Double Decker Night Tour

If you’re thinking about exploring Toronto after sunset, the Double Decker Night Tour offers a lively way to see the city’s illuminated sights from an open-air bus. While not a perfect experience, it has enough charm and spectacular views to make it worth considering for those who want a quick, guided look at Toronto’s iconic landmarks by night.

What we like about this tour is its guaranteed upper deck seating, so you’ll be comfortably perched to snap photos and enjoy the skyline. Plus, the live commentary provides some context about the city’s history and culture, which adds a layer of interest. On the downside, the shorter duration—around 60 minutes, according to some reviews—is a bit less than what you might expect from the advertised 90-minute experience, which could leave some travelers wanting more.

This tour is best suited for visitors who appreciate stunning city views, enjoy a bit of guided narration, and want to experience Toronto’s most famous sights without a lengthy commitment. If you’re on a time crunch or want a relaxed way to get your bearings after dark, it could be a good pick. But for those seeking an in-depth or comprehensive night tour, other options might be more satisfying.

Key Points

• Great for panoramic views of Toronto’s skyline at night.
• Upper deck guaranteed seating ensures a prime spot for photos and viewing.
• The duration may be shorter than advertised—around 60 minutes instead of 90.
• The live commentary adds context but is only in English.
• Tour passes through several key neighborhoods and landmarks, offering a well-rounded glimpse of the city.
• The price is around $37 per person, which is reasonable for a guided night experience.

A Detailed Look at the Double Decker Night Tour

Introduction to the Tour Experience

This double-decker night tour promises to illuminate Toronto’s most iconic landmarks under the night sky, all from the comfort of an open-top bus. With guaranteed upper deck seating, you’ll be assured of unobstructed views, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the city lights. The inclusion of live commentary provides useful insights into Toronto’s neighborhoods and history, making it more than just a sightseeing ride.

The tour lasts approximately 75 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic, and takes you through areas known for their lively nightlife, historic buildings, and modern skyscrapers. It’s a relaxed way to experience the city after dark, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a guided overview rather than wandering on your own.

What Makes this Tour Stand Out

The strength of this tour lies in the visual appeal—Toronto’s skyline at night is striking, and you’ll love the way the city’s landmarks light up against the dark sky. Some particular highlights include the CN Tower, the City Hall, and the Toronto Sign, which all look particularly impressive in the evening glow.

Another appealing feature is the itinerary that covers a broad swath of the city, from historic districts to bustling entertainment areas. It’s a curated way to get a quick introduction to Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods, from the Colorful District to the Financial District with its shining skyscrapers, and even the vibrant Broadway-like entertainment zones.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour makes stops at several key locations, each offering a different flavor of Toronto:

• Vibrant Neighborhoods: The tour begins in an area where nightlife and community pride come together, giving you a taste of Toronto’s lively spirit. This district is full of energy and colorful sights.

• Ontario’s Legislative Buildings: The green space around the historic legislature offers a sense of Toronto’s political history amid lush surroundings, great for taking photos.

• Cultural Hubs: You’ll pass through areas known for authentic eats and lantern-lit streets, perfect for soaking in the city’s diverse cultural fabric. This part may be particularly charming at night.

• Architectural Highlights: The tour features Frank Gehry’s stunning design illuminated at night, giving a glimpse into Toronto’s modern architectural scene.

• City Hall & Toronto Sign: The iconic City Hall, with its distinctive curves, and the glowing Toronto Sign make for great photo ops.

• Nightlife and Entertainment: The route passes through streets bustling with Broadway-style shows, concerts, and nightlife, illustrating Toronto’s reputation as a city that never sleeps.

• Financial and Historic Districts: The shining skyscrapers and historic buildings reveal Toronto’s blend of old and new.

• Markets and Landmarks: The city’s famous market and unique wedge-shaped Flatiron Building are also part of the route. These spots showcase Toronto’s local flavor and architectural diversity.

• Longest Street & Shopping: The tour includes a stretch along the city’s busiest shopping street, alive with neon lights and shops, capturing the city’s energetic vibe.

What to Expect During the Tour

Expect to be on a comfortable double-decker bus, with most of the journey on the upper open deck, weather permitting. The guided commentary is delivered live, providing quick snippets about each landmark, though some travelers have noted that explanations can occasionally be “full of nonsense,” and the commentary is only in English.

You might find that the duration of about 60 minutes feels a bit rushed, especially if you’re hoping to linger at the sights and take photos. The traffic in Toronto can also influence timing, so be prepared for some variability.

Authentic Traveler Feedback

One traveler, Joaquim_L, expressed disappointment, noting that “it does not last 90 minutes as stated in the ad, it only lasted 60 minutes,” and mentioned that the explanations felt “full of nonsense.” Such feedback highlights that some visitors may wish for a longer, more informative experience.

On the flip side, many appreciate the stunning views and the fact that the upper deck guarantees a great vantage point. The price point of $37 is reasonable considering the guided element and the views offered, but it’s good to keep expectations aligned with the tour’s brief duration.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early to secure the upper deck seats, as they are guaranteed but in high demand.
• Dress warmly, especially if visiting in cooler months, as the open-top deck offers little protection from wind.
• Bring a camera or smartphone with a good zoom to capture Toronto’s illuminated skyline.
• Be aware that the commentary is only in English, which might matter to multilingual groups.
• Since the tour lasts about an hour, plan your evening around it — it pairs well with dinner afterward in one of the lively districts.

Is it Worth the Price?

At roughly $37 per person, this tour offers a reasonably priced way to get a quick, guided introduction to Toronto’s night sights. The stunning views alone make it worthwhile for photography enthusiasts. However, given the slightly shorter duration and some comments about “nonsense explanations,” it’s best suited for travelers looking for a light, scenic overview rather than detailed historical insights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This night tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a visual summary of Toronto’s highlights without committing to a lengthy or expensive experience. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy photo opportunities and prefer a guided ride over wandering the city on their own.

If you’re traveling with a group or family, the guaranteed upper deck seats and lively atmosphere can make for a memorable evening. But if you’re after an in-depth, educational experience, other tours might better serve your needs.

Final Thoughts

The Double Decker Night Tour offers a fun, visual introduction to Toronto’s most famous sights, especially if you’re eager to see the illuminated city skyline from a comfortable vantage point. The stunning views and lively neighborhoods make it a good option for those short on time or seeking a relaxed sightseeing experience.

The main caveats are the shorter-than-advertised duration and some mixed reviews about the commentary. Still, the chance to see Toronto’s skyline glow from an open-air bus and enjoy its vibrant streets makes this tour a memorable, if not comprehensive, night outing.

If your goal is to get a quick, scenic overview with easy logistics, this tour might just fit the bill. Just be sure to bring your camera, dress warmly, and go in with the right expectations about its length and depth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does the tour last?
While advertised as 90 minutes, some travelers report it only lasts about 60 minutes, depending on traffic. The actual duration can vary.

What is included in the tour?
You get guaranteed seating on the upper level, the double-decker bus ride, and live commentary in English.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Sankofa Square, located at 1 Dundas St E, Toronto, and returns there at the end of the tour.

Is the commentary available in languages other than English?
No, the commentary is only in English.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs about $37.03 per person, which is reasonable considering the guided experience and scenic views.

Can I cancel the tour if I change my plans?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it accessible for many. However, the open-air experience may be less comfortable in bad weather or cold temperatures.

Are there any additional costs?
Gratuities are optional and not included in the price.

In summary, the Double Decker Night Tour is a straightforward, affordable way to glimpse Toronto’s skyline and neighborhoods at night. While it may not satisfy travelers craving a lengthy, in-depth tour, it’s perfect for a quick, scenic overview that captures the city’s vibrant essence. Just remember to manage expectations about duration and commentary quality, and you’ll likely enjoy a memorable glimpse of Toronto in its best light.