Essence of Eastern Canada

Welcome to the world's most multiculturally diverse city, Toronto. Known to locals as the 'Six', Canada's hipster enclave and largest city is all about unique neighbourhoods, fusion food, fascinat-ing museums, vintage shopping and a healthy obsession with all things hockey. At the centre of it all is the city's icon, the CN Tower, its 553 metre spire dominating the landscape. After settling in to your hotel, you can wander around the district's open-air markets which will no doubt get tummies rumbling. For dinner why not head to near-by Kensington Market, arguably the most diverse of all the city's neighbourhoods where the idea of fusion food is taken to all new heights.

Pack your raincoats and your sense of adventure this morning as you're off to visit Niagara Falls! The biggest (and loudest) falls in North America, an incredible 750,000 gallons of water thunder into the gorge below every second, creating a natural phenomenon many have dubbed the 8th Wonder of the World. We'll be getting you up close and personal on a cruise to Horseshoe Falls, allowing you to see both the Canadian and American sides. Remember that raincoat? Now's the time to use it. Back in Toronto later, the rest of the day is yours to do as you please. Maybe head to Queen West to explore the neighbourhood's impressive collection of art galleries and design studios, or take advantage of our CN Tower Optional to test your head for heights.

Leaving Toronto behind this morning, enjoy the gorgeous drive alongside Lake Ontario, one of the five Great Lakes of North America, as you make your way to Kingston. Known as the 'Limestone City' thanks to its grand 19th century buildings built from - you guessed it - limestone, take in the sights before hopping on board a cruise to explore the utterly spellbinding Thousand Islands region. Over 1,800 islands are dotted throughout the St. Lawrence River, many of which are home to elab-orate mansions, fairytale castles, lighthouses and a whole realm of wildlife. If ever there was a time to wish you could give it all up and move to a beautiful and remote island, this would probably be it. Back on land, finish today north of the Ottawa River in charming Gatineau.

Waking up in lively Ottawa, you'll start today with a group sightseeing tour of the city's best loved icons (and trust us, there are many). You'll be ticking off Parliament Hill, its copper topped turrets and gargoyles reflective of the Gothic architecture style, visiting the stunning Notre Dame Cathe-dral Basilica, the oldest church in Ottawa, and having a little spy at the home of the Canadian Prime Minister. Icons ticked and feeling fully versed on Ottawa's history, the rest of the day is yours to explore your way. Our suggestion? Join one of our Optional Experiences. Why not jump on board the Empress of Ottawa, a Costsaver Optional activity that will gently carry you down the Ottawa River, cruising past sites including the Canadian Museum of History and Rideau Falls en route, or perhaps pay a visit to the Canadian War Museum.

Ready for some romance? We've got good news - timeless, elegant Quebec City is up next. Exuding class, grandeur and a distinctly European feel, Quebec City is almost a country within a country; 95% of the population speak French, and around 75% are native Francophiles. Arriving here, we'll be listening out for the collective sighs of appreciation as you set eyes on the narrow cobblestone streets and pretty parks for the first time. No doubt itching to explore, why not unearth the city's gastronomic side today, or head to Saint-Rich for a truly authentic Quebec experience, browsing the many shops, restaurants and art galleries that line the streets here.

After no doubt grabbing a taste of France with a croissant and coffee, you'll be heading out to join a Local Specialist this morning for a tour of the UNESCO World Heritage listed Old Town. Checking out sites including The Citadel, the historically significant Plains of Abraham, and the famous turrets of the Chateau Frontenac, the world's most photographed hotel, prepare to fall even more in love with this city. This afternoon, why not continue your Quebec love affair with our Optional that will get you out of town to admire the towering Montmorency Falls. Standing at 83 metres these falls are actually higher than Niagara Falls, forming the mouth of the Montmorency River. Travel-ling back to Quebec City, you'll then be treated to a 3-course dinner in the historic district of Vieux-Quebec, tucking in to a menu of freshly sourced, organic ingredients.

We hope you're hungry this morning as for breakfast you'll be heading to the iconic Erabliere le Chemin du Roy, a traditional Cabane à Sucre (sugar shack) to learn how maple syrup, one of Canada's most famous exports, is made. You'll then make the short drive to Montreal, Canada's cultural capital where festivals, art, good food and a certain joie de vivre are all part of the daily make up. On arrival you'll meet up with a Local Specialist to learn the in's and out's of the UNESCO designated 'City of Design', admiring how old European style architecture can sit so naturally beside beautiful contemporary masterpieces. This evening and with free time to explore, why not head for dinner at one of the cute terraced cafes along Plateau Mont-Royal.

Bid 'Au Revoir' to French Canada and your newfound friends as your trip comes to an end with a complimentary return transfer back to Toronto.