8 super romantic small towns in Ontario with cozy cafes and fairy tale charm
Plan a getaway with your favourite person!
A small town in Ontario.
Valentine's Day is just around the bend, and if you're looking for Hallmark-worthy charm, you'll want to plan a trip to some of these romantic small towns in Ontario.
Offering storybook streets, cozy cafés, and cute adventures, these villages will have you feeling like the main character of a romance film. Whether it's a day trip or weekend escape, you and your favourite person enjoy some major charm at these spots.
Here are eight romantic small towns across Ontario where you can wander hand in hand and make some magical memories together.
Paris
Why you need to go: Everyone knows Paris as the city of romance, and Ontario has its very own Paris, just a road trip away from Toronto.
It may not be France, but this quaint riverside town offers European vibes and historic streets brimming with charm. Known as the "Cobblestone Capital of Canada," it's a dreamy spot to explore with your favourite person.
You can wander through The Paris Wincey Mills Co. and look at goods from local vendors, visit the attractions, and take a self-guided tour around the old-world streets.
The town has several cafes where you can cozy up with a drink, such as the Dog-Eared Café, as well as romantic restaurants like Stillwaters Plate & Pour, perfect for date night.
Collingwood
Why you need to go: This waterfront small town is the ultimate couple's escape. Collingwood is an idyllic spot for relaxed afternoons, scenic strolls, and unique adventures together, no matter the season.
Its main street is lined with charming local shops where you can wander hand in hand, popping into boutiques filled with clothing, home decor and locally made treats.
There are many cute cafes to warm up in, such as Espresso Post, where you'll find a range of treats and speciality drinks.
When you're ready to keep the romance going, Blue Mountain Village is just a 10-minute drive away, serving up European-style vibes, festivals and sports, and outdoor activities to enjoy together.
Almonte
Why you need to go: If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you wandered into your own small-town love story, Ontario's "Hallmark Capital" is the place to be. The riverside town near Ottawa has a quiet, storybook feel and has even been compared to quaint fictional villages like Stars Hollow.
You can pop into the boutiques, grab some sweets at the chocolate shop, and sip hot cocoa as you wander along the historic streets.
You'll also want to stroll through the Mill of Kintail Conservation Area or follow the downtown Riverwalk, which offers romantic water views and natural surroundings.
Elora
Why you need to go: There's nothing more romantic than a trip to Ontario's "most beautiful village." This enchanting small town is just over an hour from Toronto, and it will have you feeling like you've stepped into a fairy tale.
It features old-world shops and hidden gem restaurants and cafes that have "romantic date" written all over them.
If you really want to treat yourselves, you can book an overnight stay at the Elora Mill, a luxurious hotel with a spa and restaurant. Or, if you're just visiting for the day, you could book a couple's massage and unwind together.
Port Perry
Why you need to go: For more Hallmark-worthy charm, head to this quaint small town just an hour from Toronto. This lakeside has starred in several Hallmark films, and will have you feeling like you stepped into a rom-com.
The historic main street is lined with endless shops, eateries, and more to keep you busy all afternoon.
You can pop into some of the restaurants and bakeries to share some delicious food with your favourite person.
To end the day, head to the scenic waterfront, where you can stroll hand-in-hand through the park and take in the views.
Huntsville
Why you need to go: Nestled in the heart of Muskoka, just over two hours from Toronto, Huntsville is the place to go for romance. It's home to quaint streets, breathtaking natural scenery, and endless outdoor adventures.
In winter, the town transforms into a snow-covered wonderland. Downtown, you can explore cozy cafes and charming shops. Arrowhead Provincial Park is a must, with its frosty forests and the famous 1.3 km Ice Skating Trail, where torches light the path on weekend evenings for an extra touch of magic.
For a nighttime stroll, the Forest of Light at Sandhill Nursery offers glowing installations that feel like stepping into another world.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Why you need to go: Niagara-on-the-Lake is a must-visit if you're in search of romantic vibes. According to Vintage Hotels, "romance, flavour, superior events and activities make Niagara the ultimate winter date night destination for discerning guests who are looking to cultivate beautiful, memorable experiences with their loved ones."
The town boasts several luxurious hotels as well as dreamy spas where you can get totally pampered. The Victorian-era downtown and quaint shops enhance the area's romantic feel.
The region is surrounded by wineries, and you can spend a day sipping in vineyards and enjoying candlelit dinners with your loved one.
Tourism Niagara-on-the-Lake Website
Stratford
Why You Need To Go: This little city has major small-town vibes, and it's a magical spot to visit with your loved one.
Perched on the shores of the Avon River, Stratford is brimming with European charm and a quaint downtown filled with warm cafes and shops.
To add some sweetness to your day, you can explore the Chocolate Trail, which takes you to "world-famous confectioners and bakers," according to the website.
Or, go on a coffee date at cozy cafes like The Livery Yard, The Ashborne Cafe, and Balzac's Stratford.
There are several romantic inns and boutique hotels to book if you're planning a longer getaway.
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.