Our Picks For The 15 Best Tours & Things To Do In Toronto

Toronto is a city that offers a surprising variety of tours and activities, whether you’re after natural wonders, cultural experiences, or foodie adventures. Its proximity to Niagara Falls makes it ideal for memorable day trips, while the city itself is full of history, vibrant neighborhoods, and waterfront attractions.

We’re particularly fond of the From Toronto: Niagara Falls Tour + Boat Ride and/or Journey for its flexibility and insider access, and the Toronto: Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada Entry Ticket for families wanting a fun, educational outing.

Whatever your interest, Toronto’s diverse options mean you’ll find something that turns your visit from good to unforgettable.

Quick Overview

This list covers a wide range of experiences: scenic day trips to Niagara Falls, intimate small-group tours, cultural explorations with food tastings, and family-friendly attractions. Highlights include everything from Niagara Falls boat cruises and guided city walks to historic castle visits and miniature Canada exhibits.

Each tour offers something unique, whether it’s the personalized attention of a small-group tour or the immersive storytelling of a food walk. Now, let’s dive into the details.

1. From Toronto: Niagara Falls Tour + Boat Ride and/or Journey

This tour is a fantastic way to experience Niagara Falls in a single day, especially if you want the flexibility to upgrade your experience. For $55 per person, you get a full 10-hour trip with easy pick-up from 12 Toronto locations. The highlight is the optional skip-the-line boat cruise (Hornblower) and Journey Behind the Falls tickets, which truly put you in the action.

Expect 3-4 hours of free time to explore the waterfalls, snap photos, enjoy lunch, and shop. The tour guide shares local legends and history, making this more than just a bus ride.

What makes this tour stand out is its convenience and the chance to see Niagara’s hidden gems, like the Floral Clock and Niagara Whirlpool, plus the chance to taste three types of maple syrup at the falls. Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with options to customize.

Bottom line: A well-rounded, affordable day trip with the flexibility to add on iconic attractions and local treats.

2. Toronto: Niagara Falls Day Tour with Optional Boat Cruise

For just $57, this slightly shorter 9-hour tour offers plenty of Niagara Falls excitement, from feeling the roar of the cascade to visiting the Skylon Tower. The tour includes air-conditioned comfort from Toronto and a lively commentary from a knowledgeable guide.

You’ll drive along the Niagara River, with stops at the Floral Clock and other monuments, then enjoy about three hours of free time to experience the falls and Clifton Hill.

The optional Hornblower Cruise is a must-do for many travelers, giving you a close-up view of the falls from the boat. Guests rave about the insights shared during the tour, emphasizing how much more memorable this trip is with a guide to explain the area’s stories and landmarks.

Bottom line: Great value for a full Niagara experience, especially if you want the option to get close to the falls on the boat cruise.

3. Fall for Niagara Tour

This small-group tour is a favorite for its personalized experience and intimate size—max 40 people. At $66.18, it offers a detailed look at Niagara Falls from multiple viewpoints, including stops at the Whirlpool Rapids and Sir Adam Beck Generating Station. The tour includes scenic drives along the Niagara Parkway and plenty of photo opportunities.

Reviews highlight the professionalism of guides like Micko and Mel, who combine humor with expert storytelling. One guest noted, “He had amazing insight of local history, geography, advice on what to do, and recommendations,” making this ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, informative day without the hassle of self-driving.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a small-group, personalized tour that covers the best viewpoints and local sights.

4. Toronto: Casa Loma Entry Ticket

At $29, this entry ticket unlocks the grand Casa Loma, Toronto’s historic castle and a must-see for history and architecture lovers. You can explore the elaborate rooms, the Scottish Tower, and the memorabilia collections, including the wax gallery and antique car display.

The onsite documentary about Sir Henry Pellatt adds context, and the “Dark Side of Toronto” exhibit offers a glimpse into the city’s darker history.

Guests appreciate the opportunity to wander at their own pace, soaking in the regal ambiance or imagining life in a bygone era. The ticket is a good value for an immersive experience that combines history, architecture, and a bit of mystery.

Bottom line: A great stop for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts wanting a self-guided tour of one of Toronto’s most iconic landmarks.

5. Toronto: Harbor and Islands Sightseeing Cruise

For just $27, this hour-long cruise is a relaxing way to enjoy Toronto’s skyline and the Toronto Islands. The live narration offers insights into the harbor’s history and the area’s development, all while you take in stunning views of the city’s downtown core. It’s perfect for a quick escape from the hustle, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the waterfront’s beauty.

Guests often comment on how this cruise enhances their understanding of Toronto’s waterfront and makes for a memorable, low-cost outing. It’s especially suitable for travelers with limited time but a desire to see the city from a different perspective.

Bottom line: An affordable, scenic addition to your Toronto itinerary, especially if you enjoy boat rides and city views.

6. Toronto’s #1 International Food Tour

At $95.67, this 2.5-hour food tour takes you through Toronto’s famously multicultural Kensington Market. The tour includes tastings from at least six international cuisines, from Tibetan momos to Jamaican patties, providing a hearty lunch-like experience. Guests rave about the guide, Mel, for her knowledge and humor.

This tour is ideal for food lovers who want to explore Toronto’s diverse culinary scene without the hassle of planning. You’ll learn about the neighborhood’s history and community through its food and architecture, making it a rich cultural experience as well.

Bottom line: Perfect for foodies wanting a personal, flavorful introduction to Toronto’s multiculturalism.

7. Toronto: Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada Entry Ticket

This family-friendly attraction, costing $33, features 20,000 aquatic animals across nine galleries. Visitors love the underwater tunnel where sharks swim overhead, and touch exhibits that make the marine world come alive. The aquarium is open daily, offering flexibility for your day.

The skip-the-line ticket makes this a stress-free visit, especially if you want to avoid busy summer crowds. It’s perfect for kids or anyone fascinated by marine life, providing an educational yet entertaining experience.

Bottom line: A popular attraction for families and marine enthusiasts seeking an interactive, immersive experience.

8. Toronto: Niagara Falls Guided Day Tour, Boat & Skylon Tower

This guided tour at $57 covers all the Niagara highlights with the added perk of optional skip-the-line attractions like the Skylon Tower and Journey Behind the Falls. It’s a full 9-hour experience with stops at the Whirlpool and Queenston Heights, and it includes a maple syrup tasting.

Guests praise the efficient, friendly service and the ability to customize with attractions. The guide’s commentary makes the experience richer, and the transportation in comfort ensures you arrive refreshed.

Bottom line: A solid choice for travelers who want a guided, comprehensive Niagara experience with flexibility.

9. Toronto: St. Lawrence Market Food Tour with 6 Food Tastings

For $70.81, this 3-hour food tour takes you through Toronto’s historic St. Lawrence Market and the Distillery District. You’ll sample everything from maple-glazed salmon to butter chicken rotis, enjoying enough food for a hearty lunch. Your guide shares insights into Toronto’s culinary evolution, highlighting the city’s multicultural influences.

Guests appreciate the depth of flavor and the authentic local experiences, with many describing it as a highlight of their trip. The combination of history, food, and local stories makes this a practical yet delicious way to explore Toronto.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for food lovers who want an engaging, well-rounded culinary tour.

10. Show me the City! A Small Group Walking Tour of Toronto

At just $38.56, this 3-hour walking tour offers a comfortable way to see Toronto’s top sights, from the Entertainment District to the CN Tower and Harbourfront. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the guide points out hidden corners and stories that larger tours overlook.

Guests mention the energetic guide and the breadth of the experience, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time. It’s perfect for getting an authentic feel of Toronto in a manageable walking session.

Bottom line: A practical, personal introduction to Toronto’s most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks.

11. Toronto: Niagara Falls, Boat Ride & Journey Behind the Falls

This tour is a comprehensive 9-hour experience at $117, combining skip-the-line boat cruise and Journey Behind the Falls experience. It includes pick-up from multiple downtown locations and a detailed commentary. You’ll visit the Floral Clock and Niagara Whirlpool, with plenty of time to explore.

Guests love how smoothly the logistics run and the added value of combining two major attractions with guided insights. It’s suited for travelers who want to maximize their Niagara Falls visit with minimal hassle.

Bottom line: Excellent for those who want an all-in-one, guided Niagara Falls day trip with premium attractions.

12. Toronto: Falls Day Tour with Boat Cruise & Niagara-the-Lake

This 8-hour tour at $71 includes the best scenic views of Niagara Falls plus a boat cruise upgrade to get close to the cascade. The tour departs Toronto with a local guide, offering insights and plenty of free time to explore. It emphasizes speed and fun, returning before 5 pm.

Reviewers highlight the fast-paced itinerary and the chance to experience Niagara from many angles. It’s ideal if you want a quick but comprehensive visit that combines sightseeing with some leisure.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a short, lively day trip with a boat tour option.

13. Toronto’s First Food Tour: Taste the World in Kensington Market

This 2.5-hour food adventure at $73.42 takes you into Kensington Market, a lively, multicultural neighborhood. You’ll sample foods like poutine and Swedish gingerbread, enjoying a true taste of Toronto’s diversity. Led by a guide with local insight, you’ll visit vendors and learn about the neighborhood’s immigrant roots.

Guests love the personal touch and the chance to try authentic, high-quality dishes. It’s a delicious way to understand Toronto’s cultural makeup with plenty of bites packed into a short tour.

Bottom line: A must for food explorers wanting a fun, intimate glimpse into one of Toronto’s most colorful districts.

14. Admission Ticket: Explore Canada in Miniature Scale

For $33.52, Little Canada offers a detailed miniature tour of Canadian landscapes and landmarks. It features models of Niagara Falls, Parliament Hill, and more, with animated scenes and lights. Kids and adults alike find the models delightful, especially with options to create a 3-D miniature of yourself.

Reviews highlight the attention to detail and the whimsy of the exhibit, making it an engaging stop for families or architecture fans. The exhibit is a quick yet charming way to see Canada’s iconic sights in miniature form.

Bottom line: An entertaining, family-friendly attraction that offers a fresh perspective on Canada’s landmarks.

15. Toronto: Niagara Falls Tour with Cruise and Behind The Falls

This 1-day tour at $119 combines a cruise into the falls and a descent to Journey Behind the Falls. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full Niagara experience with skip-the-line access to the most popular attractions. The tour includes scenic views, photo stops, and a comfortable coach ride.

Many reviews mention the unforgettable experiences of feeling the mist and walking behind the waterfall, making this a top choice for those wanting a comprehensive, guided adventure.

Bottom line: Great for travelers seeking a complete Niagara adventure packed into one day.

How to Choose Your Perfect Tour

When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, how much time you have, and your specific interests. If you want a full-day adventure with premium attractions, the Niagara Falls Tour + Boat Ride and/or Journey (see details) offers excellent value. For a family-friendly activity, the Ripley’s Aquarium (see details) is perfect.

Those interested in food and culture should try the Kensington Market Food Tour (see details) or the St. Lawrence Market food experience (see details). For city orientation, the Show me the City walking tour (see details) offers a quick, lively overview.

Book early, especially for popular attractions like the Casa Loma or Niagara Falls tours, to secure your preferred times and avoid disappointment.

Final Thoughts

Toronto’s tour scene is as diverse as the city itself. Whether you want to marvel at Niagara Falls, explore the city’s neighborhoods, or indulge in its culinary delights, there’s an experience to match your interests and schedule.

For a classic highlight, the Niagara Falls day trips are hard to beat, especially with options to include boat rides and behind-the-falls adventures. Meanwhile, exploring Toronto through its history, food, or waterfront keeps the city lively and engaging.

If you’re planning your trip, consider your priorities—budget, time, and what you most want to experience. Many tours offer flexible options and small-group sizes, making your visit both enjoyable and memorable. Just remember to book early, as these popular experiences fill up quickly during peak season.

Whatever you choose, Toronto has plenty to offer, and these tours are a great way to see the city’s best highlights efficiently and comfortably.