One Day in Toronto: The Ultimate Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
Only have one day in Toronto? Don’t panic – I’ve got you. As a local who’s helped way too many confused friends and family members “just see the highlights,” I’ve created the ultimate 1 day Toronto itinerary to help you soak up the best of the city without the stress of planning.
Whether you’re in town for a quick stopover, a family outing, or finally checking Toronto off your bucket list, this jam-packed guide is designed to help first-time visitors make the most of every single minute.
Think iconic landmarks, delicious eats, and fun photo ops – all in a logical order that actually makes sense (because trust me, the Greater Toronto Area is massive and your Google Maps guesses won’t cut it).
From famous sights to local favourites, this itinerary works whether you’re flying solo, traveling with kids, or exploring with friends. And yes – there’s something for everyone.
Ready to explore Toronto like a local without the planning headache? Let’s dive into the perfect day.
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One Day in Toronto Itinerary
With just one day to explore Toronto, efficiency is key – and while driving or using public transportation (the TTC) are options, the Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus is hands-down the best way to see the city’s top sights without the stress of planning your route.
It stops at all the major attractions and lets you explore at your own pace – plus, it gives you a built-in city tour while you ride.
☞ Wondering if the Hop-on Hop-off bus is worth it? Read my complete and honest review of this Toronto tour. Ready to book? Buy your tickets HERE.
Ready to hit the ground running? Here’s how I recommend spending your one day in Toronto, starting with a truly local experience.
Overview: Day 1 in Toronto
- St. Lawrence Market
- Take the Toronto Sightseeing Hop on Hop off Bus ($)
- Little Canada ($)
- Casa Loma ($) or alternatively Art Gallery of Ontario or Royal Ontario Museum
- Kensington Market
- Nathan Phillips Square and the Toronto Sign
- CN Tower ($)
- Toronto Waterfront
- Distillery District
- Concert, Sporting Event, or Theatre
Stop 1: Breakfast at St. Lawrence Market
Time: ~30 minutes
Cost: Free to enter (food prices vary)
Open Year-Round | Closed Mondays
Start your day where locals actually shop: the historic St. Lawrence Market. It’s not just a tourist stop – it’s where Torontonians come for fresh produce, cured meats, handmade cheeses, and warm baked goods.
Fuel up with a locally roasted coffee and a snack, or go full-on foodie with a famous peameal bacon sandwich (Toronto’s unofficial breakfast). If you’re visiting on a Saturday, don’t miss the brand-new St. Lawrence Market North section – it reopened in April 2025 and hosts a vibrant Farmer’s Market worth browsing.
Once you’ve had your fill, you’re just steps from a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus stop – making it easy to start your sightseeing journey without backtracking.
Stop 2: Explore Little Canada
Time: ~1.5 hours
Cost: Tickets Required
Open Year-Round | Indoors
This might seem an unexpected pick, but trust me – Little Canada is way cooler than it sounds. I recently visited and was completely blown away by the level of detail and creativity packed into this downtown Toronto attraction.
Spanning 45,000 square feet (yep, about two hockey rinks), Little Canada features miniature versions of Canada’s most iconic cities and landscapes. There are six regions to explore, over 40,000 tiny figurines, more than 100,000 LED lights, and even 100+ moving scenes and animations – all part of a project that’s taken 600,000+ hours to build (and counting).
☞ Ready to go? Buy your tickets now to skip the lines and secure your tickets today.
It’s not just for kids. I went with my husband and we enjoyed every minute of our visit. It’s a truly uniquely Canadian attraction and so interesting! It’s a fantastic way to experience all of Canada when you only have one day in Toronto.
After your visit, take a moment to snap photos in nearby Sankofa Square (formerly Yonge-Dundas square), or do some quick shopping at the Eaton Centre just across the street.
☞ Still curious to learn more? Read my complete guide to Little Canada Toronto for all the details.
Stop 3: Step Back in Time at Casa Loma
Time: ~2 hours
Cost: Tickets Required
Open Year-Round | Accessible via TTC or Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
Ready to see a castle in the middle of a major city? Casa Loma is a historic mansion turned museum that gives major fairy tale vibes – think soaring towers, hidden passageways, and 98 elaborately decorated rooms that once made up the largest private home in Canada.
Built in 1914 by financier Henry Pellatt, Casa Loma still stuns with its Gothic architecture and secret tunnels. Head straight for the towers when you arrive – they offer one of the best skyline views in the city, but they do get crowded fast, so go early if you can. In the summer, the gardens are a peaceful (and very photogenic) bonus.
Note: Casa Loma isn’t in the downtown core, so you’ll need to hop on the TTC or the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus to get there.
Local tip: If you’re visiting Toronto around the winter holidays Casa Loma is decked out with lights, trees, and festive magic that makes it one of my favourite holiday spots in the city.
Want to skip the castle? If history isn’t your thing, or you’d rather stay central, swap this stop for a visit to the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) or the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO). Both are on the bus route in the downtown core and are great cultural options.
☞ Want to know more about this landmark? Read my complete guide to Casa Loma to help you decide if it’s worth a visit.
Stop 4: Wander Through Kensington Market
Time: ~1 hour
Cost: Free (unless you go wild vintage shopping!)
Open Year-Round | Best Enjoyed on Foot
Time to slow the pace and soak in one of Toronto’s most eclectic neighbourhoods. Kensington Market is the definition of quirky – think colourful murals, vintage stores, boho boutiques, antique finds, and an endless supply of globally inspired street food.
This is the kind of place where no two visits are the same. You might stumble on a street performance, find the perfect retro jacket, or discover your new favourite lunch spot tucked behind a corner grocer.
Pop into independent shops for one-of-a-kind souvenirs or thrift treasures.
Hungry? This is a great time to grab lunch – whether you’re craving tacos, empanadas, jerk chicken, or plant-based bites, Kensington’s got you covered.
Local tip: I love coming here just to stroll and people-watch – it’s always buzzing with artists, musicians, and characters you won’t find anywhere else in the city.
Stop 5: Snap a Pic at Nathan Phillips Square with the Toronto Sign
Time: ~30 minutes
Cost: Free
Open Year-Round | Skating in Winter
No one visits Toronto without getting that iconic shot in front of the glowing Toronto sign and Nathan Phillips Square is the place to do it. Located right in front of City Hall, this public plaza is one of the most photographed spots in the city.
For most of the year, this is a quick photo stop – snap your souvenir shot, take in the energy of downtown, and you’re off to your next adventure.
Visiting Toronto in winter? Stick around a little longer – the square transforms into a magical (and free) skating rink complete with lights, music, and serious holiday vibes. You can rent skates on-site and join the locals gliding around the iconic sign.
Local tip: The sign is especially striking at dusk or after dark when it’s lit up in bold colours – perfect for a blue hour Instagram moment.
☞ Looking for even more free skating options? Read my complete list of ice skating rinks in Toronto – an iconic Canadian winter experience in the city!
Stop 6: Head to the Top of the CN Tower
Time: ~1 hour
Cost: Tickets Required
Open Year-Round | Open Late Most Nights
If it’s your first time in Toronto, you can’t skip the CN Tower! It’s the most iconic part of our skyline and offers views you won’t forget anytime soon. Even as a local, I still get a thrill every time I ride that elevator (yes, your ears will pop!) and take in the sweeping 360-degree views of the city, the lake, and beyond.
There are a few ways to experience the tower:
- Main Observation Deck – Great views, a glass floor, and all the classics.
- The Top (SkyPod) – Want to go even higher? Take a second elevator to the SkyPod – one of the highest public observation platforms in the world.
- EdgeWalk – For the brave! Strap into a harness and walk outside the tower, 116 stories above the ground. Not for the faint of heart, but definitely a bucket-list moment.
Local tip: Try to go around sunset for golden-hour photos and watch the city light up as night falls – it’s a magical way to wrap up 24 hours in Toronto.
☞ Still deciding if the CN Tower is worth a visit? Read my complete guide for all you need to know about a visit to the iconic CN Tower.
Stop 7: Wind Down at Toronto’s Waterfront
Time: ~1 hour
Cost: Free
Open Year-Round | Optional Ferry or Boat Cruise Available
After a full day of exploring, the Toronto Waterfront is the ideal place to catch your breath, hang out on the beach, and soak in those lake views. This stretch along Lake Ontario offers a scenic walking route through parks, public art, beaches, and urban boardwalks.
Take a casual stroll past spots like Music Garden, H2O Beach, and the pastel-pink umbrellas at Sugar Beach – all Instagram-worthy and surprisingly peaceful for downtown.
Feeling up for a detour? You can hop on a Toronto Island ferry for a quick 20-minute ride across the harbor. Even if you don’t have time to explore the islands themselves, the ferry gives you a gorgeous (and inexpensive) skyline view from the water – a perfect last photo op.
Prefer a harbour cruise? There are plenty of boat tours departing from the waterfront – ranging from scenic skyline cruises to themed sunset sails, if you’re ending your day in style.
Cruise Recommendation: Looking for the best tour? I recommend this 1 hour harbour tour with a live narrator.
Stop 8: Dinner in the Distillery District
Time: ~1 hour (more if you’re lingering!)
Cost: Free to enter | Meals vary
Open Year-Round | Arrive by 4 p.m. in Winter for Free Holiday Market Entry
Wrap up your whirlwind day in Toronto with dinner in the historic Distillery District – one of the city’s most charming neighborhoods. Cobblestone streets, 19th-century brick buildings, art galleries, boutique shops, and twinkling string lights make this spot feel magical year-round.
Even though it’s a major attraction, it never feels touristy. Locals (myself included!) love coming here to walk, browse, and eat – especially during the holidays.
Winter Tip: If you’re visiting Toronto during the holidays, aim to arrive before 4 p.m. for free entry into the Toronto Christmas Market, one of the city’s most beloved seasonal events. Enjoy festive lights, mulled wine, live music, and artisan stalls before you settle in for dinner.
Here are a few of our go-to dinner spots in the Distillery District:
- El Catrin Destileria – Incredible Mexican food, including the best guacamole and churros in the city. Huge heated patio and unforgettable ambiance. Reservations strongly recommended.
- Pure Spirits Oyster House – Chill seafood spot with a killer lobster roll (my personal fave in Toronto) and a solid oyster lineup.
- Mill Street Brewpub – Lively pub with great beer, classic comfort food, and a relaxed vibe. It’s larger than other spots in the area, so it’s a good bet for last-minute seating.
Bonus: Catch a Game, Concert, or Show to End Your Night
Still have energy left after dinner? Toronto is a sports and entertainment hub, so there’s almost always something happening – from major league games to Broadway-worthy performances and big-name concerts.
Sports Fans, Rejoice
Toronto is home to teams in baseball, basketball, hockey, soccer, and lacrosse – and whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun night out, the atmosphere at live games is electric.
Visiting in spring or summer? Grab tickets to a Toronto Blue Jays game at the newly renovated Rogers Centre. With budget-friendly seats, entertainment zones, and family-friendly amenities, it’s a great way to soak in the local vibe.
Pro tip: If you’re catching a game or concert at Rogers Centre, splurge on the TD Clubhouse seats – they’re some of the best views in the venue.
Concert Lovers, You’re in Luck
Toronto is a regular stop on global tours – whether it’s Taylor Swift, Coldplay, Billy Joel, or legendary throwbacks like Oasis, you’ll find major acts performing at venues like Scotiabank Arena, Budweiser Stage, Rogers Centre, and Rogers Stadium.
☞ Attending a summer concert in Toronto? Visit my list of the best hotels near the Rogers Stadium to get a local’s advice on here to stay for this newest concert venue.
Broadway in the North
Prefer theatre over sports? Catch a performance of hit shows like Come From Away, Hamilton, Lion King, and more. Toronto’s theatre scene is top-notch, and if you’re flexible, you can often grab last-minute rush tickets online at amazing prices.
Where to Stay in Toronto (When You Only Have One Day)
If you only have one day to explore Toronto, you’ll want to stay right in the heart of the action and that means booking a spot in the downtown core. The closer you are to Union Station and the Entertainment District, the less time you’ll waste commuting (and the more you’ll see).
Fair warning: downtown hotels aren’t cheap – this is prime real estate, after all – but if you’re only staying one night, the convenience is absolutely worth the splurge.
Here are a few local-favourite hotels that are perfectly located and offer something for every type of traveler:
⭐️ Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto – A sleek, modern option within walking distance of the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, Union Station, and the Waterfront. Great for couples or business travelers who want a central base with modern perks.
⭐️ Fairmont Royal York – This iconic, historic hotel is a Canadian classic. Located right across from Union Station, it’s a luxurious (and very photogenic) choice for travelers who want upscale comfort with a side of heritage.
⭐️ Chelsea Hotel Toronto – If you’re visiting Toronto with kids, this is your unicorn. It’s got a family pool with a waterslide, dedicated kid and teen lounges, and a range of room sizes that work for families or groups.
☞ Want even more hotel options? Read my post about the best hotels in Toronto with a pool for a complete review of 17 excellent downtown hotels.
What to Skip on Your 1 Day Toronto Itinerary
Toronto is packed with amazing attractions – but if you’re only here for one day, some popular spots just don’t make the cut. These are all worth visiting on a longer trip, but for a quick visit, here’s what I recommend skipping:
Toronto Islands
The Islands are beautiful – beaches, trails, and picnic spots make them feel like an urban escape. But they take at least half a day to explore properly, between the ferry and walking around. Save this one for a return visit when you have more time to relax.
Toronto Zoo
The Toronto Zoo is massive and fantastic, but it’s located far from the city core. You’ll spend a full day between travel and visiting time. If you’re in town with kids for a few days, it’s worth adding – but not on a one-day itinerary.
Ripley’s Aquarium
Unless you’re traveling with young kids or have a serious love of sea life, the Aquarium can be skipped. It’s right next to the CN Tower, so it’s tempting – but it eats up time you’ll likely want to spend elsewhere.
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
The ROM is world-class – but if you’re already visiting Casa Loma or the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), you probably won’t have time for both. Choose one major museum or attraction for your day, and save the rest for next time.
Getting Around Toronto
Toronto’s a big city, but getting around for your one-day itinerary is pretty straightforward – as long as you plan ahead. Here’s a breakdown of the best transportation options to help you navigate like a local:
TTC (Toronto Transit Commission)
The TTC is your go-to for public transportation in the downtown core. It includes subways, streetcars, and buses, and you can transfer between all three on one fare. It’s reasonably priced, and if you’re sticking to city-center attractions, it’s an efficient way to get around.
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus
If you’re following this exact itinerary, the Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus is an excellent choice. It stops at all the major attractions listed here, gives you a guided city overview, and most importantly – someone else handles the traffic and parking for you. It’s a great combo of convenience and sightseeing.
☞ Only in Toronto for a quick visit? Make the most of every minute with this convenient hop-on hop-off tour that covers all the main attractions.
Driving
Can you drive in Toronto? Sure. Should you? Not really. Between unpredictable traffic and expensive, hard-to-find parking, it’s more stress than it’s worth – especially for a one-day visit.
Uber, Lyft, RideShare & Taxis
Both Uber and Lyft operate in Toronto, and taxis are widely available. They’re great for reaching locations not covered by the TTC, but watch out for surge pricing, especially during rush hours or events – it happens often here.
UP Express
Need to get to or from Toronto Pearson International Airport? The UP Express is the best way. It runs every 15 minutes, takes just 20 minutes from Union Station to the airport, and costs about $12 CAD one way. Fast, reliable, and no traffic stress.
Is One Day in Toronto, Canada Enough?
Honestly? One day in Toronto is just a taste – but it’s a delicious one.
You won’t be able to see everything in just 24 hours, but with the right plan (like this one!), you can experience some of the city’s most iconic spots, soak in the skyline, and enjoy the multicultural flavor that makes Toronto so unique.
Even as a local, I’m constantly discovering new places to eat, hidden gems, and cultural events – there’s always something happening here. And because we truly have four distinct seasons, each visit offers something new: cherry blossoms in spring, beach days in summer, fall colours in the parks, and cozy, festive lights in winter.
So, is one day enough? It’s enough to make you want to come back.
☞ Are you looking for a different Toronto Itinerary? Read my 3 Days in Toronto guide with additional must-visit spots.
Can You Visit Both Toronto and Niagara Falls in One Day?
Short answer? Not really.
While it’s technically possible to see both Toronto and Niagara Falls in one day, I wouldn’t recommend it – especially if you’re hoping to enjoy either place.
Niagara Falls is about 2 hours from Toronto (without traffic), which means you’d be spending at least 4 hours just driving. That leaves very little time to actually experience the Falls or the city. It’s a recipe for a rushed, stressful day.
If you only have one day to explore, I strongly suggest choosing either Toronto or Niagara Falls – not both. With more time, a 2- or 3-day trip is perfect for combining the two destinations without sacrificing the experience.
☞ Still interested in visiting Niagara Falls? Here is my number one recommended day tour from Toronto.
Final Thoughts on Spending One Day in Toronto
Whether you’re visiting for a quick stopover, a spontaneous city break, or your first-ever trip to Canada, one day in Toronto is just enough to fall in love with this dynamic, multicultural city. With the right plan (and comfy shoes), you can hit the highlights, discover local favourites, and maybe even squeeze in a skyline sunset.
Of course, there’s so much more to explore – and I hope this itinerary helps you feel like you made the most of your time here.
More Toronto Travel Tips
Looking for more information to help you plan your trip to Toronto? Here are some guides that will help.
