Canada’s largest city, where the CN Tower rises over Lake Ontario and neighbourhoods from around the world bring their food; also the gateway to Niagara Falls, about 1.5 hours away.
Weather: June–September is best, with lovely autumn colour from late September into October; December–March brings sub-zero cold and snow. source
Times to avoid: Winter (December–March) is sub-zero; plan around the underground PATH walkway and museums. source
Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Don't miss in Toronto
CN Tower Toronto’s 553 m landmark, with lookouts and a glass floor over Lake Ontario and the city. source
Casa Loma An early-20th-century Gothic Revival castle with towers, secret passages and gardens. source
St. Lawrence Market Toronto’s landmark food market and home of the peameal bacon sandwich. source
Royal Ontario Museum One of Canada’s largest museums, from dinosaurs to world cultures; free on third-Tuesday evenings with a pre-booked slot. source
Where to stay in Toronto
Downtown (around Union Station)
Close to the CN Tower and waterfront, and the terminus of the UP Express airport train.
Yorkville / Bloor Street
A shopping area near the Royal Ontario Museum where subway Lines 1 and 2 meet.
What to eat in Toronto
Peameal Bacon Sandwich — Cornmeal-crusted back bacon in a bun, Toronto’s signature sandwich
Butter Tart — Small Canadian tart with a sweet butter-sugar-egg filling
Poutine — Fries topped with cheese curds and gravy
Toronto tips and things to watch out for
Toronto travel tips
Menu prices exclude 13% HST and tip; a 15–18% tip is usual. source
Airport to city: the UP Express runs from Pearson to Union Station in about 25 minutes; paying with PRESTO or a contactless card is cheaper than a paper ticket. source
Good to know in Canada
Sales tax may be included in the displayed price or added separately; check your receipt. source
Contactless card payment works in most shops and on public transit. source
Watch out for in Canada
In parks and on trails you may meet bears and other wildlife; follow posted rules and never leave food out. source
In Canadian cities, do not leave bags unattended and keep valuables and your passport secure. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for Toronto are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in Canada.
Toronto attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.
CN Tower general admission (Adult, before tax): CA$47.00 · child CA$34.00