As a former Type A traveler who planned itineraries down to the hour—leaving no room for spontaneous detours (we have tickets, no, we can’t stop there!)—I often returned home needing a vacation from my vacation. Eventually, enough was enough. Once you accept that you can never see, touch, or taste everything a city has to offer, no matter how long you stay, you start to travel differently. You come home feeling immersed, not exhausted. That’s the beauty of slower travel.
Leaving hours in your day to explore freely doesn’t mean you’ll be bored or sitting around (unless you want to). After three days in Toronto, I had walked 25.5 miles—proof that you can do a lot without overscheduling.
This slower-paced, 3-day Toronto experience is intentionally low-key, offering just one highlight per time of day. It’s designed to let you explore at your own pace, leave room for spontaneity, and actually enjoy your vacation. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back for more, this itinerary helps you uncover some of the city’s best offerings—without feeling like you need a vacation after your vacation.
Getting Around Toronto
Toronto’s public transit system, the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission), makes getting around the city incredibly easy—especially if you’re staying downtown. The TTC includes subways, streetcars, and buses. using the same fare system, one fare lets you transfer across different types of transit within a two-hour window.
Before arriving in Toronto, I’d read that purchasing a Presto card was the most convenient payment method for using public transit. However, the staff at The Drake Hotel explained that while that was an option, we could also simply tap a credit card or phone to pay for our fare.
Hot tip: We were on a bus when fare enforcement walked through (DC would NEVER), and we just tapped the credit card we used to pay our fare to their device and we were good. So yeah, pay your fare.
The subway is fast and clean, with four main lines. Streetcars, on the other hand, are fun and scenic, running above ground and stopping frequently through neighborhoods like Queen West, Spadina, and King Street.
A few tips:
- Download the CityMapper app to track arrival times and routes in real time. The accuracy is phenomenal.
- Plan around rush hour (7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m.) if you want a more relaxed ride.
- Streetcars are exact fare only— just tap and go.
Toronto’s public transportation is safe, affordable, and efficient way to explore the city. Truth be told, we definitely should have used it more, but sometimes exploring neighborhoods is fun too. C’est la vie, right? Wandering is half the fun.
Day 1: Get to Know Toronto
When I visit a new city, I love to hit the ground walking—literally. Day 1 is all about getting your bearings, soaking up Toronto’s vibe, and letting a local show you the ropes. With one planned experience and plenty of room to wander, this day affords you a solid intro without feeling rushed.
Morning: A Local-Led Toronto Experience to Get Your Bearings
My favorite way to explore a new city is to book a walking tour. I’ve enjoyed every Airbnb experience I’ve joined, so I chose to book the “Show Me the City” walking tour. The morning tour starts at 9 a.m., which fits perfectly with my way-too-darn-early flight into Toronto.
Eat a hearty breakfast because you’ll be putting in your steps on this three-hour walking tour. The tour goes through the city’s entertainment district and then heads off to the harbourfront (the city’s lakefront park). Head down into the air-conditioned PATH (Toronto’s underground city), through the financial district, with the tour ending at the St. Lawrence Market.
My favorite incidental stop on the tour was the Berczy Park Dog Fountain. I’m pretty sure it was just an on-the-way, off to your right is a fountain type of “stop,” but as a dog lover, this fountain was too stinking cute! Fun fact, thanks Dave, is that the cat, who appears to be quite aloof, is locked in on a bird, not giving two hoots about the dogs.
Alternate Tour Option: Native Canadian Centre of Toronto
If you’re looking for a deeper cultural dive or want to prioritize learning about the Indigenous roots of Toronto, this is a meaningful alternative to the above walking tour. This is a free tour exploring the deep Canadian Indigenous cultural roots of Tkaronto (Toronto), Ishpadinaa (Spadina Road) and the 60+ years history of the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto.
As part of the tour, you will visit the most extensive collection of Canadian Indigenous artwork in the city of Toronto, learn key phrases from the traditional languages that are used in the city, visit major local landmarks and historical events as well as discover the traditional ceremonies and sacred practices that take place.
You can book a tour for yourself or a small group of up to 10 people and a $2–$5 donation is requested.
This option offers a slower-paced, more reflective Toronto experience—perfect if you’re craving historical and cultural context over sightseeing highlights.
Afternoon: Shoot Your Shot (at the Hockey Hall of Fame)
If there’s anything more Canadian than poutine, it’s hockey. Skipping the Hockey Hall of Fame while in Toronto? That’s a five-minute major in bad trip planning.
The crown jewel? The Great Hall—where you’ll find the NHL’s most iconic trophies on full display: the Hart, the Conn Smythe, the Art Ross… and of course, the real celebrity, Lord Stanley’s Cup.
Yes, the Stanley Cup. You might have to wait in line for a photo op, but don’t worry—you’re surrounded by legendary faces and fun facts to keep you entertained. It’s basically a very cool, very Canadian yearbook.
There’s something for everyone: pop culture fans can scope out artifacts from The Mighty Ducks, while hockey diehards can nerd out over the wall of colorful goalie masks or step inside a to-scale replica of the Montreal Canadiens’ locker room from the iconic Montreal Forum.
Ready to test your own skills? Swing by the NHLPA Game Time zone where you can shoot pucks at virtual goalies, block shots as a goalie yourself (no pressure), or step into the broadcast booth and call the play-by-play like a total pro. No ice required.
Even if you’re not a diehard hockey fan, it’s surprisingly easy to spend a couple of hours exploring all the interactive experiences. If you’re short on time or just want to high-five Lord Stanley and go, you can see the highlights in under an hour. But really—lean in, have fun, and keep your elbows up.
Evening: Dine at Sunset in the CN Tower
With so many restaurants to choose from in Toronto, recommending the 360 Restaurant at the CN Tower may seem sacrilegious. But you can’t miss the views and the fresh, sustainable, and regional cuisine from all across Canada.
Best time of day for dinner reservations would be sunset. But sunset reservation slots book out in advance. As soon as you know you’ll be in Toronto, research sunset times and make a dinner reservation.
Restaurant reservations come with complimentary admission to the main observation level of the tower. With the tower being open til 9:30 p.m., even a later dinner time allows for tower exploration afterwards.
Day 2: Art, Appetite, and a Laid-Back Toronto Experience
After a full first day, it’s time to enjoy Toronto at a more relaxed pace. Day 2 is about feeding your eyes and your stomach while leaving plenty of room to roam.
Morning: Nerd Out at a Museum
If you love puttering around museums, you have many options to choose from in Toronto. Museums are generally not my jam unless it’s too hot or pouring rain (I’d rather be outdoors on vacation), but here is a curated list of options that explore a colorful side of Toronto.
- Royal Ontario Museum – Dinosaurs, Egyptian artifacts, and Indigenous art all under one roof.
- Museum of Contemporary Art – Compact, thought-provoking, and a short stroll from hip coffee shops.
- Casa Loma – A Gothic Revival mansion with secret passages and city views.
- Bata Shoe Museum – Imelda Marcos’ shoe closet on steroids
- Art Gallery of Ontario – Frank Gehry–designed and full of bold Canadian and global art.
Whether you’re into shoes, castles, or contemporary installations, there’s a museum for every curiosity level—and most are walkable or a short streetcar ride away.
Midday: Feed Me Toronto
After admiring the unique and colorful art in the morning, it’s time to explore Toronto’s distinctive food scene.
Quick Tip: Consider your eating habits. Not all food tours allow for food substitutions. Something else to consider? If you’re a picky eater, find a tour that is cheaper, allowing you to pay for each item along the trip. A food tour in Dublin had this option and I wish more food tours offered this choice.
Airbnb Experiences has a handful of local-led food tours, ranging from neighborhood-specific bites to niche themes (yes, there’s one dedicated entirely to donuts 🍩). Whether you want to explore Kensington Market’s multicultural eats or sample modern Canadian cuisine in the Financial District, there’s a tour to match your mood.
Most tours last about 2 to 2.5 hours and include several tasting stops. You’ll leave comfortably full—but not in need of a nap. It’s also a fun way to get insider recommendations from locals—many guides offer tips you won’t find in any blog post or travel guide.
Not sure where to start? Look for tours that highlight:
- Multicultural street food in Kensington Market
- Trendy bites + cocktails in Queen West
- Classic Canadian comfort food (hello, poutine and butter tarts)
Food tours are a great, slower travel option—structured but flexible, and a delicious way to savor your Toronto experience bite by bite.
Late Afternoon/Evening: Roncesvalles + High Park Wandering
After a busy day of culture and cuisine, it’s time to slow the pace and wander like a local. After eating your way thru local delicacies, spend the afternoon exploring Roncesvalles Village, a cozy, creative neighborhood just west of downtown and right near High Park—Toronto’s largest green space.
Here’s how to spend your evening:
- Browse indie boutiques and bookstores – think slow fashion, artisan homewares, and vintage gems.
- Walk and smell the flowers in High Park. In spring, cherry blossoms; in summer, shady trails; in fall, golden leaves; in winter, pure peace.
- Grab dinner at Barque Smokehouse or The Commoner, two local favorites.
- Optional dessert: Ed’s Real Scoop or Oma’s German Bakery.
It’s the kind of evening that makes you feel like you live here, not just visiting. You’re full, a little sun-kissed, and dangerously close to Zillow surfing. (PS: I 100% searched houses with “For Sale” signs while wandering the streets. Living near DC, I thought I knew expensive—but wowie. Guess I won’t be packing my bags for Toronto anytime soon.)
Day 3: Choose Your Own Toronto Adventure
If you’ve had your fill of Toronto’s urban charm, today’s your chance to chase waterfalls (what does TLC know anyhow?). Niagara Falls is just a 1.5-hour drive away—and yes, it’s loud, it’s misty, it’s got major main-character energy—and honestly, it lives up to the hype.
But if the city still has you in its grip (Toronto does that), stay local and savor your last day. Kick things off with a brunch you’ll be texting your friends about mid-bite. Then hop a ferry to the islands for skyline views, and wrap up the evening with indie boutiques and street art in Queen West.
Big splash or slow stroll—you choose your finale.
Road Trip – See Niagara Falls from the Canadian Side
If museums aren’t calling your name and the weather’s good, join a tour or rent a car and hit the road: Niagara Falls is only a 1.5-hour drive from downtown Toronto.
Yes, it’s touristy. But it’s also jaw-dropping—especially from the Canadian side. The sheer force of the water is mesmerizing, and if you’ve never been, it’s absolutely worth the day trip.
A few tips:
- Arrive early if you’re going in peak season—parking fills up fast.
- Skip the overpriced attractions unless you really want the full “tourist” experience. The view alone is the main event.
- Don’t forget your passport if you’re tempted to cross to the U.S. side (but spoiler: Canada has the better views).
On the way back, stop at a winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake for a glass of ice wine or a late lunch. It’s a sweet ending to your last day—and a contrast to the roar of the falls.
Morning: Start with a Scene: Brunch at The Drake Hotel
Whether it’s Drag Brunch Saturdays or All Vinyl Sundays, mornings at The Drake Hotel aren’t your average eggs-and-toast affair—they’re a Toronto experience in themselves.
Drag Brunch Saturdays are wildly popular for a reason: it’s not just breakfast, it’s a party. Expect high-energy performances from some of Toronto’s most beloved queens, paired with a cheeky cocktail menu and elevated comfort food (think buttermilk pancakes, spicy fried chicken, and mimosas with flair). It’s colorful, campy, and full of joy—perfect for kicking off your final day with some sparkle.
All Vinyl Sundays offer a totally different (but equally fun) vibe. It’s all about laid-back cool. DJs spin strictly vinyl, creating a nostalgic soundtrack of funk, soul, and jazz while you sip espresso or a morning spritz. The crowd leans stylish-but-chill, and the food? Consistently delicious. It’s the kind of brunch that makes you feel like you accidentally stumbled into a neighborhood gem—except everyone knows about it.
Both require reservations (trust me, they book up fast), but it’s well worth the planning. Whether you’re there for the glamour or the grooves, brunch at The Drake is more than just a meal—it’s a whole mood.
Late Morning: Touch Grass
If you flew into Billy Bishop Airport, you might have noticed several islands surrounding the airport. If the weather’s in your favor, catch a ferry to Centre Island for a peaceful walk, skyline views, and a bit of nature without leaving the city.
During peak season, food on the island can be pricey and the lines long. Our guide from the city tour, Dave, recommended taking a picnic or grabbing food at the Harbourfront before visiting. If you’re after an easygoing Toronto experience that’s heavy on views and light on schedule, this one’s for you.
Afternoon: Tie It in A Bow in Queen West
If you want your last day to feel effortlessly cool, Queen West is calling. This neighborhood is where Toronto’s indie spirit lives—vintage shops, colorful murals, hole-in-the-wall bakeries, and stylish locals walking their equally stylish dogs.
Start by exploring the art in Graffiti Alley, then wander west. Dip into spots like:
- Crywolf for quirky Toronto-made tees and pins
- Type Books for a slow browse and great staff picks
- Coal Miner’s Daughter for Canadian-made fashion
- The Paper Place for stationery nerd joy
- Left on Friday for swimwear and activewear
I can not recommend The Paper Place enough if you have an affinity for paper goods. I used to make jewelry with Japanese handmade chiyogami papers. The Paper Place had so many more options than any store, local or stateside, that I found.
Pick up a snack at Nadège Patisserie (their macarons are tiny joy bombs), go savory with a sandwich at Sud Forno, or let the moon hit your eye at Pizzeria Badiali. If you’re in the mood to park it and people-watch, Trinity Bellwoods Park is your go-to green space.
Bonus stop: If you still have room in your camera roll and stomach, head to Bang Bang Ice Cream—a cult-favorite spot serving scoops in Hong Kong-style waffles or cookies. Expect a line. It’s worth it. Also, a delicious option, Craig’s Cookies.
This route is perfect for travelers who want to end their trip like locals do: slowly, colorfully, and with something sweet in hand.
Final Thoughts
Whether you came for culture, color, or just really good coffee, three days in Toronto is more than enough to fall under the city’s spell. Maybe you started your trip with a walking tour and ended it sipping mimosas at drag brunch. Maybe you posed in Graffiti Alley, devoured a donut tour, got misted at Niagara Falls, or bought just one (okay, five) notebooks from The Paper Place.
That’s the beauty of this kind of travel. You didn’t just tick off sights—you felt the city, one slow-paced experience at a time. Wandered, and tasted, and paused. You didn’t try to do it all—and that’s exactly why it worked.
So here’s to your Toronto experience: unhurried, colorful, a little spontaneous, and entirely your own. Until next time, keep your curiosity going—and maybe keep that ice cream cone in hand.
