3 Day and 2 Night Tour: Toronto, 1000 Islands, and Niagara Falls

A Practical Guide to the 3-Day and 2-Night Tour: Toronto, 1000 Islands, and Niagara Falls

This three-day journey through some of Canada’s most iconic sights offers a comfortable and well-structured way to experience Toronto’s vibrant cityscape, the breathtaking beauty of Niagara Falls, and the scenic charm of the 1000 Islands. Starting from Montreal, for just $300 per person, you’ll be driven in an air-conditioned vehicle with a knowledgeable guide—perfect for those who want a hassle-free, immersive trip without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances iconic sightseeing with authentic local experiences. For instance, the scenic cruise through the 1000 Islands takes you close to castles and legends, and the Niagara Falls boat ride delivers a jaw-dropping view of the waterfalls up close. Plus, the included hotel stays in comfortable 3/4 star accommodations mean you’re well-rested for each day’s adventures.

One point to consider is that many attractions require additional tickets, so the total cost can add up if you opt for all the extras. Also, the schedule can be quite packed, especially if you want to spend ample time at each site. But if you’re eager for a comprehensive, value-packed experience that hits all the highlights, this tour is an excellent choice. It suits travelers who enjoy organized trips with a good mix of sightseeing, scenic cruising, and city exploration—great for first-timers or anyone looking to maximize a short visit.

Key Points

• Well-organized itinerary offers a balanced mix of city sights, scenic cruises, and natural wonders.
• Comfortable transportation and hotels ensure a relaxed experience, even on a tight schedule.
• Authentic experiences like the 1000 Islands cruise and Niagara Falls boat tour provide close-up views and memorable moments.
• Additional costs for attractions, food, and drinks mean you should budget extra.
• Ideal for travelers wanting to see multiple top destinations without the stress of planning.
• Tour guides receive praise for their knowledge and organization, adding value to the experience.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting in Montreal, this tour kicks off early at 6:45 am from your meeting point on Rue Stanley. From there, the first day is dedicated to exploring the stunning 1000 Islands. The cruise with Rockport Cruises offers a chance to see some of the region’s most picturesque spots—think lush landscapes, historic castles, and whispers of legends. The admission to the cruise isn’t included but at $40 for adults, it’s a worthwhile expense. Many travelers mention the cruise as a highlight, with Yulia_T commenting, “Have a nice ride. Well organized, comfortable bus, nice guide, hotel OK. Overall it is a great experience.” The cruise allows you to see the Boldt Castle on Heart Island and Singer Castle on Dark Island, making it a scenic highlight and perfect for photography lovers.

Next, the tour takes you to Toronto’s downtown core. The first stop is the Toronto City Hall, an architectural icon designed by Viljo Revell. It’s a quick visit, but its distinctive design makes it instantly recognizable—great for a few photos and a quick overview of the city’s modern side. You’ll also visit Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, just steps from the city center, where the marine life exhibits fascinate both kids and adults alike. Although admission isn’t included, many find the experience worth the additional cost, and it’s a fun way to break up the day.

Day two is dedicated to Niagara Falls. The Skylon Tower offers panoramic views of both the U.S. and Canadian sides—an excellent spot for photos, especially if you want to capture the falls in the background. You might find the admission ticket costs around $21, but many will tell you the view is worth it. Then, you get to experience the Niagara City Cruises, a 20-minute boat ride that gets you as close as possible to the thundering waterfalls. The adventure of feeling the mist and hearing the roar is often described as unforgettable—one traveler said, “extremely beautiful and enjoyable,” emphasizing how close-up experiences make this a trip of a lifetime.

Of course, no visit to Niagara Falls would be complete without witnessing the magnificent waterfalls themselves. The sight of the Horseshoe and American Falls is awe-inspiring, especially with the free access to the falls included in the tour. Many reviews praise the spectacle of Niagara; one reviewer highlights the river views, museums, restaurants, and even the casinos, making it a lively, full-day stop.

On the final day, you return to Toronto, where you’ll visit the CN Tower, Canada’s tallest free-standing structure at 553 meters. With admission not included in the package, many travelers choose to spend time on the observation deck, enjoying panoramic views over the city and beyond. The tour wraps up with a stop at The Big Apple roadside attraction in Colborne, where you can buy fresh apple pies—an ideal way to bring a tasty souvenir home and enjoy a lighthearted, local flavor.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Extras

The entire experience is conducted in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, critical for a trip spanning multiple cities and long days. The hotels signed up for this tour meet a 3/4 star standard, offering decent comfort after a day of sightseeing. Having a single hotel booking simplifies logistics, meaning less stress and more time for enjoying your surroundings.

While food and drinks are not included, the tour guides often suggest local eateries, and the stop at the Big Apple provides a fun, tasty takeaway. Expect to pay extra for most attractions—admission tickets for the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and Niagara Cruises range from around $18 to $50, so budgeting for these extras is advisable.

What Travelers Say

The reviews echo a common sentiment: “Well organized,” with many praising the guides for their knowledge and professionalism. Yulia_T notes that “the bus was comfortable, and the guide was nice,” which is reassuring for anyone worried about long drives or group logistics. Some mention the hotel quality is acceptable, though not luxurious—more than enough for a short overnight stay.

A recurring theme is the stunning views and the value of experiencing major attractions in just three days. The scenic cruise in the 1000 Islands and the Niagara boat tour are described as “very close-up, awe-inspiring” moments. The convenience of having tickets arranged in advance, especially for popular sites like the Skylon Tower or Niagara Cruises, saves time and reduces stress.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a structured, rundown of Toronto, Niagara Falls, and the 1000 Islands, all in a short time. It’s perfect for those who prefer guided experiences rather than navigating on their own, as the guides are well-loved for their knowledge.

Travelers on a budget will appreciate the included hotels and the overall value, though they should be prepared for additional costs for attractions. If you’re looking for a quick, memorable trip that hits all the highlights without the hassle of planning, this tour fits the bill. However, if your goal is to spend more time at each site or explore local eateries and hidden gems, you might want to consider more flexible options.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the entire trip is in an air-conditioned vehicle, making long drives comfortable and convenient.

Are accommodations included?
Yes, you’ll stay in 3/4 star standard hotels for two nights, with all bookings handled in advance.

What attractions require additional payment?
Most attractions, including the 1000 Islands cruise, CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and Skylon Tower, charge extra—expect to pay between $18 and $50 for each.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so budget extra for meals, snacks, and souvenirs.

How long is the cruise on the 1000 Islands?
The cruise lasts about 2 hours, offering views of the islands, castles, and legends along the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario.

What is the best time to book this tour?
On average, travelers book about 25 days in advance, especially in peak seasons. The tour is popular, so early booking helps secure your spot.

Bottom Line: If you’re eager to tick off Toronto, Niagara Falls, and the 1000 Islands in one go without the hassle of planning, this well-organized, value-packed tour offers a memorable and scenic experience. It combines iconic sights, authentic boat cruises, and comfortable accommodations, making it a fantastic choice for first-timers, family groups, or anyone seeking a quick but thorough taste of some of Canada’s most celebrated destinations.