Ontario Travel Guide

Travel to Ontario, where breathtaking landscapes meet iconic cities. From Ottawa and its Parliament to Toronto and the CN Tower and on to the majestic Niagara Falls, Ontario amazes at every turn. Explore Georgian Bay, Algonquin Park, the Bruce Peninsula, local vineyards, and Prince Edward County for an unforgettable escape into the heart of Canada.

Useful information

Official language(s)

The official language of Ontario is English. However, French is recognized as an official language within certain government institutions and public services serving Francophone communities.

Flight duration

Direct flight: 40 minutes to 1h30, depending on the destination
Connecting flight: 3h to 7h (depending on connection times)

Time zone difference

Ontario time zone: UTC-5
0h ahead of Quebec (EST)
0h ahead of Quebec (EDT)

Currency

Canadian dollar (CAD).

Credit cads (Visa, Mastercard, etc.) are widely accepted. Carrying cash is recommended for local markets, street vendors and tipping.

Tips

Tipping is customary in Western Canada and is an important part of service workers’ income. In restaurants, 15%–20% of the total bill is standard. In bars, $1–$2 per drink is sufficient. For taxis and tour guides, 10%–15% is common.

Safety

Ontario is a safe destination. Travellers are advised to follow standard safety precautions in major cities.

  • Diverse natural landscapes: dense forests, vast lakes, and spectacular waterfalls
  • Unique culinary experiences, including vineyards and world-renowned ice wines
  • An extensive network of scenic waterways and rivers ideal for cruises and water sports
  • A harmonious blend of wide-open wilderness and vibrant urban centres

Keep in mind

  • The vast size of the province can mean long travel distances between major attractions.
  • Expect a lot of mosquitoes and insects during the summer, particularly around lakes and wooded areas.
  • Winters are harsh and often very cold. It is important to pack appropriate clothing.
Top pick

“I fell in love with Lake Superior shorelines. I never expected to discover such breathtaking landscapes along this winding road. I even had the chance to spot a black bear! The many lakeside stops are perfect for a picnic, with welcoming rest areas and trails that lead to stunning hikes.”

Emilie VieiraTravel Counsellor, Pointe-Claire Travel Centre

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Roasted Peaches, Almond Granola and Yogurt

The Niagara Peninsula region in Southern Ontario enjoys a microclimate perfectly suited for growing grapevines and stone fruits. Juicy peaches grow in abundance there and inspired this recipe for roasted peaches, yogurt, and granola. A summer breakfast you absolutely must try!

Good to know

  • Some popular regions like Muskoka and the 1000 Islands can be very busy during peak season. It is recommended to book accommodations and activities in advance.
  • The Rideau Canal in Ottawa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a unique attraction that transforms into the world’s largest skating rink in winter.
  • Toronto is a multicultural city where more than 160 languages are spoken. It offers exceptional cultural richness to the explorer.

Frequently asked questions