From Montreal: Toronto, Niagara Falls & 1000 Islands Tour

Planning a trip that covers some of Ontario’s most iconic sights in just two days might seem ambitious—yet this tour manages to pack in the highlights with impressive organization and a friendly touch. While it’s certainly a long ride—over 15 hours in total—you’re rewarded with stunning views, memorable experiences, and the chance to see Niagara Falls, Thousand Islands, and Toronto in one trip.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the combination of diverse scenery, from the tranquil waters of the 1000 Islands to the roaring power of Niagara Falls, all balanced with time to explore vibrant Toronto. The guides, notably Eddy and Christian, earn high praise for their multilingual skills and friendly approach, making the journey easier and more engaging.

One thing to keep in mind is the lengthy bus rides, which might feel tiring for some travelers. The included hotel stay near Niagara Falls helps break up the trip, but be prepared for substantial hours on the road. This tour suits those who love packed itineraries, scenic cruising, and the thrill of seeing multiple attractions without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Who will love this tour? If you’re after a comprehensive, value-packed trip that hits all the major Ontario highlights and don’t mind long travel days, this option is a smart choice. It’s especially ideal for first-time visitors wanting a taste of the region’s best without the stress of organizing logistics.

Good To Know

• Diverse highlights: From the Thousand Islands boat cruise to Niagara Falls and Toronto’s skyline, each experience offers a different flavor of Ontario.
• Experienced guides: Eddy and Christian are noted for their friendly, multilingual support and safe driving.
• Good value: The tour includes accommodation, transportation, and major attraction admissions, providing a cohesive package.
• Long but rewarding: Expect over 15 hours of bus travel, balanced with scenic stops and memorable sights.
• Flexible options: Depending on the season, the tour offers different activities, like the Niagara City Cruise or Journey Behind the Falls.
• Authentic experiences: Travelers love the way the guides mix informative commentary with fun stories, making the long drive enjoyable.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect at Each Stop

Day 1: From Montreal to the Thousand Islands and Niagara Falls

Your adventure kicks off early from Montreal, with a comfortable roundtrip bus ride heading southeast. The first major highlight is the scenic cruise through the Thousand Islands, a stretch of more than 1,800 islands dotting the St. Lawrence River. During the May to October season, this cruise offers a peaceful, picture-perfect view of the gilded age mansions (some with historic significance and opulent architecture), as well as the beautiful natural surroundings. Reviewers mention the cruise as “relaxing,” giving a calm counterpoint to the busy day ahead.

Next, the trip shifts focus to Niagara Falls, where you’ll experience its grandeur from multiple angles. The tour includes a Hornblower Cruise, which is often described as feeling like being right in the falls’ mist—an exhilarating, wet-up-close encounter with one of nature’s most impressive spectacles. If you’re visiting outside peak season (November to April), the alternative is the Journey Behind the Falls tunnel, giving you a behind-the-scenes view of the waterfalls’ roaring base from viewing portals.

Those who’ve taken the tour appreciate the evening illumination of the falls, which makes for a stunning photo opportunity. The hotel stay within walking distance allows you to explore the vibrant nightlife and see the falls lit up in different colors, sometimes with fireworks or laser shows, adding an extra layer of magic.

Day 2: Toronto’s Top Sights

Early the next morning, the bus heads into Toronto, Canada’s largest city. Here, you’ll have several hours to explore at your own pace, guided by knowledgeable guides who speak multiple languages. The CN Tower is a must-see, offering panoramic views of the city skyline and Lake Ontario—imagine looking out from 553 meters up, with clear days providing spectacular photo opportunities.

Another favorite stop is Ripley’s Aquarium, where you’ll find over 16,000 marine species in beautifully designed exhibits. Reviewers commend the aquarium as “the largest in Canada” and appreciate the variety of marine life, making it a fun, educational experience for all ages.

For those interested in free time, the itinerary is flexible enough to allow exploring Downtown Toronto’s markets, historic Old City, and scenic waterfront areas. The guides do a great job providing context and tips, making sure you get the most out of your brief visit.

Transportation and Comfort

The roundtrip transport from Montreal is by modern, air-conditioned bus, with some reviews mentioning only two charging spots for devices. The group size tends to be manageable, ensuring everyone gets attention from guides and enough time at each stop. The hotel accommodation is reviewed as comfortable, although some suggest rooms could benefit from renovations, but beds are generally praised for their comfort.

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Pricing and Value

Considering the inclusion of major attractions, a comfortable hotel, and roundtrip transportation, this tour offers good value for a comprehensive Ontario experience. While additional costs apply for attractions like the CN Tower or Ripley’s Aquarium if you opt to visit them separately, the main experiences are covered in the package, making it easier to budget.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many travelers highlighted the expertise of guides, especially Eddy, who is praised for his explanations in multiple languages. A reviewer noted, “Eddy was such a nice and patient guide, speaking three languages so everyone could understand,” emphasizing how language skills made the trip accessible.

Some pointed out the long bus hours—over 15 hours in total—but many agreed it’s “worth it” because of the variety of sights packed into the two days. One traveler from France said, “The trip is intense, but the quality and price make it worthwhile,” which speaks to the overall value.

Food options during the trip were mostly not included, so you might want to plan for snacks or a meal during the free time, especially since one review mentioned the buffet was “expensive with little time to eat.” The hotel breakfast was appreciated as a quiet start to the day.

The Ups and Downs

While most reviews are positive, some mention the bus seats as being uncomfortable for long hours, which is worth considering if you have mobility issues or dislike lengthy rides. Still, travelers agree the scenic stops and guided commentary make it all manageable.

The Bottom Line

This tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Ontario, combining scenic boat cruises, awe-inspiring waterfalls, and a lively city experience—all in just two days. It’s clear that the organizers prioritize making the trip smooth and enjoyable with knowledgeable guides, comfortable transport, and well-chosen stops.

It’s best suited for travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of planning every detail, and who are happy to spend significant time on a bus in exchange for seeing multiple highlights. The inclusion of a hotel stay within walking distance of Niagara Falls helps break up the journey, giving you some downtime amid the adventure.

If you crave a value-rich, fast-paced trip that hits all the major Ontario highlights and don’t mind the long travel hours, this tour is a fantastic option. The combination of scenic boat rides, panoramic city views, and natural wonder makes it an experience worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel accommodation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes one night at a hotel within walking distance of Niagara Falls, providing a convenient base to explore the falls at night.

What attractions are included in the package?
The tour covers a Niagara Falls boat cruise (or Journey Behind the Falls in winter), a cruise through the 1000 Islands (May–Oct), or the Niagara SkyWheel (Nov–Apr). Major attractions like the CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium are optional add-ons.

Can I request pickup from my Montreal hotel?
Yes, complimentary courtesy pickup is available from hotels within 5 km of the departure point at 68 Boul. René-Lévesque O, Montreal. Be ready in the lobby 15 minutes early.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
The May to October season is ideal for the boat cruises and the Thousand Islands tour. If visiting in winter, the activities change to the Journey Behind the Falls and the Niagara SkyWheel.

How long are the bus rides?
Expect over 15 hours of travel across the two days, divided between scenic stops and city exploration. It’s a long day, but many find it manageable thanks to the guides and scenery.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or dine at stops along the way. The hotel breakfast is provided after the first night.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, and any personal essentials. Remember to bring your phone charger for the bus’s limited charging spots.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, families can enjoy the trip, especially the boat cruise and aquarium, but note the long hours on the bus which might be tiring for younger children.

This 2-day adventure from Montreal balances scenic beauty, exciting attractions, and city exploration, making it a solid choice for those eager to see Ontario’s top sights without the hassle of planning. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, you’ll come away with vivid memories and plenty of photos, ready to share your stories.

You can check if your dates are available here: