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Sunset over Toronto, Canada

It is heralded as one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with over 200 distinct ethnic origins represented among its population.

Although the city is not easy to visit in a motorhome, you can definitely stay a few days prior to pick up an  RV rental in Toronto . Best of both worlds!

THE SHORES OF LAKE ONTARIO

Toronto CN Tower

RIPLEY’S AQUARIUM OF CANADA

Located at the foot of the CN Tower, this huge 135,000 square foot aquarium takes you on a true underwater journey, through different habitats from around the world, where fascinating sea creatures live in more than 5 million liters of water ! You will have the chance to visit different galleries including Canadian Waters , with a section on the fascinating biodiversity of the Great Lakes, the Rainbow Reef of the Indo-Pacific Ocean, Dangerous Lagoon , the Discovery Centre and its interactive exhibits, Ray Bay , Planet Jellies , and the " Curious Creatures " exhibit, which will introduce you to the life of reporter, adventurer, explorer, draftsman and great collector Robert Ripley (1890-1949) in addition to many curious creatures from the four corners of the world.

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., but closes earlier on occasion for private events.

Harbourfront Center

Toronto Island Marina

The Harbourfront Centre houses marinas, cafés, restaurants, craft and antique shops, studios, elegant residential complexes, gardens and green spaces.

The Toronto Islands

Downtown Toronto from the islands

Ontario Place

Aerial view of Ontario Place

Toronto Dominion Center

The dark glass towers of the Toronto Dominion Center were the first major structures to be built in Toronto's financial district, one of the largest business communities in North America. Some 21,000 people work in the complex, which also serves as headquarters and corporate offices for a number of influential Canadian businesses.

Hockey Hall of Fame

The Hockey Hall of Fame, Toronto

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Toronto City Hall

100 Queen Street West, Toronto

Eaton Center

Toronto Eaton Centre

Open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

ART GALLERY OF ONTARIO

 Art Gallery of Ontario

Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 to 5 p.m., Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

BATA SHOE MUSEUM

Bata shoe Museum

Open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.

ROYAL ONTARIO MUSEUM

Royal Ontario Museum

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. between July 1 and the first Monday in September. Closed on Mondays in low season.

Casa Loma, Toronto

Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

ONTARIO SCIENCE CENTRE

Since 1969, this temple of science has been inviting visitors of all ages to explore the more than 500 interactive activities in its eight exhibition halls . It offers a wide variety of science workshops , demonstrations and shows , as well as an IMAX theater , a restaurant and cafés.

Open Wednesday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and weekends from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

TORONTO ZOO

The Toronto Zoo's mission is "connecting people, animals and conservation science to fight extinction": with more than 5,000 animals belonging to 450 species from around the world, you could say they're doing their part. The zoo is divided into seven different geographic regions, each showcasing animals and plants from that area of the world: Africa, the Americas, Australasia, the Canadian Domain, Eurasia Wilds, Indo-Malaya, and Tundra Trek. There are also opportunities to meet some of the animals and their keepers, a Kids Zoo and Splash Island water park, a zipline... Something to please everyone!

Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (until 7 p.m. in summer).

Optional activities

  • Tour of the CN Tower
  • Dine in the sky in Toronto
  • Guided tour of Toronto

Where to eat

  • $ Inexpensive
  • $$ Moderate
  • $$$ Upscale
  • $$$$ Fine dining

SEVEN LIVES ($)

This tiny restaurant in Kensington Market is immensely popular for its famous and delicious tacos. The taco menu features a variety of options such as meat, fish, shrimp, octopus, and for vegetarians, mushrooms and cactus, all accompanied by homemade salsas. Their signature dish is their Gobernador taco with house-smoked tuna, grilled shrimp and cheese. They also serve a tasty seafood ceviche served with tostadas and a dish of the day. As there is often a lineup and there is no real seating area, you can enjoy your meal while strolling through the market.

Open daily from noon to 7 p.m.

AMSTERDAM BREWHOUSE ($$)

The Amsterdam Brewing Co. has been brewing its own beers since 1986 and you can taste them at their restaurant, the Amsterdam Brewhouse. The chef works together with their brewers to create dishes that are prepared not only using their beers, but also with ingredients that are used in the brewing process. The unpretentious pub-style menu features wood fired pizzas, burgers and sandwiches as well as meat, pasta, fish and tofu dishes. In the summer, you can sit on their huge terrace overlooking the vast Lake Ontario and enjoy your beer.

Open daily from 11 a.m.

Momofuku Noodle Bar ($$-$$$)

When New York star chef David Chang decided to transplant his famous noodle bar to Toronto, it was an instant success. Momofuko Toronto is a 6,600 square foot 3-storey restaurant complex featuring 3 restaurants (Momofuku on the ground floor, Daisho and Shoto on the third floor) and a cocktail bar. Momofuku is a cafeteria-style restaurant with long communal tables. Must-try menu items include the chicken buns, ginger scallion noodles, Hong Kong egg, rice cakes, mackerel, chicken wings and rice pudding.

Open Tuesday - Saturdays for lunch from noon to 2:30 p.m and evenings from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. (to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays).

RICHMOND STATION ($$-$$$)

This bustling downtown restaurant is always committed to offering delicious cuisine with a focus on great ingredients and warm hospitality. Chef Carl Heinrich concocts dishes such as smoked cheese perogies with cauliflower cream, Brussels sprouts and rösti; Station burger with homemade rolls, garnish and rosemary fries; two-way duck with sweet and sour rutabaga and roasted cabbage; braised rabbit fettuccine with oyster mushrooms and butternut squash. (As the menu may change, dishes are named as examples.)

Open daily from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m (from 3:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays).

360 The restaurant at the CN Tower ($$$-$$$$)

360 offers delicious market-fresh Canadian cuisine at a height of 350 metres! Enjoy a glass of Canadian wine as you admire a unique 360-degree panoramic view of the city. Open for lunch and dinner; reservation is recommended. Access to the LookOut and GlassFloor is free with the purchase of a prix fixe !

Open daily for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and for dinner from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Canoe ($$$$)

Located on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower in Toronto's financial district, Canoe offers spectacular views of the city and inventive regional Canadian cuisine created by the chef. The menu, from succulent foie gras to grilled-to-perfection meats to spectacular seafood, is simply prepared and spot on. The tastes are nuanced, surprising and textured. And, thanks to a presentation that is gallery-worthy, always lovely to admire. The service is unpretentious and professional.

Open Monday-Friday for lunch from 11:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. and for dinner from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

*** Hours may vary ***

Where to sleep .

  • Germain Maple Leaf Square
  • Novotel Toronto Centre
  • Fairmont Royal York
  • Town Inn Suites
  • Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre
  • Chelsea Hotel Toronto

Festivals calendar

Toronto jazz festival.

Dates: late June - early July

Created in 1987, the Toronto Jazz Festival presents an impressive lineup of over 1,500 artists, including some of the greatest jazz celebrities in the world. Today more than 500,000 jazz lovers come together each year over the 10 days of festivities to attend one or more of the 350 concerts held all across the city.

Pride Toronto

Dates: end of June 

Toronto's Pride Week is one of the premier arts and cultural festivals in Canada. It is not surprising that the event is an unqualified success, year after year: attendance of over a million people, street festival, live entertainment, street fair, costumes, Pride Parade, and much more...

Toronto Caribbean Carnival

Dates: late July / early August

Canada's largest city is home to this exuberant celebration of Caribbean music and culture, featuring steel bands, a King and Queen competition, concerts and musical boat cruises. The festivities culminate with the spectacular carnival parade. The largest Caribbean festival in North America.

toronto travel guide book

When to visit

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Great city, a must see!

Interesting city, but not a must see, ok as a starting point.

toronto travel guide book

One day in Toronto is enough, good place for Niagara fall excursion

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Toronto

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Toronto Travel Guide

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Toronto sprawls along the northern shore of Lake Ontario, its pulsating centre encased by a jangle of satellite townships and industrial zones which cover – as the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) – no less than one hundred square kilometres. In recent decades, successive city administrations and a raft of wealthy benefactors have lavished millions of dollars on glitzy architecture, slick museums, an excellent public transport system and the reclamation and development of the lakefront. As a result, few would argue that GTA has become the cultural and economic focus of English-speaking Canada, and its five and a million inhabitants share what must surely be one of North America’s most likeable, liveable cities.

Eating and drinking

Nightlife and entertainment, the suburbs, toronto’s leading festivals, toronto’s neighbourhoods, the waterfront and the toronto islands.

The city has its share of attention-grabbing places to visit and the majority are conveniently clustered in the centre – either Downtown or Uptown. The most celebrated of them is the CN Tower (until 2010 the world’s tallest freestanding structure), which stands next to the modern hump of the SkyDome stadium, now the Rogers Centre. The city’s other prestige attractions kick off with the Art Gallery of Ontario , which possesses a first-rate selection of Canadian painting, and the Royal Ontario Museum , where pride of place goes to the Chinese and First Peoples collections. Yet it’s the pick of Toronto’s smaller galleries that really add to the city’s charm. There are a superb collection of ceramics at the Gardiner Museum , a fascinating range of footwear at the Bata Shoe Museum and the small but eclectic Gallery of Inuit Art . You’ll find absorbing period homes too, most memorably the mock-Gothic extravagances of Casa Loma and the Victorian gentility of Spadina House , as well as the replica colonial fortress of Fort York , where Toronto began. Spare some time also for the good-looking buildings of the lively St Lawrence neighbourhood and the Distillery District , the city’s brightest arts complex, sited in a capacious former distillery. Indeed, there is an outstanding programme of performing arts , from dance to theatre and beyond, as well as exciting festivals, a vibrant club scene and literally hundreds of cafés and restaurants.

Toronto’s sights illustrate different facets of the city, but in no way do they crystallize its identity . The city remains opaque, too big and diverse to allow for a defining personality and this adds an enticing air of excitement and unpredictability to the place. Neither is its layout predictable: Toronto may have evolved from a lakeside settlement, but its growth has been sporadic and mostly unplanned, resulting in a cityscape that can seem a particularly random mix of the old and the new. This apparent disarray, when combined with the city’s muggy summers, means most visitors spend their time hopping from sight to sight on the transit lines rather than walking. Yet, if you’ve the time and determination to get under the skin of the city, take to your feet and Toronto will slowly reveal itself.

Brief history

Situated on the slab of land separating Lake Ontario and Georgian Bay, Toronto was on one of the early portage routes into the interior, its name taken from the Huron for “place of meeting”. The first European to visit the district was the French explorer Étienne Brûlé in 1615, but it wasn’t until the middle of the eighteenth century that the French made a serious effort to control Lake Ontario with the development of a simple settlement and stockade, Fort Rouillé . The British pushed the French from the northern shore of Lake Ontario in 1759, but then chose to ignore the site for almost forty years until the arrival of hundreds of United Empire Loyalists in the aftermath of the American Revolution.

In 1791 the British divided their remaining American territories into two, Upper and Lower Canada. The first capital of Upper Canada was Niagara-on-the-Lake, but this was too near the American border for comfort and the province’s new lieutenant-governor, John Graves Simcoe , moved his administration to the relative safety of Toronto in 1793, calling the new settlement York . Simcoe had grand classical visions of colonial settlement, but was exasperated by the conditions of frontier life, noting “the city’s site was better calculated for a frog pond … than for the residence of human beings”. Nicknamed “Muddy York”, the capital was little more than a village when, in 1812, the Americans attacked and burnt its main buildings.

The Family Compact – and William Lyon Mackenzie

In the early nineteenth century, effective economic and political power lay in the hands of an anglophile oligarchy christened the Family Compact by the radical polemicists of the day. The Compact’s most vociferous opponent was a radical Scot, William Lyon Mackenzie , who promulgated his views both in his newspaper, the Colonial Advocate , and as a member of the legislative assembly. Mackenzie became the first mayor of Toronto, as the town was renamed in 1834, but the radicals were defeated in the elections two years later and a frustrated Mackenzie drifted towards the idea of armed revolt. In 1837, he staged a poorly organized insurrection , during which a few hundred farmers marched down the main drag, Yonge Street, fought a couple of half-hearted skirmishes and then melted away. Mackenzie fled across the border and two of the other ringleaders were executed, but the British parliament, mindful of similar events that led to the American Revolution, moved to liberalize Upper Canada’s administration instead of taking reprisals. In 1841, they granted Canada responsible government , reuniting the two provinces in a loose confederation, prefiguring the final union of 1867 when Upper Canada was redesignated Ontario .

Toronto the Good

By the end of the nineteenth century, Toronto had become a major manufacturing centre dominated by a conservative mercantile elite, which was exceedingly loyal to the British interest and maintained a strong Protestant tradition. This elite was sustained by the working-class Orange Lodges , whose reactionary influence was a key feature of municipal politics, prompting a visiting Charles Dickens to complain about the city’s “rabid Toryism”. Other commentators were equally critical, referring to Toronto at one time or another as “Hogtown” and – with more than a slice of irony – “Toronto the Good”. Nevertheless, these same Protestants were enthusiastic about public education, just like the Methodist-leaning middle classes, who spearheaded social reform movements, principally suffrage and temperance. The trappings, however, remained far from alluring – well into the twentieth century Sunday was preserved as a “day of rest” and Eaton’s department store drew its curtains to prevent Sabbath window-shopping. Indeed, for all its capital status, the city was strikingly provincial by comparison with Montréal until well into the 1950s, when the opening of the St Lawrence Seaway gave the place something of a jolt and the first wave of non-white immigrants began to transform the city’s complexion. Indeed, Toronto today is perhaps one of the world’s most diverse cities – more than 130 languages and dialects crowd the airstream here, and half of Toronto’s residents were born outside Canada.

Modern Toronto

In the 1960s, the economy exploded, and the city’s appearance was transformed by the construction of a series of mighty, modernistic skyscrapers . This helter-skelter development was further boosted by the troubles in Québec, where the clamour for fair treatment by the francophones prompted many of Montréal’s anglophone-dominated financial institutions and big businesses to transfer to Toronto. Since then, Toronto’s economy has followed the cycles of boom and retrenchment common to the rest of the country, but politically Ontario took a turn to the right in the mid-1990s with the election of the Progressive Conservatives led by Mike Harris. Nothing if not hard-nosed, Harris pushed through a major governmental reorganization , combining the city of Toronto with its surrounding suburbs to create the “Mega City” of today. The change was deeply unpopular in Toronto itself, but Harris still managed to get himself re-elected in 2000 with the large-scale support of small-town and suburban Ontario. In 2003, Ontario returned to the political centre, ejecting the Progressive Conservatives in favour of the Liberals, heralding a move towards more moderate, consensual politics.

When Independent Rob Ford was elected in 2010, that ideal flew out the window. While he ran on a platform of fiscal responsibility, he was soon caught up in a conflict of interest scandal, and others concerning his use of alcohol and drugs. The controversies reached a climax in an internet video in which, visibly high, he admitted to smoking crack cocaine. He initially refused to step down, but a stint in rehab and a tumour diagnosis forced him to pull out, and things have been a bit more stable since, with the election of John Tory in 2014 and the successful hosting of the Pan American Games in summer 2015.

Toronto – and especially the areas around King St West, Queen St West and West Queen West – simply heaves with cafés and restaurants , everything from smart and expensive designer places to informal neighbourhood joints. Some of the best emphasize their use of Canadian ingredients – fish and wild game, particularly – but there’s no real distinctive local cuisine per se. Prices range from upwards of $60 for a meal at fancier restaurants, to bargain-basement cafés where a decent-sized snack or sandwich works out at just a few dollars. The majority of places fall somewhere in between – a $35 bill per person for a two-course meal, excluding drinks.

Many of Toronto’s traditional bars are rough-and-ready places that look and feel like beer halls. Indeed, until the 1980s, it was common for most city bars to have one entrance for men accompanied by women, the other for men only, and even today many of them remain firmly blue collar. Others – and these are the pick – feature a wide range of “craft” beers from any number of small and emergent breweries, or concentrate on live music, or have morphed into clubs . Nearly all serve (bar) food of some type or other.

The city that gave us The Weeknd, Fucked Up and Rush continues to exhibit a flourishing live music scene both for big-name and up-and-coming bands and artists, and jazz is well represented too. Toronto’s club scene is also vibrant, if not exactly earth-shattering, but there’s more than enough to keep anyone going for days (and nights) on end. For listings , consult NOW ( w nowtoronto.com ), a free weekly magazine widely available around town. As for the performing arts , Toronto sustains a wide-ranging programme of theatre, opera, ballet and classical music. Its particular strength is its theatre scene , the third-largest in the English-speaking world, after London and New York. For film, Toronto’s mainstream cinemas show Hollywood releases before they reach Europe and the city has an excellent art-house cinema – as befits a city that hosts what is often regarded as the world’s best film festival, the renowned Toronto International Film Festival .

The satellite suburbs and industrial areas that make up most of the GTA (The Greater Toronto Area) are of little general appeal, a string of formless settlements sprawling over a largely flat and dreary landscape, which extends from Oshawa in the east to Mississauga and Burlington in the west and north towards Barrie. Nevertheless, the suburbs are home to several prestige attractions, most notably the Ontario Science Centre , which showcases dozens of interactive science displays, and the Toronto Zoo .

The city is always putting something on, from beer festivals to a Caribbean carnival to a celebration of ice and winter; visit w seetorontonow.com for a full list. The Toronto International Film Festival or TIFF ( w tiff.net ) is one of the most respected film festivals in the world, established in 1976. Over a week-and-a-half in September, the celebration usually features close to 400 films, and queues to get into them can be fearsome. Single, same-day tickets are available from the TIFF box offices (or as rush tickets immediately before screenings), but regular TIFF attendees mostly buy books of tickets in advance or opt for one of several passes , which can be purchased from the TIFF website. In all cases, book well ahead. In June, there’s the outstanding Toronto Jazz Festival ( w tojazz.com ), which usually overlaps with the week-long Gay & Lesbian Pride ( w pridetoronto.com ), that culminates in a whopping Pride Day Parade with one million spectators. The Fringe Festival ( w fringetoronto.com ) in early July is also great fun; more than 150 inexpensive productions (encompassing plays, dance, alternative musicals and busking) take place all over the city, inside and out.

One of Toronto’s most striking features is its division into distinct neighbourhoods , many of them based on the residents’ ethnic origin, others defined by their sexual orientation or indeed income. Bilingual street signs identify some of these neighbourhoods, but architecturally they are often indistinguishable. The following rundown will help you get the most from the city’s demographic mosaic, whether you want to shop, eat or just take in the atmosphere.

The Beaches

South of Queen Street East between Woodbine and Victoria Park Ave. A prosperous and particularly appealing district with chic boutiques, leafy streets and a sandy beach trimmed by a popular boardwalk.

Cabbagetown

East of Jarvis and roughly bounded by Gerrard Street East on its south side, Wellesley to the north and the Don River to the east, it’s noted for its trim Victorian housing. Its name comes from the district’s nineteenth-century immigrants, whose tiny front gardens were filled with cabbages.

Spreads west along Dundas Street West from Beverley and then north up Spadina to College. This section is crowded with busy restaurants and stores selling anything from porcelain and jade to herbs and pickled seaweed.

The Gay Village

The Village’s plethora of bars, restaurants and bookshops radiate out from the intersection of Church and Wellesley streets. Jammed to the gunnels during Toronto Pride held in the last week of June.

Kensington Market

Just north of Dundas between Spadina and Augusta. Likely the most ethnically diverse part of town, combining Portuguese, West Indian and Jewish Canadians, who pack the streets with a ramble of small shops, cafés and open-air stalls.

Little Italy

The so-called Corso Italia, which runs along College between Bathurst and Ossington, is one of Toronto’s liveliest neighbourhoods, with a gaggle of good restaurants and bars.

Little Portugal

A crowded, vital area packed with shops and home-grown food joints, focused on Dundas Street West from Ossington to Lansdowne Ave.

Queen Street West, between University and Spadina, was once the grooviest part of town, but rising rents have long since pushed its crew of uber-cool Torontonians further west to what is often called “ West Queen West ”, running west from Strachan Street to Dufferin. West Queen West is the city’s star turn, with great bars, restaurants and shops.

Just above Bloor between Bay Street and Avenue Road, Yorkville was “alternative” in the 1960s, with regular appearances by the leading lights of the counterculture like Gordon Lightfoot and Joni Mitchell. Today, the alternative jive is long gone, and the district holds some of Toronto’s most showy clothing shops and art galleries.

There is much to enjoy on the north shore of Lake Ontario , despite its platoon of condominium tower blocks and the concrete brow of the Gardiner Expressway. Footpaths and cycling trails now nudge along a fair slice of the waterfront and the Harbourfront Centre offers a year-round schedule of activities. Even better are the Toronto Islands , whose breezy tranquillity attracts droves of city-dwellers during the city’s humid summers. It only takes fifteen minutes to reach them by municipal ferry (see Toronto’s leading festivals), but the contrast between the city and the islands could hardly be more marked, not least because the islands are almost entirely vehicle-free .

Toronto Islands

Originally a sandbar peninsula, the Toronto Islands , which arch around the city’s harbour, were cut adrift from the mainland by a violent storm in 1858. First used as a summer retreat by the Mississauga Nation, the islands went through various incarnations during the twentieth century: they once hosted a baseball stadium, where slugger Babe Ruth hit his first professional home run, saw funfairs featuring horses diving from the pier, and even served as a training base for the Norwegian Air Force during World War II. Today, this archipelago, roughly 6km long and totalling around 3.2 square kilometres, seems worlds away from the bustle of downtown, a perfect spot to relax and unwind – and a place where visitors’ cars are banned ; many locals use wheelbarrows or golf buggies to move their tackle, while others walk or cycle.

The city side of the archipelago is broken into a dozen tiny islets dotted with cottages, leisure facilities, verdant gardens and clumps of wild woodland. By comparison, the other side is a tad wilder and more windswept, consisting of one long sliver of land, which is somewhat arbitrarily divided into three “islands”. From the east these are: Ward’s Island , a quiet residential area with parkland and wilderness; Centre Island , the busiest and most developed of the three; and Hanlan’s Point , which leads round to Toronto City Centre Airport. Hanlan’s Point also holds the city’s best sandy beach – though, as Lake Ontario is generally regarded as being too polluted for swimming, most visitors stick to sunbathing.

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updated 12.05.2021

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Toronto Travel Guide 2023: A Comprehensive Travel Guide to The City's Iconic Landmarks, Cultural Hotspots, And Lively Neighborhoods

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Toronto Travel Guide 2023: A Comprehensive Travel Guide to The City's Iconic Landmarks, Cultural Hotspots, And Lively Neighborhoods Paperback – June 19 2023

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Are you tired of browsing endless websites, reading outdated articles, and feeling overwhelmed with information when planning your trip to Toronto? Do you want a comprehensive and up-to-date guide that solves all your travel-related problems? Look no further than "Toronto Travel Guide 2023"!

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  • Print length 95 pages
  • Language English
  • Publication date June 19 2023
  • Dimensions 15.24 x 0.56 x 22.86 cm
  • ISBN-13 979-8398970739
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  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C9G8QGFH
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Independently published (June 19 2023)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 95 pages
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8398970739
  • Item weight ‏ : ‎ 200 g
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 15.24 x 0.56 x 22.86 cm
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About the author

Alice sprague.

Alice is a fascinating American woman who has lived a life full of adventure and learning. Alice is a highly educated woman who has earned multiple degrees throughout her life. She received her undergraduate degree in journalism from Northwestern University and went on to earn a Master's degree in business from Harvard. Later in life, Alice decided to return to school and received a law degree from Georgetown University. Alice is a firm believer in lifelong learning and always had a thirst for knowledge.

When it comes to her hobbies, Alice is a true lover of travel. She has been all over the world and has seen some amazing sights. Some of her favorite destinations include Japan, Italy, and Australia. Alice loves experiencing new cultures and meeting new people. In addition to traveling, Alice also enjoys hiking and reading. She's an avid bookworm and is always reading something new.

In her leisure time, Alice loves to spend time with her family and friends. She's a big fan of hosting dinner parties and cooking up a storm in the kitchen. She's also very involved in her community and is a volunteer at a local charity organization. Alice has a heart for helping others and is always looking for ways to give back.

Overall, Alice Sprague is a remarkable woman who has lived a life full of adventure, learning, and giving back. Her love of travel, reading, and spending time with loved ones are just a few things that make her the incredible person she is today.

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DK Eyewitness Top 10 Toronto (Pocket Travel Guide) Paperback – Illustrated, 7 May 2020

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DK Eyewitness Top 10 Toronto (Pocket Travel Guide)

A contemporary and dynamic metropolis, Toronto has world-renowned museums and galleries, a celebrated food scene, the evocative Distillery Historic District and a generous assortment of shopping opportunities and family attractions - all within striking-distance of the breathtaking Niagara Falls and scenic Toronto islands. Your DK Eyewitness Top 10 travel guide ensures you'll find your way around Toronto with absolute ease. Our newly updated Top 10 travel guide breaks down the best of Toronto into helpful lists of ten - from our own selected highlights to the best museums and galleries, places to eat, shops and festivals. You'll discover: -Seven easy-to-follow itineraries , perfect for a day-trip, a weekend, or a week -Detailed Top 10 lists of Toronto's must-sees, including detailed descriptions of the Royal Ontario Museum, the CN Tower, Toronto Islands, the Art Gallery of Ontario, Casa Loma, the Distillery Historic District, Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, the CF Toronto Eaton Centre, the Hockey Hall of Fame and Niagara Falls -Toronto's most interesting areas , with the best places for shopping, dining, and sightseeing -Inspiration for different things to enjoy during your trip - including children's attractions, things to do for free and hidden gems off the beaten path -A laminated pull-out map of Toronto, plus five colour area maps - Streetsmart advice : get ready, get around, and stay safe -A lightweight format perfect for your pocket or bag when you're on the move DK Eyewitness Top 10s are the UK's favourite pocket guides and have been helping travellers to make the most of their breaks since 2002. Looking for more on Toronto's culture, history and attractions? Try our DK Eyewitness Canada .

  • Print length 128 pages
  • Language English
  • Publisher DK Eyewitness Travel
  • Publication date 7 May 2020
  • Dimensions 16.1 x 0.5 x 19.8 cm
  • ISBN-10 0241410436
  • ISBN-13 978-0241410431
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Experience the world with DK Eyewitness. DK Eyewitness' highly visual guides show you what others only tell you, with easy-to-read maps, tips and tours to inform and enrich your trip. Our travel writers report on what to see, eat, drink and do around the world, while the very best photographs and illustrations bring cities, regions and countries to life. We publish guides to more than 200 destinations around the world, from handy pocket-sized city guides to comprehensive country guides. DK is the world's leading illustrated reference publisher, producing beautifully designed books for adults and children in over 120 countries.

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  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ DK Eyewitness Travel; Illustrated edition (7 May 2020)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 128 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 0241410436
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0241410431
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 16.1 x 0.5 x 19.8 cm
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Explore the world with DK Eyewitness travel books. Our award-winning travel guides are compiled by real travellers and globe-trotting experts who provide trusted advice to over 200 global destinations. Brimming with stunning photography, detailed maps, sage advice and top tips; our highly visual guides contain everything needed for the trip of your dreams.

DK Eyewitness travel will help you live ‘Like a Local’ in new and exciting cities, or visit those ‘Top 10’ essentials, or plan that epic road trip. Whether it's a holiday of a lifetime, exploring a new continent or a city break, step into your next adventure with DK Eyewitness travel books.

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Nomadic Matt: Travel Cheaper, Longer, Better

Toronto Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

Toronto, Canada skyline lit up at night reflecting over the calm waters of Lake Ontario

With half of its 3 million population (6 million if you count the greater metro area) born outside of Canada and over 160 languages spoken in the city, Toronto is often considered to be the most multicultural city in the world. It offers tons of diversity and culture, with not only a Chinatown and Little Italy, but Greektown, Koreatown, Little India, Little Poland, Little Portugal, Little Malta, and more.

There are plenty of free and cheap activities that can make this an affordable place to visit too. The more I visit, the more I love it.

This travel guide to Toronto can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this incredible city.

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Toronto

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Toronto

People enjoying the scenic Centre Island near Toronto, Canada in the summer

1. Visit the CN Tower

This iconic 550-meter (1,804-foot) tower is a fixture of Toronto’s skyline. Built in 1975, it was the world’s tallest free-standing tower from 1975-2007 (when the Burj Khalifa surpassed it). You can head up to the top to get spectacular panoramic views of the city and enjoy 360-degree views if the weather is good, and if you’re feeling daring, take the circular, hands-free edge walk 116 stories above Toronto. For a unique splurge meal with a view, their 360-degree rotating restaurant has two-course meals for 75 CAD and three courses for 90 CAD. Tickets cost 43 CAD.

2. Tour the Art Gallery of Ontario

Established in 1900, the AGO is home to almost 100,000 items in its permanent collection. It’s one of the biggest museums in Canada, with a rotating calendar of temporary exhibits as well as an artist-in-residence program. Admission is 25 CAD, except for Wednesday nights from 6pm-9pm when admission is free. Visitors 25 and under always enter free too. Get your skip-the-line tickets here .

3. Wander the Royal Ontario Museum

Home to over 6 million items and 40 different galleries, the ROM has exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient China, indigenous Canadians, Medieval Europe, Ancient Egypt, and much more. It’s the best museum in the city and fun for adults and kids alike. They have rotating exhibitions of photography, prints, modern art, and unique themes like the T-Rex exhibit. Tickets are 26 CAD .

4. Spend a day at the beach

The beaches of Lake Ontario are a relaxing place to spend the day during the summer. You can stroll along the boardwalk, eat at one of the many restaurants, or rent a boat and head out on the lake. The best beaches include Woodbine (Toronto’s most popular), as well as Canada’s famous nude beach, Hanlan’s Point, which is reachable by Hanlan’s Point ferry. For something more sporty, Cherry Beach, is the place for kitesurfing, kayaking, windsurfing, etc., and is reachable by bus. Lastly, Sunnyside beach is popular for picnics, stand-up paddle boarding, and its many cafes.

5. Enjoy Toronto Island Park

Spend an inexpensive day at Toronto Island Park and enjoy the city views, hang out on the beach, play volleyball, or picnic. Take a stroll down the boardwalk with its beautiful scenery of Lake Ontario, Thompson Park, and Ward’s Island Beach. Or take advantage of other activities like bird watching, boating, fishing, swimming, gardens, and hiking. There is also a small amusement park that’s great for kids. A return ferry ticket is 8.70 CAD, which can only be purchased online (the ride is just 10-15 minutes). Check ferry schedules as they are seasonal.

Other Things to See and Do in Toronto

1. take a free walking tour.

The first thing I do in a new city is to take a free walking tour. It’s the best way to see the main sights and connect with a local guide who can answer all my questions. Tour Guys offer 90-minute free tours that cover the main downtown sights and give you a solid introduction to the city. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end! If you’d rather do a bike tour, 3.5-hour tours with Toronto Bicycle Tours cost 63 CAD.

2. Enjoy the Harbourfront Centre

This cultural hub is a great spot to visit during the warm summer months. Located on the water at Queens Quay, it hosts over 4,000 events a year, including many free festivals and concerts. Check their website to see what’s happening during your visit. There are also a couple of free art galleries with rotating exhibits (Artport and The Power Plant) and in the winter, they create an outdoor skating rink here too.

3. Bike the Don Valley

These trails are perfect for any outdoorsy travelers. The trails range from easy to very hard and are accessible from the city (beginning at the intersection of Lakeshore Blvd and Cherry St.). While on the trails, you’ll not only enjoy being in an urban green space but you’ll also be treated to a mini art gallery of ever-changing outdoor art installations. If you’re not into biking, there are also walking and running trails. Check out the park map to plan your route .

4. Go ax throwing

If you’re looking for a unique way to spend an afternoon, the city has a couple of different ax-throwing venues, such as BATL, where you can book a timeslot and then compete against your friends in an ax-throwing competition. Think of it like bowling, but with throwing axes. You don’t need to bring your own ax (but you can) and you can also bring your own drinks too! It’s a fun way to spend a couple of hours. One hour costs 30 CAD per person.

5. Wander Kensington Market

One of the oldest and most well-known neighborhoods in the city, this bohemian and multicultural hub offers an eclectic mix of alternative restaurants, street food stalls, and unique shops. There are often free concerts and festivals here during the summer too. It’s one of my favorite places to wander around ( you can take a tour around the area too ). Don’t miss Bunner’s Bakeshop if you have a sweet tooth!

6. See the Hockey Hall of Fame

Canadians take two things seriously: hockey and hockey. Opened in 1943, this museum is dedicated to the history of their favorite sport. It is both a museum and a hall of fame, full of memorabilia, artifacts, and even an interactive game where you can test your slapshot against a virtual goalie. Admission is 25 CAD.

7. Explore St. Lawrence Market and Gallery

Originally established in the early 19th century, this historic public market has endless rows of local treats to taste and buy. . There are three different sections: the North Market, South Market, and St. Lawrence Hall. With over 100 vendors, the markets have everything from bakers, butchers, artisans, produce stalls, and on Sundays, there’s an antique market with over 80 antique dealers. Food tours are available as well . The Market Gallery is located on the second floor above the markets and inside you can learn about the evolution of the city via historical documents, film, photography, and artifacts. Admission to both is free.

8. Eat Chinese food

Toronto’s Chinese community is one of the largest in the city, making up over 12.5% of Toronto’s population. As a result, Chinatown in Toronto is gigantic and still retains a lot of the authenticity that’s missing in many other Chinatowns around the world. After the original Chinatown was demolished in the 1950s to make way for government buildings, the local Chinese population relocated to the intersection of Spadina and Dundas Street West. Definitely visit and eat a few meals — they are delicious and super cheap. For tasty eats, don’t miss Mother’s Dumplings, Happy Lamb Hot Pot, and Red Room.

9. Visit the Ontario Science Center

This interactive museum is perfect for anyone traveling with kids. There’s an indoor rainforest, tornado machine, soundproof tunnel, balance testing machines, planetarium, tons of interactive exhibits, and so much more. There’s also an IMAX Dome which plays educational films. Admission is 22 CAD.

10. Tour the Steam Whistle Brewery

Steam Whistle Brewing is an award-winning independent brewery located in the historic John Street Roundhouse (previously a steam locomotive repair facility), near the Rogers Center and CN Tower. The brewery offers tours for 20 CAD (which includes a sample of their beer). Tours operate on a first-come, first-served basis and can be booked in advance on their website. There is even an art gallery on-site, showcasing local artists. Check out the Steam Whistle Biergarten and Taproom and enjoy a beer and some tasty food like burgers, pasta, fish and chips, or their Steam Whistle brined chicken with gravy.

11. See Casa Loma

Constructed between 1911-1914, Casa Loma is the former estate of Sir Henry Mill Pellatt, an entrepreneur and soldier. Touring this real-life ‘medieval’ castle is awesome. There are four levels to check out through a self-guided tour. Highlights include an indoor conservatory with its own fountain, and the Oak Room, an ornate drawing room with tons of wood paneling that took over three years to complete. They also host an amazing haunted house here every Halloween. Admission is 40 CAD ( get your tickets in advance here .)

12. Enjoy Canada’s Wonderland

Filled with rides, roller coasters, food, games, shops, theaters, a water park, and live shows, this is the largest amusement park in Canada and loads of fun. Located just 25 kilometers (15 miles) from the city, you’ll want to arrive early as the park fills up quickly in the summer! Tickets start at 29.99 CAD.

13. Catch a ball game

Toronto’s major league baseball team, the Blue Jays, have been doing quite well in recent years and their fan base has exploded. Last-minute tickets can be found online with prices for their spring training starting at 25 CAD. Located right downtown and on the waterfront, this is a great activity for sports fans.

14. Attend Word on the Street

Every September, Queen’s Park is host to Canada’s largest annual outdoor book and magazine festival. You can browse through hundreds of books, magazines, and literary exhibitor booths. There are also readings from famous authors like Margaret Atwood and David Suzuki. Admission is free.

15. See the Toronto International Film Festival

Toronto plays host to the stars every September, so if you’re in town be sure to grab tickets — there’s a good chance you’ll see some great films and you might just bump into a celebrity too! With almost 500,000 visitors, this is one of the largest film festivals in the world. Screenings cost 20-30 CAD, with discussions, workshops, and other events to attend as well. The festival has lots of volunteer opportunities available as well.

16. Gorge at Summerlicious & Winterlicious

Every summer and winter, the city’s best restaurants take part in a massive prix-fixe food festival. Over 200 restaurants take part, with plates starting at 23 CAD for a multi-course meal. It’s an amazing way to sample the city’s best dishes on a budget!

  For more information on other cities in Canada, check out these guides:

  • Calgary Travel Guide
  • Montreal Travel Guide
  • Nova Scotia Travel Guide
  • Ottawa Travel Guide
  • Quebec City Travel Guide
  • Vancouver Travel Guide
  • Vancouver Island Travel Guide

Toronto Travel Costs

Toronto, Canada skyline with tons of trees and greenery in the foreground

Hostels – Toronto only has a few hostels. Dorms with 6-8 beds cost between 30-45 CAD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard, and most hostels have self-catering facilities to cook your own food. A couple of hostels include free breakfast. Private rooms begin at 75-90 CAD per night.

Hotels – Budget two-star hotels start at 115-125 CAD per night. These usually include free Wi-Fi and basic amenities like a TV, coffee/tea maker, and occasionally a continental breakfast.

Airbnb is widely available in the city, with private rooms starting at 60 CAD per night, though they average closer to 100 CAD. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 140-180 CAD per night.

Food – The food here is a collage of dishes from other cultures, owing to the country’s diverse history of immigration. There’s a lively Chinatown, a Little Italy, Little Tokyo, Little Portugal, and much more. If there is a cuisine you’re craving, you can find it here. The city is also a hub for vegan and vegetarian fare, with much of it centered in Vegandale (a stretch of Queen Street with a host of vegan places). Be sure to sample some of Canada’s famous staples like poutine (fries with gravy and cheese curds), beaver tails (fried dough with maple syrup), Canadian bacon, and the oddly tasty ketchup chips.

A meal at an inexpensive restaurant is about 20 CAD for something like a burger and fries. A quick hot dog or sausage on the street (which are incredibly popular) costs 3-4 CAD. A three-course meal with a drink is at least 50 CAD.

McDonald’s (and other fast food) costs around 13 CAD for a combo meal. A medium pizza is 15-20 CAD while Chinese food costs 9-15 CAD for a main dish.

Beer is around 7 CAD while a latte/cappuccino is around 4.75 CAD. Bottled water costs 2 CAD.

If you cook for yourself, you can spend around 50-65 CAD on groceries per week, which includes basic staples like bread, veggies, rice, pasta, and some meat.

Some of my favorite restaurants include Bar Chef (high-end, innovative cocktail bar) and Planta Yorkville (upscale and plant-based).

Backpacking Toronto Suggested Budgets

On a backpacking budget of 70 CAD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, cook all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly free activities like relaxing at the beach and taking free walking tours.

On a mid-range budget of 160 CAD per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or hostel room, eat out more, have a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities like visiting the ROM or the CN Tower.

On a “luxury” budget of 325 CAD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car or take more taxis to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in CAD.

Toronto Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Toronto is one of the most expensive cities in the country. However, like any big city, there are plenty of ways to save. Here are some tips to keep you from breaking the bank when you visit Toronto:

  • Get a City Pass – Tourists can purchase a City Pass for 82.91 CAD that includes admission to the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, the Toronto Zoo, and more. You’ll save a ton if you’re planning to visit most of these attractions.
  • Stay with a local – Toronto doesn’t have many hostels (and the hostels aren’t super cheap either) so try to Couchsurf with a local to save money. It’s a great way to learn more about the city and get insider tips from a local.
  • Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to ensure your water is always safe and clean.
  • Eat street food – You can find cheap hot dogs for around 3-4 CAD all around the downtown core. Fill up on them if you’re on a budget.
  • Skip the taxis – Taxis and rideshares in Toronto are expensive. Stick to the TTC (public transportation), which can get you anywhere you need to go.
  • Visit the AGO on Wednesdays – The Art Gallery of Ontario is free on Wednesday evenings. If you want to visit, be sure to visit then to save money.
  • Get a PRESTO card – This public transportation card costs 6 CAD but it offers discounts on rides as well as the ability to get a day pass (13.50 CAD), which saves you a ton if you plan on exploring the whole city.

Where to Stay in Toronto

Toronto doesn’t have a ton of hostels. Here are two suggested places to stay:

  • The Only Backpacker’s Inn
  • The Parkdale Hostellerie

How to Get Around Toronto

A TTC streetcar driving around downtown Toronto, Canada on a rainy day

Public transportation – Toronto has a comprehensive system of buses, trams, and subways that link the entire city called the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission). Cash fares are 3.25 CAD or 3.20 CAD if you have a reloadable PRESTO card. You can purchase a day pass for 13.50 CAD with a PRESTO card as well (the card costs 6 CAD).

The TTC also manages the bus to Pearson Airport, which takes around 45-65 minutes from downtown and costs 3.25 (regular fare). There is also an express train to the airport called the UP Express. It costs 12.35 CAD and takes 25 minutes from downtown.

Taxi – Taxis in Toronto are expensive, starting at 4.44 CAD and costing an additional 1.75 CAD per kilometer. With traffic being relatively slow in the city, it’s best to skip the taxis.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Toronto.

Bicycle – Bike Share Toronto offers daily passes for 7 CAD and 72-hour passes for 15 CAD. They have over 7,185 bikes spread across 630 stations around the city. You can buy a pass via their app .

Car Rental – Car rentals can be found for as little as 30 CAD per day. However, unless you’re planning to head out of the city, I would skip the car rental. Parking is expensive and you don’t need a car to get around.

When to Go to Toronto

Toronto is busiest in the summer, with June-August being the most popular time to visit. The beaches are open, there are tons of events and festivals, and the weather is hot (bordering on stifling due to the humidity). Expect daily averages around 27°C (80°F) though the humidity can make that feel well over 30°C (87°F).

Winters in Toronto are cold, windy, and snowy. It’s not a good time to visit if you want to do lots of outdoor activities, but you’ll avoid the crowds and flights are cheaper as well. Expect daily highs around -7°C (19°F) though it’s common to experience dips to -20°C (-4°F) as well.

Both early fall and late spring are excellent times to visit. The weather is warm, you can do all the outdoor exploration you want, and there aren’t many tourists around. Accommodation is the most plentiful and affordable around this time too and there are lots of farmer’s markets happening as well.

How to Stay Safe in Toronto

Toronto is very safe and you’re unlikely to have any problems while you’re here (it’s actually ranked as one of the safest cities in North America). Your greatest risk is a petty crime like pickpocketing. Just make sure you aren’t flashing your valuables around and that you keep an eye on your wallet when on crowded public transportation.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions you take anywhere apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For more information, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs in the city.

While no areas are off-limits, travelers might want to avoid walking around alone at night in the areas around Regent Park and Jane & Finch as you’re likely to have more petty crime in those areas late at night.

Scams are rare here, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about the common travel scams to avoid right here.

If you’re traveling in the winter, be careful as severe winter storms can occur. Conversely, in the summer, the city can get sweltering. Be sure to stay hydrated when walking around as the humidity can be taxing.

When in doubt, always trust your instincts. If a taxi driver seems shady, get out. If your hotel or accommodation is seedier than you thought, go somewhere else. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, in case of an emergency.

The number for emergency services is 911.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Toronto Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Canada Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more information? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Canada travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Toronto

The 6 Best Hotels in Toronto

Where to Stay in Quebec City: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Quebec City: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Vancouver: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Where to Stay in Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

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Toronto Travel Guide

Toronto often is cast as the “nice” city, and not necessarily the “cool” one—but we think there's plenty cool about being one of the most welcoming cities in the world. More than 46 percent of the nearly three million-strong population is foreign-born, and their reception game is so strong that they refer to immigrants as “newcomers”. This bear hug of a welcome is central to what makes this city what it is: a true meeting ground of different cultures, cuisines, and faiths, a pluralist paradise up north. It's a city with a Little India, Chinatown, Greektown, Koreatown, Portugal Village, two Little Italys, and more than 150 spoken languages; a place where the Indigenous population is routinely celebrated, rather than overlooked. Our take? It’s time for all the other melting pots out there to start taking notes.

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Whatever you call it—Toronna, Hogtown, the Big Smoke, TO, or the 6ix—Toronto is a city of neighborhoods. These enclaves, influenced by diverse ethnicities, blend into each other, creating a unique and special vibe. From the lively Chinatown to the Latin-influenced Kensington Market, the 6ix is more than the film town it’s known to be every September. It is home to some of Canada’s best chefs, an explosive music scene, and abundant visual and performing arts.

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Photo by Sandro Schuh/Unsplash

When’s the best time to go to Toronto?

Fall and spring are the most comfortable, weather-wise. October and November are cool and crisp minus the snow; March and April can be rainy. In early September, stars and star seekers touch down for the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), so book well in advance!

How to get around Toronto

Your best bet to get to the city from Toronto Pearson International Airport is the UP Express rail line, which takes you to downtown’s Union Station for $12.35 CAD. By taxi, the trip downtown will cost anywhere from $60 to $85. Toronto’s sprawling public transportation system, called the TTC, also has a bus that takes you to the subway and then downtown. Have exact change of $3.35 for this bus, called the Airport Express. The smaller Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, served by Porter Airlines and Air Canada, connects to downtown Toronto by ferry or an 853-foot-long pedestrian tunnel.

TTC trains, buses, and streetcars traverse the city. A one-way fare is $3.35, and visitors can buy daily, weekly, or monthly passes in stations. You can buy the pass with a credit or debit card. Cash is also accepted, but you’ll need exact change and won’t get the system’s free two-hour transfer. Taxis are readily available, but Uber or local taxi apps like Beck are also there to ensure safe and reliable rides.

Can’t miss things to do in Toronto

Rising 1,815 feet, the CN Tower is an iconic part of Toronto’s skyline. It’s also home to Edgewalk, a thrilling walkway on the tower’s exterior and an incredible vantage point of the metropolis. Nearby attractions include the Hockey Hall of Fame , Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada , and Toronto’s futuristic City Hall, designed by Finnish architect Viljo Revell in 1965. Its giant, illuminated “TORONTO” sign is a popular selfie spot.

The Beaches Boardwalk offers a nice place to walk or run, plus a great skyline view of the city. Walk south to Ashbridge’s Bay Park from Coxwell and Queen, past the cluster of sailboats and beyond the Boardwalk to “the rocks,” where you’ll find this peaceful view. Make a day of it by packing a picnic, your bike, or a swimsuit to for a dip at Woodbine Beach , the largest of the area’s four beaches, and a 15-minute stroll west. Just north is the Burger’s Priest, known for its tasty hamburgers.

Food and drink to try in Toronto

Toronto is renowned for its widely diverse food scene. From Afghani kabobs to Aboriginal fry bread, Belgian waffles to Bahamian guava duff, Tibetan momos to Taiwanese fried chicken, you’ll find it here. The scene has even birthed its own fusion combos: Kensington Market’s Rasta Pasta is Canada’s first Jamaican-Italian fusion spot. Toronto also boasts three Chinatowns, Little Italy, a Koreatown, Little India, and a kaleidoscope of cuisines in neighborhoods like Scarborough, Brantford, and Markham outside the downtown core.

With 13 Michelin starred-restaurants in the city, Toronto cuisine extends beyond poutine. Canoe is famous for haute Canadian cuisine with views to match. SAP, at the Bay department store, is a runner-up. And a new breed of chef is spurring innovation with restaurants like Alder, Parquet, and Sunny’s Chinese.

Markets come to life in every neighborhood on the weekends. The best-known is the historic St. Lawrence Market, flush with fresh produce and eating options, including the famous peameal bacon sandwich from Carousel Bakery.

Culture in Toronto

There’s plenty to do in the city. The Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario offer fun and thought-provoking exhibitions and events on a regular basis. Bloordale Village, West Queen West, Ossington, and the Distillery District house clusters of small art galleries. The Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts is home to performances by the Canadian Opera Company and the National Ballet of Canada. And the symphony performs at the unusually-shaped Roy Thomson Hall. Toronto’s quirkier sights include the Bata Shoe Museum and the Canada Walk of Fame in the heart of Toronto’s theater district.

Although Toronto is known for its film festival, TIFF, Hot Docs brings film buffs back every April. North by Northeast (NXNE), Canadian Music Week (CMW), and Jazz Fest keep music lovers entertained in the spring and summer. Neighborhood festivals like Kensington Market’s Pedestrian Sundays happen from May to October. In June, Toronto Pride celebrates the diversity of the LGBTQIA+ community. The Canadian National Exhibition (known as the CNE or the Ex) is a fun way to count down the summer and has become known for quirky food creations like the infamous Bacon Ice Cream Sandwich. Art is celebrated year-round at the Contact Photography Festival in May, Nuit Blanche in September, and the Distillery Winter Village in December.

Local travel tips for Toronto

You can discover Toronto’s grittier side through its graffiti and public art installations. For rogue art, check Graffiti Alley just south of Queen West, though you’ll find glimpses of incredible street art scattered throughout the city. The Red Canoe (Tom Thomson’s Canoe) is a favorite installation in the lovely urban greenspace, Canoe Landing Park. The Toronto Sign, and the annual winter art in the lifeguard stations along the lakefront provide art-lovers lots of detours in town.

Local Resources

  • Toronto Life
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  • Destination Toronto’s Ambassadors

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Sunset over Toronto, Canada

It is heralded as one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with over 200 distinct ethnic origins represented among its population.

Although the city is not easy to visit in a motorhome, you can definitely stay a few days prior to pick up an  RV rental in Toronto . Best of both worlds!

THE SHORES OF LAKE ONTARIO

Toronto CN Tower

RIPLEY’S AQUARIUM OF CANADA

Located at the foot of the CN Tower, this huge 135,000 square foot aquarium takes you on a true underwater journey, through different habitats from around the world, where fascinating sea creatures live in more than 5 million liters of water ! You will have the chance to visit different galleries including Canadian Waters , with a section on the fascinating biodiversity of the Great Lakes, the Rainbow Reef of the Indo-Pacific Ocean, Dangerous Lagoon , the Discovery Centre and its interactive exhibits, Ray Bay , Planet Jellies , and the " Curious Creatures " exhibit, which will introduce you to the life of reporter, adventurer, explorer, draftsman and great collector Robert Ripley (1890-1949) in addition to many curious creatures from the four corners of the world.

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., but closes earlier on occasion for private events.

Harbourfront Center

Toronto Island Marina

The Harbourfront Centre houses marinas, cafés, restaurants, craft and antique shops, studios, elegant residential complexes, gardens and green spaces.

The Toronto Islands

Downtown Toronto from the islands

Ontario Place

Aerial view of Ontario Place

Toronto Dominion Center

The dark glass towers of the Toronto Dominion Center were the first major structures to be built in Toronto's financial district, one of the largest business communities in North America. Some 21,000 people work in the complex, which also serves as headquarters and corporate offices for a number of influential Canadian businesses.

Hockey Hall of Fame

The Hockey Hall of Fame, Toronto

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Toronto City Hall

100 Queen Street West, Toronto

Eaton Center

Toronto Eaton Centre

Open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

ART GALLERY OF ONTARIO

 Art Gallery of Ontario

Open Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 to 5 p.m., Wednesdays and Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

BATA SHOE MUSEUM

Musée de la chaussure Bata

Open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.

ROYAL ONTARIO MUSEUM

 Musée royal de l'Ontario

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. between July 1 and the first Monday in September. Closed on Mondays in low season.

Casa Loma, Toronto

Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

ONTARIO SCIENCE CENTRE

Since 1969, this temple of science has been inviting visitors of all ages to explore the more than 500 interactive activities in its eight exhibition halls . It offers a wide variety of science workshops , demonstrations and shows , as well as an IMAX theater , a restaurant and cafés.

Open Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursdays from noon to 7 p.m.

TORONTO ZOO

The Toronto Zoo's mission is "connecting people, animals and conservation science to fight extinction": with more than 5,000 animals belonging to 450 species from around the world, you could say they're doing their part. The zoo is divided into seven different geographic regions, each showcasing animals and plants from that area of the world: Africa, the Americas, Australasia, the Canadian Domain, Eurasia Wilds, Indo-Malaya, and Tundra Trek. There are also opportunities to meet some of the animals and their keepers, a Kids Zoo and Splash Island water park, a zipline... Something to please everyone!

Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (until 7 p.m. in summer).

Optional activities

  • Tour of the CN Tower
  • Dine in the sky in Toronto
  • Guided tour of Toronto

Where to eat

  • $ Inexpensive
  • $$ Moderate
  • $$$ Upscale
  • $$$$ Fine dining

SEVEN LIVES ($)

This tiny restaurant in Kensington Market is immensely popular for its famous and delicious tacos. The taco menu features a variety of options such as meat, fish, shrimp, octopus, and for vegetarians, mushrooms and cactus, all accompanied by homemade salsas. Their signature dish is their Gobernador taco with house-smoked tuna, grilled shrimp and cheese. They also serve a tasty seafood ceviche served with tostadas and a dish of the day. As there is often a lineup and there is no real seating area, you can enjoy your meal while strolling through the market.

Open Wednesday-Sunday from noon to 8 p.m.

AMSTERDAM BREWHOUSE ($$)

The Amsterdam Brewing Co. has been brewing its own beers since 1986 and you can taste them at their restaurant, the Amsterdam Brewhouse. The chef works together with their brewers to create dishes that are prepared not only using their beers, but also with ingredients that are used in the brewing process. The unpretentious pub-style menu features wood fired pizzas, burgers and sandwiches as well as meat, pasta, fish and tofu dishes. In the summer, you can sit on their huge terrace overlooking the vast Lake Ontario and enjoy your beer.

Open daily from 11 a.m.

Momofuku Noodle Bar ($$-$$$)

When New York star chef David Chang decided to transplant his famous noodle bar to Toronto, it was an instant success. Momofuko Toronto is a 6,600 square foot 3-storey restaurant complex featuring 3 restaurants (Momofuku on the ground floor, Daisho and Shoto on the third floor) and a cocktail bar. Momofuku is a cafeteria-style restaurant with long communal tables. Must-try menu items include the chicken buns, ginger scallion noodles, Hong Kong egg, rice cakes, mackerel, chicken wings and rice pudding.

Open Fridays and Saturdays for lunch from noon to 3 p.m. Open evenings daily from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. (to 10:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays).

RICHMOND STATION ($$-$$$)

This bustling downtown restaurant is always committed to offering delicious cuisine with a focus on great ingredients and warm hospitality. Chef Carl Heinrich concocts dishes such as smoked cheese perogies with cauliflower cream, Brussels sprouts and rösti; Station burger with homemade rolls, garnish and rosemary fries; two-way duck with sweet and sour rutabaga and roasted cabbage; braised rabbit fettuccine with oyster mushrooms and butternut squash. (As the menu may change, dishes are named as examples.)

Open daily from 4:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m (from 3:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays).

360 The restaurant at the CN Tower ($$$-$$$$)

360 offers delicious market-fresh Canadian cuisine at a height of 350 metres! Enjoy a glass of Canadian wine as you admire a unique 360-degree panoramic view of the city. Open for lunch and dinner; reservation is recommended. Access to the LookOut and GlassFloor is free with the purchase of a prix fixe !

Open daily for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and for dinner from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Canoe ($$$$)

Located on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower in Toronto's financial district, Canoe offers spectacular views of the city and inventive regional Canadian cuisine created by the chef. The menu, from succulent foie gras to grilled-to-perfection meats to spectacular seafood, is simply prepared and spot on. The tastes are nuanced, surprising and textured. And, thanks to a presentation that is gallery-worthy, always lovely to admire. The service is unpretentious and professional.

Open Tuesday-Friday from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

*** Hours may vary ***

Where to sleep .

  • Le Germain Toronto Maple Leaf Square
  • Chelsea Hotel Toronto
  • Hilton Toronto

Festivals calendar

Toronto jazz festival.

Dates: June 24 to July 3, 2022

Created in 1987, the Toronto Jazz Festival presents an impressive lineup of over 1,500 artists, including some of the greatest jazz celebrities in the world. Today more than 500,000 jazz lovers come together each year over the 10 days of festivities to attend one or more of the 350 concerts held all across the city.

Pride Toronto

Dates: end of June 2022

Toronto's Pride Week is one of the premier arts and cultural festivals in Canada. It is not surprising that the event is an unqualified success, year after year: attendance of over a million people, street festival, live entertainment, street fair, costumes, Pride Parade, and much more...

Toronto Caribbean Carnival

Dates: late July / early August 2022

Canada's largest city is home to this exuberant celebration of Caribbean music and culture, featuring steel bands, a King and Queen competition, concerts and musical boat cruises. The festivities culminate with the spectacular carnival parade. The largest Caribbean festival in North America.

When to visit

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the anthill

(Translated by Google) A Canadian city that seems limitless...

Unavoidable

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The Gooderham Building (Flatiron), a Romanesque style building, in East Toronto on a rainy day in the Financial District.

© Scott Heaney/Shutterstock

Bright, bustling and known for its diverse dining scene, outstanding museums and happening nightlife, Toronto is a cosmopolitan city whose residents have roots across the globe.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Toronto, Ontario, Canada - July 13, 2012:   The Distillery District, in Toronto, Ontario, is named after this area's history in distilling spirits.   After falling into a state of disrepair by the turn of the millennium, efforts began to redevelop the area and create a destination for locals and tourists alike.  The old brick Victorian structures were converted into retail, commercial and residential space.  Many galleries, bars, restaurants and cafes line the area.  It hosts various cultural events and has become a 'must see' district for those visiting Toronto...This photo shows a summer scene where district restaurants and bars have patio's set up allowing patrons to sit outdoors and enjoy a night out eating and people watching.   The roads here are for pedestrians only.

Distillery District

Old Town, Corktown & Distillery District

Centered on the 1832 Gooderham and Worts distillery – once the largest distillery in the British Empire – the 5-hectare Distillery District is one of…

October 15, 2013: Exterior of the Royal Ontario Museum on a sunny day.

Royal Ontario Museum

Opened in 1914, the multidisciplinary ROM is Canada's biggest natural-history museum and one of the largest museums in North America. You'll either love…

toronto travel guide book

Entertainment & Financial Districts

Dominating Toronto's skyline, the CN Tower is a marvel. At a height of 553 metres, the communications spire stands over the city like a beacon. Queues can…

toronto travel guide book

Hockey Hall of Fame

The mecca of Canada's national sport, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a Canadian institution. Even those unfamiliar with the rough, super-fast sport are likely…

toronto travel guide book

Toronto's favorite green space is a wonderful spot to unfurl a picnic blanket, swim, play tennis, bike around, skate on 14-hectare Grenadier Pond or – in…

St Lawrence Market.

St Lawrence Market Complex

Old York's sensational St Lawrence Market has been a neighborhood meeting place for over two centuries. The restored, high-trussed 1845 South Market…

toronto travel guide book

Art Gallery of Ontario

Kensington Market & Chinatown

The AGO houses collections both excellent and extensive (bring your stamina). Renovations of the facade, designed by the revered Frank Gehry and completed…

toronto travel guide book

Evergreen Brick Works

East Toronto & Rosedale

Famed for the transformation of its once-deteriorating heritage buildings into a prime location for all things geotourism, this dynamic, LEED-certified…

Top picks from our travel experts

The 15 best experiences in toronto.

July 11, 2015: People riding the Behemoth Roller Coaster at Canada's Wonderland amusement park.

Canada's Wonderland

Amusement-park lovers will want to trek to this, Canada's largest, featuring more than 60 rides, including the mammoth Leviathan, with a peak height of…

Lady Pellatt Suite at Casa Loma.

Toronto's only castle may never have housed royalty, but it certainly has grandeur, lording over the Annex from a cliff that was once the shoreline of the…

Graffiti Alley

Graffiti Alley

Possibly the most popular place to check out street art in Toronto (and there are many), this back alley has a magnificent collection of colorful murals…

Mill Street Brewery

Mill Street Brewery

With 13 specialty beers made on-site in the atmospheric Distillery District, these guys are a leading light in local microbrewing. Order a sample platter…

Shoes of Justin Timberlake and Elton John in Bata Shoe Museum.

Bata Shoe Museum

It's important in life to be well shod, a stance the Bata Shoe Museum takes seriously. Impressively designed by Raymond Moriyama to resemble a stylized…

7 of the best free things to do in Toronto

Red Coat, historical re-enactment - Toronto, Ontario

Fort York National Historic Site

Established by the British in 1793 to defend the then town of York, Fort York was almost entirely destroyed during the War of 1812 when a small band of…

Market Gallery

Market Gallery

The Market Gallery is a tiny museum with rotating exhibits of paintings, photographs, documents and historical relics of Toronto. It's located at St…

Todmorden Mills Heritage Site

Todmorden Mills Heritage Site

In an idyllic setting by the Don River, Todmorden Mills is a late-18th-century grist mill turned saw mill, then brewery and distillery, then paper mill…

Spadina Museum

Spadina Museum

Atop the Baldwin Steps, this gracious home and its Victorian-Edwardian gardens were built in 1866 as a country estate for financier James Austin and his…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Things to Know

While Toronto is generally easy to navigate there are a few things you should know before you go.

Best Neighborhoods

Toronto's size might seem daunting, but explore each of its fascinating neighborhoods to find out what makes Torontonians tick.

Get out of the city and experience some of the best parts of Ontario with these top day trips from Toronto.

Transportation

Toronto's best things to do are spread across the city, and we've got the best advice on how to get around the city easily.

Free Things to Do

With free admission times at some museums and atmospheric historic sites that you just can't miss, these are the top free experiences in Toronto.

Traveling with Kids

Toronto is famed for food and nightlife, but it's also great for family fun. From museums to beaches, here are the top things to do in Toronto with kids.

Where to go in Canada’s largest city for delicious speciality foods, books, Canada-made gifts and more.

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This Diverse Canadian City Has Something for Everyone — Including a Booming Food and Beverage Scene

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Best Time to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

What makes your city great? Ask anyone who hails from Toronto and they'll proudly say diversity. With 2.9 million residents from more than 250 ethnic groups, speaking more than 180 languages, it's no surprise that the city's motto is "Diversity, Our Strength".

In recent years, Canada's largest city has experienced a shift in character, output and self-confidence, creating a fascinating and increasingly complex place. This may be due to amazing musical and cultural talents that shoot to international success – most notably Drake and The Weeknd – who help amplify Toronto's cool factor. Or unforgettable sporting moments, such as when the Toronto Raptors won the 2019 NBA Championship, the first NBA finals played outside of the U.S.

This shift is also a sign of maturity due to economic, intellectual, and educational development. The city is known as "Silicon Valley of the North", because of its growing technology hub, and "Hollywood North" because of its strong film and TV industry. The food and beverage scene is also having its own renaissance that will blow your taste buds away, as local chefs and business owners draw inspiration from the multicultural city they've grown up in and reflect this in their food.

Regardless of what spurred Toronto's caterpillar-to-butterfly moment, the city has a unique character and multiethnic voice that you'll experience in no other place. T+L's Toronto City Guide shows you what makes the city interesting, vibrant, fun and so very special.

Eastern Standard Time

Not surprisingly, visiting Toronto during the warmer months of the year (late spring to mid-autumn) is the best time to experience the city. Although winter is cold and can be a pain, there are just as many things to see and do, just make sure to bundle up!

In spring/summer (May to mid-September) an innumerable amount of festivals, events and performances happen every weekend. Notable ones to catch are the Beaches International Jazz Festival , Toronto Caribbean Carnival (known as Caribana), Luminato , Pride , Toronto International Film Festival , and many other neighborhood events that are just as fun and delightful.

Winter activities in the city (December to February) are just as plentiful – just make sure to wear a good winter coat and thermal wear. Some great experiences include Toronto Christmas Market , Toronto Light Festival , Winterlicious , and outdoor ice-skating in public spaces such as The Bentway . This is also a perfect time to explore Toronto's excellent museums and galleries, such as the Bata Shoe Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario , who host a slew of indoor programs and activities for kids and adults.

Currency: Canadian

(Check the current exchange rate )

Canada does not have one or two dollar bills. This currency has been converted into coins; the loonie ($1) and toonie ($2).

In 2012, the Government of Canada phased out the penny from the country's currency system for economic and environmental reasons. As a result, cash payments or cash transactions are rounded up or down to the nearest five-cent increment.

Canadian currency is colorful and pays homage to historical figures and key moments in the country's history. In November 2018, The Bank of Canada released a new vertical $10 bill featuring Viola Desmond, a Canadian civil rights activist and Black businesswoman from Nova Scotia.

Contactless payment: Contactless or tap payment is a common payment system used by Canadians and nearly all retailers in the country. Contactless payments can be made by using major credit or debit cards, and mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay.

The dollar limit for contactless payment at a point of sale is typically between $100-$250 CAD. If a purchase exceeds this amount, merchants will either require you to sign a receipt or enter a PIN number. Remember that bank fees and currency conversion may apply, check with your financial institution for more details.

Language: English

Calling codes : 011 international call prefix, +1 country calling code

Essential stores : looking for essential toiletries, health products, over-the-counter medicine, a pharmacy or other convenience items? There are a number of retail drug stores in Toronto where you can pick up these items. Look out for Guardian and I.D.A. , Rexall , and Shoppers Drugs Mart (aka: Shoppers) to purchase them.

Directions : for the most part, the development of Toronto's streets is based on a straight line, grid pattern. The benefit of this street system makes it easy to navigate in and around the city. If you lose your bearings while downtown, look at the direction a major road slopes; downward is south, upward is north.

Phrases to know

The Six or The 6ix : a nickname used to describe the City of Toronto, pronounced as "The Six." This was coined by international rapper, singer, and Toronto native Drake who developed the term based on the city's area codes 416 and 647.

The 905 : areas of the suburbs outside of the City of Toronto whose phone area code starts with 905.

Big Smoke, T-Dot, T-O, T.O. and The 416 : alternate nicknames used to describe the City of Toronto.

Double-double : a coffee order with two creams and two sugars. Traditionally, a double-double is used to describe a coffee order from Tim Hortons , an iconic Canadian coffee chain.

Streetcars : Toronto has a network of above-ground streetcars which run throughout the downtown core. They are referred to as "streetcars" not "trams."

Toque : another word for a beanie.

Torontonian : a native or resident of the City of Toronto. When pronouncing this word it is correct to say it phonetically.

Kristjan Veski/Travel + Leisure

Toronto Transit Commission (TTC): the TTC is the city's official transit operator, running a network of city buses, streetcars and subways. A single adult fare costs $3.25, a day pass costs $13.50 and children under 12 years of age ride free. Purchase TTC fares at collector booths in subways stations. Bus and streetcar operators do not sell fares or carry change. When exploring Downtown Toronto, factor in approximately 20 -25 minutes of travel time to your destination due to wait and transfer times.

  • Stay informed: the TTC has a SMS system where you can receive real-time, route data for the next bus or streetcar arriving at a specific stop, directly to your mobile phone (standard rates apply). To receive arrival times for the next TTC vehicle at your location, text the multi-digit transit stop number to 898882 (TXTTTC).

PRESTO card: a contactless smart card with an automated fare payment feature allows you to use public transit system in and around Toronto such as the TTC, GO Transit and UP Express. PRESTO cards can be bought from fare-vending machines found inside all TTC subway stations. Find out more about PRESTO .

Cycling: cycling is a popular mode of transportation in the city, even in the middle of winter! It's advised that you don't bike on sidewalks; there are dedicated lanes for cycling (protected and painted) that you can use. View the Toronto Cycle Network map to view and plan your route. Also, here are several things to remember when biking in the city:

  • Dooring: proceed with caution and pay attention when biking by parked or stopped cars; many cyclists have been accidentally doored by passengers exiting a car, a collision which can result in serious injury.
  • TTC streetcar tracks: cycling in and around TTC streetcar tracks can be just as damaging as being doored by a car. Streetcar tracks are indented grooves in the road with embedded metal plates. Bike tires have been known to get caught in streetcar tracks and maneuvering around them can also be hazardous leading to a collision with fellow cyclists

Bike Share Toronto: this is the most widely used public bike-sharing system in the city. Users can purchase a single trip ($3.25), day pass ($7) or a three-day pass ($15) to access more than 6,800 bikes and 600 stations so you can cycle throughout Toronto.

Ride share: popular car-sharing companies such as Lyft and Uber operate in Toronto, and are easily available on demand via their respective mobile apps.

GO Transit (Greater Toronto Transit Authority): is the regional provider for the Greater Toronto Area, operating a network of buses and trains. Traveling on the GO is an easy and comfortable mode of travel from the suburbs to Downtown Toronto and even within the city limits. GO trains and buses are identifiable by their green and white design, and many GO vehicles and stations connect with the TTC, particularly Union Station in Downtown Toronto.

Walking: Toronto is a walkable city with sidewalks everywhere permitting pedestrian safety. Factor in 10-20 minutes of walk time between subway stops, to and from your destination. If you decide to walk the city during the fall, spring or winter time, don footwear that is warm, ideally waterproof and has traction because sidewalks can get icy, slushy or wet.

Taxis: there is rarely a shortage of available taxis in the city. Several major and best-known operators are Beck Taxi , Co-op Cabs and Diamond Taxi .

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ): this airport is situated 16.7 mi (27 km) from downtown and is the main international hub in and out of the city.

Union-Pearson Express (UP Express): this train transports travelers to and from Toronto Pearson International Airport to Toronto Union Station (downtown) within 25 minutes. It is the most reliable mode of transportation, involving minimal hassle and is highly recommended, especially if you want to avoid the city's notorious traffic jams on local streets and highways.

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ): a small regional airport located on Toronto Island in the heart of the city, Billy Bishop serves 20 cities in Canada and the U.S. Billy Bishop Airport is situated at the foot of Bathurst Street and can be accessed via a pedestrian tunnel which runs underneath a portion of Lake Ontario. Another more scenic way to travel to Billy Bishop is to take the 90-second ferry ride that covers 396 ft. (121 m), one of the world's shortest ferry rides.

The Annex Hotel

Address: 296 Brunswick Ave, Toronto, ON M5S 2M7, Canada Phone: +1 647-694-9868 Book Now

The location and character of The Annex Hotel situates you to move and blend in the city like a local. With 24 rooms, it offers guests a hybrid experience of an AirBnb and boutique hotel with a few interesting nuances; there is no room service, no TVs, no phones, no parking-lot, no gym, and no front desk. Check-in is completed online and rooms include iPad Pros, turntables, and a curation of books. Food and beverage offerings on-site include The Annex's lobby bar and café.

Kimpton Saint George

Address: 280 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1V8, Canada Phone: +1 416-968-0010 Book Now

The Kimpton Saint George delivers five-star service, but with the feel of staying at a stylish friend's home. The hotel proudly takes on the personality of the city with many local and loving design touches; from the beautiful art deco furniture to all the in-room art created by local artists. The location of the Kimpton Saint George straddles two contrasting neighborhoods; explore affluent Yorkville to the east or the unpretentious Annex to the west, and when you return from exploring the city eat on-site at The Fortunate Fox , an elevated gastro pub popular with locals.

Bisha Hotel

Address: 80 Blue Jays Way, Toronto, ON M5V 2G3, Canada Phone: (844) 275-1726 Book Now

The striking Bisha Hotel is known for its sumptuous interior and elevated guest experience. This luxury boutique hotel contains a rooftop pool and 96 rooms whose décor is inspired by pop art and cultural icons, such as Andy Warhol. It's also a popular culinary destination with four on-site dining options; the Gatsby-esque lobby bar Mister C. and a café called French Made occupy the first floor; fine dining establishment Akira Back occupies the second floor; and on the 44th floor is KŌST , where you can enjoy an almost 360° view of the city.

The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto

Address: 181 Wellington St W, Toronto, ON M5V 3G7, Canada Phone: +1 416-585-2500 Book Now

The Ritz-Carlton is situated in the heart of Toronto's financial and entertainment districts and is a minute's walk away from many attractions. With stunning views of Lake Ontario and the downtown skyline, this five-star hotel contains more than 260 rooms, updated Club Level guest rooms and suites. The hotel's Spa MyBlend by Clarins is exclusive to North America and on-site dining options include EPOCH Bar & Kitchen Terrace, an urban retreat great for weekend brunch on the patio, and TOCA , an Italian restaurant and home to Canada's only cheese cave in a hotel.

Shangri-La Hotel

Address: 188 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5H 0A3, Canada Phone: +1 647-788-8888 Book Now

Staying at the Shangri-La Hotel is akin to being whisked away to Asia without the 14-hour airplane ride. Asian décor governs the hotel's 202 rooms and suites – wood furniture accents shaped to replicate old Chinese coins make eye-catching visuals. Make sure to book a treatment at the Miraj Hammam Spa By Caudalie Paris , an oasis of relaxation. There are also plenty of on-site dining options such Bosk , and Momofuko Noodle Bar .

The St. Regis Toronto

Address: 325 Bay St., Toronto, ON M5H 4G3, Canada Phone: +1 416-306-5800 Book Now

In the heart of the city is The St. Regis Toronto, a towering five-star hotel with 65 floors, 134 guest rooms, and 124 suites, plus a spa, fitness center, and indoor pool. The arrival of this hotel brings an elevated level of glamour to the city; from its iconic butler service, Iridium Spa, and iconic rituals, such as its weekend afternoon tea and daily evening champagne sabrage. The hotel's LOUIX LOUIS restaurant serves contemporary American cuisine on the 31st floor. Here, you'll be wowed by its grand two-storey bar which possesses one of the largest dark spirits collections in Canada and is home to the infamous King's Cake dessert, a sublime 13-layer chocolate cake.

The Broadview Hotel

Address: 106 Broadview Ave, Toronto, ON M4M 2G1, Canada Phone: +1 416-362-8439 Book Now

The Broadview Hotel is an upscale boutique property housed in a 127-year-old Toronto landmark with a colorful history. Now, the hotel is a happening spot with 58 guest rooms outfitted with art deco inspired furnishings, record players and even nipple tassels – an ode to its former persona. The hotel is also a foodie destination with three restaurants on-site: The Civic, Broadview Bistro + Bar and The Rooftop. This property is great for travelers seeking accommodation outside of the immediate downtown core, who want a slower pace.

Omni King Edward Hotel

Address: 37 King St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1E9, Canada Phone: +1 416-863-9700 Book Now

Built in 1903, Toronto's first luxury hotel represents the city's historical past; notable past guests have included Elvis Presley and Elizabeth Taylor. The hotel lobby is designed in an Edwardian baroque style with a nearly two-storey ceiling and portraits of British monarchs – the King Eddy (as it is affectionately called) was awarded 2018 Best Historic Hotels Worldwide Hotel in the Americas . There are a total of 301 luxury guest rooms and suites, ranging in size from deluxe king (300 square feet) to the royal suite (1,800 square feet).

The Drake Hotel

Address: 1150 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1J3, Canada Phone: +1 416-531-5042 Book Now

The Drake Hotel is one of the most energetic and happening mid-range boutique hotels in the city with a longstanding reputation for its vibrant arts and culture scene – the ideal location for guests who want to be in the thick of things. Rooms range in size from a compact 150 square feet to a cozy 385 square feet designed in a mid-century style. Absent of an on-site gym, the hotel has partnerships with local businesses to offer complimentary yoga and spinning classes. The on-site dining options are well loved by the local community; the Drake Café, Drake Hotel Lounge, and Drake Hotel Sky Yard. The hotel is also home to the Drake Underground , one of the city's premiere small concert venues.

The Anndore House

Address: 15 Charles St E, Toronto, ON M4Y 1S1, Canada Phone: +1 416-924-1222 Book Now

The Anndore House is a stone's throw from restaurants, shops, public transportation, and vibrant neighborhoods. The hotel's design, décor, and amenities take inspiration from the building's 1950s beginnings; it was once the hot spot for many celebrities and jazz musicians of the era. Now, this boutique hotel is cool and contemporary with 113 loft-style rooms and Instagrammable bathroom features. The Anndore House also hosts Crow's Nest Barbershop , a café, and the swanky Constantine Restaurant and Lounge .

Four Seasons Hotel

Address: 60 Yorkville Ave, Toronto, ON M4W 0A4, Canada Phone: +1 416-964-0411 Book Now

The global flagship hotel for the Four Seasons is in the epicenter of Toronto's posh Yorkville neighborhood. Large in physical presence but intimate on the inside, this 55-storey hotel is family friendly and contains 259 spacious light-filled rooms; upscale toiletries by Le Labo are offered, storage space is plenty, and in-room iPads allow guests to use the Four Seasons Chat, an instant message service. The hotel has a 3,500-square-foot state of the art fitness center, an indoor pool, and a spa with 17 treatment rooms, one of the largest in the city. Dining on-site is exceptional with the presence of Café Boulud , which serves delicious soulful French cuisine.

Address: 1194 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1N2, Canada Phone: +1 647-346-1881 Website

Alma is Latin for "nourishing" or "kind" and the food prepared in this charming 28-seat restaurant embodies its name. Owned and operated by chef Anna Chen, the cuisine is an eclectic mix based on her diverse career and background incorporating Indian, Italian, and Chinese flavors. Everything is created in-house such as pastas, stracciatella cheese, miso, and soy sauces – you are strongly encouraged to order the flatbread which comes piping hot to your table.

Address: 163 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5V 2L6, Canada Phone: +1 416-260-2222 Website

Owned by chef Patrick Kriss, Alo is a contemporary French restaurant that has received many national and international accolades. Two types of dining experiences are offered to guests; the first is in Alo's intimate dining room to experience a blind, tasting menu highlighting seasonal ingredients with optional wine pairings; the second takes place in the adjacent barroom, where you order from an à la carte menu. Alo staff is knowledgeable and attentive to guests' needs, and food is developed to perfection creating a symphony of flavors that awe your taste buds from start to finish. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.

Address: 163 Spadina Ave. 1st Floor, Toronto, ON M5V 2A5, Canada Phone: +1 416-260-3444 Website

Aloette combines haute cuisine with your favorite everyday dishes. Constructed like a passenger train dining car, the restaurant is open for lunch and dinner where service is quick, friendly, and the food is consistently delicious. Menu items such as the iceberg wedge salad and burger and fries are classic favorites while seasonal dishes keep this spot fresh. Maximize your gastronomic experience by sharing plates with friends and leave room for dessert – you don't want to miss out on Aloette's to-die-for lemon meringue pie.

Anestis Taverna

Address: 526 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4K 1P8, Canada Phone: +1 416-461-1996 Website

Located in the city's Greektown neighborhood (aka: The Danforth), Anestis Taverna's Santorini-inspired décor emits a relaxing atmosphere complimented by a roomy indoor and outdoor space. Specializing in home-cooked Greek food, it's a family-friendly spot with attentive wait staff and an open kitchen concept where you can see cooks prepare classic dishes such as souvlaki and grilled whole fish. Make sure to order the saganaki (flambe Keflotiri cheese) so you can shout "OPA!"

Address: 505 College St, Toronto, ON M6G 1A5, Canada Phone: +1 647-344-8001 Website

Step into Bar Raval and you're transported into a stunning, Antoni Gaudí-inspired space. This popular day-to-night neighborhood spot is the only Canadian bar to be named to The World's 50 Best Bars 2018 and won Canada's Best Bar three years in a row. Inspired by Spain's dining culture, guests stand around high-top counters, barrels, and the beautiful mahogany wood bar which encourages lively discussions and a gusto eating experience; delectable Spanish tapas and pintxos are served, and other popular menu items include the hamburguesa and basque cheesecake. Reservations are not required.

Beach Hill Smokehouse

Address: 172 Main St, Toronto, ON M4E 2W1, Canada Phone: +1 416-792-8275 Website

Authentic Texas barbecue is a rarity in Toronto; therefore, it's no surprise that food lovers from around the city flock to Beach Hill Smokehouse on a regular basis to taste its delicious dishes. The smoky scent of barbecue hits your nose nearly a block away from the restaurant and inside picnic tables for seating sets the tone for friendly and warm service. It's recommended that you place your orders in advance or arrive early to nab popular menu items such as burnt ends, brisket, ribs, and their well-known Southern mac and cheese.

Address: 604 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1M6, Canada Phone: +1 416-865-1600 Website

Buca Osteria & Enoteca is a long-standing food fixture located in Toronto's popular King West neighborhood. Buca is consistently regarded as one of Canada's top restaurants by critics and diners. Its Italian menu changes regularly due to ingredient seasonality; however, staples which never fail to please the taste buds are the nodini (garlic bread knots), bigoli (duck pasta) and parmigiana di melanzane (fried eggplant with ricotta) – yum!

Address: 169 Niagara St, Toronto, ON M5V 1C9, Canada Phone: +1 416-703-4222 Website

Tucked away on a quiet residential street you'll find one of Canada's best restaurants . Operated by a husband and wife team, Edulis focuses its food philosophy and practice on authenticity and seasonality, emphasizing seafood and vegetables. The coziness and intimacy of the restaurant's space (32 seating capacity), thoughtful servers, and sublime cuisine will charm you. Guests can dine from two choices of set menus, usually five or seven courses. Reservations are accepted one month in advance and are strongly encouraged.

KINKA IZAKAYA

Address: 559 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M5S 1Y6, Canada Phone: +1 647-343-1101 Website

Located in The Annex neighborhood, KINKA IZAKAYA is well-known for its electric and energetic atmosphere where you're guaranteed a fun and libatious time in an authentic Japanese pub setting. There's more than sushi on the menu, it has an extensive selection of Japanese pub fare from edamame to karaage (fried chicken), and fusion dishes such as carbonara udon and unagi bibimbap. There is a large selection of Japanese beers and signature cocktails – if you're up for the challenge, ask for the potent samurai bomb, a three-layered alcoholic sake bomb – kanpai!

Address: 92 Ossington Ave, Toronto, ON M6J 2Z4, Canada Phone: +1 416-537-0134 Website

Heart, soul, and reverence to family history are at the core of La Cubana's identity. Sister and brother, chefs Corinna and Pablo Mozo, modeled the restaurant after their grandfather's luncheonette which operated in the 1940s and 1950s in Cuba. Look no further for Cuban comfort food served with a warm and friendly smile; conch fritters, pressed Cubano sandwiches and the guava BBQ beef short rib plate will satisfy your stomach. Make sure to save room for the house-made buttermilk donuts and key lime bar – both sweets are delicious!

Address: 794 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1V1, Canada Phone: +1 647-350-8999 Website

Owner and chef Craig Wong showcases his Caribbean and Asian heritage in the food created for this fun, lively spot full of swag. Caribbean soul food is an apt description for the mouth-watering dishes on the menu; the award-winning juicy jerk chicken, Jamaican patty double down, O.G. crispy cauliflower, and Chinese pineapple bun burger are all a must-eat.

Address: 478 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1L7, Canada Phone: +1 416-367-0505 Website

Tucked down a quiet laneway is Patria, a Spanish tapas restaurant with a spacious outdoor courtyard patio and even larger indoor dining area with soaring ceilings. The restaurant's menu has an extensive range of choice for brunch and dinner; house marinated olives arrive warm to the table and embutidos (Spanish charcuterie) is mouth watering. Ordering the paella here is a must and requires 45 minutes to cook; choose from several types focusing on seafood and meat flavors, there's even vegetarian paella for those with dietary requirements. Patria also has an extensive Spanish wine list that provides a lovely accompaniment to your meal.

Pizzeria Libretto

Address: 155 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5H 3B7, Canada Phone: +1 416-551-0433 Website

Pizzeria Libretto is one of the most well-known and loved pizza joints in the city, mainly due to the fact that they serve Verace Pizza Napolitana (VPN) , certified Neapolitan style pizza – the first in Toronto. There are several Pizzeria Libretto locations throughout the city, but the restaurant's University Avenue spot is the most central with a bright and airy feel. Everything is made in house and the pizzas are cooked in a wood-burning oven; choose from more than a dozen types, from classic pepperoni to the sweet and savory duck confit pizza.

Rendez-Vous Ethiopian and Eritrean Restaurant

Address: 1408 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J 1M9, Canada Phone: +1 416-469-2513 Website

Rendez-Vous is one of Toronto's best and longest running Ethiopian restaurants. Since 2001, it has served classic dishes such as shio wot (milled chickpeas) and doro wat (stewed chicken), the national dish of Ethiopia – all are accompanied with injera, a traditional spongy sourdough flatbread that you use to scoop up your meal. One of the special hallmarks of Rendez-Vous is the post-meal coffee ceremony which you can order; servers roast coffee beans table side, which are then ground, brewed, and served in a traditional clay pot accompanied with salted butter popcorn.

Address: 323 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5T 2E9, Canada Phone: +1 416-977-1128

Day or night locals flock to get their dim sum fix at Rol San; this unfussy and classic Chinese restaurant serves delicious food and has been a long-standing fixture in Toronto's Chinatown community. There are two menus you can order from; the dim sum menu has classic items such as shrimp dumplings and BBQ pork buns; the second is a la carte menu, where you have more substantial dishes such as noodles and fried rice.

Art Gallery of Ontario

Address: 317 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5T 1G4, Canada Phone: +1 416-979-6648 Website

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one the of the largest art museums in North America, containing an impressive collection of 95,000 works; from classic masterpiece paintings to cool contemporary sculptures and photographs. Here, exhibitions are always on the cutting edge, making it a must-visit attraction in the city; take in Canadian art by the iconic Group of Seven or visit Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirrored Room - Let's Survive Forever, the first contemporary artwork in Canada to be acquired through a major crowdfunding campaign.

Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8, Canada Phone: NA Website

Casa Loma (Spanish for "Hill House") was a mansion built in 1914 by financier Sir Henry Pellatt to serve as his dream home, a castle-like structure in the heart of the city. Now, it's a cherished heritage landmark that celebrates and captures the richness and romanticism of Toronto's history. Explore three floors filled with elegant European décor, historical artifacts, a classic car collection, a stunning conservatory, and the estate gardens.

Address: 290 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3L9, Canada Phone: +1 416-868-6937 Website

The Toronto skyline is defined by the CN Tower and it's a must-visit attraction where you can take in a stunning, 360° birds' eye view of the city. Riding up the Tower's glass elevator is a fun experience. Daredevils can purchase tickets to partake in the EdgeWalk, strolling the circumference of the Tower's main pod, outdoors and hands-free 1168 feet (116 stories) above ground – this is the first experience of its kind in North America and the world's highest hands-free external walk on a building.

The Distillery District

Founded in 1832, the Godderham & Worts Distillery started as a small windmill and grew into one of the largest distilleries in the British Empire. Now, it is a national historical site and hub for the city's arts and culture scene, serving as the home for artists, art galleries, shops, and restaurants. You'll adore walking the cobblestone streets of this pedestrian-only space and seeing beautiful Victorian buildings, which speak to the history of Toronto and why The Distillery is one of the most filmed locations in the country.

Fort York National Historic Site

Address: 250 Fort York Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 3K9, Canada Phone: +1 416-392-6907 Website

Fort York National Historic Site is 43 acres of history. Considered the birthplace of Toronto, it's best known for being a crucial battle location during the War of 1812, where British troops defended the city from invading U.S. forces. Today, visitors can explore the grounds year-round to experience guided tours, exhibitions, and seasonal demonstrations, take in amazing views of the city skyline and experience one of the coolest features of the site – the cannon firing, which occurs twice daily.

Graffiti Alley

160 Rush Lane, Toronto, ON

Toronto's Graffiti Alley is an accidental attraction which helped give way to legalized street art in the city in the early 2000s. Building walls that occupy this stretch of Rush Lane from Portland Street to Spadina Avenue are decorated with some of Toronto's most colorful and notable graffiti murals by respected artists. As a result, this area is the hot spot for many music videos, photo shoots, and mini street festivals. The art in Graffiti Alley is constantly changing, so make sure to snap lots of photos while here.

Harbourfront Centre

Address: 235 Queens Quay W, Toronto, ON M5J 2G8, Canada Phone: +1 416-973-4000 Website

Harbourfront Centre is a 10-acre site located along the city's stunning lakeshore that serves as the scene for many contemporary arts, community and cultural events. This indoor and outdoor space of theaters and parks, restaurants, and retail stores make it an vibrant area to visit and experience year round. For example, activities and programs such as Dancing on the Pier and Canada Day are very popular. In the summertime, you can paddle boat on Natrel Pond and in the winter, it transforms into Natrel Rink, an outdoor public ice skating space.

St. Lawrence Market

Address: 93 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5E 1C3, Canada Phone: +1 416-392-7219 Website

St. Lawrence Market is a culinary destination of some of the city's best and well-known purveyors of food. The South Market building is a visual fixture in Toronto, housing more than 120 food vendors who provide fresh ingredients to home cooks and professional chefs around the city. This is a food lovers' paradise where you can see, feel, and taste the history of Toronto. Get the famous peameal bacon sandwich from Carousel Bakery, lobster rolls from Buster's Sea Cove, and the everything bagel from St. Urbain Bagel.

The Rex Hotel & Jazz Blues Bar

Address: 194 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z1, Canada Phone: +1 416-598-2475 Website

From humble beginnings in the 1980s, this family-owned business is one of the longest running jazz and blues bars in the city, and is considered a musical institution. A casual, comfortable and unpretentious atmosphere, The Rex runs more than 19 shows per week. They continually attract some of the world's finest musicians, who have been known to take the stage for impromptu performances; Wynton Marsalis and Harry Connick Jr. have visited and blessed the bar's audience with their talents.

Royal Ontario Museum

Address: 100 Queens Park, Toronto, ON M5S 2C6, Canada Phone: +1 416-586-8000 Website

Founded in 1914, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is one of the pre-eminent museums in North America that is easily identifiable by its Daniel Libeskind-designed Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, a striking angular glass and steel form exploding from its original heritage structure. With 40 permanent galleries and more than 13 million objects and specimens in its collection, visitors can explore art, artifacts, and cultures from around the world such as South Asian art and ancient Egyptian treasures. The ROM also consistently hosts fascinating exhibitions and hip events, making it one of the city's coolest and most notable attractions.

Address: 28 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5V 0C6, Canada Phone: NA Website

This modular market space transforms a vacant city plot into a vibrant and impressive 100,000-square-foot indoor and outdoor complex. Operating 364 days a year, reclaimed and new shipping containers are used to create spaces for retail stores, food and beverage outlets, community and service experiences run by local and international vendors. A family- and pet-friendly market, explore unique vendors such as Belgian Moon Brewery and self-service sneaker customization studio Mack House .

TIFF Bell LightBox

Address: 350 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 3X5, Canada Phone: +1 416-599-2033 Website

Located in the heart of the Entertainment District, TIFF Bell Lightbox is home to the world-renowned Toronto International Film Festival. Five floors and six first-rate movie theaters host and celebrate international and Canadian films, panel discussions, exhibitions, and programs for all ages year-round. Free, weekly guided tours of the building are offered to the public, where you can explore the architecture, history, and inner workings of this state-of-the-art facility. Also housed in the TIFF Bell Lightbox is the Film Reference Library , TIFF gift shop and two restaurants.

Toronto City Hall and Nathan Phillips Square

Address: 100 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5H 2N1, Canada Phone: +1 416-392-2489 Website

Toronto City Hall is the location of the city's municipal government and is also an iconic landmark building of two curved towers with a saucer-like structure at the base. In front of City Hill sits Nathan Phillips Square, an outdoor community space that serves as the site for many events, festivals, and celebrations year-round. These sites, plus the iconic Toronto sign, make a lively area filled with constant activity and a great photo backdrop. During the summer, the Nathan Phillips Square reflecting pool is a popular water feature and during the winter, it turns into a free outdoor ice-skating rink.

CF Toronto Eaton Centre

Address: 220 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M5B 2H1, Canada Phone: +1 416-598-8560 Website

The CF Toronto Eaton Centre is a premiere shopping destination that houses more than 250 restaurants, retailers, and services. Locally known as the Eaton Centre, this shopping mall spans 2,167,000 square feet and is a hub of activity. Explore offerings from Canadian-based stores such as Indigo Books & Music and Roots, as well as global brands like Apple and H&M. Picturesque features of the Eaton Centre to capture on camera are its soaring glass ceiling; Michael Snow's iconic Flight Stop geese, a permanent sculptural installation; and the futuristic pedestrian bridge, a floor to ceiling glass structure with spiraling angles.

Address: 18 Distillery Lane, Toronto, ON M5A 3C4, Canada Phone: +1 647-498-6827 Website

Cult brand DECIEM has taken the world by storm with its vast array of affordable skincare and beauty products, such as The Ordinary and Hylamide. While visiting the home city of this industry-changing company, you must stop in its store in The Distillery District, which is a whopping 6,186 square feet. This beautifully minimalistic and spacious shop has a welcoming store team who can answer product- and skin-related questions, and with more than 160 products from DECIEM's seven current in-house brands available for purchase you have to stock up!

Address: 190 Richmond St E Floor 2, Toronto, ON M5A 1P1, Canada Phone: +1 416-901-1195 Website

For the latest in men's streetwear designs head to HAVEN, located in a light-filled 1,500-square-foot space with soaring ceilings. HAVEN carries approximately 50 labels – many are exclusive to the store – and prides itself on being the purveyors of coveted Japanese brands such as Sakai, Neighborhood, and WTAPS. This is also the site for some of the latest and hottest sneaker releases in the city; drop dates for coveted shoes like Yeezys are announced on the HAVEN Instagram account , along with details for purchase.

Helen + Hildegard

Address: 1174 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1J5, Canada Phone: +1 647-348-1833 Website

Helen + Hildegard is a herbal apothecary and artisanal beauty shop founded by Sonya D'Cunha. The store's name pays tribute to D'Cunha's grandmothers, who used their knowledge of plant medicine to care for themselves and their families. Helen + Hildegard's shelves are stocked with many contemporary bath, body, and skincare products, including locally loved brands such as Da Lish Cosmetics and Province Apothecary. The selection of items in store is so plentiful that you'll happily get lost exploring.

Hudson's Bay Queen Street Toronto

Address: 176 Yonge Street, 37 Richmond St W, Toronto, ON M5C 2L7, Canada Phone: +1 416-861-9111 Website

The Hudson's Bay Company is Canada's longest running department store and North America's oldest company. Its flagship Hudson's Bay Queen Street store is housed in an historical building comprised of eight floors that carry men's and women's apparel, beauty and home products, a food hall, restaurants and a vast 12,000-square-foot women's shoe department. Visit their HBC Stripes shop on the lower level to take a piece of Canadian history home with you; check out their multi-stripe products or purchase the iconic HBC point blanket, whose origins date back to 1780 and is a world renowned item symbolizing the company and Canadian history.

Address: 1191 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1X3, Canada Phone: +1 647-352-1191 Website

Saudade is an exquisite lifestyle and home store located in Toronto's Little Portugal neighborhood, which celebrates Portuguese design and artisanal crafts. Within this store, you'll discover a highly curated range of classic and contemporary Portuguese products such as terracotta pottery, trinkets, woven rugs, and bath and body care – some which are so unique and lovely that you'll find it difficult to leave without purchasing a piece to take home with you.

Address: 215 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5T 2C7, Canada Phone: +1 416-532-0334 Website

Owner Jeffrey Barber has been running Canada's largest independent record store, as well as buying and selling LPs, CDs, and DVDs, since 2001. Sonic Boom is a sprawling 12,000-square-foot space covering two floors of seemingly unending crates of vinyl records from every musical artist and genre imaginable, from Metallica to Thelonious Monk. This place is so well known that it's not uncommon to bump into legendary musicians, such as Elton John and Nile Rodgers, digging through the crates.

Spacing Store

Address: 401 Richmond St W, Toronto, ON M5V 3A8, Canada Phone: +1 416-644-1017 Website

Spacing Store is an off-shoot of its namesake magazine Spacing . This city-themed gift shop is a great alternative if you're looking to purchase Toronto-centric items that aren't the typical tourist souvenirs. Here, you'll find a cool and interesting array of paraphernalia such as apparel, books, gifts, and more that highlight the city's complex history, culture, and idiosyncrasies by local artists and brands.

Address: 883 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M6J 1G5, Canada Phone: +1 416-366-8973 Website

Founded by Joanne Saul and Samara Walbohm, Type Books is one of Toronto's most beloved independent bookstores. Step inside and you immediately feel that this is not only a bookstore but a welcoming community space which carries an eclectic selection of contemporary fiction and non-fiction books, small press titles, art, design, and travel books. At the back is an adorable children's section with many interesting and progressive titles that you can share and read to your little ones.

Address: 7 St Thomas St Unit 101, Toronto, ON M5S 2B7, Canada Phone: +1 437-777-9358 Website

WDLT117 is a highly curated luxury lifestyle concept store found off the beaten path in the city's Yorkville neighborhood. The store derives its name from the word "wanderlust" and gives a nod to the heritage building it resides in, combined with its modern physical address. Inside you'll find a bright and sleek space selling homeware, apparel, shoes, and accessories for women and men by international brands rarely found elsewhere in Toronto, such as Inneraum and Palomar.

The diversity of Toronto's over 250 ethnic groups is reflected in its multitude of neighborhoods, each with its own distinctive look and feel. This is where you can experience cultures from around the world. Ask any Torontonian what their favorite neighborhoods are and they'll excitedly relay an unending list of places to enjoy the best Jamaican patty or where you can shop for great vintage finds. Peruse our curated list of some of the best neighborhoods in the city to visit.

The Annex: Bordering the University of Toronto's St. George campus, The Annex is a lively area populated by students and grand homes. Along its main stretch of Bloor Street West, experience affordable, friendly, and locally run businesses, cafes, and indie retail stores. An abundance of casual bars and diverse restaurants is at your fingertips, from sushi to pizza, where you'll be spoiled for choice. For entertainment, check out Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema , the world's largest documentary cinema, and Lee's Palace , a rock concert hall that is a city institution.

Chinatown: A hub of activity day or night with sidewalk markets, innumerable Canadian souvenirs shops and Asian restaurants. During Lunar New Year, Chinatown is extra festive as the community celebrates this occasion with lion dances along the street and inside Dragon City Mall . Also in the neighborhood is the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) , one of the largest art museums in North America.

Kensington Market: Next door to Chinatown, this bohemian village within the city contains an eclectic mix of cafes, vintage stores, and food markets largely untouched by the modern changes of time. Pedestrian Sundays are a popular event, taking place on the last Sunday of the month (from May to October), where the streets are closed to vehicle traffic and are teeming with music and activity. Make sure you snap a picture of the Kensington Market Garden Car, a local attraction and public art piece permanently parked at Augusta Ave and Oxford Street for more than 10 years.

Entertainment District: This was the epicenter of Toronto's club district between the 1990s and early 2000s, but has largely gentrified to accommodate businesses and condo dwellers. The area still retains a few nightclubs but is mostly known for its selection of restaurants, bars, and thriving concert and live theatre venues such as Roy Thompson Hall , Princess of Wales Theatre , and the TIFF Bell Lightbox where you can catch a show or watch some of the world's most acclaimed films.

King Street West: Formerly an area populated with industrial buildings and warehouses, King Street West has transformed into a bustling hub of popular bars, a thriving club scene, and cool shops, such as local favs SOMA Chocolatemaker and SPin Toronto . This stretch of coolness extends for approximately 1.2 miles from Spadina to Strachan Avenue.

Little Italy: This area along College Street West is lined with quaint restaurants and outdoor cafes surrounded by beautiful tree-lined streets with Edwardian period homes. Dine and explore at your leisure during the day – Café Diplomatico is a long-time community staple. At night the neighborhood turns into a lively hot spot with El Convento Rico , a Latin nightclub and drag show venue, and Revival Bar , a popular club and event space.

Old Town Toronto: The founding neighborhood of Toronto (originally named the Town of York) has the largest concentration of 19th century buildings in the province. This area has a wealth of local history, great restaurants and bars, and a thriving arts scene. Points of interest to take in are the photogenic Gooderham Building (locally known as the Flatiron Building), Berczy Park dog fountain, and Sugar Beach. Satisfy your taste buds at St. Lawrence Market , a world-renowned culinary haven, and stroll through the historic Distillery District , one of Canada's premiere arts and culture destinations.

West Queen West: Day or night this westerly area along Queen Street West is home to a multitude of cool bars, vintage shops, and a diverse selection of locally run businesses. Two of the city's beloved boutique hotels are found here – The Drake and Gladstone – as well as the ubiquitous Trinity Bellwoods Park , a popular spot to hang and partake in local community events. The vibe here is hip, young, and active – couple that with the above-mentioned points of interest and you immediately understand why Vogue named West Queen West one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world .

Yorkville: During the 1960s, this was a relaxed bohemian enclave, but is now an affluent and sophisticated area – Drake is known to frequent Yorkville and during the Toronto International Film Festival it teems with celebrities. Many upscale restaurants and international luxury retailers are found here, as well as long-time local purveyors of class Harry Rosen and Holt Renfrew . Yorkville is also a cultural destination where within a few hundred feet you can visit the Bata Shoe Museum , Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art , Royal Ontario Museum , and Royal Conservatory of Music .

Toronto Islands: Hop on a ferry and get away to the Toronto Islands , a group of 15 interconnected islands that sit in Lake Ontario. It offers a relaxing respite for individuals and families from the bustling vibe of the downtown core. Take a dip at its beaches (note that Hanlan's Point is a clothing-optional beach), rent sports and water equipment, enjoy a picnic, play at Centreville Amusement Park , or experience the quaintness of the 150-year-old community living year-round in cottage-style residences.

In Toronto you'll experience all four seasons of the year to Mother Nature's maximum. Here, winter (December to February) means a lot of snow, wet rain, icy conditions and wind chill so intense it makes the city feel colder than Mars . Spring time (March to May) is highly variable with warmer temperatures, periods of snow and frequent rainfall. Summer (June to August) has hot sunny days with extreme humidity and periodic thunderstorms. Autumn (September to November) starts off warm with cooler nights and signals the start of gorgeous fall colors, expect periodic thunderstorms.

January: 32°F - 19°F February: 32°F - 21°F March: 39°F - 28°F April: 54°F - 39°F May: 64°F - 50°F June: 75°F - 59°F July: 81°F - 64°F August: 79°F - 63°F September: 70°F - 55°F October: 57°F - 45°F November: 45°F - 36°F December: 36°F - 27°F

PBSC: this is the official app for Bike Share Toronto. Use it to plan your bike route, locate bike stations, track and check bike inventory at nearby docks around the city. iPhone | Android

Green P Parking: official mobile app for the Toronto Parking Authority. Use it to pay fees for street parking and city owned lots. iPhone | Android

Transit App: an all in one, real time transit app that tracks the arrival and location of TTC vehicles. You can also use this app to map bike routes in the city and check the inventory of Bike Share Toronto docks. iPhone | Android

UP Express Mobile App: access service information, purchase tickets and view schedules for the UP Express when travelling to and from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Union Station in Downtown, Toronto. iPhone | Android

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The Planet D: Adventure Travel Blog

50 Best Things to do in Toronto Canada in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: March 5, 2024

There are so many things to do in Toronto it can be difficult to know where to start. Being one of the most  multiculturally diverse  cities on the planet, there is something for everyone. It’s our hometown but we’ve also experienced Toronto as a tourist. Toronto is the largest city in Canada, and in our humble opinion, it’s the most exciting! If you are visiting the city, our comprehensive Toronto guide will help you find the best places to visit and things to do in Toronto with our expert local opinions.

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do in Toronto

We have broken this guide into sections to help you plan your Toronto itinerary. There here are clusters of attractions in different parts of the city so instead of hopping in taxis or taking the subway running around in all directions, we’re going to give you a Toronto guide where you can walk from one attraction to another.

  • Part 1 – Toronto Entertainment District – CN Tower, Roger’s Center, Grafitti Alley, The Well
  • Part 2 – Front Street and Distillery District – Gooderham and Worts, Hockey Hall of Fame, St. Lawrence Market
  • Part 3 – Harbourfront – Sugar Beach, Toronto Islands, Harbourfront Cruise Part 4 – Downtown Toronto – Yonge and Dundas Square, Nathan Philips Square, Eaton Centre
  • Part 5 – Toronto Museums & Galleries – ROM, AGO,
  • Part 6 – Toronto Outdoors – High Park, Evergreen Brickworks, Cycling Trails, Humber River, The Beaches
  • Part 7 – Toronto Theatres and Entertainment Venues – Ed Mirvish Theatres, Massey Hall, Roy Thompson Hall, Second City
  • Part 8 – Day Trips from Toronto – Niagara Falls , Niagara on the Lake, Toronto Zoo, Canada’s Wonderland

Top things to do in Toronto Canada

When flying into Toronto, Canada, you’ll be landing at Pearson International Airport. Airport taxis are available and you can call and Uber or LYFT with a dedicated ride share pick-up station and you can take the UP-Express. But take the hassle out of travel and book an  airport limousine transfer  that will take you to your downtown hotel.

Entertainment District

1. cn tower edge walk.

best things to do in toronto canada edge walk

The CN Tower is Toronto’s most iconic landmark and the most popular thing to do in Toronto. Built in 1975, it reigned as the world’s tallest building until 2007 when it was taken over by the Burj Khalifa in 2008. While the CN Tower is a top Toronto Attraction unto itself, it’s the Edgwalk that makes it special.

  • Location:  301 Front Street.  Directions  – TTC to Union Station, then walk East on Front Street

CN Tower Glass Floor

cn tower glass floor Toronto Canada things to do

If you aren’t up for the adrenaline rush of the Edgewalk, you still must visit the CN Tower to see city views from its observation decks. There is the Lookout Level, The SkyPod and the Glass Floor which we were surprised terrified some people.

You can eat dinner at the revolving restaurant, walk on the glass floor, and see the best view of Toronto from inside and out, enjoy a virtual reality ride. Read more: CN Tower Edgewalk – Taking on The World’s Highest SkyWalk

2. Toronto Railway Museum

things to do in toronto canada railway museum

While you are at the CN Tower, there are plenty of things to see and do around Front Street. Make your way to the Railway Museum just behind the CN Tower to see this incredible display. The Toronto Railway Museum is dedicated to the history of rail transport in Canada located in the former Canadian Pacific Railway John Street Roundhouse, which was built in 1929.

It served as a maintenance facility for steam locomotives and today it is a sprawling outdoor museum featuring a collection of historic railway equipment, including locomotives, passenger cars, and cabooses. Visitors can see exhibits of various railway artifacts, learn about the history of Canadian railways, and experience interactive exhibits.

After checking out the Railway Museum, you can pop into the Steamwhistle Brewing Company. Pop into the roundhouse to enjoy a pint of premium beer and a bite to eat. Located in the historic John Street Roundhouse which was use to repair locomotives from the Canadian Pacific Rail company, it is now a tap room complete with Biergarten inspired by the famous beer gardens of Munich .

3. Rogers Centre

best things to do in toronto canada rogers centre

This area is filled with things to do from the Ripley’s Aquarium and the Toronto Rogers Centre which is home to the back to back Major League Baseball champions circa 1992 and 1993, The Toronto Blue Jays.

The Rober Center is the ultimate entertainment complex with the largest retracting roof in North America. Home to the Toronto Blue Jays, the Rogers Centre is a huge stadium seating 53,000 people. When the Jays aren’t playing, you will find the hottest musical acts in the world playing in their stadium tours. See  Roger’s Live Nation  for upcoming concerts.

4. Queen West

things to do in toronto canada queen west

This is where the hippest of the hip hang out in Toronto. Queen West is known as the Art and Design district and if you’re looking for some trendy styles, this is the place to go. Queen Street has shops and stores selling everything from makeup to menswear.

You can even buy sewing and material goods here as well as jewelry-making supplies. It’s got it all. Once the shops close, the food scene begins and the live music starts at venues like The Horseshoe, the Rivoli, and the Rex.

One of the best ways to get a feel for Toronto is to take a walking tour. This food tour takes you through the different neighborhood that helped shape Toronto from St. Lawrence Market to food stalls, local sushi and sweet treats.

5. Graffiti Alley

things to do in toronto canada graffiti alley

Queen Street is the main entertainment area of the Entertainment District home to some of the best shopping in Toronto and the headquarters of City TV. But just behind the glitz and glam of Queen Street is Graffiti Alley. Graffiti Alley is the most popular place in Toronto for  Instagram.

Located at Queen and Bathurst Graffiti Alley offers 1 km of walls covered in street art and graffiti along Rush Lane. Canadian commentator Rick Mercer shot his Rants along Graffiti Alley over the course of his 15-year show. It’s located in the city center on Queen Street making it an easy walk to get to and it is filled with amazing street art.

  • Location :  South of Queenstreet  Between Spadina and Bathurst.
  • Toronto Tour Guys offer  Toronto Graffiti Tours . 

6. Entertainment District Nightlife

things to do in toronto canada video

The CN Tower, Roger’s Center, and Ripley’s Aquarium are all located on the south edge of the Entertainment District so once you’ve spent the day sightseeing here, it’s time to enjoy life in the city in the heart of the action.

The Entertainment District spans from Queen Street to the Gardiner Expressway and Spadina Avenue to University. It’s home to legendary live music venues such as the Horseshoe Tavern, The Rivoli, and Cameron House. Toronto’s top theatres, are Roy Thompson Hall, Royal Alexandra Theatre, and the Princess of Wales and there are plenty of bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and pubs.

7. Arcadia Earth at the Well

The Well is Toronto’s newest entertainment complex spanning across 7.7 Acres in Toronto’s King West. This area is just starting to ramp up, and the hottest spot in town is Arcadia Earth. Influencers and Instagrammers will love this place. We recently visited and took part in the hour long multimedia display.

Downloading the app to our iPhones, we walked through 10 immersive experiences using the latest technology. This really is one of Toronto’s coolest experiences where you feel that you are right in the heart of the displays themselves. You can download media directly to your phone to bring home the experiences with you.

Where to Stay in the Entertainment District

Things to do in Toronto canada  Entertainment District

The Entertainment District is a great place for travelers to make a base while exploring the top Toronto Attractions as many of Toronto’s top tourist attractions are within walking distance of its hotels. Close to Union Station, it is easy to get to and it is where Toronto’s main nightlife venues are with cocktail lounges and chic bars.

  • Stay at the Ritz Carlton, one of our favourite hotels in Toronto overlooking the CN Tower  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com
  • Thompson Hotel  For a more moderate mid-range budget, check out the modern and chic hotel that is Close to nightlife.   Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

Front Street and Distillery District

8. distillery district.

things to do in toronto canada distillery district

The Distillery is one of the most popular places in Toronto for travelers. Stroll through the pedestrian walkways along cobblestone streets as you browse the many boutiques, brew pubs, and art galleries. In the summer the streets come alive with outdoor street performers, music, and stage performances. In the winter, the annual Toronto Christmas Market is in full swing.

  • A Segway tour of the Distillery is a fun way to get around and learn its history.

9. St. Lawrence Market

things to do in toronto canada st lawrence market

St. Lawrence Market was once voted as the #1 Food Market in the World by National Geographic. St. Lawrence Hall and the North and South Market building have been operating for more than 200 years at the foot of Front and Jarvis Street. 120 vendors take pride in their goods operating stalls that have been passed down for generations. Take a walk through St. Lawrence Market and buy some fresh cheese, meats, and bread to take on a picnic in the Toronto Islands.

St. Lawrence Market is undergoing a new development and the North Market is closed as its state-of-the-art design is being built, but the City relocated the Sunday Antique Market and Farmers Market to a temporary market at 125 The Esplanade.

10. Scotia Bank Arena

Things to do in Toronto Canada Scotia Bank Arena

It is our second-largest stadium and is home to the Toronto Maple Leafs and NBA Champions, the Toronto Raptors. If you are a hockey fan, make sure to buy tickets to a Maple Leaf game well in advance, Toronto loves its hockey and games sell out quickly. Which is surprising since Toronto hasn’t won a Stanley Cup since 1967.

Scotia Bank Arena is also home to the 2019 NBA champions the Toronto Raptors. Tickets are at a premium for basketball games too, but visitors can watch a game in the square outside the arena known as Jurassic Park. This is almost as lively as watching it live as crowds gather to cheer on our beloved team.

In between the two major sporting seasons, the Scotia Bank Arena opens its doors to more music acts. Visit their website  for hockey, basketball, and concert schedules.

11. Hockey Hall of Fame

things to do in toronto canada hockey hall of fame

Canada loves its hockey and Toronto is home to the Hockey Hall of Fame. If you are a hockey fan, you won’t want to miss visiting the Hockey Hall of Fame. Located in downtown Toronto at the foot of Yonge and Front Street it’s a must stop on any Toronto itinerary for hockey fans.

It houses the Stanley Cup and it’s on display when it’s not touring the country. It also houses the world’s largest collection of hockey memorabilia, there are interactive displays and two theatres.

  • Location : 30 Yonge St – Subway Line 1 to King Station. Directions here .

Harbourfront

12. helicopter tour or scenic flight.

things to do in toronto canada scenic flight

For a bird’s eye view of the city, take a scenic flight from Billy Bishop Airport on Toronto Island. We have had the privilege of taking several scenic flights over Toronto. What stands out besides the beautiful city skyline is all of the green space in Toronto. It is very impressive to see so many trees scattered among the skyscrapers.

Travelers shouldn’t miss the chance to see Toronto from above. You’ll fly along the waterfront of Lake Ontario to see the beaches, and Toronto Islands, and circle around the skyscrapers of this spectacular international city. This 7-minute helicopter tour is an affordable way to see the city skyline views from above. It may be a short flight, but 7 minutes is all you need to view the CN Tower standing over downtown Toronto, Fort York, and the Lake Ontario waterfront from above

13. Harbourfront Centre

things to do in toronto canada habrour cruise

After you have seen Toronto from above, make your way from Billy Bishop to Toronto’s Harbourfront, it’s just down the street. Harbourfront is an amazing entertainment area complete with theatres, museums, music venues, and festivals.

Harbourfront Centre is the heart of the area with entertainment venues, artists workshops, galleries and outdoor attractions. There is always something going on at Harbourfront Centre. There are plenty of dining options and it is an excellent place to stroll along Toronto’s waterfront, do some shopping in the Centre and enjoy the artisan workshops.

The main building of Harbourfront Centre is closed for renovations, but events are still going and The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery remains open.

While at the Toronto Harbourfront and book a sunset harbour cruise for a fantastic sunset view of Toronto. There are all kinds of cruises planned to show off the Toronto skyline from dinner cruises, daytime cruises, and cocktail cruises to special Luau Cruises and holiday events. It’s a beautiful way to take in the Toronto Scene and witness the Toronto Islands as you cruise Lake Ontario. Book a cruise in advance

14. Sugar Beach

best things to do in toronto canada harbourfront

Harbourfront is also home to one of Toronto’s most photographed beaches, Sugar Beach. It’s a tiny beach located on Corus Quay right beside the Redpath Sugar Factory, Sugar Beach is a quiet spot just at the east end of Queens Quay. It’s a small patch of sand with Muskoka Chairs and a pink umbrella installation.

  • Location :  Located on Queens Quay  – Subway to Union Station and Walk South to the water. Or ride the Spadina Streetcar all the way to Harbourfront.
  • 29. Harbourfront Cruise

15. Toronto Music Garden

A hidden gem in the Harbourfront district is the Toronto Music Garden in Queens Quay. Designed by Yo Yo Ma and landscape designer Julie Moir Messervy. It was inspired by the first movement of Bach’s Suite No. 1 in G Major for unaccompanied cello, and the park is meant to be a living representation of the piece.

The park features six distinct sections, each representing a different bar of the music. The sections to look for in the Toronto Music Garden Prelude, Allemande, Courante, Sarabande, Menuett, and Gigue. The park also features a variety of plants, trees, and flowers, which were chosen to reflect the mood and character of each section of the piece.

16. Toronto Islands

best things to do in toronto canada toronto islands

You must go to the islands for the city skyline views of Toronto. This is the view that everyone around the world recognizes. There is stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, and cycling. You can visit the beaches of the island including Toronto’s famous Nude Beach.

Take the ferry to Centre Island, Hanlan’s Point, or Ward’s Island and spend the day enjoying the sunshine and iconic views of the city. We always enjoy a picnic on the islands and there’s even a small amusement park. Centreville Amusement Park on Centre Island is a cute park for kids with a carousel, log ride, Ferris wheel and plenty of concession stands, midway games, and miniature gold. The islands are a perfect getaway for the whole family from the city.

  • Location : Board the ferry from Queen’s Quay.

Where to Stay in Harbourfront

  • Mid-Range:   Westin Harbour Castle  – This is The Place to stay in Harbourfront. Located right on the water. Pool, fitness center, dining with city views. Has a resort feel.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

Downtown Toronto

17. city hall and nathan phillips square.

things to do in toronto canada city hall nathan philips square

Located just a few blocks from Yonge and Dunas Square is Nathan Phillip’s Square. Home to Toronto City Hall, Nathan Phillips Square is a gathering spot for tours and meetups.

It probably attracts the most visitors to Toronto due to the iconic City Hall Building. It is a popular spot for events, art displays, and celebrations. This is where we celebrate New Year’s Eve and the fountain turns into a ice skating rink during the winter months.

For exploring City Hall and downtown Toronto the Sheraton Center is an excellent hotel. It overlooks City Hall and is connected to the PATH at the Toronto Eaton Centre, this is often our go-to hotel. It has an indoor/outdoor pool, and fitness center.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com Check it out on

  • Location :  100 Queen Street West  – Subway Line 1 to Queen Street.
  • Book a  walking tour of Toronto  to see all the major sites of Toronto

18. Toronto CF Eaton Centre

things to do in toronto canada eaton center

The Eaton Centre has been the heart of Toronto Shopping since the 1970s. Located at Yonge and Dundas Square, this shopping mall spans from Dundas to Queen with flagship stores like The Bay and Saks Fifth Avenue helming the ends. There are high-end boutiques and thrifty dollar stores. It has everything you’d want under one roof.

The Eaton Centre spans from Queen Street to Dundas Square along Yonge Street in the heart of Toronto and it is the busiest shopping center in North America. Right now its iconic Canada Geese installation has been taken down as the Toronto Eaton Centre is undergoing a 77-million-dollar makeover, but it is still open for business

19. Yonge and Dundas Square

Where to stay in Toronto canada near Yonge Dundas Square

This popular public square in the heart of Downtown always has something exciting going on. Surrounded by billboards, shopping, movie theatres, and City TV, it’s a happening spot. It’s Toronto’s version of Times Square in New York City and a place all travelers to the city should visit. There are always outdoor performances, festivals, and even free movies in the summertime.

At Yonge and Dundas Square, you’ll find plenty of Restaurants including Milestone’s Patio overlooking Yonge Street and lots of shopping including Toronto’s Iconic Eaton Center.

  • Location : At the intersection of Yonge and Dundas Street. Subway Line 1 to Dundas Station.

20. Little Canada

Things to do in Toronto Canada Little Canada

Little Canada is also located at Yonge and Dundas Square on the lower level of the Cineplex building. This Toronto attraction features miniature replicas of famous Canadian landmarks, such as the CN Tower, Niagara Falls, and the Parliament Buildings. You can also see miniaturized versions of various Canadian cities and regions, such as Toronto, Vancouver, and the Canadian Rockies.

It has interactive displays where you can activate the Northern Lights, makes it rain in Vancouver, or control the cars on the streets of Toronto.

21. Toronto Underground City

best things to do in toronto Canada path

It’s true, Toronto has an entire subterranean world under the city known as The Path. It is one of the largest underground walkways in the world. Starting at Yonge and Dundas Square it weaves through 30km of the downtown core all the way to Union Station.

More than 200k daily visitors and commuters walk the path filled with restaurants, shopping, cafés connecting 75 skyscrapers, subway stations, department stores and hotels.

  • Located : in the downtown core. Just walk into any building and look for the Path sign. Visit  Path.com  for maps

Where to Stay Downtown Toronto

  • Mid-Range:  Sheraton Centre  –  Connected to the PATH at the Eaton Centre, this was our go-to hotel. Views of City Hall, indoor/outdoor pool, and fitness center.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com
  • Budget:  Chelsea Hotel   – Not too many budget spots here but Chelsea is on the affordable side. Prime location steps from Dundas Square. Ask for a renovated room.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

22. Kensington Market

Things to do in Toronto Canada Kensington Market

For the complete opposite end of the spectrum, Kensington Market is a funky shopping district with second-hand clothing and vintage style. Located just off Spadina in the heart of China Town, you’ll find cheese boutiques, fresh vegetable markets, microbrews, and vintage clothing. It is the funkiest place in the city and a must-stop for anyone coming to Toronto. For a local vibe and funny atmosphere, make sure to visit Toronto’s, Kensington Market.

23. Chinatown

things to do in toronto canada chinatown

One of Toronto’s most vibrant neighborhoods in downtown Chinatown is located on Spadina Avenue. Pick up your favorite Asian vegetables for authentic cooking, eat incredible Chinese food, and ask for “a pot of tea” after hours (meaning, a pot of beer)

You really feel as if you have stepped into an Asian city with the sounds, smells, and tastes of Asia engulfing the senses at every turn.

  • Located  along Spadina Avenue between Queen and College
  • Book a walking tour  of China Town and Kensington Market.

Bloor/Yorkville

what to do in toronto canada bloor yorkville

While you are visiting the ROM, take a stroll over to Toronto’s chicest neighborhood. Bloor Yorkville is home to the Mink Mile – One of the world’s most expensive shopping streets. For shopping, you’ll find every high-end sort you can think of including Gucci, Chanel, Kate Spade, and Burberry.

The top salons make their home in Yorkville and some of the city’s best dining is here. If you want to people-watch and keep an eye out for celebrities in Toronto, this is the place to be. Our favorite hangouts in Bloor Yorkville are Hemingways Patio and The Pilot.

Where to Stay in Bloor Yorkville

  • Luxury:  Four Seasons  –  The top choice for celebrities and businesses, this 5-star luxury hotel has an incredible spa, popular bar and one of the best dining establishments in Toronto.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com
  • Mid-Range:  Intercontinental Toronto Yorkville   – What was once the hot hotel for celebrities at TIFF, now an affordable option in Yorkville.  Trip Advisor  /  Booking.com

24. Casa Loma

best things to do in toronto canada casa loma

Did you know Toronto has a castle? Casa Loma was built in 1911 by Sir Henry Pellatt; a local financier to be used as his private residence. It was a lavish Gothic Revival mansion with 98 rooms at 64,700 square feet (6,011 m 2 ). There are always seasonal events going on at Casa Loma with Halloween celebrations, Christmas decorations, and March Break Festivities. But visitors can tour this historic castle as well.

There are stables and a coach house and today it is a popular tourist attraction. There is even an 800-foot tunnel leading to the stables. You can tour the many suites or eat at the BlueBlood Steamhouse, a casual restaurant at the Terrace Grill and coffee and snacks at Liberty Café. Read More: Toronto Tours by Locals

  • Location : 1 Austin Terrace – Take the Subway Line 1 to St. Claire Station and then walk West to Casa Loma

Toronto Museums and Galleries

When planning your Toronto sightseeing excursions, you must include museums in your Itinerary. Toronto has a number of museums and art galleries to see, but these are a few of the top.

25. Royal Ontario Museum

things to do in toronto canada video royal ontario museum cover image

The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is Canada’s largest museum of Natural History and one of the top 10 cultural institutions in North America and Canada s largest museum.

Located in downtown Toronto at the corner of University and Bloor, this popular Toronto attraction melds old and new. The contemporary design of the Royal Ontario Museum is a beautiful addition. The ROM houses 13 million artifacts and artwork featured in 40 different exhibition spaces and galleries.

  • You can purchase advance tickets to the ROM  Get Your Guide for $20.
  • Location:  100 Queens Park – at the corner of Yonge and Avenue Road. Line 1 or 2 Subway to Museum Station.

26. Art Gallery of Ontario – AGO

best things to do in toronto canada art gallery of ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) went through a huge transformation in 2008 with a spectacular design by Canadian artist Frank Gehry. The art gallery houses permanent collections like the Group of Seven, The Thomspon Collection, and Contemporary Art. It also has a lovely cafe where locals like to meet for a drink or coffee. It’s no wonder this is one of the best places to visit in Ontario , let alone Toronto.

Located downtown Toronto on Queen Street, The Art Gallery of Ontario is a central location that is within walking distance from the Entertainment District, China Town, or Front Street.

  • Location:   317 Dundas Street West  – Line 1 Subway to St. Patrick Station
  • There are several private art galleries along this street.

27. Bata Shoe Museum

things to do in toronto canada bata shoe museum

This is one of the most unique museums we’ve experienced with displays of footwear through history. But you’ll also see celebrity footwear like Elton John’s platform boots and Elvis’ Blue Suede Shoes, and stilettos worn by Marilyn Monroe. Canadian legend Terry Fox’s running shoe is on display from when he attempted to run across the country for cancer research. He eventually succumbed to the disease, but he is a true Canadian hero.

  • Location: 327 Bloor Street West . Subway Line 1 or 2 to St. George Station
  • Advance tickets can be purchased through Get Your Guide 

28. Aga Khan Museum

aga khan museum toronto things to see

Opened in Sept 2014, the Aga Khan Museum features a collection of Islamic, Persian and Muslim Art. It is North America’s first museum dedicated to Islamic Art and was started by the private collection of the late Prince Sadruddin Aga Khan. The museum houses 1000 objects dating back 10 centuries housed in an impressive eye-catching building.

  • Location : 77 Wynford Drive – Subway Line 2 to Broadview Station then transfer to Bus #100 to the museum.

29. Fort York

things to do in toronto canada old fort york

Before Toronto became the mega city that it is, it was once called York. And this fort stood on the waters of Lake Ontario to protect the city during the War of  1812. This National Historic Site is open year-round offering guided tours, demonstrations, and exhibits. You’ll have fun interacting and learning about history.

  • Location: 250 Fort York Blvd . Streetcar 511 or 505 or 509 Street Car

30. Ontario Science Centre

best things to do in toronto canada ontario science centre

Located north of the city, the Ontario Science Centre has been a favourite for decades. There are great hands-on science exhibits and spectacular displays. Walking through the Living Earth exhibit feels like you are walking through a real rainforest. It has Toronto’s only Planetarium and there is an OMNIMAX Theatre showing new films regularly.

  • Location :  770 Don Mills Road North York:  Subway Line 2 to Pape Station, transfer to Bus 25 North to Don Mills at St. Dennis. Or grab an Uber, or ride a bike!

The Entertainment District is filled with music venues, and Toronto’s top theatres and it is home to TIFF. (The Toronto International Film Festival)

Toronto Theatres

31. ed mirvish theatres.

Things to to in Toronto Canada Ed Mirvish Theatres

Ed Mirvish was a beloved businessman in Toronto from the 1960s to the 1990s. His love for the theatre basically single-handedly revitalized the Toronto theatre scene. He opened the Princess of Wales Theatre, Royal Alexandra Theatre, and & Ed Mirvish Theatres all of which still showcase the most popular Broadway shows of the day.

  • Check out  Mirvish.com  for all theatre listings and showtimes.

32. Massey Hall

Things to do in Toronto Canada Massey Hall

Massey Hall is an intimate music venue that has seen acts perform from all around the world. If you are looking for a rock and country acts or comedians to watch, chances are you’ll find someone at Massey Hall. And there is exciting news! Massey Hall has reopened and is hosting musical acts in its newly renovated space at Allied Music Theatre.

33. Roy Thompson Hall

best things to do in toronto Canada roy thompson hall

For the best orchestra, opera and musical performances, Roy Thompson Hall is the top classical music venue in Canada. Home to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra it is the premier concert hall in the city with outstanding acoustics. It is also a popular venue during the Toronto international film festival.

  • Check out the  Roy Thomson Hall  Website for more details.

34. Second City

Things to do in Toronto Canada Second City

The Second City in Toronto is awesome. It is the best Second City outside of Chicago in the United States. Comedic icons such as Dan Aykroyd, Mike Myers, Catherine O’Hara, and Martin Short performed here and it is still going strong on Blue Jays Way.

Make a night of it in the Entertainment District to see its live comedy shows featuring improv, sketch comedy, and musical performances.

35. Sony Centre for the Performing Arts

It is the largest soft-seat theatre in Canada making for a very comfortable experience. There’s always something playing here including concerts, films, live shows, and festivals.

  • Check out their calendar for show details. Anyone under 30 Years old receives $15 tickets!

Toronto Outdoors

36. high park.

Located in the West End, the city’s largest park attracts visitors from afar during cherry blossom season, but there is a lot more to high park.

Visit the High Park Zoo housing domestic animals like bison, highland cattle, and llamas. There are plenty of picnic areas, hiking and cycling and in the summer Shakespeare in the Park begins with live performances from the Bard. There’s Grenadier Pond, the Historic Colborne Lodge and it is a short walk down to the Lake Shore to enjoy the Toronto Waterfront.

  • Location: Take Subway Line 2 West to Keele or High Park Station.

37. Evergreen Brickworks

unique things to do in toronto canada evergreen brickworks

With outdoor markets, art exhibits and cafés, the Evergreen Brickworks is a fantastic place to spend a couple of hours. Rent a bike from one of the city’s bike share locations and peddle out to the quiet district to grab some fresh fruits and vegetables from the farmers market. This reminds me of those cool districts you find in New York City.

  • Location : 550 Bayview Avenue . It’s tricky to get to cycling or a car is the best way. By transit, Subway line 1 north to Davisville and then bus #28 to the Brickworks.

38. The Beaches

things to do in toronto canada beaches

The Beaches have long been a favourite tourist attraction of Toronto. Starting at Ashbridges Bay, you’ll find beach volleyball, boardwalks, and parks stretching along the 3km trail along Lake Ontario leading to the R.C. Harris Filtration Plant. Traffic is a killer in the summer, so use a bicycle to get around. The Beaches Jazz festival takes place during the month of July.

  • Location: Toronto East – Queen Streetcar.

Cherry Beach

Cherry Beach is located at the outer harbour on the Martin Goodman Trail and is a popular spot for SUP, Kite Boarder and kayaking. Locals like the off-leash zone for dogs. On your way stop at Polson Pier for the best skyline view of the city outside the island.

Kew Beach is another great spot for Canoe and Kayaking plus our favourite SUP. It’s home to the balmy beach club and there’s outdoor fitness equipment to play with. Kew Beach basically blends into Balmy Beach and Woodbine Beach and there’s an outdoor swimming at the Donald D. Summerville Olympic Pools including 5 and 10-metre (15-30 feet) diving boards!

Ashbridges Bay

Ashbridges Bay is one of the more popular spots for beach lovers in Toronto. The waterfront trail runs through the Bay area that has green parks and walkways, beaches, a skateboarding park and picnic sites. This is Toronto’s main spot for fireworks during Canada Day and Victoria Day.

39. Ontario Place

things to do in toronto canada ontario place

Located at the CNE Grounds on the Lakeshore, Ontario Place is an excellent place to spend an afternoon. It has one of the best outdoor festival stages in Toronto at Budweiser Stage attracting big names performing in an intimate setting. And there’s an IMAX theatre. Enjoy the excellent trail for cycling or rollerblading that goes around 7.5 acres of green space.

  • Location : 955 Lakeshore West BLVD – Hop on the 514 Streetcar out to Dufferin Gate Loop. Or ride a bike along the waterfront trail.

40. Toronto Bike Trails

how to get around toronto canada bike trails

Toronto has some excellent bike trails away from the city traffic. You can use the bike share program to cycle around the city, or you can rent a bike. Some of the best cycling trails are the Waterfront Trail, Leslie Spit Trail, The Don Valley Bike Path, Key Garden Belt Line, Taylor Creek Park, and High Park.

  • Locations: For a complete list of Toronto, Bike Trails visit Toronto.com
  • There are plenty of cycling tours that will take you to see the top Toronto attractions.
  • Bike Share Toronto   is good for short rides. A day pass is only $7. It’s important to note that a pass is for 24 hours, but includes unlimited 30-minute rides.

41. Sunnyside Park

things to do in toronto canada sunnyside park

Located in the West End of Toronto, Sunnyside Beach is a quieter stretch of beach located near Sunnyside Pool. There’s a lovely pavilion that’s popular for weddings and events and you can grab some lunch while you are here.

It’s an excellent place for running and cycling and there are plenty of stops along the Waterfront Trail. This trail takes you out through wetlands, over the Humber River and Mimico Creek, and into West Etobicoke.

42. SUP Bluffers Park

things to do in toronto canada scarborough bluffs

There are plenty of spots to Stand Up Paddle Board in Toronto but the most scenic spot is make your way to Scarborough Bluffs at Bluffers Park just off of Bluffers Beach. Blue waters mixed with the white Scarborough Bluffs make a perfect setting and the water is usually calm for paddleboarding.

Located in Scarborough just east of the other Toronto beaches, it is one of the more scenic beaches of Toronto with the lovely Scarborough Bluffs towering overhead at 65 metres high. (180 feet) There’s a restaurant at the marina and spots for picnics. Bluffers Beach has become a popular Instagram spot.

43. Trinity Bellwoods Park

Located just west of the Queen West Neighbourhood, Trinity Bellwoods Park is a popular hangout space in Toronto thanks to its large shady trees. You’ll find all the cool cats and hipsters hanging out at this park that features an ice skating rink in the winter, a public pool, community garden and tennis courts.

Trinity Bellwoods Park is also known for its cultural events and community gatherings, including outdoor movies, live music, and arts and crafts markets. It is also a popular spot for picnics, barbecues, and outdoor gatherings with friends and family.

Day Trips from Toronto

things to do in toronto daytrips from downtown

These day trips from Toronto are just two of the day trips that we recommend for first-time visitors and people from out of the country. But there are countless day trips from the city that you can explore. Read our complete list of the best day trips from Toronto: 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City

44. Canada’s Wonderland

I used to sing at Canada’s Wonderland for four seasons so this amusement park is very dear to my heart. Located north of Toronto, this is one of the best day trips from the city. Spend an entire day enjoying its mega roller coasters, Splash Works and entertainment.

The park features more than 200 attractions, including 16 roller coasters, making it one of the top destinations for thrill-seekers. Some of the most popular rides at Canada’s Wonderland include the Leviathan, Behemoth, and Yukon Striker roller coasters. The park is open from May to October, but throughout the year there are special events with Christmas markets, Halloween Haunts, and Winterfest.

45. Niagara Falls

things to do in toronto niagara falls

One of the top day trips from Toronto is to go to Niagara Falls. Niagara Falls really requires more than a day, but the top attractions in the falls can be done in one simple day if you have limited time. Get Yourself an Adventure Pass and spend the day exploring the top attractions in Niagara Falls like The Hornblower, Journey Behind the Falls, Whitewater Walk and Clifton Hill. Read more: Things to do in Niagara Falls .

Niagara Falls can be done in a Day. When I was working at Canada’s Wonderland during my summer vacations, we always made at least one day trip to Niagara Falls to enjoy its top attractions. With the Niagara Adventure Pass, you can see it’s top sights in less than 12 Hours. You can get to Niagara Falls on a full day tour , by bus or by renting a car. Check car ren tal prices here.

46. Niagara on the Lake

things to do in toronto niagara on the lake day triop

Niagara on the Lake is another great day trip from Toronto. You can combine a trip with Niagara Falls, or go on your own for a day of wine tasting and exploring some of the top vineyards in Canada.

Located on Lake Ontario, Niagara on the Lake definitely deserves more than one day, but if you only have a short time, it is at least worth checking out to see its historic downtown, take a wine tour to one of its wineries, stop at historic Fort George, or watch a show at the Shaw Festival. Check out more things to do in Niagara on the Lake here .

47. Toronto Zoo

If you want more wildlife viewing, the Toronto Zoo is a popular attraction. We’re not huge on zoos, but there is an argument that zoos help promote sustainability and awareness about wildlife. And if you are going to visit a zoo, the Toronto Zoo isn’t too bad.

The animals all have for the most part large enclosures and seem to be treated quite well. When I was working at YTV, we went to the Toronto Zoo a lot and the people who work there are very passionate about animal conservation and animal welfare.

48. Terra Lumina

Terra Lumina is an attraction at the Toronto Zoo that happens after dark. A 1.5 km walking path takes you through a light show and multimedia experience. Lazers shoot through the air, paths light up and wolf howls and polar bears are projected onto screens. It starts in the future 2099 and travels back in time.

Check out more tours from Toronto and Day Trips

  • 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City
  • The Ultimate Guide to the Best Weekend Getaways from Toronto
  • Things to do in Niagara Falls

49. Best Instagram-Worthy Spots in Toronto

things to do in toronto instagram photography

  • Sugar Beach – Located at Lower Jarvis Street beside to the Redpath Sugar Factory just down from Queens Quay.
  • Polsen Pier – Polsen Pier is an excellent waterfront attraction with entertainment and fantastic views of the Toronto skyline.
  • Brookfield Place – This beautiful piece of architecture is located in the city center on Yonge Street. When you enter this entertainment center, you are treated to stunning views of the Allan Lambert Gallery which is a 6-story enclosed courtyard.
  • Humber Bay Bridge – The Humber Bay Bridge is a pedestrian and cycling walkway connecting downtown Toronto with The Lakeshore.
  • Museum Subway Stop – located in the heart of the city center, the Museum Subway Stop is an easy place to grab beautiful photos of the museum columns adorning the platform.
  • Graffiti Alley – This isn’t only a great Instagram spot, Graffiti alley is one of the best places to visit in Toronto.

50. Best Toronto Festivals

things to do in toronto canada dave and deb

Toronto is a city of festivals and some of the not to miss events are:

  • Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) – Sept
  • Toronto Pride – June
  • Toronto Summer Music Festival – July
  • Luminato – June
  • Beaches Jazz Festival – July
  • Toronto Caribbean Carnival – July

Getting Around Toronto

how to get around toronto Canada

There is the  UP Express  that leaves from Toronto Pearson Terminal 1 every 15 minutes and takes you directly to Union Station. Get Your Guide offers  airport limousine transfers  in style that will take you to your downtown hotel.

Uber and Lyft can now answer calls at Toronto Pearson Airport. By Train, you arrive in Toronto at Union Statio n from all major hubs.

Hop on Hop Off Bus – If you want to get around the city, a great way to explore is the  Toronto Hop on Hop off Bus.   A 48-hour pass lets you explore Toronto’s main attractions as you hop on hop off at major tourist sites. Cost $49/It will help you see the highlights quickly and take you to some of the top sights in Toronto like Casa Loma, and a free harbour cruise.

Public Transit – Fares cost $3.25. If you buy tokens or a Presto Card it is $3.25 CAD. You can buy  Presto Cards in advance here. Toronto Transit Pass  – You can buy 1 day or a weekly pass. If you plan on an extended stay, a  Presto card  is a good option.

Bike Share Toronto   is good for short rides. A day pass is only $7. It’s important to note is that a pass is for 24 hours, but includes unlimited 30-minute rides. So after 30 minutes at a time, extra fees apply. So it’s best to use them to get from point A to point B. The good news is that rental stations are close to most attractions.

Car rentals – Toronto itself can sometimes be very spread out depending on where you are going. If you want to do day trips from Toronto, a rental car is a good option. RentalCars.com  is a good comparison website to find the right car rental for you.

Parking – Use Green Ps when parking in Toronto, they are the best deal and you  can download the app .

Uber –  In America Lyft is cheaper, but in Toronto Uber is cheaper and the drivers we’ve talked to say they prefer Uber over Lyft. (it’s the opposite of what we’ve heard from drivers in America. Interesting eh?

Read More Toronto Travel Tips

  • Where to Stay in Toronto – A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods
  • Things to do in Niagara Falls – What to do, Where to Eat & Where to Stay
  • 35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada
  • Toronto to Niagara Falls by Bus -It’s Easy with Busbud
  • 19 Most Epic Things to do in Ontario

And there you have it. Our ultimate guide for things to do in Toronto. If you are visiting Toronto, this guide should have you covered with all the amazing things to see and do! What did we miss?

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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42 thoughts on “50 Best Things to do in Toronto Canada in 2024”

I had a great time visiting Toronto last year. I enjoyed the St. Lawrence Market and the Royal Ontario Museum. And the art and murals around the city are amazing!

Nice blog read and love those places.

Great post! I love Toronto and I’m trying to get here this year.

I am researching on Canada life now a days and this article is really very interesting and informative. Thanks for sharing valuable information.

Great article Dave and Deb. Very detailed and well explained. I’m sure it will help a lot of aspiring travelers in navigating their way around Toronto and making the most of their time.

In this great list of best things to do in Toronto, I would like to add a few more spots that I think your readers would love to visit.

1. The 3D Toronto Sign on Nathan Philips Square has been a new edition and has become a famous Instagram spot due to it’s urban aesthetics. 2. Toronto Island Park, a chain of 15 small Islands in Lake Ontario. A great place if you want to enjoy the skyline, pursue water sports, ride bicycle or even relax. 3. Ripley’s Aquarium, a walk through aquarium with an almost astounding 16000 exotic sea creatures and more than 450 species

Hopefully this helps. Can’t wait for your next blog And if you are interested in knowing a bit more about Canada, do visit my Canadian travel blog and guide. I’m sure you and your readers will find it very helpful

Traveling to Toronto is an impressive thing for people.

As a Torontonian, great piece. One little thing…. that picture of Toronto Islands, is not the islands. That’s the Leslie Street Spit that curls out into the lake near the islands. Not many activities on the spit, but you can reach it from land, no ferry required. Take a bike, it goes out there a long way. Great spot for birders too.

Toronto is very famous for activities, art, landscapes and the friendliness of people. I also want to this place with my family. Thanks for your writing!

Thanks for your writing! Let’s come to Toronto and enjoy the beauty of this country.

I love Toronto so much. It is a beautiful place for people to visit. In the future, I will travel there with my family if I have a chance.

I Love the city of Toronto. I remember taking the train from Ottawa into Toronto a few Summers ago. Real efficient rail system. The city was very clean and the people were so friendly. I would say Eaton Centre and just walking up and down Yonge street were a few of my favorite things to do there. I would move to Toronto in a heart beat if not for the Winters. Great city though!

Very Interesting post. I am from Dubai and its a dream for me to visit Toronto. But i hope one day i will be there.

Excellent post – so many great tips and very helpful

This list is the best one online! Thanks a lot

Thanks for sharing such a big list of places to explore in Toronto. The whole idea of breaking down all these spots into different sections really helps to go through them.

Thank you for the amazing tips and knowledgeable guide you have shared through your blog. All the placed you have mentioned are beautiful and must be visited once in a lifetime.

Thank you so much for these wonderful tips. This is a great post and place you visited. Lovely pictures.

Nice post! Thanks for sharing!

We found your site and got loads of inspiration and great stories! Toronto is on our Bucket list and this article was very helpful comprehensive stuff!

Keep up the great work and content! Safe Travels!

Great article! I look forward to visit Ontario some day, and now I know what I will do when I get there!

Toronto is seriously a wonderful place to visit.

These are really very best things you shared and beautiful pictures you capture. I would love to go there.

This is so informative, and I think it is a perfect guide for the tourist to enjoy their visit to Toronto to the fullest.

Nice post and awesome pics! Good Job!

WOW, I Like Toronto – Thanks for sharing this….

Simply Sooperb, After reading this post, planned to go Toronto now with my friends.

I love the sights and sounds of Toronto. Thanks for sharing.

Agreed. great list!

Thanks for sharing the post. Toronto is the beauty.

Love the photo essay of Toronto.

Hi Dave and Deb,

Thank you for posting this blog. Very concise and well laid out in different sections; makes very easy to look for the information. And yes your pictures are great too !!

I am inspired.

Thanks Alok

Hi Davie and Deb,

Thanks for sharing such a big list of places to explore in Toronto. The whole idea of breaking down all these spots into different sections really helps to go through them. I personally have only been to couple of places but now I have a list to go and visit. Thank you for inspiring .

Regards Alok

Very well concise summary on Toronto. We are planning to go for family trip but could not understand where we should spend much time but your article helps me we have decided to visit this place. Thanks.

What a nice tourism object !

Hello Dave,

It’s the best thing to do experiencing your hometown as a tourist, did it myself two years ago when in Paris, to be honest, I did discover a lot of places that I wasn’t aware they exist at all, some secret places and streets. I don’t really like Hop and Hop buses, but will definitely try one when in Toronto.

Thank you for the tips.

As a Torontonian, great piece. One little thing…. that picture of Toronto Islands, is not the islands. That’s the Leslie Street Spit that curls out into the lake near the islands. Not many activities on the spit, but you can reach it from land, no ferry required. Take a bike, it goes out there a long way. Great spot for birders too.

This all looks wow…Simply WOW!! Thanks for sharing this….

Wow! This looks incredible post and information. These are really very best things you shared and beautiful pictures you capture. I would love to go there.

Waw! I got that article at the right time, this is a very informative and helpful for me because I am going to Toronto next month.

Amazing Lists, nice way to explain each part of Toronto.. !! Will follow each place as you mention in your blog.

These ideas all look like so much fun! It’s a great city. There’s so much to do there and so many places to explore. Such a beautiful pictures you captured.. Thank you so much for sharing a great post and information.. Keep sharing!!

toronto travel guide book

  • Destinations

Toronto Travel Guide

It’s tempting to think Toronto, Canada’s economic powerhouse, is all work and no play. But the nation’s most populous city is also a top place to have fun. Vast green spaces, including a gorgeous waterfront, earn Toronto the moniker “city within a park.” The city’s energetic spirit also fuels hopping nightlife, sophisticated shopping, eclectic restaurants, and teams in virtually every professional sport. Don’t miss the thriving arts scene—including theater, concerts, galleries, and red-carpet film festivals. — Michele Peterson

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toronto travel guide book

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Top 10 Toronto (Pocket Travel Guide)

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Lorraine Johnson

Top 10 Toronto (Pocket Travel Guide) Paperback – May 5, 2015

Whether you're on the hunt for the best restaurants, the loveliest parks and beaches, or activities around Niagara Falls, our Top 10 Travel Guide packs the best of Toronto into one little book. We have insider tips about great brunch spots, fantastic music and theater venues, and must-see places for sports lovers visiting Toronto. Whether you're in search of the best shops, malls, and markets, or you're looking for hotel and restaurant recommendations for any budget, our Top 10 Travel Guide has everything a traveler needs to experience the city of Toronto.

Discover DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Top 10 Toronto

True to its name, this Top 10 guidebook covers all major sights and attractions in easy-to-use "top 10" lists that help you plan the vacation that's right for you.

  • "Don't miss" destination highlights.
  • Things to do and places to eat, drink, and shop by area.
  • Free, color pull-out map (print edition), plus maps and photographs throughout.
  • Walking tours and day-trip itineraries.
  • Traveler tips and recommendations.
  • Local drink and dining specialties to try.
  • Museums, festivals, outdoor activities.
  • Creative and quirky best-of lists and more.

The perfect pocket-size travel companion: DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Top 10 Toronto

Recommended : For an in-depth guidebook to Canada, check out DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Canada , which offers the most complete cultural coverage of Canada; 3-D cross-section illustrations of major sights and attractions; thousands of photographs, illustrations, and maps; and more.

  • Print length 128 pages
  • Language English
  • Publisher DK Eyewitness Travel
  • Publication date May 5, 2015
  • Dimensions 4.06 x 0.34 x 7.56 inches
  • ISBN-10 1465426809
  • ISBN-13 978-1465426802
  • See all details

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DK Eyewitness Top 10 Toronto (Pocket Travel Guide)

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"This [ DK Eyewitness Travel: Top 10 ] might be the best traveling companion to throw in your pack. It's a slim and sleek overview…loaded with practical and useful content." – Gadling.com

"Known…for its four-color maps, photos and illustrations, the [DK] Eyewitness Guides are extremely user-friendly for travelers who want their information delivered in a concise, visual way." – Chicago Tribune

"The best option…Color photos, maps, and diagrams bring the place to life." – The Philadelphia Inquirer

About the Author

About DK Eyewitness Travel Guides : For more than two decades, DK Eyewitness Travel Guides have helped travelers experience the world through the history, art, architecture, and culture of their destinations. Expert travel writers and researchers provide independent editorial advice, recommendations, and reviews. With guidebooks to hundreds of places around the globe available in print and digital formats, DK Eyewitness Travel Guides show travelers how they can discover more.

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ DK Eyewitness Travel; Revised edition (May 5, 2015)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 128 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1465426809
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1465426802
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 7.2 ounces
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 4.06 x 0.34 x 7.56 inches
  • #49 in Toronto Travel Guides
  • #118 in Ontario Travel Guides
  • #5,290 in Tourist Destinations & Museums Guides

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Lorraine johnson.

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IMAGES

  1. Toronto City Map & Travel Guide by National Geographic Maps, Folded

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  3. Official Toronto Visitor Guide 2019 by Destination Toronto

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  26. Top 10 Toronto (Pocket Travel Guide)

    DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Top 10 Toronto is your pocket guide to the very best of the city of Toronto.. Whether you're on the hunt for the best restaurants, the loveliest parks and beaches, or activities around Niagara Falls, our Top 10 Travel Guide packs the best of Toronto into one little book. We have insider tips about great brunch spots, fantastic music and theater venues, and must-see ...