Hello everyone, today I’m taking you to one of my favourite destinations, a place that feels like perfection. If you’ve been following me you’d know we went to Canada and ever since I’ve been under its spell! So, I landed in May, ready to tick off the usual must-dos but by the time I left I had seen a version of my trip and of myself I never knew existed. I mean, nature, people and life were just perfect. From gorgeous road trips through dreamy towns to fall colours that looked straight out of a storybook, every moment had me saying, wow, is this real, and I literally mean it!
I wasn’t just ticking off tourist spots, I was living like a local. Road tripping across Ontario, slipping into small town life and experiencing Canada in the most natural and comfortable way possible. If you’re visiting for the first time, here’s what you shouldn’t skip plus some pro tips for which you’ll thank me for later, so let’s get started!
Toronto- A City of Endless Energy
Toronto felt like a scene straight out of a Hollywood movie, people rushing past, perfectly dressed, Tim Hortons and Starbucks in hand, luxury bags swinging, heading to offices or chic brunch spots. It had that ambitious and exciting energy, I don’t know what it was but definitely felt, what you see in classics like sex and the city!
Don’t Miss: CN Tower EdgeWalk if you love adventure, Distillery District for that old world charm and Kensington Market for the coolest vintage finds.
Pro Tip: The city’s transit system is great but Toronto traffic is a nightmare. Skip Ubers and just take the subway or if you have a car then park it and walk, that’s the best and an amazing way to see the city.
Centre Island & Lakeshore- Toronto’s Scenic Escape
Just a short ferry ride from downtown, Centre Island is where you go when you want to breathe, picnic or just stare at the Toronto skyline in all its glory.
Don’t Miss: Rent a bike, have a lakeside picnic or just get lost in nature.
Pro Tip: Take the ferry in the evening, the sunset views over the city are unreal.
And then there’s Lakeshore, Toronto’s underrated gem I’d say. Whether you’re jogging, rollerblading or just enjoying a coffee by the water, this stretch along Lake Ontario is something else and if you happen to be there, you’ll know exactly why!
Pro Tip: Drive down at night as the skyline reflections on the lake are something else!
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the golden hour, it’s simply magic.
Niagara Falls & Niagara-on-the-Lake- The Perfect Duo
Yes, the falls are as unbelievably beautiful exactly how you’d have seen on the Internet but even more mighty and stunning. What no one tells you is Niagara-on-the-Lake, this gorgeous town is a must visit!
Don’t Miss: The boat ride (prepare to get soaked), sipping wine at one of the vineyards, and strolling through Niagara-on-the-Lake’s fairytale-like streets.
Pro Tip: Avoid weekends unless you love crowds. Try Icewine, you’d love it or just have it for the experience.
Quebec City & Montreal- A Slice of Europe
There’s something about Cobblestone streets, charming cafés that feels so cosy and peaceful! Having our cousin here made it like a family reunion!
Don’t Miss: Old Quebec’s fairytale vibes, Château Frontenac views and Montreal’s food scene especially the bagels and poutine.
Pro Tip: French isn’t just a second language here, it’s pretty much the main language so a little “Bonjour” goes a long way! Don’t be surprised if hardly anyone speaks in english, that’s what makes it even more interesting!
Blue Mountain & Tobermory- For That serene & spellbinding beauty
Guys, these are the kind of places that make you forget your phone exists.
Don’t Miss: The Bruce Trail hikes, the flowerpot rock formations and that turquoise water in Tobermory.
Pro Tip: Book the Grotto parking in advance, it fills up fast.
Don’t Miss (Blue Mountain): The Scenic Caves suspension bridge, the village cafes and those sunset gondola rides!
Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday for fewer crowds and the most peaceful views.
The Hidden Gems- Small Town Love
These places won’t be on every itinerary but trust me, they should be.
Cambridge, Burlington, London, Ajax, Scarborough, Wainfleet, Woodstock, Kingston, St. Jacobs
I mean imagine strolling down those charming streets, soaking in scenic river walks and feeling that small town charm. I loved checking out St. Jacob’s Market, it’s Canada’s largest year round farmers’ market so you must add it to your list. The food, the handmade finds, the countryside calm I mean everything there was so beautiful.
Pro Tip: These are not the kind of places to rush through so slow down, chat with the locals, and soak it all in, yes the best way to travel.
Quick Car Rental Tips for Canada
If you’ve got family there or a friend or cousin to plan the trip with, that’d be amazing because road trips are always more fun with company and what better than your own tribe. But if not and you’re confident driving on your own then rent a car. You can take detours, stop for coffee, chase sunsets and have the time of your life!
Most rental companies accept foreign driver’s licences if they’re in English or French and valid.
If your licence is in another language, carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) as it acts as a translation, not a replacement.
Do all the paperwork and licence prep before you fly to avoid any last minute hiccups.
Most agencies require drivers to be 21+, with a full licence held for at least a year.
This gorgeous country definitely gets under your skin, good luck shaking it off because I couldn’t. Safe travels and if you have any questions, feel free to comment here or reach out via Instagram DM or email, I’ll be happy to help.
I’ve also shared detailed Canada travel vlogs and destination episodes on my YouTube channel, just type Glam Adventuress to explore all the routes, tips and beautiful moments that make this country unforgettable. Next up, I’ll be sharing the best places to eat in Toronto and nearby, stay tuned.
Until then
Glam Adventuress
