Explore Canada's Eastern Cities by Train - 9 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Toronto (Ontario), Explore & Dinner Cruise

Welcome to the largest city in Canada, Toronto! Meet your driver outside the airport for a transfer to your hotel. After refreshing, venture out to explore the area on your own. An excellent place to start is Kensington Market, an eclectic neighborhood with a multicultural mix of supermarkets, street food, hole-in-the-wall boutiques, and vintage clothing stores. Pop in and out of the diverse array of shops or grab a bite to eat before continuing to the Royal Ontario Museum to learn about the country's culture, history, art, and natural wonders.

In the evening, head to the Queens Quay Terminal at the harborfront to board a dinner cruise across Lake Ontario. After finding your reserved seat, stroll along the outer decks for spectacular views of Toronto's iconic skyline as you pass landmarks like the illuminated CN Tower and Rogers Centre, home of the Toronto Blue Jays. When the buffet is served, browse the array of salads, side dishes, entrees, and desserts and sit down to enjoy your meal under the starry skies. If you're visiting on a Friday or Saturday night, a dance floor with a live DJ will open up, closing out your first night in Canada.

Day 2: Day Trip to Niagara Falls & Niagara-on-the-Lake

Start your day with a 1.5-hour transfer to one of North America's most famous natural wonders, Niagara Falls. When you arrive, check out the water crashing over the precipice, then head down to the dock to board a 20-minute boat cruise into the heart of the falls, where you'll immediately be enveloped by the mist and thundering roar of the cascading water. As you cruise, marvel at the unparalleled views of Horseshoe Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and American Falls. Then, enjoy a few hours of free time to explore the area and grab a bite to eat before transferring 30 minutes to Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Drive through the picturesque town of 19th-century architecture, tree-lined streets, and lush floral displays to reach a nearby winery. Tour the vineyard, learn about the winemaking process and the varietals produced in the region's cool climate, and sample an array of wines to please every palate. Be sure to sample the ice wine made from grapes left to freeze on the vines (thereby concentrating their sugars and flavors). After the tasting session, browse the gift shop to choose a wine to take home, then transfer 1.5 hours back to your hotel in Toronto.

Day 3: Half-Day City Tour, Boat Cruise in the Thousand Islands

Join your guide for a half-day tour of Toronto, starting at the CN Tower, the world's tallest freestanding structure until 2007. Head to the lower observation level, where you can walk across a glass floor and peer down at the ground 1,122 feet (342 m) below. Then, take the elevator to the top for far-reaching views of the city and Lake Ontario from the floor-to-ceiling windows or outdoor terrace. You'll follow up with a fully narrated drive through the city, passing landmarks like Nathan Phillips Square, Old City Hall, the waterfront, the University of Toronto, Queens Park, and Dundas Square.

At Nathan Philips Square, snap a picture with the famous Toronto sign and learn about PATH, an underground pedestrian network spanning over 19 miles (30 km), connecting buildings, subway stations, and attractions. Continue to St Lawrence Market, where you'll enjoy free time to browse and sample the array of fresh produce, artisanal food, and international delicacies. You'll end the tour at the harbor and board a boat to cruise across the lake, taking in the city's iconic skyline. If you visit during the off-season, your last stop will be Casa Loma instead, North America's only castle.
 
After the tour, set off on a three-hour transfer to Kingston, your gateway to the Thousand Islands, a group of over 1,800 islands on the St. Lawrence River, straddling the border of the United States and Canada. Board a boat and set sail past lush islands, rocky outcrops, and charming cottages. Learn about the region's storied past, including pirates, rumrunners, and Gilded Age millionaires who once called these islands home. While you cruise, grab a drink or a bite to eat from the full-service bar and canteen on board. After three hours on the water, return to shore and transfer back to your Toronto hotel.

Day 4: Train to Ottawa, Cruise Down the Rideau Canal

Trade Canada's largest city for its capital this morning as you head to Union Station to catch a scenic five-hour train to Ottawa. When you arrive, refresh at your hotel, then transfer to the UNESCO-listed 125-mile-long (202 km) Rideau Canal to board a tranquil 1.5-hour boat cruise. Learn about the canal and its historic locks and bridges from the friendly crew while you pass landmarks like Parliament Hill, Fairmont Château Laurier, and Dows Lake. Back on land, spend the rest of the day exploring the capital at your own pace.

Get a closer look at Parliament Hill, where you can join a guided tour of the Gothic Revival-style buildings and learn about Canada's democratic process and government, including visits to the Senate, House of Commons, and Library of Parliament. Grab a bite to eat at ByWard Market, then continue your self-guided educational tour at the Canadian Museum of History, which overlooks the Ottawa River. Explore the captivating galleries that chronicle key events and milestones in the country's development to end your day before returning to your hotel.

Day 5: Train to Québec City (Québec), Old Québec Walking Tour, Evening Cruise

After just one night in Ottawa, head to the station for a six-hour train journey east to Québec City, the capital of Canada's French-speaking province, Québec. Try to snag a window seat to enjoy views of the Ottawa River and the lush countryside of eastern Ontario transitioning into the rolling hills and charming villages of rural Québec. Freshen up at your hotel, then set off on a walking tour of the UNESCO-listed Old Québec, the only remaining walled city north of Mexico. Follow the narrow cobblestone streets past centuries-old architecture and learn about the city's history as a French colony.

Marvel at iconic landmarks such as the towering Château Frontenac, the historic Place Royale, and the picturesque Petit-Champlain district. In the evening, head to the pier and board a boat for a relaxing cruise along the St. Lawrence River to experience a different perspective of Old Québec, this time illuminated with a warm evening glow. Grab a drink at the onboard bar while you watch the city's key landmarks, like the historic Old Port, pass by. After 3.5 hours on the water, return to the pier and transfer back to your hotel. 

Day 6: Explore Jacques-Cartier National Park

Leave the city behind for the day as you make your way to Jacques-Cartier National Park to explore the pristine forests, meandering rivers, and rugged mountain peaks at your own pace. Follow one of the many hiking trails or partake in activities like canoeing, kayaking, or wildlife watching to spot moose, black bears, and beavers. Those who like to hike will find a route suited to every skill level and interest, but if you're overwhelmed by the choices, book a guided tour to visit the scenic viewpoints, revealing sweeping views of the park's natural beauty.

If you visit during winter, you'll enjoy plenty of seasonal activities, such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snow tubing, or sledding. After a day in the park, return to the city and head to Saint-Roch, a vibrant neighborhood known for its hip and eclectic dining scene. With a mix of trendy cafés, gastropubs, and innovative eateries, it'll be easy to find somewhere to have dinner and a drink. 

Day 7: Visit the Huron-Wendat Museum, Train to Montréal

Start your last morning in Québec City with a visit to the Huron-Wendat Museum, located 30 minutes outside the city. Browse the collection of artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays highlighting the traditions, customs, and way of life of the Huron-Wendat community, a First Nations group of North America. Immerse yourself in the history, culture, and arts of the Huron-Wendat people by joining one of the museum's educational workshops covering a wide range of topics, like traditional crafts, storytelling, and music and dance classes.

In the afternoon, head to the station and jump on a three-hour train to Montréal, Québec's largest city. On arrival, check in to your hotel, then make your way to the popular Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhood of cozy bistros, chic cafés, and intimate eateries for dinner. Then, end your night with a ride on La Grande Roue de Montréal, Canada's largest observation wheel, set on the banks of the St. Lawrence River. Enjoy panoramic views of the Old Port and tranquil water below from your climate-controlled pod before settling in at your hotel for the night. 

Day 8: Old Montréal Walking Tour, Discover Mount Royal

Your penultimate day in Canada starts with a 1.5-hour walking tour of Old Montréal, the city's historic district. Wander down the cobblestone road lined with Victorian-era buildings, bustling squares, and picturesque row houses to see landmarks like City Hall, Place Royale, and the Gothic-Revival Notre-Dame Basilica. After the tour, discover Mount Royal on your own, a sprawling hilltop park with lush greenery, winding trails, and scenic lookout points that provide far-reaching city views. 

With plenty to do here, enjoy strolling along the tranquil paths, picnicking on the grass, or hiking along one of the many trails. You could also stop at Smith House to learn about the park's history, ecology, and recreational activities. End the day at the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts to browse the array of masterpieces spanning centuries and continents. Discover each exhibit, from classical sculptures to contemporary installations, to appreciate the work of renowned artists and emerging talents. 

Day 9: Mile End Food Tour, Depart

Spend your last few hours in Canada on a food tour in Mile End, a laid-back neighborhood with an artsy vibe and delicious Canadian and international cuisine. Follow your local guide through the area's back alleys and start with a Montreal-style bagel, renowned for its distinctive chewy texture and slightly sweet flavor, at St Viateur Bagel. Then, your next stop might be Schwartz's Deli to indulge in a classic smoked meat sandwich piled high with thinly sliced beef brisket.

Be sure to sample the beloved Canadian dish that originated in Québec, poutine, which is made with crispy fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. La Banquise is a great option for poutine as you can try the classic version or add toppings like bacon, onions, hot dogs, or peppers. End the food tour at one of Mile End's top breweries to wash everything down with a craft beer. Then, return to the hotel to grab your bags and meet your driver for a transfer to the airport in time for your flight home. Safe travels!