Exploring Toronto: A Guide To 72 Hours In Canada’s Largest City

What’s your first thought when it comes to things to do when exploring Toronto? Probably catching a hockey game or a glimpse of the CN Tower. These are obviously the top of every guide to the city, but there is also so much else to enjoy and admire on what can easily be a bustling weekend getaway.

Canada’s largest city is a vibrant mosaic of cultures, neighbourhoods, and experiences. From an interesting food scene to trendy art districts, Toronto is a city that thrives on diversity and energy. Whether you’re strolling through the cobblestone lanes of the Distillery District or admiring street art in Kensington Market, every corner of the city offers something fresh and unexpected. Over the span of 72 hours, you can explore stunning waterfronts, climb historic castles, indulge in global cuisines, and discover the pulse of a city that’s always evolving. 

Travel and Accommodation in Toronto

Travelling to Toronto is easy thanks to its well-connected Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)), which offers both domestic and international flights. 

The city boasts an efficient public transportation system, including subways, streetcars (basically trams), and buses. A single fare is $3.25 CAD, and a day pass costs $13.50 CAD for unlimited rides. For convenience of exploring Toronto, consider purchasing a PRESTO card or downloading the digital version to your Apple Wallet, which can be loaded with funds for tap-and-go access. 

Cycling is another popular mode of transportation via Bike Share Toronto, with a 3-day pass priced at $15 CAD. Passes can be purchased at station kiosks or via the PBSC app.

Toronto offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences:

• Luxury: St. Regis Toronto
• Mid-Range: The Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown 
• Budget-Friendly: the Chelsea Hotel Toronto 

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Ten Things To Do In Toronto

CN Tower

Every big city has a landmark that to be blunt, is not worth the hype. Standing at over 550 meters tall, CN Tower is an iconic part of Toronto’s skyline and offers a bird’s eye view of the entire city but is genuinely better enjoyed from a distance. Save your money and skip the observation deck for a gazing upon the skyline from Toronto Island or Riverdale Park instead. That being said, the EdgeWalk, where you can walk around the tower is a thrilling experience that gives you a completely different perspective of Toronto and is absolutely worth the time. 

Hockey Hall of Fame 

For sports enthusiasts, the Hockey Hall of Fame is an absolute must-see. This world-renowned museum celebrates Canada’s most beloved sport and its rich legacy, offering a deep dive into the history of hockey with interactive exhibits, trophies, and memorabilia. It’s the perfect place to indulge Toronto’s otherwise limited culture and avoid weather if you need to!

Toronto Islands

Escape the city’s hustle and bustle by taking a ferry to the Toronto Islands, a serene paradise just a short walk from downtown. With stunning views of Lake Ontario and the Toronto skyline, the islands are a perfect spot for picnics, cycling, or simply relaxing on one of the many beaches. Whether you’re exploring the charming islands on foot or enjoying a tranquil boat ride, the natural beauty of this place is a refreshing break from urban life.

St. Lawrence Market

For a taste of Toronto’s vibrant food scene, head to St. Lawrence Market, one of the world’s top food markets. This historic market is packed with vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods. Whether you’re looking to sample local cuisine like poutine and butter tarts or international delicacies, there’s something to satisfy every craving here.

Casa Loma

Casa Loma is a striking Gothic Revival mansion built in the early 20th century by Sir Henry Pellatt as a testament to his ambitious dream and love of European architecture. Perched on a hill, this almost fairytale-like structure is one of Toronto’s more unique attractions as is stands in stark contracts to the rest of the city. Exuding all the grandeur of an authentic medieval castle, visitors can wander through a maze of secret passageways, including a hidden staircase behind a bookcase and a tunnel leading to the stables and carriage house.

Riverdale Park

For a slice of green space within in the concrete jungle, Riverdale Park is one of Toronto’s best spots to unwind with a Tim Horton’s treat after hours of exploring. Nestled in the heart of the city, this park offers sprawling lawns, walking paths, and a beautiful view of the Toronto skyline. 

The Great Library

Arguable one the most underrated things to do while exploring Toronto is a book lovers dream. The Great Library at the Toronto Reference Library with its awe-inspiring design and vast collection of resources, is both a place of learning and an architectural marvel. Grab a coffee and an hour in this peaceful retreat for reading or simply soaking in the building’s stunning beauty. 

Scarborough Bluffs

Much like the CN Tower observation deck, Scarborough Bluffs is another one of Toronto’s incredibly underwhelming attractions, with the landscape and hiking trails not living up to what you would stereotypically expect from Canadian natural beauty. Nevertheless, if you have time to kill, Lake Ontario’s shimmering waters and the towering Scarborough Bluffs offer a lovely place to breathe in fresh air and reconnect with the serenity of nature (unless you find yourself here in summer).

Sports Events: Football, Baseball, and Hockey

Toronto is a sports-loving city, and there’s no better way to connect with the locals than by attending a live game. Whether you’re a fan of football, baseball, or hockey, Toronto has teams for each sport:

• Toronto FC offer interesting MLS action.
• The Toronto Blue Jays provide thrilling Major League Baseball games at the Rogers Centre.
• And of course, the Toronto Maple Leafs deliver world-class hockey at the Scotiabank Arena.

Make sure to check out the team schedules and plan accordingly!

Take A Day Trip To Niagara Falls

After exploring Toronto, the only next logical thing to do is take a short drive or easy 2-hour train ride to see one of the world’s most famous natural wonders — Niagara Falls. This unforgettable destination and the sheer power of the attraction is a must-see for anyone visiting the Toronto area. 

You can choose from several vantage points to take in the awe-inspiring views — stroll along the Niagara Parkway, ride the zipline, visit Table Rock Welcome Centre, or take an elevator down to the Journey Behind the Falls, where you’ll stand behind the cascading curtain of water. For the most exhilarating encounter, hop aboard the Niagara City Cruises boat, which takes you right into the mist at the base of Horseshoe Falls. Be prepared to get wet — but don’t worry, ponchos are provided!

Beyond the falls themselves, Niagara also offers a full day’s worth of activities, including the picturesque Niagara-on-the-Lake which is a charming 19th-century village with picture-perfect natural beauty, historic architecture, and small-town warmth. Tree-lined streets are dotted with impeccably preserved heritage buildings, boutique shops, lush vineyards and world-class wineries, making it an ideal destination for wine lovers and romantics alike.

One thing to keep in mind during this day trip is that the time of year you choose to visit can make a big difference in your experience:

• Summer: Expect large crowds, long lines, and peak prices — with the silver lining of every major attraction is open, including boat rides, zip lines, and fireworks over the falls. It’s perfect for families and first-time visitors who want the full experience.
• Autumn: fewer tourists mean a more relaxed pace, and the fall foliage is stunning. While some attractions begin to wind down after October, you’ll still find plenty to do. It’s a great time for photographers and those seeking a more serene atmosphere.
• Winter (late November to early April): if you don’t mind the cold, winter offers a magical version of Niagara Falls, with shimmering mist coating the trees and railings and the water freezing if temperatures drop drastically. Most attractions are closed, but the views are spectacular, and crowds are almost non-existent.
• Spring: as the snow melts and the falls swell with runoff, this is a beautiful time to visit. The crowds haven’t yet arrived, and a few attractions start to reopen, offering a nice balance between quiet and activity.

Pro Tip: Weekdays and early mornings offer a quieter experience year-round, and booking tickets for boat tours or observation decks in advance can save you time.

Whether you’re looking for heart-pounding adventure, a peaceful nature escape, or just an unforgettable photo op, Niagara Falls delivers — and all just a short trip from Toronto.

Practical Information About Canada

Location: North America  

National Languages: English and French

Currency: Canadian Dollar  

Neighbouring Countries: United States of America