Toronto - Discovering Canada

Travelling to Toronto

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Toronto, a pretty good destination in Canada (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Toronto and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Toronto, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Canada, here's everything to know about Toronto for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Toronto

Toronto is the most populous city in Canada, with a population of over 2.7 million people. It is located on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario and is considered the financial, commercial, and cultural capital of Canada. It is a multicultural city with a diverse population that speaks over 180 languages. Toronto is known for its iconic CN Tower, which stands at 553m tall and offers stunning views of the city skyline. It is also home to several world-class museums, galleries, and attractions such as the Royal Ontario Museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario, and the Toronto Islands. Additionally, Toronto is a food lover's paradise, with a wide range of restaurants serving a variety of cuisines from all over the world, as well as numerous street markets and food festivals throughout the year.

What to visit in Toronto

1. CN Tower – The CN Tower is an iconic tower in Toronto with a height of 553.33 meters. It has an observation deck that offers breathtaking views of the city.
2. Royal Ontario Museum – The Royal Ontario Museum is a museum that showcases important collections of art, culture, and natural history. You'll see amazing dinosaur fossils, mesmerizing crystals, ancient Egyptian artifacts, and many other fascinating exhibits.
3. Ripley's Aquarium of Canada – This aquarium has a number of exhibits showcasing aquatic life from all around the world. The aquarium is home to over 16,000 marine animals, including freshwater fish, sharks, and stingrays.
4. Toronto Islands – The Toronto Islands comprise a chain of small islands located in Lake Ontario. They offer visitors an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and are popular for cycling, picnicking, and beach-going.
5. St. Lawrence Market – St. Lawrence Market is a world-renowned market that features over 120 vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, meat, and fish.
6. Art Gallery of Ontario – The Art Gallery of Ontario is Canada's premier art museum, with collections that feature art spanning from the 1st century to contemporary times.
7. Casa Loma – Casa Loma is a Gothic Revival-style mansion that was built in the early 20th century. The mansion features lavish interiors, secret passages, and incredible gardens.
8. Toronto Zoo – The Toronto Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world, with over 450 species of animals housed in various exhibits including Africa, Americas, Tundra Trek, Indo-Malaya, Australasia, and the Canadian Domain.
9. Hockey Hall of Fame – Hockey is Canada's national sport, and the Hockey Hall of Fame is a must-see attraction for any hockey fan. It features exhibits showcasing the history and evolution of the sport, as well as interactive experiences like shooting and goaltending simulations.
10. Distillery District – The Distillery District is a historic and pedestrian-only neighbourhood located in downtown Toronto. The district is known for its brick-lined streets and Victorian-era buildings that have been repurposed into trendy restaurants, bars, shops, and galleries.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Canada, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Toronto.

When to go on holiday to Toronto

The best time to visit Toronto depends on what you are looking for in terms of weather and activities. If you enjoy the warm weather, then the best time to visit Toronto is from June to August, where the temperatures are typically in the mid-20s Celsius (70-80 Fahrenheit) and the city is bustling with outdoor activities.
However, if you prefer cooler temperatures and wish to save money, the best time to visit Toronto is from September to November. During this time, the city isn't packed with tourists, and the temperature is typically in the range of 10-15 Celsius (50-60 Fahrenheit), making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring the city.
Winter in Toronto, from December to February, can be quite cold with temperatures often dipping below freezing. If you enjoy winter activities, this would be the best time to visit as you can go skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating. Generally, the shoulder season (late spring and early fall) to visit Toronto when the weather is pleasant, and the prices are reasonable. So, plan your trip accordingly based on your preferences and interests.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Toronto

There are several ways to reach Toronto. Here are some options: 1. By plane: Toronto has two major airports: Toronto Pearson International Airport and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport. Both airports are well-connected to domestic and international destinations.
2. By train: VIA Rail Canada operates from coast to coast and connects major Canadian cities, including Toronto. Toronto has several train stations, with Union Station being the main hub.
3. By bus: Many bus companies operate in Toronto and connect it to other Canadian cities and the United States. The main bus terminal is located at Bay Street.
4. By car: Toronto is well-connected by highways and can be easily accessed by car. If you are driving from the United States, there are several border crossings from New York, Michigan, and other states.
I hope this information is helpful in planning your trip to Toronto!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Toronto, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Toronto

Sure, here are some typical foods of Toronto along with a short description: 1. Peameal Bacon Sandwich: A sandwich made with peameal bacon, which is cured pork loin rolled in cornmeal. It's a popular breakfast item in Toronto.
2. Poutine: A dish made with French fries, cheese curds, and gravy. It's a classic Canadian dish that originated in Quebec and is now popular all over Canada, including Toronto.
3. Butter Tarts: Small pastries filled with butter, sugar, and eggs. They're a Canadian classic that originated in Ontario.
4. Nanaimo Bars: A dessert made with a base layer of wafer or graham cracker crumbs, a layer of custard or pudding, and a layer of chocolate.
5. Roti: A Caribbean flatbread that's often stuffed with curried meat or vegetables. It's a popular street food in Toronto.
6. Bagels: Toronto has a vibrant Jewish community, and its bagels are known for being smaller, denser, and sweeter than New York-style bagels.
7. Ketchup Chips: A snack food that's unique to Canada, ketchup chips are potato chips covered in a tomato-based seasoning that tastes like ketchup.
8. BeaverTails: A flat pastry that's shaped like a beaver tail and traditionally topped with cinnamon and sugar, chocolate, or other sweet toppings. It's a popular dessert in Toronto.
You can find general info about typical foods in Canada here.

Is Toronto an expensive destination for tourists?

Toronto can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists compared to other cities in Canada. The cost of accommodations, food, and entertainment tends to be higher than in some other Canadian cities. However, there are ways to save money when visiting Toronto, such as staying in budget-friendly accommodations, taking advantage of public transportation, and dining at affordable and local restaurants. It is important to research and plan ahead to ensure you can comfortably budget for your trip to Toronto.

Where to find accomodation in Toronto

To explore Toronto, it is best to find accommodations in the downtown area, particularly in the neighborhoods of Entertainment District, Financial District, or Yorkville. These areas are in close proximity to some of the top attractions like the CN Tower, Roy Thomson Hall, The Royal Ontario Museum, and The Art Gallery of Ontario. Additionally, they offer easy access to public transportation, including subways and streetcars, which makes it convenient to explore the city further.
You can check hotel prices at Toronto here:
Booking.com

Is Toronto a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Toronto is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The city has a relatively low crime rate compared to other major cities in North America. However, like any major city, visitors should take sensible precautions and be aware of their surroundings, especially at night. It is also recommended to avoid certain neighborhoods known for higher crime rates, such as Jane and Finch or Regent Park. Overall, visitors to Toronto can feel safe and enjoy their trip with common sense and precautions.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Canada here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Toronto.

What type of travelers will enjoy Toronto the most?

Toronto is a great destination for all types of travelers, as it offers a variety of attractions that can cater to everyone's interests. Couples will enjoy the city's romantic atmosphere, scenic skyline views, and the numerous dining and entertainment options. They can take a romantic stroll along the Harbourfront or visit the CN Tower and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city from the top.
Young people looking for fun will be delighted with the vibrant nightlife scene in Toronto, which includes trendy bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. They can also check out the hip neighborhoods of Kensington Market and Queen West for unique shopping and food experiences.
Families will have a great time in Toronto as there are plenty of attractions suitable for children, such as the Toronto Zoo, the Ontario Science Centre, and the Ripley's Aquarium of Canada. They can also enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in the nearby parks or visiting the nearby Niagara Falls.
In summary, Toronto is a city that has something for everyone, no matter what their interests may be.

How to get around Toronto

There are several transportation options to move around Toronto: - Subway: Toronto has a subway system called the TTC which covers most of the city.
- Bus: The TTC also operates buses that can get you to places not covered by the subway.
- Streetcar: Toronto has streetcars that run on a number of lines in the downtown core and surrounding areas.
- Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Toronto and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.
- Ride-sharing: Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available in Toronto.
- Bike: Toronto has a bike share program called Bike Share Toronto that allows you to rent bikes throughout the city.
- Walking: Toronto is a very walkable city, and many neighborhoods and attractions are within walking distance of each other.

What to see around Toronto

Here are some great destinations for a day trip from Toronto: 1. Niagara Falls: One of the most famous natural wonders in the world and only two hours' drive from Toronto.
2. Stratford: A charming town with beautiful architecture, delicious restaurants, and theaters renowned for world-class productions 3. Algonquin Provincial Park: A stunning wilderness getaway, having more than 2000 freshwater lakes and miles of hiking trails.
4. Prince Edward County: This small island is a perfect day trip from Toronto for people who love wine as the county is home to over 40 wineries.
5. Kingston: This town has a rich cultural and historical significance having many museums, parks and a lot of shopping destinations.\ 6. Blue Mountains: A perfect place for an adventurous day trip from Toronto for winter sports enthusiasts. It is a famous ski resort with 36 trails.
7. Canada’s Wonderland: A fun-packed destination that has over 200 attractions.famous for thrilling roller coasters and exciting water rides.
8. Elora: A quaint village famous for its stunning nature and outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and fishing.
9. Thousand Islands: An archipelago consisting of about 1,800 islands, offering boat tours and water activities.
I hope that helps!
For every travel information about Canada you can click here.

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