Toronto, the largest city in Canada, is a magnet for international travellers all year round, with a wide variety of museums and art galleries, music festivals, sporting action, country parks and heritage buildings, not to mention its fabulous shopping and dining, and an excellent public transport system that offers easy access to all the main sights.The city grew out of the late 18th-century British settlement of Town of York and was renamed Toronto in 1834. Since then, it has expanded dramatically both in size and scope, with a population today of almost three million people representing around 200 different ethnic groups. Individual communities in neighbourhoods such as Little Italy, Chinatown and Portugal Village all add their distinctive language, culture and cuisine to the city's cosmopolitan vibe.Ride the lift to the top of the CN Tower to get your bearings with a bird’s-eye view of the city on a clear day you can see as far as Niagara Falls, 60 kilometres away. Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario to familiarise yourself with the famous Toronto artist Tom Thomson and the work of his influential Group of Seven. Then check out the Hockey Hall of Fame to learn all about Canada’s favourite national sport and encounter some of its most legendary players.Canadian winters can be harsh, limiting outdoor activities, but during the summer months there are plenty of open-air music festivals, markets and carnivals, while many attractions have longer opening times. Ontario Place has two live music venues promoting global superstars and the best of Canadian talent, as well as a range of other attractions which are currently undergoing major refurbishment in time for the country’s 150th anniversary celebrations in 2017. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit the Toronto Botanical Garden with many plants and trees at their finest in the milder climate.Families will find plenty on offer for them in this friendly city too. Ride Canada’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster at Canada’s Wonderland, cool off in the Splash Works water park, make friends with the animals at Toronto Zoo, celebrated for its lifelike habitats, or learn about science the fun way at the interactive Ontario Science Centre.
Toronto Travel Guide
Where to stay in Toronto
Downtown Toronto
Known for its must-see aquarium and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Toronto. Check out top attractions like Scotiabank Arena and CN Tower, and jump on the metro at Dundas Station or Dundas St West at Yonge St Stop to see more of the city.
North York
Travellers love North York for its popular shops, and you can see more of Toronto by jumping on the metro at Sheppard West Station or Wilson Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Yorkdale Shopping Centre and Scotiabank Pond.
Scarborough
You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Scarborough. Spend some time visiting top spots like Scarborough Town Centre, and catch the metro at Scarborough Centre Station or McCowan Station to see more of the area.
Old Toronto
If you're spending time in Old Toronto, check out sights like Scotiabank Arena or CN Tower and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Dundas St West at Bay St Stop or Queen St West at Bay St Stop.
Etobicoke
You might take some time to check out the abundant dining options in Etobicoke. Spend some time visiting top spots like Sherway Gardens, and catch the metro at Islington Station or Royal York Station to see more of the area.
Toronto Entertainment District
Travellers choose Toronto Entertainment District for its popular aquarium. Hop aboard the metro at Spadina Ave at Bremner Blvd North Side Stop or Spadina Ave at Front St West North Side Stop and check out top sights like Rogers Centre.
Reviewed on 11 May 2024
Reviewed on 11 May 2024
Reviewed on 10 May 2024
Reviewed on 12 May 2024
Reviewed on 11 May 2024
Reviewed on 12 May 2024
Popular places to visit
Rogers Centre
Come to this multipurpose stadium to watch baseball matches and football games, listen to concerts of famous bands, see family shows or simply tour this central entertainment complex.
CN Tower
This iconic Toronto landmark offers breathtaking views over the whole city and, on a clear day, as far as Niagara Falls.
Canada's Wonderland
Get your adrenaline pumping at this fun-filled amusement park where the thrills come fast and furious.
Scotiabank Arena
Catch an event at Scotiabank Arena during your trip to Toronto. Experience the fascinating museums and acclaimed theatre scene in this vibrant area.
CF Toronto Eaton Centre
Treat yourself to a shopping trip in the stores and boutiques of Toronto’s largest mall, which is housed under a striking glass ceiling.
Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
Make time to visit the sea creatures at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada, and learn why this is a favourite attraction in Toronto. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this vibrant area.
Activities
Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto
City Sightseeing Toronto Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Fall for Niagara Tour
Reviews of Toronto
5/5 - Excellent
We went later than planned so it was getting cold and in fact there was a huge snowfall that month. Big city with plenty of shopping, dining and entertainment areas. Would like to visit again in spring/summer to enjoy more of the outside patios etc
3/5 - Okay
Watching a basketball game is worth it. Lots of eateries and shopping. Busy city. Convenient public transport.
4/5 - Good
Elgin Theatre “Come From Away” was an outstanding musical that was well worth a standing ovation it received.
3/5 - Okay
Just a stop over the Hamilton.
4/5 - Good
The City Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off Bus and cruise were well organised and a great activity to do on our first day in Toronto.
4/5 - Good
Toronto is ticked off the bucket list that is all.
Other places like Toronto
- Rogers Centre
- CN Tower
- Canada's Wonderland
- CF Toronto Eaton Centre
- Toronto Zoo
- Scarborough Town Centre
- Vaughan Mills Mall
- Square One Shopping Centre
- University of Toronto - St. George Campus
- Royal Ontario Museum
- York University
- Yonge-Dundas Square
- The Distillery Historic District
- Hockey Hall of Fame
- High Park
- Toronto Premium Outlets
- Fairview Mall
- Ontario Place
- Ryerson University
- St. Lawrence Market