| Keytours Vacations

Discover Toronto's Wonders

Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is a bustling metropolis known for its diverse culture, iconic skyline, and vibrant neighborhoods. Visitors can explore the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the historic Distillery District. The city’s multicultural neighborhoods offer unique culinary experiences, while popular shopping destinations like Queen Street West attract fashion enthusiasts. With year-round festivals, waterfront parks, and a lively arts scene, Toronto provides a vibrant urban experience with something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination in Ontario.

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Description

Toronto is a bustling and ever-evolving multicultural hub of Canada. Home to about 3 million people, the city organically brings together a multitude of cultures and offers plenty in terms of art and entertainment all year round. It's the most populous city in Canada, as well as the capital of the province of Ontario. The city's many districts each have their own unique flair, and some of the latest architectural creations liven up the cityscape and make for some amazing backdrop for unique photo moments. Toronto's location on Lake Ontario adds a refreshing breeze to the vibe of this busy metropolis, and the abundance of green spaces and parks make it an incredibly livable city. Toronto hosts a multitude of festivals throughout the year, boasts a plethora of sights to keep visitors busy for days (Canadian Niagara Falls are a stone's throw away from here, too), and boasts vibrant shopping and dining scenes.

Useful information

Population:

The city: 2.8 million Torontonians Toronto Metropolitan Area (CMA): 7 million

Currency:

Canadian dollar, $1 = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

911

Opening Hours:

Banks usually open from 10am until 5pm Monday to Friday. Post Offices open from 9am until 5pm. Shops generally open from 9am and 6pm. Big shopping malls closing later, usually around 9pm.

Do & See

Absolute Towers

The Absolute Towers are an unmissable landmark. They liven up the cityscape with their unusual design and are one of the most original-looking residential condominiums out there. The skyscrapers twist to challenge strictly utilitarian modernist perspective on residential buildings.

Allan Gardens Conservatory

The Conservatory features six greenhouses and hosts multiple species of flora, such as orchids, cacti, banana and palm trees, and more. Events at the Conservatory are often marked with beautiful flower and plant arrangements.

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir

This Hindu temple was the first of its kind in Canada. Craftsmen in India hand-carved limestone and marble and shipped parts of the temple to Toronto, where volunteering artisans from India assembled the parts and built the temple, all while living on site for 2 years. What came out is a stunning piece of Hindu temple architecture.

Brookfield Place

Brookfield Place is a postmodern architectural complex that is primarily an office complex, but still remains a tourist attraction due to the exhibitions and installations it frequently hosts. Come here to admire art and architecture, shop, and take some unique photos.

Canada’s Wonderland

This huge amusement park houses the largest variety of roller coasters in all of North America, and also contains a 20-acre water park for those who don't mind making a splash. The park promises loads of fun for the whole family, and season passes are available.

Casa Loma

The medieval Gothic Revival castle of Casa Loma today belongs to the city of Toronto and has been used as a film set for numerous movies and TV shows. The castle is open to visitors, who are welcome to explore its halls furnished with authentic period items. The view over Toronto from one of the towers is definitely worth taking in.

Chinatown

Toronto 's Chinatown is a must-see destination. The area is full of interesting stores, herbal remedy shops, cafes, restaurants and produce markets, all waiting to be explored. The area is also conveniently located near other notable attractions such as the Art Gallery of Ontario, Kensington Market, Bau-Xi Gallery, and Art Square Gallery, which has a cafe with an impressive menu. If you happen to be in town at the right time, be sure to check out one of Chinatown's two popular festivals. In August, the Toronto Chinatown Festival features traditional and modern Asian dance troops, bands and musicians. In January–February, join the vibrant Chinese New Year celebration.

CN Tower

One of Toronto's most important symbols and well-known landmarks is the CN Tower. The tower's top level is where the world's highest observation deck is located, offering visitors a stunning view of Toronto's skyline. The tower's third level houses a high-class restaurant with spectacular vistas, and a cafe occupies the level below. The tower serves a practical purpose, too — it is a major Canadian telecommunications hub.

Dining

360 Restaurant

With its own wine cellar (the world's highest!) the 360 is a curious landmark located at the top of the famous CN Tower. Enjoying the seasonal menu and incredible wine selection as you dine in this revolving restaurant is complemented by the stunning views of Toronto from over 350 meters above the ground.

Barque Smokehouse

Barque Smokehouse is well-known for its generous portions, so order to share. Try the ribs or come in for brunch — protein options abound! For the full tasting experience, try the BBQ platter (feeds four). It includes brisket, pulled pork, lamb shoulder, turkey sausages, baby back ribs and chicken thighs.

C'est what?

C'est What is Toronto's original craft beer restaurant. The place to go for local beers, music and board games. In addition, enjoy their whisky bar and tasty comfort food for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The butter chicken, burgers, ribs and fish dishes are top notch.

Canoe

Located on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower, this swanky restaurant boasts stunning panoramas of the Toronto harbor and downtown core. The menu is seasonal, highlighting the rich Canadian cultural heritage. The restaurant is available for private events on Saturdays and Sundays.

General Public

General Public is an ambitious and stylish day-to-night restaurant that reimagines the classic English pub with a distinctly Torontonian flair. The space itself is a conversation between two aesthetics: the main floor features lush, green banquettes and warm wood for a sophisticated pub feel, while the upstairs mezzanine offers a vibrant, peach-hued 1980s-inspired lounge. The menu reflects this duality, serving elevated pub fare with creative touches, from a breakfast sandwich topped with a hashbrown and queso to a refined beef-and-tongue pie.

Khao San Road

A unison of frequent visitors' praising remarks serves as testament to the restaurant being worth spending your evening at. Passionate and skilled chef prepares food with authentic flavors from Thailand. This location is an obligatory stop for Thai food lovers.

Lee

Lee's style of serving food is inspired by the Spanish tapas experience, although the flavors themselves gravitate towards Asian and French. Dishes are served in small portions, which allows guests to enjoy many different flavors in one night. The atmosphere is hip and relaxed.

Madrina Bar & Tapas

Chef Ramon Simarro brings classic cuisine from Barcelona to Toronto. Dishes like tortilla chips, tapas, salads or baguettes as well as other tasty Spanish delicacies are served here all day long. For lunch, steak, chicken or tuna salads are on the menu and can be accompanied by one of the drinks from the extensive list of beverages in the form of different wines or cocktails.

Cafés

Balzac's Coffee Roasters

This popular coffee house is nestled in the old Pump House of the historic Distillery District and is probably the closest you'll get to a European coffee house in Toronto. The dark wood and raw stone interior lends a Paris café ambiance to this hidden-in-epic-proportions gem. Stylized posters in the Toulouse-Lautrec and Cheret realm grace the walls, while a huge chandelier hangs from the ceiling.

Café Diplomatico

This laid back, unpretentious spot smack in the middle of Little Italy on the College West strip has become an institution for coffee lovers and is often used as a set for film makers. In the afternoon, the tables fill with local folk pouring intensely over movie reviews, writing, or chatting amicably while sipping long double espressos or lattes from pint-sized glasses.

Caphelia

Caphelia is a cozy, unassuming café on a side street near Yonge and Wellesley, known for its Vietnamese-inspired drinks and ceremonial-grade matcha. Its signature offerings include a robust, strong-brewed coffee and inventive matcha lattes like the popular banana pudding version. The menu also features authentic central Vietnamese bánh mì, noted for its use of coriander. With a calm, pale-wood interior and exceptionally friendly service, it provides a relaxed and welcoming spot for a leisurely break.

Espro Coffee Bar

Espro Coffee Bar offers a distinctive café experience, functioning as a dedicated living lab for the craft of French press coffee. It is the only café in Canada with this specific focus, using its own award-winning presses to deliver a grit-free, full-flavoured brew. The minimalist, modern space is designed for mindful consumption rather than remote work, encouraging patrons to engage with the coffee-making process. Located in Toronto's Beaches neighbourhood, it provides a unique, curated stop for coffee enthusiasts seeking to explore the nuances of immersion brewing.

Il Fornello on Danforth

Il Fornello serves authentic wood oven-baked Neapolitan-style pizzas along with other Italian food options, such as pasta and seafood dishes to be enjoyed in a bright, modern setting with a spacious patio.

Moonbean Coffee Shop

It’s very rarely quiet at this quaint spot in Kensington market, one of the few shops where you can enjoy some 50 different varieties of organic, freshly roasted and fair trade coffee. Head there on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon, and don’t forget to order the popular “nana” bread (banana bread)!

Pizzeria Libretto

Toronto's favorite pizza joint cherishes its well-deserved popularity among locals–their wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas are all of the highest quality and bring the place plenty of repeat customers. The drink list is extensive, and a good value fixed-price lunch is served on weekdays.

Rooster Coffee House

Coffee and food options are aplenty at this cozy cafe with a view over Riverdale Park. Many plugs to charge your electronic devices and password-free WiFi are a nice touch to complete the café experience.

Bars & Nightlife

Dog & Bear

Best described as a traditional English pub, a sports-friendly, neighborhood watering hole with a cozy atmosphere. The pub is equipped with nine big TVs broadcasting big games. As the night progresses, the venue becomes increasingly louder and livelier.

Horseshoe Tavern

If you are looking for live music, craft beers or ales from the tap, this tavern is the place to go. With more than 75 years of history, the Horseshoe Tavern knows how to host a party with good music, drinks and vibes. Check the schedule on the taverns' website for their daily acts and ticket purchases.

Tallboys

Tallboys is a cozy alehouse with a rotating selection of local craft beers, from crisp lagers and rich porters to sour ales and bold dark brews. The menu includes creative pub fare like burgers topped with kimchi, along with sandwiches and salads. With its relaxed atmosphere and varied offerings, Tallboys makes an ideal spot for both beer enthusiasts and casual visitors.

The Lounge at the Drake Hotel

A favorite of artists and indie musicians, this bohemian infused hotel lounge is located in Toronto’s artsy design neighborhood and is frequented by fashionistas and creative types. The drink menu offers vintage cocktails with a twist. Recipe sources include drink menus from the Algonquin Hotel in New York circa 1920s.

The Reservoir Lounge

This intimate basement venue features live jazz, swing, and blues five nights a week, accompanied by late-night tapas and cocktails. The stage hosts an eclectic mix of genres, from funk and R&B to pop and folk, creating a vibrant atmosphere each evening. With its retro ambience and well-crafted drinks, the lounge offers an ideal setting for a memorable night out.

The Rex

The Rex has been a staple of Queen Street for decades, and every night of the week sees live acts on stage to-date. A great place for a drink and some jazz, funk or rock tunes. Whatever is on schedule that night will entertain and all but guarantee a fun night out.

The Village Genius Pub

A visit to this lively and warm pub will give you the opportunity to see your name inscribed on the "Idiot's Hall of Fame". This place is also known for having dozens of beers on tap, a great selection of imported bottles at very good prices, and serving German and Belgian pub grub.

WVRST

The beer-hall style seating in this Fashion District bar promises rowdy beer-drinking nights. Luckily, there is plenty to choose from: both local microbreweries and old European ones are represented. The selection of sausages to go along is just as varied.

Shopping

Arts Market

The place to go for unique pieces of art and an original design-lovers' favorite haunt, the Arts Market is where one would head to find exquisite creations to bring home. The Arts Market project allows multiple local creators to easily showcase and sell their art, thus fostering the city's creative spirit. Arts Market has four locations: 790 Queen Street East, 662 College Street (College), 2978 Dundas Street West (The Junction) and 1856 Danforth Avenue (Danforth).

Bergo Designs

Bergo Designs is an interior and home decor design store reminiscent of its many cousins in big European capitals. It stocks unique, elegantly designed items that will not look out of place in a tasteful interior. The trendy Distillery District the store is located in also makes for a great walk around.

Bloor Street & Yorkville

Probably Toronto's most well-known shopping street, this area is packed with shops and boutiques of some of the world's biggest brands. Browse Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Aritzia and lots more. Enjoyable high-end shopping guaranteed.

Dixie Outlet Mall

Shopping for brands on a budget is what shoppers flock to this mall for. This enormous outlet mall offers plenty to choose from, and boasts brand names such as Levi's, Guess, Tommy Hilfiger and others. There is a food court and entertainment venues, too.

Eaton Centre

One of the largest and most well-known shopping complexes of Toronto with four levels and over 300 shops and restaurants. From H&M, Zara and Gap, to Canadian retailers like Roots and La Maison Simons, this is one-stop-shopping at its best. There are many other upscale boutiques that offer the latest in women’s fashion and accessories.

Kensington Market

A year-round cacophony of vendors hawking everything from fresh fish to dress socks, Kensington Market is the place to get whatever your heart desires. The food choices available are a gesture towards Toronto's multi-ethnic population. Kensington Market is also known for its second hand vintage clothing stores.

King West

The King Street area, formerly an industrial area with not much entertainment going on, is now one of Toronto's shopping centrals packed with trendy fashion boutiques and restaurants. It's a rapidly developing area of the city, with an ever-increasing supply of entertainment.

One of a Kind Show

Two times a year, around Christmas and in Spring, the One of a Kind show brings together numerous artists, craftsmen and designers to showcase their unique, handcrafted fashion and art items — most available for sale. Check the website for more details and this year's dates.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

Toronto is a year-round destination that offers something for everyone. Summer (June through August) is the most popular season and this is when schools are on break and many families go on vacation. Summer is the warmest time of the year, and this is also when the city is getting more crowded and the accommodation rates are rising. In June, many popular festivals kick off. If you like cold weather and outdoor activities, then November to March are good months to travel to Toronto. During these months the hotel rates are also lower. January is the peak of Toronto's long winter season and one of the coldest months of the year. Spring, in April and May, is often mentioned as the best time to visit Toronto. The weather is chillier but still it is comfortable to do some sightseeing. Make sure to have an extra layer of clothing when the sun drops down — it can get cold. During these months there are no crowds and the room rates are reasonable.

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) offers a convenient travel hub, situated on Toronto Island just three kilometres from the downtown core. This regional airport provides flights to major Canadian cities as well as select U.S. destinations including Newark, Boston and Chicago. Its proximity allows for a short commute via public transit, a complimentary shuttle, or a walk through the scenic pedestrian tunnel connecting the mainland to the island terminal.

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

Toronto is one of the most accessible cities in North America, nearby cities include Buffalo, Detroit, Chicago and New York. The Lester B. Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is located in the northwest corner of metropolitan Toronto 16 miles (25 kilometers) west of central Toronto and serves more than 35 international carriers. It is the main Toronto airport for handling commercial and business flights. Allow 40-60 minutes to/from the heart of downtown, depending on time of travel. Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) provides express bus and subway service to the city centre of Toronto. This is the least expensive method of getting to and from downtown Toronto. You will find the stations in terminal 1, ground level, second curb, column R4 and terminal 3, arrivals level, third curb, column C12. MiWay, the local bus service within the City of Mississauga is located in terminal 1, ground Level, second curb, column S4. GO Bus and GO Train service transport their passengers to the city centre of Toronto and surrounding suburbs. (Terminal 1, ground level, second curb, column Q2-Q4). Union Pearson (UP) Express takes only 25 minutes from Toronto Pearson International Airport to Union Station in the heart of downtown Toronto. The trains leave every 15 minutes and run between 5:30am and 1am. Tickets can be bought at the ticket vending machines at the airport, customer service counter in terminal 1 (arrival level) and onboard on the train. If you choose to take a taxi, make sure to take a licensed Toronto Pearson taxi or limo. Only authorized taxi companies are allowed to pick passengers from Toronto Pearson. Taxi pick-up locations: terminal 1, arrival level and terminal 3, arrivals level.

Public Transport

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) provides a fast, convenient and safe way to get around Toronto. The subway system is linked with buses and streetcars to get you around Toronto on one fare, provided it’s a one way trip with no stopovers. You can “ride the rocket” (as the TTC aptly describes itself) weekdays and Saturdays from about 6am until 1:30am and on Sundays from about 9am to 1:30am. Get a transfer when you pay and you can make a free connection as long as you complete your journey within one hour. Weekly and monthly passes are also available at subway stations. Buses and streetcars are frequent and can get you from any subway stop to your final destination. Both are equipped with route and destination information signs. Schedule information is posted at most major route intersections. There’s a late night service called the Blue Night Network. Buses and streetcars run on most major routes (transit stops are marked with a reflective blue band) every morning from about 1:30am to 5am Service is provided every 30 minutes or less. Toronto is also served by the VIA Rail System, the network that provides all rail service throughout Canada (with connections to the Amtrak system through Niagara Falls, New York). Union Station is the name of the train station. It is located on Front Street, between Bay and University (across the street from the Royal York Hotel). The station is right on the subway line.

Electricity

Canada uses 110-volt electricity, 60 cycle electric power, same as the USA. Power outlets are designed for use with a two-prong and some accept a 3-prong (with ground) plug.

Pharmacy

Rexall and Shoppers Drug Mart are two of Toronto’s main chains for medication. There’s often one in every neighborhood that is open 24 hours. If you’re in need of emergency medical care, call 911. Concierges at hotel desks can also recommend doctors.

Port of Toronto

The International Marine Passenger Terminal is an exciting destination for cruise ship travelers, with a convenient location just a short drive from downtown Toronto. The port allows passengers to spend several days in the city, taking advantage of its many attractions, restaurants and accommodations. The port was originally built for the Spirit of Ontario I, a fast ferry service between Toronto and Rochester, New York, but has since become a hub for Great Lakes cruise ships. In the summer months, tourists from the US and Europe often use the terminal as a port of call between May and October.

Post

Stamps are available from Canada Post outlets or post offices across the city. Most post offices are open from 9am to 7pm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Toronto?

The best time to visit Toronto is during the late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is vibrant with events. Summers are warm and bustling with festivals, but can be crowded, while winters are cold with occasional snow, ideal for those who enjoy winter sports.

How many days should I plan to stay in Toronto?

A stay of 3 to 5 days in Toronto is ideal to explore the city's main attractions, neighborhoods, and cultural sites. This allows time to visit landmarks like the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, and take a day trip to Niagara Falls.

What are the must-see attractions in Toronto?

Toronto offers a range of attractions including: - CN Tower: Iconic landmark with panoramic city views. - Royal Ontario Museum: Extensive art and natural history exhibits. - Distillery District: Historic area with shops, galleries, and eateries. - Toronto Islands: Scenic escape with beaches and parks. - St. Lawrence Market: Historic market with diverse food stalls.

What is the best way to get around Toronto?

Toronto's public transportation system, the TTC, is efficient and includes subways, buses, and streetcars. For convenience, purchase a Presto card for easy access. Taxis, ride-sharing services, and bike rentals are also widely available for getting around the city.

Are there any local dishes or foods to try in Toronto?

Toronto's diverse culinary scene offers a taste of global cuisines. Be sure to try: - Peameal bacon sandwich: A local favorite often found at St. Lawrence Market. - Butter tarts: A classic Canadian dessert. - Poutine: Fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, a Canadian staple. - Diverse international foods reflecting the city's multicultural population.

What cultural events or festivals should I experience in Toronto?

Toronto hosts numerous events throughout the year. Highlights include: - Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in September, showcasing global cinema. - Caribana Festival in summer, celebrating Caribbean culture with parades and music. - Nuit Blanche in October, an all-night arts festival. - Winterlicious in January/February, a culinary event featuring prix-fixe menus at top restaurants.

What neighborhoods are best for tourists to stay in Toronto?

Popular neighborhoods for tourists in Toronto include: - Downtown: Close to major attractions and vibrant nightlife. - Yorkville: Known for luxury shopping and fine dining. - The Annex: Offers a bohemian vibe with cafes and bookstores. - Distillery District: Historic charm with boutique accommodations.

Trips

Canadian Capitals Self Drive Adventure

Montreal and Ontario Highlights Self Drive Discovery

Eastern Canada Express Self Drive Discovery

Toronto Pre or Post cruise

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