5-day Niagara Falls, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal & Quebec City Tour

Experience the Best of Eastern Canada in Just 5 Days

This 5-day tour from New York City takes you across four vibrant Canadian cities—Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec—plus the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls. For $1,174 per person, you get four nights of accommodation with breakfast, plus transport, guides, and some iconic viewpoints like the Skylon Tower and CN Tower. It’s a well-structured way to tick off multiple major destinations without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

What we love most is how seamlessly the tour connects natural wonders with urban highlights. You’ll see Niagara Falls from different angles, including a nighttime illumination, and then explore historic districts, government buildings, and cultural sites in each city. The inclusion of hotel stays and breakfasts makes it considerable value, freeing you from constant booking hassles.

However, one consideration is that some attractions and meals are optional and come with extra costs, so budget accordingly. Also, the tour’s group size can be quite large—up to 55 travelers—which might not be ideal if you prefer intimate experiences. Still, if you’re eager to maximize your sightseeing in a short time, this tour fits the bill.

This experience suits travelers who want a rundown of Eastern Canada, especially those who prefer guided convenience over DIY planning. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to see the highlights efficiently, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers major cities and natural sights in just 5 days.
• Expert guides like Boris and Jake receive high praise for their knowledge and friendly demeanor.
• Flexible options for attractions such as boat rides and observation decks enhance the experience.
• Hotel and breakfast included offers good value and convenience.
• Large group size (up to 55 travelers) may impact intimacy but keeps the trip lively.
• Some attractions and meals are optional and incur extra costs, so budget accordingly.

A Closer Look at the 5-Day Itinerary

This tour offers an efficient and thoughtfully curated route that balances natural wonders, historic districts, and modern cityscapes. We’re going to break down each day to give you a clear picture of what to expect and why it’s worth your time.

Day 1: From NYC to Niagara Falls via Watkins Glen

Your adventure begins early, with a pickup from NYC or New Jersey. The first highlight is a visit to Watkins Glen State Park, renowned for its dramatic gorge carved by Glen Creek. The gorge features 19 waterfalls over two miles, carved into a landscape of cliffs and cavernous formations. It’s a stunning example of natural artistry, and the walk through the gorge is both invigorating and photogenic.

Note: Watkins Glen is seasonal, open April to October. If it’s closed, the tour replaces it with a visit to the Corning Museum of Glass, which still offers fascinating insights into art and science.

Next, you’ll visit Niagara Falls at night, a spectacular sight when the falls are lit up. The Night Tour gives you a different perspective, emphasizing the falls’ roaring power and shimmering lights. Many reviews praise the experience: “The roar of the falls is deafening and mesmerizing,” one said.

Day 2: Niagara Falls and Toronto

Start your morning with a closer look at Niagara Falls. Optional activities like the Hornblower Niagara Cruise take you right into the mist, putting you face-to-face with the waterfalls’ raw energy. The IMAX: Niagara is a fun way to learn about the falls’ history and grandeur in a short, immersive film.

Afterward, you’ll ascend the Skylon Tower for lunch and panoramic views from 520 feet above the falls. The rotating dining room allows you to savor your meal with a constantly changing backdrop of the natural wonder below.

In the afternoon, the journey continues to Toronto. Highlights include a Harbour Tour on the replica steamer Oriole, giving insight into Toronto’s modern skyline and historic harbour activities. The CN Tower, once the world’s tallest freestanding structure, is a must-see for its glass floor and observation deck—many reviewers call it “a true Canadian icon.”

If time permits, activities like Ripley’s Aquarium with its long underwater tunnel and views of sharks and rays are popular. A Chinese dinner in Chinatown rounds off the day, with many travelers noting the lively atmosphere and authentic flavors.

Day 3: From Toronto to Ottawa, Montreal, and the Thousand Islands

This day combines scenic boat cruises, historic sites, and cultural districts. Starting with a Thousand Islands cruise (optional), you’ll see some of the region’s famous spots and hear tales of pirates and bootleggers, according to reviews.

Your stop in Ottawa features an outside view of Parliament Hill, where the impressive federal government buildings stand tall. The 20-minute stop is enough for some photos and a quick appreciation of Canada’s political heart.

Moving to Montreal, the tour offers a double-decker bus ride with views of Notre-Dame Basilica, a striking Gothic Revival church adorned with stained glass. The Old Montreal district is especially charming, with cobblestone streets and historic buildings dating back to 1642. Many guests mention how well-managed the group is, even with large numbers, thanks to guides like Boris.

Day 4: Exploring Quebec City’s French Charm

Today you’ll visit Quebec, often called the “Little Paris of North America.” The streets are lined with European-style cafes, boutiques, and historic architecture. Old Quebec is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you’ll see landmarks like Place d’Armes and the Chateau Frontenac hotel.

Optional activities include Quebec French cuisine, where many guests rave about the food, and Montmorency Falls, a towering waterfall slightly higher than Niagara. The cable car ride offers sweeping views, making the experience more memorable.

Day 5: Returning via Ausable Chasm

On the last day, you’ll visit Ausable Chasm, a natural wonder carved into Potsdam sandstone over 500 million years ago. Many reviewers note how well-organized Boris is, making sure everyone is safe and accounted for amid the stunning scenery.

The journey back to NYC includes a relaxed stop, and the trip concludes at your original pick-up point, ending a whirlwind but enriching Canadian adventure.

Why This Tour Works

The balance of natural sights and city explorations makes this tour appealing. You’ll get multiple perspectives—from the roaring waterfalls to bustling city streets—and ample opportunities to snap photos or just soak in the views.

The hotel stays with breakfast are a real plus, especially since you won’t have to worry about early-morning planning or finding places to eat. Many reviews praise the hotels’ cleanliness and comfort, which adds to the overall value.

The guides are frequently highlighted as a standout feature. Reviewers mention Boris, Jake, and Wendy as knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful—key ingredients for a smooth trip. Their ability to manage large groups and keep everyone engaged is often praised, making the experience more relaxed.

The Downside?

Some attractions and meals are extra, which can catch you off guard if unprepared. The large group size might feel less intimate for some travelers, but it keeps the atmosphere lively and social. Also, relying on optional activities means your experience can vary based on what you choose to add.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re eager to see multiple destinations in a limited time, and prefer having guides navigate the logistics, this tour is an excellent fit. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors to Canada who want a structured, informative overview. Travelers who appreciate well-organized groups and don’t mind a bit of bus noise will find it a good match. Those seeking more personalized or off-the-beaten-path experiences might prefer more boutique or customizable options.

FAQs

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers transportation, four nights of hotel with breakfast, and some key attractions like Skylon Tower, CN Tower, and Old Quebec. Many optional activities such as boat cruises and admission fees are extra.

How many people will be on the tour?
The group can be quite large—up to 55 travelers—so it’s a lively atmosphere that suits those comfortable with big groups.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included at the hotel. Lunches and dinners, like the Chinese dinner in Toronto, are optional and paid separately.

Do I need a passport?
Yes, U.S. or Canadian citizens need a valid passport or appropriate travel documents to cross the border.

Can I skip some attractions?
Yes, optional attractions have separate fees. You can choose whether to participate, but be aware that some attractions might be part of the scheduled itinerary.

What about travel insurance or cancellations?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. COVID-19 or weather-related cancellations are handled with the option to reschedule or get a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day guided tour offers a practical way to see the highlights of Eastern Canada without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized experience that balances natural beauty, historic sites, and city life. The inclusion of hotel stays and breakfasts adds convenience and value, making it appealing for those looking to cover a lot of ground in a short time.

The high praise for guides like Boris and the stunning views from observation decks ensures you’ll come away with both memories and great photos. Just keep in mind that some attractions are optional and extra costs may apply, so plan your budget accordingly.

Overall, if you’re seeking a fun, educational, and scenic introduction to Canada’s eastern provinces, this tour delivers. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors who want a guided, worry-free experience with plenty of opportunities to see the country’s best sights.