From beach towns to historic cities, you can discover some incredible places this summer, no car needed.
Here are nine quick VIA Rail trips from Toronto to take this summer for under $100.
Toronto to Gananoque
Price: $80 + roundtrip
Why You Need To Go: If you're looking for small town charm, water views and historic sights, Gananoque is the place to be.
The waterfront village is a two and a half hour train ride from Toronto, making it a great spot for a weekend getaway.
Nestled in the 1000 Islands, the town offers scenic nature trails, unique artisan shops and galleries, walking tours, water sports, beaches and more.
You can enjoy a show at the Thousand Islands Playhouse or explore the nearby attractions like Boldt Castle.
Gananoque website
Toronto to Stratford
Price: $70 + round trip
Why You Need To Go: You can take a mini trip to Europe by hopping on a train to this charming destination near Toronto. The trip takes just over two hours and you'll be immersed in old-world vibes as soon as you arrive.
From strolling through the scenic parks and gardens to dining at the drool-worthy restaurants and exploring food trails, there's no shortage of things to do.
You don't want to miss out on a trip to the Stratford Festival to enjoy the theatre scene that the town is known for.
Visit Stratford website
Toronto to Guelph
Price: $46 + round trip
Why You Need To Go: This beautiful city is just an hour away from Toronto by train and it's a fun spot to visit for a day or longer.
The downtown is brimming with local shops, thrift stores, cafes and restaurants. There are many patios where you can relax with a cold drink and meal.
You can wander through the parks, shop at the local markets, visit the Guelph Civic Museum or have some fun at a board game cafe.
You can also paddle your way along the Speed River and indulge in an ice cream cone or two for a dreamy summer experience.
Visit Guelph website
Toronto to Cobourg
Price: $44 + round trip
Why You Need To Go: Who's ready for a beach day? This cute small town is just an hour away from Toronto by train and it features a heavenly white sand beach.
Cobourg is known for its sparking waters and sandy shores and it's a dreamy place to spend a summer day. You can soak up some sun as you take in the lake views.
You won't want to miss out on the local shops and restaurants or the self-guided tours which take you to unique stops around the town.
You can also take a trip back in time at The Sifton-Cook Heritage Centre which features historic buildings and exhibits.
Experience Cobourg website
Toronto to Niagara Falls
Price: $50 + round trip
Why You Need To Go: This two-hour train ride from Toronto takes you to one of Canada's most iconic natural wonders. You can spend a day in Niagara Falls soaking up the views and enjoying the many attractions.
The area comes alive in the summer and there's no shortage of things to do.
From riding a boat into the mists of the waterfall to zip lining and journeying behind the falls, the area boasts tons of excitement.
You can also head to Clifton Hill to enjoy attractions like the Skywheel and the Niagara Speedway, as well as fun houses and haunted houses.
There are many restaurants to enjoy around the Falls, as well as hotels if you're planning an overnight getaway.
Niagara Falls website
Toronto to Kingston
Price: $96 + round trip
Why You Need To Go: Dubbed the "Limestone City," Kingston is a great spot to visit during the summer months. You can take a two and a half hour train ride from Toronto to reach this historic destination.
Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Kingston is full of old-world charm and attractions.
You can explore the many local shops, restaurants and cafes in the downtown core and stop by the charming Kingston Public Market.
Some popular activities include the Kingston Trolley Tours, Kingston Penitentiary, Kingston 1000 Island Cruises and the Kingston Haunted Walk.
You can also hop on a ferry and explore the nearby Wolfe Island for some extra adventure.
Visit Kingston website
Toronto to Oakville
Price: $40 + round trip
Why You Need To Go: This train trip from Toronto takes just 20 minutes and you'll be immersed in small-town charm as soon as you arrive.
From wandering through the charming downtown to indulging in drool-worthy dishes at the restaurants and taking scenic strolls along the waterfront, Oakville has so much to enjoy.
There are lots of boutiques and shops offering everything from home decor to fashion and jewelry so you can spend a day doing some shopping.
For history enthusiasts, Oakville has a number of local museums and exhibits scattered throughout the town, as well as art galleries and cultural events to check out.
Visit Oakville website
Toronto to Port Hope
Price: $40 + round trip
Why You Need To Go: Just an hour away from Toronto, you can discover a quaint historic small town that makes for a dreamy summer day trip.
The area is home to a "gorgeous sand beach" as described on its website, and you'll also find 19th-century architecture that will take you back in time.
During the summer months, you can relax on the sandy shores and enjoy activities like paddleboarding and more.
The downtown features quaint cafes and cute local shops scattered throughout the streets so you can do some shopping and indulge in delicious dishes.
Visit Port Hope website
Toronto to Belleville
Price: $55 + round trip
Why You Need To Go: This lakeside city is located just under two hours from Toronto and it's a gorgeous place to explore.
The area is full of historic buildings and old-world charm, as well as shops, restaurants and more to enjoy.
You'll want to pack some comfy shoes, as there are many waterfront trails to explore for some scenic views.
The Glanmore National Historic Site is another spot to check out. The old-world museum will whisk you back in time.
Discover Belleville website
Whether you're staying for a day or longer, enjoy these charming summer destinations.
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.
Grounds of Cruickston Park.
Guest house at Cruickston Park.
A greenhouse at Cruickston Park.
UpNord Airbnb.
Bedroom in the Airbnb.
Airbnb sitting room.
Airbnb bathroom.
Airbnb hot tub.
