Essence of Eastern Canada

Welcome to the world’s most multiculturally diverse city, Toronto. Known to locals as the ‘Six’, Canada’s hipster enclave and largest city is all about unique neighbourhoods, fusion food, fascinating museums, vintage shopping and a healthy obsession with all things hockey. At the centre of it all is the city’s icon, the CN Tower, its 1814 feet (553 m) spire dominating the landscape. After settling in to your hotel, you can wander around the district’s open-air markets which will no doubt get tummies rumbling. For dinner why not head to near-by Kensington Market, arguably the most diverse of all the city’s neighbourhoods where the idea of fusion food is taken to all new heights.

Pack your sense of adventure this morning as you’re off to visit Niagara Falls! The biggest (and loudest) falls in North America, an incredible 750,000 gallons (2,850,000 l) of water thunder into the gorge below every second, creating a natural phenomenon many have dubbed the 8th Wonder of the World. We’ll be getting you up close and personal on a cruise to Horseshoe Falls, allowing you to see both the Canadian and American sides. Remember that raincoat? Now’s the time to use it. Back in Toronto later, the rest of the day is yours to do as you please. Maybe head to Queen West to explore the neighbourhood’s impressive collection of art galleries and design studios, or take advantage of our CN Tower Optional Experience to test your head for heights.

Leaving Toronto behind this morning, kick back and enjoy the gorgeous drive alongside Lake Ontario, one of the five Great Lakes of North America, as you make your way to Kingston. Known as the ‘Limestone City’ thanks to its grand 19th century buildings built from its namesake limestone, it’s no wonder this gorgeous city was (briefly) the site of the Canadian capital. Get your bearings and then wake up your taste buds at Campbell’s Orchard in Prince Edward County today for a farm tour and a cider tasting. This cider is made from a blend of apples picked from the trees of the Campbell’s Orchard and produced right on site, fermented using traditional methods. Next, take to the water and opt for a Thousand Islands cruise, or spend the day exploring the quaint city your way. The day isn’t over yet and our next destination awaits, north of the Ottawa River in Ottawa’s neighbor charming Gatineau.   New Optional Thousand Islands Cruise:  If you’ve ever dreamt of escaping to live on a gorgeous remote island, this cruise will show you the way. Hop on board to explore the over 1,800 islands dotting the St. Lawrence River, many of which are home to elaborate mansions, fairytale castles, lighthouses and a realm of wildlife. Don’t forget your camera!

Start your morning in Ottawa with a sightseeing tour of the city’s icons: Sussex Drive, Royal Canadian Mint, National Art Gallery, Supreme Court of Canada, War Memorial, National Art Center; War Museum and National Archives and Library, the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica (the oldest church in Ottawa), and even a stop outside the home of the Canadian Prime Minister and Governor General’s Homes (Be sure to wave hello!). After your orientation, head to Byward Market’s vibrant outdoor/indoor market open for a quick bite and free time. Your afternoon is your choice of activities. As an option, experience culture with an authentic Pow-wow dance performance with music by First Nations members at the Museum of History. In a fascinating interactive beading workshop, you’ll learn about the Storyboot Project, a partnership between Manitoba Mukluks and our TreadRight Foundation—a fun and feel-good way to support the revival of these traditional arts. Or, explore Ottawa’s neighbourhood food markets, discover local produce and dishes, and meet area chefs and food artisans on a food walking tour. Optional C’est Bon food walking tour copy:  One of the best ways to learn about a city is to explore its neighbourhood food markets, discover local produce and dishes, and meet area chefs and food artisans. This gourmet walking tour is an ideal introduction to the national capital region’s vibrant food scene. Meet the bright lights and find the hidden treasures with the help of expert and insightful guides at five different restaurants. Come taste Ottawa with us!

Ready for some romance? We’ve got good news – timeless, elegant Québec City is up next. Exuding class, grandeur and a distinctly European feel, Québec City is almost a country within a country; 95% of the population speak French, and around 75% are native Francophiles. Arriving here, we’ll be listening out for the collective sighs of appreciation as you set eyes on the narrow cobblestone streets and pretty parks for the first time. This afternoon, why not continue your Québec love affair with our Optional Experience that will get you out of town to admire the towering Montmorency Falls. Standing at 83 metres these falls are actually higher than Niagara Falls, forming the mouth of the Montmorency River. Travelling back to Québec City, you’ll then be treated to a 3-course dinner in the historic district of Vieux-Québec, tucking in to a menu of freshly sourced, organic ingredients.

After no doubt grabbing a taste of France with a croissant and coffee, you’ll be heading out to join a Local Specialist this morning for a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Town. Checking out sites including The Citadel, the historically significant Plains of Abraham, and the famous turrets of the Chateau Frontenac, the world’s most photographed hotel, prepare to fall even more in love with this city. This afternoon, why not continue your Québec adventure with our Optional Experience.

Get ready for Montreal sightseeing! We hope you’re hungry this morning as for breakfast you’ll be heading to the iconic Erabliere le Chemin du Roy, a traditional Cabane à Sucre (sugar shack) to learn how maple syrup, one of Canada’s most famous exports, is made. You’ll then make the short drive to Montreal, Canada’s cultural capital where festivals, art, and a certain joie de vivre are all part of the daily make up. On arrival you’ll meet up with a Local Specialist for a city tour of the UNESCO designated ‘City of Design’, admiring how old European style architecture sits naturally beside beautiful contemporary masterpieces in this popular destination city. This afternoon choose Montreal your way. You could choose a hands-on activity: learn the art of bagel making or get the adrenaline pumping with some curling or explore the city on your own. This evening with free time to explore, you could head out for dinner with the group or take your pick of one of the cute terraced restaurants along the river. North Montreal is full of hip neighborhoods, beautiful parks, hidden alleyways, and vibrant street art. On this tour, visit the diverse Plateau, artsy Mile-End, leafy Outremont, traditional Little Italy, and edgy Mile-Ex districts. Discover Montreal off the beaten path as we ride parks, quiet streets, and laneways and get a big dose of the local lifestyle. Learn about Montrealers like Leonard Cohen & Arcade Fire and see how cultural communities bridge the French/English linguistic divide.