9 enchanting Ontario towns that feel like a European vacation without leaving the province
No passport needed.
A small town in Ontario.
If you're dreaming of a trip to Europe but don't want to blow your budget on a pricey flight, these quaint Ontario small towns are dreamy alternatives. With old-world streets and historic charm, you can imagine you're on a vacation abroad at these spots.
You'll find hidden gem cafes, cute boutiques, and picturesque views at these enchanting towns around the province.
Here are nine small towns in Ontario that feel like a European getaway.
Perth
Why you need to go: You can take a mini trip to Scotland without a pricey plane ticket. Perth is a picturesque village with a rich history and European charm, making it a dreamy spot to escape to.
Not far from Ottawa, this charming town with Scottish heritage offers serious Edinburgh vibes.
You can visit some of the village's attractions, such as the Perth Museum and Mammoth Cheese, or explore the scenery in Stewart Park, which boasts dreamy gardens and fairytale bridges.
The town offers restaurants, cozy cafes and more, as well as canal-side patios where you can dine with a view.
Elora
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking for European vibes in Ontario, Elora is the place to be. Nestled along a gorge, the quaint town is known as "Ontario's most beautiful village" and is brimming with old-world charm.
Here you'll find cozy nooks, cobblestone alleys and quaint riverside shops that are straight off a European postcard.
You can sip afternoon tea, grab brunch on a sunny patio and stroll along historic streets for a charming escape without a plane ticket.
During the summer, you can head to the Elora Quarry, where you'll find turquoise waters and limestone cliffs.
Paris
Why You Need To Go: You don’t need to hop on a plane to France to experience a hint of Paris — Ontario has its own charming version, tucked along the banks of the Grand River.
Known as the "Cobblestone Capital of Canada," this Ontario town is dotted with quaint buildings and neighbourhoods that belong in Europe.
You can explore the cozy shops, wander through The Paris Wincey Mills Co. and sip beverages at the quaint cafes.
There are lots of outdoor adventures to enjoy, from tubing down the Grand River or hiking along the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail.
Stratford
Why You Need To Go: Technically a city, this enchanting spot still serves up cozy small-town charm and is well worth the trip.
Stratford has English village vibes, making it an idyllic spot to explore without getting on a plane. The local shops and charming cafes add to its cozy appeal.
The city is known for its Stratford Festival, which takes place from April to October every year and features Shakespearean and contemporary performances.
Other highlights of Stratford include its lush gardens, riverside paths, museums and food trails.
Galt
Address: Galt, ON
Why You Need To Go: With historic charm and European vibes, this enchanting destination near Toronto is a dreamy spot to explore. You'll be whisked away to Scotland as you stroll along the historic streets and gaze at the old-world architecture.
You can wander along the beautiful Grand River, which boasts beautiful views of the surrounding stone buildings. Other attractions include the Cambridge Sculpture Garden, Old Post Office and Cambridge Centre for the Arts.
Almonte
Address: Almonte, ON
Why You Need To Go: This quaint gem can be found along the shores of the Mississippi River near Ottawa and is a dreamy spot to explore.
The fairytale streets are brimming with quaint shops and eateries, adding to the town's European vibes.
The Mill of Kintail Conservation Area is a beautiful place for a stroll, as is the downtown Riverwalk.
Almonte is known as the "Christmas Capital of Ontario" and transforms into a dreamy Hallmark paradise during the holiday season.
Bayfield
Why You Need To Go: This hidden gem beach town is located on the shores of Lake Huron and offers old-world charm straight off a European postcard.
The Village of Bayfield will transport you back in time with its quaint streets and cozy restaurants.
According to its website, it's a "stress-free countryside road trip where you find one-of-a-kind boutique shopping, unique restaurants, wineries, breweries, hiking, accommodations, and more."
Aside from the storybook downtown, the town boasts three scenic beaches where you can soak up some sun.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Why You Need To Go: Just an hour and a half from Toronto, you can discover an enchanting village that looks like it was plucked from the European countryside.
Niagara-on-the-Lake has Victorian-era streets that will whisk you away to another land. You can explore cozy boutiques and quaint eateries while imagining you're on a European getaway.
The town is surrounded by lush vineyards and dreamy wineries where you can sip the day away like you're in France. There are a number of quaint inns and hotels to complete your getaway.
Unionville
Why You Need To Go: You don't have to go far from Toronto to find European charm. Unionville is a quaint community located less than an hour away from the city, and it's a dreamy spot for a day trip.
This charming town, seen in the Gilmore Girls pilot, feels like it was pulled straight from Stars Hollow.
You can enjoy an ice cream cone as you stroll along the storybook Main Street, peeking into local shops and exploring the nearby trails.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
- This cozy town in Ontario has Scottish vibes and locals say it feels like a trip to Europe ›
- This Ontario destination with cozy cafes and river views is like a slice of Europe, locals say - Narcity ›
- This romantic Ontario town with a 'European feel' is among the 'prettiest' in Canada - Narcity ›
- 6 stunning Ontario destinations that are giving major European summer energy - Narcity ›