6 VIA Rail trips from Toronto to go on for an incredible weekend getaway this summer
Pack your bags!
A small town in Ontario. Right: An Ontario beach.
You don't need a car in order to enjoy an incredible weekend getaway from Toronto this summer. VIA Rail offers trips to so many dreamy destinations where you can easily spend a weekend or longer.
From enchanting beach towns to historic cities, these VIA Rail destinations offer quaint streets, lounging on sandy shores and more for an idyllic vacay.
Here are 6 VIA Rail trips to take from Toronto this summer if you're dreaming of a weekend getaway — no car needed.
Guelph
Price: $48 + round trip
What to do: Located just an hour away from Toronto by train, Guelph is a fun and convenient spot for a weekend getaway. The city is home to a historic downtown brimming with local shops and restaurants. During the summer, the Main Street comes alive with twinkling patios and music.
You'll want to take a walk down to The Boathouse, where you can enjoy an ice cream cone, paddle along the river or sip afternoon tea by the water.
You can also check out the Guelph Civic Museum, explore the Farmers' Market or catch a film at the Bookshelf.
Where to stay: There are a number of hotels and inns where you can book a stay in Guelph. If you're looking for a spot downtown, the Norfolk Guesthouse offers luxury accommodations in a historic home.
Where to eat: There are so many restaurants to enjoy in Guelph. One spot you don't want to miss out on is Bardō, formerly Earth to Table: Bread Bar. The fluffy pizzas, juicy burgers and cool cocktails will have you drooling.
Kingston
Price: $100 + round trip
What to do: You can take a trip to Ontario's "Limestone City" for a dreamy summer escape. It's a two and a half hour train ride away from Toronto, so it's a great spot for a quick weekend getaway.
The city is full of historic attractions, including Fort Henry, trolley tours and Penitentiary tours. There are also endless stores and cafes to check out along Princess Street. The waterfront is a gorgeous place to relax on a sunny afternoon.
Where to eat: Kingston is full of delicious restaurants to enjoy. For brunch, Pan Chancho Bakery & Café is the place to be. You can enjoy a range of delicious meals, including the iconic Weekender breakfast sandwich. Wooden Heads Gourmet Pizza is another spot to visit and you can fill up on wood-fired pies.
Where to stay: There are many historic inns in Kingston where you can have a unique stay, such as The Rosemount Inn, the Frontenac Club and the Secret Garden Inn.
Stratford
Price: $72 + round trip
What to do: There's nothing more charming than a weekend away in Stratford. The enchanting city is known for its European vibes and theatre scene. The destination is located just over 2 hours from Toronto by VIA Rail.
You'll feel like you've been whisked away to jolly old England as you wander along the historic streets and explore the lush gardens. The Shakespearean Gardens feature beautiful flowers and river views.
Of course, you'll want to see a Stratford Festival show. The festival runs from April to October each year and features a variety of modern and classical plays.
You can also enjoy some self-guided tours through the area, such as the Chocolate Trail or Justin Bieber tour.
Where to eat: The Revival House is the place to go if you're looking for a unique meal. You can dig into Italian fare in a refurbished church.
Where to stay: Stratford his home to many historic inns and B&Bs. Places like the Stone Maiden Inn, Edison's Inn and Hotel Julie are beautiful places to spend a weekend.
Port Hope
Price: $40 + round trip
What to do: Located just an hour away from Toronto by train, Port Hope is a magical spot for a mini summer vacay. According to the website, the "historic downtown is filled to the brim with 19th century architecture and incredible stories," and is the "perfect one-stop shop for unique finds to take home."
You can spend the weekend checking out filming locations around the town, lounging on the beaches, browsing through the local shops and seeing a show at the Capitol Theatre.
Where to eat: For dinner, head to Trattoria Gusto, where you can enjoy all sorts of delicious Italian fare.
Where to stay: Port Hope has many nice spots to stay that are close to the downtown area. Accommodations include Hotel Carlyle & Restaurant and the Plantation House Bed & Breakfast.
Niagara Falls
Price: $52 + round trip
What to do: Niagara Falls is an iconic vacation destination in Ontario and it's just a 2 hour VIA Rail ride away from Toronto.
There are endless things to do in the city. Of course, you'll want to check out the iconic Falls. Whether you watch the illumination at night or get a closer look at the natural wonder by taking a boat cruise, you'll be captivated by the views.
Other attractions include the SkyWheel, Niagara Speedway, Clifton Hill, the White Water Walk and the Whirlpool Aero Car.
Where to eat: If you want to treat yourself, head to Prime Steakhouse. You can enjoy classic steakhouse dishes while gazing over the Falls. For something more relaxed, Weinkeller is a popular option.
Where to stay: The city has lots of hotels where you can book a stay, including Hilton Niagara Falls which boasts incredible views of this natural wonder.
Cobourg
Price: $50 + round trip
What to do: Known for its blue-water beaches and stunning shoreline, Cobourg offers tons of coastal charm and is a beautiful place for a weekend getaway.
You can take a one-hour VIA Rail train ride to reach this small beach town.
During the summer months, the Cobourg Beach is the place to be. You'll discover soft sandy shores and sparkling waters perfect for taking a dip.
According to the website, "you will swear you're sitting somewhere ocean-side in the Caribbean" as you relax on the white sand shores.
You can spend the weekend exploring the old-world downtown and strolling along the charming streets lined with local shops and eateries.
Where to eat: For breakfast, you can fill up on pancakes at the Buttermilk Cafe. Another delicious spot to check out is Cucina Urbana Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar.
Where to stay: There are a number of hotels, inns and B&Bs in Cobourg. The Lakehurst Estate is an enchanting spot to book a stay and it will transport you back in time.
Experience Cobourg websiteBefore 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.