours to go on this small-group walking tour .

With locally-owned eateries, lanes, and alleyways with tons of art, you won’t be the same person after completing this walking tour.

• RELATED:  The Malahat Skywalk Is A Breathtaking Way To View The Natural Beauty Of BC

3) Distillery District

One of the best parts about a walking tour of the Distillery District is that you can bring your dog. There are so many dog-friendly restaurants and bars here,  your pooch will feel right at home.

The guided walking tour of the Distillery District is one of the best walking tours Toronto has to offer. Not only is it affordable at around $20 CAD, but the tour is also loaded with Victorian Industrial architecture viewing and history.

You’ll learn a lot about the local businesses, and also the evolution of the entire area. There’s also an anecdote about the company that became the largest distillery in the world… now that’s an accomplishment!

4) Toronto Islands Walking Tour

The Toronto Islands are a chain of various-sized islands on Lake Ontario. They’re made up of three larger islands, and several smaller ones too.

This walking tour offers an amazing recreational experience in a peaceful environment. You’ve got incredible views of Toronto, as well as a wealth of attractions to explore.

The walking tour of the Toronto Islands is one of the best self-guided walking tours Toronto has available.

5) The Village of Islington Murals

Walking through streets and buildings decorated with murals can be one of the most enriching ways to immerse yourself in the culture of a city.

The Village of Islington has so many murals to view and explore. Your walking tour through this area of Toronto might take you a lot of extra time as you stop and contemplate all of the artwork.

You can book a guided tour through one of Toronto’s most spectacular art treasures for free. That way, you have an experienced guide filling you in on little-known facts about the artwork. Bonus!

6) University of Toronto Ghost Tours

This 90-minute tour follows a cloaked, lantern-carrying guide through the history of haunting at the University of Toronto. The campus has such beautiful architecture and tree-lined paths. They’re beautiful to explore after dark.

Plus, if you’re a ghost lover or fan of the paranormal, there are plenty of stories to be told about these allegedly haunted grounds.

We hope you enjoy your walking tours of Toronto, whether they’re guided or self-directed.

Related: Check out these day trips you can take from Toronto and get a break from the city.

• best of ontario
• Best of Toronto

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Toronto Free Walking Tour

The best introduction to toronto for any budget.

Gratuity-based 

Tour Capacity

Tour Details

5-7 km / 3-4.5 mile walk

Meeting Location

Berczy Park Your guide will be holding a red umbrella

Important Notes

• Your online booking is only valid requiring that you check in 15 minutes pre-tour.
• The closest restrooms to the tour start location are at Tim Horton’s
• Restrooms are also available at the mid-tour break.
• Due to the nature of the city and the locations we visit, the tour is not wheelchair accessible, however please consider a private tour .
• The tour is best enjoyed by those comfortable with extended walking and standing; not recommended for individuals with limited mobility.
• While walk-ups are welcome based on availability, securing your spot is advised by booking the tour online.
• This tour is not available for school groups or large parties, please book a private tour .

Tour Advantage

• Walk through Historic Old Toronto, Ontario’s capital city, and discover how the small settlement of York became the bustling metropolis of Toronto
• Take photos of iconic spots such as the CN Tower, the Gooderham Building, Union Station, Old and New City Hall and more.
• Walk along Yonge Street, the world’s longest street, through the Financial District, and the PATH underground city
• Discover hidden art and architectural gems
• Hear stories on how Torontonians have influenced Canadian and Global historic events
• Instant Confirmation
• Email & Mobile Tickets Accepted

What’s Included

• Local English-speaking guide, Spanish when selected
• Passionately researched local history
• Recommendations for the best food, entertainment, and nightlife
• Introductions on must-do experiences

What’s Not Included

• Gratuities for your guide ($30/person tells your guide you had an excellent experience)

What to Bring

• Cash or credit card to tip your guide ($30/person says you had an great experience)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Secured camera
• Appropriate clothing/umbrella for the always-changing weather
• Your sense of humour and adventure!

Important...

While we do accept walk-up participants, our tours regularly sell out. To get your preferred tour and to avoid missing out, we highly recommend booking as soon as possible.

Toronto Free Walking Tour - Overview

The Toronto Free Walking Tour is more than a touristy sightseeing excursion; it’s a chance to be immersed in the buzzing downtown of Canada’s largest city. From its humble beginnings as a fur trading outpost and small naval-base to the glittering metropolis of high-rise buildings that stand today, Toronto has a rich and vibrant history, present and future, which can be best experienced by walking the streets with a local. The city’s unique perspective, being made up of almost 50% immigrants from every corner of the world, allows guests to travel the globe all in one city.

Your local guide will make Toronto’s rich history come alive, and will take you past iconic and picture-ready sites that will sure to provide lasting memories. Your guide will recount stories that will immerse you in Toronto culture and lore, and provide recommendations for the rest of your trip for must-see, must-do and must-taste adventures. As you make your way through Toronto, you won’t just be observing the city—you’ll become a part of Toronto’s ongoing story.

So, whether you’re a solo traveller, a family on vacation, or a local revisiting your city’s charm, Toonie Tours promises a Toronto experience like no other. With stories that resonate, moments that captivate, and a personal touch that endears, this is one journey you won’t forget.

Join us, and let the streets of Toronto unfold their tales, one step at a time, always in good company. 

Get the Lay of the Land

This is the perfect tour for your first day in the city. Get your bearings while you explore the must-see sights of the Downtown core, as well as gather recommendations for the rest of your visit in Toronto.

Meet The Locals & Fellow Travelers

We know one of the most exciting things about travelling is meeting new people. This tour attracts the most diverse group of people, from locals to travellers, affluent to budget-conscious, east to west, north to south. Come be part of the diversity and fun!

Friendly, Personable, Award-Winning Guides

Take a tour with a guide who is primed and on-point every time. Our gratuity-based model rewards and retains the best performing guides in the industry. Come see for yourself.

Local Recommendations & Travel Tips

Our knowledgeable, local guides are filled with suggestions for you to make the most of your trip, and they look forward to answering your every question. 

Affordable For Any Budget

Do you have a limited budget? No problem! Never heard of a budget? Also not a problem! We accept your gratuities large and small all the same. 

Time Bound? Opt for The Ultimate Overview

Experience the best of our city in just a few short hours with a tour focused on offering the most coverage and value that you can get

Why Toonie Tours

The best value. hands-down.

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15 Best Toronto Tours and Activities That You’ll Love (2024)

Posted on January 9, 2024

Categories Blog , Canada , Greater Toronto Area , Ontario , Resources , Reviews , Tours

Here are the best Toronto tours and activities to experience when you travel to Toronto, Ontario, Canada. As locals to Toronto, we know all the best things to see and do when you visit the city, whether it’s your first or your fiftieth trip to Toronto. Allow local experts to guide you around the best areas of the city.

This list of the top tours in Toronto showcases the must visit spots for first timers, as well as hidden areas of the city that are equally as important to discover. I’ve included walking tours by day and night, more active adventures like biking and canoeing, and unique tours highlighting the history, architecture and interesting stories throughout the ages.

Posts may be sponsored. Post contains affiliate links. I may be compensated if you make a purchase using my link.

Table of Contents

Quick Summary of the Best Toronto Tours

In a hurry and need to plan your Toronto trip soon? Here’s a brief listing of every tour that I’ll be recommending in this blog post for amazing experiences in Canada’s largest city:

• Best of Toronto Small Group Tour
• Distillery District Walking Tour
• Toronto Film and TV Tour
• Walking Tour of the PATH, Toronto’s Underground City
• Ghost Tour of Toronto

Toronto Guided Night Tour with CN Tower Entry

Downtown toronto bike tour, toronto islands bike tour, toronto islands sunset canoe tour.

• Kensington Market International Food Tour

Toronto Beer Tour

• Candlelight Concerts in Toronto
• Graffiti Tour of Toronto
• Helicopter Tour of Toronto
• Niagara Falls Day Trip from Toronto

Best Toronto Tours: Small Group Tour of the Highlights

For a half day overview of Toronto, check out this Best of Toronto Small Group Tour . This four hour tour will have no more than nine participants total in an intimate, small group setting. You’ll have a chance to connect better with your guide and experience the highlights of Toronto like a local.

Visit Toronto’s most iconic landmark, the CN Tower, taking in views of the city from its observation deck. You’ll also experience an hour long Toronto harbour cruise to see the city skyline from a really fun boat ride. Other stops include St. Lawrence Market and a guided driving tour passing Dundas Square, Queen’s Park and Nathan Phillips Square (Toronto City Hall) and more.

Best Toronto Tours: Distillery District Walking Tour

The Distillery District is best known for the annual Distillery Winter Village (Toronto Christmas Market), though it’s a wonderful area of the city to visit all year long. As the neighbourhood has a very interesting history, it’s best to learn all about it from a qualified guide on this Distillery District Walking Tour .

On your tour, you’ll discover the Victorian Industrial architecture and learn about the company that became the world’s largest distillery. This walking tour is fairly priced and only an hour long, leaving you with ample time to explore the Distillery District on your own after the tour.

Best Toronto Tours: Toronto Film & TV Tour

Did you know that Toronto is a popular film location for movies and television? Some popular shows and films that were made in Toronto include Scott Pilgrim vs the World, Suicide Squad, Suits, The Boys, Handmaids Tale, American Psycho, and more.

On this Toronto Film and TV Tour , you’ll embark on a 2.5 hour walking tour through various neighbourhoods and your guide will explain their role in the productions. You’ll be shown scenes from famous Hollywood productions on a tablet at the actual location. Let’s celebrate Toronto’s booming film industry and uncover the locations behind them.

PATH Underground Walking Tour of Toronto

If you’re from Toronto, you’ve probably gotten lost in the PATH more times than you can count. I still don’t know my way around down there! PATH is an underground network beneath Toronto’s downtown core that allows you to get around more comfortably in bad weather. But, what some people don’t realize is that the PATH connects you to 900 shops, 11 hotels, 500 food establishments, and 5 subway stations!

Now, you can familiarize yourself with the PATH by taking a Walking Tour of the PATH, Toronto’s Underground City . Your guide will also show you how to navigate all 20 miles of the PATH on your own, including the above ground sections, too.

Haunted Walk of Toronto Ghost Tour

Here’s a great evening tour of Toronto that you’ll love, especially if you adore anything spooky. This Ghost Tour of Toronto is a 75 minute, small group guided tour that uncovers some of the creepiest places in the city.

Make sure you wear comfortable shoes as this is a walking tour, showcasing the stories behind the spooky landmarks. Learn about intriguing mysteries, historic crimes and scary supernatural tales from your expert tour guide.

While most group walking tours are during the daytime, here’s a unique experience for you: a Toronto Guided Night Tour with CN Tower Entry . This is a small group tour with a maximum of nine participants. You’ll venture up to the observation deck of the iconic CN Tower to witness the bright, twinkling lights of the cityscape at night.

Some other great stops that you’ll make on your night tour of Toronto include the Distillery District, Cherry Beach, the Toronto sign and more. You’ll receive some time with your guide and some time to explore on your own, as well as transportation to the various locations.

This half day, guided Downtown Toronto Bike Tour takes you on an epic adventure through some of Toronto’s famous landmarks and hidden gems. You’ll stop by the main attractions like Chinatown, City Hall, the Hockey Hall of Fame, the Entertainment District, St Lawrence Market, the Art Gallery of Ontario and more.

At the same time, your guide will teach you about the city’s history, architecture and culture. Along with your guided tour, you’ll receive a bicycle and a helmet for the duration of your tour, as well as bottles of water and snacks.

Looking for a bike tour but in a more natural setting? Head across the water for this Toronto Islands Bike Tour for a 3.5 hour morning guided tour. This is one of the most unique areas of the city where you’ll be able to soak up breathtaking views of Toronto’s skyline.

Not only will you enjoy amazing scenery of the city from across Lake Ontario, but you’ll learn about some interesting points of interest on the Toronto Islands themselves. Cycle over to the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse and the Royal Canadian Yacht Club in this car-free community. You will have a bike and helmet to use during the tour, and your guide will also provide you with water and snacks.

Cycling isn’t the only activity on the Toronto Islands. This Toronto Islands Sunset Canoe Tour offers more unique vantage points of the city as the sun goes down. Soak up the scenery of this tranquil area of the city at dusk and admire the brilliant city skyline from your canoe. What an unforgettable experience!

You’ll paddle around the islands in an authentic, Voyageur canoe replica that was once used by European settlers. An expert guide will be with you in the canoe at all times and you’ll learn how to properly paddle. You’ll drift beneath a historic 1905 bridge on tranquil waterways and paddle around the Bird Sanctuary of the Toronto Islands.

Kensington Market Food Tour

Kensington Market is one of the most vibrant neighbourhoods of Toronto and has one of the most eclectic food scenes in the city. This Kensington Market International Food Tour takes you to the area’s best eateries where you’ll sample everything from Jamaican patties to Tibetan momos. Experiencing Kensington is one of the top things to do in the city.

You’ll visit at least six different eateries for tastings which adds up to be at least a full meal. You won’t leave hungry! There are always vegetarian options available, though you will need to ask your guide in advance about vegan options. Kensington Market is super vegan-friendly, so I doubt this will be an issue!

This beer tour in Toronto is one of the best guided tours we’ve taken in the city. It’s a really fun afternoon, whether you’re visiting Toronto from afar or you’re local to the city like we are. Think of it as a historic walking tour of Toronto, but with beer.

This  Toronto beer tour  strongly focuses on this region’s craft beers with a sprinkling of local history as we travel past the city’s landmarks in the downtown area. If you love walking tours, craft brews, and learning along the way, you’ll love this one. Let’s explore Toronto and beer together.

Best Activities in Toronto: Candlelight Concerts

Although this isn’t a tour, this is one of the best activities in Toronto, as well as one of the best things to do in Toronto at night. Toronto hosts amazing candlelight concerts with several genres and themes that are sure to please everyone.

Candlelight concerts are performed by trained musicians, whether it’s a pianist, string quartet or an entire orchestra. The performances are hosted at unique and magical locations where the stage is surrounded by thousands of flickering candle flames.

For more traditional concerts, you can attend live performances of timeless composers like Mozart, Bach and Vivaldi. There are shows featuring the music of popular artists like Taylor Swift, Coldplay, ABBA, Queen and Pink Floyd. And there are themed candlelight concerts highlighting the music from video games, anime, music by Hans Zimmer, and so much more.

Toronto Graffiti Walking Tour

Toronto has so much amazing street art splashed across many city walls and buildings. However, there are a few key places that are saturated with the most graffiti art that I recommend checking out if you have a short period of time in Toronto.

Tour Guys offers “Toronto’s Original Graffiti Tour” and it comes at a low price – pay only a small administrative fee to book your ticket, and then “tip what you can” for the guide. This 90 minute tour takes you through Toronto’s laneways and back alleys to showcase the best street art and uncover its stories.

To learn more about this tour, check out my review of this Toronto Graffiti Tour . If you’d rather wander around Toronto and check out the graffiti for yourself without a guide, please check out my Self-Guided Tour of Toronto Street Art .

Helicopter City Tour

Fly high over the city when you partake in one of the best Toronto tours, a helicopter city tour . See Toronto as you’ve never seen it before as you soar over the skyscrapers. Catch glimpses of the CN Tower from above.

This is a stunning but brief helicopter tour that will keep you wanting more. Your tour lasts approximately seven minutes in total, and you’ll be left raving about those breathtaking panoramic views. There are a variety of departure times that will suit any schedule.

Best Day Tour From Toronto: Niagara Falls

One of the most popular destinations to visit near Toronto is the magnificent Niagara Falls. If you’re coming to Toronto and you’ve never seen Niagara Falls, you simply must check it out. It can be difficult to take public transportation between Toronto and Niagara Falls, which is why I recommend that you take a day tour.

This Niagara Falls day trip from Toronto is great for independent travelers as Toronto isn’t terribly far from Niagara region. While you will have a tour guide with informative commentary and stops in Niagara Falls, the majority of this trip is enjoying free time in Niagara Falls.

Once you arrive in Niagara Falls, you can choose to take the Hornblower Cruise (aka Maid of the Mist), visit the Skylon Tower, take the Journey Behind the Falls, walk up and down Clifton Hill, or simply admire this world wonder. Here are some fantastic ways to experience Niagara Falls for some ideas on how to spend a few hours there.

More Blog Posts About Toronto

Planning an upcoming visit to Toronto? We’re locals and we know all the best things to see and do in Toronto (and the GTA!). Here are some more articles that might interest you:

• The Best Coffee Shops in Toronto
• Ultimate List of Vegan and Vegan-Friendly Restaurants in Toronto
• The Best Things to Do in Toronto in the Winter
• Best Places to See Christmas Lights in Toronto
• Best Toronto Christmas Events You Need to Experience
• The Best Places to Visit in Toronto
• Visiting High Park During Cherry Blossom Season
• The Best Gardens in Toronto
• Self-Guided Tour of Toronto’s Street Art
• Winter Stations Toronto, a Winter Public Art Display
• 150 Best Things to Do in Toronto and the GTA
• Toronto Beer Tour: Craft Beer and Historic Walking Tour

Need Travel Insurance? You should never leave home without travel insurance! Check out the best rates to make sure you’re covered in case of an emergency or accident.

Lauren is the full-time travel blogger and content creator behind Justin Plus Lauren. She started Justin Plus Lauren in 2013 and has travelled to 50+ countries around the world. Lauren is an expert on vegan travel as one of the very first vegan travel bloggers. She also focuses on outdoor adventure travel, eco and sustainable travel, and creating amazing travel itineraries for cities and small towns.

Step It Up: The Best Urban Walks in Toronto

Here’s are some of the best urban walking routes in Toronto

Klaus Lang/Getty Images

One of the best things about Toronto is how walkable the city is. Not every area is conducive to getting around on foot, but much of the city offers the chance to get outside and explore unique neighbourhoods and scenic green spaces. No matter the season, there’s a good spot to walk in Toronto, encompassing anything from art and architecture, to parks, food and history. Spring and summer are obviously ideal for spending time outdoors, but as long as you dress in layers there’s no reason to bypass a walk during the colder months. Here are seven of the best urban walks in Toronto that you can undertake at any pace you like, spending longer if you want to shop, browse or stop for a coffee or something to eat. 

Roncesvalles Village to the Lake

Amanda Lynn/Getty Images

 A walk along Roncesvalles Avenue south to the lake is a great way to spend a couple of hours in Toronto, getting to know Roncesvalles Village and ending up by the water. Depending on the season and the weather, build in some time to walk along the lake . The boardwalk will take you all along the water and in the warmer months you can grab a spot on the waterfront patio at the Sunnyside Pavilion Café. As you walk along Roncesvalles, you’ll be able to stop in any number of cozy cafes, specialty foods stores, bars and restaurants if you have time to linger.

West Toronto Railpath

TripSavvy / Kristjan Veski

Soon to be extended, the current West Toronto Railpath is 4 miles (6.5 kilometers) long and was completed in 2009. It runs along the Kitchener GO train line from just north of Dupont Street to Dundas Street West and there’s lots to see along the way. The path features public art, as well as Henderson Brewing and the Drake Commissary at Sterling Road. Henderson’s tap room is open seven days a week and has become a popular rest stop along the Railpath for anyone craving a craft beer. Bonus: they're dog-friendly so feel free to bring any four-legged friends. The Drake Commissary offers food and drink all day in a relaxed but upscale setting.

Bloor West Village and High Park

TripSavvy / Kristjan Veski

Start your walk at Runnymede subway station and head west through charming Bloor West Village to High Park, one of the city’s most popular parks. Bloor West Village is filled with independent boutiques, cafes, pubs, gourmet food stores and green grocers making for a pleasant walk. Once you hit Keele Street there’s an entrance to High Park, offering numerous hiking trails as well as a pond, public swimming pool, playgrounds, a restaurant, paved walking trails and landscaped gardens. After your walk, have lunch or a drink in Bloor West Village for a full day of fun.

Union Station to the Distillery District

Making your way from Union Station to the Distillery District you’ll pass by the Hockey Hall of Fame and the Gooderham Building (Toronto’s answer to the Flatiron Building) and then make your way to the St. Lawrence Market (just keep in mind the market is closed on Mondays). Take some time to explore—it was voted the number one market in the world by National Geographic. Here you’ll find a plethora of food vendors selling everything from baked goods and artisan cheese, to produce, spices and prepared foods. You’ll eventually get to the historic Distillery District at Trinity St. with its Victorian-era architecture, specialty shops and restaurants - perfect for grabbing a post-walk meal.

Kensington Market and Chinatown

Suwannee.payne/Wikimedia Commons/ CC BY-SA 3.0

Toronto’s Kensington Market and Chinatown are two of its most interesting neighborhoods and can easily be combined into one of the best walks in the city. Starting at St. Patrick subway station you can walk along Spadina Ave., taking in the Asian markets, dim sum spots, and herbal shops. Continue heading north until you reach Baldwin Ave. at which point you’ll be at Kensington Market. Take your time exploring the many vintage stores, coffee shops and a mind-boggling array of food from around the world (from empanadas to fish tacos).  

Eastern Beaches Boardwalk

Chuck Kahn/EyeEm/Getty Images

The city’s east end is where you’ll find this 2-mile (3.5-kilometer) boardwalk that winds along the city’s eastern beaches from Silver Birch Avenue to Ashbridge's Bay Park, west of Woodbine Avenue. Spend some time walking along the boardwalk, and then just one block away on Queen Street East you change things up by exploring the vibrant east Toronto neighborhood with a small town feel and abundance of shops and eateries should you feel like browsing. 

Lower Don Trail and Corktown Common

BriYYZ/Flickr/ CC BY-SA 2.0

Recently reopened following a lengthy closure, the lower Don Trail is one of the most popular trails in the city, used by pedestrians and cyclists alike. The 2.9-mile (4.7-kilometer) section of multi-use trail runs along the Don River from Pottery Road to Corktown Common and whether strolling or moving at a faster pace, is a serene and scenic way to spend time in the city. Corktown Common is an 18-acre park located at the foot of Lower River Street and Bayview Avenue and weather-permitting, the green space and largest park in the area, is well worth adding to your walk. 

Toronto Guide: Planning Your Trip

Don’t Make These 8 Mistakes in Toronto

17 Awesome Things to Instagram in Toronto

11 Top Free or Cheap Things to Do in Toronto

Guide to Victoria Day in Toronto: Festivals, Events, Things to Do

18 Things to Do in Toronto During the Summer

The Most Popular Toronto Neighborhoods

Where to See the Fall Colors in Toronto

Niagara Falls and Toronto 3-Day Itinerary

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

The 10 Best Restaurants for Mother's Day in Toronto

9 Top Free Things to Do in Toronto in Spring

Yellowstone National Park: The Complete Guide

The 11 Best Day Trips From Buffalo

Toronto Attractions and Highlights

18 Best Things to Do With Kids in Toronto, Ontario

The best hikes and walking trails in and around Toronto

From park strolls to longer hikes, we've found the best and most beautiful walking trails in toronto that'll show you a different side to the city..

Scott Heaney

Published: Wednesday 16th December 2020

Whether you're a hardened hiker or just simply like a stroll, we all know the power of a good walk. In fact, if there's anything the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us, it's the importance of getting outside — and not just because we've been hitting the takeaways pretty hard, you know what we're saying? 

But you don't have to go far for a hike, because Toronto has plenty of walking trails right on its doorstep. We've got parks, paths, ravines, quays and coast aplenty, all just waiting for you to get out and explore — ideal for when you can't escape the city to stay in a  cool cabin  or for a delightful day trip . And while we love taking a walk in the fall, these walks will take you through all the seasons, too, from the early buds of spring to the clear skies of summer. 

So it might seem like the walls are closing in around you, but head out on one of these Toronto walks, get a good lungful of fresh air aaaaand relax. P.S. We know we've got good taste in hikes and hotels, but make sure you check where you're going, mmmmkay? 

12 of the best walking trails in Toronto

Glen stewart ravine, kingston rd. & malvern ave..

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For just a taste of nature, this short and sweet walk only takes about 20 minutes. The 1.3 km trail traverses the lush, forested ravine, changing from a dirt path to a beautiful elevated boardwalk at different parts. If you’re after a side of exercise with your walk, there are some serious butt-burning stairs along the way.

Ontario Place Trillium Park

955 lake shore blvd. w..

Formerly a parking lot, this beautiful new park with plenty of greenspace was designed with consultation from people across Ontario, including the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation. As a celebration of First Nations culture and heritage, there’s a moccasin identifier engraved into one of the large stone walls that act as a gateway to the park. Along the new 1.3 km William G. Davis Trail, you’ll also spot three marker trees — Indigenous People historically used these for navigation. The waterfront trail may be short but it connects with the Martin Goodman Trail and the Pan Am/Parapan Am Trails, which offer more than 2,000 km of continuous pathways.

Toronto music Garden

Queens quay w. & lower spadina ave..

If you’ve never been to this magical spot, it’s hard to believe there’s a literal secret garden smack dab in the middle of downtown, but lo and behold. Walk west of Spadina on Queens’s Quay and you’ll stumble across this beauty. Inspired by Bach's First Suite for Unaccompanied Cello, each of the garden’s features represents a different dance movement within the suite.

Start at the Spadina Quay Wetlands then follow the swirling path as it curves around brightly coloured wildflowers and under overhanging Hackberry trees, up to the grassy steps that create an amphitheatre for live music performances in the summer. In the winter, the garden is made all the more beautiful by snow and twinkling lights.

Beltline Trail

From eglinton ave. w. & caledonia rd. to the don river valley.

Once a railway line in the 1800s, this shrouded path discreetly slices through midtown, offering a whopping 9 km route to walk or cycle. All strung together, this mega trail consists of the York Beltline, Kay Gardener Beltline and the Ravine Beltline. As you pass through the Rosedale, Moore Park and Forest Hill neighbourhoods, you’ll encounter parks and wooded areas, cross over bridges and eventually wind your way down into the Don River Valley. The path gets slightly entangled with other trails in Mount Pleasant Cemetery, but aside from that it’s just a straight shot with a few bends along the way.

Edwards Gardens

755 lawrence ave. e..

This is what Disney movies and dreams are made of — Edwards Gardens is the perfect fairy tale garden if ever there was one. Extensive rock features, bubbling waterfalls and a quaint wooden bridge arching over a creek all set the aesthetically pleasing atmosphere. In warmer months, the former estate garden blooms with perennials, roses and beautifully landscaped greenery. The park is also home to the Toronto Botanical Garden which encompasses 17 different themed gardens spread over four hectares of land. Stroll through this enchanting landscape and enjoy the feeling that woodland creatures could pop out and start singing at any moment.

University of Toronto St. George Campus 

27 king's college circle.

You don’t need to be a student to enter the stunning grounds of UofT’s St. George campus. For Hogwart’s vibes, check out the Trinity College courtyard with its grass swirling in intricate shapes around the quad. Explore outdoor corridors, ivy clad buildings and don’t miss the tree-lined Hoskin Avenue walk where you can do your own studying of architecture in the Collegiate Gothic style such as the remarkable Hart House.

Harbourfront

Queens quay w. from yonge st. to bathurst.

Watching the waves at sunset while planes slowly glide down to land at Billy Bishop is enough to make this walk worthy of our wonder. But this strip of Queen’s Quay from Bathurst to Bay Street offers even more sights to be seen. Follow the paths that weave out to the water’s edge and back to the street to get the full experience. You’ll pass by the Sundial Folly sculpture in Harbour Square Park; HTO beach with its sand and little umbrellas; and Harbourfront’s Natrel Pond, which boasts fountains in the summer and a skating rink with twinkling lights in the winter. Further east, the waterfront walk picks up again with Sugar Beach, Sherbourne Common and the Paul Quarrington Ice Rink.

Humber Bay Park

100 humber bay park rd. w..

There’s plenty to explore in this area that consists of three parks: Humber Bay Park East, Humber Bay Park West and Humber Shores Park. Birdwatching enthusiasts can spot waterfowl and shorebirds, including a wide variety of ducks. In warmer months, check out the Humber Bay Butterfly Habitat — it’s home to wildflowers and greenery that support native butterfly species throughout their lifecycle. At Humber Bay Park East you’ll also find plenty of trails, little ponds and excellent views of the city’s skyline. With parking lots and paved pathways, Humber Bay Park West is an accessible park.

1873 Bloor St. W.

The largest park in the city, this urban oasis stretches all the way from Bloor Street West down to the Queensway. An abundance of trails weave in and out of the natural forest, providing plenty of changing scenery to please your eyes. Stroll past the large Grenadier Pond to see quacking ducks and geese. High Park also features a fenced-in off-leash area where canine companions can burn off some steam.

The park’s trails aren’t maintained in the winter, but when the snow piles up you can cross-country ski anywhere in the park, or go for a glide on the artificial skating rink. In the springtime, the blooming cherry blossoms are a sight to be seen and always draw crowds of visitors.

Don River Valley

550 bayview ave..

The Don River Valley Park has also laid a claim to the bragging rights of being the largest park in the city, but we’ll leave it up to you to decide who really deserves the title. Tucked away from city sounds and concrete, deep in the Don River Valley, this swath of nature feels *almost* like the real deal.

If you’re coming from the Beltline, the trail splits as you head down into the valley. Head left for the Don Valley Brick Works Park, a beautiful greenspace peppered with ponds and wetlands. Spy turtles puttering around in the water and listen to the symphony of frogs and waterfowl. Follow the trail up to the Don Valley Brick Works Park Lookout — it’s a steep hill but you’ll be rewarded with some of the best views of the city skyline.

The Distillery District 

Parliament st. & mill st..

Yes, the pretty twinkling lights of the Distillery District’s Christmas Market never get old, but there’s so much to see in this historic cobble-stoned neighbourhood all year round. With more than 40 boutique shops and lots of restaurants and cafés, you’ll never leave a walk from here empty handed or hungry. Keep your eyes peeled for weddings or a film crew shooting the next big thing against the backdrop of its iconic brick buildings.

Riverdale Park East 

550 broadview ave..

For some of the best views of Toronto’s skyline, head to Riverdale Park East. Golden hour is our favourite time to go because you can catch the sun sinking behind skyscrapers for a pretty spectacular sight. There’s also a giant hill that’s great for tobogganing in the winter. For use in warmer weather, there are seven tennis courts and some outdoor Trekfit fitness equipment to play on. Grab a coffee from Rooster Coffee Broadview for the stroll back home.