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Summary

6 VIA Rail train rides from Toronto that take you to the most stunning getaway spots

No car needed!

Lead Writer, Travel

You don't need a car in order to enjoy some enchanting destinations. These VIA Rail trips from Toronto take you to some incredible small towns and cities where you can explore old-world streets, picturesque waterfronts, and cozy cafes—all without the hassle of driving.

From European-like cities to sun-filled beach towns, these destinations are beautiful spots for a day trip or longer vacation.

Here are six VIA Rail train trips from Toronto that take you to stunning getaway spots.

Toronto to Stratford

Price: $72 + round trip

Distance from Toronto: 2 hours and 17 minutes

Why You Need To Go: Fancy a trip to London? This VIA Rail train ride from Toronto takes you to a picturesque city that feels like a little slice of England.

Nestled along the Avon River, Stratford offers a charming downtown with old-world streets, beautiful architecture and quaint boutiques.

The city is known for its theatre scene, and you can enjoy plays at the Stratford Festival from April to October.

There are tons of restaurants to enjoy, as well as cafes and chocolate shops where you can grab a treat. You'll also find lush gardens, riverside walks, museums, galleries and more in the city.

The train station is located downtown, so you don't need to go far to reach the attractions.

Visit Stratford Website

Toronto to Gananoque

Price: $82 + round trip

Distance from Toronto: 3 hours

Why You Need To Go: Located in the scenic 1000 Islands, this waterfront town is a beautiful place for a getaway.

According to the website, you can expect "breathtaking views from all angles and discover the warmth and hospitality of the people that call this place home."

This old-world town is brimming with historic streets, cute shops, and stunning scenery that will have you feeling like you're in another world.

There are lots of attractions to enjoy, from cruises to theatres and sun-filled beaches. The surrounding 1000 Islands area offers even more adventures, and you can explore castles, parks and more.

Gananoque Website

Toronto to Cobourg

Price: $42

Distance from Toronto: 1 hour and 10 minutes

Why You Need To Go: Dreaming of a beach escape? This lakeside small town feels like a tropical vacay and is just a short train ride away from Toronto.

The town boasts "unique architectural landmarks and great shopping, dining, galleries and theatre, a spectacular white sand beach and beautiful waterfront," according to the website.

During the summer, you can lounge on sandy shores, stroll along the boardwalk, and splash through the sparkling waves.

If it's too cold for a beach day, you can spend some time in the historic downtown, where you'll find many shops and eateries.

From self-guided tours to nature trails and more, this lakefront gem is a beautiful spot for a day trip or weekend getaway.

Experience Cobourg Website

Toronto to St. Marys

Price: $76 + round trip

Distance from Toronto: 2 hours and 40 minutes

Why You Need To Go: This quaint small town is perched along a scenic river and feels like a European village. It's known as the "Stonetown" due to its old-world architecture built with locally sourced limestone and it will sweep you back in time.

One of the biggest draws is the St. Marys Quarry, "Canada's largest outdoor freshwater swimming pool." This scenic swimming hole offers cliff jumping, a water trampoline, picnic areas and more to enjoy during the summer months.

The downtown is dotted with charming cafes, limestone architecture, and attractions like museums and markets.

The historic VIA station is located right downtown and is home to the Station Gallery where you can experience regional art.

St. Marys Website

Toronto to Port Hope

Price: $40 + round trip

Distance from Toronto: 1 hour and 8 minutes

Why You Need To Go: Located a short train ride from Toronto, Port Hope is a quaint small town that's overflowing with charm.

According to the website, the area is home to a "gorgeous sand beach" and is "filled to the brim with 19th-century architecture and incredible stories."

During the summer months, you can enjoy the picturesque shores and take a dip in the water, and when the weather cools down, you can cozy up in the quaint cafes along the main street.

The town features beautiful hiking trails, as well as attractions like self-guided tours of filming locations.

Visit Port Hope Website

Toronto to Montreal

Price: $110 + round trip

Distance from Toronto: 5 hours and 18 minutes

Why You Need To Go: If you're craving a getaway to France, this train trip from Toronto is a cheaper alternative to an overseas flight. It takes you to the "Paris of North America," where you can enjoy incredible attractions and European vibes.

Montreal is an incredible place for a getaway. From exploring Notre-Dame Basilica to hiking Mount Royal and visiting the Botanical Garden, there's no shortage of things to enjoy in the city.

If you really want to feel like you've been transported to Europe, Old Montreal is the place to be. The area has cobblestone streets and old-world buildings that are straight off a postcard.

Tourism Montreal Website

Whether you're looking for a short day trip or a longer getaway, these stunning destinations are just a train ride from Toronto and offer endless charm.

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.

  • Lead Writer

    Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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