toronto travel guide book

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• Worth the detour

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

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

THE SHORES OF LAKE ONTARIO

RIPLEY’S AQUARIUM OF CANADA

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

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

Harbourfront Center

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

The Toronto Islands

Ontario Place

Toronto Dominion Center

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

Hockey Hall of Fame

Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

100 Queen Street West, Toronto

Eaton Center

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

ART GALLERY OF ONTARIO

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

BATA SHOE MUSEUM

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

ROYAL ONTARIO MUSEUM

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

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

ONTARIO SCIENCE CENTRE

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

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

TORONTO ZOO

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

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

Optional activities

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

Where to eat

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

SEVEN LIVES ($)

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

Open daily from noon to 7 p.m.

AMSTERDAM BREWHOUSE ($$)

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

Open daily from 11 a.m.

Momofuku Noodle Bar ($$-$$$)

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

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

RICHMOND STATION ($$-$$$)

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

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

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

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

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

Canoe ($$$$)

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

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

*** Hours may vary ***

Where to sleep .

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

Festivals calendar

Toronto jazz festival.

Dates: late June - early July

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

Pride Toronto

Dates: end of June 

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

Toronto Caribbean Carnival

Dates: late July / early August

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

When to visit

• Very Favourable
• Unfavourable

Great city, a must see!

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

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

Download our travel guide

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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

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

Eating and drinking

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

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

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

Brief history

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

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

The Family Compact – and William Lyon Mackenzie

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

Toronto the Good

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

Modern Toronto

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Beaches

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

Cabbagetown

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

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

The Gay Village

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

Kensington Market

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

Little Italy

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

Little Portugal

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

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

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

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

Toronto Islands

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

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

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Toronto Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 28, 2024

While Toronto may lack the history of Montreal or the outdoorsyness of Vancouver , it makes up for it with tons of food and clothing markets, delicious and varied food, wonderful museums, funky bars and speakeasies, and lots of other things to see and do.

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

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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 specific cities in Canada, check out these guides:

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

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:

Where to Stay in Toronto

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

• The Parkdale Hostellerie
• The Only Backpacker’s Inn

For more hostel suggestions, check out my complete list of the best hostels in Toronto .

Toronto Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel dorms – 30-45 CAD per night
• Hostel private rooms – 75-90 CAD per night
• Budget hotels – 115-125 CAD per night
• Airbnb private rooms – 60-100 CAD per night
• Airbnb apartments – 140-180 CAD per night
• Street food – 3-4 CAD
• Sit-down restaurants – 20-50 CAD
• Casual take-out places – 9-20 CAD 
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) – 13 CAD
• Beer – 7 CAD
• Cappuccino/latte- 4.75 CAD
• Bottled water – 2 CAD
• Groceries for a week – 50-65 CAD

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

Toronto Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – 70 cad per day.

On a backpacking budget, 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.

Midrange – 160 CAD Per Day

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

Upscale – 375 CAD Per Day

On a “luxury” budget, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car or take more taxis, and do all the paid tours and activities you want.

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 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.

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.

How to Get Around in 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.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

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.

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!

Toronto Travel Guide: Related Articles

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

The 6 Best Hotels in Toronto

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

The 4 Best Hostels in Toronto

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Insight Guides Explore Toronto

Insight Guides Explore Toronto is a pictorial travel guide in a magazine style providing answers to the travel guide with ready-made walking itineraries for different interests and themes backed up by maps and all the practical information you could need for your trip. The easy-to-follow, ready-made driving routes will save you time, and help you plan and enhance your visit to Toronto.

In this travel guide you will find:

13 READY-MADE ITINERARIES TO CHOOSE FROM

Detailed itineraries feature all the best places to visit, including where to eat and drink along the way. Enjoy 13 best routes around Toronto, from Downtown West to Chinatown and The Toronto Islands without having to plan them yourself.

INVALUABLE MAPS

Each Best Route is accompanied by a detailed full-colour map, while the large pull-out map provides an essential overview of Toronto.

HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL INSIGHTS

Immerse yourself in Toronto's rich history and culture, and learn all about its people, art and traditions.

INSPIRATIONAL INSIDER INFORMATION

Concise insider information about landscape, history, food and drink, and entertainment options. This will make the ideal on-the-move companion to your trip to Toronto.

MUST-SEE SIGHTS AND HAND-PICKED HIDDEN GEMS

From Lake Ontario to Niagara Falls this guide will have you covered regardless of your travelling style and expectations.

DIRECTORY SECTION

Invaluable insight into important travel information, top accommodation, restaurant and nightlife options of Toronto by area, along with an overview of language, books and films.

STRIKING PICTURES

Features inspirational colour photography, including the stunning Toronto Music Garden and the spectacular St Lawrence Market.

Description

Book details.

This title is a part of Insight Guides Explore

Beautifully illustrated, practical pocket-sized travel guides to cities, regions and countries, based around a series of walking and driving tours and backed up by all the practical information you could need for every step of your journey.

The best ready-made routes for different interests and themes at the beginning of each title

Usable, highly practical guidance on walking, driving and touring in the destination, with all routes backed up by full-colour, in-depth maps

Find out where to stop for refreshments along the way, plus find restaurant, accommodation and nightlife listings in the Directory

Practical travel information includes when to go, getting there, getting around, entry requirements, local language, health guidance and much more

Each route features insights into local history and culture, with quirky tips to help you get the best out of the destination

Colour-coded detailed maps with key sights and refreshment stops marked up by number and corresponding to the routes

Beautiful, inspirational full-colour photography throughout brings the destination to life and makes the book a memorable souvenir of a trip

Printed on paper from responsible sources verified to meet FSC’s strict environmental and social standards

Free eBook with each purchased printed guide

Format: 117 x 194mm

Price: £8.99 | $12.99

Extent: 112–144 pages

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Toronto Travel Guide

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

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More Destinations

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

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When’s the best time to go to Toronto?

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

How to get around Toronto

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

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

Can’t miss things to do in Toronto

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

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

Food and drink to try in Toronto

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

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

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

Culture in Toronto

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

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

Local travel tips for Toronto

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

Local Resources

• Toronto Life
• See Toronto Now
• Destination Toronto’s Ambassadors

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Travel reviews

• Worth the detour

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

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

THE SHORES OF LAKE ONTARIO

RIPLEY’S AQUARIUM OF CANADA

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

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

Harbourfront Center

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

The Toronto Islands

Ontario Place

Toronto Dominion Center

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

Hockey Hall of Fame

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

100 Queen Street West, Toronto

Eaton Center

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

ART GALLERY OF ONTARIO

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

BATA SHOE MUSEUM

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

ROYAL ONTARIO MUSEUM

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

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

ONTARIO SCIENCE CENTRE

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

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

TORONTO ZOO

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

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

Optional activities

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

Where to eat

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

SEVEN LIVES ($)

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

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

AMSTERDAM BREWHOUSE ($$)

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

Open daily from 11 a.m.

Momofuku Noodle Bar ($$-$$$)

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

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

RICHMOND STATION ($$-$$$)

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

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

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

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

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

Canoe ($$$$)

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

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

*** Hours may vary ***

Where to sleep .

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

Festivals calendar

Toronto jazz festival.

Dates: June 24 to July 3, 2022

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

Pride Toronto

Dates: end of June 2022

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

Toronto Caribbean Carnival

Dates: late July / early August 2022

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

When to visit

• Very Favourable
• Unfavourable

the anthill

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

Unavoidable

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Toronto Travel Guide 2024 Edition : The ultimate Guide To Explore Toronto For First time and seasoned traveler (The update Travel Guide To Explore Canada in 2024 and beyond Book 1) Kindle Edition

• 🌍 Uncover the hidden gems: Dive beyond the touristy spots to discover Toronto's secret treasures.
• 🍁 Local Insights: Get insider tips and recommendations from Toronto locals for an authentic experience.
• 📸 Visual Delight: Stunning visuals and captivating descriptions bring the city to life on every page.
• 🌈 Diverse Perspectives: Embrace the multicultural essence of Toronto through diverse perspectives and narratives
• 🍽️ Culinary Journey: Indulge in Toronto's culinary delights with curated lists of street food, fine dining, and vegan options.
• 🏰 Neighborhoods Unveiled: Immerse yourself in the unique vibes of neighborhoods like Kensington Market and Distillery District.
• 🎭 Cultural Experiences: From museums to live music, delve into Toronto's rich cultural tapestry with exciting recommendations.
• 🌆 Top Attractions: Unmissable landmarks like the CN Tower come to life with engaging insights and practical tips.
• 🚗 Easy Travel: Streamlined information on getting around, accommodation options, and practical resources.
• 🌆 Unparalleled City Exploration: "Beneath the Toronto Sky" is not just a guide; it's your passport to an immersive Toronto adventure.
• 🤩 Tailored Experiences: Personalized recommendations cater to various preferences, ensuring a journey that suits you.
• 📚 Updated Insights: Stay in the know with the latest information for 2024, making your trip both current and memorable.
• 🌐 Digital Companion: Accessible anytime, anywhere, this guide is your digital companion for a stress-free exploration.
• 🌈 Memorable Moments: Create unforgettable memories with a guide that transforms every moment into an experience.
• Book 1 of 5 The update Travel Guide To Explore Canada in 2024 and beyond
• Print length 145 pages
• Language English
• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publication date January 4, 2024
• File size 1217 KB
• Page Flip Enabled
• Word Wise Enabled
• Enhanced typesetting Enabled
• See all details

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Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CRN3T97V
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ January 4, 2024
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 1217 KB
• Simultaneous device usage ‏ : ‎ Unlimited
• Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
• Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 145 pages
• #18 in Ontario Travel
• #28 in Toronto Travel Guides
• #33 in Alberta & British Columbia Travel

About the author

Carlton b. maynard.

Dr. Carlton B. Maynard, an esteemed travel guide publisher, holds a Ph.D. in Cultural Anthropology, specializing in the study of global tourism patterns and cultural interactions.

With an academic foundation stemming from a Master's degree in Tourism Management and a Bachelor's in Cultural Studies, Carlton's expertise in understanding the intricacies of various cultures has seamlessly intertwined with his practical experience as a travel guide publisher.

His comprehensive knowledge, combined with years of traversing diverse landscapes, has uniquely shaped his authored works, providing readers with a rich tapestry of cultural insight and practical travel guidance.

Carlton's publications stand as a testament to his commitment to unraveling the complexities of global travel and sharing the beauty of cultural diversity.

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

Best Time to Visit

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

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

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Ontario Tourbook Guide

Including toronto, ottawa and niagara falls.

Explore the Canadian province of Ontario with the AAA TourBook guide. From the thundering beauty of Niagara Falls to the ethnically diverse city of Toronto, the province offers a wide range of experiences for every type of traveler. Plan your next trip with the help of AAA's TourBook travel guide, available now on mobile, tablet or desktop.

With the Ontario guide, you'll get advice from AAA travel experts about the best things to see and do, where to stay and how to plan the trip of a lifetime. You'll learn insider travel tips and answers to many top questions asked by travelers. This guidebook includes information about the best things to do in Toronto, Ottawa, Niagara Falls and other top cities in Ontario.

Here's a sampling of what you'll find in the Ontario TourBook:

• Which city has one of the largest displays of lilacs in the world
• What to see on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls
• How to visit the Cold War-era Diefenbunker, built in case of a nuclear crisis
• When to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Ottawa's Parliament Hill
• Which Cochrane attraction features rescued polar bears
• What to see at the African Lion Safari drive-through park
• How to explore dozens of shipwrecks at Fathom Five National Marine Park
• Why Toronto's CN Tower is worth a visit
• Where to camp, hike and fish in Canada's provincial parks

What are some of the must-dos covered in this guide?

We know no two travelers are alike, so we've included a wide variety of things to do in each TourBook, from museums and sightseeing tours to theme parks and gardens.

We cover the top things to do in Toronto including the CN Tower (one of the world's tallest buildings), Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, the Toronto Zoo and the Hockey Hall of Fame. You'll also find listings for popular attractions in Niagara Falls like the Journey Behind the Falls boat ride and Hornblower Niagara Cruises, as well as places to visit in Ottawa such as the Parliament Buildings and the National Gallery of Canada.

All these attractions and more are covered in this destination guide, plus ideas for family-friendly things to do and places to stay.

Will this guide help me plan a road trip?

Yes, this digital TourBook includes inspiration for scenic drives in Ontario. You can also use the high-quality maps to get started planning your own route.

Is national park and provincial park information included?

The Ontario tour book includes detailed information and travel tips for the top public parks in Ontario including Algonquin Provincial Park, Bruce Peninsula National Park, Thousand Islands National Park, Point Pelee National Park and more. You'll also find travel information about national historic sites throughout the region.

Explore the Ontario AAA TourBook and start planning your next travel adventure today!

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