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The Ultimate Travel Itinerary: How to Enjoy Canada in a Week
- Day 1: Toronto - CN Tower, Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, Kensington Market
- CN Tower
- Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
- Kensington Market
- Day 2: Toronto - St. Lawrence Market, Casa Loma, Niagara Falls
- St. Lawrence Market
- Casa Loma
- Niagara Falls
- Day 3: Toronto Islands
- Day 4: Ottawa - Parliament Hill, Rideau Canal, Canadian Museum of History, La Terrasse
- Parliament Hill
- Rideau Canal
- Canadian Museum of History
- La Terrasse
- Day 5: Mont-Tremblant
- Day 6: Montreal - Old Montreal, Food Tour, Old Port, Bota Bota
- Old Montreal
- Food Tours
- Old Port
- Bota Bota
- Day 7: Montreal - Mount Royal, Mile End, The AURA Experience
- Mount Royal
- Mile End
- The AURA Experience
- How much money do you need in Canada for a week?
- Accommodation
- Transportation
- Food
- Activities
Ever wondered what it’s like to spend a week in Canada? It’s a big country, and understandably, it can be challenging to plan your schedule when you want to see many places in such a short time.
Lucky for you, I’m a seasoned traveller! In Canada, at least. I’ve driven from city to city, explored many places, tasted different kinds of poutine, and met the friendliest people.
If you want to check out famous sights in Canada in just one week, get that rental ‘cos we’re driving from Toronto to Montreal.
I’m bringing you on a fun-filled Canadian adventure, from the great heights of the CN Tower to gorgeous beaches at Toronto Islands to the historic streets of Old Montreal!
Let’s hit the road!
Day 1: Toronto – CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, Kensington Market
Your Canadian trip starts when you land at Toronto Pearson Airport, which has over 40 airlines connecting travellers to over 160 destinations.
There are various modes of transportation at the airport to drive you to your hotel, like shuttles, car rental services, taxis, and limos. There’s also the UP Express train, which will take you to Union Station in downtown Toronto.
From downtown Toronto, you can take a short break from plane and land travel by eating. There are plenty of restaurants left and right where you can nourish your body before officially starting your first day in Canada!
After filling your tummy, it’s time to head out to the famous telecommunications and observation tower in Toronto!
CN Tower
Media credit: cntower
Website: https://www.cntower.ca/
Address: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON
Contact: 416-868-6937
Operating hours:
- Main Observation Level: Daily, 9:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- The Top (formerly SkyPod): 9:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- EdgeWalk: 10:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Hours are subject to change
At 553 metres high, the CN Tower is for the daredevils who want to see Toronto’s beautiful skyline from way up high! Of course, you do have to wear a safety harness when you’re up top.
The EdgeWalk is one of the must-do in Toronto—that is, if the sky is clear when you visit. Otherwise, just dine at the 360 restaurant or explore the Main Observation Level.
Admission rates aren’t cheap, so we suggest buying bundled tickets to get discounted rates. If you’re a first-time goer in Toronto, the CN Tower is definitely a must-add to your bucket list!
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Media credit: ripleysaquaca
Website: https://www.ripleyaquariums.com/canada/
Address: 288 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON
Contact: 647-351-3474
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Once you’re down from the CN Tower, you’ll find Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. They’re literally beside each other!
With over 20,000 aquatic animals and numerous galleries, it’s a must-visit in Toronto! It’s even better if you’re travelling with kids!
It has plenty of interactive attractions, where you’ll come face-to-face with fishes you only see on TV—or in Finding Nemo. The Ripley’s Aquarium is definitely an unforgettable family destination for your first day in Canada.
Kensington Market
Media credit: kensingtonmarketbia
Website: http://www.kensington-market.ca/
Address: Kensington Market, Toronto, Ontario
A 10-minute drive from Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is Kensington Market, just west of downtown Toronto. It’s a beautiful, vibrant, and diverse neighbourhood that’s a perfect place to end your first day in Canada.
Plan your visit around 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM because that’s when most establishments are open! If time is your friend, head on to Chinatown for authentic Asian food, just adjacent to Kensington Market.
Day 2: Toronto – St. Lawrence Market, Casa Loma, Niagara Falls
You’ve probably got enough rest and sleep for your second day in Canada. It’s time to get up and see more of Toronto—there’s just a tonne to do!
Now, we’ll take a trip to St. Lawrence Market, Casa Loma, and the famous Niagara Falls!
St. Lawrence Market
Media credit: stlawrencemarket
Website: http://www.stlawrencemarket.com/
Address: St. Lawrence Market, Toronto, ON
Contact:
- 416-392-7219
- [email protected]
Operating hours:
North / Farmer’s Market:
- Saturday: 5:00 AM – 3:00 PM
South Market:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Visiting Toronto isn’t complete without trying out delicious food at the huge St. Lawrence Market. On Saturdays, the North side opens at 5:00 in the morning!
There are plenty of breakfast options to fill your tummy, from fresh fruits and vegetables to baked goodies! With breakfast at the public market, you’ve got enough energy to start your second day in this chilly country!
Casa Loma
Media credit: casalomatoronto
Website: https://casaloma.ca/
Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON
Contact:
- 416-923-1171
- [email protected]
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM
From St. Lawrence Market, Casa Loma is just a 30-minute drive, depending on Toronto traffic. The majestic castle was built in 1914, located in midtown Toronto.
With its Gothic-revival style, sandstone towers, and spires, Casa Loma is the perfect destination for Instagram-worthy photos! There are 98 intricately designed rooms in this 64,700-square-foot property!
It served as the setting for many Hollywood movies, such as X-Men, Crimson Peak, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, and Chicago! Before visiting, maybe wear an X-Men-inspired outfit, eh?
Niagara Falls
Media credit: niagaraparks
Website: https://www.niagarafallstourism.com/
Address: Niagara Falls, ON, Canada
Contact:
- +1 (905) 356-6061
- +1 (800) 563-2557
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 24 hours
Which side of Niagara Falls looks the best? The Canadian side, no doubt! We recommend visiting the majestic Falls at night to see the spectacular light show.
It doesn’t get any better than seeing Niagara Falls turn into a vibrant, multicoloured masterpiece. It’s undoubtedly an unparalleled experience for a traveller.
Day 3: Toronto Islands
Media credit: cityofto
Website: https://www.torontoisland.com/
Address: St Lawrence-East Bayfront-The Islands, ON
Ferry Schedule: Available on the website
Toronto Islands is worth it for the city views alone! It has 15 islands, making it an ideal day trip in the city.
You can reach this scenic destination with a quick 13-minute ferry ride from downtown. No worries about getting back to your hotel because ferries depart every 30 to 40 minutes.
With a network of pathways and bridges linking the islands, you can easily go from one end to another. You can also explore via guided tours, biking, or kayaking—ideal for solo travellers and groups!
Here, we suggest bringing your swimsuits because you can relax at the beach. There are four: Ward’s Island Beach, Centre Island Beach, Gibraltar Point Beach, and Hanlan’s Point Beach (this one has a clothing-optional area, by the way).
No Canadian (or traveller) goes hungry here! There are plenty of restaurants you can eat at while overlooking the city views. We suggest sipping on locally brewed beer.
Day 4: Ottawa – Parliament Hill, Rideau Canal, Canadian Museum of History, La Terrasse
A visit to Canada isn’t complete without taking a trip to its capital city, Ottawa! It’s a vibrant city that’s around 4 hours and 26 minutes from Toronto via train—or 1 hour via plane!
Parliament Hill
Media credit: ourcommonsca
Website: https://www.parl.ca/
Address: Wellington St, Ottawa, ON
Contact: 1-866-599-4999
Operating hours: Depends on availability
Start your day by checking out Parliament Hill, where Canada’s important decisions take place. The Parliament Building, however, is undergoing significant renovations, which can last up to the year 2030.
But the upper chamber of the Senate of Canada Building, the House of Commons, and the east block are open to the public. If you’re interested in seeing where Canadian political history is made, check out the free guided tours—in French and English!
How to get there? We recommend taking the O-Train Line 1, which stops at the Parliament if you want to avoid the nightmare parking downtown. You can opt to take the bus, which has several routes that pass near The Hill.
Rideau Canal
Media credit: ottawatourism
Website: https://www.visitrideaucanal.com/
Address: Ottawa, ON, Canada
Contact:
Parks Canada
- 1-888-773-8888
- [email protected]
Ottawa Boat Cruise – Rideau Canal Cruise
- 819-246-3855
- [email protected]
Operating hours: Depending on the cruise
Rideau Canal, a National Historic Site, is another must-visit in the capital! Take a tranquil boat cruise at the slackwater canal, which connects Ottawa with Kingston and Lake Ontario.
See some historic sites as you glide along part of the 202 km route. Every winter, the canal turns into a really long skating rink—it’s a free activity and open to the public! An incredible experience for every Ottawa visitor!
It’s accessible by bus or car, which can take only minutes via Queen Elizabeth Driveway.
Canadian Museum of History
Media credit: canmushistory
Website: https://www.historymuseum.ca/
Address: 100 Laurier St, Gatineau, QC
Contact:
- 819-776-7000
- Toll-free: 1-800-555-5621
- TTY for individuals with hearing disabilities: 819-776-7003
Operating hours:
Starting October 9, 2023 (hours subject to change)
- Monday – Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Numerous treasures await every visitor at the Canadian Museum of History. It’s one of the most-visited museums in the country, making it a can’t-miss in the capital!
With plenty of exhibitions, history buffs will learn about Canada’s culture, people, anthropological treasures, and artifacts. There’s a tonne to see, so save three to five hours for this destination!
If you’re travelling with kids, the Canadian Children’s Museum section is a realm of imagination come to life! It’s a huge educational playground for kiddos!
Even though this museum is already in Quebec, don’t worry! It’s just a short 5-minute drive from Plaza Bridge, where you’ll find Rideau Canal Lockstations 1 to 8.
La Terrasse
Media credit: fairmontlaurier
Website: https://www.chateaulaurier.com/dine/la-terrasse/
Address: 1 Rideau St, Ottawa, ON
Contact:
- +1 613-241-1414
- [email protected]
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:45 PM
End your day in Ottawa at La Terrasse in Fairmont Chateau Laurier. It’s a hidden gem that offers scenic views of Parliament Hill and Ottawa River—believe us, it’s relaxing here.
Unwind with a cocktail in hand and treat yourself to a delectable seafood platter. It’s a perfect way to conclude the day in Ottawa before embarking on your travels the following day!
Day 5: Mont-Tremblant
Media credit: monttremblant
Website: https://www.tremblant.ca/
Address: Mont-Tremblant, QC
Contact: 1-888-738-1777
Mont-Tremblant is a 2-hour drive from Ottawa. It’s a charming municipality offering plenty of outdoor activities, whether summer or winter! It needs at least one day of visit!
It’s impossible not to fall in love with this idyllic town. While it’s a famous ski resort, it doesn’t mean you’ll get bored in the summer.
Go cani-hiking with a sled dog, horseback riding, meet a falcon, try summer skiing, and ride a gondola to reach the summit of Tremblant. You cannot leave without tasting the famous raclette at La Savoie—reserve a table because it gets full!
Day 6: Montreal – Old Montreal, Food Tour, Old Port, Bota Bota
An hour or two’s drive from Mont-Tremblant is where you’ll find Montreal, known for its French heritage and food scene. It’s North America’s largest French-speaking city, which is evident in its atmosphere.
Old Montreal
Address: Vieux-Montréal, Montreal, QC
Every Canadian knows how picturesque and historical Old Montreal is. Walk the cobblestone streets and find a quaint restaurant (there are many!) to try local food.
Immerse yourself in Montreal culture by joining guided tours and visiting landmarks. The guided tour (has a $5 booking fee) will take you to Place Jacques-Cartier, Notre-Dame de Bonsecours Chapel, and Rue Saint-Jacques West.
Don’t forget to drop by the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal. It remains breathtaking, no matter how many times we’ve been there!
We also suggest trying Cafe Myriade’s cappuccino (or hot chocolate if you prefer) paired with a buttery croissant! Why don’t you bring home a bag of coffee beans as a souvenir?
Food Tours
Media credit: localmontrealtours
Contact: 1-438-600-0501
No visit to Montreal is complete without joining a food tour, like the Local Montreal Food Tour. It’s the best way to taste the local cuisine, and where you can also meet fellow travellers!
Most food tours will make sure you taste traditional poutine, local ice cream, and famous bagels. Don’t leave Montreal without tasting St. Viateur and Fairmount bagels and answer the age-old question, “Which one has the best-tasting bagel?”
Old Port
Media credit: vieuxportmtl
Address: Vieux-Port de Montréal, Montreal, QC
A summer paradise filled with local food, thrilling activities, and a place for lazy days at the beach. Old Port of Montreal is ideal for a leisurely trip.
Enjoy the city views by riding the Ferris wheel, try the adrenaline-pumping zipline, or walk along the port at your own pace. If you’re lucky, you might even get to join a festival or two—we love festivals around here!
Bota Bota
Media credit: botabotamtl
Website: https://botabota.ca/en
Address: Entrée McGill et, R. de la Commune O, Montréal, QC
Contact: 514-284-0333
Operating hours:
- Monday – Thursday: 10 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday – Sunday: 8:40 AM – 10:00 PM
With all the walking, driving, and travelling, it’s time to relax your body at Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau. It’s a unique and luxurious spa on a boat forever docked at Old Port.
The Water Circuit is a must-do for a luxurious and soothing time. But the Seaside treatment is pretty relaxing too, as you get a full body massage. Say goodbye to foot fatigue!
Day 7: Montreal – Mount Royal, Mile End, The AURA Experience
Image Ideas:
- Skyline of Montreal at night
- Interior of the Notre Dame Basilica of Montreal
On your last day, explore more of Montreal. Depending on your flight, you may not get to spend the whole day, so we recommend a laid-back schedule.
The Montréal-Trudeau International Airport is where you can depart and end your week’s stay in Canada. The 747 bus line runs daily for 24 hours for a hassle-free commute!
Mount Royal
Media credit: lemontroyal
Address: Montreal, QC
Get up early for a hike at Mount Royal. It’s in the heart of Montreal, making it accessible by metro, bus, or taxi.
The park is free, making it a budget-friendly travel destination. Hiking up will give you a perfect view of the St. Lawrence River, but the best part is it’s a soothing walk because you’re so close to nature.
Try to get there early in the morning to enjoy the breeze. The Mount Royal park gets crowded, especially on weekends.
Mile End
Mile credit: montreal
Address: Mile End, Montreal, QC
Mile End, a laid-back neighbourhood, is an 11 to 15-minute car ride from Mount Royal. It’s an ideal way to end your short hike at the park.
You’ll find many shops and restaurants here—good news for last-minute shoppers! We also have a few eatery suggestions since travellers can get overwhelmed choosing where to eat!
Fabergé Restaurant has the best brunch menu. The chicken and waffle, breakfast poutine, and pulled pork sandwich are must-eats.
For dessert, go to Iconoglace at Rue Bélanger, where the ice cream menu changes a lot. Try the affogato, which is just *chef’s kiss*.
Then go to Guillaume, a boulangerie, for one of the best sourdough breads. Another favourite of ours is the white chocolate and vanilla brioche, which is to-die-for.
The AURA Experience
Media credit: basiliquenotredame
Website: https://www.basiliquenotredame.ca/en/
Address: 110 Notre-Dame St W, Montreal, QC
Contact: 514-842-2925
Operating hours: Schedule subject to change
If you can stay until the evening, check out the AURA Experience at the Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal.
The gorgeous basilica has a wall of organ pipes, colourful stained glass windows, and wood carvings. The captivating interior is like a painting brought to life.
Imagine adding a stunning light and sound show! It’s a definite must-see for tourists—every Montrealer will always recommend it!
Not to brag, but the basilica will exceed every expectation you have! It’s the perfect way to end your 7-day Canadian trip!
How much money do you need in Canada for a week?
Budgeting your 7-day trip to Canada will have varying factors. Are you travelling alone or with family? Do you plan to splurge? Will you stay at a budget hotel?
It’s best to have at least $200 per day. With that said, expect roughly $1,400 a week, excluding plane tickets.
Of course, your budget will vary depending on your travel activities. More attractions mean more admission fees and major cities will cost more on food, hotels, activities, and transportation.
Let’s break down the necessary costs you need in Canada.
Accommodation
A 1-night stay at a budget-friendly hotel in Canada can cost $100 to $200, depending on the location. High-end hotels can charge a starting rate of $400 a night, and major cities like Toronto will cost way more than Montreal.
Transportation
Canada’s public transportation rates will depend on the city. Toronto has a pricier monthly pass than Ottawa. On average, one-way fares are usually $2.50 to $4.00.
If you plan on renting a car, there are $80-a-day vehicles, not including gas. Bigger cars, like SUVs, will be pricier.
Food
For food expenses, you can get by on $10 to $20 per meal, per person. But if you want to try out more expensive dining, expect up to $40 per meal.
You can find cheap places in Canada. So, if you want to save, avoid high-end restaurants (mostly those requiring reservations!).
Activities
Now, there are plenty of free activities in Canada. But popular tourist spots, like Toronto’s CN Tower, will naturally be pricier at $45 to $47 for one adult.
Try to look for places that don’t require entrance fees. Parliament Hill and Niagara Falls (except attractions) are free to visit!
