Toronto travel guide: Tips for planning your trip

Picture a city where more than 180 languages mingle together, skyscrapers like the CN Tower nudge the clouds, and visiting different neighbourhoods feels like taking mini-world trips. Toronto isn’t just Canada’s biggest city, it’s a living melting pot of cultures and flavours. For a truly local experience, stroll through Kensington Market’s funky streets, bite into a peameal bacon sandwich at St. Lawrence Market, or catch a sunset over Lake Ontario. Whether you’re sipping craft beer in the Distillery District or people-watching in High Park, Toronto wraps you in that easygoing “we’re-all-in-this-together” vibe.

This guide is designed to provide Canadian travellers with valuable insights and tips, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience as they explore Toronto. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay, the information below will serve as your essential resource for navigating the city's attractions and transportation options, for example, making your trip both memorable and enjoyable.

Toronto is a year-round gem, and when you visit can make a huge difference! Winter (December to February) is chilly yet enchanting with the Distillery District Christmas Market, outdoor ice-skating at Nathan Phillips Square, and Winterlicious dining deals.

Spring (Mar to May) brings milder weather, stunning cherry blossoms in High Park, and the buzz of Canadian Music Week.

Summer (June to August) heats things up with vibrant patios, the Dragon Boat Race Festival, and the vibrant sights and sounds of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival.

In the fall (September to November), enjoy the fiery foliage, all the glam of the Toronto International Film Festival, and the all-night art celebration of Nuit Blanche.

Let’s be real: The Great Toronto Area is massive, but getting around doesn’t have to be a headache. Fly into Pearson (YYZ) northwest of the city or Billy Bishop (YTZ) for downtown convenience. In town, the TTC subway and streetcars are your budget-friendly BFFs—grab and load up a Presto card for tap-and-go ease.

Prefer wheels? Bike Sharing is a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore Toronto. Be sure to bike along the Waterfront Trail or Toronto Islands for sweeping views of the downtown skyline. If you're looking for a more picturesque bike trail, seek out the ones running through the Don River Valley and Tommy Thompson Park. Pro tip: Avoid driving downtown if possible—traffic’s not cute. And hey, if you’re feeling fancy, local taxis as well as Uber and Lyft are available.

You haven't truly seen Toronto until you've hit the spots on our list. Kick things off at the CN Tower with a stop at the LookOut Level for a view that'll take your breath away. If you're feeling brave, try the EdgeWalk—the view is insane!

On a warmer day, head to the waterfront for some outdoor fun. Rent a kayak at Harbourfront and paddle around Lake Ontario, or hop on a ferry to the Toronto Islands for a relaxing day trip. The islands offer stunning city skyline views and plenty of green spaces where you can picnic and unwind.

Just east of the CN Tower, stroll through the Distillery District's cobblestone streets for a perfect lazy afternoon while browsing indie galleries and cozy cafés.

While you’re on that side of town, take the opportunity to fuel up at St. Lawrence Market. Grab a peameal bacon sandwich at Carousel Bakery—it's a Toronto classic. Or, on Sundays, hunt for quirky finds in the antique stalls.

If you're a history buff, a visit to Fort York with its epic reenactments is a must. Its cannon blasts and soldier stories make the War of 1812 feel real. Channel your inner royal and explore Casa Loma's towers and secret passages. The gardens are straight out of a fairy tale. And if you're still craving more history, the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is a must-visit. From dinosaur fossils to ancient cultures, it's a journey through time.

Finally, sports fans, you're in luck! Catch a Blue Jays game or cheer on the Raptors. The energy in the stadium is electric!

Sometimes you just need a break from the city buzz, and Toronto is great for that with amazing day trips within three hours’ drive or less. First up, Feel the power at Niagara Falls, where the thunderous roar and misty spray are something else.

Then there’s Niagara-on-the-Lake, a charming town know for its historic streets and the Shaw Festival. Wine lovers: try ice wine while you’re there. It's a treat.

For outdoor fun, If you're up for a hike with a view, check out some of Hamilton's more than 100 waterfalls. Hiking is a great way to see them. The trails are awesome and the cascades are very Instagram-worthy.

And hey, don’t miss Stratford, the theatre town that’ll make you feel more cultured. Catch a play, stroll the pretty parks, and you’re set.

Finally, hit the Blue Mountains. Skiing in winter, hiking in summer—it’s a playground for all seasons.

If you're travelling on a budget, Toronto’s got something for everyone. Start with free attractions —wander through High Park’s 400+ acres of greenery, picnic at Grenadier Pond, or catch the spring cherry blossoms. The park is also perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.

On rainy days, head to Allan Gardens Conservatory for a lush, indoor escape with tropical plants and seasonal displays. If you are into street art, make sure you don’t miss Graffiti Alley in Toronto’s Fashion District. Fuel up and share dim sum delights in Chinatown at spots like Rol San, dine at one of many ethnic restaurants/takeouts available across the city, or grab a gourmet sandwich from food trucks near Trinity Bellwoods and enjoy a picnic in the park.

Finally, save up to 38% off with the Toronto CityPASS, which bundles top sights like the CN Tower and ROM.

Securing travel insurance for trips to other Canadian provinces or territories is essential. While provincial health plans may provide some coverage, they may not cover services like ambulance fees and emergency medical transportation back to your home province. Also, travel insurance may offer important non-medical protections. Trip cancellation/interruption coverage safeguards your investment if unforeseen events force changes to your plans. Baggage coverage may assist with reimbursing certain costs if your baggage is lost, damaged, or stolen while you are on your trip. Always review your policy details to confirm that the coverage aligns with your needs!