Toronto: Cheap Flights & Best Hotels

Toronto Travel Guide

The City in Brief

Toronto is Canada's largest city and one of the most multicultural places on earth, with neighbourhoods where you can hear dozens of languages within a few blocks. It sits on the shore of Lake Ontario, and its skyline is dominated by the CN Tower. Visitors come for the food, the festivals, professional sports and as a base for Niagara Falls, but the city rewards slow exploration of its markets, islands and distinct districts.

Climate and When to Go

Toronto has four very different seasons.

• Summer (June to August): Warm and sometimes humid, with patios, waterfront festivals and a full events calendar, including a major international film festival that runs into September. This is peak season.
• Autumn (September to October): Crisp air and colourful leaves, especially in the ravines and parks. Many travellers consider this the sweet spot.
• Winter (December to March): Cold, with snow and icy winds off the lake. Underground walkways downtown help, and skating rinks and winter festivals add charm. Hotel rates are often lower outside the holidays.
• Spring (April to May): Changeable weather, cherry blossoms in High Park and fewer crowds.

Highlights

CN Tower. Ride to the observation levels for views across the city and lake, with a glass floor for the brave.

St. Lawrence Market. A historic food market known for peameal bacon sandwiches, cheeses and baked goods.

Toronto Islands. A short ferry ride from downtown brings car-free islands, beaches, cycling paths and the best skyline views in the city.

Distillery District. Victorian industrial buildings turned into a pedestrian area of galleries, cafés and seasonal markets.

Royal Ontario Museum and Art Gallery of Ontario. The ROM covers natural history and world cultures; the AGO holds a large collection of Canadian and international art.

Kensington Market and Chinatown. Vintage shops, street art and inexpensive food from around the world.

Niagara Falls. Around one and a half to two hours away by road, depending on traffic. Go by tour, train, bus or car; the boat ride towards the falls is the classic experience.

Food and Drink

Toronto's best meals reflect its communities. Try a peameal bacon sandwich at St. Lawrence Market and poutine (fries with cheese curds and gravy), a Canadian comfort food. There is excellent dim sum, Korean food along Bloor Street, Portuguese bakeries, Caribbean roti and jerk chicken, and a strong South Asian scene in Gerrard India Bazaar and the suburbs of Brampton and Mississauga. Finish with a butter tart, a sweet Canadian pastry.

Getting In and Getting Around

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) handles most international flights. The UP Express train links Pearson to Union Station downtown. Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, on the island, serves some regional routes. VIA Rail trains arrive at Union Station from Montreal, Ottawa and other Canadian cities.

The TTC runs the subway, streetcars and buses. Pay with a PRESTO card or a contactless bank card. Downtown is walkable, and the PATH network of underground walkways is useful in winter. Bike Share Toronto stations are common. A car is unnecessary in the centre but handy for trips outside the city.

Places to Stay

• Downtown and the Entertainment District: Close to the CN Tower, theatres and sports venues.
• Yorkville: Upscale shopping and hotels near the ROM.
• Queen West and West Queen West: Creative, with independent shops and bars.
• The Annex: Leafy and relaxed, near the university.
• Near Pearson Airport: Practical for early flights, less so for sightseeing.

Budget Tips

• Many festivals and outdoor events in summer are free.
• Some museums offer free or reduced entry at set times; check their websites before you go.
• Use contactless or PRESTO fares rather than buying single tickets.
• The Toronto Islands ferry is an inexpensive way to get a skyline view.
• Remember that sales tax is added at the till and tipping is expected in restaurants.

Practical Information

• Entry requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to Canada. Check the official Government of Canada website.
• Currency: Canadian dollar (CAD).
• Languages: English is dominant; French is Canada's other official language.
• Winter preparation: Pack proper insulated boots, gloves and a hat if travelling between December and March.
• Plugs: Type A and B.

Before You Book

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