Marvel at the grand old buildings that are reminders of a time when the city’s fortunes were made and broken here.

Immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of a historic marketplace and purchase organic produce in Toronto’s Old Town. Step back and admire classic architectural icons as well as stunning cathedrals as you walk along the area’s cobblestone streets.

Set against the shining skyscrapers of the inner city, the Old Town offers a refreshing break from the modern commercial reality. Nowhere are the changes that have taken place more obvious than St. Lawrence Market. Constructed in 1803 as the city’s first public hall, its quaint red-brick exterior hides a bustling floor of vendors that continue to market fresh fruit, vegetables and meat. Seek out mouth-watering cheese and honey or purchase fine Arctic char brought here straight from the harbour.

Visit the glorious Cathedral of St. James on the corner of Church and King streets. The 330-foot (100-metre) spire was once used by sailors to navigate safely into port. It is supported by lower Gothic towers and a vaulted ceiling. Inside view several outstanding stained-glass windows.

Different in appearance yet just as memorable is the Flatiron Building, a 5-minute walk south. Built in a traditional pyramid style at the end of the 19th-century, this was once the headquarters of the Gooderham and Worts Distilling Company. Framed by the flash of the financial district behind, the dark red colour, rounded edges and rickety fire escape appear frozen in history.

Idyllic architecture surrounds you. Spend some time taking it all in from one of the small but pretty parks nearby. Take scenic pictures from tree-covered Berczy Park or escape the crowds at Princess Street Park to the east.

Old Town is a few minutes from the city centre so either walk or take the subway. Pick your favourite from a diverse selection of bars and restaurants with American-style dining as well as Italian, French, Japanese and Moroccan.