Toronto in 48 Hours: The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary
Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is a vibrant mix of cultures, food, and art a true urban adventure waiting to be explored. Even with just 48 hours, you can experience its iconic skyline, historic neighborhoods, and world-class dining. Start your weekend with Toronto’s most famous landmark, the CN Tower, where you can take in breathtaking views of Lake Ontario or test your nerve on the thrilling EdgeWalk. Afterward, grab a coffee from Boxcar Social or Balzac’s and enjoy a stroll along the Waterfront Trail, passing sailboats and public art. Just steps away is Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, a great stop if you want a glimpse of marine life before diving into the city’s cultural core.
For lunch, head to Queen Street West, Toronto’s trendiest strip filled with boutiques, murals, and cafés. Refuel with a hearty burger at Burger’s Priest or enjoy a local brew at Bellwoods Brewery before wandering through Kensington Market, a colorful neighborhood buzzing with vintage shops, international eats, and street art. Nearby, Chinatown tempts you with dim sum and bubble tea — perfect for an afternoon snack. As evening sets in, explore the Entertainment District for a Broadway-style show and dinner at Pai or Kōst, or choose the Distillery District for cobblestone charm, galleries, and craft cocktails amid historic brick warehouses.
On day two, start at the St. Lawrence Market, where you can sample local specialties like the famous peameal bacon sandwich. From there, walk through Toronto’s Old Town, admiring the Flatiron Building and nearby architectural gems. Late morning, catch the ferry to the Toronto Islands for skyline views, bike rides, or a quiet beach escape — one of the best ways to see the city from a new perspective. If the weather isn’t ideal, explore the Allan Gardens Conservatory, a lush indoor oasis. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in culture at the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) or the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), or shop your way through Yorkville and the Eaton Centre.
As the sun sets, savor dinner at one of Toronto’s top restaurants like Richmond Station, Bar Isabel, or Mamakas Taverna, each offering a distinct culinary experience. End your weekend with live music at the Drake Underground or a cocktail at Civil Liberties, one of the city’s hidden speakeasies. With its walkable downtown, multicultural neighborhoods, and endless energy, Toronto is a city that rewards curiosity — even in just 48 hours, you’ll leave with a true taste of its spirit and style.
