Toronto, Niagara Falls & Thousand Islands VIP 2Day Trip

If you’re short on time but eager to see some of Canada’s most impressive sights, this 2-day guided trip from Montreal offers a well-rounded taste of Ontario’s true gems. While it’s tailored for travelers who want convenience—no car, no fuss—it also provides enough detail to give you authentic moments and memorable views.

What we love about this tour is how it combines stunning natural beauty with urban highlights, all in a manageable package. The cruise through the Thousand Islands showcases a landscape many travelers only see in pictures, while the Niagara Falls experience is simply unforgettable. Plus, the city tour of Toronto offers a glimpse into Canada’s largest metropolis.

One thing to consider: the itinerary is packed, which means you’ll need to keep a steady pace. Also, some attractions like the CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium aren’t included in the price, so you’ll want to budget a little extra. But overall, this tour suits those who want a convenient, well-organized introduction to Ontario without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines boat cruises, city tours, and iconic sights in two days
• Hassle-free logistics: Round-trip transportation from Montreal with hotel accommodation included
• Seasonal activities: Some experiences like the boat cruises are weather-dependent (May to October)
• Guided tours enhance the experience: Knowledgeable guides make the visits more engaging and informative
• Value for the price: For $334, you get a comprehensive snapshot of Ontario’s highlights
• Limitations: Extra costs for attractions not included in the package, like CN Tower and aquarium

Starting with the Thousand Islands: Beauty on the Water

Your adventure begins early in the morning with a 2.5-hour drive from Montreal to Ontario’s stunning Thousand Islands. This archipelago, straddling the US-Canada border, is famous for its picturesque landscapes and historic mansions. As part of the tour, you’ll hop aboard a cruise (May-October), which is arguably the highlight of this segment.

The boat ride offers an up-close view of the Gilded Age mansions that dot the islands, many built by wealthy American industrialists in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The reviews frequently highlight how beautiful and peaceful this scene is, with one traveler noting, “The Thousand Islands boat tour was fantastic,” emphasizing its visual appeal.

Since this cruise is seasonal, it’s best to check the dates if you’re visiting outside May-October. The boat tour is free as part of the package, but if you’re a history or architecture buff, you’ll appreciate the stories that guides share about the mansions and the region’s history.

Niagara Falls: A Natural Wonder

After a hearty lunch, the tour continues southward toward Niagara Falls, one of the most recognizable natural spectacles in the world. The falls are breathtaking from any angle, but the tour maximizes your experience with options like the Niagara SkyWheel and the Niagara City Cruises (May-October).

The SkyWheel offers a panoramic view of the falls, with climate-controlled gondolas that make the ride comfortable even on cooler days. The City Cruises, known as the “Hornblower” in the US, takes you close enough to feel the mist and hear the roar of the water — a dazzling experience that’s often called the “highlight” of the tour by travelers.

One reviewer mentions that “the boat ride into the falls was the highlight,” which shows how immersive this experience can be. Keep in mind, the boat cruise is seasonal, so if you’re visiting outside May-October, you might replace it with a visit behind the falls or another activity.

The tour also includes time to take in the spectacular views from the observation wheel, which is a smart addition given the stormy, thunderous beauty of the falls.

The Toronto Experience: From Skyline to Aquatic Life

On day two, after an early departure from Niagara, you’ll arrive in Toronto, Canada’s largest city. The city tour provides a snapshot of downtown life, with a visit to the iconic CN Tower. While the admission fee isn’t included, the views from the top are well worth the extra cost if you want to see Toronto spread out under your feet.

Following this, the tour visits Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, home to over 16,000 marine creatures and the longest shark tunnel in North America. This is a family-friendly highlight, though again, the entrance fee isn’t included, so budget accordingly.

Travelers frequently praise the professionalism of guides like Jacky and Caroline, noting how their friendly, knowledgeable commentary elevates the experience. The guided nature of the tour means you’re taken to key sights efficiently, ideal for travelers who prefer not to navigate cities on their own.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $334.04 per person covers a lot: round-trip transportation from Montreal, hotel accommodation for one night, and seasonal boat cruises on the Thousand Islands and Niagara Falls. The tour also includes pickup and drop-off from a Montreal hotel, making it especially convenient.

However, some activities—like the CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium—are not included, which travelers should keep in mind when budgeting extra. The reviews mention that the admission fee for these attractions can be around $100, so factor that into your plans.

The tour is operated by Concord Tours and Travel, with a capacity of up to 50 travelers, ensuring a lively but manageable group size. The start time at 7:00 am means an early start, but it’s necessary to fit everything into two days.

The Experience: What You’ll Really Get

From the transportation perspective, traveling comfortably in a group means you avoid the hassles of driving or navigating public transit. The coach is likely air-conditioned, and the schedule is tight but well-paced. The seasonal activities give you the best chance to experience the cruises when the weather allows, which most travelers find rewarding.

The guides seem to be a major highlight—many reviews mention their friendliness, language skills, and knowledge. This personal touch makes the experience more engaging and informative, especially if you’re interested in local stories and background.

The hotel accommodation is based on four people sharing a room, which helps keep costs down, but travelers who prefer more privacy might find this less ideal. Given the packed itinerary, you’ll spend most evenings recovering at the hotel rather than sightseeing locally.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This VIP 2-day trip is perfect for time-starved travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Ontario’s highlights without the planning hassle. It suits families, couples, or solo travelers eager for natural and urban sights in one organized package. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and a busy schedule, you’ll find this tour efficient and rewarding.

It’s also an excellent option for first-timers to Ontario or those who prefer guided experiences with the comfort of transportation and logistics taken care of. But if you’re a traveler who prefers to explore at a slow pace and spend more time in each location, you might find this tour somewhat rushed.

The Sum Up

This guided tour offers a balanced combination of natural beauty, iconic landmarks, and city scenes, all wrapped into a manageable two days. It’s a great way to tick off major Ontario sights, especially if you don’t want the hassle of planning each detail and navigating unfamiliar roads. The seasonal boat cruises add a special touch, making the experience more immersive and memorable.

For travelers who value expert guides, convenience, and a well-structured schedule, this trip offers excellent value at around $334. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy a lively group setting and want to see as much as possible in a short time. While extra costs for attractions like the CN Tower and aquarium exist, most find the overall experience well worth it.

If your goal is to get a taste of Ontario’s stunning landscapes and vibrant cities—without overextending your trip—this tour will serve you well. It’s a solid choice for a first visit, families, or anyone eager to get the most out of a weekend getaway.

FAQ

Is transportation provided to and from Montreal?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation from Montreal, making it very convenient for travelers staying in the city.

Are hotel stays included?
Yes, the tour provides overnight accommodation for one night near Niagara Falls, with the cost based on four people sharing a room.

What activities are seasonal?
The cruise on the Thousand Islands and the Niagara City Cruises are available from May to October. Outside this window, the itinerary is adjusted, possibly replacing these experiences.

Are entrance fees to attractions included?
No, the admission to attractions like the CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium are not included and will incur extra costs, approximately $100 in total.

How large are the groups?
The tour can accommodate up to 50 travelers, ensuring a lively but organized atmosphere.

What time does the tour start and end?
It begins at 7:00 am at 68 Boul. René-Lévesque O, Montreal, and ends back at that same point after two days of sightseeing.

Is this suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews mention families enjoying the trip, especially with the boat cruises and aquarium highlights.

Do I need travel insurance?
The tour does not include travel insurance, so it’s advisable to arrange your own if you wish to be covered for unforeseen events.

Embark on this quick but comprehensive journey through Ontario’s most beloved sights—an excellent way to maximize a short visit and create lasting memories.