If you’re planning to hit the major spots in Ontario and Quebec, this 9-day trip covers a lot of ground. It’s a lot of driving, but it’s the most efficient way to see the “Big Four” cities and the Falls in one go. Here’s how I structured my trip last year.
Days 1–2: Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is centered around the massive Horseshoe Falls, where you can get close enough to the brink to feel the spray. Beyond the water, the town functions as a high-energy tourist hub with a mix of neon-lit attractions on Clifton Hill and scenic parks along the Niagara River.
What to do (check out A Complete Guide to Niagara Falls: Best Views and Tips for detailed recommendations and tips):
- View the falls: Walk the Fallsview Trail for the classic views. Remember to check out the falls at night too as there’s colorful lighting on the falls, decorative street lights and fireworks. If you have time, visit the US side of the falls and see the falls from a different angel. There are plenty of trails to do.
- Check out Clifton Hill for a high-energy mix of neon lights, themed attractions, and restaurants that offer a lively, carnival-like break from the natural scenery of the falls. They have upside down house, Niagara SkyWheel, Niagara Speedway, and Dinosaur Adventure Golf to name a few.
- A bit farther away: If you like plants and butterflies, definitely check out Butterfly Conservatory. Over 2,000 vibrantly colored butterflies fluttering freely inside the conservatory. Niagara Parks Power Station can be a good option as it’s the first major power plant on the Canadian side of the Niagara River.
Where to dine:
- Skylon Tower: The food is decent, but you’re really paying for the 360-degree view so you don’t have to fight the crowds on the ground. skylon.com
- Table Rock House Restaurant: The restaurant is right next to the falls. They have floor-to-ceiling windows and you can enjoy the view in a nice environment. But they are popular so it’s better to make a reservation ahead of time.
- Table Rock Bistro + Wine Bar: If you cannot find a seat at Table Rock House Restaurant, you can try at Table Rock Bistro + Wine Bar which is only a few steps away. This place is more casual and they have outdoor seating with the view of the falls. Food is more affordable as well.
- BeaverTails: Every time I’m in Canada, I love to go to Beaver Tails and order Bananarama. BeaverTails is famous for their fried dough pastry usually topped with a variety of sweet toppings. It’s unhealthy but it’s so good.
Where to stay:
- Stay in the Fallsview District. It’s a short walk to the falls. There’ll be uphill/downhill walk. You can also take Falls Incline Railway to avoid climbing up/down the hills. If you have budget, get a room with the Niagara Falls view. To save money, traveling off-season is much cheaper. For example, the hotel price during Thanks Giving is about half of the summer price.
Days 3–4: Toronto
The drive from Niagara is only about 90 minutes, but Toronto traffic can easily double that, so plan accordingly. Village Square in Burlington, Canada is a great stopover that feels like a hidden slice of Europe, featuring cobblestone paths and historic architecture. You can find local boutiques and small eateries in a charming, old-world setting. There’s plenty of street parking around the square.
What to do (check out Best of Toronto: 2-Day Itinerary & Top Things to Do for detailed recommendations and tips):
- Skyline and Waterfront Views: Head to the CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium for the city’s most iconic landmarks, then take a short ferry ride to the Toronto Islands for the best panoramic photos of the downtown skyline.
- City Culture and Markets: Explore the historic St. Lawrence Market for a world-class food scene and visit Nathan Phillips Square to see the famous “Toronto” sign and the unique architecture of City Hall.
Where to stay:
- Stay in the Entertainment District and you’ll be within walking distance of the CN Tower and plenty of food spots. We stayed in the Financial District right Entertainment District as it’s in the middle of the key places of interests mentioned above.
Day 5: Ottawa
The drive to Ottawa is the longest leg (over 4 hours). It’s a smaller, more relaxed city than Toronto. As the capital of Canada, Ottawa is a city defined by its grand Victorian architecture, stately national museums, and the historic Rideau Canal that weaves through its center.
What to do:
- Parliament Hill: The grounds are open for walking. Check out the Centennial Flame and the views of the river from behind the Library of Parliament. If you have time, I recommend taking a tour inside as well.
- ByWard Market: This is the heart of the city’s food scene. Look for the “BeaverTails” stand (the local pastry) and explore the side streets for independent boutiques and flower markets.
- National Gallery of Canada: Housed in a stunning glass-and-granite building, this museum features an expansive collection of Indigenous and Canadian art, including the iconic “Maman” giant spider sculpture standing guard outside.
Where to stay:
- Stick to Downtown or the ByWard Market area as the city is pretty walkable. Personally I feel safer in the downtown area.
Days 6–7: Montreal
It’s about 2 hour drive from Ottawa. Montreal is a captivating blend of European charm and North American energy, where cobblestone streets and 17th-century architecture meet a cutting-edge culinary and arts scene.
What to do (check out Montreal 2-Day Itinerary: The Perfect First-Timer’s Guide for detailed recommendations and tips):
- Old Montreal: Visit the Notre-Dame Basilica (basiliquenotredame.ca). Even if you aren’t religious, the blue-lit interior is one of the most stunning sights in Canada.
- Mount Royal Park: Take the hike up to the Kondiaronk Belvedere. It gives you that iconic postcard view of the downtown skyscrapers with the St. Lawrence River in the background.
Where to stay:
- Old Montreal is great for the vibe, but Le Plateau is where you’ll find the best local restaurants and coffee shops.
Days 8–9: Quebec City
The 2.75-hour drive to Quebec City is pretty straightforward. Quebec City is the soulful heart of French Canada and one of the oldest European settlements in North America. Perched high above the St. Lawrence River, this UNESCO World Heritage site feels like a piece of Europe transported across the Atlantic, defined by its massive stone ramparts, winding cobblestone streets, and the towering silhouette of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.
What to do (check out 2 Days in Quebec City: The Best Sights + 1 Day Winter Magic for detailed recommendations and tips):
- Dufferin Terrace: This is the massive wooden boardwalk in front of the Château Frontenac. For a better view of the hotel, walk up the stairs to the Pierre-Dugua-de-Mons Terrace—it’s the best photography spot in the city.
- Petit Champlain: Located in the Lower Town (take the Funicular down), this is often called the most beautiful street in Canada. It’s narrow, cobblestoned, and filled with local artisan shops.
- Montmorency Falls: Just 15 minutes outside the city. It’s actually taller than Niagara Falls and has a suspension bridge you can walk across for a pretty intense view of the drop.
Where to stay:
- You want to be in Old Quebec (Vieux-Québec). It’s the most walkable part of the city and where all the history is. Just note that the street can be narrow and there tend to be traffic. If you have money, definitely book Fairmont Le Château Frontenac with the river view.
- As I don’t like to drive into Old Quebec, I stayed at Hôtel Château Laurier Québec right outside of Old Quebec. It’s a short walk anyway.
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