Toronto , Canada

Toronto Holiday Lights Bus Tour

Active

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Celebrate the holiday season in Toronto with a festive lights bus tour that showcases the city’s iconic landmarks adorned with dazzling Christmas lights. This 75-90 minute guided experience takes you through the vibrant downtown, including Nathan Phillips Square, the Distillery District, and Yorkville, all beautifully decorated for the season. Enjoy live commentary from an expert guide who shares engaging stories about Toronto’s history and holiday traditions while you capture stunning photos of the winter wonderland around you. Perfect for families, couples, and groups looking to immerse themselves in the festive cheer.

- Guided bus tour through Toronto’s downtown holiday lights
- Visit iconic sites like Nathan Phillips Square
- Live expert commentary on the city’s history and holiday traditions
- Ideal for families, couples, and groups seeking festive fun

Available options

Toronto Holiday Lights Bus Tour

What's included

Guaranteed Seating on the Upper Level

Festive Treats

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

The tour departs from Sankofa square which hosts Winter Glow during the holiday season. Arrive early to experience the magic of the holiday season at Sankofa Square. This festive event brings dazzling lights, carnival rides, games, and entertainment to the heart of Toronto.

Stop 2 Pass by

Bloor-Yorkville BIA celebrates the holiday season by illuminating the neighbourhood with a one-of-a-kind display of festive lighting.

The Village of Yorkville Park will light up in late November and trees along Bloor Street will be lit up for a spectacular display to welcome everyone for the holiday season.

To further celebrate the neighbourhood during the holiday season, Bloor-Yorkville has uniquely designed Urban Campfire Benches along Bloor Street West (between Church Street and Avenue Road). The benches are permanent fixtures along Bloor Street, with 60 benches resembling campfires that light up when in use. The benches will be lit up in holiday colours and bring a piece of the great outdoors to bustling Bloor Street.

Nathan Phillips Square is adorned with numerous light installations, creating a magical atmosphere.
The iconic outdoor rink at Nathan Phillips Square is open for free public skating throughout the holiday season.
The event celebrates the cultural diversity of Toronto, with performances and activities that reflect the holiday traditions of different communities.
The lighting installations remain on display until early January!

One of Toronto’s best holiday lights transformation takes place in the Financial District.

The business area steps into the holiday spirit with gusto by embracing the season wrapped in a magical envelope of lights. Majestic trees are found both indoors and outdoors.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please check in with the staff either directly at the bus or at the Visitor Information and Ticket Kiosk on the square.

About Toronto

Toronto is Canada's largest city and a vibrant multicultural hub known for its towering skyscrapers, diverse neighborhoods, and rich cultural scene. It's a city where modernity and tradition blend seamlessly, offering a dynamic urban experience with a welcoming atmosphere.

Top Attractions

CN Tower

The CN Tower is an iconic landmark of Toronto and one of the tallest freestanding structures in the world. It offers panoramic views of the city and a thrilling EdgeWalk experience.

Architecture 1-2 hours $38 CAD for general admission

Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

The ROM is Canada's largest museum of natural history and world cultures. It features a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits, including dinosaur fossils, ancient artifacts, and contemporary art.

Museum 2-3 hours $23 CAD for adults

Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands offer a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. With beautiful beaches, scenic trails, and stunning views of the skyline, it's a perfect spot for picnics, cycling, and relaxation.

Nature Half-day to full day $8.25 CAD round trip ferry ticket

Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Ripley's Aquarium is a fascinating underwater world featuring a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and penguins. It's an exciting and educational experience for all ages.

Attraction 1-2 hours $42.99 CAD for adults

Distillery District

The Distillery District is a historic and charming neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, Victorian-era buildings, and vibrant arts scene. It's a great place for shopping, dining, and cultural events.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore, varies for shops and restaurants

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poutine

A classic Canadian dish consisting of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.

Main Dish Contains dairy and gluten

Butter Tarts

A sweet pastry filled with a mixture of butter, sugar, syrup, and sometimes raisins or pecans.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Peameal Bacon Sandwich

A Toronto specialty featuring peameal bacon (back bacon rolled in cornmeal) served on a bun.

Breakfast/Lunch Contains pork

Nanaimo Bars

A no-bake dessert square with a crumb base, a light custard-flavored butter icing in the middle, and a chocolate layer on top.

Dessert Contains gluten, dairy, and nuts

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Canoeing Spas Yoga Meditation Museums Art Galleries

Best Time to Visit

May to October

This is the best time to visit Toronto for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city comes alive with festivals, outdoor dining, and events.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, French
Widely spoken: English, French, Mandarin, Cantonese, Punjabi, Spanish, Tagalog, Portuguese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

GMT-5 (Eastern Standard Time, EST) or GMT-4 (Eastern Daylight Time, EDT)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Toronto is generally considered a safe city, but like any major urban center, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs
• Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Toronto Pearson International Airport • 22.5 km from city center
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport • 3 km from city center

By train

Toronto Union Station

By bus

Toronto Coach Terminal, Union Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The TTC subway system is efficient and widely used. It consists of four lines that connect major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Toronto Kensington Market Chinatown The Annex Leslieville

Day trips

Niagara Falls

130 km from Toronto • Full day

Niagara Falls is one of the world's most famous natural wonders, offering breathtaking views, boat tours, and a variety of attractions.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

135 km from Toronto • Full day

Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming town known for its historic sites, wineries, and beautiful architecture.

Blue Mountain

150 km from Toronto • Full day or overnight

Blue Mountain is a popular year-round destination offering skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and a charming village with shops and restaurants.

Festivals

Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) • September Pride Toronto • June Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) • August

Pro tips

Visit the Toronto Islands for a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle
Explore the Distillery District for its charming cobblestone streets and vibrant arts scene
Try local craft beers at one of the city's many breweries
Visit during the Toronto Christmas Market for a magical and festive experience
Take a stroll along the waterfront for stunning views of the city skyline