Toronto’s best city tours fall into several practical categories, each offering distinct advantages. The most rewarding way to experience this Canadian metropolis is through small-group walking tours – they’re intimate, informative, and let you really connect with local stories. For efficiency and comfort, the hop-on hop-off bus tours work beautifully, especially for first-timers wanting to hit all the main sights.
From years of experience exploring this city, I’ve found two standouts: the downtown walking tours (they nail the perfect mix of history and current culture) and the underground PATH system tours (a fascinating look at Toronto’s unique indoor city). For visitors seeking something special, the small luxury group tours accessing exclusive spots are worth the extra cost.
Let’s explore the top-rated Toronto tours worth your time and money:
Good To Know
- Small-group walking tours offer an educational and personalized experience, with a maximum of 10 participants and a cost of $37.85 per person.
- Hop-on hop-off bus tours provide flexibility, with over 20 key attraction stops and audio guides available in multiple languages, though customer feedback suggests issues with wait times.
- Private guided tours offer a tailored exploration with a certified driver/guide, including pickup, lunch, and gratuities, at a cost of $436.70 per group up to 3 people.
- Luxury small-group tours cover highlights like the CN Tower and Casa Loma, with a 94% recommendation rate and options for private customization.
- Unique and interactive tours, such as the PATH walking tour, self-guided audio tours, and scavenger hunts, range from $10.19 to €19.40 and accommodate various traveler needs.
Show Me the City! Toronto Walking Tour
This small-group walking tour of downtown Toronto offers a rundown of the city’s rich history, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems.
Led by knowledgeable and engaging guides like Nick and Ken, the 3-hour excursion takes participants through the heart of the city, exploring the PATH network and sharing captivating stories.
With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour provides an intimate and interactive experience, allowing for group camaraderie and personalized attention.
Consistently praised for its educational value and pacing, the tour is an excellent introduction for first-time visitors, who can discover Toronto’s unique charm and culture.
Priced at $37.85 per person, this walking tour is a must-do activity for those seeking an immersive and insightful exploration of the dynamic city.
Read our full review: Show Me the City! Toronto Walking Tour Review
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City Sightseeing Toronto Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
The City Sightseeing Toronto Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers visitors a convenient and flexible way to explore the city’s top attractions.
With over 20 stops, including the iconic CN Tower and Hockey Hall of Fame, the tour provides access to Toronto’s must-see sights.
Travelers can enjoy the flexibility of hopping on and off the bus at their leisure, with buses arriving every 30-45 minutes.
The tour includes an audio guide in 9 languages and live commentary in English, ensuring an informative experience.
While some customers have reported issues with long wait times and tour meeting points, City Sightseeing is committed to addressing feedback and improving its services.
Read our full review: City Sightseeing Toronto Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Review
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Private Toronto Guided City Tour
For travelers seeking a more personalized and immersive experience, the Private Toronto Guided City Tour offers a tailored exploration of the city’s highlights.
With a rating of 3.7 from 6 reviews, this tour provides a certified driver/guide, gratuities, and lunch, all for $436.70 per group (up to 3 people).
The tour starts at 9 AM with pickup at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, and returns to the same location.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and service animals are allowed.
Feedback highlights the pleasant and helpful service, though some issues have been reported, which Viator has addressed with refunds when necessary.
Read our full review: Private Toronto Guided City Tour Review
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Luxury Small-Group Toronto City Tour
Frequently, travelers seeking a more comprehensive and exclusive exploration of Toronto’s highlights opt for the Luxury Small-Group Toronto City Tour.
This 6-hour guided excursion takes up to 16 guests to the city’s iconic sites, from the CN Tower to the Hockey Hall of Fame, as well as lesser-known gems in neighborhoods like Kensington Market and Chinatown.
Admission to the CN Tower and Casa Loma is included, and travelers enjoy personalized attention, professional guides, and comfortable transportation.
With a Badge of Excellence and 94% recommendation rate, this tour provides an in-depth look at Toronto for first-time visitors.
Customization options are available for private tours, making the experience even more tailored to individual interests.
Read our full review: Luxury Small-Group Toronto City Tour Review
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PATH – A Walking Tour of Torontos Underground City
Offering a unique perspective on Toronto’s urban landscape, the PATH – A Walking Tour of Toronto’s Underground City takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the city’s renowned subterranean network.
The 2-kilometer tour, starting at Union Station and ending at Toronto City Hall, provides a fascinating glimpse into the history, architecture, and day-to-day activities of this underground world.
Highly praised by travelers for its knowledgeable and engaging guides, the tour is a must-do for anyone interested in Toronto’s culture and history.
With a 5-star rating and free cancellation, it’s an accessible and affordable way to discover the hidden depths of this vibrant Canadian city.
Read our full review: PATH – A Walking Tour of Torontos Underground City Review
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Torontos Financial District and City Halls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Dive into the heart of Toronto’s financial district and civic centers on this self-guided audio tour. With lifetime access, you can explore at your own pace using the VoiceMap app.
The tour covers key landmarks like Oliver & Bonacini Café Grill and Nathan Phillips Square. While not wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly.
Though the GPS-based audio can be tricky, you can manually control playback. Keep in mind the tour doesn’t include tickets or transportation.
To get started, download the app, bring your smartphone and headphones, and follow the detailed starting instructions.
Whether you’re a local or visitor, this tour offers a unique perspective on Toronto’s iconic financial and governmental hubs.
Read our full review: Torontos Financial District and City Halls: A Self-Guided Audio Tour Review
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Small-Group 2-Hour Tour of Toronto’s Underground City
Discover the hidden underground world of Toronto on this immersive small-group tour.
Explore the city’s extensive PATH system, a labyrinth of tunnels and walkways connecting downtown buildings. Led by an expert guide, you’ll learn about the history and evolution of this unique underground network as you weave through the bustling crowds.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience and have the opportunity to sample local food and drinks along the way.
The tour starts at Union Station and ends at Toronto City Hall, providing a well-rounded understanding of the city’s urban landscape.
Priced at just $26.13 per person, this 2-hour adventure is a must-do for anyone seeking to uncover Toronto’s hidden gems.
Read our full review: Small-Group 2-Hour Tour of Toronto’s Underground City Review
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Toronto City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks
Bringing a playful twist to exploring Toronto’s urban landscape, the Toronto City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks immerses participants in a thrilling two-hour interactive adventure.
Priced at just $10.19 per person, the private tour offers a chance to discover the city’s hidden gems through a remote guide and activity-owned smartphones.
Covering the downtown core, the scavenger hunt is accessible to most travelers, including those with strollers, and provides GST-inclusive pricing.
Promising a memorable experience, the excursion operates daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether seeking an offbeat way to explore Toronto or a fun team-building activity, this scavenger hunt delivers an engaging and affordable urban adventure.
Read our full review: Toronto City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Wacky Walks Review
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Georgetown City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Zombie Scavengers
The Georgetown City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Zombie Scavengers takes participants on a thrilling one-hour self-guided walking activity with a remote interactive survival guide.
Located in Toronto, Canada, the experience includes all activities, use of a smartphone, private transportation, and GST. The meeting point is Georgetown Market Place, and the tour returns to the same location.
Offered Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM, the excursion is available for most travelers. Booking includes confirmation, a private group experience, and flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies.
Priced from €19.40 per group of up to 10 people, this unique city tour is a must-try for adventurous visitors to Toronto.
Read our full review: Georgetown City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Zombie Scavengers Review
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Private 4-Hour City Tour of Toronto With Driver and Guide – Hotel Pick up
Thoroughly explore Toronto’s diverse landmarks and neighborhoods on this private 4-hour city tour.
Operated by Tour Travel & More, this personalized experience starts with a convenient hotel pickup and is guided by a knowledgeable local.
Enjoy the comfort of a private vehicle as you discover the city’s top attractions, including entrance fees covered.
With gratuities also included, you can relax and soak in the architectural wonders and vibrant culture.
The tour’s flexible nature ensures you maximize your time, and the 24/7 Guardian Angel Service provides added peace of mind.
At $1,069.41 per person, this comprehensive tour offers exceptional value for a truly memorable Toronto adventure.
Read our full review: Private 4-Hour City Tour of Toronto With Driver and Guide – Hotel Pick up Review
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New York City Guided Bus Tour
This guided bus excursion allows travelers to experience the iconic sights of New York City in comfort and convenience.
With a maximum of 50 travelers, the air-conditioned bus tour includes all fees, taxes, and gratuities, as well as three meals – breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The tour starts and ends at a select meeting point, making it easy for participants to join and depart.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions or young children, most travelers can enjoy this comprehensive New York City experience.
Confirmation and start time details are provided upon booking, ensuring a smooth and seamless journey.
Read our full review: New York City Guided Bus Tour Review
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The Sum Up
Toronto offers a variety of engaging city tours, from walking tours that showcase the city’s landmarks to hop-on hop-off bus tours providing a rundown. Whether you’re interested in a private guided tour or a more adventurous scavenger hunt, there’s something to suit every traveler’s preferences. These tours provide an opportunity to explore Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods, underground PATH system, and rich history, making it easy to discover the best of what the city has to offer.