2 Days in Toronto Itinerary: Best Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Toronto Itinerary Day 1

CN Tower, Old Toronto, & Toronto Islands

10:00 am: CN Tower

The CN Tower is arguably the most iconic skyscraper in the Toronto skyline. Standing at a little over 550 meters tall, the tower is the tallest building in North America and was named one of the seven civil engineering wonders of the world.

On a visit to the CN Tower, you can tour the two observation decks, have lunch or dinner at the revolving 360-degree restaurant, and step out onto the outdoor terrace and glass floor walkway.

The views from the Main Observation Level are fantastic, where you’re able to look out over the entire city of Toronto. On the same level are a few different food stalls and tables if you’d like to grab a bite and enjoy the views.

The view from the Main Observation Level | 2 Days in Toronto Itinerary

The Skypod is the higher of the two observation levels, located 33 stories higher than the Main Observation Level. The views are amazing and on a clear day you’ll even be able to see as far as Niagara Falls.

Looking for more of a thrill while in Toronto? The CN Tower also features the Edgewalk, a hands-free walkway for guests to traverse 116 stories above the ground. Guests are secured with nothing more than a cable as they get to experience the views from a more upfront point of view.

Hours and Admission Costs

Hours: 10 am – 9 pm
Main Observation Level: Adults ($43 CAD) Youth & Seniors ($30 CAD)
Adding on the Skypod adds an extra $10 CAD
Edgewalk: $199 – $225 CAD, depending on the day
Website: Get updated pricing and hours here.

10:45 am: Hockey Hall of Fame

From the CN Tower, it is a 15-minute walk to the Hockey Hall of Fame.

The Hockey Hall of Fame is the world’s largest public collection of hockey memorabilia, and home to the Stanley Cup.

Hockey Hall of Fame | 2 Days in Toronto Itinerary

Stanley Cup

Featured are exhibits showcasing relics dating back to the beginning of the sport to modern jerseys and gear. There are also plenty of fun and interactive exhibits that are well worth your time to check out. From the biggest hockey fans to those who know very little about the sport, you’re bound to learn something new and have fun in the process.

Website: Get hours and pricing on the official website.

12:00 pm: Gooderham Building

As you continue your tour of Old Toronto, make sure to check out the Gooderham Building, located only a block away from the Hockey Hall of Fame.

This historical site is one of the most picturesque buildings in the city. The Gooderham Building also bears a striking resemblance to the Flatiron Building in New York City.

The Gooderham Building | 2 Days in Toronto Itinerary

12:15 pm: Grab a Bite at St. Lawrence Market

Continue one block past the Gooderham Building to the St. Lawrence Market.

St Lawrence Market | 2 Days in Toronto Itinerary

Inside the St. Lawrence Market

Located in Toronto’s historic old town district, St. Lawrence Market is one of the top foodie destinations in the city. The indoor market consists of a variety of stalls where vendors offer fresh products from the region. You’ll find fresh cuts of meat, delicious seafood, fruits, cheese, and wine. Whatever you’re craving, you’ll find it at St. Lawrence Market.

Hours: Click here for updated hours.

1:30 pm: Visit the Distillery District

From St. Lawrence Market, it is a 15-minute walk or a quick taxi ride along The Esplanade to the Distillery District.

Located on the edge of Old Toronto, The Distillery District is a collection of shops and restaurants on the outskirts of Toronto’s old town district, famed for its Victorian industrial architecture and hub for culture and entertainment. The neighborhood was originally a whiskey distillery in the 19th century and was ultimately transformed into what you see today.

While you’re here, settle for a more relaxed vibe as you wander the neighborhood and take in the history. You’ll often find live entertainment here as well.

Toronto’s Distillery District | 2 Days in Toronto Itinerary

3:00 pm: Wander Toronto’s Harbourfront

A trip to Toronto would be incomplete without strolling around the city’s harbourfront. Featured here are a great range of restaurants, bars, and shops. Breathe some fresh air at Harbour Square Park and catch a ferry to the nearby islands!

From the Distillery District, it is a 30-minute walk to get here. To save your steps, hire an Uber or taxi.

4:00 pm: Toronto Islands

For the best views of the Toronto skyline, look no further than the Toronto Islands Park. This is a hotspot in Toronto during the summer months, where visitors can spend time on the beach, on the water, or out for a picnic. The islands are roughly 3 miles from end to end, and connected through a series of pathways and bridges.

This itinerary gives you several hours to wander the park and really soak in the views of the skyline. Trust me, these views never get old. If you’re visiting in the winter months you’ll even be able to catch the sunset (although be prepared for some pretty cold weather).

The view of the Toronto skyline from the ferry ride | 2 Days in Toronto Itinerary

For more information about things to do on the islands, visit the official website. You can also get the ferry schedule here.

For information regarding the ferry, click here.

You can also take this bike tour of the Toronto Islands, which includes your ferry tickets and bicycle rental.

6:30 pm: Dinner at Goodman’s Pub & Kitchen

Located only a few minutes walk away from the ferry station, Goodman’s Pub & Kitchen is the perfect spot to end your first day in Toronto. This restaurant gets amazing reviews and offers stunning views out over the harbourfront.

Goodman’s Pub & Kitchen | 2 Days in Toronto Itinerary

This is the end of your first day in Toronto, so if you’d like to allocate more time at one of the previous sites that is completely possible. Just be prepared for a later dinner, but that becomes a personal preference. Don’t forget to get some rest in preparation for day 2 of this Toronto Itinerary.

Toronto Itinerary Day 2

Casa Loma & Downtown Toronto

9:30 am: Casa Loma

We begin our day at one of the only full-sized castles in North America. It was constructed in the early 20th century for Sir Henry Pellatt as a mansion located in midtown Toronto. The house has since become a historical exhibit for the public to enjoy.

Arriving at Casa Loma is a memorable experience in itself. You’ll be in the middle of a neighborhood on the outskirts of Toronto, and without warning a castle appears right in front of you. It’s one of the most memorable experiences Toronto has to offer.

At surface level, Casa Loma appears to be an impressively constructed mansion that’s oddly placed directly outside Toronto’s city center. But a full visit here will reveal a lot more than just fancy ballrooms. You’ll find a movie theater, secret tunnels, and even a wax museum! The castle also features three hidden passageways, one of which has never been found. Will you be lucky enough to discover the final one?

Casa Loma | 2 Days in Toronto Itinerary

Inside Casa Loma | 2 Days in Toronto Itinerary

Hours: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm, open daily. Last admission 4:30pm
Cost: Adult $40CAD
Website: Get updated hours and pricing on the official website.

12:00 pm: Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum is the largest museum for world cultures and natural history in Canada. From dinosaur fossils to historic artifacts and works of art, the ROM has it all. We found that there was no shortage of cool stuff to see here and had a blast spending a few hours walking between exhibits.

This itinerary gives you 2 hours to fully experience the museum. Enjoy your time at the ROM!

Royal Ontario Museum | 2 Days in Toronto Itinerary

Hours: Open Tues-Sun from 10:00am – 5:30pm. Closed Mondays
Cost: Adult $23CAD, Child (4-14yr) $14CAD

2:00 pm: Lunch at Hemingway’s Restaurant

Hemingway’s was one of our favorite restaurants in Toronto. Located a block away from the Royal Ontario Museum, this restaurant is a New Zealand inspired rooftop bar and grill. Hemingway’s has a great selection of food and beer, and also isn’t on the pricey side. Their kitchen is also open everyday of the year until 2am!

Hemingway’s | 2 Days in Toronto Itinerary

4:00 pm: Art Gallery of Ontario

Another great museum to spend an afternoon at, the Art Gallery of Ontario is Toronto’s largest collection of art and one of the largest museums in North America. For any and all art-lovers out there, this museum is highly recommended.

Hours: Opens 10:30 am, closes between 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm depending on day.
Cost: Adult $25CAD, ages 25 and under receive free admission
Website: Get updated hours and pricing on the official website.

To get here from the ROM and Hemingway’s, it is a 30-minute walk. If you have a car, you can drive and park in the city center or hire an Uber.

5:30 pm: Yonge-Dundas Square

Referred to as the “Times Square of Toronto”, Yonge-Dundas Square is a hub of shops and entertainment. Browse the nearby stores and watch the street performers at work!

Yonge-Dundas Square | JHVEPhoto/shutterstock.com

6:30 pm: Nathan Phillips Square

Found right in the center of downtown Toronto, Nathan Phillips Square is the colorful and picturesque heart of the city. Take a picture with the Toronto sign, with the Toronto City Hall set as a backdrop. The fountain that sits in front of the sign is converted into an ice rink during the winter season, so make sure to strap on some skates while you’re here!

Nathan Phillips Square | 2 Days in Toronto Itinerary

On the edge of the square, you’ll also find the Toronto Old City Hall, another notable landmark with its clocktower.

7:00 pm: Dinner at The Carbon Bar

For the final stop on this itinerary, make sure to grab dinner at The Carbon Bar. Only a 5 minute walk from Nathan Phillips Square, this restaurant and bar specializes in some pretty exceptional barbeque. This spot gets excellent reviews and is the perfect way to savor the end of your trip while leaving you wanting more.

How to Get Around Toronto

Most of the sites on this itinerary are all located within walking distance. However, Toronto is a very accessible city with plenty of different public transportation options.

While we were here, we visited some sites that were a bit further from the city center via the city’s streetcars. The city also features a subway and bus system. This site has schedules and maps of everything you need to know about public transit in Toronto.

Where to Stay in Toronto

LUXURY: The St. Regis Toronto. With a spa, indoor pool, gym, and bar and restaurant on the 31st floor of the hotel, this is one of the top hotels in the city. Some rooms have spectacular views of the Toronto skyline.

UPSCALE: The Omni King Edward Hotel. Located in the city center, this hotel features massive rooms and suites that are beautifully decorated. It is within walking distance of the CN Tower, St. Lawrence Market, and some of Toronto’s best restaurants.

MID-RANGE: Sonder at the Liberty. This hotel has an excellent location in the city center. Rooms are modernly decorated and come with a kitchenette. Room types range from deluxe suites to one, two, and three-bedroom suites.

MID-RANGE: Stylish Downtown Toronto Residential Hotel. This is also located in the city center, a little farther away from the CN Tower and harbor than Sonder at the Liberty. This boutique property gets exceptional reviews. Rooms are spacious studio suites that come with a kitchen and washing machine.

BUDGET: The Rex Hotel Jazz & Blues Bar. With an excellent location, it’s possible to stay in the city center and not spend a lot of money. Rooms are basic and can accommodate between one and four people.

Tours of Toronto

Here are several highly rated tours of Toronto that can easily be added onto this itinerary, including sightseeing cruises and helicopter rides for fantastic views of the city.

If you have any questions about this Toronto Itinerary let us know in the comment section below.

More Information for Your Trip to Canada

NIAGARA FALLS: Niagara Falls is just a short drive from Toronto. Learn how to spend 48 hours in Niagara Falls.

NEW YORK CITY: Let us take the guesswork out of planning a trip to New York City with our 5 Days in New York City Itinerary. We also have a New York City Hotel Guide and an article that covers the top sights in New York City.

BOSTON: For information about Boston, read our article Best Things to Do in Boston. We also have a detailed guide on how to day trip to Plymouth, Lexington, and Concord from Boston.

MORE CITIES AROUND THE WORLD: Visit more cities around the world with our guides to Rome, Paris, New York City, London, Barcelona, and Athens.

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