CN Tower
Iconic 553-metre communications and observation tower, once the world's tallest free-standing structure. Features glass floor observation deck, EdgeWalk, and 360 Restaurant.
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About Ontario
- Capital
- Toronto
- Largest city
- Toronto
- Population
- 15000000
- Languages
- English, French
- Currency
- CAD
Explore Ontario by topic
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
Best places to visit in Ontario
The 28 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Niagara Falls
Three spectacular waterfalls on the Niagara River at the US-Canada border. Horseshoe Falls is the most powerful waterfall in North America. Boat tours (Hornblower/Niagara City Cruises) take visitors to the mist.
Royal Ontario Museum
Canada's largest museum, featuring world cultures and natural history. Highlights include a vast dinosaur gallery, Egyptian mummies, and the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal addition.
Parliament Hill
Canada's seat of government on a dramatic bluff above the Ottawa River. Includes the Centre Block with the Peace Tower, East Block, and West Block. Daily Changing of the Guard ceremony in summer.
Algonquin Provincial Park
Ontario's oldest and most famous provincial park — 7,653 km² of lakes, forests, and rivers. World-renowned for moose sightings, canoe routes, wolf howls, and spectacular fall foliage.
Rideau Canal
UNESCO World Heritage Site — 202 km waterway connecting Ottawa to Kingston. In winter, the Ottawa section becomes the world's largest naturally frozen skating rink (7.8 km).
Recommended itineraries
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
5-Day Ontario Explorer
- Day 1Arrive in Ontario, explore city center
- Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
- Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
- Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
- Day 5Final sightseeing, departure
7-Day Classic Ontario
- Days 1-2Ontario city highlights
- Days 3-4Regional exploration
- Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
- Day 7Return and departure
14-Day Ultimate Ontario
- Days 1-3Ontario comprehensive city tour
- Days 4-6Northern region exploration
- Days 7-9Eastern highlights
- Days 10-12Southern attractions
- Days 13-14Return to Ontario, departure
Where to stay in Ontario
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Budget $50-100
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Mid-range $100-200
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Luxury $300+
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Fairmont Royal York
Toronto's grand dame hotel opened in 1929, directly across from Union Station. 1,363 rooms, multiple restaurants including REIGN and York Station, rooftop terrace, and legendary afternoon tea.
Check rates on Booking.comShangri-La Toronto
Sleek 65-floor tower in the Financial District featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, CHI Spa, BOSK restaurant with modern Canadian cuisine, and impeccable Asian-influenced service.
Check rates on Booking.comFour Seasons Hotel Toronto
Toronto's finest hotel in the upscale Yorkville neighbourhood. 259 rooms and suites, D|Bar lounge, Café Boulud restaurant by Daniel Boulud, and world-class spa.
Check rates on Booking.comFairmont Château Laurier
Ottawa's iconic castle-like hotel opened in 1912, steps from Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal. French château architecture with 429 rooms, grand swimming pool, and legendary Canadian hospitality.
Check rates on Booking.comWhere to eat in Ontario
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Canoe Restaurant & Bar
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower with sweeping Toronto skyline views. Chef John Horne's modern Canadian cuisine features exceptional Ontario ingredients.
Alo Restaurant
Canada's top-ranked restaurant for multiple years, offering a 7-course tasting menu of exquisite French-influenced Canadian cuisine. Intimate room with outstanding wine list.
Edulis
Tiny 30-seat restaurant with a weekly-changing menu built around foraged Ontario ingredients. One of Canada's most intimate fine dining experiences, with exceptional mushroom dishes.
St. Lawrence Market Food Hall
Toronto's beloved public market since 1803 with dozens of vendors selling peameal bacon sandwiches, cheese, baked goods, deli meats, and fresh produce. South Market open Tue–Sat.
Pai Northern Thai Kitchen
Toronto's best northern Thai restaurant, consistently packed with fans of authentic khao soi, pad see ew, and Thai street food favourites. Lively casual atmosphere.
Bar Isabel
Rustic Spanish tavern on College Street renowned for exceptional charcuterie, pintxos, and wood-fired dishes. Warm candlelit atmosphere and outstanding natural wine list.
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Getting around Ontario
Ontario has excellent transportation infrastructure. Toronto is Canada's busiest aviation hub, the province has extensive rail and bus networks, and major highways connect cities. Urban centres have good public transit.
Budget breakdown
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15-40 | $50-120 | $150+ |
| Food (per day) | $10-25 | $30-60 | $80+ |
| Transportation | $5-15 | $20-50 | $75+ |
| Activities | $5-15 | $20-50 | $75+ |
| Daily total | $50-100 | $100-200 | $300+ |
Best time to visit Ontario
Weather through the year in Canada
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Canada.
Essential travel tips
- Research visa requirements before your trip
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language
- Carry cash as cards may not be accepted everywhere
- Respect local customs and dress codes
- Purchase travel insurance before departure
Safety information
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Ontario?
The best time to visit Ontario is Year-round.
Do I need a visa to visit Ontario?
Inherited from Canada. Most visitors need eTA or visa. US citizens need valid passport. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
What currency is used in Ontario?
The currency in Ontario is the CAD. ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
What language is spoken in Ontario?
The main language(s) spoken in Ontario: English, French. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
What are the top attractions in Ontario?
The top attractions in Ontario include CN Tower, Niagara Falls, Royal Ontario Museum, Parliament Hill, and Algonquin Provincial Park. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.