Holidays in Toronto
Toronto on the shores of Lake Ontario
Toronto is Canada’s largest city and one of the country’s principal cultural and business centres. It combines Lake Ontario views with major museums, contemporary architecture, sporting events, varied dining and neighbourhoods with distinctly different characters.
Three or four days generally provide enough time for a first visit, including the principal landmarks, a museum day and the waterfront. A longer stay allows the itinerary to include the Toronto Islands or continue through Ontario.
What to include in your itinerary
A first day may focus on downtown Toronto, with the observation levels of the CN Tower, Harbourfront and the area around Union Station. Timed CN Tower tickets are advisable during summer and at weekends.
The cultural programme can include the Royal Ontario Museum, the Art Gallery of Ontario or one of the city’s specialist museums. Another day may connect St. Lawrence Market and the Distillery Historic District with Kensington Market or Chinatown.
During the warmer months, the Toronto Islands provide a change from the city centre. Ferries operate throughout the year, although routes, schedules and available activities vary by season.
The best time to visit
May to October is the most convenient period for walking, island visits and outdoor events. Summer is the busiest season, making advance hotel, attraction and event reservations advisable.
September and October offer comfortable conditions for city itineraries and seasonal scenery. Winter can bring snow, wind and low temperatures, but Toronto maintains an extensive programme of museums, theatre and indoor sporting events.
Choosing a hotel and planning transport
Downtown, the Entertainment District and South Core provide convenient access to the CN Tower, Union Station, the waterfront and major arenas. Yorkville suits travellers seeking a quieter base close to museums, restaurants and shops. Old Town offers historic surroundings and walkable routes.
The TTC subway, streetcars and buses cover most areas of interest. UP Express connects Toronto Pearson Airport with Union Station in downtown Toronto. A car is generally unnecessary for a city stay but becomes useful when continuing beyond Toronto.