Toronto

Travel Guide

Toronto which includes a bay or harbor, a sunset and a city
Toronto which includes a high rise building, a city and night scenes
Nathan Phillips Square featuring night scenes, signage and snow skiing
Toronto Entertainment District which includes a city
Old Town showing a city and street scenes as well as a large group of people

Make yourself at home in Toronto, where a dynamic mix of big-city attractions and characterful neighborhoods welcome you in and invite you to explore.

Reflected in the glittering water of Lake Ontario, Toronto’s striking skyline creates a dramatic impression. Landmarks like the CN Tower, which soars to a whopping 1,815 feet (553 meters) and the Rogers Centre, home of the Toronto Blue Jays, stand out against an impressive backdrop of skyscrapers, a sign of Toronto’s rise from sleepy provincial capital to a renowned hub of business, dining and entertainment. But look closer, and you’ll see that vibrantly global Toronto still has plenty of local charm, from quaint neighborhoods of Victorian houses to multicultural enclaves.

The best areas for accommodation in Toronto

To make the most of the city’s exciting attractions, look for hotels in the Entertainment District, a great place to stay in Toronto for first-timers. Packed with sporting and live music venues like the Scotiabank Arena, this neighborhood truly lives up to its name. Major landmarks are also within easy walking distance. For a vacation in Toronto with a touch of history and access to delicious dining, Old Town is another good choice.

West Queen West and Kensington Market are some of the best places to stay in Toronto for couples. Lively and artsy, these areas combine a neighborhood feel with delicious food, trendy bars and unique shops and galleries. West Queen West has even been called one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world. Picturesque Yorkville could also win you over if you’re looking for fine dining and luxury plus historic charm.

Centrally located and within walking distance of attractions, Harbourfront is one of the best places for families to stay in Toronto. Catch a musical in the Entertainment District or soak up the sun at Sugar Beach and then stroll along the shore of Lake Ontario. For a kid-friendly boardwalk and a small-town feel, The Beaches is a great option farther east.

Best time to visit Toronto

  • Spring (March to May): Visit Toronto in spring to admire pink cherry blossoms in spots like High Park and Cedarvale Park, and enjoy mild weather with fewer crowds.
  • Summer (June to August): Summer sees the city in full swing, with bustling streets and festivals including Pride Toronto and the Toronto Jazz Festival. Hotels can be busy, so booking ahead is preferable. 
  • Fall (September to November): Fall is one of the best times to visit Toronto, with autumnal color and mild weather usually into October.
  • Winter (December to February): Winter is cold and often snowy, but there’s still plenty to do, from seasonal skating rinks to events like DesignTO Festival.

How many days to spend in Toronto

Explore Old Toronto’s city center in two to three days. Extend your Toronto visit to four to five days to fully appreciate the diversity of Toronto’s neighborhoods and attractions. With a week or more, you can add on a day trip to stunning Niagara Falls or scenic Niagara-on-the-Lake.

The vibe of Toronto

Known as one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with over 150 languages spoken by its residents, Toronto feels at once cosmopolitan and approachable. Each of Toronto’s many neighborhoods has a unique personality, from quirky cool to Victorian elegance. Explore the mouthwatering cuisine and cultural heritage of Toronto’s many immigrant communities as you eat your way across town, from Polish enclave Roncesvalles to The Danforth, home to one of the largest Greek neighborhoods in North America. For a calm retreat from the bustle, enjoy a peaceful stroll on the shores of Lake Ontario, or watch the sunset over the city’s skyline from Trillium Park.

What is Toronto famous for?

Toronto’s ties to the film industry and its popularity as a shooting location have earned it the nickname “Hollywood North.” Though its skyline is iconic in its own right, Toronto has stood in for cities like Baltimore in The Shape of Water, Boston in Good Will Hunting and even Chicago in Chicago. Toronto’s lively performing arts scene features one of the largest English-language Theatre Districts in the world and a number of theater festivals, including Toronto Fringe Festival and the Shaw Festival in nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake. For sports fans, Toronto is home to the most American professional league teams in Canada, including the Blue Jays (MLB), Raptors (NBA) and Maple Leafs (NHL), as well as soccer, lacrosse and Canadian football teams.

Events in Toronto

From international film festivals to agricultural fairs, Toronto hosts a dazzling array of events. Toronto International Film Festival (September) and Hot Docs International Documentary Film Festival (April-May) draw global talent, while Toronto Black Film Festival (February) and Inside Out Film Festival (May-June) showcase bold new filmmakers. In September, Toronto International Festival of Authors and Word on the Street Festival bring the written word to life. Revel in Toronto’s diversity at Toronto Pride (June), Toronto Caribbean Carnival (August), Oktoberfest (October) and KUUMBA (February). And celebrate Canadian agriculture and crafts at the Canadian National Exhibition (August-September) or the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair (November).

Top attractions in Toronto

Start your trip at the CN Tower, one of the tallest freestanding structures in the world and one of the best things to do in Toronto for first-timers. Take in the view from the LookOut Level, or brave the EdgeWalk 116 stories above the ground for a truly unique experience. Enjoy a live performance in the Entertainment District or check out an exhibit, film or festival at the Harbourfront Centre.

Toronto’s Distillery District is packed with things to do for couples. Once home to one of the largest distilleries in North America, this formerly industrial neighborhood is now a pedestrian-only complex, packed with historic charm, restaurants, bars and one-of-a-kind galleries. Take a walking tour and spirits tasting to learn about the distillery’s role in Prohibition, or commemorate your trip by adding a padlock to the love locks installation.

There are tons of activities for families in Toronto. Explore hands-on learning through the interactive exhibits at the Royal Ontario Museum. Marvel at the diversity of Canada’s landscapes in miniature at Little Canada. A short ferry ride from Harbourfront, Centre Island’s Centreville Amusement Park is perfect for younger children, while older kids will love the more than 200 attractions at Canada’s Wonderland.

Canada’s most populated city is a diverse cultural destination with world-class museums, concerts, family entertainment, sports venues and craft beers.

Visit a museum, taste aromatic craft beers, enjoy a festival, check out the music scene or explore Lake Ontario and the Toronto Islands in this pleasant Canadian city.

Toronto has always been an international destination of choice. Settled by the British in the 18th century, it has attracted immigrants for years. Today, almost three million people represent 200 ethnic groups and speak over 130 languages and dialects. Experience the city’s multicultural diversity in the neighborhoods of Chinatown Toronto, Greektown, Kensington Market and Little Italy Toronto.

Many attractions are within reach of Toronto’s well-connected public transportation system. If you’d rather walk, follow the PATH Underground Shopping Mall: 17 miles (28 kilometers) of subterranean walkways and retail outlets in and around downtown Toronto.

Visit heritage buildings and cultural exhibits at Yorkville and the Distillery District. Relax in High Park and the Toronto Botanical Garden or dare walking the 1,168-feet (356-meters) high EdgeWalk around the outside of the CN Tower. Watch baseball and football matches at the Rogers Centre and take a photo with the Stanley Cup at the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Enter the architecturally remarkable Royal Ontario Museum, Casa Loma and Art Gallery of Ontario to view local artifacts and international art. Browse the fashion stores at Toronto Eaton Centre or shop for fresh produce and curiosa at St. Lawrence Market. Toronto Zoo and Canada’s Wonderland are great for family days out.

Toronto’s winters are usually very cold and summers can sometimes be hot. Year-round, the Harbourfront Centre hosts cultural events, including the SING! Toronto Vocal Arts Festival and a Caribbean Carnival.

Make the 90-minute trip to Niagara Falls or travel along Yonge Street, one of the world’s longest roads, which stretches from Lake Ontario though the Canadian wilderness to Lake Simcoe.

Each year, 21 million people visit the city. Toronto’s International Airport receives direct flights from many countries. The city’s setting on Lake Ontario, one of the Great Lakes, combined with its diverse culture, explains why Toronto is so popular.

Where to stay in Toronto

Downtown Toronto featuring a city, an administrative buidling and heritage architecture

Downtown Toronto

4.5/5(4,700 area reviews)

Dive into the bustling Entertainment District with its lively restaurants, nightclubs, and live theatre, or explore the upscale Yorkville area, boasting designer boutiques and world-class galleries. Don't miss the iconic Royal Ontario Museum and the revitalized Harbourfront area.

Downtown Toronto
Toronto Botanical Garden showing a garden

North York

3.5/5(282 area reviews)

Home to interactive museums like Ontario Science Centre and Aga Khan Museum, North York offers ample shopping at Yorkdale Shopping Centre and Fairview Mall. Easily accessible via TTC subway and bus lines.

North York
Toronto Zoo featuring a playground and rides as well as a large group of people

Scarborough

3.5/5(130 area reviews)

Situated atop Scarborough Bluffs, this diverse district offers shopping at Scarborough Town Centre and animal encounters at Toronto Zoo. Explore natural landmarks like Rouge Park and the Scarborough Bluffs, or hop on the TTC for easy transit access.

Scarborough
Etobicoke featuring street scenes

Etobicoke

4/5(855 area reviews)

Suburban and industrialized, Etobicoke boasts numerous parks like James Gardens and Centennial Park, as well as golf courses such as St. George's Golf and Country Club. Enjoy convenient public transportation via TTC and GO stations.

Etobicoke
Casa Loma featuring heritage architecture and a fountain

Old Toronto

Boasting a high population density, this area is home to multiple post-secondary institutions like Toronto Metropolitan University and OCAD University. Enjoy the vibrant academic atmosphere and easy access to renowned hospitals.

Old Toronto
CN Tower which includes general coastal views, a city and a high rise building

Toronto Entertainment District

Downtown Toronto's vibrant hub features theatres, performing arts centres, and Toronto Blue Jays games, with numerous bars and restaurants catering to diverse crowds. Don't miss the iconic CN Tower!

Toronto Entertainment District
Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

4 out of 5
33 Gerrard St W, Toronto, ON
$165 nightly
The price is $203 total per night from Aug 28 to Aug 29
$203 total
Aug 28 - Aug 29
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this 4-star eco-certified hotel in Toronto. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 indoor pools, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant in our ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (12,055 reviews)
"Our stay here was incredible. Everything was perfect (safe, SUPER convenient location, clean, etc.) and the check-in and check-out system (they have these self-serve machines so you don't have to wait in line or go up to the desk) was the most efficient and innovative thing I've ever experienced ..."

Reviewed on Aug 20, 2025

Chelsea Hotel, Toronto
Toronto Don Valley Hotel and Suites

Toronto Don Valley Hotel and Suites

3.5 out of 5
175 Wynford Drive, Toronto, ON
$110 nightly
The price is $135 total per night from Aug 28 to Aug 29
$135 total
Aug 28 - Aug 29
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this family-friendly hotel in Toronto. Enjoy free WiFi, an outdoor pool, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant ...
7.4/10 Good! (5,876 reviews)
"It was a very nice stay. Conveniently located and competitively priced."

Reviewed on Aug 21, 2025

Toronto Don Valley Hotel and Suites
Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre by IHG

3.5 out of 5
30 Carlton Street, Toronto, ON
$158 nightly
The price is $193 total per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
$193 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this 3.5-star eco-certified hotel in Toronto. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a fitness center. Our guests praise the restaurant and the ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (4,462 reviews)
"It will be our regular go too when we are in Toronto"

Reviewed on Aug 22, 2025

Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre by IHG
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
One King West Hotel & Residence

One King West Hotel & Residence

4 out of 5
1 King Street West, Toronto, ON
Stay at this 4-star eco-certified aparthotel in Toronto. Enjoy free WiFi, room service, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the restaurant and the bar in ...
9/10 Wonderful! (10,837 reviews)
"Friendly staff great location and very nice rooms."

Reviewed on Aug 21, 2025

One King West Hotel & Residence
Residence & Conference Centre - Toronto

Residence & Conference Centre - Toronto

2.5 out of 5
1760 Finch Avenue East, Toronto, ON
Book a stay at this family-friendly aparthotel in Toronto. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,100 reviews)
"It was a clean, air conditioned, no frills, no fuss dormitory. I stayed for 2 nights on a quiet floor; the kids at the front desk were polite and helpful. my only complain is the fact that they didn’t clean the room the 2nd day. I recommend it to anyone on a budget visiting Toronto"

Reviewed on Aug 20, 2025

Residence & Conference Centre - Toronto
Panorama Suites Downtown Toronto

Panorama Suites Downtown Toronto

4 out of 5
251 Jarvis St, Toronto, ON
Stay at this 4-star aparthotel in Toronto. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and a garden. Popular attractions CF Toronto Eaton Centre and Scotiabank Arena ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (459 reviews)
"The apt was very clean and modern, the concierge was very helpful and friendly! I will definitley be back!"

Reviewed on Aug 22, 2025

Panorama Suites Downtown Toronto
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Things to do

Food in Toronto

Toronto’s food scene is as diverse as the city itself, defined more by endless variety than by one signature dish. A sizable Chinatown and communities from across Asia, however, make all varieties of Asian food perennially popular. Indulge in Japanese bites and drinks at a stylish restaurant in Little Tokyo, or savor Tibetan-style dumplings with a momo (dumpling) crawl in Little Tibet. Toronto’s fine dining has been widely recognized, and Toronto was the first city in Canada to be a Michelin Guide destination. Delicious local produce gives Toronto’s global cuisine a local spin. Sample some of the area’s finest artisanal foods at St. Lawrence Market and the Saturday Farmers Market at Evergreen Brick Works.

Nightlife in Toronto

From rooftop bars to underground lounges, Toronto’s nightlife has you covered. Catch a show or dance all night at a nightclub in the Entertainment District, or go from rooftop bars to classy cocktail lounges along King Street West. For intimate speakeasies and quirky dive bars, follow buzzy Queen Street West through West Queen West and Parkdale. Next to the University of Toronto, the Annex draws a young crowd to its pubs and live music venues. Church-Wellesley Village is the center of LGBTQ+ nightlife in Toronto, including Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, one of the longest-running queer theater companies in the world.

Shopping in Toronto

Toronto is studded with unique shops and boutiques selling everything from luxury fashion to locally made gifts. The Eaton Centre on Yonge Street has over 200 shops and restaurants so you’re sure to find something to take home. Queen Street West is Old Toronto’s high street, with major retailers in the center of town giving way to trendy boutiques in West Queen West. Yorkville, with its charming Victorian houses, is also a luxury shopping destination, with a carefully curated selection of clothing and home goods. Keep an eye out for pop-up markets across the city, as they’re a fantastic way to score handmade crafts and vintage pieces.

Getting around Toronto

Navigating Toronto by public transportation is easy thanks to the city’s interconnected network of subways, streetcars and buses. If you plan to travel Toronto widely, pick up a pay-as-you-go PRESTO card or pay by app. PRESTO’s two-hour transfer lets you hop on and off as much as you like. Many neighborhoods are very walkable, some incorporating greenways to make roads more bike- and pedestrian-friendly. Taxis and rideshares are also available.

Toronto currency and budget

Plan to tip about 15%-20% for meals in Toronto, with a dollar or two per drink for bartenders. Prices for hotels vary, with summer being the peak Toronto tourism season. The city has plenty of options for food and drink at all price points. For entertainment on a budget, many theaters offer day-of rush tickets. Plan to budget approximately $150-$250 USD for accommodations, food, transportation and activities for a mid-range Toronto vacation. Here’s what you can expect to pay for some common expenses:

  • A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant = $90.00 USD
  • A pint of domestic beer = $6.00 USD
  • A medium cappuccino = $4.00 USD
  • A meal at an inexpensive restaurant = $19.00 USD

* Prices are provided for informational purposes and are subject to change.

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