Toronto, Niagra Falls & Niagra on the Lake

Emma Savage on 31 May 2012
Toronto is Canada's largest city and is a fabulous holiday destination. It's home to some iconic attractions and rivals New York for the sheer amount of shopping on offer.

There are three main 'areas' to the city - Yorkville (home to the trendy boutiques and shops), Dundas Square area (the shopping and entertainment district including the famous Eaton Centre) and the Harbourfront from where you can take a relaxing cruise or jump on a ferry across to the Toronto Islands. Here, you can also find a number of bars and restaurants as well as the Distillery District.

Whilst the city is large, it is very easy and straightforward to get around. There are trams and buses as well as an underground subway system. A day ticket which gives you access to all modes of transport costs around $10. You can also walk around the city safely, even at night which is something quite unique for such a big place.

Toronto has an amazing underground city of shops, restaurants and bars which are connected to office blocks, the subway system and attractions by the PATH. The underground city enables visitors and residents to get from one part of the city to another without having to surface and face the rain or snow.

Niagra Falls is situated around 1 hour 40 minutes from Toronto and is a must see during your visit to Canada. The Falls are lit up each night and if you are in town on Friday and Sunday nights at 10pm then look out for an amazing FREE firework display over the Falls. A truly stunning spectacle. There is a wide range of accommodation at Niagra Falls, from budget to deluxe all with varying proximity to the Falls themselves.

Niagra on the Lake is a beautiful little area which encompasses a pretty town complete with boutique shops and high quality restaurants as well as a number of vineyards and other attractions in its vicinity. This resort would be an ideal place to spend a few days relaxing - it's only 30 minutes from Niagra Falls so ideal if you prefer to be in a quieter location as you can take a day trip to Niagra Falls from here.

Some of the must see attractions in Toronto, Niagra Falls & Niagra on the Lake include: 1. The CN Tower, Toronto - thrilling to see the city skyline from the highest point in the city, If you're feeling brave, try the new 'Edge Walk'. Wonderful views and a revolving restaurant serves up great food for lunch and dinner. Book in advance if you want a table here. 2. St Lawrence Market, Toronto - take a food tour around this famous market with Bruce Bell on Saturdays at 10am and sample some of the best local food in the area. You'll also get to visit the Farmers Market as part of your tour. 3. Niagra Falls helicopter ride - a stunning and memorable way to get a real sense of perspective 4. Maid of the Mist boat trip - get so close to Niagra Falls you could touch them! 5. Chateau de Charmes - go wine tasting and learn all about Canadian wine and in particular, the unique ice wine of the region. Many of the hotels and restaurants in the area stock wine from this vineyard so you'll be able to continue your tasting throughout your holiday! 6. Go shopping for unique and extra special presents at Niagra on the Lake. It's where Torontonians come to do their Christmas shopping!