city of toronto tourism services

• 1.1 Central Toronto
• 1.2 Outside Central Toronto
• 1.3 Outer suburbs and Greater Toronto Area
• 2.1 History
• 2.2 Climate
• 2.3 Visitor information
• 3.1.1 Toronto Pearson
• 3.1.2 Billy Bishop Airport
• 3.1.3 Airlines at Billy Bishop Airport
• 3.1.4 Other airports
• 3.2.1 Bus terminals
• 3.2.2 Bus operators
• 3.3 By train
• 3.4.1 Transit bylaws
• 4.2.1.1 Paying by Presto
• 4.2.1.2 Paying by cash
• 4.2.2 Subway
• 4.2.3 Streetcars
• 4.2.4 Other services
• 4.3 By taxi
• 4.4 By ride hailing
• 4.5 By bicycle
• 4.6 By ferry
• 5.1 Museums
• 5.2 Landmarks
• 6.1 Outdoors
• 6.2 Arts & entertainment
• 6.3 Annual events
• 6.4 Exploring neighbourhoods
• 6.5 Sports teams & arenas
• 8.2 Jerk chicken
• 8.3 Patties (or "Jamaican patties" or "beef patties")
• 8.4 Doubles
• 8.5 Italian veal sandwiches
• 8.6 Portuguese tarts
• 8.7 Street meat
• 8.8 Farmer's markets
• 8.9 Interesting food districts
• 8.11 Vegetarian
• 10.1 Hotels
• 10.2 Hostels
• 10.3 Bed & Breakfast
• 12.1 Internet
• 12.3 Newspapers
• 13.2 Homeless
• 13.3 Pedestrians
• 13.4 Weather
• 14.1 Consulates
• 15.1 Golden Horseshoe
• 15.2 Ontario
• 15.3 United States
• 15.4 Elsewhere in Canada

Toronto is a diverse, energetic and liveable city, home to many tourist attractions, and seemingly endless dining, shopping and entertainment possibilities. It's the most populous city in Canada , the centre of the country's financial sector, and the provincial capital of Ontario .

Toronto is one of the most culturally and ethnically diverse cities in the world: more than 80 ethnic communities are represented, and over half of the city's residents were born outside Canada.

Districts [ edit ]

Toronto is made up of varied and unique neighbourhoods. Covering more than 600 km 2 (230 sq mi), Toronto stretches some 32 km (20 mi) along the shores of Lake Ontario. The city is laid out on a very straightforward grid pattern. Streets rarely deviate from the grid, except when topography interferes, such as the curving Don River Valley, and to a lesser degree the Humber and Rouge valleys at opposite ends of the city. Some main thoroughfares intersect the grid at angles. For travel purposes, we have divided Toronto into twelve districts:

Central Toronto [ edit ]

The dense urban core of Toronto. It includes many of the city's attractions and hotels.

Outside Central Toronto [ edit ]

These are the older suburbs that ring the downtown followed by an outer ring of post-war suburbs. There are fewer attractions here, but if you have the time, some of the neighbourhoods are well worth visiting.

Outer suburbs and Greater Toronto Area [ edit ]

Although there are fewer attractions, there are ethnic enclaves with ethnic foods and other activities that may be of interest to a traveller in the newer, outer suburbs of Toronto. For example, Markham 's population is 48% Chinese and has a lot of interesting shops, businesses, and restaurants. For travel information for the newer suburbs, see the Greater Toronto Area article.

Understand [ edit ]

Toronto has a population of 2.7 million, and is the heart of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) which has 6.4 million people. It also anchors the Golden Horseshoe region, which wraps around Lake Ontario from Toronto to Niagara Falls, home to over 9.2 million residents, approximately a quarter of Canada's entire population. Toronto is the fourth largest city and fifth largest urban agglomeration in North America .

Distances between cities in the area can be great as it sprawls along, outward and even wraps around the western end of Lake Ontario; public transit is not always effective enough to make it a quick or seamless trip. Many suburban residents rely on private cars to get around.

Toronto is also known as "the 416" after its first area code (although now 647 and 437 area codes are also used); or since 2014, "the 6", a term coined by the rapper Drake, which represents the area code).

Outlying suburbs are also known as "the 905" after their area code, although this code is also used in the Hamilton and the Niagara Peninsula , stretching from Cobourg and Colborne in the east to the border in Niagara Falls to the southwest.

More than half of its residents were born outside of Canada, and as a result the city is fortunate to host many vibrant bustling neighbourhoods with street signs in several languages.

A popular urban myth has it that the United Nations rated Toronto as "the most multicultural city in the world". While the UN and its agencies are not in the habit of rating cities, it remains a fact that Canada is a nation of immigrants, and Toronto demonstrates this abundantly. A UN agency lists Toronto as second only to Miami as the city with the most foreign-born residents, as about half the city's residents were born outside of Canada. This has been true since the early 20th century, meaning that new waves of immigrants from diverse places have arrived. Toronto's residents represent far more cultural and language groups than Miami, which may be a better measure of multi-culturalism. Most immigrants either pass through Toronto on their way to other parts of the country or stay in Toronto permanently. Many people born abroad consider themselves Canadian as much as native-born Canadians and will be offended if treated otherwise. Within Toronto, most ethnic groups have worked their way into the fabric of Canadian society but retain their distinct ways such as language, dress (if only for special occasions), customs, and food.

Toronto is home to many ethnic festivals throughout the year, several radio stations that broadcast in various languages, and two multilingual television channels. The City of Toronto provides services in 16 different languages while its public transit helpline provides service in 70 languages. Even large department stores such as The Bay in downtown Toronto advertise service in 9 languages. The lingua franca of Toronto, however, remains English.

While older tourist promotional material may claim the Toronto means "meeting place", the city most likely takes its name from the Mohawk word Tkaronto, meaning "where there are trees standing in the water."

History [ edit ]

Spawned out of post-glacial alluvial deposits and bluffs, the area was populated at different times by Iroquois and later Wyandot (Huron) peoples.

European settlement began in the mid-1700s when, drawn by the natural harbour formed by the Toronto Peninsula (now the Toronto Islands), the French built a seldom-occupied fort (Fort Rouillé) near today's Exhibition Place. The city then grew out of a backwoods English trading post established as York in 1793 (it was re-named "Toronto" in 1834). During the War of 1812, Fort York was an important base for the British, and was destroyed during a major battle.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Toronto overtook Montreal as the financial and economic powerhouse of Canada.

In 1998, the cities of Toronto, Scarborough , North York, Etobicoke , and York and the Borough of East York amalgamated to form the current City of Toronto.

Climate [ edit ]

Toronto's climate is on the whole on the cool side, and variable conditions can be expected. Come prepared for winter: winters are cold (temperatures average -3.8°C (25°F) in January), mostly cloudy, at times snowy and uncomfortably windy. However, the type of extreme cold experienced further north in Canada usually lasts for no more than a couple of days at a time. Daylight hours are short and run from 7:45AM to 4:45PM. The city experiences warm and humid summers with an average high of 27°C (80°F) and a low of 18°C (65°F) in July/August with many muggy evenings but rarely extreme heat. On average, the temperature exceeds 30°C (86°F) only 12 days per year, but hotter air masses often arrive with moderately high humidity levels. Summer days are long, with the sun up as late as 9PM, and sunrises around 5:45AM. Late spring/early summer and early fall are generally considered to be the best times to visit for weather and less crowds, mid-summer is the peak tourist season, but visitors will find that Toronto's vibrancy extends through the winter with outdoor skating rinks and bundled up club-goers, etc. Toronto's public buildings are nearly all air-conditioned and fully heated.

Sometimes during the winter, severe storms can slow down transportation and activities in the city for a day or two. In the summer, thunderstorms occur from time to time, most lasting less than an hour.

Areas closer to the downtown core are generally 1 to 1.5°C warmer in winter due to the urban heat island effect. For the rest of the year, areas close to Lake Ontario are warmer by about 1°C due to the moderating effects of the lake. This is especially prominent in March and November when the city receives rain while areas just north of the city receive snow.

Visitor information [ edit ]

• 43.644829 -79.381781 1 Ontario Travel Information Centre , 65 Front Street West ( within Union Station; follow signs towards UP Express ), ☏ +1 416-314-5899 , [email protected] . M-Sa 9AM-5PM (closed Su) . ( updated Jan 2024 )
• Destination Toronto . Tourist information from the Toronto Convention and Visitors Association. ( updated Jan 2024 )

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ], toronto pearson [ edit ].

The main article describes ground transportation to and from Toronto Pearson.

Billy Bishop Airport [ edit ]

Airlines at Billy Bishop Airport [ edit ]

One of the main benefits of flying into Billy Bishop is its proximity to the downtown core. Upon landing, you can be downtown within ten minutes. A tunnel under the channel takes you to the city. A free ferry service also makes the short crossing: it is just 121 metres, the world's shortest regularly-scheduled ferry route. It operates between TCCA and the mainland every 15 minutes: see full schedule . Once on the mainland, a free shuttle bus connects the terminal with the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, across the street from Union Station.

TTC streetcars are available a short walk north from the mainland ferry terminal. Route 511 Bathurst provides service north along Bathurst, to Bathurst subway station. Route 509 Harbourfront travels east along the waterfront (Queens Quay) to Union Station. Both routes end a short distance to the west at Exhibition Place. However, the most convenient connection to TTC subway and GO Transit services are via the free shuttle to Union Station.

Other airports [ edit ]

Hamilton International Airport , ( YHM  IATA ), about 80 km (50 mi) from downtown Toronto and Niagara Falls, is served by WestJet along with seasonal service by Air Transat and Sunwing to sun destinations. See section on John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport for ground transportation including buses to Toronto.

For frugal travellers coming from the United States, Buffalo-Niagara International Airport , ( BUF  IATA ), is another option. Flights to Buffalo tend to be significantly cheaper than to Pearson, but then you still have to get to Toronto. Megabus , the airline-type coach service with varying prices and required early booking, runs a daily bus that takes 3 hours, including the border crossing. Several private livery agencies will drive you there for a fee (usually in the $200 range, give or take), or rental cars are available at the airport if you prefer to do the drive yourself.

By bus [ edit ]

Bus terminals [ edit ].

The main bus terminal is in downtown Toronto adjacent to Union railway station:

Here is a list of minor terminals and stops in various parts of the city. Check the Wikipedia link for a list of bus routes serving each terminal.

See also Toronto Pearson International Airport, Ground Transportation , for more intercity bus routes.

Bus operators [ edit ]

• Book A Ride . Service from Ottawa via Kingston, Brockville, Belleville. Service from London via Kitchener/Waterloo. ( updated Jan 2023 )
• FlixBus . Bus service to Toronto from Ottawa (4.75 hours), Peterborough , Kingston , Whitby , Kitchener (2-2.25 hours), St. Catharines (1.5 hours), Niagara Falls (1.75 hours), Welland , Port Colborne , Hamilton , Brantford , Chatham-Kent , London (3 hours), Sarnia , Windsor (6 hours), Sudbury , Parry Sound , Barrie , Detroit (6.25-6.5 hours), and Buffalo (2.75-4 hours). ( updated Apr 2022 )
• Intercity Bus . Service from London , Sarnia , Strathroy , Woodstock , and Kitchener . ( updated Mar 2024 )
• To Toronto from North Bay including stops in Huntsville , Bracebridge , Gravenhurst , Washago (some trips), Orillia (stop trips), and Barrie . Travel time to Toronto from North Bay is 5.75-6 hours, from Huntsville is 3.25-4 hours, from Barrie is 1.25 hours. Connections available at North Bay from Cochrane , Kirkland Lake , Ottawa , and Timmins .
• Travel to Toronto from Winnipeg involves timed transfers between bus routes at Thunder Bay , Sault Ste. Marie , and Sudbury. To reach Toronto from Winnipeg is 1 day 9 hours.
• Onex Bus , ☏ +1-647-477-5500 , [email protected] . Bus service to Toronto from Kitchener , Stratford , London , Burlington , and Niagara Falls . ( updated Jul 2021 )
• Red Arrow , toll-free: +1-800-232-1958 , [email protected] . Service from Kingston and Ottawa . ( updated May 2022 )
• Rider Express , toll-free: +1-833-583-3636 . Offers service to Toronto from Ottawa via Kingston and Belleville . Travel time to Toronto from Ottawa is 5.25 hours and from Kingston is 3 hours. There is also service from Peterborough two days a week. ( updated Mar 2021 )
• Between Southampton and Vaughan including stops in Port Elgin , Kincardine , Walkerton , Hanover , Orangeville , and Toronto Pearson International Airport .
• Trailways of New York . Service from Detroit , Windsor, London, and Chatham-Kent. ( updated Apr 2023 )

By train [ edit ]

The following are the railway services operating out of Union Station:

• The Barrie line serves Vaughan and Aurora plus limited weekend service to Newmarket , East Gwillimbury and Barrie .
• The Kitchener line serves Brampton with limited weekday service to Georgetown , Acton , Guelph and Kitchener .
• The Lakeshore West line operates daily serving Mississauga , Oakville , Burlington , Hamilton and on weekends St. Catharines and Niagara Falls .
• The Lakeshore East line operates daily serving Pickering , Ajax , and Whitby and Oshawa .
• The Stouffville line operates daily serving Markham .
• Other GO rail destinations have only rush-hour, peak-direction service.
• Union Pearson Express ( UP Express ), ☏ +1 416-869-3300 , toll-free: +1-844-438-6687 . Operates trains between Union Station and Toronto Pearson International Airport. Trip time is 25 minutes. Trains operate every 30 minutes daily from early morning until the late evening. As of April 2022, one-way fare for adults is $12.35, but it is $9.25 if paid by credit, debit or Presto card . ( updated May 2022 )
• Between Montreal and Toronto including stops in Dorval , Cornwall , Brockville , Kingston , Belleville , Cobourg , and Oshawa . Travel time to Toronto from Montreal is 5.25-5.5 hours and from Kingston is 2.5-2.75 hours.
• Between Ottawa and Toronto including stops in Smiths Falls , Brockville, Gananoque , Kingston, Napanee , Belleville, Trenton , Cobourg, Port Hope , and Oshawa. Travel time to Toronto from Ottawa is 4.25-4.75 hours and from Kingston is 2.5-2.75 hours.
• Between Sarnia and Toronto including stops in London , St. Marys , Stratford , Kitchener , Guelph , Georgetown , Brampton , and Mississauga . Travel time to Toronto from Sarnia is 5 hours, from London is 3.75 hours, and from Kitchener is 1.5 hours.
• Between Vancouver and Toronto on The Canadian , which operates several trips per week. Travel time to Toronto from Vancouver is 3 days 20.5 hours, from Kamloops is 3 days 10.25 hours, from Jasper is 3 days, from Edmonton is 2 days 16.75 hours, from Saskatoon is 2 days 5.5 hours, from Winnipeg is 1 day 14 hours, and from Sudbury is 9.75 hours. Stops between Sudbury and Toronto include Parry Sound (5.75 hours from Toronto) and Washago .
• Between Windsor and Toronto including stops in Chatham , London, Ingersoll , Woodstock , Brantford , Burlington , and Oakville . Travel time to Toronto from Windsor is 4.25-4.5 hours, from London is 3.25-3.5 hours, and from Brantford is 1.25 hours. There are no direct trains from Chicago , but you can catch Amtrak's Wolverine service from Chicago to Detroit, then transfer onto one of VIA Rail's trains after crossing the border into Windsor by public transport.

By car [ edit ]

Major highways leading into Toronto are the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW), the 404, the 401, the 400, and the 427. Toronto is the largest city in Canada, so signs pointing you to Toronto are common. Traffic on incoming highways can be extremely heavy especially during rush hours. In the downtown core there are many turn restrictions, particularly from main thoroughfares to other main thoroughfares (e.g. Yonge to Dundas Streets).

The main streets in Toronto are laid out in a grid pattern that makes it one of the easiest cities to get around in by car. Getting from point to point anywhere in the city can be achieved with only a few turns. Parking in the downtown core can be expensive and hard to find, but tends to be plentiful and inexpensive or free in the outer districts of Etobicoke , North York and Scarborough . Although there is an extensive grid of local bus routes, travel by automobile may be more faster and more convenient in the outer districts.

Transit bylaws [ edit ]

Toronto follows some bylaws related to the transit system (especially streetcars) that often confuse or surprise visiting drivers:

• Yield to public transit buses signalling to merge left into traffic from a bus stop.
• Stay out of reserved public transit lanes during the rush hours, except to make a right-hand turn at the next cross street. A few transit lanes have restrictions from 7AM-7PM. While the restrictions are in effect, only transit vehicles, taxis and bicycles may use these lanes.
• Avoid King Street between Jarvis and Bathurst streets as no through automobile traffic is allowed; such traffic must turn right after travelling a few blocks as per signage. Through traffic in this zone is allowed only for streetcars (trams) and bicycles.
• Never pass a streetcar running in your direction that is stopped in the middle of the street with its doors open. Passing is illegal and dangerous for passengers boarding or leaving the streetcar. Also, you should yield to people entering the street to board an approaching streetcar. Continue only after the streetcar doors close. Exception: You may pass a streetcar where there is a boarding platform between the streetcar and traffic lane, but watch out for pedestrians walking between the platform and the sidewalk.
• Give wide berth to streetcars turning at a street intersection; streetcars have a wide overhang on curves, which is indicated on the road by dashed white lines. If your car is stopped too close to a streetcar curve, you may be forced to back up or squeeze more to the right.
• Give wide berth to emergency vehicles with sirens or flashing red lights, and pull over to the side of the road safely but quickly.

Get around [ edit ]

Toronto is huge, and most roads run for very long distances. Streetcar rail, subway rail, and intercity rail services are clean and efficient, and it's entirely possible to get around Toronto without a car, especially downtown. You may find it quicker and easier to drive, but the highways regularly backup during rush hour (7AM-10AM and 4PM-7PM). Toronto has plentiful parking garages downtown, but they are very expensive.

Many in Toronto travel by bicycle (especially in the warmer months) and this mode is very convenient for getting around the downtown district. Not all motorists will give way to cyclists, and not all cyclists comply with the rules of the road; caution is recommended.

Getting around by car is the easiest method to get around outside of the downtown area. Roads are wide, have many lanes, and parking is free and plentiful. Arterial roads are generally laid out 2 km (1.2 mi) apart, although they are closer in the west and east ends of the city.

There are many freeways within Toronto.

• Highway 401 (locally, the four-oh-one) crosses the north side of the city and is very busy. Highway 401 has a collector-express system. The express lanes of the highway have fewer exits, while the collector lanes generally have all the exits. After every 3 or 4 exits, there is an interchange between the collectors and express lanes, so motorists who need to exit can get into the collectors, and those travelling a longer distance can go into the express lanes. When there's a lot of traffic, it is possible for the collectors to be jammed, but not the express, and vice versa. It is best to listen to traffic reports in order to avoid traffic in this case. AM 680 on your radio has traffic and weather reports every 10 minutes (on the 1's).
• Highway 427 crosses the west side of the city. It begins at the QEW/Gardiner Expressway interchange and ends in Vaughan . It also has a short express-collector system near the airport; be sure to follow the signs in order to get where you need to go.
• Highway 400 has a short stub in Toronto and ends at Highway 401. Highway 400 goes north into the suburbs and later to Barrie .
• Allen Road is a short freeway that was supposed to be part of a longer Spadina Expressway. The rest of the expressway was cancelled and Allen Road was the short stub that remained. Allen Road begins at Eglinton Avenue, and ends north of Highway 401 and becomes Dufferin Street. Traffic going south is usually backed up because the freeway ends abruptly at a signalized T-intersection at Eglinton.
• Highway 404 also has a short stub in Toronto, and goes north to the suburbs, such as Aurora and Newmarket . Highway 404, after interchanging with Highway 401 when going south, becomes the Don Valley Parkway.
• Don Valley Parkway (DVP) is a freeway that connects northern Toronto to downtown Toronto. Exits on the DVP require motorists to slow down more than you would on other Ontario expressways, due to the nature of the terrain. The DVP begins at the Gardiner Expressway in downtown and ends at Highway 401 in the north, then contines as Highway 404.
• Gardiner Expressway is a freeway serving downtown Toronto. It begins at QEW/Highway 427 interchange and crossing downtown Toronto, ending at Don Valley Parkway. Half of the route is elevated, making for great views of the city.
• Highway 409 is a short freeway designed to connect directly with Toronto Pearson International Airport . It begins at Highway 401, interchanges with Highway 427, and ends at the airport.

Getting around in downtown Toronto by car is a lot harder, however, and perhaps taking transit might be better. Parking is scarce and could be expensive, depending on where you park and whether you park on the street or on private lots. Driving on downtown streets also takes a lot more patience as speeds are slower, and hazards are more numerous.

By public transit [ edit ]

Toronto Transit Commission ( TTC ), ☏ +1 416-393-4636 . Toronto's main transit system. TTC consists of buses, streetcars (trams) and subway lines. ( updated May 2022 )

Fares [ edit ]

The following are the fares effective August 15, 2023:

• Cash fare: regular $3.35, senior (65+) $2.30, youth (13-19) $2.40
• Contactless credit or debit card: regular $3.30
• Presto card: regular $3.30, senior $2.25, youth $2.35
• Presto ticket: one-ride $3.35, two-ride $6.70, day pass $13.50
• Children (12 or younger): free

Child, youth and senior riders must be prepared to show proof of age for reduced fares.

Paying by Presto [ edit ]

Presto is an electronic fare payment system used on the TTC where riders pay fares by tapping a contactless credit or debit card , Presto card or Presto ticket on a Presto fare reader. The Presto fare system is used by most public transit services in the Greater Toronto Area, including the TTC and GO Transit.

Presto card is a multiple-use, electronic fare card with a stored balance. Unless you are eligible for reduced senior/youth fares, it is simpler to use a credit or debit card instead of purchasing a Presto card. Presto cards can be purchased for $4 plus a minimum balance ($5 or less) at the UP Express service counter at Pearson International Airport, from vending machines at subway stations and Pearson International Airport (cash, credit cards and debit cards are accepted at the large black machines), at the GO Transit service counter at Union Station, TTC head office at Davisville station and at most Shoppers Drug Mart stores across the city. Presto cards are automatically configured to deduct the regular adult fare. For reduced senior/youth fares, the customer must have the card's fare type changed at a purchase point (not a vending machine); a government-issued proof of age may be required.

Presto tickets are single-use, paper-disposable electronic tickets with no stored balance which must be used within 90 days of purchase. If you are paying a single-ride fare with a credit or debit card, you do not need Presto tickets. They can only be used for TTC services within the City of Toronto and for TTC buses going to and from Pearson Airport. They are sold from Presto vending machines at all TTC subway stations and at many Shoppers Drug Mart locations across Toronto and come in three varieties: one-ride, two-ride and day pass. The TTC Presto day pass allows one person unlimited travel from first tap until 3AM the next morning.

Using Presto, you must tap your credit or debit card, Presto card or Presto ticket on the Presto fare reader each time you enter a subway station, or board a streetcar or bus. To avoid accidental double charging, keep any unused credit and debit cards away from the Presto reader, and always tap the same card or ticket during your trip. If travelling as a group, each rider must use a separate card or ticket.

Customers paying a single-ride TTC fare with a credit, debit or Presto card, or a 1-ride Presto ticket are entitled to two hours of unlimited travel on all TTC services, allowing unlimited stopovers or a round trip.

For riders paying by credit, debit or Presto card, free or discounted transfers are available between the TTC and the following transit operators: GO Transit , Hamilton Street Railway, Burlington Transit, Oakville Transit, MiWay ( Mississauga ), Brampton Transit, York Region Transit and Durham Region Transit. For such trips, riders pay only one fare instead of one fare per operator. If transferring to or from GO Transit, only the GO fare is charged by the end of the trip. Such trips must be completed within two hours, or three hours if using GO Transit. This free transfer is not available to riders paying by Presto ticket or using UP Express trains serving Pearson Airport.

Paying by cash [ edit ]

If you pay by cash, exact cash (no change provided) is required. You must request for paper transfer (also called a POP ticket) to serve as proof of payment for fare inspectors and to transfer to another TTC vehicle on connecting TTC vehicles. Paper transfers are valid for a one-way continuous trip and stopovers and return trips are not permitted (unlike paying by credit, debit or Presto card). Unstaffed automated subway entrances do not accept paper transfers. If you are paying the regular fare, Presto tickets are a better alternative than cash.

The procedures for cash payment vary by vehicle mode:

• At subway stations, there is at least one staffed entrance where you can deposit exact cash into a fare box. After passing the fare gates, obtain a transfer from a red machine labelled "transfer/POP".
• On buses, pay exact cash fare at the front door of the vehicle, and ask the driver for a paper transfer.
• On streetcars, there are cash payment machines near the second and third doors of the vehicle. After you insert exact cash fare into the machine, it will give you a paper POP/transfer.

Subway [ edit ]

The subway is the fastest means to move across the city, with trains typically arriving every few minutes. Trains operate M-Sa roughly 6AM-1:30AM, and Su 8AM-1:30AM.

The subway system has three lines:

• Line   1   Yonge-University runs in a 'U' shape, travelling from North York south along Yonge Street, through the downtown area to Union Station, then travelling north through North York to Vaughan .
• Line   2   Bloor-Danforth runs east-west along Bloor Street and Danforth Avenue.
• Line   4   Sheppard runs east from Line 1 along Sheppard Avenue to Fairview Mall at Don Mills Station.

Line   3   Scarborough is no longer in service. Until the extension of the Line 2 underground subway opens (estimated 2030), the service has been replaced by interim bus services including the 903 Kennedy-Scarborough Express running between Kennedy and Scarborough Centre stations, and 8 other TTC bus routes. These routes have been extended from Scarborough Centre to operate as express services to Kennedy station. (All TTC bus routes that depart from Platform B at Kennedy station service Scarborough Centre station before continuing along their respective routes.)

Sections of the subway system often close on weekends or late evening for maintenance, with buses replacing each closed section. The TTC gives notice of such closures a few days in advance. Expect a longer travel time during such closures; staff will be on hand to direct passengers.

Streetcars [ edit ]

• TTC Subway and Streetcar Map , omitting most streetcar diversions, specifically those for streetcar routes 501 and 504 west of Shaw Street
• Streetcar Service Changes , explaining diversions and bus replacements by route with maps

Most streetcar lines serve the south, central part of the city.

• The TTC often diverts streetcars around construction projects potentially resulting in a substantially changed route for several months. Maps posted on the TTC website, in stations and in waiting shelters generally do not reflect such diversions. Ideally, riders should check the Streetcar Services Changes link above for diversions to avoid ending up in the wrong place.
• Buses replacing all or part of a streetcar route will bear the streetcar route number and route name.

Toronto is one of the few cities in North America (and the only city in Canada) to have kept any of its streetcar routes. The 501 Queen route is an attraction in itself passing through a wide range of ethnic and cultural neighbourhoods. In 2010, it received special recognition from National Geographic magazine for being one of the longest streetcar routes in North America; however, the route is shorter today with the 507 Long Branch route being the western continuation of 501 Queen.

Caution: when getting on and off streetcars, make sure that the traffic is stopped in the lane next to the streetcar. Also, be aware of pickpockets in crowded rush hour situations.

Other services [ edit ]

From roughly 1:30AM to 6AM (8AM on Sundays), the subway system and all day-time streetcar and bus routes are replaced by the Blue Night Network [dead link] . Night bus and streetcar routes are all numbered in the 300-series, and use the same fares as day-time routes. Night route 320 Yonge replaces the subway line 1 and offers frequent service. Most other night routes have 30-minute frequency.

Express bus routes (numbered in the 900 series) often follow local bus routes but with fewer stops, stopping mainly at transfer points. The 900 Airport Express goes to Toronto Pearson Airport. Some express routes operate all day, every day; others may run only during rush hours. Fares are the same as on other TTC routes.

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxis are plentiful and safe, but not cheap. The base rate is $4.25, with an average 5 km (3.1 mi) trip costing $13. As with most big cities, driving a car downtown can be annoying; parking is often hard to find and expensive, and traffic along certain streets can make vehicle travel slower than mass transit. However, traveling longer distances, when not close to subway lines is often significantly faster by car or taxi.

By ride hailing [ edit ]

• Lyft . ( updated Jul 2022 )
• Uber . UberX service is available via smartphone app throughout the city with fares running roughly half the price of a taxi. An average 5 km (3.1 mi) trip costs roughly $8.25. ( updated Jul 2022 )

By bicycle [ edit ]

Toronto is trying very hard to become a bike-friendly city, with dedicated bike lanes being added all the time. There are many casual cyclists out all the time. And it is fast: door to door, in all of downtown Toronto, a bike beats a car or transit nearly every time.

There can be hostility between automobiles and cyclists. Generally speaking, if you are on the road, you are expected to obey the same laws as cars, and you are not allowed to ride on the sidewalk.

The city is predominantly flat, aside from a general climb away from Lake Ontario and the deeply indented, forested Don Valley and Humber River Valley. Post-and-ring locking posts are present throughout the city. There are many bike-only lanes on major roads and threading through various neighbourhoods and parks. The city publishes a cycling map, available on the city website .

Bike Share Toronto provides a public bike system with 1,000 bikes available at 80 stations throughout downtown. Subscriptions start at $5 for 24 hours and allow you to use a bike for 30 minutes or less, as much as you like (usage fees apply for trips longer than 30 minutes). It operates 24 hours a day, all year long (but see the warning below about winter biking). Several businesses also offer bicycle rentals .

It is a provincial law that cyclists under 18 must wear a helmet, and all riders must have a bike with reflectors and a bell. This tends to only be enforced when the police go on their annual "cycling blitz".

Some dangers:

• Beware of parked cars - often accidents are not caused by moving cars, but rather by careless drivers or passengers who unexpectedly open their driver's side door.
• Be cautious of streetcar tracks as bike wheels can be easily caught and cause a spill.
• Although you will certainly see many locals riding the streets year-round, biking in the winter months is enjoyable only with proper equipment and reasonable skills; winter weather is cold, it can be quite windy, and snow removal is often imperfect.

Some recommended cycling routes:

• By far one of the most popular bike paths is the Martin Goodman Trail, the east-west route that hugs Lake Ontario, spanning the city from Etobicoke to the eastern ends of the city. This path is also often used by pedestrians and rollerbladers.
• The Don River trail system begins at the lake (near Queen and Broadview) and travels very far north and east. During or after heavy rains, avoid lower sections of the trails.
• A special treat for bikers of all levels is a tour through Tommy Thompson Park (Leslie St Spit) to the lighthouse and bird sanctuaries (no cars!), which is open on weekends only. Start at Queen and Leslie and head south.
• A visit to Toronto Islands from the ferry docks at the southern end of Bay Street is a great way to spend a bike-friendly, relaxed afternoon by bike. There are no private cars on the Toronto Islands.

By ferry [ edit ]

The trip to the Toronto Islands from the downtown core (Bay St and Queens Quay) is a pleasant 15-minute ferry ride, with frequent summer service and the best views of the Toronto skyline.

There are also guided sailing vessels that take tours of the inner and outer harbours, and circumnavigate Toronto Islands. Ticket booths are found behind Harbourfront Centre in the Harbourfront district.

See [ edit ]

Museums [ edit ].

• Art Gallery of Ontario . The largest art gallery in Canada. It has a great Canadian paintings exhibit and the world's largest collection of Henry Moore sculptures. The European paintings exhibit has a few excellent pieces including Ruben's The Massacre of the Innocents .
• Bata Shoe Museum . This offbeat museum is devoted to shoes and footwear from cultures all over the world.
• Black Creek Pioneer Village is a recreation of life in 19th-century Ontario and consists of over 40 historic buildings, decorated in the style of the 1860s with period furnishings and actors portraying villagers.
• Casa Loma is a step back in time to a period of European elegance and splendour. The museum has decorated suites, secret passages, a 250-m-long tunnel, towers, stables and beautiful 5-acre estate gardens.
• Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art . Dedicated to ceramics in an exquisite contemporary building.
• Hockey Hall of Fame is both a museum and a hall of fame dedicated to the history of ice hockey.
• Ontario Science Centre . This child-friendly museum has several hundred exhibits, many of them hands-on.
• Royal Ontario Museum is a museum of art, world culture and natural history. It is one of the largest museums in North America, and the largest in Canada.
• Spadina House Museum is in a historic mansion dating from the 1860s. The grounds contain a beautiful garden.
• Textile Museum of Canada . Shows drawn from a 13,000-piece collection of textiles from around the world and from other collections.

Landmarks [ edit ]

• CN Tower . At 533 metres tall, the CN Tower is the third tallest free-standing structure in the world, and the tallest in North America.
• Rogers Centre is a large multi-purpose stadium with a retractable roof. It is home to the Toronto Blue Jays of Major League Baseball.
• Toronto City Hall . Two buildings forming a semi-circle overlooking Nathan Phillips Square. Architecturally stunning, and next door to Old City Hall (now a court house) which has a more classical architecture.

Parks [ edit ]

• Toronto Zoo is Canada's premier zoo showcasing over 5,000 animals and 460 species.

Do [ edit ]

Outdoors [ edit ].

• Toronto is " the city within a park ", with miles and miles of parkland following the streams and rivers that flow through the city. Edwards Gardens and the Toronto Botanical Gardens in the neighbourhood of North York might just be the place to start exploring this natural environment.
• The City of Toronto has designated various Discovery Walks which highlight the natural and human history of the region. These can be found with brown circular signs along the route and highlight other regions such as the Belt Line, Garrison Creek and the Humber River as well as the downtown core.
• Beaches . Toronto has three main sections of beach along Lake Ontario. The most popular of these is in the aptly-named Beaches neighbourhood. A less popular alternative is the beaches in the western end of the city in the Parkdale neighbourhood; this was once Toronto's Coney Island, with an amusement park and numerous beach-style attractions; however in the 1950s the city built the Gardiner Expressway along the lakeshore, effectively separating the beaches from the city and causing the demolition of the amusement park; over the years attempts have been made to re-energize this area, but the Gardiner remains a major barrier, as well as a source of noise and pollution to keep away would-be beach-goers. On the plus side, the beaches are largely empty most of the time, providing solitude for those who seek it. The third major beach area in the city runs along the south shore of the Toronto Islands . This area is pleasantly secluded, with most of the islands covered with parkland and a small amusement park. Hanlan's Point Beach on the western shore of the islands is the City of Toronto's only officially recognized clothing optional beach, and a popular gay hangout. Despite these options, many Torontonians prefer to leave the city for beach trips; the most popular beaches are those in the Georgian Bay area north of Toronto, Wasaga Beach in particular is very popular during the summer.

Arts & entertainment [ edit ]

• Comedy . World-renowned Second City comedy/improv theatre has a location in Toronto. See great improv and situation comedy performed live with audience participation over dinner and drinks in the heart of the club district of downtown Toronto.
• Theatre . Toronto has a great theatre scene for every taste and budget. Check out the big theatres on Yonge Street for the big splashy shows. Small theatres in the Annex and elsewhere offer smaller productions that range from original Canadian works, avant-garde, experimental theatre, small budget musicals to British murder mysteries. A variety of theatre festivals such as the New Ideas, Rhubarb and Fringe festivals are the seed for many commercial success such as The Drowsy Chaperone . Also try to check out the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts , the home of the Canadian Opera Company and the National Ballet of Canada . The Toronto Symphony plays in the acoustically renovated Roy Thomson Hall . TO Tix in Yonge-Dundas Square is the best place to get full-price advance and day-of discounts on shows across Toronto. It also offers theatre and dining packages, partnering Toronto’s theatre, dance and opera companies with local downtown restaurants and cultural attractions.

Annual events [ edit ]

• Canadian National Exhibition ( The Ex, CNE ), Exhibition Place . From mid-August to Labour Day . The Ex is an annual fair offering an amusement park (the Midway), a casino, live entertainment, an international market, agricultural exhibits including livestock and a variety of other exhibits. It is Canada's largest fair and the fifth largest in North America, with an average annual attendance of 1.3 million. ( updated Jan 2016 )
• Fan Expo Canda ( Metro Toronto Convention Centre ). Canada's answer to the San Diego and New York Comic-Cons, Fan Expo Canada draws over 150,000 attendees each year to celebrate superheroes, science fiction, fantasy, and other popular franchises. It's the largest such event in Canada and one of the biggest in the world, now taking up both the north and south buildings of the Convention Centre. It usually takes place over four days at the end of August. ( updated Feb 2022 )
• Pride Toronto . Held the last week of June . Pride Toronto is the annual LGBT festival which includes the very popular Pride Parade which draws crowds of straight people to discover how LGBT people have fun. See also LGBT Toronto . ( updated Jan 2016 )
• Toronto Black Film Festival ( TBFF ). Held in February . TBFF showcases the noteworthy black films and provides a forum to debate major cultural, social and socio-economic issues. ( updated Jan 2016 )
• Toronto International Film Festival ( TIFF ). Starts the Thursday night after Labour Day . This publicly attended festival of international film takes place in various theatres and draws many celebrities and celebrity spotters. ( updated Jan 2016 )

Exploring neighbourhoods [ edit ]

Toronto has so many eclectic neighbourhoods that a random walk is fascinating in its own right. You might start in the Downtown area and then try other neighbourhoods around the city. Here are a few suggestions of neighbourhoods to visit. More details and more examples are found in the district articles.

• Distillery District . The former Gooderham & Worts distillery lands have been rejuvenated into a pedestrian-only village dedicated to the arts and entertainment. It has fantastic restaurants, festivals, and art galleries housed in its 19th-century distillery buildings.
• Harbourfront , Toronto's former industrial port, is today largely parkland with biking and walking trails and excellent views of the harbour. Harbourfront Centre is situated right by the lake, and is home to numerous cultural events of which most are free or relatively inexpensive. Take in some of the worlds most critically acclaimed performing arts productions, or enjoy one of the many world festivals that take place every weekend.
• Toronto Islands . A short inexpensive ferry ride from the foot of Bay Street and you leave the bustle of the city behind. Visually, the views of the skyline from the islands are stunning, and for cycling, walking, picnics or just relaxing, the Toronto Islands are hard to beat. There is even a small amusement park for kids, Centreville. On hot summer days, temperatures here will often be about 2-3C lower than the mainland providing relief. By mid-summer the water is warm enough to swim at Hanlan's Point or for the more adventurous, a nude beach is nearby.
• Little Italy is the spot to get a sense of the Western Mediterranean. Sit at one of the many coffee shops and watch the world go by on the weekends. A great time to visit is during the men's FIFA World Cup competition (in football/soccer), regardless of where in the world it is actually being held as local communities face off and rivalries reach a fever pitch. Support can be passionate and even in adjacent communities and it is not unusual to see them draped in a mind-numbing variety of flags once every four years.
• Toronto's Chinatown is a great way to sample a tiny bit of cities like Hong Kong, without spending the airfare. Vast crowds crush the sidewalks as vendors sell authentic Chinese and Vietnamese food, and not-so-authentic knock-offs. It is one of North America's largest Chinatowns, and with many shops aimed at tourists, it is a good place to pick up some unusual and inexpensive souvenirs. The area is also home to a growing number of Korean and Vietnamese shops and restaurants. Toronto's multicultural mosaic never stops evolving. For a complete tour, travel along Spadina (north/south) starting at College Street in the north or Queen Street in the south. However, those looking for good, authentic Chinese food may be disappointed, and most of the restaurants here are tourist traps; these days the best Chinese food can be found in the suburbs of Markham and Richmond Hill .
• Kensington Market was once a centre of Jewish life that has morphed into the centre of Toronto's bohemian scene. Visitors will be assaulted by sounds and smells unlike anywhere else in the city, as narrow streets bustle with immigrants, punks, and yuppies alike. Stores include surplus shops, coffee houses, small restaurants (including vegetarian), clothing vendors, and record stores. Fish and fruit markets are also present in great numbers, and the area is experiencing a boom of South American food stalls of late.
• Koreatown has many Korean retail businesses and restaurants where Korean is as prominent as English in the signage. (There is also another Koreatown in North York .
• Gerrard India Bazaar (Little India) If you want to get a sense of Toronto's vibrant South Asian community, this is where you want to be; not only is Indian culture represented - visible Pakistani and Afghan communities are also alive along the street.
• The 501 Queen streetcar has been recognized in National Geographic magazine for being the longest streetcar route in North America (one of the longest in the world). The journey from one end to the other takes a couple of hours and passes through a wide range of ethnic and cultural neighbourhoods.

Sports teams & arenas [ edit ]

Toronto has several major league and minor league sports teams:

• Toronto Argonauts - Canadian Football League, playing at BMO Field on the Exhibition Place grounds.
• Toronto Blue Jays – Major League Baseball, playing at the Rogers Centre (formerly known as SkyDome, and still generally called such by locals).
• Toronto Maple Leafs – National Hockey League, playing at the Scotiabank Arena (formerly known as Air Canada Centre).
• Toronto Raptors – National Basketball Association, playing at the Scotiabank Arena.
• Toronto Rock – National Lacrosse League, playing at the Scotiabank Arena.
• Toronto Football Club (also known as Toronto FC or TFC) – Major League Soccer, playing at BMO Field.
• Toronto Marlies – American Hockey League (Toronto Maple Leafs farm team), playing at the Coca-Cola Coliseum (formerly the Ricoh Coliseum).
• Toronto FC II – USL League One (Toronto FC reserve team); as of 2019, TFC II plays at TFC's training facility at Downsview Park in North York. League One is actually a third-tier league; TFC II dropped from the second level, now known as the USL Championship, after the 2018 season.
• York9 FC – Another pro soccer team, this one began play in 2019 as a founding member of the new Canadian Premier League. They play home games at York Lions Stadium on the campus of York University in North York, but have long-term plans to build their own stadium in the York Region.
• Toronto Wolfpack – Rugby league team playing in Super League, the top level of England's rugby league pyramid, which also includes 10 teams from England and one from France. The Wolfpack play at Lamport Stadium in the Liberty Village neighbourhood.

The Scotiabank Arena , 40 Bay St. It was called the Air Canada Centre (or "the Hangar") until 2018.

The Rogers Centre , 1 Blue Jays Way. Most often referred to by its original "SkyDome" name.

The Maple Leaf Gardens , 60 Carlton Street. Historic arena in Toronto, on the northwest corner of Carlton Street and Church Street in Toronto's Garden District; now converted into a Loblaws supermarket and an athletic centre for Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University), the Mattamy Athletic Centre at the Gardens.

The Sobey's Stadium (formerly Aviva Centre), 1 Shoreham Drive. A tennis complex that serves mainly as a training facility, but also includes a main stadium court that frequently hosts seasonal concerts. The most notable use of the complex is for the annual Canadian Open (sponsored as the National Bank Open formerly Rogers Cup), a high-profile event on both the men's ATP Tour and women's WTA Tour. The Aviva Centre hosts the ATP event in even-numbered years and the WTA event in odd-numbered years, alternating with Montreal in both cases.

Buy [ edit ]

Toronto has ample opportunities for shopping, and nearly any section of the city has unique places to shop:

• Toronto Eaton Centre – At Yonge-Dundas Square . Over 285 shops and services, including most of North America's most popular brands, and two food courts catering for every taste.
• The 'PATH' System . Linking 1,200 stores and 50 buildings, The PATH is an underground shopping mall has been created for all the commuters to get from Union Station to their offices and back without ever going outside. In a city of Toronto's summer heat and winter cold, this is essential.  
• Mink Mile . If you head west from the corner of Yonge and Bloor, you are in the most upscale of Toronto's shopping districts, easily accessible from the Bloor-Yonge or Bay subway station. Bloor Street between Yonge and Avenue is regarded as Toronto's version of Fifth Avenue, with upscale names such as Hermes and Louis Vuitton, and the flagship Holt Renfrew department store.
• Yorkville . This high-end shopping district just north of Bloor Street and west of Bay Street is home to many designer boutiques. It also has many galleries selling art.
• Kensington Market provides a bohemian shopping experience especially along the southern end of Kensington Avenue. There houses lining both sides of the street have been turned into shops with racks of clothes displayed in the front yard.
• There are many local, neighbourhood shopping districts in the inner city. These are mostly along major thoroughfares lined on one or both sides with shops in low-rise buildings. A few examples are Queen Street West (especially east of Spadina Avenue and extending westward into the West End ), Uptown Yonge north of Eglinton Avenue on Yonge Street, and Roncesvalles Village . There are many more areas with store-lined streets within the inner city but few in suburban districts such as Etobicoke , North York and Scarborough which tend to prefer malls. Consult the district articles .
• Yorkdale Shopping Centre . A shopping centre in the north of the city, accessible from Yorkdale subway station. This is a full-service, upscale mall with hundreds of stores, but which is also rife with packs of roving teenagers who use the facilities as a social scene. Make use of the subway if possible on weekends, as locals pack the parking areas to capacity.  

Money [ edit ]

Changing money at a recognized bank or financial institution is best; there are a few specialized bureaux de change in Toronto's financial district and in Mississauga in the airport terminals. Some hotels, souvenir shops and tourist offices exchange money, but their rates won't put a smile on your dial. Many places in Toronto accept US dollars for small transactions – with a rough 1:1 exchange rate – and it is advised to obtain some Canadian dollars if you will use cash. US coins are often mixed in with Canadian coins at stores since they are similar in appearance.

• Travelex (www.travelex.com/ca) has branches in the Financial District (+1 416-304-6130; First Canadian Place, Bank of Montréal, 100 King St W; M-F 8AM-5PM) and at the airport in Mississauga.
• Calforex Currency Services (290 Queen St West) give good rates for cash, buying and selling GBP, USD, EUR; on substantial sums can be as little as 1% from interbank rates.
• American Express branches in Toronto only function as travel agencies and don't handle financial transactions.
• Cheque-cashing firms such as Money Mart (+1 416-920-4146, multiple locations) can usually exchange US to CAD, but the rates tend to be worse than at other financial institutions.

Eat [ edit ]

Toronto is generally considered to be one of North America's top food cities. It has the same variety as New York or San Francisco and the compact and safe downtown keeps them closer together. As one of the most (if not the most) multicultural cities in the world, Toronto has authentic ethnic cuisine like no other city in North America. It is easy to eat out in Toronto and have a superb meal for cheap.

A few of these cheap (i.e., can be easily procured for less than $20 or, in many instances, $10), iconic dishes are must-try meals for any visitor to Toronto—and represent the diversity that makes this city so special.

Roti [ edit ]

Roti (never plural, and make the effort to pronounce the "T", like "row-tee") is probably the city's most iconic dish. Originating in Trinidad and Guyana, roti is essentially a curry wrapped in a roti shell, i.e., a thin paratha or dhalpuri flatbread. Typical curries found in roti include goat, chicken, lamb, beef, shrimp and a range of veggie options (channa, spinach, pumpkin, cabbage, potato). Occasionally you can find duck and oxtail options, if you're lucky. While the best roti is found in the outer suburbs of Scarborough and Brampton, a handful of shops persist in the city proper, including:

• Pam's (Bloorcourt)
• Ali's West Indian Roti Shop (Parkdale)
• Island Foods (West Queen West)
• Paul's Roti Shop (Cabbagetown)
• Randy's Roti and Doubles (Bloor/Yonge)

A second variety of roti is a true Toronto original, despite the constituent ingredients being from India. Enterprising Indian cooks in the city saw the popularity of the Caribbean/West Indian-style wrap and adapted it to their own curries; the East Indian variety is now much more easily found than the West Indian original, but it must be said the quality ranges from divine to barely tolerable. Classic choices include butter chicken, matar paneer, channa and lamb korma. Your best bets for consistently excellent Indian roti:

• Roti Mahal (Queen West)
• Matha Roti (Harbord Village)
• Mother India Roti (Parkdale)

Jerk chicken [ edit ]

Toronto's home to one of the largest Jamaican populations outside of Jamaica, and with that comes a dazzling array of incredible jerk chicken options in nearly every corner of the city. This spicy-sweet-savoury chicken is usually served with rice and peas (kidney beans) and coleslaw; ask for extra oxtail gravy for the true taste. Meals can be had for $10–15, often with lunch specials. Little Jamaica, along Eglinton Ave., has about a dozen or so exceptional options; some classics closer to the core of the city include:

• The Real Jerk (Gerrard East—they filmed the music video for Rihanna's "Work" ft. Drake here!)
• Allwyn's (Queen West)
• Fahmee Bakery (Little Portugal)
• Chubby's (King West—a more expensive but supremely delicious version)
• Tasty's (Chinatown)
• Jerk King (numerous locations including Chinatown, the Annex and Bloor/Dufferin)
• Mr. Jerk (Cabbagetown)
• Diner's Corner (Yonge/Wellesly)
• Albert's (St. Clair)

Patties (or "Jamaican patties" or "beef patties") [ edit ]

Patties are a flaky-crust pastry usually filled with seasoned ground beef and can be purchased from Jamaican restaurants, convenience stores, and even a couple subway stations. Vegetable and chicken versions can be found with a little effort as well; for a huge range of fillings (shrimp curry, callaloo, goat, ackee and saltfish), head to Golden Patty in Kensington Market.

Doubles [ edit ]

Doubles are the "little snack that fill you up big"—curried chickpeas in a fried, doughy flatbread, often with some tamarind sauce and hot sauce thrown in for good measure. Originating in Trinidad and Tobago, these can be found pretty much wherever you can find Caribbean roti, and typically will cost you under $5. Randy's and Ali's make particularly great doubles.

Italian veal sandwiches [ edit ]

Bring your appetite for these massive sandwiches. A Toronto Italian classic, veal sandwiches usually feature two or three breaded veal cutlets in tomato sauce with cheese, onions and peppers, all served on an Italian roll. Most veal sandwich shops also offer chicken cutlets and eggplant options as well for those looking for something somewhat lighter. More easily found around the West End than anywhere else in town, put yourself in a food coma at one of these shops:

• California Sandwiches (Little Italy)
• Bitondo's (Little Italy)
• San Francesco Foods (Little Italy)
• Tony and Nick's (Little Portugal)
• Papamio (Annex/Seaton Village)
• Uno Mustachio (St. Lawrence Market)

Portuguese tarts [ edit ]

Toronto has one of the largest Portuguese populations of any city outside of Portugal or Brazil, which means you can find excellent pasteis de nata—flaky custard tarts—at bakeries all over the city. While gentrification of the traditionally Portuguese areas of Toronto's West End has resulted in the closures of many iconic bakeries since the 2010s, options still abound. Many bakeries will put their own spins on the tarts, with chocolate and nutella being popular options. Check out these bakeries for quality pasteis:

• Nova Era (multiple locations, including Dundas, St. Clair and Dupont)
• Golden Wheat (Little Italy)
• Caldense (Little Portugal)
• Brockton Village Bakery (Little Portugal)
• Bom Dia (Parkdale)
• Progress Bakery (Dovercourt Village)

Street meat [ edit ]

Like any proper North American city, Toronto has a distinct regional spin on the hot dog, albeit one that is much less fussy than you would find in Montreal, Chicago, Tucson or Detroit. "Street meat" carts are found all over downtown, with many options clustered along Front Street near the Rogers Centre as well as near Nathan Phillips Square. Most carts will offer four sausage options: hot dog, Italian sausage, Polish sausage and veggie; hot dogs will run you ~$4, with sausages going for a dollar or so more. You dress the dogs yourself, with common toppings including ketchup, mustard, relish, onions, sauerkraut, pickles, banana peppers and bacon bits. There's no agreed-upon "standard" set of toppings; just do what feels right!

Farmer's markets [ edit ]

Surrounded by the extensive fertile farmlands of Southern Ontario, Toronto has an abundance of farmer's markets - one is happening, in season, almost every day. Several markets are year round, while others are seasonal, generally running from May to October.

• St. Lawrence Market . Has been bringing the freshest foods into the city for Torontonians and visitors alike since 1901. Located at Jarvis and Front, the St. Lawrence Market stretches over 2 buildings, a main building on the south side of Front St., and a temporary building to the south of the main building. The temporary building is home to a Farmer's Market, open Saturdays year round. It features fresh vegetables in season, preserves, spices and herbs, and direct from the source foods, such as honey direct from the beekeeper or maple syrup from the people who tapped and boiled it, and quality Ontario wines. The larger main building has over 50 specialty vendors, with a large seafood section, a dozen butchers, several bakeries, and three very extensive cheese shops. In the basement, there is also a specialty area for handcrafters, and an extensive foodcourt, with merchants often cooking food that they bought fresh that morning from upstairs. The main building is open year round, Tu-Th 8AM-6PM, F 8AM-7PM, Sa 5AM-5PM.  
• Riverdale Farm , 201 Winchester St ( three blocks east of Parliament Street ). A year-round producing farm owned by the City of Toronto as part of its extensive park system, open daily for tours, education, and more 9AM-5PM. The Friends of Riverdale Farm operate an onsite store and restaurant, Shop at the Farm and Farm Kitchen, in Simpson House (daily 10AM-4PM), and a weekly Farmer's Market (Tuesdays, May 10 - Oct, 3:30PM-7PM. Riverdale farm is a working farm, with barns and outdoor paddocks, and animals of all types. In an attempt to provide education about farming, the staff is approachable, and will discuss chores as they go through the daily tasks of keeping a farm running. Tours are available, or you can wander the 7½ acres freely.  
• City Hall , Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen Street West. Wednesdays, 1 June-5 October, 10AM-2:30PM (except June 29 due to Jazz Festival).
• East York Civic Centre , 850 Coxwell Ave . Tuesdays, 24 May-25 October, 9AM-2PM .  
• Etobicoke Civic Centre , 399 The West Mall. Saturdays, June 4-29 October, 8AM-2PM.
• North York Civic Centre , Mel Lastman Square, 5100 Yonge St. Thursdays, 16 June-20 October, 8AM-2PM.
• Scarborough Civic Centre , Albert Campbell Square, 150 Borough Drive. Fridays, 3 June-14 October noon-5PM.
• The Dufferin Grove Farmer's Market , 875 Dufferin St ( across from the Dufferin Mall ). Thursdays, year round (outdoors around the rinkhouse in summer and in the rinkhouse in winter) 3:30-7PM.  
• Green Barn Market , 601 Christie St. Saturdays 8AM–12:30PM (within the restored Artscape Wychwood Barns).

Interesting food districts [ edit ]

• Kensington Market is a historic market near Chinatown with food and drink options of all kinds. These days, Latin food (especially Mexican tacos and South American empanadas) is particularly well represented, but Caribbean, Italian, Middle Eastern and Canadian food are all found in abundance, along with coffee shops, bars, food stores and vintage stores.
• Cabbagetown is a designated Historic District in the eastern half of the downtown core.
• University District : small section of Baldwin Street ( east of Spadina, north of Dundas ) has many small outdoor cafes ideal for summer lunches.
• Chinese food can naturally be found in Chinatown, but these days many ethnic Chinese residents will tell you that the suburbs of Markham and Richmond Hill , not Chinatown, have the best Chinese food in the Toronto area. Other areas with a good selection of Chinese food include the suburbs of Scarborough and North York , as well as the neighbourhood of East Chinatown, about 4 km east of the original Chinatown.
• Chinatown also has many Vietnamese and Thai restaurants.
• Hakka Food in Toronto refers a style of Chinese food that originated in India with the migrant Chinese of Kolkata. Also known as India-Style Chinese food, outside of India and certain Southeast Asian countries, Toronto is the only city in the world to have such a variety of Hakka restaurants.
• Little Jamaica along Eglinton is home to countless jerk chicken restaurants as well as options for beef patties, ital (vegan) food and more.
• Little India along Gerrard Street East features a wide range of Indian and Pakistani cuisine with plenty of options for vegetarian diners.
• Koreatown along Bloor West between Bathurst and Christie Pits has dozens of Korean restaurants at every price point, as well as Korean karaoke bars and an incredible Korean grocery store, the P.A.T. (don't skip the fish waffles!).
• Little Tibet in Parkdale is home to 20+ Tibetan restaurants, one of the largest such communities outside of Tibet. Wherever you go, try the momos (dumplings with hot sauce)!
• Greektown along the Danforth features plenty of places for souvlaki, meze, gyros and glorious dips of all kinds.
• Little Portugal along Dundas West has gentrified considerably but there are a few remaining bakeries with pasteis de nata (custard tarts), bifana (pork sandwiches) and the like.
• King Street between University Avenue and Spadina Avenue has many restaurants appealing to theatre goers.
• Queen Street East between Empire and Leslie has a number of casual, trendy restaurants that match the vibe of Leslieville.
• College Street to the west of Bathurst has a cheaper set of eclectic restaurants popular with university students from nearby University of Toronto.
• Bayview Avenue south of Eglinton is the location of some of Toronto's best French pastry shops.
• Bloor Street to the west of Spadina in the Annex has a similar set of restaurants to College St, with a particularly heavy concentration of budget-friendly Korean and Japanese restaurants. Most restaurants tend to be very laid back.
• Yorkville : it's more about being seen than actually eating but there are a few hidden gems, and this area is famous for sightseeing celebrities. Restaurants often charge a premium for otherwise mediocre meals.
• The city's largest newspaper, the Toronto Star , once chose the Downsview Park Flea Market food court as the best in the city. Although it is open only on weekends and rather remote, it offers a variety of authentic food from Afghan to Trinidadian and lacks the chain restaurants that dominate the city's food courts. It is north of downtown, but is accessible from the Downsview subway station on the Spadina line and shares space with over 400 independent retailers.

Cafés [ edit ]

• Aroma Espresso Bar . This cafe chain has locations throughout the city. Aroma might be the best of the large coffee chains for espresso coffees and rivals the quality at many independent coffee shops. The coffee is served in a cup and saucer with a metal spoon (you might not get the spoon at some other places), and you get a piece of chocolate (a nice touch). ( updated Nov 2015 )
• Balzac's . Balzac's is a small chain of cafes in interesting neighbourhoods. It serves only organic, Fair Trade coffee, cocoa and sugar, and its milk is locally sourced and organic. ( updated Jan 2017 )

Vegetarian [ edit ]

Some districts with vegetarian restaurants are Kensington-Chinatown , The Annex , and Chinatown East .

Drink [ edit ]

Historically, the majority of nightlife in Toronto has been centred on the appropriately named Clubland and in the fashion district on Queen Street West. Nearly everywhere is packed to the brim with pubs and bars, but none so much as Adelaide and Queen Street in those districts. Clubs tend to operate on Richmond and Adelaide streets (both run east-west, 1 block apart); names change frequently, but the district keeps on going. John Street between Adelaide and Richmond is always a hub of activity, especially after Blue Jays games, and is a convenient spot for those staying downtown. Two other clubs of note outside this district: The (long-lasting) Phoenix (on Sherbourne) and Rebel (literally operating on part of Toronto's commercial port, but this place has an outstanding view of the city on warm summer nights, and boasts an extensive entertainment complex).

Some of Toronto's newest and hottest nightclubs have opened up in the King Street West/Liberty Village area. This area tends to attract a more mature (25+ years old) crowd; however this comes at a cost as drinks and admission into the venues are typically a bit more expensive here than in Clubland .

Hip art and music oriented crowds tend to gravitate towards Parkdale (Queen West past Bellwoods Park). The hipsters hangout in the wide array of bars, galleries and clubs that dot the area, including the Rhino, Happy Wine Bar, Tammy's, Motel, Pharmacy Bar, Danu, Food & Liquor, the Grand Trunk and the Drake and its poor cousin Gladstone Hotels. The same folks also frequent the Annex, Dundas West and Kensington Market areas of the city at night for club nights, casual drinks and art and music events. One of the main "corsos" of the city is Little Italy : College Street, between Bathurst and Ossington flows over with music, sidewalk cafes and excellent food and a crowd that enjoys the summer heat and the offerings. College Street, east of Bathurst, is home to many student hangouts, including Sneaky Dee's which is famous among locals for its nachos. The legal minimum drinking age is 19.

More recently, Dundas West has emerged as the preferred stretch of bars and restaurants catering to the taste-making proclivities of West Enders. From Bathurst until Dundas hits Roncesvalles, you will come across all kinds of bars at all kinds of price points: high-end cocktail bars (the aptly named Cocktail Bar, Rhum Bar, Northern Belle, Bluebird), dive-ish bars (Wasted Youth, Lucky Shrike, Hank's Liquor, Swan Dive), wine bars (Tommy's, Milou, Grapewitches, Midfield), cozy date spots (Communist's Daughter, Bathurst Local, Black Dice, Archive, Loveless), live music venues (the Garrison, Lula Lounge, the Dakota); you name it, you can find it.

Ossington between Dundas and Queen has cemented its status as a nightlife hotspot with more than a dozen bars, packed sidewalks and bustling restaurants. While there are certainly a few trend-chasing spots catering to 905ers and basic Millennials, there are some real gems along this stretch, including Sweaty Betty's, Reposado, Bellwoods Brewery and Painted Lady.

Bloor Street West from Christie Pits Park until Lansdowne is also home to a great stretch of bars, including Civil Liberties, Paradise Grapevine, Hurricane's, Grey Tiger, Burdock Brewing, Three Speed, Bar Neon and many, many more. These cater more to the millennial crowd than some of the younger-oriented bars further south but are where you'll find a more authentic expression of what 2020s Toronto is all about.

Toronto has over a dozen microbreweries . One popular microbrewery is Steam Whistle Brewing (south of the CN Tower in the Entertainment District ) which offers tours of its brewery in a former locomotive roundhouse. Unlike Steam Whistle, most microbreweries in Toronto are brewpubs serving in-house brews with pub fare. About half of the brewpubs are in the West End district. Other districts having a brewpub are Harbourfront (Amsterdam BrewHouse), Distillery District (Mill St. Brew Pub), Midtown (Granite Brewery) and East End (Left Field Brewery).

As of 2023, craft breweries have consolidated in two general areas: the East End, mostly along Queen East (Eastbound, Radical Road, Avling, Rorschach, Saulter Street, Black Lab) and Gerrard (Left Field, Godspeed); and the West End, particularly near Bloordale/Junction (Steadfast, Henderson, Halo, Indie Ale House, Junction Craft, Burdock, Bandit, Woodhouse, High Park). A few other neighbourhood breweries worth exploring include Bellwoods Brewery (Ossington, near Trinity-Bellwoods), Blood Brothers (Geary Ave.), Kensington Brewing (Kensington Market) and Mascot (Downtown core). For an exceptional beer bar, visit either Bar Volo (near Bloor/Yonge) or its sister shop, Birreria Volo (College near Bathurst).

Toronto has long been a beer and whiskey town, and while it lacks a drinking identity like that of Philadelphia or Boston, asking a bartender for a blackbird shot (Montenegro and Wild Turkey) will endear to you many. Some bars will offer a shot of Jameson + bottle of beer for $10 or so; Wasted Youth and Lucky Shrike on Dundas being two such examples.

Sleep [ edit ]

Most hotels and hostels are situated directly outside the downtown core. Prices for rooms generally range from $150 for a standard hotel, $60–80 for a motel, and $20–40 for a bed in a hostel.

Hotels [ edit ]

Toronto has a wide variety of hotels that can suit every budget. Many are located in the Entertainment and Financial Districts and Yonge-Dundas areas.

Hostels [ edit ]

Toronto has several youth hostels, including ones in the downtown area, such as HI-Toronto Hostel at the foot of Church Street.

Bed & Breakfast [ edit ]

Another popular alternative for over nighters are bed & breakfasts, of which Toronto has hundreds, many of them in the downtown core. Prices range from $60 to several hundred dollars depending on the house and amenities offered.

Learn [ edit ]

International students often prefer to study in Toronto because of its safety, proximity to other tourist destinations, and favourable exchange rates and visa policies. However, despite its status as the largest city in the country and Canada's economic centre, it is surprisingly under-served by universities. This lack of post-secondary education has led to the development of major universities in the mid-sized cities that surround Toronto: the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo , the University of Guelph in Guelph , McMaster University in Hamilton , Brock University in St. Catharines and Trent University in Peterborough . The universities in Toronto remain some of the best in the country:

• The University of Toronto . Canada's largest university, is spread out all over the city (including the main downtown campus, an east-end Scarborough campus, and University of Toronto at Mississauga (UTM) in the neighbouring city of Mississauga ). This university is consistently rated among the top three in the country and is part of the "Canadian Ivy League." Due to its size, the University of Toronto's downtown campus, known as the St George campus, after the street that runs through it, has its own "sphere of influence," turning the surrounding neighbourhoods into miniature college towns, with plenty of bars, restaurants, bookshops, grocery stores and cheap take-out joints. Click the link for a guide to the U of T campus.
• York University . The third largest university in Canada, York University has two campuses - the Keele Campus near Keele Street and Steeles Avenue West at the northern border of the city, and the original Glendon College at Lawrence Avenue East and Bayview Avenue. York University station on subway Line 1 Yonge–University is within the Keele campus. Buses 124 and 162 connect Lawrence Station (also on Line 1 Yonge–University) to Glendon College.
• Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU – formerly Ryerson University). In the heart of the downtown core. It was once a polytechnic, but is now Toronto's third university. The university is particularly well known for its school of management, and for its journalism program. Its campus is centred on the Kerr Hall, which forms a square around a central quad, it fills the block bounded by Gould, Gerrard, Victoria and Church streets. TMU also has buildings throughout this section of the city, including the Ted Rogers School of Management, at Bay and Dundas streets.
• OCAD University . The university focuses exclusively on art and design. The campus is on Dundas Street West near Spadina.
• Seneca College . Canada's largest college is spread out over the city with over 16 campuses of varying sizes.
• George Brown College . Three campuses: St. James (downtown), Casa Loma (midtown) and Waterfront (Harbourfront).
• Humber College . Two campuses: Lakeshore and North.

Toronto, like other Canadian cities, also has dozens of English as a Second Language (ESL) schools. The largest association of private English and French language schools is the Canadian Association of Private Language Schools .

Connect [ edit ]

For life-threatening emergencies or crime in progress, dial 9-1-1 on any landline, mobile or pay phone (toll-free).

Local calls at pay phones cost 50 cents. Toronto's local calling area extends roughly from Oakville to Ajax ; Oshawa , Hamilton and their adjacent suburbs are long-distance. Local calls are not metered, so you can talk as long as you want. Due to the popularity of cellphones, there are fewer pay phone booths than in previous years, so they can be difficult to locate. Most large public facilities still have ample pay phones to use. In malls, pay phones are usually between the inner and outer doors at the entrances. Payphones are also routinely provided in TTC subway stations, including on the platforms, as a safety feature. Cellular service is generally unavailable in the subway, except in outdoor or above-ground areas. In other underground areas, such as the lower levels of malls and in the PATH, reception is generally available, if somewhat weaker.

In addition, many public facilities (such as shopping malls) now also have phones which provide free local calls, which are funded by advertisements run on colour LCD screens. Watch for large, wall-mounted ovals in high-traffic areas.

Toronto has three area codes: 416, 647, and 437. These area codes are all associated with the same geographic area. The suburban areas outside of the city have three overlapping area codes: 905, 289, and 365. As a result, Toronto has 10-digit local dialling . You must always dial the area code as part of the number you are trying to reach.

International calling cards are widely available to many countries for reasonable rates. As coin-paid long distance calls are overpriced (Bell payphones charge nearly $5 in the first minute and a lower rate thereafter, competitors are $1 for three minutes), if you must place toll calls from telephone booths, it's best to buy prepaid cards.

Internet [ edit ]

Most coffee shops, chain restaurants, shopping centres and public buildings provide free Wi-Fi. Major attractions such as the Art Gallery of Ontario, Royal Ontario Museum, the Scotiabank Arena and Rogers Centre provide free Wi-Fi to guests.

Wi-Fi and free internet access is available on computers at Toronto Public Library branches. Computer access requires a library card, but the library offers a card for in-library services for non-residents without an annual fee.

All TTC subway stations have free Wi-Fi; the ad-based service uses network name TCONNECT. See the TTC wi-fi webpage for more details. Union Station provides

Mail [ edit ]

Generally stamps are purchased and parcels are weighed and shipped at a postal outlet in a retail store such as a variety store or a drug store such as Shoppers Drug Mart. Postal outlets may sell philatelic items (recent issues only).

Newspapers [ edit ]

• The Toronto Star , a broadsheet daily newspaper, politically left of centre, covering local, national, and world news. Superman co-creator Joe Shuster, who once delivered this paper, used the Old Toronto Star Building (no longer extant) as inspiration for "The Daily Planet" newspaper.
• The Toronto Sun , a tabloid daily newspaper, politically conservative, covering local, national, and world news.
• The Globe and Mail , a broadsheet national daily with local edition, published in Toronto. Extensive business and stock market coverage, politically centrist.
• The National Post , a broadsheet national daily, moderately conservative.

Depending on where you go in Toronto, you will be able to find locally printed newspapers in a variety of languages. For example, in Chinatown, you will find Chinese newspapers. In "Little Italy", you'll find Italian newspapers. You'll also find newspapers in French, Spanish, Portuguese, Persian, Arabic, Tagalog, Greek, Urdu and more.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Crime [ edit ].

Toronto is remarkably safe and the streets are vibrant with pedestrians and bicyclists, even at night in most neighbourhoods. If you use common sense, you should have no trouble at all.

The overall violent crime rate in Canada, and particularly in Toronto, is much lower than that found in major cities in the United States. Petty crime is generally not a problem in Toronto, but as always is the case, keep vigilant with your possessions. Car and bike theft are comparable to other large North American cities.

There are neighbourhoods which are known in the media and on the street as being more dangerous, though police statistics are not commonly used to justify these beliefs. Nevertheless, while assaults and other crimes can happen anywhere, especially late at night when few people are around, it is reasonable to avoid certain areas (again, generally late at night). These areas include in the old city and inner bouroughs: Crescent Town, Regent Park, parts of Parkdale, parts of St. Jamestown, Moss Park, Alexandra Park, Flemingdon Park/Victoria Village and Weston-Mount Dennis. Outer areas: Jane and Finch ("Jane Corridor"), Lawrence Heights, the Peanut (i.e., Don Mills and Sheppard), Rexdale/Jamestown Crescent, Malvern, Kingston and Galloway, Steeles-The Amoureaux, Dorset Park, Westminster-Branson and Eglinton East-Kennedy Park. Stay away from dodgy looking areas, where drugs, prostitution and violent crime such as armed robberies can occur. These neighbourhoods become noticeably worse from a visual standpoint, giving ample warning to turn around.

Homeless [ edit ]

Toronto has a visible homeless population, many of whom will ask you for money. Beggars in Toronto have been known to ask for handouts on the pretext that they need TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) fare. When offered TTC tokens, they will accept them and then approach other passers-by in an attempt to resell these tokens for cash. If a street person offers to sell you a token they claim to have "found" in Toronto, sometimes at less than face value, odds are this fare media was given to them by some well-meaning passer-by who believed their false claim that they needed a TTC fare to get home.

There have also been instances in the past with "squeegee kids" who would jump into intersections when traffic is stopped at lights and solicit money for cleaning windshields. This is becoming less common as this form of interference with vehicle traffic is expressly illegal under Ontario's Highway Traffic Act and may be reported to police.

Pedestrians [ edit ]

Be careful when getting off the streetcars and always look to your right before leaving the car. Although vehicles are supposed to stop when the streetcar doors open, some motorists and cyclists will ignore this and keep going.

The proliferation of mobile phones has led to "multitasking" in a large percentage of the pedestrian population of this city. If driving, cycling, or even walking, in Toronto do not forget to keep an eye open for a pedestrian who may be more focused on his or her device.

Weather [ edit ]

Avoid river/creek banks or bridge underpasses during periods of excessive rain, during/after heavy thundershowers or melting snow. Flooding can soften soil and cause it to suddenly collapse into the water under any weight.

Occasionally, Toronto will be hit with a severe winter storm accompanied by significant snowfall (quite often mixed with freezing rain/ice/sleet). Avoid driving during and immediately after the storms if at all possible. This is especially true for those unfamiliar with winter driving and controlling a car in a skid. Take public transit, walk, or stay inside.

Cope [ edit ]

The Office of International Relations and Protocol manages the Government of Ontario’s interaction with the largest consular corps in Canada (and one of the largest in the world). Approximately  100 countries are represented in Toronto.

Consulates [ edit ]

Go next [ edit ].

Toronto is a great starting point for exploring southern Ontario . There are many golden sand beaches along the clean fresh waters of the Great Lakes that are ideal for hot summer days. Popular beach destinations within 1½-2½ hours of Toronto include Wasaga, Sauble Beach , Sandbanks, Grand Bend, Long Point, and Turkey Point.

Golden Horseshoe [ edit ]

• Niagara Region — A lush region known primarily for its orchards and vineyards as well as the thundering waterfalls at Niagara Falls and the beautiful town of Niagara-on-the-Lake . On the American side of the Falls are several outlet malls. 1-1½ hours south along the QEW; a few tour buses make the same-day return trip. It is one of the principal Wine Regions of Ontario , and several companies do wine-tasting tours by bus from Toronto, starting at $125 (tax included), such as Niagara Vintage Wine Tours and Niagara Airbus .
• Main Street Unionville , in the suburban city of Markham north of Toronto, is a historic village developed in the 1840s. As typical of a small village, it has many quaint period buildings in an idyllic surrounding.
• Waterloo Region — This area 1-1½ hours west of Toronto has large university campuses, rolling farm hills and Mennonite culture.
• The Niagara Escarpment — A world biosphere, protected by UN mandate running from the Niagara Falls west to Hamilton then northward to Georgian Bay. It is covered by forest with high cliff views along the Bruce Trail bordering the western edge of the Greater Toronto Area, at its closest point it is about a ½-hour drive from the western end of Toronto.
• Newmarket has its attractive Main Street Heritage Conservation District and many heritage buildings within a walkable area.
• Canada's Wonderland is a popular, seasonal theme park operated by Cedar Fair in Vaughan . It is a 20-minute drive away without traffic, and there are buses from downtown in the summer.

Ontario [ edit ]

• Muskoka , Georgian Triangle and The Kawarthas — All 1½–2 hours north are cottage country areas with more rocky and hilly terrain speckled with hundreds of lakes and waterways. Muskoka and the Kawarthas are known for their country inns, cottages, spas/resorts, provincial parks, and a wealth of outdoor activities including camping, fishing/hunting, snowmobiling, nature viewing, and hiking set among natural beauty. The Georgian Bay area is where the hilly terrain and cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment meet its shores, the area has renowned ski facilities frequently blasted with high snowfall amounts but beaches Wasaga Beach , wineries and golfing are the choices in summer.
• Stratford — This cute town 2 hours west of Toronto is host to the world-renowned Stratford Shakespeare Festival (April–November).
• Thousand Islands and Kingston — This scenic area and its nearby historic city are 3 hours east, on the way to Ottawa
• Ottawa — The Canadian capital is about a 4½-hour drive from Toronto.
• Windsor , London , and Sarnia are at the southwestern corner of Ontario, and the southernmost point of Canada. It is a 3-hour drive.

United States [ edit ]

• Buffalo — Gorgeous early 20th-century architecture including some Frank Lloyd Wright work and excellent museums are a 1½-hour drive from Toronto.
• Across the Detroit River from Windsor is Detroit , offering Motown music, automobile museums, historic buildings, museums, and theatres. It is 4 hours away.
• The city that never sleeps, New York City , is only 8-10 hours away without traffic, via I-90 and I-87. You can also take Amtrak or a 2-hour flight there.
• Also an 8- to 9-hour drive away, Chicago is home to blues music, Millennium Park, windy weather, and deep-dish pizza.
• If you are into history and want to see the capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. , you have to drive 8-10 hours.

Elsewhere in Canada [ edit ]

• Montreal is a 6- to 7-hour drive to the east, or a 4½-hour train ride. Bilingual Montreal is home to French-Canadian culture, nice architecture, and the Laurentians are not far away.
• You can hop onto a VIA rail train to many parts of Canada, including Winnipeg , Edmonton , and Vancouver .

• Has custom banner
• Huge city articles
• Huge cities with more than 10 districts
• Has mapframe
• Maps with non-default alignment
• Maps with non-default size
• Has map markers
• Airport listing
• Go listing with no coordinates
• Articles with dead external links
• Do listing with no coordinates
• Buy listing with no coordinates
• Eat listing with no coordinates
• Has routebox
• Has Geo parameter
• Greater Toronto Area
• All destination articles
• Usable cities
• Usable articles
• City articles
• Cities with categories
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

Visit A City is having some trouble loading.

Please try again in a couple of minutes or send us an email to [email protected] .

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

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

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

Related Articles

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Toronto Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 30, 2023

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

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

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

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:

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 Toronto: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

How to Road Trip the Yukon on a Budget

How to See Alberta: A 10-Day Suggested Driving Itinerary

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Toronto Visitor Guide 2024: Everything you need to know

Toronto may not be Canada's legal capital — that honor goes to Ottawa — but in many ways, the biggest city in Ontario is the cultural and financial center of the country. The biggest city in Canada, Toronto's population of over five million makes it home to a significant percentage of Canadians. Located on the shores of Lake Ontario close to the border with the United States, Toronto is known as the Center of the Universe to Canadians, both affectionately and disparagingly.

Toronto is also a city that keeps on growing. As the biggest city in a country known for its large immigrant population, Toronto is often considered the most cosmopolitan city on earth. Something like 180 different languages are spoken in the city, and Toronto's diverse neighborhoods reflect this mosaic of cultures. Wherever you're from, Toronto can feel strangely like home. And yet, there's also something quintessentially Canadian about this modern metropolis.

A weekend in Toronto

Love discounts and traveling?

Sign up for our newsletter and get 10% off your next booking.

12 Best Things to do in Toronto

This dynamic Canadian city sits on the banks of Lake Ontario. It is a city surrounded by wild country and filled with green spaces. The towering skyscrapers and modern downtown area are cram-packed with delightful eateries, making this a city with plenty to offer to the curious traveler.

To get the most enjoyment from your visit you will first need to store any large bags so that you are traveling light. Here Bounce luggage storage services can be of assistance. They have teamed up with local partners to ensure that luggage storage is both cheap and convenient.

Best Toronto tours for wine enthusiasts – New World Wine Tours

Once, New World wines were looked down upon by wine connoisseurs, but they have now carved a place for themselves in any wine buff's collection. Here is a company that is proud to show off the region’s cold climate wines and terroir-driven wine estates. To experience that farm–to–table experience, they offer the services of their experts so that you get to taste some of the best wines in the region.

Call 1 647 794 0101 or email to discuss a tour at [email protected]

Best Toronto tours by Segway – Go Tours Canada

Here is a company that quickly saw the potential of showing off the delights of Toronto from the comfortable and fun vehicle, the Segway. Don’t worry if you have never ridden one before. They have trained more than 100 000 Segway riders. Combined with their knowledge of, and passion for, Toronto you can be assured of a great adventure that will be both informative and enjoyable. 

Email them at [email protected] or call them on 1 416 642 0008

Best walking tours of Toronto – Buzz Tours

Sometimes, the best way to get to know a place is through the tried and trusted method of walking. Here is a company that offers a unique walking tour experience so that you can benefit from the in-depth knowledge of their local guides. They won't only show you Toronto. They will reveal some of its hidden secrets, its out-of-the-way coffee shops, and its most dynamic shopping areas in a way that only a local can. They want your experience to be a memorable one, so they restrict their tours to small groups.

To book a tour, call 1 647 986 2899 or email them at [email protected]

Best Toronto tours by boat – Toronto Harbour Tours

Leaving from picturesque Pier 6 of Toronto’s waterfront, this company offers a unique way to take in some of the most stunning views of the city skyline. Their boats have been plying the waters for more than twenty-five years, and they can provide both narrated sightseeing tours or private charters. Discover the Queen's Quay Terminal, the Harbourfront Center, and the Ontario Islands in a way that you would never be able to experience them from the land.

Find out about all the tour options on offer by calling 1 416 203 7786 or email at [email protected]

Best Toronto tours for foodies – Eating Through T.O.

This is a company that knows a thing or two about where to find the best bites in town. They offer a range of tours themed around different types of food so that you can opt for one that most suits your taste buds. Whether it is dumplings or pastries, chocolate or pizza, these guys will be able to show you some of the best that Toronto has to offer and throw in a few surprises at the same time.

To discuss a tour, call 1 647 794 0101 or email for more info at [email protected]

Best day tours from Toronto – Toronto Eco Adventures

This is a company that is keen to show off some of the great outdoors that surrounds Toronto and which Ontario is so famed for. In a relaxed and comfortable way, you get whisked away from the city and exposed to a whole different world. Here nature and geography dominate, and all you need to do is to take it all in and maybe try to capture some of those memories on camera. Whether you fancy hiking in Algonquin National Park, swimming and canoeing at Bon Echo, or exploring Killarney and French River, there will be a tour that suits you. 

Call 1 647 409 7400 or email at [email protected]

Best multi-day tours from Toronto – Lake Fever Wilderness Company

This company can get you out into the great outdoors to do some camping, even if you don't have any gear. Not many companies offer you the opportunity to hike in the woods, dip in the lake, and then sit around a campfire while you discuss the day's adventures with your fellow travelers. You don't even need to worry about bringing your own tent or sleeping bag.

Call to arrange the adventure most suitable for you. 1 647 859 9726 or email [email protected]

Best winter tours from Toronto – Travelling Chicken

For some, the idea of venturing into Ontario during the winter might seem a little daunting. Here is a company with a different view and the ability to make it happen for you. From skiing to dog sledding, skating to snow tubing, these guys don't believe that outdoor adventure should be restricted to the summer months. Let them show you how to make the most of the cold weather, but if you happen to be in Toronto in summer, they have plenty of other adventures on offer too.

Find out more by emailing at [email protected] or call 1 647 625 9033

Best layover tours of Toronto – Wine Region Rentals

Why should your layover be a dull affair confined to walking in circles around the airport terminal? This company will pick you up, show you Toronto and still get you back in time to catch your connecting flight. Discover the Distillery district, the HarbourFront, and snap a few shots at the CN Tower, or design a tour to suit yourself. This company are happy to discuss the options with you. If you fancy stopping off for a drink somewhere along the way, that too can be arranged.

Call 1 416 358 0932 or email at [email protected]

Best way to see Niagara Falls – Zoom Tours Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of those must-do adventures that feature high on many people's bucket lists. This natural wonder is just too iconic and breathtaking to miss, and this company has the expertise to make your visit a memorable one. Whether you want a boat cruise, an evening tour, or a private tour to your own specifications, Zoom tours can make it happen for you in a convenient and hassle-free manner.

Call 1 416 276 9127 or email at [email protected]

Best way to tour Toronto by Bike – Toronto Bicycle Tours

Connecting with this city by bike couldn’t be easier. You won’t need to be super fit and you won’t be fighting with heavy traffic. Most of the tours are on paths or dedicated bike lanes. Their guides will introduce you to aspects of Toronto that will help you see the city in a totally different light, even if you are a local. Whether you opt for a downtown tour, an island tour, or prefer to put together something just for your friends and family, Toronto Bicycle Tours have the kit and expertise to make it happen. 

Email them at [email protected] or call them on 1 416 477 2184

Best ghost tours of Toronto – Haunted Tours of Toronto

If you have the fortitude for it, then spending seventy-five minutes delving into Toronto’s dark past might be the thing for you. Whether you want to immerse yourself into the haunted past of Canada’s oldest university, wind your way through the spine-chilling side of the Distillery District, or explore ancient graveyards and hanging sites of the city, this company’s guides will ensure that you never see Toronto in quite the same way again.  If you are of a nervous disposition, then think very carefully before booking your tour. But those who love a spooky thrill will have a great time. 

Call 1 416 238 1473 or email them at [email protected]

As any Torontonian will tell you, you could spend a lifetime in this Canadian city and still never see it all. But if you only have a weekend, you can still get a glimpse into what makes the city so special. 

• See the Toronto skyline from above with a trip up the CN Tower. At 1815 feet tall, the CN Tower was once the world's tallest freestanding structure. A true icon of the city, the view from the top is incredible. And if you're feeling really brave, you can take part in the Skywalk, where you walk around the outside of the tower secured by a safety harness.
• Ice hockey occupies a place in Canadian culture that few other sports can claim in any country. More than just a game, the sport ties the nation together and is a source of national pride. The Hockey Hall of Fame is a tribute to this national obsession and houses artifacts dating back to the earliest years of the sport. Large bags are not allowed inside, so make sure you drop yours off at a luggage storage service in Toronto before you visit.
• Experience Toronto's up-and-coming vibrancy in the Distillery District. Built in the 1800s to house a distillery, this neighborhood has been renovated. Now, the old buildings are full of theaters, galleries, restaurants, and bars.  It's the ideal place to hang out and enjoy a drink or a bite to eat.

Toronto lockers

In the summer, Toronto can be quite a walkable city. But that all changes when winter comes and the snow begins to fall. Plus, as a North American city, many of Toronto's attractions are quite spread out. Luckily, an excellent transit system helps you get around. You can make things easier on yourself by not carrying more than you need to. Drop off any heavy bags at a Toronto suitcase storage service so that you can travel unencumbered.

Off the beaten path in Toronto

Along with its better-known attractions, Toronto has plenty of secrets to uncover. As a city that keeps on growing, there's always something new opening up. Look a little deeper, and you'll find some fascinating parts of Toronto most tourists have yet to discover.

• You don't expect to find castles in Canada, but that's exactly what you'll see at Casa Loma. Built in the early 20th century, this extravagant castle was the home of a local tycoon. However, his extravagant house bankrupted him. Guided tours allow you to appreciate the ambition of the man who built this unique house. Large bags aren't permitted, so make sure you drop them off at a Toronto luggage storage locker before you go.
•  Street art is a facet of any major city. In Toronto, the city has decided to deal with graffiti by making it legal in one particular street. Rush Lane in the fashion district is a boldly decorated open-air gallery where the city's most talented street artists show their skills. Bring a camera and enjoy this unique artistic experience.
• Admire the esoteric at The Monkey's Paw. This bookstore is full of rare and antiquarian books you simply won't find anywhere else, and browsing the shelves is almost like taking a trip back in time. It's also the home of the world's first random vending machine. Put in a $2 coin, known as a toonie, and the machine will give you a randomly selected book to enjoy.

What to do alone in Toronto

Despite its size, Toronto is a remarkably safe city, which makes it great to explore by yourself. Traveling alone lets you see exactly what you want and can let you cover more ground than you would otherwise. In Toronto, you'll find plenty to do whether you're traveling by yourself or with others.

• Thanks to successive waves of immigration, Toronto's food scene is one of the most exciting in North America. Experience some of what the city has to offer with a guided food tour that will take you to some of the most interesting restaurants in Canada. Sample dishes and delicacies from around the world and meet other travelers as you enjoy Canada's culinary capital.
• Kensington Market is one of the most diverse and eclectic neighborhoods in his famously diverse city. Take a stroll through this district and enjoy the vintage clothing stores, record shops, bookstores, and seemingly endless bars and restaurants. Long known as one of Toronto's coolest districts, it's a fascinating place to explore.
• See the market National Geographic rated the number one in the world at St. Lawrence Market. This massive food market is the perfect place to pick up local produce and try a selection of delicacies from around the world. Leave your heavy bags behind at a luggage storage shop in Toronto before exploring this vibrant market.

The best souvenirs in Toronto

Toronto may be the best shopping city in all of Canada. Replica CN towers and Canadian maple syrup can be found in just about every souvenir store in the downtown area. But if you want to pick up something a little more authentic, grab a hockey jersey or other branded memorabilia of the Toronto Maple Leafs at the official store located in the city's massive hockey stadium. You could also pick up some swag from the Toronto Blue Jays, Canada's only major league baseball team. Or if you're really looking to push the boat out, shop for jewelry made with Canadian diamonds at Linara.

Explore the world

Get the bounce app.

Instantly find locations nearby to drop off your luggage wherever you go.

22 Toronto Must-Visit Attractions [Tourist Guide] – Photos, Maps and Tips!

Toronto is truly a world-class city, with a vibrant culture, packed with a multitude of must-visit attractions and tourist hot-spots.

But, with so many places to visit and explore in and around the city, which Toronto attractions are the best to see if you have a limited amount of time? And what are the top things to do while in Toronto?

Well, below is a list of 22 must-visit attractions in the Toronto area , perfect for tourists and out-of-towners who want to experience all the city has to offer.

And as a local Torontonian, I’ve included pro-tips such as good-to-knows, best times to visit, money saving tips, and photography suggestions, so you get the best overall experience during your visit (and crush it on Instagram!).

Pro-tip: To help you get into the city and navigate inside, check out How To Get Around Toronto by Public Transit .

1. Niagara Falls

Although not technically in the city, a visit to Toronto wouldn’t be complete without a visit one of its most famous attractions – Niagara Falls.

Only a 90-minute drive from downtown Toronto, this natural wonder is truly awe-inspiring. The roar of the falls and the sheer amount of water plummeting over the edge is incredible to experience in person. And at night, the falls are illuminated with colorful lights that look spectacular.

There are two sections of the falls, both of which are visible from the Canadian side. And, the small town surrounding the falls is filled with other attractions including a water park, casino, museums, and countless restaurants. It makes for a great day trip or even an extended stay.

For a truly unforgettable experience, be sure to take the ‘voyage to the falls’ boat tour . The 15-minute tour takes you right up to the falls and you get to experience a truly panoramic view. But the tour operates seasonally, usually spring through to mid fall, and costs $30 CAD per adult.

Good To Knows

Many reputable tour companies offer pick-up and drop-off tours of Niagara Falls. Most basic tours start at around $70 CAD per person. Here are a few good companies to check out (not  affiliated) :

• https://www.niagarafallsbustours.ca
• https://www.niagaratours.ca
• https://www.bgniagaratours.com

Best Time to Visit

Niagara Falls is stunning all year-round. However, the spring and summer months are jam packed with tourists. The fall and winter months are significantly less busy. One year I took my cousin to see the falls on Christmas Eve and I could count how people were there on one hand.

Regardless, the earlier you arrive, the better to beat the crowds. There are no gates, so the falls are accessible 24 hours a day.

Money Saving Tips

You can opt to take public transit to see the falls instead of booking with a tour group. The two public options include:

• Megabus – $45 CAD round trip, 2 hours each way
• GoTransit – $51 CAD round trip, 3 hours each way

Although Megabus is cheaper, GoTransit runs more often. Both websites include trip planners to help you navigate your way to and from Niagara Falls.

Here are the directions to Niagara Galls from Toronto by GoTransit:

• From Union Station, take the Lakeshore West Go Train towards Aldershot
• Exit at Burlington Go Station
• Get on the “12 – Niagara Falls” Go Bus and take it all the way to the Niagara Falls Bus Terminal

Once at the bus terminal, you can walk or buy a WEGO bus day pass ($9 CAD per adult), and head towards the falls to enjoy!

Photography Tips

The horse-shoe shaped Canadian side of the falls are definitely the better looking of the two sections of the falls. There are plenty of locations along the walk up to the falls to snap an unobstructed view of the falls.

Also drone enthusiasts are reminded that the use of drones is prohibited at Niagara Falls.

2. CN Tower

Over the years, the Toronto skyline has expanded and transformed. But one thing has always remained constant – the CN Tower.

Standing just over 550 meters tall, the CN Tower pierces into the sky, and stands as a beacon for all to marvel.

This engineering wonder is definitely a must-visit attraction, located in the heart of downtown Toronto. 

The CN tower is open from 10 am to 8 pm everyday. Visitors are able to ride the elevators up to the observation levels for panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario.

For the ultra brave, you can attempt the EdgeWalk ($254 CAD), a death-defying walk around the OUTSIDE of the CN tower!

Be sure to check the weather before booking your tickets. Low laying clouds can completely obstruct the view.

Also, for a little extra, you can take the additional elevator up to the higher “Skypod” observation level. Personally, I find the regular observation level great, but if you’re visiting only once then you might as well go all out!

If you’re planning on visiting a few more attractions in Toronto, I recommend purchasing a Toronto CityPASS . So, for $109 CAD you gain admission to 5 of Toronto’s most popular attractions including:

• Ripley’s Aquarium
• Royal Ontario Museum
• Toronto Zoo OR Ontario Science Center

And the great thing is you have 30 days to visit them all!

3. Toronto Islands

If you want a quick and easy way to escape the city during your visit, you can head over to the Toronto Islands.

Only a short ferry-ride ($8.20 CAD) from the harbourfront, the collection of islands known as Toronto Island Park is teaming with attractions perfect for kids and adults.

From sandy beaches and a mini amusement park, to a petting zoo and even a frisbee-golf course, the islands have something for everyone.

Concrete pathways zig-zag around the island, and benches and picnic areas are dotted throughout. You can rent bikes or kayaks to explore more of the islands from land or water. Plus, there are many restaurants, shops, and washroom facilities, so you can visit worry free.

Personally, I like going in the morning, laying down a blanket under a tree, and reading a book while enjoying a “tasty” beverage or two.

Information about Toronto Island Park, including amenities and activities can be found online here .

Ferry tickets now need to be purchased online as per new COVID protocols. Ferry capacities are also limited so get there early as it’s fist come, first board!

There is one ferry terminal on the main land and three ferry terminals on the islands. Strollers, bikes, coolers, and dogs are allowed on board!

Toronto Island Park is open all year-round, however during the spring thaw the water level in Lake Ontario is usually higher leading to flooding in parts of the islands.  This means that some areas are inaccessible unfortunately.

4. Graffiti Alley

The street art in Toronto is as diverse and expressive as its people. Street corners, buildings and back-alleys are filled with intricate and unique graffiti by local and international artists.

By far the best place to capture and experience this art form is graffiti alley. Located next to Queen’s Street West [ here ], this area has a dense concentration of graffiti which is why it attracts so many curious visitors.

Although not overrun with people, graffiti alley tends to get fairly busy in the summer, mostly by younger photographers and visitors.

So, to beat the crowd, your best bet is to go early. Arrive before 9 am and you’ll most likely have the entire area for yourself.

A trip to graffiti alley will definitely step-up your Instagram game. Make sure you snap a photo with the TORONTO sign as well as meander through some of the other nearby streets for more graffiti not regularly captured by most people.

Alternatively, you can try out night photography to get a different perspective. Graffiti alley is fairly safe to visit at night as it’s next to a major street with lots of foot traffic.

5. Nathan Phillips Square

Named after a previous mayor of Toronto, Nathan Phillips square is a multi-use plaza located in front of Toronto City Hall.

Millions of people visit the square throughout the year to enjoy the concerts, art installations, seasonal festivals, and rallies.

The architecture of City Hall makes a wonderful backdrop. The dual buildings are curved and tower above the square.

However, most people who visit tend to enjoy the two main attractions – the illuminated TORONTO sign and the reflecting pool which transforms into a skating rink in the winter!

As I mentioned, during the winter the reflecting pool is turned into an ice rink. The rink gets very busy during the weekends but during the weekdays there are usually only a handful of skaters.

The rink is free to use so you can bring your own skates! But, if you need rentals they cost $10 CAD for adults and $5 CAD for kids under 12 for two hours.

6. Yonge-Dundas Square

Just like a trip to New York would be incomplete without a visit to Times Square, the same can be said for Yonge-Dundas Square in Toronto.

Yonge-Dundas Square is usually bustling with street vendors and street performers amusing the crowds. Towering billboards and TV screens canvass the buildings surrounding the square and illuminate the streets at night.

The square is located at the north-east corner of Eaton Center and is flanked by retail stores, restaurants, and other businesses.

When something monumental happens, like when Team Canada wins the gold at the Olympics or the Raptors are crowned NBA world champions, everyone (and I mean EVERYONE) in Toronto seems to flood into Yonge-Dundas Square.

At times it truly feels like the center of the city where locals and visitors celebrate victories and rejoice together so it’s definitely an attraction worth visiting.

It’s best to visit Yonge-Dundas Square on foot. Parking is extremely limited on side streets and tends to fill up fast.

So, if you’re traveling from far, your best bet is taking the subway (Line 1) and exit at Dundas Station.

Best Time To Visit

To best capture Yonge-Dundas Square I highly recommend using a wide angle lens. A wide angle lens will let you photograph as much scenery as possible. Trust me, it’s a 360-degree experience!

7. Toronto Eaton Center

Although not as gargantuan as West Edmonton Mall or the Mall of America, the Toronto Eaton Center is a mecca for downtown shoppers looking to indulge in some shop therapy.

Open from 11 am to 7 pm, and 6 pm on Sundays, patrons can visit over 250 retailers, restaurants and service providers.

During the holiday season, the Eaton Center is packed with holiday shoppers but the vibe is usually festive and cheerful.

The mall’s architecture is spectacular. The all-glass ceiling and over-sized geese hanging from the roof is a sight to see. And, during Christmas, the mall is transformed into a winter wonderland. There is a massive 100-foot tall Christmas tree, gigantic illuminated reindeer, plus so much more Christmas décor.

As I mentioned, winter is my favorite time to visit. However, the weekends during the winter season are intense. There are hoards of people which can make it seem a bit claustrophobic.

Throughout the year, weekdays are less busy so try to go during the week if you can.

The best vantage point to see and capture the glass ceiling and geese is definitely from the south end of the mall (Queen Street entrance).

I find the vantage point from level 3 is the best!

8. Queens Quay / Harbourfront

Toronto is situated on the north end of Lake Ontario, the smallest of the 5 great lakes in North America.

The Toronto waterfront area is extensive and dotted with boardwalks, alcoves, and green spaces for visitors and locals to enjoy.

The “Queens Quay” and “Harbourfront” areas along the waterfront have lots of restaurants, shops and activities for kids and adults including kayaking, harbour tours, and festivals throughout the year.

You can rent and ride bikes along the dedicated bike path, take a stroll along the water’s edge, or find a shaded spot under a weeping willow tree during the summer. But my favorite activity is to watch the sunrise over the lake.

There are a lot of water taxis located along the waterfront offering to take patrons across to the Toronto Islands. Water taxis are slightly more expensive than the main ferry, but they are a lot more convenient and quicker.

For the rowdier crowd, there are a number of “party boats” that operate throughout the year if you’re into drinking and dancing on the water with the Toronto skyline as the backdrop.

As for washrooms, there are two public washrooms on the street (located here and here ) as well as a public washroom located in the Harbourfront center [ map ].

A hidden gem along the waterfront is the Toronto Music Garden [ map ]. The garden is host to free concerts and performances during the summer months.

The well-manicured garden and unique landscaping including the terraced steps and wrought-iron gazebo are the perfect backdrop for inspired photos, especially with the CN tower in the background. 

Engagement and wedding photographers frequent this spot, mostly during the fall for the spectacular array of colors.

9. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

The Royal Ontario Museum or ROM is home to one of the largest collection of archeological artifacts and historical items in Canada.

From towering dinosaur skeletons to relics from ancient Egypt, patrons are fully immersed in natural history items and collections acquired from all over the world.

In addition to its permanent collection, the ROM hosts a variety of special events and limited time exhibits throughout the years, so there’s always something new and exciting to see.

Every corner of the ROM is filled with unique and diverse items, it’s such a treat to explore for the young and old.

The ROM spans across 4 levels, so you can get lost quite easily. For those looking to explore on their own, here is a map guide of the ROM . There are also free described audio tours that you can download or listen to online. And, there are daily tours of the museum which are free with admission!

Backpacks are not permitted in the galleries, so the ROM offers a coat-check where you can leave larger items.

Generally, photography inside the ROM is allowed, however there may be some exceptions depending on the exhibit.

Canadian college and university students have free admission on Wednesdays (book online at [email protected]).

PRESTO card holders or GoTransit users ( public transit system in Toronto ) receive a 20% discount on admissions and special exhibitions. Book and save by calling the contact center at 1-416-586-8000.

10. Toronto Professional Teams

Most, if not all, major North American cities usually have a least one professional sports team. 

Well, Toronto is no different. In fact, there are a whopping 4 professional sports teams so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

• The Toronto Raptors (basketball)
• Toronto Maple Leafs (hockey)
• Toronto Blue Jays (baseball)
• Toronto Football Club (soccer)

So, grab a beer and a foot-long and spend the afternoon or evening cheering on the home team. The stadiums are usually packed with enthusiastic fans, and win or lose you’re guaranteed to leave smiling!

The fact that Toronto has 4 teams means you can enjoys watching sports pretty much all year-round.  Below is a list of the regular season window for each professional Toronto team:

• Toronto Raptors – October to April
• Toronto Maple Leafs – October to April
• Toronto Blue Jays – March to September
• Toronto Football Club – March to October

Toronto sports teams are world renowned, therefore attending games can be a bit pricey depending on the sport.

Soccer and baseball games in Toronto are definitely less expensive, ranging from $10 to $40 CAD.

Basketball tickets will set you back between $100 to $150 CAD.

Hockey games in Toronto are the most expensive to attend ( and are the highest in the NHL ), typically average $370 CAD. It’s definitely a sport for deep pockets.

11. Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)

The Canadian National Exhibition, or CNE as it’s widely known, is an end of summer tradition in Toronto. Essentially it’s a massive fair with various forms of entertainment, food, shopping, rides, games, and so much more.

Visitors from all across southern Ontario flock to the fair grounds over the 18 days leading up to and including Labour Day. Personally, I love watching the Super Dogs, street performers, and trying my hand at various mid-way games.

For food lovers, the CNE is also the perfect place to indulge in your wildest desires. From classic funnel cake and corn dogs, to deep fried butter and donut burgers, there’s something for every palate.

The CNE is definitely a must-visit summer attraction in Toronto. It’s perfect for families and friends, young and old!

The CNE is located at Exhibition Place. I highly recommend taking public transit to get there, either by street car or GoTrain (Exhibition Station).

General admission tickets are $20 at the gate. However, if you buy them online [ www.theex.com ] they cost $16 CAD per ticket. There is a $3 CAD service fee per transaction, so if you buy more than one ticket you already save! Ride passes are also discounted online.

To save more on the price of admission, visit after 5 pm. General admission tickets are only $9 CAD.

12. Casa Loma

If you’ve always wanted to visit a castle but just haven’t had the time to visit Europe, you’re in luck!

Situated on top of a hill overlooking downtown, Casa Loma is an ultra unique part of the city. It’s a medieval-looking mansion smack-dab in the middle of midtown Toronto. Now, it’s been turned into a museum and time capsule of sorts.

Walk through the 98 rooms including a 10,000 book library, and the beautiful gardens overflowing with flowers and sculptures.

This historic landmark is a must-visit attraction for the inquisitive!

Casa Loma is open 9:30 am to 5:00 pm Wednesday to Sunday and is closed Monday and Tuesday.

For an additional one-of-a-kind experience, Casa Loma also hosts “escape rooms” [ https://escapecasaloma.com ].

13. Ripley’s Aquarium

From sea turtles to sand sharks, sawfish to starfish, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is a truly wondrous place to visit any time of the year.

Centrally located in downtown Toronto next to the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium is a massive complex filled with all sorts of sea creatures both small and large.

Open from 10 am to 8 pm, visitors can literally walk through the underwater world of sting rays, moray eels, and jellyfish, and peer into their aquatic lives.

The “interactive zone” is tailor-made for curious kids and adults eager to get hands-on with wildlife. If fact, there’s so much to see and learn at Ripley’s Aquarium, I’ve gone 5 times and I still want to go back!

I highly recommend booking tickets online .  To limit the number of guests arriving all at once, the aquarium has implemented a timed ticket system. To reserve your entry time, select a specific time slot when purchasing tickets online.

You can save up to $8 CAD per ticket if you visit after 5 pm. Regular and “after dark” ticket prices are listed below:

• Adult (14 and up) = $44 or $36 CAD
• Youth (6 to 13) = $30 or $24 CAD
• Child (3 to 5) = $15 or $9 CAD
• Seniors (65 and up) = $30 or $24 CAD

Only hand-held cameras and equipment are permitted inside – the use of tripods are not allowed.

For the best pictures do not use flash. The light bounces off the acrylic glass tanks and obscures the image quality.

If you only have a smartphone, I would highly recommend getting a phone stabilizer like the DJI Osmo Mobile [ link to Amazon ]. It makes your videos look amazing, especially is such a unique place like Ripley’s Aquarium!

Finally, no visit to the is complete without a #SharkSelfie. The best place to get one is when you walk through the tank tunnel!

14. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)

From European masterpieces to distinguished Canadian artists, the Art Gallery of Ontario or AGO is home to close to 100,000 works of art from across the globe.

The vast collection includes paintings, sculptures, and immersive installations that stimulates the mind and inspires the soul.

Although the AGO is mostly geared towards a mature crowd, kids are definitely encouraged to visit.

Similar to Ripley’s Aquarium, it’s highly recommended that tickets are purchased online prior to visiting since time-specific entries are only permitted.

Photography is permitted at the AGO for personal use only, except where indicated. However, selfie sticks are not permitted at the AGO.

The AGO facility itself is truly a masterpiece. Be sure to capture the spiraling staircases, floor to ceiling glass, and exposed architecture of this unique building.

15. Distillery District

Definitely a must-visit Toronto attraction, the historic Distillery District is step back in time to the Victorian industrial era.

The cobblestone streets are lined with art galleries, specialty shops, and a variety of unique bars and restaurants.

Once the home to a large whiskey production facility, the distillery district is now a pedestrian-only area teaming with live entertainment, year-round festivals, and distinctive dining and shopping experiences.

The area is transformed in December and hosts the popular Toronto Christmas Market. From BeaverTails and hot cocoa, to hand-crafted ornaments and clothes, Torontonians flock to the Distillery District to celebrate the festive season together!

Winter is by far the best time to visit the Distillery District. The combination of snow, festive decorations, and glow of the lights make you feel so warm and fuzzy. Or maybe it’s the mulled wine!

16. High Park

Just like Central Park in New York or Stanley Park in Vancouver, High Park is an expansive urban green space nestled in Toronto that can be enjoyed by everyone all year-round.

The 399-acre park includes both manicured gardens, playgrounds, sports facilities, dog-friendly walking trails, and large tracts of natural forest.

During the spring, thousands of people flock to the High Park to see the cherry blossoms.

A personal favourite of mine, during the summer months the amphitheatre plays host to live renditions of “Shakespeare in the Park”. You can bring your own snacks and drinks and be entertained as you watch a Midsummer Nights Dream under the stars!

Also hidden within High Park is a mini zoo which is home to a variety of exotic animals including bison, capybara, emu and many more!

Truly there’s something for everyone at High Park, making it the perfect place to visit while in Toronto.

High Park transforms throughout the year, but the best times to visit would definitely be early spring (to see all the trees and flowers blossoming) and autumn (to see the fall colors).

The Sakura (cherry blossoms) trees bloom typically between late April to early May.

17. St. Lawrence Market

St. Lawrence Market is truly a historic landmark in Toronto. First established in 1803, St. Lawrence Market is a mecca for shoppers looking for fresh seafood and specialty spices, to the best coffee and pastries.

Food lovers will rejoice at the sheer number and variety of delicacies available – there’s just so much to choose from!

The market is very much like a bazaar, bustling with patrons and filled with a variety of vendors – clothes, souvenirs, flowers, beauty products, pretty much everything!

Because the St. Lawrence Market is all indoors, you can visit any time of the year, rain or shine!

18. Queen Street West

To see the latest trends in fashion, food, and design, take a stroll along Queen Street West.

From local bars and restaurants, to one-of-a-kind antique stores and tattoo parlors, Queen West as it’s also know as is home to an eclectic mix of shops and eateries.

The famous Graffiti alley is also found along Queen West.

From hippies to hipsters, the diversity along Queen West is something you must experience, especially during patio season in summer!

Queen Street West runs from Roncesvalles Avenue to Victoria Avenue. However, the section of with the most concentration of shops is between University Avenue to Dufferin Street, approximately 4 km long.

The street car (501) runs constantly along Queen Street, which makes seeing it end-to-end a bit easier.

19. Bloor Street (Yorkville)

The Yorkville region in Toronto is synonymous with high-class, glamour, and posh. Not everyone lives it, but it’s somewhere you can go to experience it, even partially. And within Yorkville there’s Bloor Street.

Between Yonge Street and University Avenue along Bloor Street, you’ll find high-end boutique shops like Burberry, Louis Vuitton, and Prada, to name a few.

So, just like Los Angeles has Rodeo Drive, Toronto has Bloor Street. And who knows, maybe you’ll rub shoulders with a celebrity while you’re there.

Bloor Street is positioned parallel and along Line 2 of the subway so it’s very accessible from downtown Toronto.

The Royal Ontario Museum is located nearby on Bloor Street next to University Avenue.

20. Entertainment District (King Street)

From historic theatres and concert halls, to an endless amount of bars and clubs, there’s no questioning how the entertainment district in Toronto got its name.

On Friday and Saturday nights, the streets are crawling with revellers looking to let loose, drink and dance the night away.

But if drinking and dancing isn’t your thing, there are also a number of plays and concerts to be seen. Both the Royal Alexandria and Princess of Whales theatres showcase world-renowned plays such as the Lion King and The Book of Mormon!

The highlight for me is that in September the entertainment district hosts the world famous Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Celebrities, influences, and idolizers flock to TIFF to talk all things cinema for two whole weeks!

So, no matter the time of the year, the Entertainment district will not disappoint making it a must-visit attraction in Toronto.

21. Gooderham Building (Flatiron Building)

Another beautiful example of the unique and historic architecture dotted around Toronto, the historic Gooderham Building is definitely a must-see attraction.

The red-brick exterior and triangular shape of the building is why it’s more commonly referred to as the flatiron building.

It’s located only a short walk from Union Station in downtown Toronto at the corner of Front and Church Street. It’s also located only a stone’s throw from St. Lawrence Market.

When viewed from the east looking westward, the juxtaposition of the Gooderham building with the skyscrapers of the financial district in the background makes for a marvelous contrasting photo.

22. Roy Thomson Hall

One of the most unique buildings in the city, Roy Thomson Hall is an architectural gem. The curved cylindrical shape and all-glass exterior makes for an elegant backdrop with the CN Tower located near by.  It’s so beautiful my wife and I actually had part of our wedding photographs taken in front of it!

Roy Thomson Hall plays host to concerts and speakers throughout the year. From National Geographic Live! to Star Wars in Concert, Roy Thompson Hall is the perfect venue for pure auditory nirvana.

Both the visually stunning design and opportunity for fantastic music make Roy Thomson Hall a definitely must-visit attraction in Toronto, which is conveniently located in the heart of downtown.

Check the Roy Thomson Hall  events and tickets webpage to see what’s playing beforehand. You might score seats to a great artist or concert that’s playing!

During the summer months, Roy Thomson Hall hosts free concerts in the evenings on its lower level patio. You can enjoy a drink while listening to jazz music in the warm summer breeze.

The best photo spot of Roy Thomson Hall is from the North West corner of Simcoe and King Street. The Hall is perfectly framed with the CN Tower rising above it in the background.

This article contains affiliate links, which help support this blog at no cost to you!

Related Posts

One of the best ways to sleep comfortably while camping...

What is Sleeping Pad R-Value? Insulation Explained

Whether it’s from a financial standpoint or an environmental one,...

Pros and Cons of Buying a Used Tent – Is It Actually Worth It?

Whether it’s your first time buying or you’re looking to...

Where Can You Buy a Used Tent?

Buying a used tent can seem like a great idea,...

7 Things to Look for When Buying a Used Tent

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

11 Must-Knows When Visiting Toronto For The First Time

Links in this article may earn us a little money if you book/ order stuff. More here

Visiting Toronto? Here’s What You Need to Know!

Is Toronto worth visiting? That answer is a huge YES! As one of the biggest cities in North America (bigger than every US city besides New York and LA), Toronto has plenty to offer visitors checking out Ontario.

Having grown up north of Toronto as well as living and working in Toronto for a while, we like to think we know a thing or two about Canada’s largest city!

Toronto tourism is always booming – especially in the warm summer months but even in the dead of winter!

Table of Contents

General Information About Toronto

As the capital of Ontario and Canada’s largest city, Toronto has a lot to live up to! This diverse city of over 2.5 million people is bustling with life everywhere you look.

The city sits right on the shores of Lake Ontario – which is great for boating but creates interesting climate/weather all year round!

Now, keep in mind that in this post we are talking about just the city of Toronto. Toronto is part of a larger area called the GTA – or the Greater Toronto Area – which includes the city core and the surrounding regions of Peel, Durham, Halton, and York.

For your visit, you don’t really need to know about these areas if you are sticking to the city centre of Toronto.

That said, the next biggest cities in the surrounding area are Mississauga, Brampton, and Markham. Some people even include Hamilton in this mix – and then it gets even more complicated!

Subscribe to Ontario Away!

Receive updates & our monthly Ontario Events Calendar straight to your inbox.

• I agree to receive email updates and promotions. | For more details, review our  Privacy Policy . *

You can unsubscribe anytime. No spam.

A Brief History Lesson On Toronto

Toronto actually has a long history behind it. First a settlement by Indigenous Peoples, it was part of a trading route that led to other lakes in the north of the province.

The French settled there, then the British, and it was made the capital of Upper Canada to be called “York”. There was a Fort built – Fort York – but then it was attacked and sacked by Americans in 1812 (but then we burnt down the White House).

The city grew as immigrants settled in from abroad and eventually the city became “Toronto” in 1834 (before Canada was even a country).

Since then, it has grown out over time – essentially eating up smaller neighbourhoods as it went to become Canada’s economic and cultural powerhouse that it is today.

You can revisit some of the most historic elements of Toronto when you check out St. Lawrence Market , Old City Hall, and Queen’s Park .

Safety While Visiting Toronto

As far as large cities go, there is no guarantee for complete safety. Having said that, Toronto is considered a very safe city to live in and visit. The downtown core especially is a safe area.

However, as a visitor to Toronto (as with any place you are unfamiliar with) you should watch your pockets – especially on the TTC (public transit, see below) and at tourist attractions.

Besides that, watch out for bikes and streetcars when you cross the roads – and follow the pedestrian signals or else you might get a fine for jaywalking!

While it’s completely safe to be out at night – do be mindful of your surroundings depending on the areas you are going out in.

If you stick to the Entertainment District, Queen Street, or Ossington, it’s a safe bet there will be plenty of other people around.

Weather and Climate in Toronto

Largely because of the lake, Toronto has four distinct seasons that you can experience. That said, the seasonal temperature fluctuation can basically go from -30 degrees Celsius in the cold of January winter to +35 degrees Celsius in the summer in August.

Another thing to remember is that Toronto summer is nicer in May and June as opposed to July and August. Toronto is notorious for humid heat in the summer so you may sweat even if you are in the shade!

As we said, the best time to visit Toronto would be the early summer or even in the fall. September and October can be cooler but September still has the chance of some residual summer heat.

You also get the beautiful autumn colours on the trees which some people pay big money to see!

Flying Into Toronto Airports

If you are visiting Toronto from far away, there’s a good chance that you will be flying in.

Toronto has two main airports that most passengers use: Toronto Pearson International Airport and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. We’ll dive into which is which below:

Pearson International Airport

With the airport code YYZ, Pearson is the largest/busiest airport in all of Canada. While the airport handles domestic flights, it is the main hub for international destinations.

If you need to learn more about Pearson, you can check out Pearson’s website here .

Now, keep in mind that Pearson is NOT close to downtown Toronto. The airport is located in Mississauga which is outside the city centre. However, you have a few options to get to downtown/the city centre.

You can take a cab or airport shuttle to your hotel but this option can be expensive. Luckily, if you are heading downtown (to then go to a hotel or take public transit to another place in the city) you have one great option: The UP Express Train.

The UP Express – a Union-Pearson Train – is super easy to take between Terminal 1 and Union Station. You can buy tickets ahead of time online, on your phone, or in person at the machines or kiosks.

You can also get a Presto Card (used for Toronto transit), load it up, and use it for the UP. We will cover the Presto Card below…

The UP only opened a few years ago and we’ve already taken it countless times. Eric grew up in a time when the UP didn’t exist so the fact that there’s a direct train link between downtown Toronto and the airport is awesome (and makes loads of sense).

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

With the airport code YTZ, Toronto also has Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. This small island airport flies Porter Airlines and Air Canada to short/medium distance flights to the US (New York, Chicago) and other places in Ontario/Canada.

If you do somehow fly into Billy Bishop, you can take the ferry from the island or walk (in a tunnel) from the airport to the mainland which is downtown Toronto.

You can learn more about Billy Bishop here . Eric has flown through Billy Bishop a handful of times and it’s been really nice each time. It’s a small, well-functioning airport!

Getting To/Around Toronto

To get to Toronto, you have a few options: you can drive, take the bus, or take the train – either the ViaRail or the GO (regional Ontario train).

If you have rented a car and are driving, downtown Toronto is encased by a highway “box” of four major routes:

• the 401 runs east-west at the north end of the city,
• the Highway 404/Don Valley Parkway runs north-south to the east,
• the Gardiner Expressway runs along the waterfront at the south,
• and Highway 427 runs north-south on the west side of the city.

The main transport hub is Union Station which is right downtown on Front Street.

This massive hub (which is basically always somehow under renovation) is the busiest station in Canada and handles passengers heading every which way on buses, regional, and long-distance trains. You can check out more information about Union here .

Public Transportation (the TTC)

Once you are in Toronto, you will have the experience of riding the TTC. The “Toronto Transit Commission” is responsible for public transportation in Toronto.

Lovingly known as the TTC, it will get you from A to B eventually. We say this because the system is prone to delays for a variety of reasons. That said, it’s reliable most of the time.

The TTC is made up of the subway, buses, and streetcars. The subway is good for going north-south across downtown, while the streetcars and buses fill in the gaps on major streets.

Toronto is basically a giant grid system so it’s pretty easy to get around if you have your bearings about you.

When you get on transit (or go through a paid gate to enter the subway), you can now just tap your contactless card (way to get with the times, Toronto).

The other more permanent solution is the Presto Card – the official tap card of the system and a few other transit systems in Ontario.

If you plan on using it more than a few times, you might opt to buy a Presto at a vending machine (for a small fee) and load it with money (minimum $10.00).

To use the Presto, just tap to get “on” the subway, streetcar, or bus and tap again if you transfer between modes of transportation.

Presto card users get to use the “two-hour transfer” rule meaning that from the first tap you have two hours to basically get on and off and go in any direction you want – all for the price of one fare.

Just tap each time you change vehicles or directions. Fares are not based on distance so you don’t have to tap “off” or out of the system again.

You can learn more about TTC fares and schedules and learn about the Presto Card .

You can also still use cash to pay for tickets but only when there is a manned payment box on the bus or in the subway station.

If you do pay with cash or a method that is not Presto, remember to take your paper “transfer”. It’s your Proof of Payment for the ride.

Driving in Toronto

Driving in Toronto isn’t terrible since it’s a big grid – but it can get pretty congested in the morning and afternoon (after work). Parking downtown can also be expensive.

You also have the option to take an Uber, Lyft, or taxi. Toronto is a big city with lots of drivers usually available.

The Neighbourhoods of Toronto

Toronto is known to be a “city of neighbourhoods” in the sense that you can walk from one and into another and feel like you’ve switched countries let alone the street.

We’ll mention below just how diverse Toronto is – but it shows in the areas around the city!

Each neighbourhood or district in Toronto has its own vibe and borders. We explain a handful of the popular ones below so you can see what’s in each one:

• The Danforth (Greektown) – an international hub of food and shops
• Liberty Village – residential area in West End with restaurants
• Distillery District – red brick factory area with breweries and shops
• The Beaches – trendy and residential in the East end with the beach
• Leslieville – also trendy area with shops, cafes, in the East End
• Cabbagetown – a historic and residential area
• The Annex – student area with trendy and cheap eats
• Kensington Market – eclectic market area with food and shops
• Chinatown – the quintessential Chinese-influenced area on Spadina
• Queen Street West – good for shopping and food
• King West – great for restaurants and bars
• Entertainment District – best clubs, sports, bars, theatres, etc
• Toronto Islands – green space with residents and amusement park
• and many more!

Culture / Language in Toronto

For those who live there, it’s no secret: Toronto is a diverse city. How diverse? Toronto has been named the most diverse city in the world with over 200 nationalities represented, 140 languages, and 51% of residents being born outside of Canada.

It’s no wonder that there are so many little international pockets all over the city: Little Italy, Koreatown, etc.

The language spoken in Toronto is English, but French is also an official language of Canada. That said, you are more likely to hear literally any other language in a Toronto coffee shop before you hear French. Seriously.

That said, one time in a coffee shop in The Beaches Lisa ended up having a brief conversation with a woman in her native language – German!

The woman (who also lived in Toronto) was so surprised to hear German spoken that wasn’t her young kids.

Toronto Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars

This rich culture and diversity are certainly represented in the available food around the city. Toronto has a booming food scene – and you will get to experience it if you head to Toronto.

You can basically find any cuisine from across the world in Toronto – and that is not an exaggeration.

That said, Toronto is known for its brunch culture. There are brunch places everywhere – and the weekend mornings are sacred brunch time.

If you are heading for brunch be sure to be early or expect to wait a bit! There are loads of great brunch places and we will write a whole post on them soon!

Toronto also has a strong coffee culture. Canadians (in general) drink a lot of coffee compared to other countries so cafes are a very common occurrence around the city.

You can try Tim Hortons – the classic Canadian brand – but explore the city for tiny coffee shops… they pop out of everywhere!

Finally, Toronto has a strong bar/pub/club culture – being a massive city. The Entertainment District is a good place to start if you are looking for a place to go out for drinks or dancing.

There are other pockets to go out in (like Ossington) but generally, you’ll find bars all over the city. We really like Bar Hop (shown above) for food pints and food!

Read More: Our Favourite Bars in Downtown Toronto

Paying and Tipping In Toronto

While you are out in Toronto, it’s a good idea to know how paying and tipping work in Canada/the city.

You can use cash in the city but basically everywhere accepts cards. In fact, it’s arguably the preferred method these days.

In Canada, tipping is expected for service. At a restaurant, the amount is generally 15% of the bill but it’s not unheard of to tip higher for really good service.

Sometimes large groups have tip automatically added to the bill so watch for that. Even poor service gets a tip – but a lower amount. No tip would be very rude.

You can also tip at the bar by tossing a dollar or two to the bartender for drinks – price depending, of course. Tipping well at the bar might mean you get drinks faster all night long… just sayin’.

Sports and Entertainment in Toronto

If you are looking for things to do in Toronto, you will not have a shortage of options. From sports to festivals and bars and theatre, you will find something to suit all interests!

Toronto is a huge sports city – with hockey ( Maple Leafs ) and basketball ( Raptors ) at Scotiabank Arena , baseball ( Blue Jays ) at the Rogers Centre, and soccer ( Toronto FC ) being the most popular sports.

They also have a Canadian football team, Lacrosse team, and smaller sports leagues/levels.

In short, it can be expensive to watch live sports (especially Leafs). Jays tickets are still affordable if you sit up high.

If you just go to the bar to eat, drink, and watch the game among locals you will have a fun time all the same.

As for other things to do – we have a whole post on this. That said, there are many museums in Toronto like the Royal Ontario Museum , the Hockey Hall of Fame, the Art Gallery of Ontario , and more.

There are many theatres and musical venues as well like the Princess of Wales Theatre , Massey Hall, The Danforth Music Hall, and the Opera House – to name just a handful!

Related Articles

If you are looking for more articles about Toronto, you might find these interesting:

• Spending One Perfect Day in Toronto!
• Top Things to Do in Toronto
• A Guide On Where to Stay in Toronto
• Coffee Shops All Over Toronto
• Some Favourite Toronto Downtown Bars

And there you have it – our guide on things to know before visiting Toronto. Of course, we could have dove into each in more detail – but we will leave those for other posts!

Hopefully, you’ve learned a bit more about the city and look forward to exploring it. Let us know how that goes!

As always, Keep Exploring, eh? -E&L

Pin it for later!

Eric Wychopen

Hi, we're Eric and Lisa - an Ontario-born Canadian and a German! After settling in Ontario together, we realized that there is lots more to explore in this beautiful Canadian province! On Ontario Away, we as well as local contributors cover everything from cities and hikes to wineries, attractions, accommodations, and more.

Connect With Us On Social

If you'd like to join the conversation and get more tips, you can find us on social media as well!

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

Tourism Relief Fund Open for Applications

 The Tourism Relief Fund is now closed - Updated July 2023

Tourism Relief Fund applications through Regional Tourism Organization 5 (RTO5) are now open for businesses in Toronto, Mississauga and Brampton. 

The Tourism Relief Fund, first announced by the Government of Canada in April 2021, supports tourism businesses and organizations in adapting operations and meeting changing public health requirements, while providing an opportunity to invest in new products and services that can help make businesses more accessible for more customers. Under the leadership of FedDev Ontario, the fund is now available to businesses throughout southern Ontario. There are strict eligibility requirements and some business sectors such as hotels, restaurants, and retail are ineligible for this particular program. 

A total pool of $10 million is available to tourism businesses in Toronto, Mississauga, and Brampton. Destination Toronto is administering the program in its capacity as Regional Tourism Organization 5 (RTO5), working in close partnership with the City of Toronto, Tourism Mississauga, and the City of Brampton Tourism Office, on behalf of FedDev Ontario.

You can learn more about eligibility and the application process, and begin an application, by visiting the dedicated portal for the Tourism Relief Fund in our region:  rto5.com . 

To support businesses and help them navigate the application process, a webinar 12:00 pm on May 2, 2022 will provide an overview of the process and eligibility, including an opportunity to ask questions. You can find more information or register for the webinar here .

In addition, businesses can schedule a call with a TRF Business Liaison. The links and information are all available at  rto5.com . 

Destination Toronto

Toronto’s visitor economy is a vital economic engine for the city, generating more than $10 billion in economic activity and supporting 70,000 jobs in 2019. Destination Toronto’s mandate is to reflect the breadth and diversity of Toronto’s people, places and culture to inspire residents and visitors to meet, visit and explore our city. Operating in partnership with the City of Toronto, the Greater Toronto Hotel Association and the Ontario Ministry of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, Destination Toronto markets and promotes the city to global travellers, attracts and supports major meetings and events, and supports local businesses to maximize the opportunities of visitor spending. 

Celebrate the Victoria Day long weekend with family friendly activities

The City of Toronto is once again offering a wide range of fun activities and attractions for residents and visitors to enjoy during the Victoria Day long weekend.   

Victoria Day Fireworks at Ashbridges Bay Park

The City’s fireworks display will be held at Ashbridges Bay Park on Monday, May 20, at 10 p.m. The show will feature beautiful fireworks and a spectacular finale.  

Ashbridges Bay Park is located on Lake Shore Boulevard East at the foot of Coxwell Avenue and is accessible by public transit. Attendees are encouraged to use public transit and leave personal vehicles at home. Information about TTC schedules, routes and expanded long weekend service is available on the TTC’s webpage .

Important reminder about fireworks

Fireworks on Victoria Day and Canada Day are allowed until 11 p.m. without a permit for residents on private property. Fireworks are not permitted in City parks or on beaches, balconies, streets, parking lots or property that is not owned by the person setting off the fireworks.  

Fireworks should be handled and supervised by adults 18 years of age or older. People under 18 years old are not permitted to discharge fireworks. Those setting off fireworks must be mindful of their surroundings and not discharge fireworks where they may be a nuisance or pose a risk of fire, injury or damage to any person or property.   

The City’s bylaw enforcement officers and Toronto Police Services will be patrolling various parks and waterfront areas to ensure compliance with the Fireworks Bylaw.   

The misuse or illegal sale of fireworks can be reported to 311 by phone or by submitting a service request at www.toronto.ca/311 . 

In the event of a fire, call 9-1-1.  

Safe fireworks disposal

Those choosing to set off fireworks on their own private property must also safely dispose the fireworks as improper disposal can cause fires in waste collection vehicles and at facilities.   

To dispose of used or unused fireworks, completely submerge the fireworks in water and soak them overnight. Put the soaked fireworks in a plastic bag to keep them from drying out and dispose of them in your Garbage Bin. Never put used or unused fireworks in the Blue Bin.   

More information about fireworks rules, safety tips and proper disposal is available on the City’s fireworks webpage .    

Enjoy the City’s parks and beaches

The City has more than 1,500 parks and beaches for residents and visitors to enjoy this long weekend. People visiting these spaces are reminded that bonfires are not permitted in parks, beaches or public spaces, except for City-designed fire pits which require a permit. Amplified sound such as DJ equipment and large wireless speakers and littering in parks and on beaches are also not permitted.  

Swimming without a lifeguard on duty is not recommended and beachgoers are advised to always monitor the weather and water conditions, never swim alone and stay close to the shore. More information can be found on the City’s Beaches webpage .

The Toronto Police Service will respond to public safety issues in parks and beaches this weekend. City Bylaw Enforcement Officers will also monitor busy parks and beaches.  

Stay cool and refreshed at our splash and spray pads

Splash and spray pads will open for the season on Friday, May 17 with a few exceptions at sites undergoing maintenance or located on outdoor pool decks. Splash pads operate daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and are activated with push-button features. Caregivers are reminded to supervise children as these are unsupervised water-play areas. Information about splash-pad locations is available on the City’s Swimming and Water Play webpage .

Take a swing at municipal golf courses

Toronto’s five municipal golf courses are located on beautiful parkland. These affordable, high-quality and TTC-accessible courses are open daily which includes this long weekend. More information about the golf courses and booking tee times is available on the City’s golf webpage .

Visit conservatories and greenhouses  

Flowers are in full bloom at Centennial Park Conservatory and Allan Gardens Conservatory. Both conservatories are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free.   

More information about conservatories can be found on the City’s webpage .  

Escape to Riverdale Farm

Residents and visitors to Toronto can escape urban life and visit a working farm in the heart of the city. Riverdale Farm is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free. More information is available on the City’s webpage .   

See the High Park Animal Display

Toronto’s oldest animal display is open daily between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Roads in the park will be closed to vehicular traffic for all three days of the Victoria Day long weekend. More information about the High Park Animal Display is available on the City’s webpage .  

Head to the Toronto Zoo

Get up close and learn more about your favourite animals. The Toronto Zoo is open from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily including Victoria Day. Visitors can discover more than 3,000 animals while exploring more than 10 km of walking trails. Timeslots can be booked online on the City’s Zoo webpage .    

Check out Toronto History Museums

All Toronto History Museums are closed on Monday May 20 but will be operating at regular hours on Saturday and Sunday this weekend.  

General admission to all 10 Toronto History Museums is free and provides everyone an opportunity to fully participate in cultural heritage and spaces. For locations, hours of operation and more, visit Toronto History Museums’ webpage .   

Toronto is home to more than three million people whose diversity and experiences make this great city Canada’s leading economic engine and one of the world’s most diverse and livable cities. As the fourth largest city in North America, Toronto is a global leader in technology, finance, film, music, culture and innovation and climate action, and consistently places at the top of international rankings due to investments championed by its government, residents and businesses. For more information visit the City’s website or follow us on Twitter , Instagram or Facebook .

Eugene Levy's favourite Toronto places according to the New York Times

Latest Videos

Hometown hero, comedian Eugene Levy, has been making waves in Hollywood for decades now, but in a recent New York Times article , the Toronto native proves he'll always be a 6ix God at heart.

In the article, NYT writer Abby Kozolchyk — with the help of Levy, star and producer of  Schitt's Creek —  lays out the multi-hyphenates five favourite places in the city, and they're surprisingly (or, perhaps  un surprisingly,) unpretentious.

From restaurants to tourist traps and everything in between, here are Eugene Levy's five favourite places in Toronto.

Cafe and Restaurants

A long-time resident of Rosedale , it should come as no surprise that the first locale on Levy's list was what some may consider an iconic neighbourhood go-to: Terroni Bar Centrale .

It's not the steaming bowls of pasta or un-cut pizzas that Levy loves Terroni for, though — he's a fan of making a morning driveby of the restaurant's main floor cafe for a latte and pastry.

Speaking specifically about sitting down for a proper meal, Levy has a favourite for that, too. Another Rosedale restaurant, Avant Gout , is apparently a go-to for Levy and his wife, Deborah Divine.

A slightly more luxe option, Eugene Levy also adores the Windsor Arms . According to the Times article, the love affair began early in Levy's career when he'd blow his paycheques on treats at the Courtyard Cafe, which is now Courtyard.

Entertainment

I'll just rip the band aid off: Eugene Levy listed the CN Tower as one of his favourite spots in the city. Before you roll your eyes, though, Levy argues in the article that, however touristy it may be, the views from the tower still can't be beat.

If you, like Levy, suffer from a fear of heights, the comedian suggests heading to the Rogers Centre for a Jays game to get a different kind of view of the city — through its sports fans.

A less-standard entertainment option for Toronto residents and tourists alike, Levy also recommends the Royal Conservatory of Music , noting its reputation as a star-maker for some great Canadian talents, and regular concerts at Koerner Hall .

For someone who's spent the better part of his adult life frequenting premiers and award shows, Levy knows first-hand the value of a good suit, which is why he particularly cherishes the luxury one-stop-shop offerings at Yorkville's Harry Rosen.

Jesse Milns and Schitt's Creek

Join the conversation Load comments

Latest in City

The history of what was once Toronto's grandest mansion

Moore Park Ravine is an escape from the city in midtown Toronto

The breathtaking Mast Trail in Toronto follows a 200-year-old logging route

You can take in breathtaking valley views along the Vista Rouge Trail in Toronto

Downsview Park in Toronto is a massive urban park around an artificial lake

Canada is seeing one of the worst standard-of-living declines in 40 years

Tributes pour in after death of Toronto City Councillor Jaye Robinson

It's going to get way easier to pay transit fare in Toronto with your phone

• Brand Studio
• Where to Find Us
• Careers & Internships
• Submit a News Tip
• Speakers Corner
• Athlete of the Week
• Advertise With Us
• Newsletters
• News Insiders

The WNBA is investigating whether Vegas tourism authority can sponsor Aces players for $100K each

By Mark Anderson, The Associated Press

Posted May 18, 2024 3:39 pm.

Last Updated May 18, 2024 7:12 pm.

LAS VEGAS (AP) — The WNBA is investigating whether the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority’s $100,000 annual sponsorship to Aces player for this season and next is allowed.

A league spokesperson confirmed Saturday that there is an open investigation looking into the deal. The sponsorship does not violate the WNBA’s salary cap because the Las Vegas authority did not orchestrate it with the club. But other teams likely were raising questions about the fairness of the sponsorship and whether it violates the spirit of the cap rules.

“I’ll put it to you real simple. Most of sponsorship people go after the top two people,” Aces coach Becky Hammon said. “This situation from what I understand is, they wanted the whole team. They called individual agents. I don’t know the details. I have nothing to do with it. The Aces don’t have anything to do with it. That’s what happened.”

This isn’t the Aces first run-in with the league over the last few years. Last year, the WNBA suspended Hammon for two games and took away the Aces’ 2025 first-round draft pick because the franchise violated league rules regarding impermissible player benefits and workplace policies.

“Just another day in the life of the Aces. We can’t just ever start normal,” star A’ja Wilson said. “There’s always going to be something and that’s OK. When we’re talking about growing the game or taking the next step it can’t always be investigated. It has to be like we’re trying to make things better for franchises, for players for teams.”

The head of the authority feels they did nothing wrong.

“We did this the right way,” authority president and CEO Steve Hill told The Associated Press on Saturday. “We did something that we think works for Las Vegas and I think great for the players. We did this without the team. It was our idea and any questions they ask they’ll find that out.”

The authority posted a video on X of Hill telling the players in the locker room the news on Friday.

“We have 100 influencers we pay to represent Las Vegas,” Hill told the AP. “This isn’t any different then that. All of these ladies are completely eligible to have sponsorships. We are just asking them to represent Vegas.”

The players were thrilled by the move.

“The city of Vegas I’ve always said, it’s a big small town and they just want the best for the people here,” point guard Chelsea Gray said before the Aces’ home game Saturday against the Los Angeles Sparks. “They’re investing in us and so they put their money where their mouth is. We’ve done so much for the city and having fun doing it.

“It was a great moment for me and my teammates, of somebody actually putting funds behind, saying that they’re supporting and they want to have our back.”

According to the website Spotrac, which tracks player salaries, the sponsorship is higher than the earnings of six Aces players.

“Definitely more than my salary,” said rookie Kate Martin, who makes $67,249, according to the website. “I’m super thankful. Sometimes I have to pinch myself to make sure I’m not dreaming, but this is very much real life and that is what all these players deserve. I wouldn’t be getting this crazy bonus if it weren’t for how great all of these players have played in the last few years.”

The $100,000 also is a big addition even to what the top players make. A’ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum are the highest-paid Aces at $200,000 each and Gray is right behind at $196,267.

“(For) the LVCVA to see our value and to help close that pay gap, it says a lot about the character of the people that are there,” said Alysha Clark, whose salary is listed at $110,000. “So I’m extremely grateful. I’m honored to be able to represent this organization and this city and be able to put on for the city, give back to this city and pour into the community, and that’s what they did for us. It was really, really special.”

AP Basketball Writer Doug Feinberg and AP freelance writer W.G. Ramirez contributed to this report.

AP WNBA: https://apnews.com/hub/wnba-basketball

Mark Anderson, The Associated Press

Top Stories

One man is dead following a shooting Saturday morning in Brampton. Peel police say they were called to a home on Ivor Crescent in the area of Mississauga Road and Sandalwood Parkway just before 7:30...

A Durham Regional Police spokesperson said emergency crews responded to the scene near Uxbridge at around 10:30 a.m. on Saturday.

Toronto police are searching for a man following a stabbing incident early Saturday morning in the downtown core. Police say a group of men were gathered in the area of Yonge Street and Dundas Street...

A major seizure of baby eels at Toronto's Pearson International Airport that federal officials say was destined for shipment overseas is estimated to be worth between $400,000 and $500,000. The seizure...

Most Watched Today

Peel Police say a man is dead after he was found with gunshot wounds in a vehicle outside a Brampton home just before 7:30am. Michelle Mackey is speaking with residents and investigators.

Summer-like warmth is on the way, but first we'll have some foggy patches. Natasha Ramsahai has the details in the seven-day forecast.

The search for a new bench boss in Toronto is over as the Maple Leafs hire Craig Berube.

A 4,000-pound greater one-horned rhino is getting ready to pack his bags and head south. Audra Brown with why Kiran, born at the zoo 6 years ago, is now headed to Miami.

Toronto city councillor Jaye Robinson has died at the age of 61. Robinson, who represented Ward 15 – Don Valley West for 14 years, was diagnosed with two forms of breast cancer in 2019 forcing her into a part-time role.

Toronto awarded WNBA expansion team to begin play in 2026

Larry tanenbaum's kilmer sports group to run league's 14th franchise.

Social Sharing

Women's professional basketball is coming to Toronto. 

CBC Sports has learned that Kilmer Sports Inc., headed by Toronto billionaire Larry Tanenbaum, has been granted an expansion franchise with the Women's National Basketball Association.

An announcement is expected May 23 in Toronto, with the team to begin play in May 2026, according to four people with knowledge of the deal but who are not authorized to speak about it.

The WNBA did not confirm the Toronto move.

"We continue to engage in productive conversations with interested ownership groups in a number of markets and the granting of any expansion teams requires a vote of the WNBA and NBA board of governors," the league said.

Tanenbaum is a minority owner and chairman of sporting giant Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment which owns the Maple Leafs, Raptors, TFC, Argos and Marlies.

The 79-year-old originally pursued the expansion team through MLSE, but it was turned down by other members of the board. 

• About 17 million Canadians consider themselves women's sports fans, report says
• Caitlin Clark reportedly signing record 8-year, $28 million US deal with Nike

The WNBA recently expanded to 13 teams with San Francisco-based Golden State to begin play next year, and commissioner Cathy Engelbert said in April Toronto was among the cities being considered as the 14th team.

In a statement, Courtney Glen, vice president of public affairs and communications for the Kilmer Group, said the organization has "no update at this time."

A WNBA spokesperson said: "We continue to engage in productive conversations with interested ownership groups in a number of markets but have no news to report at this time."

WATCH | What a Toronto WNBA team means for the city, players and fans:

Toronto is getting a WNBA team. What it means for the city, players and fans

Mayor Olivia Chow said in a television interview on Friday she was aware there was movement on Toronto getting a women's basketball team.

"Wait for it. Hopefully, there will be something later on," said Chow in an interview with local news channel CP24. "Basketball, it's just great and having role models, it's time.

"Hopefully, there will be good news soon and I can't wait for that to happen."

A source said the team would play at Coca-Cola Coliseum, an 8,000-seat arena at Toronto's Exhibition Place which is home to the Marlies and where Toronto's Professional Women's Hockey League franchise is currently playing its first playoff series.

• WNBA to begin full-time charter flights this season, commissioner says

Professional women's sports has been on the rise in Canada with the formation of the PWHL that has two other Canadian franchises in Ottawa and Montreal, as well as a new women's soccer league that is expected to begin play in 2025. 

A year ago, Toronto's Scotiabank Arena sold out for the WNBA's first pre-season game in Canada and on Saturday, more than 16,000 tickets were sold for a game in Edmonton's Rogers Place.

The league recently held its amateur draft, with NCAA star Caitlin Clark going first overall to the Indiana Fever.

Kilmer Sports Inc. is a new arm of Tanenbaum's Kilmer Group, and it has hired former European soccer executive Ivan Gazidis to lead the new group. Teresa Resch is also part of the new organization after leaving her job with the Raptors as vice president of basketball operations.

How sports fans are reacting to Toronto’s WNBA expansion team

About the author.

Senior Contributor

Shireen Ahmed is a multi-platform sports journalist, a TEDx speaker, mentor, and an award-winning sports activist who focuses on the intersections of racism and misogyny in sports. She is an industry expert on Muslim women in sports, and her academic research and contributions have been widely published. She is co-creator and co-host of the “Burn It All Down” feminist sports podcast team. In addition to being a seasoned investigative reporter, her commentary is featured by media outlets in Canada, the USA, Europe and Australia. She holds an MA in Media Production from Toronto Metropolitan University where she now teaches Sports Journalism and Sports Media. You can find Shireen tweeting or drinking coffee, or tweeting about drinking coffee. She lives with her four children and her cat.

Related Stories

• Opinion Canadian star Aaliyah Edwards proud to be part of a growing community of women's basketball
• Strong 1st PWHL season coincides with growing appetite for women's sports
• WNBA awards expansion franchise to Golden State, growing league to 13 teams
• 'Toronto wants WNBA': First-ever game in Canada shows viability of expansion to Toronto

Add some “good” to your morning and evening.

Get up to speed on what's happening in sports. Delivered weekdays.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Google Terms of Service apply.