Welcome to my home city! Leave the tourists behind and do Toronto the way a local would with our complete guide!
From this guide, you'll get to know the city and learn what to expect:
✅ The Basics - When to Travel, Currency, Safety, & Useful Apps
✈️ Traveling - To, from and around Toronto
📍 Must-See Attractions
🏡 What to see & expect around Toronto's neighborhoods
🗺️ Complete List: Parks, Cafes, Restaurants & Shopping
🏨 Accommodation Recommendations
🎟️ Recommended Tours
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During the summer months of course! From May to September the weather will be very pleasant for a visit and free from snow!
Temperatures from June to August can regularly hit 30*c. Some notable times that bring the city alive are:
Canada Day - July 1st: Wear your red & white and join us outdoors for a BBQ and fireworks at night!
CNE - Last 2 weeks in August - Located on the Exhibition grounds west of downtown, the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) provides both locals and tourists plenty of activities, live events, and exhibits.
How long to stay? For a visit to Toronto, there are endless things to see and do. Tourists to the city will find 4-7 days an ideal length of time to see the city.
🚨 Safety:
Canada is generally tops when it comes to safety, and as far as major cities go, Toronto is one of the safest in North America. Especially within the downtown core, tourists should feel safe walking around at all times.
Some areas such as Moss Park and Regent Park are considered 'sketchy' and are home to larger homeless populations. Anything threatening tends to be isolated within the parks and doesn't spread into the surroundings. At night these would be two areas to exercise some extra caution.
As with most other cities tourist frequent, petty crimes such as scams and pick-pocketing do exist, so exercise caution and keep valuables close, especially on the Subway.
If you need emergency assistance, 911 is the emergency line, and 311 is the non-emergency line.
💵 Money:
For a typical day in Toronto minus accommodations, so 2 meals, a treat, and ticketed sightseeing, people can expect to spend around $150 per person.
Currency: The Canadian Dollar (CAD) is the only accepted currency. It's roughly $1.30-1.40 = $1 USD.Cash: Most shops, vendors, restaurants, etc, will accept Cards (With Tap!) & Apple/Google Pay.
Although cash isn't widely used, a few $5/10/20 bills for tips or the rare cash-only spot will be useful.
Exchanging money: At Pearson airport upon arrival will be your best bet. Although cash isn't widely used, it's useful to have a few $5/10/20 bills for tips or the rare cash-only spot.
Any of the major banks (CIBC/TD/Royal Bank/BMO/Scotiabank) will have ATMs where you can exchange money using a debit card.
Tips: Like the rest of North America, tips are the norm.
A general rule of thumb can be:
0-5% on smaller takeaway items. (ie: Coffee)
5-15% on larger takeaway items. (ie: Takeout diners)
15-25% on sit-down dinners, depending on the level of service and cost of the bill.
📱 Helpful Apps
Google or Apple Maps: These will get you around town by foot, transit, or car! They are also integrated into our transit system and can show the location and timetables for upcoming departures.
Presto: Presto is our local transit pass. The Android version of the app will let you purchase a free virtual card, which you can connect to a credit card and pay for transit with.
Uber or Lift: These rideshare apps will get you around the city with no issues, however rides can get pricey.
✈️ Traveling To, From and Around Toronto
✈️ Airports
Pearson Airport: Our main airport, is located about 30min Northwest of the city. This is where all long-haul flights arrive and depart from.
UP Express: Just a 25-minute trip, a cost of $12.50, and service from 5am-1am. It will be your key to getting to and from the downtown core. It arrives at Union Station with just a few stops in between, including Subway Line 2 at Bloor Station.
Billy Bishop: Also known as "The Island Airport", it is useful for city hopping around this region of North America. Porter Airlines is the main operator out of The Island, with flights to Chicago, New York, Montreal, and many others.
It can easily be accessed from the downtown core, at the base of Bathurst Street. Both the 511-Bathurst and 509-Harbourfront streetcar lines service the airport.
Flights to regional city's through Porter Airlines.
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🚆 Transit
Union Station: The center point for most of our transit system. It has access to every major route and transfer needed throughout the city.
Traveling to or from other cities using VIA Rail? Union Station will be the end-point for any of those trips, with easy access to Ottawa and Montreal.
TTC Subway Line 1: The North-South line originates at Union and acts as a U-shape, heading north to either Vaughn or North York up Yonge St.
TTC Subway Line 2: East-West down Bloor Street is accessible via Union using Line 1. These transfer stops are Bloor-Yonge and St.George.
Go Transit: Regional transit within the Greater Toronto Area (GTHA) can be accessed with GoTransit at Union Station (Some Lines at Exhibition, and GoBuses via the Union Station Bus Terminal).
Trips to Niagara Falls, are offered on the Lakeshore West GoLine.
The main train station for our regional transit agency, GoTransit, intercity connections with Via Rail, and the UP Express to Pearson Airport. Union also has connections to Subway Line 1, and Streetcar lines along the waterfront.
Connections through the GoTransit Lakeshore line (West) and Streetcar connections to the north and west side of the city, up routes like Spadina and Bathurst.
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🎫 Getting Around
Presto: As mentioned above, this is our local transit pass. You can 'Tap' on any TTC, GoTransit, or regional transit system all the way to Ottawa with this card!
They cost $4 and can be purchased at Pearson Airport, or from any Train or Subway station using a kiosk. At this time, a Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) fare costs $3.35, and is valid for any 2 hour period, even if you get off and back on of the vehicle!
You can also download the Presto App to your iOS or Android device and tap using the phones wallet.
GoTransit, our commuter rail system, functions slightly differently. You 'Tap' both when entering and exiting the Train, and the card will automatically judge how far you travel and charge you accordingly. (These trips can be anywhere from $5-$15 depending on distance)
Presto can also give you discounted access at plenty of restaurants and museums throughout the city. Those can also be viewed on the website.
The Toronto Bike Share network is truly an underrated gem of the city. Everything can be done from the app, and the network spans 9000+ bikes (Electric and Manual) and over 700+ stations around the city.A day pass can be had for as little as $15, idea for city explorers. Or the Pay-As-You-Go pass is $1 to unlock the bike, and a few cents each minute you ride. Especially in the summer, this is a fantastic way to get around the city!
One of the top things to do during the summer months, is see the Toronto Islands, these are accessed via the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal. Which has 3 routes, each taking about 15min to cross:Centre Island.Hanlan's Point.Ward's Island.
⛔ Tip: We do recommend not driving within the downtown core. Typically, it is faster to either walk or take transit. If a car is needed or desired, taking rideshare will be your best choice.
📍 Must-See Attractions
Event Schedule
The city constantly has festivals and events for all types of people, use the schedule to see whats going on during your visit to Toronto!
The iconic tower sits 553-metres tall, it was the tallest free-standing structure in the world until 2007. It features a glass floor (if you're brave enough), and panoramic views of the city. While everyone goes to the tower for the view up, the historical part of the trip up is worthwhile.
The famous market was voted as one of the best in the world. Locals in the neighborhood use the market, as it's a great place to get fresh and affordable fruits and veggies.
Carousel Bakery sells a peameal bacon sandwich, top it with some dijon mustard and enjoy!
Please note that this is one spot where cash is useful to have.
Kensington is a great spot for art lovers! The unique neighborhood draws in artists and tourists from all over to see its indie shops and hipster art boutiques.
The market houses some of Toronto's most popular food vendors, which gained prominence due to their association with the market.
Some recommendations inside the market:
Rasta Pasta.
Golden Patty.
Gus Tacos.
Top Gun Burger.
One of the few pedestrian areas in the city, The Distillery District is lined with cobblestone streets and brick buildings, all housing local art galleries, restaurants, and boutique shops.
It was once owned by Gooderham & Worts, which distilled whiskey out of the district. They also built the iconic Gooderham Flatiron Building at Front & Church.
The ROM focuses on World Cultures and natural history. Being one of the largest museums in North America, it boasts breathtaking dinosaur sculptures and endless exhibits from all corners of the globe.
A must for any art lover. Take in the countless year-round exhibits, or one of the exhibitions the AGO puts on throughout the year.
Art from artists such as Tom Thompson, James Tissot, and the Canadian Group of Seven can be found inside.
The cafe inside is a good place to refuel and overlook Dundas Street below.
The island offers a great escape from the bustling city, located a short ferry ride away.
The park is made up of several islands, all accessible from one another.
Centre Island: The most popular one, it has the Island amusement park, restaurants, and lots of open greenspace, including a pier and beaches on the south side.
Hanlans Point: On the west side of the Islands, it is a great spot to nature-watch or swim out from Hanlans Point Beach.
Wards Island: People actually live here! You can walk through the neighborhood and wave to locals on your way to one of the few bars or restaurants.
Wards Island Beach is also a fantastic spot to swim.
To save time at the ferry terminal, you can buy tickets online (See added Link).
Tip: When leaving, leave from either Hanlans or Wards Island, this will mean a less crowded ferry.
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🏠 Neighborhoods of Toronto
Toronto is a city defined by its neighborhoods and split down the middle by Yonge Street, the world's longest street, which defines the cutoff point for many east-west roads, such as King Street West/East. The city sprawls out and is divided into different districts from Etobicoke in the west to Scarborough out east. However, most visitors to the city will stay within the downtown region, historically known as 'Old Toronto', which has numerous neighborhoods to choose from and something for everyone's travel style.
Downtown Yonge
Centrally located, this might be the most bustling part of the city. Yonge & Dundas Square is a major cultural area of the city. The neighborhood has all walks of life and offers everything. With its proximity to transit, universities, offices, bars, and restaurants. It is a great location for anyone first time in Toronto.
Centered around King Street West. This district has great access to Toronto's most popular bars and restaurants, along with access to key areas such as the Financial District to the east, Chinatown and Kensington to the north, Lakeshore and CN Tower to the south.
Everything needed for an entertaining stay is within a 15min walk from the Entertainment District such as the CN Tower, Aquarium, and sporting venues.
The more recently popularized area of Queen West is a fantastic spot for anyone looking to experience the city like a local. Trinity Bellwoods Park is one of the more notable parks in the city, and Ossington Street is recognized as one of the world's coolest streets for its boutique shops, hip cafes, and trendy restaurant scene.
Overflowing with opportunity. Yorkville is one of the wealthier areas in the city. Located on a major subway interchange (Bloor-Yonge), it has great transit access. The main reason to stay in Yorkville is for its unique shops and multinational high-end chains. The culinary scene is just the same, with some of the city's highest-rated culinary gems found in the area.
The island offers a great escape from the bustling city, located a short ferry ride away.
The park is made up of several islands, all accessible from one another.
Centre Island: The most popular one, it has the Island amusement park, restaurants, and lots of open greenspace, including a pier and beaches on the south side.
Hanlans Point: On the west side of the Islands, it is a great spot to nature-watch or swim out from Hanlans Point Beach.
Wards Island: People actually live here! You can walk through the neighborhood and wave to locals on your way to one of the few bars or restaurants.
Wards Island Beach is also a fantastic spot to swim.
To save time at the ferry terminal, you can buy tickets online (See added Link).
Tip: When leaving, leave from either Hanlans or Wards Island, this will mean a less crowded ferry.
Fiorentina sources local and sustainable food from farmers that they have established relationships with to create delicious menu items that change with the seasons.
The iconic tower sits 553-metres tall, it was the tallest free-standing structure in the world until 2007. It features a glass floor (if you're brave enough), and panoramic views of the city. While everyone goes to the tower for the view up, the historical part of the trip up is worthwhile.
One of the few pedestrian areas in the city, The Distillery District is lined with cobblestone streets and brick buildings, all housing local art galleries, restaurants, and boutique shops.
It was once owned by Gooderham & Worts, which distilled whiskey out of the district. They also built the iconic Gooderham Flatiron Building at Front & Church.
Kensington is a great spot for art lovers! The unique neighborhood draws in artists and tourists from all over to see its indie shops and hipster art boutiques.
The market houses some of Toronto's most popular food vendors, which gained prominence due to their association with the market.
Some recommendations inside the market:
Rasta Pasta.
Golden Patty.
Gus Tacos.
Top Gun Burger.
Toronto is home to the Hockey Hall of Fame, which is a must-do even for non-hockey fans.
Filled with both history and fantastic interactive exhibits, it's well worth checking out and learning more about Canada's national sport.
A must for any art lover. Take in the countless year-round exhibits, or one of the exhibitions the AGO puts on throughout the year.
Art from artists such as Tom Thompson, James Tissot, and the Canadian Group of Seven can be found inside.
The cafe inside is a good place to refuel and overlook Dundas Street below.
The ROM focuses on World Cultures and natural history. Being one of the largest museums in North America, it boasts breathtaking dinosaur sculptures and endless exhibits from all corners of the globe.
A great way to stay in the city on a budget, and meet new people. If you are traveling solo, a hostel (especially with included breakfast) will be a great way to save money and gain new friends along the way.
"Budget" and "Toronto" aren't two things that go well together, however if you look hard enough and make some sacrifices, there are some hidden gems that won't break the bank.
With a little bit more money, you can have a lot more room to stay with Toronto's mid-range hotels. At this price range, large chains such as Hilton or Marriott can be worthwhile.
For those looking for luxury, Toronto has some great properties in which to stay, with some world-class amenities. The most famous of them all is the Fairmont Royal York. Even if you can't stay there, it is worth checking out and having a drink in their famous hotel bar.
The City of Toronto offers a list of self-guided tours to follow, these include hidden gems, architectural marvels, and local hot spots. (No affiliation)
Knowledgeable and engaging, Toonie Tours (named after our $2 coin) offers a great free walking tour! Of course, tips are expected but that is entirely based on the value you think they provided. (No affiliation)
Born from a passion for exploration, out of Toronto. Travel has taken me all over North America and Europe! I've gotten the opportunity to leave Canada, and live in Finland, Germany, and Poland. At the same time, having traveled to 18 countries!
From those opportunities, I started crafting and sharing my maps which I feel provide a sense of exploration and recommendations that others can use to create their own memorable experiences. Each map is handcrafted, both from personal experience and local recommendations. They're a go-to way to learn what each new place you visit has to offer.
Whether it's to help plan a dream trip abroad or explore more of what your own backyard has to offer, check out my collection of ready-to-go maps or let me create one for yourself.
Feel free to reach out with any questions, additions, or corrections at (thomas.abroadandco@gmail.com).
