Toronto, Canada

TTC (Toronto Transit Commission): Toronto’s public transportation system includes subways, buses, and streetcars. The subway is the quickest way to travel long distances, especially during peak traffic hours.

Bicycles: Toronto has been expanding its bike lanes, making cycling a viable mode of transportation. The Bike Share Toronto program allows for short-term bike rentals throughout the city.

Walking: Downtown Toronto is very walkable, with many attractions close to each other. Plus, the PATH system offers an underground network of walkways connecting shops, restaurants, and subway stations, which is especially useful during the colder months.

Driving: While having a car might be useful for visiting places outside of Toronto, driving in the city center can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking. It’s often easier to rely on public transit or other means of transportation when exploring the downtown area.

English is the dominant language in Canada.

Best Neighborhood to Stay for First Timers/Sightseeing: Entertainment District or Yonge-Dundas
The two main Downtown neighborhoods are where most visitors end up in Toronto – most of the hotels are here, and they lie close to major clusters of bars, restaurants and shops, as well as the hub of the city’s public transportation network.Yonge-Dundas is a better choice if you want to be close to Eaton Centre and associated shopping, while the Entertainment District has slighter better eating options and is handy for the CN Tower and Rogers Center.

Most Romantic Neighborhood: The Annex The Annex is one of Toronto’s oldest and most atmospheric neighborhoods, just north of Queen’s Park and adjacent to Yorkville. Popular with students from the University of Toronto and with immigrants from all over the world, the streets here are lined with gorgeous Victorian mansions and there are some delightful places to stay. You can catch a documentary at the historic Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema, or check out the whimsical collections at the Bata Shoe Museum.

Best Neighborhoods for Nightlife: West Queen West and King Street West
Good bars and clubs are spread out across the city, but the Westside is your best bet for a good night out. West Queen West, broadly the strip of Queens Street west of Bathurst, is home to numerous bars as well as some conveniently located hotels.

Central Toronto (Downtown)

• Distillery District: This historic area, with its cobblestone streets and Victorian-era buildings, is home to numerous chic cafes, artisanal eateries, and fine dining establishments.
• St. Lawrence Market: One of the world’s great markets, each merchant is an expert in their field and they are always available to share their knowledge.
• Financial District: Amidst the skyscrapers, you’ll find upscale restaurants and trendy eateries catering to the business crowd and theater-goers.
• Entertainment District: A hotspot for modern restaurants, chic bars, and clubs. Ideal for pre- or post-show meals given its proximity to many of Toronto’s theaters and performance venues.

Kensington Market: A bohemian neighborhood with a mix of vintage shops, galleries, and diverse eateries. From vegan cafes to international food stalls, there’s something for every palate.

Queen Street West: Known for its hipster vibe, this stretch offers everything from gourmet doughnut shops to contemporary restaurants and international cuisines.

Yorkville: Toronto’s upscale shopping and dining district. Here, you can find luxury restaurants, chic cafes, and international cuisines in a posh setting.

The Danforth (Greektown): Renowned for its Greek restaurants, cafes, and pastry shops. However, in recent years, it has diversified and now offers a broader range of international cuisines.

Chinatown: Along Spadina and Dundas West, this bustling area is perfect for those craving authentic Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai dishes.

Little Italy: Centered around College Street, it’s the go-to spot for Italian cafes, restaurants, and gelato shops, though it also offers a range of other international cuisines.

Toronto’s diverse culinary scene reflects its status as one of the most multicultural cities in the world. Whether you’re in the mood for gourmet poutine, spicy curries, or artisanal pastries, Toronto’s got you covered. Enjoy your gastronomic journey through this vibrant city.

CN Tower: Once the world’s tallest freestanding structure, it offers panoramic views of the city. Daredevils can also try the EdgeWalk, where they walk on the tower’s outer ledge while tethered to an overhead rail!

Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Canada’s largest museum of world cultures and natural history, the ROM showcases everything from dinosaur skeletons to ancient Egyptian mummies.

Distillery District: A historic and pedestrian-only area with cobblestone streets, unique boutiques, galleries, and eateries. It’s especially charming during the Christmas season with its market and festive decorations.

Toronto Islands: Just a short ferry ride from downtown, the islands offer beautiful views of the city skyline, sandy beaches, and lovely walking and cycling paths.

St. Lawrence Market: One of the world’s best food markets, it’s a great place to sample Canadian and international delicacies, from peameal bacon sandwiches to artisanal cheeses.

Casa Loma: A historic castle in the heart of Toronto, it features elegant rooms, secret passages, and beautiful gardens. It provides a glimpse into the lavish life of early 20th-century Toronto.

High Park: Toronto’s largest public park, it offers a zoo, multiple hiking trails, sports facilities, and beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring.