5 Day Small Group Toronto Montreal Ottawa Quebec and Niagara

Explore Eastern Canada in Five Days with a Small Group Tour

This 5-day small group tour offers an engaging way to see some of Canada’s most iconic cities and natural wonders. With a price of $1,261.84 per person, it covers major destinations like Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City, Ottawa, and Niagara Falls, providing a blend of cultural sights, historic landmarks, and scenic landscapes. The tour features 4 nights of hotel accommodations, guided city tours, and optional excursions such as boat rides and cable cars.

What makes this trip stand out is its comprehensive itinerary and experienced guides, including Jay Tour and Nelson Chen, who earn praise for their professionalism, helpfulness, and friendliness. The group size is capped at 13 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. The tour is suitable for those who want a well-structured, immersive look at Eastern Canada without the hassle of planning each detail.

One aspect to consider is that many attractions and optional activities, such as cruises and tower visits, are priced separately, so budget accordingly. This tour also requires some physical activity, such as walking through cobblestone streets and outdoor sights, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to explore Canada’s highlights comfortably and efficiently.

Key Points

• Includes 4 nights of hotel stays in key cities across Eastern Canada
• Price of $1,261.84 per person provides guided tours and scenic stops
• Flexible optional activities: boat cruises, tower visits, cable cars, and French dinners
• Ideal for small groups of up to 13 travelers for a personalized experience
• Highlights include: Niagara Falls, Old Quebec, Mont-Tremblant, Parliament Hill, and Toronto’s city sights
• Tour duration: just around 5 days, perfect for a quick yet thorough exploration

Starting the Adventure in Toronto and the Thousand Islands

The tour begins early in Toronto, departing at 6:30 am, and heads toward the Thousand Islands region on the St. Lawrence River. This area is known for its 1,864 islands, offering stunning views from the boat. An optional cruise lasting 75 minutes provides an up-close look at the islands and the river landscape, with the admission included if you select that option.

Travelers visit Kingston for a quick 30-minute stop, giving a glimpse of this historic city. The cruise experience is a key highlight, offering scenic photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. If the cruise isn’t available, an alternative visit to the Montreal Biodome and Olympic Tower takes its place, showcasing natural science exhibits and Olympic history.

Exploring Montreal’s French Charm and Historic Sites

In Montreal, the tour focuses on its European flair and iconic landmarks. A guided 45-minute tour includes Dorchester Square, the Mary Queen of the World Cathedral, and the Saint-Catherine Street shopping district. These spots offer a mix of history, architecture, and lively city life.

The Old Montreal district is a focal point, with its cobblestone streets and European-style cafés. Visitors see landmarks like the Château Frontenac and the Notre-Dame Basilica during a 60-minute tour. An optional French dinner enhances the experience, allowing guests to enjoy authentic cuisine in a historic setting.

Quebec City’s European Atmosphere and Waterfalls

The second day takes travelers to Quebec City, a place brimming with French feeling. The Old Quebec tour, lasting 60 minutes, highlights Place d’Armes, the Château Frontenac, the Parliament Building, and the Notre-Dame Basilica. The neighborhood’s European architecture and cobblestone streets make it feel like a slice of Europe in North America.

The group also visits Little Champlain Street for about an hour, browsing shops and cafes. The Montmorency Falls are another popular stop, offering optional activities like a cable car ride or simply admiring the waterfalls that are taller than Niagara’s. An additional French dinner is available, giving a taste of Quebec’s culinary scene.

Scenic Drives to Mont-Tremblant and Ottawa

The third day features visits to Mont-Tremblant, often called the “Little Banff of the East”, and Parliament Hill in Ottawa. At Mont-Tremblant, the group appreciates its European-style buildings and beautiful surroundings, especially during the fall when the maple leaves turn vibrant.

In Ottawa, the Parliament Hill stop lasts about 30 minutes and offers a view of the Canadian Parliament with its dramatic architecture. This official residence of Canada’s government provides photo opportunities and a sense of national pride.

Toronto’s Film & TV and Harbour Sights

Returning to Toronto on the fourth day, the tour offers a film and TV-themed experience. Visitors explore iconic filming locations like the University of Toronto, featured in movies such as “The Hulk” and “Resident Evil”. The Toronto City Hall and the Yonge Street stretch are also part of the guided 2.5-hour tour.

Optional activities include visiting the CN Tower (around 60 minutes) and enjoying a harbor cruise aboard a Great Lakes steamship replica for 60 minutes. The Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada serves as a backup attraction if the cruise isn’t available, housing over 16,000 aquatic creatures.

Niagara Falls and Its Iconic Attractions

The final day is dedicated to Niagara Falls, with the “Voyage to the Falls” boat tour included as an optional activity. This 60-minute cruise takes visitors close to the Horseshoe Falls, letting them feel the spray and power of this natural spectacle.

The stop at Clifton Hill offers 1.5 hours of sightseeing and entertainment. Other options include Journey Behind the Falls, where travelers descend 125 feet into tunnels behind the waterfall, and the Niagara Power Plant tour, which lasts 2 hours and visits the hydroelectric station, Whirlpool State Park, and Flower Clock.

Practical Details and Included Amenities

This 5-day tour provides 4 nights of hotel accommodations and includes guided transportation with professional drivers and guides. The tour covers many key attractions, with several optional activities that require separate payment, such as the CN Tower, boat cruises, and cable car rides.

The package also covers gratuities for guides and drivers, and optional breakfasts are available. The tour is designed for a small group of up to 13 travelers, which allows for more personalized attention and flexibility during stops.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is well-suited for travelers who want a rundown of Eastern Canada without the stress of planning multiple trips. It offers a good mix of urban exploration, historic sites, and natural scenery, with enough flexibility for optional activities. The small group format ensures a comfortable and engaging experience.

However, guests should be prepared for some walking and outdoor exposure, especially at natural attractions like Montmorency Falls and Niagara. The itinerary’s pacing is brisk but allows time to enjoy key highlights, making it ideal for those with limited time who want a focused yet varied tour.

Final Thoughts on the 5-Day Canadian Highlights Tour

This small group tour offers a practical, well-organized way to explore some of Canada’s most beloved cities and scenic spots. The professional guides, detailed itinerary, and inclusion of major attractions make it a compelling option for travelers eager to see Toronto, Montreal, Quebec, Ottawa, and Niagara Falls within five days.

While many activities are optional and priced separately, the core experience covers top sights and provides excellent value for the price. The limited group size enhances comfort and allows for more personalized service. If you’re interested in a balanced mix of city tours, natural wonders, and cultural experiences, this tour is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price includes 4 nights of hotel accommodations, guided transport, the Old Quebec City tour, the Niagara in-depth tour, and several scenic stops. Many optional activities such as boat cruises, tower visits, and cable cars are extra.

How many travelers are in each group?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 13 travelers, ensuring a small group experience that allows for personalized interactions and flexibility during sightseeing.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included except for optional dinners, like the French dinner in Montreal and Quebec. Breakfasts are available as optional add-ons.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour allows free cancellation if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than that will not be refunded.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and cash or cards for meals and optional activities are recommended. No parking is provided at the meeting point, and transportation to the start location is not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, provided children are over 6 years old and accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women under 24 weeks can also join.

What if attractions are closed?
If a scenic spot or attraction is closed, an alternative will be arranged, so the itinerary remains engaging and enjoyable.

How flexible is the schedule?
The tour operator may make adjustments for weather, traffic, or operational reasons, but overall it follows the outlined itinerary closely.

Can I join from different locations?
The tour starts in Toronto at 6:30 am and ends at a different location, with transportation details provided at booking.

Are tips included?
Tips for guides and drivers are not included but are always appreciated for good service.