10 Days of Ontario by Rail: From Toronto to Ottawa and Beyond

Your adventure begins as you arrive in Toronto. Upon landing, take the UP Express train directly from the airport terminal, which will swiftly transport you to Union Station. From there, it is just a short walk or quick taxi journey to your hotel.

Enjoy a couple of days discovering Canada’s largest city. Begin with a visit to the CN Tower, where the panoramic views from the top make the elevator journey well worth it. For an elevated experience, consider dining in the 360-degree revolving restaurant. After taking in the breathtaking scenery, embark on a boat cruise around Toronto Harbour and the nearby islands, offering a spectacular perspective of the city’s skyline. Then you can immerse yourself in Canada’s sporting heritage at the Hockey Hall of Fame or indulge in a shopping excursion along Bloor Street, renowned for its high-end boutiques. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the Distillery District, a charming area filled with independent shops, galleries, and vibrant bars. Enjoy a drink before dining at one of the many exceptional restaurants in the area.

Prepare for a visit to one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders—Niagara Falls. An early morning departure will take you on a scenic 90-minute journey to the falls. Upon arrival, marvel at the breathtaking views and capture plenty of photographs. Then, embark on a boat tour to experience the falls up close—an unforgettable highlight of your trip. For lunch, dine at the Fallsview Restaurant, where you can savour a meal while admiring the magnificent scenery. Later, visit Niagara-on-the-Lake, often referred to as ‘Canada’s Prettiest Town’, where you can explore charming boutiques and perhaps enjoy a wine tasting experience.
 
Next you will leave Toronto and enjoy a Via Rail business class rail trip to Canada’s capital, Ottawa. The train journey takes just over four hours, offering comfortable seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, a meal with drinks, and picturesque views of Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. In Ottawa you can choose to stay at the charming Lord Elgin Hotel or, for a more indulgent stay, the grand Fairmont Château Laurier. Once settled, take the remainder of the day to explore the city's delightful downtown area.

Ottawa offers a wealth of attractions and you have plenty of time to explore as you wish. Options include a hop-on-hop-off bus tour, a guided cycling excursion, or a visit to the city’s renowned museums and galleries. Be sure to explore Ottawa’s picturesque riverside parks as well. Experience the city from the water by choosing between a tranquil electric boat tour along the UNESCO-listed Rideau Canal or a cruise along the Ottawa River, offering splendid views of Parliament Hill and the Prime Minister’s residence.

Board the VIA Rail train for a two-hour journey to Kingston, one of Canada’s oldest cities, founded in 1673. This historic destination boasts a fascinating past as a French trading post and is wonderfully pedestrian-friendly. Explore its hidden alleyways, where you will find antique markets, cosy cafes, and delightful restaurant terraces. Your accommodation will be the Delta Hotels by Marriott Kingston Waterfront, offering charming views of the lake.

After a relaxed breakfast, take time to explore more of Kingston before making your way to Crawford Dock for a scenic cruise around the Thousand Islands. As you glide past picturesque cottages and grand estates, you will be captivated by the region’s natural beauty. Later, for a touch of adventure, consider joining a ghost tour of Kingston’s historic old town - a thrilling way to end your stay in this enchanting city.

On your final day, enjoy breakfast before boarding the train for a relaxing ride back to Toronto and your flight home.