You can ride a VIA Rail train to historic hidden gems and sandy beaches, or take a bus to turquoise swimming holes and tiny villages. The best part is, you don't have to stress about parking.
Whether you're craving a beach day, nature trails or local shops, these small towns have you covered.
Here are nine small towns near Toronto you can get to without a car.
Gananoque
Price: $80 + round trip
Address: Gananoque, ON
Why You Need To Go: Nestled within the 1000 Islands, this dreamy waterfront town is an idyllic destination for summer retreats. It's a 3-hour train ride from Toronto on VIA Rail, so you could enjoy a weekend getaway at this enchanting spot.
According to the town's website, you can enjoy "breathtaking views from all angles and discover the warmth and hospitality of the people that call this place home" during your visit.
The town boasts historic streets lined with quaint shops and a range of outdoor activities, including beaches, hiking trails and more.
You can catch a show at the 1000 Islands Playhouse or go on one of the scenic cruises that take you through the surrounding area.
Gananoque website
Port Hope
Price: $40 roundtrip
Address: Port Hope, ON
Why You Need To Go: Located just an hour away from Toronto by VIA Rail, this historic small town is brimming with charm.
The area is home to a "gorgeous sand beach," according to the website, and is "filled to the brim with 19th century architecture and incredible stories."
You can enjoy the sandy beaches, paddle boarding adventures, and more while visiting this spot. From checking out a bee farm to wandering through a nearly abandoned village, tons of unique adventures await.
Port Hope Tourism website
Cobourg
Price: $48 + round trip
Address: Cobourg, ON
Why You Need To Go: Perched beside the lake, this quaint small town is just an hour ride away from Toronto on VIA Rail, making it a convenient spot for a day trip.
The main highlight of the town is the beach, where you can lounge on the sandy white shores, take in the views of the glistening water and explore the picturesque boardwalk that runs along the shoreline.
The beach is complete with old-school lifeguard stations that will take you back in time.
The historic downtown area is full of quaint buildings and an array of charming shops and eateries to enjoy.
Experience Cobourg Website
Stratford
Price: $70 + round trip
Address: Stratford, ON
Why You Need To Go: Hop on board a VIA Rail train and take a little trip to Stratford, a city brimming with small-town charm.
Located a two-hour train ride away from Toronto, Stratford boasts a dreamy Main Street dotted with shops, cafes, delicious restaurants and more.
You don't want to miss out on a theatrical performance, as Stratford is known for its incredible theatre scene.
If you have a sweet tooth, you can take a trip along the Chocolate Trail, which lets you indulge in treats from bakers and confectioners.
Visit Stratford website
Uxbridge
Price: $10.61 one-way PRESTO fare
Address: Uxbridge, ON
Why You Need To Go: Dubbed the "trail capital of Canada," Uxbridge is a scenic spot to explore and features gorgeous hikes and more.
Just an hour and a half journey from Toronto via GO Transit, this charming town will whisk you back in time with its historic buildings and local shops.
For fans of Anne of Green Gables, a stroll along the Lucy Maud Montgomery Trail is a must-do. You'll learn all about the author's life in the Uxbridge region.
Other fun activities include exploring the breathtaking trails, browsing through the local boutiques and induldging in a meal at one of the town's drool-worthy restaurants.
Discover Uxbridge website
Tobermory
Price: $149 roundtrip
Address: Tobermory, ON
Why you need to go: You can take a bus to Tobermory, "a lakeside town surrounded by crystal clear water, the majestic Niagara Escarpment," according to the Tobermory website. It's also home to Flowerpot Island and two national parks.
The beach town is known for its gorgeous turquoise waters and surrounding natural wonders.
You can book a ride on Parkbus to reach this destination. The trip takes four to five hours, so it's not recommended for a day trip.
From exploring Flowerpot Island to visiting the iconic Grotto, there's no shortage of things to do.
Parkbus website
Unionville
Price: $7.91 one-way PRESTO fare
Address: Unionville, ON
Why You Need To Go: Situated on the outskirts of Toronto in Markham, Unionville is a cute small town dotted with quaint local shops and eateries.
You can take GO Transit from Union Station to reach this destination. The trip takes about an hour and involves one transfer.
While exploring Unionville, you can stop by the boutique shops, indulge in brunch towers and more at the restaurants and enjoy a range of events taking place throughout the year, such as markets, festivals, and seasonal attractions.
For fans of the show Gilmore Girls, you'll want to go on a self-guided tour around the area and discover some of the locations featured in the pilot episode of the iconic series.
Main Street Unionville website
Elora
Price: $65 roundtrip
Address: Elora, ON
Why You Need To Go: This charming town is known as "Ontario's most beautiful village," according to the Elora BIA.
With its beautiful historical streets, limestone buildings, charming shops and cozy cafes, it's a dreamy spot for a day trip.
You can book a ride on Parkbus, which takes you from Toronto to both the Elora Quarry and the town of Elora in an hour and a half.
Nestled on the edge of the Elora Gorge, the town offers gorgeous views of the Grand River as well as scenic hikes and a turquoise swimming hole.
Parkbus website
Thornbury
Price: $25.99 one-way
Address: Thornbury, ON
Why You Need To Go: Who doesn't want to enjoy some small town charm and crystal waters? The town of Thornbury is located a three hours and 20 minutes away with a ride from Flixbus.
You can enjoy quaint streets, outdoor patios, a picturesque pier and more.
Flixbus website
Whether you take a bus or train, enjoy a trip to these charming small towns near Toronto without a car!
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 article has been updated since it was originally published on May 10, 2024.
