Ontario Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Ontario Travel
What’s the best time of year to visit Ontario?
Summer (June-August) is most popular for warm weather, festivals, and outdoor activities like swimming and hiking.
Fall (September-October) is highly recommended for stunning fall foliage, especially in places like Algonquin Park.
Winter (December-February) is great for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, but be prepared for very cold temperatures.
Spring (April-May) is a transition season with fewer crowds, but can be buggy in rural areas.
How big is Ontario?
Ontario is vast. Traveling between major cities like Toronto and Ottawa, or to natural areas like Algonquin Park, can take many hours of driving. Don’t underestimate the travel distances.
Do I need a car to travel in Ontario?
For exploring Toronto and other major cities, public transit is recommended.
For a true Ontario experience, especially for visiting provincial parks, cottage country, or smaller towns, a car is essential.
Is it expensive to travel in Ontario?
Travelers often note that Canada, and especially Ontario’s major cities, can be pricey, particularly for accommodation and dining.
Renting a car and booking last-minute flights can be expensive. Budget-friendly options include camping and cooking your own meals.
What currency is used in Ontario?
The Canadian dollar (CAD). Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted. Many places also accept tap-to-pay with credit cards or phones.
Toronto-Specific Questions
How do I get from the airport to downtown Toronto?
The UP Express train is a fast and convenient option from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ). It takes about 25 minutes to get to Union Station downtown.
Taxis, ride-sharing services, and public buses are also available.
Is public transit in Toronto easy to use?
Yes, the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates a network of subways, streetcars, and buses.
You can pay your fare by tapping your credit or debit card, or a PRESTO card, which can be purchased at subway stations and convenience stores.
What are the must-see attractions in Toronto?
CN Tower (for panoramic views and EdgeWalk).
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) and Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO).
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.
Kensington Market & Chinatown for a vibrant, eclectic atmosphere and food.
Distillery District for historic charm, shops, and restaurants.
Toronto Islands for a great view of the city skyline and beaches.
St. Lawrence Market for food.
Hockey Hall of Fame.
What are some good day trips from Toronto?
Niagara Falls: A very popular day trip. You can drive, take a GO Transit bus/train, or book a tour.
Niagara-on-the-Lake: A charming town known for its wineries and Shaw Festival.
Prince Edward County: Famous for its wineries, beaches, and food scene.
Blue Mountain: A resort village popular for skiing in the winter and hiking/activities in the summer.
Is Toronto a walkable city?
Downtown Toronto is very walkable, and many of the main attractions are close to each other.
The PATH is a network of underground walkways connecting many downtown buildings, which is great for bad weather.
Niagara Falls & The Niagara Region
Is Niagara Falls a tourist trap?
The area around Clifton Hill is very touristy with arcades and attractions. However, the falls themselves are a natural wonder and a breathtaking experience that many travelers find worthwhile.
What’s the best way to see Niagara Falls?
The Hornblower Niagara Cruises (formerly Maid of the Mist) boat tour gets you up close to the base of the falls.
The Journey Behind the Falls allows you to walk through tunnels and see the falls from behind.
For a great view from above, the Skylon Tower offers a panoramic observation deck.
How long should I spend in Niagara Falls?
A single day trip from Toronto is common, but staying overnight allows you to see the falls illuminated at night and explore the nearby towns like Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Nature and Outdoors
Where should I go for hiking and canoeing?
Algonquin Provincial Park is a top recommendation for its vast wilderness, canoe routes, and hiking trails. It’s a classic “Canadian wilderness” experience.
Killarney Provincial Park is known for its white quartzite hills and beautiful lakes.
Bruce Peninsula National Park is famous for its stunning turquoise waters, cliffs, and the Grotto.
What’s “cottage country”?
This term refers to the region north of Toronto, including areas like Muskoka and the Kawarthas, where many Ontarians have summer homes (cottages). It’s a popular destination for lake activities and relaxation.
Are there a lot of bugs in Ontario?
Yes, especially in rural and wilderness areas during the summer months.
Black flies and mosquitos can be prevalent, so bringing insect repellent is highly recommended.
Other Popular Destinations
What is there to do in Ottawa?
Visit Parliament Hill.
Explore the National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Museum of History.
Walk or skate on the Rideau Canal (depending on the season).
Shop and dine in the ByWard Market.
What about Kingston and the Thousand Islands?
Kingston is a historic city with a beautiful waterfront.
The Thousand Islands National Park is best explored by a boat cruise, where you can see the many islands and grand homes.
What’s the best way to travel between cities in Ontario and Quebec?
Driving is the most flexible option.
VIA Rail offers train service between major cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal.
Bus services like Greyhound and Megabus are also available.
Is it feasible to do a multi-province trip (e.g., Ontario and Quebec)?
Yes, but travelers are advised to focus on a specific region to avoid spending too much time driving. A popular itinerary is the Toronto-Ottawa-Montreal-Quebec City route.
Practical Tips
Do I need a visa to visit Ontario/Canada?
This depends on your country of citizenship. Many visitors require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visitor visa. It’s crucial to check the official Government of Canada website for the latest requirements.
What should I pack for an Ontario trip?
Layers are always a good idea, as temperatures can change.
Comfortable shoes for walking.
Bug spray for rural areas in summer.
Sunscreen and a hat.
Is it safe to travel in Ontario?
Generally, Ontario is very safe. As with any large city, it’s wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.