From Toronto: 6-Day Eastern Canada Small-Group Tour

Travelers seeking a balanced mix of nature, history, and city life will find this 6-day small-group tour from Toronto a practical and engaging way to see some of Canada’s most iconic spots. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this trip offers a well-rounded look at Ontario and Quebec’s highlights—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we love about this experience? First, the way it combines major sights like Niagara Falls and Old Quebec with authentic local touches, like optional French dinners and scenic cruises. Second, the small-group format—limiting to 13 participants—ensures you’ll get personalized attention and the chance to make new travel friends.

One possible drawback? The itinerary is fairly packed, so if you prefer slow mornings or extensive free time, this might feel a little rushed. But for those eager to see a lot in a short trip, it hits the right notes.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, budget-friendly introduction to Eastern Canada, especially those looking for a mix of guided sightseeing with some optional activities to customize their experience.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary offers major attractions like Niagara Falls, Montreal, Quebec City, and Ottawa within 6 days.
• Small group size ensures a more personal, engaging experience.
• Inclusion of scenic cruises and optional activities add memorable moments.
• Comfortable hotel stays with breakfast included keep logistics simple.
• Cost-effective at $1,255 per person, with many included attractions.
• Ideal for travelers who enjoy a structured, yet flexible schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Overview of the Tour

This 6-day journey is designed for those who want to tick off some of Canada’s top sights without the stress of arranging transportation, accommodation, and tickets. For $1,255, you get a lot of value: five nights in well-rated hotels, guided tours of key cities, and several fascinating excursions. The small-group format, limited to 13 guests, strikes a great balance—small enough for personal attention but still lively enough to share the experience.

Day 1: Arrival in Toronto

The trip kicks off with an easy check-in at the Crowne Plaza Toronto Airport, located conveniently with a free 24-hour shuttle from Pearson International. This hotel is a practical choice, close to the airport and offering comfortable rooms to rest after your journey. The flexibility here is nice—guests can arrive anytime between 09:00 and 22:00, which helps accommodate different flight schedules.

Day 2: Niagara Falls Adventure

The highlight of many Canadian trips, Niagara Falls, is front and center today. The tour includes the Hornblower Niagara Cruise, the only official boat ride in Canada that gets you right into the mist of the falls—an experience that truly defines this natural wonder. You’ll also have the option to explore Journey Behind the Falls, where you can peer through tunnels and watch the water thunder down from behind the curtain of spray.

Other stops include the Niagara Power Plant, Niagara Whirlpool, and the Flower Clock, giving a bit of local charm and science behind the spectacle. The optional Niagara-on-the-Lake visit brings a touch of small-town elegance, with its historic streets and boutique shops. Some reviews mentioned that the Niagara Falls in-depth tour is a must-see, offering a thorough look at the falls’ power and surrounding sights.

Day 3: Thousand Islands & Montreal

Traveling east, the day includes a cruise through the Thousand Islands, a scenic stretch of the St. Lawrence River dotted with over 1,800 islands. While optional, many find this cruise a peaceful break from more bustling stops—offering views of castles, cottages, and wildlife.

Following this, the tour continues to Montreal, a city that blends the old-world European charm with vibrant modern culture. The 45-minute city tour touches on key neighborhoods, and you’ll enjoy a traditional French dinner, optional but recommended, for a taste of local cuisine.

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Day 4: Quebec City Exploration

Today is all about history and architecture. The Old Quebec City Tour includes visits to Place d’Armes, the iconic Château Frontenac, and the outside of the Parliament Building. The cobblestone streets of Little Champlain evoke a European atmosphere, perfect for wandering.

Optional visits include Montmorency Falls, which towers 275 feet above the river, and a cable car ride that offers spectacular panoramic views. If you love historic settings, the Notre-Dame Basilica and the city walls will not disappoint.

Day 5: Mont Tremblant & Ottawa

The journey takes you further into Quebec’s scenic heart with a drive to Mont Tremblant, a charming mountain village known for its outdoor activities and alpine architecture. This offers a breath of fresh mountain air and picturesque scenery.

Later, the tour continues to Ottawa, Canada’s capital, where you can marvel at Parliament Hill and its impressive Gothic Revival architecture. The extended stay in Montreal on this day helps reduce the usual rush, allowing you to appreciate the landscapes and local life.

Day 6: Toronto & Departure

The final day focuses on Toronto itself. The Movie & TV Tour takes you through filming hotspots like University of Toronto and Toronto City Hall, leveraging the city’s film-friendly vibe. You’ll also visit the Distillery District—a restored historic area filled with art galleries, cafes, and boutiques—and, optionally, the CN Tower for panoramic city views.

The optional Toronto Cruise is a relaxing way to see the skyline from the water, ending your trip with a memorable scene of the city from the harbor.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price, the tour covers a lot. You get five nights in comfortable hotels with breakfast—convenient for starting your days energized. The professional transportation and guide are key for a smooth experience, especially since the itinerary involves multiple cities and scenic stops.

Included attractions like the Niagara in-depth tour, Old Quebec City, and the Toronto Movie & TV Tour come with tickets, saving you both money and hassle. Optional activities like the Thousand Islands cruise, Montmorency Falls, cable car, and Toronto harbor tour are available, which many guests opt for to enhance their experience.

However, meals beyond breakfast, personal expenses, and any optional admission not purchased beforehand are extra. Some reviews note that the optional tours are well worth considering, especially the boat rides and panoramic excursions at Montmorency Falls.

Transportation and Group Size

Using a professional driver and guide, you’ll travel comfortably between destinations, typically in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle suited for small groups. The limited group size of 13 means you’ll get more personalized narrative and better chances to ask questions.

Hotels

Staying close to airports and city centers improves convenience. The Crowne Plaza in Toronto offers a restful start, while the Holiday Inn properties in Saint-Hyacinthe provide a balance of comfort and practicality. The Hampton Inn & Suites in Toronto on Day 5 offers a higher-end option for a relaxing night before heading home.

How to Make the Most of This Tour

To maximize your experience, bring comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking cobblestone streets and scenic parks. Don’t forget warm clothing and rain gear to be ready for unpredictable weather, especially near waterfalls and lakes. A hat, sunscreen, and water will keep you comfortable during outdoor activities.

While the itinerary is quite full, it’s designed for those who want to see a lot in a short time. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, consider which optional activities you’d like to add.

What to Keep in Mind

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to cobblestone streets and some uneven surfaces. Also, since it’s a guided group, individual preferences for free time are limited—if you like to explore independently for hours, you might find this format a bit structured.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers strong value for travelers eager to see Eastern Canada’s highlights without the hassle of planning each detail. The combination of guided sightseeing, scenic cruises, and small-group intimacy makes for a memorable trip that balances comfort with authentic experiences.

It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors, couples, or small groups who want to pack in a lot of sights without feeling rushed. The inclusion of major attractions like Niagara Falls and Old Quebec, plus optional scenic excursions, makes this a well-rounded introduction to the region.

While it’s fast-paced, the tour’s efficient itinerary and knowledgeable guides help ensure you’ll come away with a good understanding of what makes this part of Canada so special. If you value convenience, guided insights, and a bit of adventure, this trip hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes a paid airport pick-up from Toronto Pearson International Airport, with a flexible window from 09:00 to 22:00.

Are hotel stays included?
Yes, you get five nights in hotels like the Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn Express, with breakfasts included, making mornings easier.

Can I customize the optional activities?
Optional excursions like the Thousand Islands cruise, Montmorency Falls cable car, and Toronto harbor tour are available for additional tickets, which you may choose to add or skip.

How many people are in the group?
The small-group format limits participation to 13 guests, providing a more personal experience.

Is there free time for exploring on my own?
While the itinerary is quite full, some stops like Niagara-on-the-Lake and Old Quebec offer opportunities for independent exploration.

What kind of transportation is used?
A professional driver guides your group in a comfortable vehicle suited for small groups, ensuring smooth and scenic travel.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, rain gear, sunscreen, water, and cash for personal expenses and optional purchases.

This comprehensive tour balances structured sightseeing with authentic moments, making it a smart choice for those eager to experience Canada’s eastern gems without the stress of organizing every detail themselves. Perfect for travelers who want a lively, engaging, and value-packed introduction to some of the country’s most beautiful and historic sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby