Eastern Explorer

On arrival make your own way to your hotel. After meeting your tour director, the remainder of the day can be spent relaxing or independently exploring.

Meet fellow travelling companions at breakfast before setting off on a city tour. Explore the downtown area taking in highlights such as the Eaton Centre, old and new City Halls, Casa Loma, Yorkville and the University of Toronto. You'll also pass by the CN Tower and drive along the harbourfront giving you a wonderful impression of the city. You're then free to step out and take in more of the sights at your leisure.

Depart early and drive east following the north shore of Lake Ontario. First stop is the beautiful Thousand Islands resort region, where you embark on a relaxing cruise. After taking in the sights and sounds of this river playground, reboard the coach and head to Montréal.

This morning, tour dynamic Montréal, the second-largest French-speaking city in the world, which boasts a curious blend of history and modernity. View the Olympic complex, charming Old Montréal, McGill University, the residential streets of Mount Royal and the bustling shopping streets. The afternoon is free for you to relax at the hotel or take in more sights independently.

Drive out of the city and partially follow the route of Canada's first carriageway, the Chemin du Roy, deep into French Canada. Winding through typical French-Canadian towns and villages, experience true immersion in French culture. Upon arrival in Québec City, tour the walls of the old city and view Lower Town, the Citadel, Battlefields Park and the ornate city gates.

A full day at leisure to further explore the sights of this charming World Heritage Site. Alternatively, join an optional full day excursion to Tadoussac (at extra expense) which includes a 3 hour whale watching tour at the mouth of the Saguenay River. The tour also visits Montmorency Falls.

Following the shore of the St Lawrence, travel west past Montréal across the Ontario border and on to Ottawa, Canada's capital. Stop for lunch along the way at the Sucrerie de la Montagne - an authentic sugar shack and pioneer-style restaurant. Upon arrival in Ottawa, you're free to settle into your hotel or to step out and start discovering the city's delights.

During a morning city tour view the Parliament buildings, residences of the Prime Minister and the Governor General, see the Rideau Canal (designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site) and more. The afternoon is yours to shop, explore museums or sightsee as you wish.

The journey west from Ottawa features sparkling lakes, rushing streams, deep forests and characteristic northern towns. A highlight will be a visit to Algonquin Provincial Park for a walk along the scenic trails. Travel on to the Muskoka resort region.

Drive south past Toronto and then through the orchards and vineyards of the Niagara Peninsula to Niagara Falls. Here, a thrilling boat ride takes you to the foot of the thundering waterfalls for an unforgettable experience. You will also take a ride to the top of the Skylon Tower for a spectacular aerial perspective of the falls and surrounding district. There is also the option of a Niagara Helicopter tour or ride on the Niagara Skywheel (both at extra expense).

Follow the scenic Niagara Parkway through the historic village of Niagara-on-the-Lake, which has a carefully-preserved 19th century atmosphere. Travel on to Toronto and this evening enjoy a special 'Farewell to Canada' dinner at the iconic CN Tower.

Time for last minute shopping and farewells to new friends before making your own way to the airport for your onward journey.