Are you planning to visit Toronto for the first time but not sure where to start? You’re in the right place! Thanks to my local friend, Amber, who not only provided great suggestions but also took me around Toronto for a day and helped me learn more about the city, I’ve put together an itinerary that strikes the perfect balance between visiting popular tourist attractions, trying delicious street food, and discovering hidden gems around the city.
From the vibrant, bohemian vibes of Kensington Market to an epic day trip to Niagara Falls, here’s a complete itinerary for exploring Toronto! Let’s first take a look at the itinerary map to see where this travel guide will take you, shall we?
- 10-Day Canada Backpacking Itinerary Map
- 10-Day Canada Backpacking Itinerary
- When to Visit Canada?
- How to Get to Canada?
- How to Get From Toronto's Airport to Downtown?
- How to Around Canada?
- How Much Money Do I Need for 10 Days in Canada?
- Is it Safe in Canada?
- Which tourist SIM card is best for the Canada?
- What to Pack for Canada?
- Further Reading for Canada
10-Day Canada Backpacking Itinerary Map
| ☀️ Day 1-2: | Toronto |
| ☀️ Day 3: | A Day Trip to Niagara Falls |
| ☀️ Day 4-6: | Montreal |
| ☀️ Day 7-9: | Quebec City |
10-Day Canada Backpacking Itinerary
Day 1-2: Toronto (3 Nights)
This itinerary begins in Toronto's Old Town, and there is no better way to begin the journey than at the Distillery Historic District, a vibrant historic area that was once the largest distillery in the British Empire when it was established in the 19th century as the Gooderham and Worts Distillery.
You can find many lovely cafes here where you can quickly grab a cup of coffee before beginning your day like Balzac's Distillery District and more while being surrounded by a historical distillery, which is quite an experience. Toronto has a lot of these themed and quirky districts like this, all with their own charm across the city, and we are going to visit other ones the next day. Today, we are going to focus on the Old Town and the Harbourfront area.
You can spend the entire morning at the Distillery District and then you can take the bus to St. Lawrence Market for lunch. St. Lawrence Market is a vibrant public market that has been serving the community since 1803. It is considered one of the world's great markets, and I completely agree. The number of food stalls you can find here, all at a competitive price point, is mind-boggling!
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Inside, you'll find yourself in a massive market hall filled with countless street food stalls to choose from. From delicious bagels to lobster rolls, you name it, you can find it all here. There are also fresh fruit and meat stalls, desserts and sweets, and even shops selling kitchenware. You could easily spend hours here without getting bored.
If you've been dying to try a lobster roll but found the price a bit out of reach, you're in luck! I discovered a lovely seafood stall here called Buster's Sea Cove, where they serve fresh lobster rolls for only 22 CAD (or 15 USD). While it may seem pricey, I remember paying over 25 USD for a lobster roll in the US, so this is definitely a steal!
After you are done at lunch, you can walk to Harbour Square Park, a beautiful spot with benches and a quiet wooden boardwalk, and begin your exploration of another lovely district of Harbourfront.
Toronto really knows how to create beautiful parks, and it's never more apparent than here, which is one of my favorite places for a morning stroll. At the Harbourfront, you'll find rows of parks along the pier, all connected by a waterfront walkway, making it a fantastic place to explore on foot.
You can start at Harbour Square Park and walk all the way to Toronto Music Garden, another one of my favorite parks, featuring crisscrossing paths, beautiful large trees, and often hosting random seasonal events. Of course, don't forget to enjoy the view of the river on the other side as you stroll along the boardwalk.
Spend some time exploring the Harbourfront area until evening, and then head up to the CN Tower, one of the best spots in Toronto to catch the sunset. Standing at an impressive 553.3 meters (1,815.5 feet), the CN Tower was once the world's tallest freestanding structure and tower. From its observation deck, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Toronto cityscape, stretching all the way to Lake Ontario. It doesn’t get much better than this!
To visit the CN Tower, you'll need to purchase a ticket and reserve a time slot in advance, which you can do here. There are several ticket options available, with the most affordable being the general admission ticket, priced at around 45 CAD. Tickets can go up to 95 CAD depending on the type of tickets you want, but for most people, the general admission ticket should be more than enough.
Once you get to the base of the tower, you will have to go through a security screening, which can take some time before you can take the elevator up. So if you want to be there at sunset, be sure to book a time slot that is about an hour in advance just in case of the long security line.
After your visit to the CN Tower, head down and walk to King Street to find a spot for dinner. King Street West is lined with a variety of restaurants, so take your time to explore and pick one that suits your taste. If you’re up for it, you can also check out the bars along the street and enjoy the lively nightlife. If not, you can call it a night and rest up for another action-packed day ahead.
On our second day, we’ll be visiting some of Toronto’s farther-flung attractions and checking out a few of the coolest and trendiest neighborhoods the city is known for. We’ll kick off the day with a visit to Casa Loma, North America’s only castle! While calling it a castle might be a bit of a stretch, it’s actually a mansion built by a wealthy Canadian financier in the early 20th century, you have to admit he did an incredible job recreating the European castle vibe.
The moment you step inside, you are greeted by a stunning balcony with a view of the European-style garden, offering a breathtaking overlook of Toronto's skyline. For me, just this view alone made the trip out here completely worth it.
Some of my favorite rooms are the Conservatory, a beautiful sunlit room with plants and stunning decor, the Library full of wooden bookshelves showcasing Sir Henry Pellatt's extensive collection, and best of all, the bathroom.
Yup, you heard that right! The bathroom was definitely one of the highlights for me, as it gave me a glimpse into how the elites outfitted their bathrooms with some of the most advanced technology of the time. In his bathroom, you’ll find a nickel-plated shower, a needle bath with bidet sprays, hot water, and a waterfall shower, features that were cutting-edge, especially during an era when most households didn’t even have an indoor bathroom.
You can also climb up to one of the towers for an even better view of Toronto's skyline. Access to the towers is via the third floor, where you'll find a staircase leading to the attic, from which you can reach both towers. Be sure to keep an eye out for these staircases, as well as the hidden passages around the house that were often used by the maids to move about unnoticed.
Last but not least, you also gotta check out the basement tunnels, where a fire broke out in 1924 and caused massive damage to the estate. It also led to the city being proactive when it comes to fire safety. I was there during Halloween and they retrofitted the tunnels with some of the most creative scary decorations ever. It was so much fun!
After Casa Loma, you can make your way down to Royal Ontario Museum and explore its vast art and artifacts collection. As Canada's largest museum, you will find a wide variety of exhibitions covering topics ranging from art and culture to natural history and more here. With over 13 million objects, the ROM provides a comprehensive exploration of human history and the natural world that you won't find anywhere else.
Right from the start, you’ll be met with one of the most unique museum designs you’ll ever see. The museum is housed in an incredible building that blends historic and contemporary architecture in such a distinctive way that it has become a tourist attraction in and of itself. The original building, constructed in the early 20th century, was expanded in 2007 with the addition of a super-modern design resembling a crystal. I’ve never seen such a beautiful and unique blend of old and new as I have in the exterior of this museum.
Inside, you’ll find a massive art collection from around the world, including Chinese sculptures, Japanese samurai swords, and Arabic scripts. It also features Greek antiquities, colonial-era art, and pieces representing Canada’s First Nations peoples, all displayed throughout its vast hallways.
After you are done at the museum, you can take the Philosopher's Walk, which is a lovely walking path located within the University of Toronto's St. George campus, and make your way to University of Toronto and its Front Campus Park, a historic and beautiful park located in the heart of the St. George campus, surrounded by some of the most stunning historical architecture in the city.
Here, you’ll be surrounded by an open-air grassy area with the beautiful University College building, which was built in the 19th century in a stunning blend of Richardsonian Romanesque and Norman architectural styles, as a centerpiece. You can spend a few hours relaxing in the sun here, or we can continue on to Kensington Market, where we can stop for a late lunch.
Kensington Market is another one of my favorite neighborhoods in Toronto. Kensington is a walkable bohemian area that attracts artists and tourists with its rows of indie shops, vintage boutiques, colorful art spaces, as well as hipster cafes, bakeries, and restaurants. The place has such a unique vibe that it feels like its own little city.
The crowd here is also much different from other neighborhoods, with hipsters, artists, and young creatives roaming around in search of the next big trend or a one-of-a-kind vintage item. The entire area is filled with houses painted in vibrant colors, giving it a punk vibe that's a stark contrast to the posh houses found in other parts of Toronto.
Here, you’ll find plenty of restaurants and cafés where you can enjoy lunch, or you can take a leisurely stroll through one of the many flea markets selling all kinds of artsy souvenirs and vintage items. I absolutely love this area. The moment you walk in, you can really feel the creative energy that radiates from the people here, it’s a breath of fresh air!
Hang out in Kensington for a few hours before you head over to Ossington, one of the newest and hippest neighborhoods that the locals like to hang out in. Again, a huge shout out to my friend Amber, who took me to Ossington and let me experience the local side of the city!
If neighborhoods in Toronto were people, Kensington would be the person in their punk phase, whereas Ossington is the more young adult traveler type with optimism, creativity, and a hunger for the world. In Ossington, you will find a variety of diverse food scenes with a range of eateries from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
If you're looking for a great spot for dinner in Ossington, my friend recommended checking out Union, a Canadian-French bistro that's a favorite among brunch-goers, or Mamakas Taverna, a fantastic bistro offering Greek dishes like Moussaka and Lamb Shakshuka with a unique twist. We tried both, but Union was full, so we ended up at Mamakas Taverna, and it was amazing! After dinner, you can unwind for the night and get ready for an epic day trip to Niagara Falls the next day!
Day 3: A Day Trip to Niagara Falls
One of the highlights of visiting Canada is seeing the epic Niagara Falls with your own eyes, and that is exactly what we are going to do on our third day in Toronto. For those unfamiliar, Niagara Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder located along the border between Ontario, Canada, and New York, USA. It comprises three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls, each a stunning sight to behold.
Everyone agrees that the Canadian side of the falls is more interesting than the US side, and they are not wrong. There are far more activities and attractions on the Canadian side, plus you get a better view of the Horseshoe Falls, which is undoubtedly the most beautiful and iconic of the three waterfalls.
To get from Toronto to Niagara Falls, I highly recommend catching the earliest 7:30 AM Flixbus from Union Bus Terminal. The bus costs 17 USD and it will drop you off at the Niagara Falls Bus Stop, conveniently located near the Visitor Center, at around 9 AM. This gives you plenty of time to take in the stunning views and enjoy all the exciting activities the falls have to offer.
Some of my favorite activities at Niagara Falls included going on the Niagara City Cruise. I initially thought it would be a tourist trap, but it turned out to be one of the most fun experiences I had! The 20-minute boat ride takes you right into the heart of Horseshoe Falls, allowing you to fully appreciate the immense scale of Niagara Falls. Just be prepared to get wet, despite the provided rain poncho, you'll still feel the mist 😂!
Another awesome thing to do here is to go up the Skylon Tower, an observation deck that stands 520 feet tall from ground level and towers 775 feet above the falls, offering a perfect 360-degree panoramic view of not just the falls but the entire region. Who needs a drone when you have the Skylon Tower, right?
If you're looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity at Niagara Falls, you might want to check out WildPlay Zipline. You can zipline across the entire length of Fallsview Trail with an incredible view of the falls. It almost feels like you're ziplining straight into the falls, which I think is pretty epic!
You can also spend the day going on amusement rides and enjoying yourself at Clifton Hill, which is a famous street and entertainment district located near Niagara Falls. It is famous for its wide variety of attractions, from a giant Ferris wheel to Haunted Houses, and more.
Once you’re done, catch the Flixbus from the same bus stop where you were dropped off to head back to Toronto. The journey should take about 2-3 hours, depending on traffic, and you’ll arrive just in time for dinner. From there, take the subway to Wellesley, one of my favorite areas in the city, and check out some of the area's awesome restaurants and bars like Storm Crow Manor, and enjoy your last night here before we head over to Montreal the next day.
Getting from Toronto to Montreal
From Toronto to Montreal, you can catch the Via Train from Union Station and it will take you about 5.5 hours to reach Gare Central in Montreal where you should be able to get to your accommodation on foot. The train costs 119.57 CAD and you can book the ticket here.
Day 4-6: Montreal (3 Nights)
After you arrive in Montreal, you can spend the first evening getting acquainted with the city before beginning your exploration the next day. Trust me, you are going to need it as we are now in the French-speaking part of Canada. On our first day in Montreal, we are going to focus on exploring Old Montreal, a charming district situated along the banks of the St. Lawrence River. This area is home to the city’s historic landmarks and is where Montreal was first founded. One of the first places I highly recommend you visit is Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal, and you will see why the moment you enter this place.
Out of all the attractions in Montreal I visited, Notre-Dame Basilica of Montreal is hands down the most beautiful of all. It is probably one of the most beautiful basilicas in Canada, with its stunning Gothic Revival architecture and an interior that will blow your mind!
To get inside, you can either buy a ticket at the entrance, which often has long queues throughout the day, or you can reserve a time slot and book your ticket online here to skip the queue. I got mine online using my phone right at the entrance as soon as I realized how long the physical ticket queue was! Do yourself a favor and book it online!
After you are done at the church, you can make your way towards the river and check out the Old Port of Montreal (Vieux-Port de Montréal), a historic waterfront district that stretches along the Saint Lawrence River, adjacent to Old Montreal.
There are beautiful green parks, numerous museums, and even an amusement park with a massive ferris wheel, an adventure park, and even a skating rink in winter. The place is always lively throughout the day, and I love coming here when the sun is out.
While you’re here, make sure to check out the Clock Tower, a historical monument located at the northern end of the port. Head to the Port of Montreal Tower for a stunning elevated view of the area, or enjoy a ride on the ferris wheel at La Grande Roue de Montréal.
Cross the street to shop at the Bonsecours Market or spend some time wandering along Saint-Paul Street, the main pedestrian thoroughfare running parallel to the Old Port. You’ll find plenty of restaurants here, making it the perfect spot for a quick lunch break before continuing on.
After lunch, you can spend a few hours exploring the Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History, a museum built atop the very site where the city was founded in the 17th century. The museum consists of several interconnected pavilions, each dedicated to different facets of Montreal's history. You can explore some of its best permanent exhibitions, such as "Where Montréal Was Born", which highlights the city's founding and early development, and "Building Montréal", where you'll be whisked back in time to relive key moments in the city’s past under French and British regimes, from the 17th to the 19th century.
As sunset approaches, I highly recommend you spend the evening strolling around and watching the sunset at Parc Jean-Drapeau, a prominent recreational area established in 1967 during the World's Fair, Expo 67, located on Saint Helen's Island and Notre-Dame Island in the Saint Lawrence River.
One of the most iconic attractions here, which you’ve probably already seen across the river from the Old Port, is the massive Biosphere, an environmental museum housed in a striking geodesic dome. It’s a place where you can learn more about sustainable development and environmental issues. Even if you're not interested in the museum's content, you can still admire its massive scale from the outside and take some photos while exploring the rest of the island.
On the island, you'll find several gardens with benches where you can enjoy some solitude and relax. One of my favorite spots to sit back, unwind, and enjoy the sunset over Montreal's cityscape is by Trois Disques, a massive obelisk sculpture gifted by France in 1962. There are several chairs here where you can watch the sunset over the city in solitude.
After the sun sets, head back to the Old Port or Saint-Paul Street to enjoy dinner and relax for the rest of the evening. When you’re ready, return to your accommodation to rest and prepare for another long but exciting day ahead.
One of the most impressive botanical gardens you can visit in Canada is Jardin botanique de Montréal, a massive urban oasis full of beautiful architecture and greenery that cover more than 75 hectares. It is considered one of the largest botanical gardens in the world, with more than 22,000 plant species across 10 exhibition greenhouses and approximately 20 thematic gardens, a perfect place to begin our second day in Montreal.
From the city center, you can take the Green Line metro to Pie-IX Station. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes, bringing you close to the botanical garden. The entrance is located at the bottom right corner of the park (when viewed on a map) and is just a short walk from the metro station.
There are a variety of gardens inside, with one of my favorites being the Chinese Garden, where you’ll find a stunning pond, a small waterfall, and several incredible pavilions that were made in China, shipped, and reassembled here in Montreal for visitors to enjoy. I highly recommend starting your journey here as you continue along its multiple crisscrossing walking paths.
Another awesome garden is the Japanese Garden, with its beautiful zen rock garden, a stunning recreation of Japanese minimalist interior architecture, and many stone altars and shrines scattered across its rolling green hills. I visited the botanical garden in early October, and my goodness, the autumn colors were absolutely breathtaking. Really, if you can visit Montreal during autumn, do it, it’s one of the best times to see the city!
There is also a garden and an exhibition dedicated to the First Nations, or the Indigenous peoples, which showcases the many faces of Indigenous cultures, as well as their ways of life, artifacts, and more. Be sure to keep an eye out for it as you explore the gardens.
In addition to the gardens, you'll also find the Montreal Insectarium, with displays of live and mounted specimens, beehives, and free-flying butterflies; the Space for Life museum, where you'll find a greenhouse full of plants; and so much more. You can expect to spend half a day exploring the botanical garden alone.
Next up, we are going to visit Jean Talon Market, one of the best markets located in Montreal's Little Italy district and considered one of the largest open-air markets in North America. You can spend some time exploring the market or stop here for lunch before we continue on to visit Mount Royal.
From Jean Talon Market, you can take the metro blue line to Côte-des-Neiges Station to visit Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal, one of my favorite attractions in Montreal. It is a Roman Catholic basilica situated on the northern slope of Mount Royal and is famous for being the world's largest shrine dedicated to Saint Joseph. You can see its massive dome from miles away!
The church features a massive dome that rises over 97 meters in height. Combined with its location on the hillside of Mount Royal, it is considered the tallest church in Canada and one of the largest domed structures ever built in the world. As you scale the stairs and reach the balcony, you are rewarded with an incredible view of the city from above, perfect for capturing some amazing photos.
As you walk in, you’ll be greeted by the main basilica on the upper level of the church. From there, you can make your way down floor by floor, exploring all of its hidden gems, from the Crypt Church to the Votive Chapel and beyond. I thought it would be a quick visit, but it took me more than an hour to explore all the floors inside. There’s just so much to see here!
For today's sunset, we are going to visit Kondiaronk Belvedere, an incredible viewpoint on the hillside of Mount Royal, which is a prominent hill and park located not too far from the basilica. You can catch the bus #11 to get to the park's parking lot and from there, you can walk for about 10 minutes to reach the viewpoint.
Kondiaronk Belvedere offers an incredible vantage point over Montreal, and you can see much of the city's skyline from here. Sunset up here is pretty incredible, which is why I leave this at the end of the itinerary so you can enjoy the golden hour here at your leisure. At the top, you'll also find a large building with a small café and restrooms where you can take a break and shelter if it gets too windy.
Once you’re finished, you can hike back down to the city center via the hiker’s staircases. The hike is easy, straightforward, and takes about 10 minutes. After arriving back in the city, head to Bishop Street, where you’ll find plenty of charming restaurants and bars to enjoy for the night before retreating for the day.
Getting from Montreal to Quebec City
From Montreal to Quebec City, you can catch the Via Train from Gare Central, and it will take you about 3.5 hours to reach Gare du Palais in Quebec City, where you should be able to get to your accommodation on foot. The train costs 113.83 CAD, and you can book the ticket here.
Day 7-9: Quebec City (3 Nights)
Upon arriving in Quebec City, you’ll be greeted by one of the most iconic landmarks in Quebec, if not all of Canada, the fairy-tale-like Château Frontenac, perched atop a bluff overlooking the St. Lawrence River. Spend your first evening walking through St. Jean Gate and strolling along the city’s stone walls, taking in the sight of Château Frontenac from afar before winding down for the day.
I was fortunate enough to visit when the northern lights were active, and it was incredible! It's not every day you get to see such bright northern lights visible to the naked eye, even from a lit city street. I’ve seen the northern lights before, but never quite as bright as this! If you’re there in October, be sure to look up at the night sky!
The next morning, you can come and explore Château Frontenac properly. Although it might look like a castle, Château Frontenac is actually a hotel built in 1893 with the primary purpose of attracting tourists to the region. And it has certainly succeeded, as it's the photo of this hotel that first sparked my interest in visiting Quebec. This place is so popular that it has been crowned the most photographed hotel in the world, thanks to its grand châteauesque architectural style, iconic turrets, and copper roofs.
I highly recommend you come here as early as you can, and you will likely have much of the place to yourself. You can also enter the hotel's lobby to admire its grand interior, even if you are not a guest of the hotel, or you can enjoy views of the hotel from various points around the city. One of my favorite viewpoints is from Dufferin Terrace, which is where we’ll be heading next.
Right next to Château Frontenac, you will find Dufferin Terrace, a vast boardwalk that spans along the bluff, offering a panoramic view of the St. Lawrence River and an unobstructed view of Château Frontenac. A perfect place for a morning stroll as you wait for the city to wake up.
Here, you will also find beautiful gazebos and benches where you can relax and enjoy an elevated view of Château Frontenac and the surrounding areas. In winter, you’ll find a toboggan slide at the southern end of the terrace where you can ride down the hill, a fun activity for all ages.
Spend some time taking photos of the view and Château Frontenac before continuing down the terrace until we reach the Pierre-Dugua-De-Mons Terrace, one of my favorite spots in the city and a place I often visit to relax at sunset. This terrace offers a stunning elevated view of the city, with an unobstructed sightline of both Château Frontenac and the entire Old Quebec area.
At the terrace, you will also find grassy areas where people often come to picnic and enjoy each other's company. It is a bit of a walk from downtown to the terrace, but trust me, the view is worth every drop of sweat. I love the viewpoint so much that I came here twice in one day, once during daylight and again at sunset, just to experience the beauty of the golden hour. I'd do it again in a heartbeat.
After you are done, do not continue along the walls of the citadel quite yet as we will be doing that on our second day. For now, we are going to make our way down to Quartier Petit Champlain, an old historic neighborhood located just under the bluff where Château Frontenac stands. It is the place where you will find all the charming cobblestone streets and old stone houses the city is best known for.
Be sure to drop by and check out Escalier Casse-Cou (Breakneck Steps) while you explore Quartier Petit Champlain. This narrow stairway offers a fantastic view of the area from above. The stairs were given their current name in the mid-19th century due to their steepness, which I think is pretty cool, although I wish it had a darker story behind it 😂.
Another fantastic place to see stunning European-style stone houses in Quebec City is Place Royale, a historic square that feels like a small town in Western Europe, complete with a statue and a stone church in the center. It’s located right next to Quartier Petit Champlain, so you can easily continue your walk all the way there.
Established in the early 17th century, Place Royale is considered the birthplace of French America and offers a glimpse into the early days of Quebec City and the establishment of New France. The area was the city's commercial hub until the mid-19th century when it was moved uphill as the city expanded.
Right around the corner of Place Royale, you will also find a massive mural called Quebec City Mural. Measuring over 400 feet in length and 40 feet in height, it illustrates the history of Quebec City and pays homage to several notable figures. It was inaugurated in 1999 and painted by 12 French and Quebec artists over a 9-week period. It is quite a sight to behold.
Once that is done, you can drop by L'Antiquaire Buffet, a local restaurant known for its authentic Quebecois cuisine and warm, family-friendly atmosphere. It has been a local favorite for over 40 years. We can stop here for brunch.
The restaurant serves all kinds of breakfast food, which is my favorite type of food 😛, both Quebecois and others, like breakfast poutine, "Cipaille", a delicious meat pie, "Ragoût de Boulettes", a lovely meatball stew, and the universal classics like Egg Benedicts. They are delicious and come in a very generous portion. I had a breakfast plate here for lunch, and it filled me up for the entire day!
After lunch, you can come and check out the Museum of Civilization, located not far from Port Royale. The museum is best known for its interactive exhibitions that focus on understanding the various facets of human society, culture, and history.
The museum is housed in a stunning structure that blends modern design with its historic surroundings. Inside, you’ll find many exhibitions dedicated to understanding the human experience, from how the body works to how society functions, from the history of Quebec to the history of the world, and so much more.
That should take about 2 hours, and once you're done, you can spend the rest of the evening wandering around the old town. Be sure to return to Pierre-Dugua-De-Mons Terrace and relax on the grassy hill as you watch the sunset over the stunning skyline of Quebec City. It can get pretty windy and cold up here, especially after the sunset, so be sure to pack some layers.
Looking for a place for dinner? I highly recommend you check out Paillard, a café/boulangerie located right on the main street of Rue Saint-Jean. The place is known for its delicious breads and pastries, which perfectly combine the talent of French artisans with an "American-style" experience. It is a franchise native of Quebec, and a must-try when you are here.
It's like having a proper French bakery in Canada, offering a variety of delicious baked goods. They also serve some of the most delicious sandwiches I've tried, with the New Yorker being my favorite.
After dinner, you can come and check out Place D'Youville, a large public square that connects the Old Town to the rest of the city. It is a vibrant gathering spot that often hosts various events and activities throughout the year.
There’s always something happening at the square. When I was there, several performers were entertaining the crowd with their music and dances, and it was a blast. You can check it out to see what's going on, or if you prefer, you can retreat for the night and prepare for your day trip to Montmorency Falls the following day.
Montmorency Falls is one of the most beautiful natural attractions near Quebec City, and it’s where we’ll spend our second day of the itinerary. Just a 40-minute bus ride will take you to this massive waterfall, surrounded by lush green vegetation, with several walking trails to explore.
The waterfall stands about 83 meters tall, which is 30 meters higher than Niagara Falls. You'll be able to admire it up close from all directions, whether from an elevated viewpoint, a distant vantage point, or right above the falls themselves, thanks to the walking paths and viewpoints built around the area.
To get to the waterfall, I recommend catching bus #800 from Gare du Palais Bus Stop. It’ll take you straight to Montmorency Falls in about 35 minutes for just around 3.5 CAD. When you get there, be sure to hop off at des Rapides Bus Stop, as it is closer to the entrance than the Montmorency Bus Stop. The entrance fee to the falls is 5.74 CAD per person.
Once you've entered, you have several options. You can either walk across the top of the waterfall and take the stairs down to the bottom, or you can take the cable car up and down directly from the entrance. Personally, I love walking, it allowed me to get up close to the waterfall, take my time, and really soak in the beauty of the place... literally! 😂
Make sure to pack a rain jacket, as you’ll definitely get wet the closer you get to the waterfall. It’s totally worth it, but in winter, the cold spray can be pretty brutal 😅. You can expect to spend at least half a day here, exploring the beautiful walking paths. I highly recommend visiting in autumn, as I did, when the fall colors of the trees are in full swing.
The entrance fee to the waterfall is around 9 CAD per person. The cable car costs around 15 CAD for a round-trip ticket and 13 CAD for a one-way ticket. There are often long lines for the cable car, so if you want to avoid the wait, I suggest walking up the same way you came down.
Just keep in mind that there is no bus stop at the bottom, so you’ll need to return to the entrance to catch the #800 bus back to Quebec City at the Montmorency Bus Stop. If you’d rather not deal with any of this, you can opt for an organized day trip to handle all the logistics for you.
After you are done with the waterfall, you can take the bus back to Quebec City, enjoy a little lunch break at Poutineville, and try some of the finest poutine dishes here before heading over to the Citadelle of Québec for a little afternoon stroll. The citadel is located right next to Pierre-Dugua-De-Mons Terrace, the sunset spot you visited the day before.
With our time limit, going inside the citadel is not recommended because in order to see inside, you will have to go on a guided tour and that requires quite a time commitment, so instead, I recommend you walk along the citadel's walls all the way to the Plains of Abraham, our next stop.
The Plains of Abraham, a historic park that played a pivotal role in the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in the 18th century. This battle marked a significant turning point in the Seven Years' War, leading to British control over New France.
Today, the Plains of Abraham is Canada's first national historic park, and it is massive with the area encompassing about 98 hectares of land atop Cap Diamant. While you're here, you can visit The Plains of Abraham Museum to learn more about the events of the Seven Years' War, explore Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec, an art gallery showcasing works from local artists, and enjoy the autumn views at Saint Laurent River Viewpoint, which connects back to Dufferin Terrace, a great way to return to the Old Town without having to climb any hills again.
If you're looking for another great sunset spot in Quebec City, consider heading up to the Observatoire de la Capitale, an observation deck located on the 31st floor of the Marie-Guyart Building, the city’s tallest skyscraper, standing at 132 meters. The admission fee is 14.75 CAD per person and you can reserve a spot here.
After sunset, head to one of the many pubs and bars along Rue Saint-Jean Street for dinner and a fun evening before winding down for the night. Be sure to keep an eye out for more street performers along the way! And that is it for this simple and easy-to-follow 10-day backpacking itinerary for Canada, without having to rent a car. Congratulations!
Getting out of Quebec City
There aren't many direct flights out of Quebec City, as most international flights require a layover in either Toronto or Montreal, the main travel hubs in this region of Canada. You can fly back to the US or Europe via Air Canada, with a transit in Toronto. For flights to Asia, you'll need to take a different airline, flying domestically to Toronto before catching an international flight with airlines like Emirates or Qatar. You can look up flights here.
When to Visit Canada?
Autumn, from late September to early November, is without a doubt the best time to visit Canada. The country does have some of the most breathtaking autumn colors in the world, with entire forests transforming into vibrant shades of orange and yellow by late October.
I was lucky enough to visit during this time, and the colors were absolutely stunning, I’ve never seen anything like it! Canada is, without question, the most beautiful country to visit in autumn. Summer months are fine too, but you won't get those beautiful autumn colors and perfect weather like you will get in autumn.
How to Get to Canada?
For this itinerary, you can fly into Toronto, a major travel hub in Canada, with plenty of direct flights available from the US and Europe. If you're traveling from Asia, you can rely on excellent airlines like Emirates or Qatar Airways to reach Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), the city’s main airport. To find the most affordable options from your home country, consider using platforms like Skyscanner or Expedia.
How to Get From Toronto's Airport to Downtown?
By UP Express Trains: The UP Express Train is the easiest and fastest way to travel between Toronto's airport and downtown. You can catch the train directly from Pearson Station, and in about 45 minutes, you’ll arrive at Union Station. The journey costs approximately 12.5 CAD.
From there, you can easily take the subway to your accommodation. The train operates from 4:55 AM to 12:57 AM on weekdays and from 6:00 AM to 12:57 AM on weekends and holidays. The e-ticket is valid for a year, so you can book it in advance here.
By Buses: If you happen to arrive during the UP Train off hours, you can try checking out the schedule of TTC or GO Buses, or you can punch in your accommodation address on Google Maps and see what your options are. It usually takes longer and might require you to transfer a few times, but it will get you to your accommodation eventually.
By Uber: If you would rather go straight to your accommodation without having to deal with the logistics, you can also use Uber or organize a private transfer to pick you up at the airport. You can book the private transfer here.
How to Around Canada?
By Via Rail: The primary mode of transportation for this itinerary will be Via Rail trains, the Canadian equivalent of Amtrak, featuring a newer fleet of trains with a price tag to match. While it’s not the cheapest option, Via Rail is highly efficient and convenient, especially for an itinerary like this that goes from one major city to another.
You can easily book your train tickets or check the schedule here. Keep an eye out for sales, as Via Rail often offers discounts throughout the year, which can significantly lower the price. Personally, I found the regular fares to be on the pricey side, especially when compared to Amtrak in the US.
Via Rail operates similarly to airlines, with different tiers of fares. The cheapest is the Escape Fare, which allows you to select a specific seat for an additional 7 CAD and bring one small to medium-sized carry-on bag for free, with an extra 25 CAD for additional carry-on items. I traveled with a 65-liter backpack and was able to store it in the overhead compartment without needing to pay for extra baggage.
Keep in mind that if you are traveling with oversized baggage that the staff deems you cannot store inside the top compartment, then you are going to have to pay the extra baggage fee. There will be staff checking the baggage before you board the train. It will be cheaper to pay during the booking process than at the train station.
Once you've purchased your train ticket, I recommend arriving at the station about 30 minutes before departure. Queues typically start forming about 15 minutes prior, and you'll have some time to grab snacks for the trip.
I traveled with Via Rail all over Canada, and it’s generally reliable, though the Wi-Fi can be inconsistent at times. Other than that, I have no complaints. Trains are an easy way to get around the country and ensure you’ll be dropped off in a convenient location, as most train stations are situated in city centers.
By Flixbus: If you’re looking to save money, consider traveling with Flixbus. They are affordable, reliable (relatively speaking), and operate frequently on most major routes. In this itinerary, we’ll be using Flixbus to travel from Toronto to Niagara Falls, which will give you a chance to gauge your experience and decide if you’d prefer the bus or the train for future trips.
I found Flixbus to be exactly the same experience as in Europe: affordable and gets the job done, although the time it takes will pretty much depend on the traffic in the city. I very much prefer train travel for its efficiency and comfort, but if you want to save money, Flixbus is definitely the way to go.
How Much Money Do I Need for 10 Days in Canada?
From this 10-day itinerary, we can calculate approximately how much money you will be spending here as follows:
| 🛌 Lodging: | 373 USD (37.3 USD/Day) |
| 🥘 Food: | 405 USD (45 USD/Day) |
| 🚗 Transport: | 185.68 USD (18.56 USD/Day) |
| 🧗 Activities: | 188.49 USD (20.9 USD/Day) |
| 💰 Total Budget: | 1,152.17 USD (115.2 USD/Day) |
Is it Safe in Canada?
We’ll be visiting major cities across both French- and English-speaking Canada. While safety can vary between cities, Quebec City, for instance, feels safer than Toronto, I never once felt threatened during my stay. Of course, I stayed mostly in touristy areas with a strong police presence, which likely contributed to my sense of security. Overall, Canada does feel a bit safer than the US, though the US has its own safety advantages as well!
That said, like in most major cities, you’ll encounter homeless individuals, often spending time in parks or along the streets. The golden rule is to avoid engaging with them, as they’re unlikely to bother you. As long as you stay aware of your surroundings and avoid making yourself an easy target, especially when walking alone at night, you should be fine. Much like in the US, being street-smart is key in Canada as well!
Which tourist SIM card is best for the Canada?
There are three major carriers in Canada, namely Rogers, Telus, and Bell, that offer prepaid SIM cards for tourists to purchase while traveling in the country. You can usually grab these SIM cards right at the airport, but if you have a smartphone and want data immediately when you arrive, you might want to consider an eSIM.
If you have a smartphone that supports eSIMs, I highly recommend you take a look at this eSIM. They have a variety of data packages, price points, and durations for you to choose from, ranging from 1 GB for 7 days costing only 6 USD to 20 GB for 30 days costing 49 USD.
The setup is fast and instant, and you can buy it before your trip so you don't have to scramble to get one at the airport after a long flight. The data speed is also equivalent to what you get with a local SIM card, with 4G speed across the entire country.
For more information on eSIMs in Canada, click here: Check the Canada Available eSIM.
What to Pack for Canada?
As you may already know, I am an advocate of light traveling, and indeed, packing light for a journey like this is a unique art form. Here are some packing tips for your upcoming trip to Canada:
- Walking/Hiking Shoes: With all the walking and possible hiking during your travel, a comfortable pair of shoes is a must. I recommend the Timberland 3-Eye Classic Boat Shoes that are my go-to pair for long strolls and hikes.
- Breathable Shirts: Given the potential for hot weather, pack a few breathable shirts for your outdoor adventures.
- Shorts/Jeans: Anticipate lots of walking during your travels? Be sure to pack some breathable shorts and a pair of Levi's jeans for when the weather cools. For women, leggings are excellent for both hot and cold climates, so consider packing some as well.
- Fleece Jacket: For colder weather, layering is the key, and a fleece jacket makes an excellent insulating layer. I recommend the Columbia Steens Mountain Fleece (for women).
- Outer Shell Jacket: An outer shell jacket is great for windy or rainy conditions. I highly recommend the Columbia Watertight Jacket (for women). It's lightweight, breathable, and even comes in a cool orange color.
- Microfiber Towel: A Microfiber towel is the ideal backpacker's towel due to its lightness, quick drying, and compressibility.
- Camera: You should also pack a good camera for your trip so that you can capture all the beautiful experiences you might have. I recommend the Sony a7R V camera together with the Sony 24-70mm f2.8 GM II lens, which is probably the highest-performance camera and lens combination you can get right now.
- Power Bank: Keep your electronics charged on the go with a 20,000+ mAh Power Bank.
- Water Bottle: The Hydro Flask Trail Water Bottle is a great insulated water bottle to have with you in cities or on hiking trails. It is lightweight and can keep your water cold or warm for more than 12 hours. It's a total game-changer.
- Universal Adapter: You'll need just one universal adapter to plug in your electronics in any country you visit.
- Packing Cubes: Packing Cubes will help you save space in your backpack and keep all your belongings organized.
- Daypack: The Langly Alpha Globetrotter is my go-to everyday camera backpack. It's large enough to carry all my travel gear, and it comes with plenty of slots and pouches. Plus, it's stylish as hell!
- Large Backpack: You will need a large backpack to carry all of your stuff. I recommend the Osprey Atmos AG 65L backpack. With excellent weight distribution and a lifetime guarantee, you can't go wrong with Osprey.
For more information on what I pack in my backpack for this trip, check out: My Packing List: 60 Travel Essentials.
Now that we have all the information we need, it's time to start planning your trip! Here are some resources to help you get going:
Are you planning to travel independently? Be sure to check out my guide on How To Plan A Backpacking Trip here.
Further Reading for Canada
If you are looking for more articles about Canada, here are a few articles that might help you plan your trip:
- Toronto's true charm lies within its diverse neighborhoods. To really experience the best the city has to offer, you are going to need this guide: Discover Toronto: 12 Awesome Things to Do and See.
- You can experience so much in Toronto in just 3 days! Check out this complete itinerary for first-time visitors: 3 Days in Toronto: A Backpacking Itinerary.
- Niagara Falls is as epic as it gets when it comes to natural destinations. If you want to visit it, you are going to need this travel guide: Exploring Canada's Niagara Falls in a Day: A Complete Travel Guide.
- Being the largest city in French Canada, Montreal strikes the perfect balance between nature and city life, and it is jam-packed with awesome things to do and see. Here are the 10 Incredible Things to Do in Montreal.
- One of my favorite cities in Canada, Quebec City is a fascinating destination to visit. From its rich history to a charming touch of European romanticism that you can't find anywhere else in North America, you do not want to miss it when you are in Canada. Here are the 10 Best Things to Do in Quebec City.
- Wondering how many days to spend in Quebec City? Here's a complete itinerary for you: 2 Days in Quebec City: A Backpacking Itinerary.
- To see all articles about Canada, be sure to check out our Canada travel guide page.
- For a complete itinerary of both the US and Canada, check out: One Month in USA & Canada: A Backpacking Itinerary without Cars.
- Looking for more travel guides for North America? You will find more over at our North America page.
- For more of my travel guides, visit my Destinations page.
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