Toronto Travel Guide
Contents
- Toronto — A Waterfront Metropolis on Lake Ontario
- Toronto and Its Antipode
- The City
- Top Things to Do in Toronto
- Do and See
- Dining in Toronto
- Cafés in Toronto
- Bars & Nightlife
- Shopping
- Tourist Information
Toronto — A Waterfront Metropolis on Lake Ontario
Toronto is Canada’s largest city and one of North America’s most multicultural urban centres. Situated on the northern shore of Lake Ontario, the city blends high-density urban life with extensive green spaces, waterfront parks, and neighbourhoods shaped by immigration and cultural exchange.
With a population exceeding 4.5 million in the greater metropolitan area, Toronto is both a financial hub and a cultural crossroads. Its skyline continues to evolve, defined by modern architecture, historic districts, and a dynamic relationship with the lake that brings openness and seasonal rhythm to the city.
Toronto and Its Antipode
Every place on Earth has an antipode — the point directly opposite it on the globe, connected by a straight line passing through the Earth’s core.
Toronto’s antipode lies in the southern Indian Ocean, far from any major landmass. Unlike many Southern Hemisphere cities whose antipodes fall in the North Atlantic, Toronto’s opposite point highlights its position deep within the Northern Hemisphere and away from oceanic dominance.
This contrast reinforces Toronto’s identity as a continental city — inward-facing, dense, and shaped by land-based movement rather than maritime isolation.
The City
Toronto is the capital of Ontario and the most populous city in Canada. Its many districts — from downtown and the waterfront to Chinatown, Little Italy, Greektown, and Kensington Market — each carry distinct cultural identities.
The city’s location on Lake Ontario moderates its climate and provides access to beaches, islands, and waterfront trails. Toronto hosts festivals year-round, offers extensive arts and entertainment options, and serves as a gateway to nearby destinations such as Niagara Falls.
Top Things to Do in Toronto
Niagara Falls
One of the world’s most famous natural landmarks, located near the Canada–United States border and easily accessible as a day trip from Toronto.
CN Tower
Toronto’s most recognisable landmark, featuring observation decks, panoramic views, and a revolving restaurant high above the city.
Royal Ontario Museum
One of North America’s largest museums, showcasing art, archaeology, natural history, and science exhibitions.
Toronto Zoo
Canada’s largest zoo, featuring animals housed in naturalistic environments across multiple themed regions.
Distillery Historic District
A preserved Victorian industrial district filled with galleries, cafés, restaurants, and cultural venues.
Casa Loma
A Gothic Revival castle overlooking the city, open to visitors and frequently used as a film location.
Toronto Islands
An island archipelago just offshore, offering beaches, bike paths, and quiet green space with skyline views.
Chinatown
A vibrant district known for its markets, herbal medicine shops, tea houses, and diverse dining options.
Hockey Hall of Fame
A museum and hall of fame celebrating the history of ice hockey, including the Stanley Cup.
Ontario Science Centre
An interactive science museum with hands-on exhibits, IMAX films, and educational programs.
Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
A family-friendly aquarium featuring underwater tunnels and diverse marine life.
Canada’s Wonderland
A large amusement park north of the city with roller coasters and a water park.
Dundas Square
A brightly lit public square often compared to Times Square, located in the heart of downtown.
The Absolute Towers
Distinctive residential towers known for their twisting architectural form.
Humber Bay Arch Bridge
An award-winning pedestrian and cycling bridge with views of the waterfront.
Do and See
Sugar Beach
A waterfront urban beach near the financial district, popular in summer months.
Simcoe WaveDeck
A sculptural public space inspired by lake waves, located along the waterfront.
Sherbourne Common
A park combining green space with public art and storm-water infrastructure.
Brookfield Place
An architectural complex known for art installations and modern design.
Allan Gardens Conservatory
A series of historic greenhouses housing tropical and exotic plant species.
BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
A hand-carved Hindu temple showcasing traditional craftsmanship and design.
Dining in Toronto
Toronto’s dining scene reflects its extraordinary cultural diversity, offering cuisine from nearly every region of the world.
- Michael’s on Simcoe
- Madrina Bar y Tapas
- C’est What?
- Farm’r Eatery & Catering
- Sotto Sotto
- Café Sassafraz
- Lee
- Canoe
- The One Eighty
- 360 Restaurant
- Terroni
- Barque Smokehouse
Cafés in Toronto
Cafés throughout Toronto reflect the city’s multicultural neighbourhoods and coffee culture.
- Café Diplomatico
- Moonbean Coffee Shop
- Café Balzac
- Il Fornello on the Danforth
- Uncle Betty’s Diner
- Pizzeria Libretto
- The Rooster Coffee House
- Snakes & Lattes
Bars & Nightlife
Toronto’s nightlife spans pubs, live music venues, cocktail bars, and late-night clubs across multiple districts.
- Village Idiot Pub
- Dog & Bear
- Pravda Vodka Bar
- WVRST
- The Reservoir Lounge
- Tallboys
- The Rex
- Horseshoe Tavern
Shopping
Toronto offers extensive shopping options, from luxury boutiques to markets and large malls.
- Bloor Street & Yorkville
- Queen West
- Kensington Market
- Eaton Centre
- Chinatown
- Yorkdale Shopping Centre
- Vaughan Mills
- Square One
- Sherway Gardens
- Toronto Premium Outlets
Tourist Information
Toronto is served by Lester B. Pearson International Airport, one of North America’s busiest airports, with extensive international and domestic connections.
Public transport is operated by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), providing subway, streetcar, and bus services throughout the city.
Electricity in Canada is 110 volts / 60 Hz, using North American plug types.
