Your Escape from the City: A Perfect Day Trip from Toronto to Prince Edward County
Feeling the city closing in? Dreaming of trading skyscrapers for vineyards and traffic jams for tranquil lakeside views? The perfect escape is closer than you think. Welcome to Prince Edward County (PEC), a sun-drenched island on Lake Ontario that has blossomed into Ontario’s premier wine region and a top-tier foodie destination. It’s the ideal antidote to Toronto’s hustle and bustle.
But first, let’s clear something up! When we talk about this idyllic getaway, we’re talking about Prince Edward County in Ontario, a beautiful island just a few hours’ drive from Toronto—not the maritime province of Prince Edward Island! Now that we have our bearings, let’s dive into planning your ultimate one-day adventure.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | Approx. 215 km (133 miles) from Downtown Toronto |
| Drive Time | 2.5 – 3 hours (no traffic); 4+ hours (with weekend/summer traffic) |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekdays in Summer (Jun-Aug) or Fall (Sep-Oct) |
| Est. Day Cost (per person) | $100 – $250+ (see budget breakdown for details) |
Is Prince Edward County Worth Visiting for a Day?
Yes, absolutely! While you could easily spend a week exploring every nook and cranny, a well-planned day trip is a fantastic way to get a “taste” of what makes the County so special. It requires an early start and a solid plan, but the rewards are immense. Where else can you sink your toes into massive sand dunes in the morning, sip world-class cool-climate wines in the afternoon, and enjoy a farm-to-table meal as the sun sets over the lake?
A day trip to PEC is your chance to experience a unique blend of stunning natural landscapes, charming historic towns, and a sophisticated culinary scene, all within reach of the city.
How to Get to Prince Edward County from Toronto
Getting to this island paradise is part of the adventure. Here’s a breakdown of your best options.
By Car (The Best Option for a Day Trip)
Driving is, without a doubt, the most flexible and recommended way to experience PEC on a day trip. It allows you to set your own schedule, explore off-the-beaten-path roads, and easily transport any wine or local goodies you purchase.
- Primary Route: The main route is taking Highway 401 East from Toronto. Depending on where in the County you’re headed first, you can exit at Wooler Road (County Road 40) or Highway 33 (exit 522).
- Time-Saving Tip: Consider taking the 407 ETR toll highway to bypass some of the notorious Toronto traffic, especially on a Friday.
- Crucial Traffic Warning: To make the most of your day, you must beat the traffic. We recommend leaving Toronto by 7:30 AM at the absolute latest. On a summer weekend, leaving even earlier is wise. The drive is about 2.5 hours without traffic, but can easily swell to over 4 hours.
How to Get to Prince Edward County Without a Car
Don’t have a car? No problem. While it’s more challenging for a day trip, it’s not impossible. Here are your best bets.
- Organized Tours: This is the best car-free option. Several companies offer bus or van tours directly from Toronto. They handle the driving, create the itinerary, and often pre-book winery visits, meaning you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the wine without worrying about a designated driver.
- Public Transit: This is the most complex option. You can take a VIA Rail train to Belleville, which is about a 30-40 minute drive from PEC’s main towns. From the Belleville station, you’ll need to take a taxi or Uber (approx. $50-$70 one way) or have a local tour company pick you up. This can be costly and time-consuming, making it difficult to pull off for a single day.
| Transportation | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | Total flexibility, carry purchases easily, cost-effective for groups. | Heavy traffic is likely, must have a designated driver, parking can be tight. | Independent explorers, families, and small groups. |
| Guided Tour | No driving stress, everyone can enjoy tastings, curated experience. | Fixed itinerary, can be more expensive per person. | First-time visitors, solo travellers, and car-free groups. |
| Public Transit | Lower initial cost to get to the region. | Slow, inconvenient, expensive “last mile” from the station, not ideal for a day trip. | Budget travellers with lots of time and patience. |
A Perfect One-Day Itinerary from Toronto
A successful day trip is all about maximizing your time. This sample itinerary focuses on the Hillier and Wellington area to minimize driving time within the County.
- 7:30 AM: Hit the Road from Toronto
Grab a coffee and get on the 401 East. An early start is non-negotiable to beat the traffic and get a full day in. - 10:30 AM: First Stop: Sandbanks Provincial Park
Head straight to the iconic Sandbanks. Walk the incredible dunes, stroll along Outlet Beach, and take in the stunning Lake Ontario views. Remember: you MUST book your Daily Vehicle Permit online in advance (up to 5 days ahead), as it sells out fast in summer. - 12:30 PM: Lunch at a Brewery or Casual Spot
You’ve worked up an appetite. Head to Parsons Brewing Company for great beer and delicious food in a family-friendly setting, or grab a fantastic sandwich from Flossie’s Sandwich Parlor. - 2:00 PM: Afternoon Wine Tasting
You’re in the heart of wine country! Visit 2-3 wineries in close proximity. The Hillier area is packed with great options. Try Hinterland Wine Company for sparkling, Karlo Estates for their unique barn setting, or Norman Hardie for their famous pizza and pinot noir. - 4:30 PM: Explore a Main Street
Wind down by exploring one of the charming towns. Wellington has a lovely lakeside vibe with a picturesque lighthouse, while Bloomfield is known for its artisan shops and boutiques. - 6:00 PM: Early Dinner or Snacks for the Road
Enjoy an early dinner at a spot like La Condesa for vibrant Mexican food or The Drake Devonshire for lakeside views. Alternatively, grab some ice cream from Slickers and a coffee for the drive home. - 7:30 PM: Drive Back to Toronto
Start your journey back to the city, filled with great food, wine, and memories.
Top 5 Things to Do in Prince Edward County on a Day Trip
Overwhelmed by the options? Here are the five must-do activities for your first visit.
- Relax at Sandbanks Provincial Park: This is a must. The massive sand dunes and freshwater beaches are truly world-class. It’s the perfect place to start your day. Insider Tip: Go to Dunes Beach for the most impressive sandscapes.
- Go Wine Tasting in Hillier: Drive along the “Golden Mile” (Loyalist Parkway) in the Hillier ward. This area has the highest concentration of wineries. You can’t go wrong, but a few favourites are Norman Hardie, Hinterland Wine Company, and Karlo Estates.
- Explore the Charming Towns: Each town has its own personality. Picton is the largest and busiest hub with historic buildings. Bloomfield is filled with art galleries and boutique shops. Wellington offers a relaxed, lakeside feel with a cute lighthouse.
- Savour the Local Food Scene: PEC is a farm-to-table paradise. From food trucks to fine dining, the focus is on fresh, local ingredients. Don’t leave without trying the local produce or a scoop of famous ice cream.
- Snap a Photo at a Scenic Spot: Capture the memory! Great photo ops include the Wellington Rotary Beach lighthouse, the vibrant fields at a lavender farm (seasonal, June-July), or the sweeping vineyard views from a winery patio like The Grange of Prince Edward.
Where to Eat in PEC (A Foodie’s Guide)
From quick bites to gourmet meals, PEC’s food scene punches well above its weight.
Quick & Casual ($)
- Slickers Ice Cream (Picton/Bloomfield): A legendary institution. Lines can be long, but the unique, homemade flavours are worth the wait.
- The Vic Cafe (Picton): A great spot for a quick coffee, healthy lunch bowl, or delicious baked goods.
- Flossie’s Sandwich Parlor (Hillier): An amazing food truck serving up creative and massive sandwiches. Perfect for a casual lunch.
Mid-Range Lunch Spots ($$)
- Parsons Brewing Company (Picton): A beautiful brewery with a sprawling outdoor space, great beer, and a tasty, Latin-inspired food menu.
- La Condesa (Wellington): Vibrant and authentic Mexican cuisine with a fantastic patio. Their tacos are a must-try.
- The Drake Devonshire (Wellington): Can be pricey, but grabbing a drink and a bite on their iconic lakeside patio is a quintessential PEC experience.
A Worth-it Dinner ($$$)
- Flame + Smith (Bloomfield): A beautifully designed restaurant focused on wood-fired cooking. A true culinary destination. Reservations are essential.
- Merrill House (Picton): For a special occasion, this historic inn offers an exquisite fine dining experience with a focus on French cuisine.
Planning Your Visit: Key Details for 2025
Opening Hours
- Wineries: In high season (May-Oct), most are open daily from 11 am to 5 pm or 6 pm. In the off-season, hours are reduced, and many operate by appointment only. Some close entirely from January to March.
- Restaurants & Shops: Hours vary. Always check online or call ahead, especially if visiting on a weekday or in the shoulder season. Reservations are highly recommended for dinner.
Entry Fees & Prices
| Attraction/Activity | Estimated Cost (2025) |
|---|---|
| Sandbanks Provincial Park | ~$21 per vehicle (Daily Permit) |
| Winery Tastings | $5 – $20 per flight (often waived with bottle purchase) |
| PEC Lavender Farm | ~$10 – $12 per person (during peak bloom) |
| Point Petre Lighthouse | Free |
Parking & Accessibility
- Parking: Generally free at wineries and parks. Street parking in Picton, Wellington, and Bloomfield can be competitive during peak season. Sandbanks parking is included with your permit but fills up very early.
- Accessibility: Varies. Many newer wineries are accessible, but older historic buildings may have steps. Sandbanks has some accessible boardwalks. It’s always best to call ahead to confirm accessibility.
Insider Tips for a Flawless Day Trip
- Book Everything Ahead: This is the most important tip! Book your Sandbanks park pass, dinner reservations, and even some popular winery tastings (like Norman Hardie) well in advance, especially for a weekend visit.
- Go on a Weekday: If you can, visit between Tuesday and Thursday. You’ll be rewarded with significantly less traffic, smaller crowds, and a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Download Offline Maps: Cell service can be patchy in the more rural parts of the County. Download a Google Map of the area to your phone so you can navigate without interruption.
- Bring a Cooler Bag: You’ll want to bring home some wine, cheese, or other local treats. A cooler bag with an ice pack will keep them fresh in the car.
- Appoint a Designated Driver: With so many amazing wineries, it’s easy to get carried away. Please drink responsibly and ensure you have a designated driver to get your group home safely.
- Watch the Roads: Be mindful of cyclists and slow-moving farm equipment on the narrow, winding country roads. The pace is slower here—embrace it!
What to Pack Checklist
- Comfortable Shoes (for walking in vineyards and towns)
- Sunscreen, Hat, and Sunglasses
- Reusable Water Bottle to stay hydrated
- Camera / Smartphone for all the photo ops
- Portable Power Bank (your phone’s battery will be working hard!)
- Light Jacket or Sweater (it can be breezy by the lake, even on a warm day)
- Cooler Bag & Ice Pack
- Proof of Reservations (digital or print)
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Your costs can vary widely depending on your tastes, but here is a general guideline for planning your day trip budget.
| Expense Category | Low End Estimate | High End Estimate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transportation | $30 | $50 | Gas split between 2-4 people. |
| Food & Drink | $50 | $150+ | Food truck lunch vs. a three-course dinner. |
| Activities | $10 | $60 | Park pass (split) + 2-3 standard wine tastings. |
| Total | $90 | $260+ | Excludes any take-home wine or souvenir purchases. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Prince Edward County worth visiting?
Absolutely. It offers a rare combination of top-tier wineries, an acclaimed food scene, beautiful beaches, and charming towns, all with a relaxed, rural vibe. It’s the perfect place to recharge and indulge.
How far is Prince Edward County from Toronto via?
Via Highway 401, Prince Edward County is approximately 215 km east of downtown Toronto. The drive typically takes 2.5 to 3 hours in clear traffic conditions.
How to get to Prince Edward County without a car?
The most practical way is to book a guided bus or van tour from Toronto. The other option is taking a VIA Rail train to Belleville and then hiring a taxi or Uber for the final 30-40 minute drive into the County, though this can be complex for a day trip.
How far is Prince Edward Island from Toronto by car?
This is a common point of confusion! Prince Edward Island (PEI) is a maritime province on the east coast of Canada. It is about 1,700 km from Toronto, a 17+ hour drive that requires an overnight stop. This guide is for Prince Edward County, Ontario, which is only a few hours away!
TL;DR: The Short & Sweet Version
- Go on a weekday if you can to avoid insane traffic and crowds.
- Leave Toronto by 7:30 AM at the latest.
- BOOK IN ADVANCE: Your Sandbanks day pass is mandatory to book online. Also book dinner and popular wineries.
- Best Way to Go: Driving is most flexible. A guided tour is the best car-free option.
- Must-Do’s: Visit Sandbanks, taste wine in the Hillier region, and explore Wellington or Bloomfield.
- Don’t Forget: A designated driver, a cooler bag for your purchases, and an offline map.
Your Perfect Escape is Waiting
A day trip to Prince Edward County is more than just a change of scenery; it’s a chance to slow down, savour local flavours, and reconnect with nature. It’s the perfect, accessible escape that feels a world away from the concrete jungle.
Ready to plan your escape? Save this guide for your next adventure! Have you been to PEC? Share your favourite spot in the comments below!
