Toronto
United States and Canada · Canada
See also
Overview
Toronto is a diverse, energetic city with over half its residents born abroad, offering world-class museums, ethnic neighbourhoods, and a vibrant food scene. It's a great base for exploring southern Ontario, with easy day trips to Niagara Falls and the Great Lakes.
Languages: English, French
Why go?
Toronto is a diverse, energetic city with over half its residents born abroad, offering world-class museums, ethnic neighbourhoods, and a vibrant food scene. It's a great base for exploring southern Ontario, with easy day trips to Niagara Falls and the Great Lakes.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Getting in
Toronto is served by two airports: Toronto Pearson (YYZ) for international flights, and Billy Bishop (YTZ) for short-haul. Via Rail and Amtrak connect to Union Station, and intercity buses arrive at Union Station Bus Terminal. UP Express from Pearson to downtown costs $12.35 one-way ($9.25 with Presto).
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Getting around
The TTC operates subways, streetcars, and buses, with a single fare of $3.35 (cash) or $3.30 with Presto. Biking is convenient downtown, and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft are widely available. Taxis are expensive; avoid rush hour on highways.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
When to go
Late spring/early summer and early fall are best for weather and fewer crowds. Winters are cold (avg -3.8°C) and snowy, but the city remains vibrant with skating rinks. Summers are warm and humid, with peak tourist season in mid-summer. Thunderstorms can occur.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Field guide adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0. Text has been adapted and organized for this guide. About our sources.
Places to know
A few starting points from the guide. Check current hours and prices before you go.
- eat
Aroma Espresso Bar
This cafe chain has locations throughout the city. Aroma might be the best of the large coffee chains for espresso coffees and rivals the quality at many independent coffee shops. The coffee is served in a cup and saucer with a metal spoon (you might not get the spoon at some other places), and you get a piece of chocolate (a nice touch).
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- eat
Balzac's
Balzac's is a small chain of cafes in interesting neighbourhoods. It serves only organic, Fair Trade coffee, cocoa and sugar, and its milk is locally sourced and organic.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- see
Air Canada
Canada's largest airline. Operates flights to Billy Bishop Airport from Montreal and Ottawa, on Bombardier Q400 turboprop planes. Toronto Pearson International Airport is a hub for this airline with far more flight options including from international destinations.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- see
Amtrak
Operates trains throughout the United States of America.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- see
Destination Toronto
Tourist information from the Toronto Convention and Visitors Association.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- see
FlixBus
Bus service to Toronto from Ottawa (4.75 hours), Peterborough (Ontario)
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- see
GO Transit
GO Transit operates 7 commuter rail lines radiating from Toronto serving smaller cities within and near the Greater Toronto Area. The lines have various service levels varying from all-day service to limited mid-day service to only rush-hour, peak-direction service. Most fares can be paid by credit, debit or Presto card
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- see
Intercity Bus
Service from London (Ontario)
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
Before you go
Connectivity
Free Wi-Fi in many public spaces; mobile coverage excellent.
Culture
Multicultural city; English is primary but many languages spoken.
Health
Tap water safe; hospitals available.
Local transport
TTC single fare $3.35; consider a day pass for $13.50.
Money
CAD is the currency. Credit cards widely accepted; carry some cash for small vendors.
Safety
Generally safe, but practice usual urban precautions against pickpocketing in crowded areas.
Visa context
Visa rules depend on passport; check current entry rules before booking.