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About this guide
Known for its multicultural neighborhoods, Toronto, Canada offers a rich tapestry of cultural landmarks, historical sites, and a dynamic arts and culinary scene. From the African-Canadian heritage at the Ontario Science Centre to the lively festivals celebrating the largest multicultural population in the world, there’s something for everyone. Toronto is not just a city—it’s a cultural mosaic that invites travelers to discover its unique and inclusive charm. As a major cultural and entertainment hub, Toronto venues range from intimate jazz clubs to large concert halls hosting world-renowned artists. Every corner of the Queen City offers a new adventure in culture, cuisine, and community.
- Best time to travel: May to August (peak season), October to March (off-season), April and September (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Eastern Time Zone (ET)
- Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD, C$)
- Language: English, French, and others
- Noteworthy: Kuumba Festival (January), Toronto Black Film Festival (February), Afrofest (July), Toronto Caribbean Carnival (August),
- Best for: Urban Explorers, Multicultural Foodies, Outdoor Nature Lovers, Art and Music Aficionados
Get Away: Getting To And Around Toronto, Canada
By Air
Located 15 miles from downtown, the Toronto Pearson International Airport offers a range of direct flights from major cities around the world to the city’s primary international gateway. For a more convenient entry into the city, travelers can also fly into Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, which is even closer to downtown and offers domestic and select international routes.
By Car
Toronto’s Gardiner Expressway and Don Valley Parkway are key routes that connect different parts of the city and surrounding areas. Traffic can get congested during peak hours on the highways and main roads, so consider parking in designated downtown areas.
By Public Transit
Toronto's convenient Toronto Transit Commission public transit system includes the subway, streetcar, and bus routes to major neighborhoods. For seamless travel, consider using a PRESTO card for frequent service, easy connections, and efficient fare across all TTC services.
Explore Toronto, Canada On Foot
Stroll through popular areas like the Distillery District or Queen Street West to enjoy local shops, cafes, and street art. Exploring the Hogtown city on foot means sightseeing the gorgeous waterfront paths like Lake Ontario and the Toronto Islands. A trip to Toronto means connecting with the vibes on the street, from live music to green parks to multicultural markets.
Quick facts
Eastern Time Zone (ET)
Canadian Dollar (CAD, C$)
English, French
Good For
Urban Explorers
Multicultural Foodies
Outdoor Nature Lovers
Art and Music Aficionados
Keep in mind
- Kuumba Festival (January)
- Toronto Black Film Festival (February)
- Afrofest (July)
- Toronto Caribbean Carnival (August)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Toronto, Canada
Canada’s premier steakhouse experience, Black + Blue, is where classic tradition meets modern energy with Kobe Beef certification. Indulge in a three-course menu with the world’s rarest cuts and table side Caesar salads or weekend brunch with mimosa carts.
Madrina Bar y Tapas serves classic and contemporary Spanish tapas like paella, chorizo ibérico, and truffled Manchego cheese dishes. Choose to pair flavorful bites with over 70 gins and an impressive imported wine list complementing Toronto’s rich culinary traditions.
Alo Restaurant and Cocktail Bar sits in downtown Toronto, where contemporary French cuisine meets international inspiration made with seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a blind multi-course tasting menu or a six-course tasting menu, with a cocktail reception featuring sparkling wine and canapés.
A Toronto culinary staple for 29 years, New Orleans Seafood and Steakhouse shares Southern charm and Canadian hospitality. Enjoy Cajun-Creole flavors like bold blackened steaks with a smoky crust, freshly caught seafood dishes, and locally sourced farm-to-table produce.
For a fresh-made breakfast or classic brunch, Sunset Grill offers favorites like pancakes, French toast, omelets, burgers, salads, and more. It’s the perfect spot to start the day or get a pick-me-up of a satisfying and delicious meal in Toronto.
With Toronto's best authentic French pastries crafted by Chef Marc Tournayre, Jules Café Pâtisserie is the sweet tooth hotspot. The menu offers sweet treats like chocolate bread and brioches, alongside savory options like croque-monsieur, quiches, and sandwiches.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Toronto, Canada
Take the Toronto Islands Morning Bike Tour to explore North America's largest car-free community with panoramic skyline views across the Inner Harbour. The guided 3.5-hour tour includes bike rentals, helmets, and snacks as guests visit iconic landmarks like the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse.
The Niagara On The Lake, Winery, and Chocolate Day Tour combines a scenic drive to eat chocolate and drink award-winning wines. Guests ride through Niagara Wine Country to indulge in samples from a local chocolate factory tour and five exceptional wines, including Niagara’s famous Icewine.
Witness the natural beauty of Canada’s oldest Algonquin Provincial Park Day Tour with activities like canoeing, hiking, and snowshoeing. This small-group tour is perfect for active travelers and groups looking for a refreshing escape from the busy city.
Visit the CN Tower to experience an exhilarating hands-free journey around the Tower’s exterior 116 stories high on the EdgeWalk. Eat at 360 Restaurant and see breathtaking horizons and nighttime illuminations at the highest observation platform in the Western Hemisphere.
The three buildings at St. Lawrence Market—the South Market, North Market, and St. Lawrence Hall—make it a central spot for local commerce. The Farmers' Market has over 120 specialty vendors with everything from fresh produce to artisanal baked goods in a multicultural setting.
Experience one of North America's most enchanting attractions at Casa Loma, complete with historic estate gardens and modern amenities. There's a Backstage Celebrity Gallery, The Gardens of Casa Loma restaurant, and sophisticated events at outdoor venues and cutting-edge theater.
This World Food Tour explores some of Toronto’s top-rated food hotspots serving diverse dishes, drinks, and snacks from various cultures. This immersive Airbnb guided tour shares insightful stories about the culinary history of the multicultural neighborhoods.
Take a day off at Miraj Hammam Spa for an authentic experience with traditional Hammam and Gommage full body treatments. The luxurious services include a spa concierge for personalized bookings, massages, facials, and more rejuvenating remedies.
