Trip Report
Trip Report
The Best of Toronto and Montreal
Toronto and Montreal are some of the best kept secrets in North America. From unique neighbourhoods and delicious restaurants to a vibrant art scene and picturesque parks.
+ 2
Canada6 days / August 2019
Highs & Lows
Cycling past the cottages on the Toronto Islands
Getting stuck at Bloor-Yonge Station during rush hour
Itinerary Overview
In August 2019, I decided to spend one week visiting Toronto and Montreal. Arriving in Toronto, I spent my time exploring the city’s unique neighbourhoods and incredible restaurants. After two full days exploring Toronto’s downtown core, I visited the scenic Toronto Islands for some leisurely cycling.
After arriving in Montreal, I experienced the city’s strong art and music scene through various galleries, boutiques, museums, and live music shows. Montreal’s unique culture extends to it’s French-Canadian cuisine, which I tasted at famous eateries Joe Beef and Au Pied de Cochon.
If I could change one thing about this trip, I would have allocated more time to explore popular markets in both cities such as Jean Talon Market in Montreal and St. Lawrence Market in Toronto. Overall, a fantastic trip!
Q & A
What would you have changed?
I was very happy with how my trip went in both of these cities. If I had more time in Toronto, I would have also allotted extra time to see Yorkville and the ROM museum. In Montreal, I would have visited Jean Talon Market to sample some of Quebec’s famous cheeses.
How was the food?
The food in Toronto and Montreal is incredible. In my opinion, both of these Canadian cities rival larger cities such as New York or Mexico City for the best culinary scene in North America.
What tips would you give a friend?
The charm of both Toronto and Montreal are their unique neighbourhoods. Spend each day exploring a different part of the city, rather than large tourist attractions such as the CN Tower.
Packing tips?
If you visit Toronto and Montreal in the summer, make sure to bring a sweater or light jacket for the evenings, especially since Montreal is usually cooler than Toronto. The weather can also vary significantly depending on the week, with heat waves becoming more frequent. Make sure to check the weather 48 hours before you leave on your trip and pack appropriately.
Transportation Tips?
Public transit in Toronto and Montreal is extensive in the downtown areas. For this reason grab a reloadable PRESTO card in Toronto or purchase metro tickets in Montreal. Toronto and Montreal have the third and fourth busiest metro systems in North America, so try to avoid peak hours. I flew from Toronto to Montreal on Porter Airlines, which is located at Billy Bishop Airport on the Toronto Islands.
Lodging
The Annex Hotel
Hotel Gault
