Kingston

Modern-day Canada's first capital, albeit only for three years, Kingston was stripped of the title when Queen Victoria worried that it was too close to the American border and could not be properly defended. Today, the pretty city finds itself strategically placed as the perfect pit stop between Montréal or Ottawa and Toronto.

Downtown Kingston City Hall, National Historic Site, circa 1842, Kingston, Ontario, Canada

Getty Images/Gallo Images

Book
British Columbia & the Canadian Rockies Travel Guide
Book

British Columbia & the Canadian Rockies

Shop $26.99 USD
App
Lonely Planet App on a phone
Brand New!

Get the Lonely Planet App

World Nomads travel insurance
Trusted Partner

Dreaming of Kingston? Protect your trip

Travel with confidence. Protect your trip and your wallet.

We don’t represent World Nomads, we receive a fee from quotes using this link. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Take your Canada trip with Lonely Planet Journeys

Time to book that trip to Canada

Lonely Planet Journeys takes you there with fully customizable trips to top destinations – all crafted by our local experts.

start planning learn more

Top places to visit in Kingston

Discover the best attractions in Kingston from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

Explore all

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

Explore all books

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Kingston