Toronto is a vibrant capital city situated along the northwest coast of Lake Ontario. Being Canada’s largest city, Toronto has become a virtual urban jungle where tall buildings are the norm. The iconic CN Tower stands alone as an example. Toronto also has many green spaces, including the organized oval-shaped Queen’s Park and her 400-acre High Park, surrounded by sports facilities, trails, and a zoo.
Vast lush greenery abounds in Toronto, such as High Park, which features a zoo, walking trails, and lovely cherry blossoms in the springtime. This place is excellent for those who enjoy nature. The Toronto Islands are a tranquil haven with beaches and picnicking spots, and they are simply a short ferry trip away.
Sports enthusiasts may capture games at Scotiabank Arena, the Raptors and Maple Leaf’s hometown, or the Rogers Centre, home of the Blue Jays. The Eaton Centre and the posh Yorkville neighbourhood will appeal to shoppers.
Toronto’s diverse dining options, covering everything from street cuisine to gourmet dining, reflect the city’s global population. The city’s culinary scene is a testament to its rich cultural tapestry. Toronto is an absolute must-visit location for any food enthusiast, given its welcoming environment and diverse dining options.
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Flights To Toronto Guide
There are multiple airport alternatives for travellers departing from the UK and travelling to Toronto. The major airports in the UK providing flights to Toronto are as follows:
- London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
- London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
- Manchester Airport (MAN)
- Birmingham Airport (BHX)
- Glasgow Airport (GLA)
- Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
Airlines such as British Airways, Air Canada, and WestJet offer direct flights from the UK to Toronto, while Lufthansa and American Airlines offer connecting flights. Direct flights could take up to 8 hours, and depending on the layover duration, connecting flights could take 10 to 15 hours.
The primary airport for passengers to arrive at is Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), 22 kilometres northwest of downtown Toronto and includes various amenities, including food, shopping stores, and transit. Alternatively, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ), on the Toronto Islands near downtown, offers regional flights and is feasible for those planning to stay in the city centre.
The best time to book flights to Toronto is 6-8 weeks before your travel date. Doing this makes you stand a high chance of getting better deals at reasonable prices for your journey. In addition, one must be flexible regarding travel dates and watch for price changes as they fluctuate from period to period.
Woking Travel provides easy transportation from Toronto airports to your accommodation, ensuring a smooth journey. Our service promises an easy and seamless beginning to your journey. Visit our website’s Transfers page to schedule your transfer and obtain more information.
Woking Travel offers a range of accommodations to your destination. You can explore hotels by visiting our Hotels page at Hotels-Woking Travel or explore our holiday packages at Packages-Woking Travel.
To make your stay in Toronto memorable, it is important to choose your accommodation wisely. Various types of hotels range from budget-friendly options to luxury establishments, catering to every preference and budget. Top among them include:
1. Four Seasons Hotel Toronto: Located in Yorkville, an upscale neighbourhood, Four Seasons Hotel Toronto offers lavish accommodations and commendable services. With chic rooms, spa facilities, fine dining, and a 5-star rating, it appeals to discerning travellers who seek sophistication combined with comfort.
2. Shangri-La Hotel Toronto: This 5-star urban haven boasts spacious rooms and suites, world-class spas such as Miraj Hammam Spa by Caudalie Paris, and culinary delights served at Bosk Restaurant, which is recognised for outstanding service quality, location, good value, clean facilities, amenities, and food rooms.
3. Fairmont Royal York: This downtown Toronto landmark mixes historical appeal with modern luxury. It’s a popular choice among travellers who want to experience the 5-star grandeur, dine in upscale restaurants and have easy access to critical sites like Union Station and the CN Tower.
4. 1 Hotel Toronto: Situated in the bustling Financial District, 1 Hotel Toronto provides eco-friendly accommodations designed with style and sustainability in mind. In addition to organic dining options, guests can enjoy panoramic views from its rooftop and various wellness activities offered at this centrally placed 5-star property.
5. The Hazelton Hotel: The Hazelton Hotel is a 5-star boutique luxury hotel located in the trendy neighbourhood of Yorkville. It offers chic accommodation, personalised services, and an excellent spa. It’s an ideal place for those seeking chicness and privacy while staying in Toronto.
6. InterContinental Toronto Centre: Situated in the heart of downtown Toronto, InterContinental Toronto Centre boasts elegant rooms with amazing views, excellent service, and proximity to major attractions such as Ripley’s Aquarium or the CN Tower. Visitors will enjoy fine dining at Azure Restaurant & Bar and relaxation at the spa at this 4-star lodge.
7. One King West Hotel & Residence: One King West Hotel and Residence is located in a historic building in the Financial District. It blends modern comforts with heritage charms. Its spacious suites provide a stunning city view, making it suitable for business and leisure travellers.
8. The Broadview Hotel: Situated in the Riverside neighbourhood of Toronto, The Broadview Hotel offers a mix of old charm and new style. The stylish rooms have a rooftop bar that provides panoramic views and an energetic atmosphere.
9. Hotel X Toronto: It is at the waterfront, with amazing views of Lake Ontario and the city’s skyline. It offers luxurious accommodations, multiple dining options, and unique features like a rooftop pool and cinema. This is a place where people who want to relax when they are in Toronto go.
10. Victoria’s Mansion Guest House: In the centre of Toronto, Victoria’s Mansion Guest House offers a beautiful substitute for traditional hotels.
The TTC administers a comprehensive transit system in Toronto that includes buses, streetcars, and subways. Regional services like GO Transit are also operational. Furthermore, locals and visitors can easily access on-demand conveyance via taxis and ride-sharing services. Here’s a dive into details:
- Toronto Transit Commission (TTC): The TTC runs an expansive system of streetcars, buses, and subways throughout the city. It’s the most prevalent kind of public transit in Toronto.
- Subway: There are four underground lines in Toronto: Line 1 (Yonge-University), Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth), Line 3 (Scarborough) and Line 4 (Sheppard). It’s a fast and straightforward means to get from one area to another.
- Buses and Streetcars: The broad network of buses and streetcars run by the TTC covers areas not accessible by the subway system. These buses and streetcars provide access to a range of locations and points of attraction.
- GO Transit: GO Transit, which Metrolinx runs, provides local railway and bus services connecting Toronto with neighbouring cities and suburbs. This is practical for commuters and tourists venturing outside the town.
- Union Pearson Express (UP Express): Toronto Pearson International Airport and Union Station, located downtown Toronto, are connected by a specialised airport train service. The rail provides secure and quick transportation from the airport to the city core.
- Taxis and Ridesharing: In addition to the numerous taxis that can be spotted throughout the city, Toronto also has ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft that offer efficient transit options.
- Cycling and Walking: Cycling is an established means of transportation in Toronto thanks to the city’s sprawling system of bike lanes and trails. Rental bikes can be found at multiple locations throughout the city courtesy of bike-sharing initiatives like Bike Share Toronto. In addition, many of Toronto’s neighbourhoods include areas designated for pedestrians, along with crosswalks and well-kept sidewalks.
Here are the tourist destinations that provide visitors with lifetime memories in Canada’s largest city by exhibiting Toronto’s rich heritage, culture, and natural splendour.
- CN Tower: From its observation deck, the CN Tower, an internationally recognised symbol of Toronto’s skyline, provides incredible city views and beyond.
- Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): The ROM is Canada’s largest museum, concentrating on culture, craft, and history. Its collection of artefacts and exhibitions spans the globe.
- Toronto Islands: The Toronto Islands, an oasis of tranquillity just an hour’s ferry journey from downtown Toronto, offer beautiful beaches, parks, and recreational opportunities.
- Distillery District: This historic vicinity is eminent for its fascinating cobblestone streets, Victorian-era buildings, and vibrant arts setting.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: Established at the base of the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium is home to thousands of marine animals worldwide.
- St. Lawrence Market: St. Lawrence Market, one of the finest food marketplaces in the world, has a dynamic ambience and a vast variety of fresh fruit, meats, cheeses, and exotic foods.
- Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): With more than 90,000 pieces of artwork from various time periods and places, the AGO is an essential stop for art collectors and enthusiasts.
- High Park: High Park, the largest public park in Toronto, is equipped with playgrounds, tennis courts, beautiful walking pathways, and lush green areas.
- Toronto Zoo: With over 5,000 animals from over 450 species, the Toronto Zoo offers visitors of all ages an exciting wildlife experience. The zoo’s exhibits showcase global ecosystems and biodiversity, from African savannas to Arctic tundras.
- Casa Loma: This spectacular castle-turned-museum, with its luxurious interiors, exquisite lawns, and excellent architecture, provides an insight into Toronto’s past.
Toronto has as many dining options as it does inhabitants; world-class eating experiences abound here for every taste imaginable. There are choices for all palettes, ranging from Gourmand’s Heaven to small cosy cafes and ethnic food joints, not forgetting some of the best restaurants one can visit while in Toronto, such as:
- Canoe Restaurant & Bar: Canoe Restaurant & Bar, located on the 54th floor of TD Bank Tower, provides breathtaking views of the skyline and a menu that highlights Canadian cuisine with a modern twist. The ambience is classy, while service delivery is top-notch.
- Richmond Station: This intimate restaurant near Toronto’s Financial District prides itself on its farm-to-table approach and seasonal menu. Chef Carl Heinrich, winner of “Top Chef Canada” season 2, creates delicious dishes that defy tradition at Richmond Station’s relaxed eatery.
- Grey Gardens: Grey Gardens is an elegant Kensington Market neighbourhood establishment offering small plates and natural wines worldwide; trendy eaters and oenophiles frequently return to enjoy its creative offerings.
- Alo Restaurant: Alo stands out among other eateries in downtown Toronto due to its location in a historic building and its commitment to serving French delicacies. Chef Patrick Kriss’s tasting menu uses the finest locally sourced ingredients, creating an atmosphere of elegance and precision.
- Byblos: Byblos is located in the entertainment district and boasts a vibrant, lively ambience, fantastic food and a chic interior design inspired by diverse flavours from the eastern Mediterranean. It is frequented by locals who want to try something exotic and visitors.
- Scaramouche Restaurant: Scaramouche Restaurant, well-known for its elegant ambiance and stunning panorama of the city skyline, offers excellent dining with a menu that incorporates European and present-day Canadian influences.
- Edulis: Based in the Trinity-Bellwoods neighbourhood, this small eatery focuses on seasonal tasting menus, including locally acquired products and flavourings from the Mediterranean.
- Yasu: Yasu, a secluded gem in the Harbord Village neighbourhood, is the perfect spot for an intimate omakase-style dining experience. The sushi and sashimi here are not just dishes but fine works of art, meticulously prepared to perfection.
- Bar Isabel: Influenced by the vibrant tapas bars of Spain, Bar Isabel serves a broad selection of Spanish wines and cocktails along with a menu of shareable plates with unique takes on traditional Spanish cuisine and robust flavour combinations.
- Canis: Canis is a hip West Queen West neighbourhood restaurant serving contemporary Canadian cuisine. Its tasting menu showcases creative dishes highlighting the variety of Canadian flavours and ingredients.
Toronto offers visitors an array of attractions suitable for every interest and taste bud imaginable. From cultural landmarks to natural wonders – there is always something for everyone in this dynamic city. Some of the best things to do in Toronto include visiting.
- CN Tower: The CN Tower is one of Toronto’s most iconic landmarks and a must-visit attraction on your trip. The observation deck offers breathtaking city views; you can even take an EdgeWalk around the tower.
- St. Lawrence Market: To taste Toronto’s gastronomic wonders, visit St. Lawrence Market, one of the world’s best food markets. Feast your eyes on its vibrant stalls filled with fresh produce, artisanal items, and foods from around the globe.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: Immerse yourself in a world beneath the waves at Ripley’s Aquarium, where over 20,000 marine animals are on display. The aquarium has many captivating exhibits, including Dangerous Lagoon, which takes you through an acrylic tunnel with sharks swimming around you.
- Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Explore art, culture, and natural history at ROM, one of Canada’s premier museums. The museum boasts an extensive collection that spans different civilisations and periods, offering visitors a fascinating journey through time.
- Toronto Islands: To escape city noise, catch a ferry to the Toronto Islands. There, you can find serene parks, sandy beaches, and beautiful trails providing panoramic views of the downtown skyline and Lake Ontario.
- Distillery District: Walking through the cobblestone streets of the Distillery District will transport you back in time. This pedestrian-only enclave is home to charming shops, art galleries, and renowned restaurants that exude historical charm and creative energy.
- High Park: High Park, Toronto’s largest public park, offers a way to experience nature’s beauty within the city. Get lost in beautiful greenery or hike through scenic trails to see incredible gardens, including one with cherry blossoms.
- Hockey Hall of Fame: The Hockey Hall of Fame celebrates Canada’s national sport. Visitors can explore interactive displays, examine famous souvenirs, and test their skills at the NHLPA Game Time interactive zone.
- Casa Loma: Casa Loma is a grand castle located in the centre of Toronto. Wander its luxurious rooms, stroll through well-kept gardens, or climb up to the top for stunning views across the city.
- Steam Whistle Brewery Tour: Toronto has a rich brewing history; find out why with a tour of Steam Whistle Brewery. Understand how beer is crafted locally at this brewery before imbibing from the taps yourself while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Toronto’s weather and seasons transition, depending on the time of year, providing a range of divergent experiences and activities to carry out:
- Spring (March to May): Temperatures in springtime range from 8°C to 20°C (46°F to 68°F) and may come along with occasional rainfall. Visitors can enjoy outdoor pursuits, including cycling, hiking, and picnicking. Take advantage of the exclusive and cheapest flight deals to Toronto in spring, as it falls outside of the peak travel season.
- Summer (June to August): In summertime, temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) with warm and sunny weather. During the summer, the city is abuzz with outdoor festivals, concerts, and events. Toronto’s waterways, beaches, and outdoor patios are lovely locations for visitors to take in the sights. They can also enjoy street markets and annual cultural events. Summer typically encounters the highest airfare due to it being the peak tourism season.
- Fall (September to November): Toronto experiences more pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage in the fall season, with highs often ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). With the best fall foliage, it is a great time to visit Toronto’s parks, enjoy scenic drives, and trek. Harvest festivals, pumpkin picking, and seasonal food events are all open to visitors. Fall season, like springtime, also offers low airfares to Toronto.
- Winter (December to February): Toronto encounters a chilly and snowy winter with highs of 23°F to 37°F (-5°C to 3°C). Winter activities in Toronto include attending winter festivals such as Toronto Christmas Market, touring holiday marketplaces, and going ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square.
Before planning your trip and setting any dates, it would be helpful checking out the Toronto Weather Guide and Forecast for any transitions in the weather.
- Standard Time: Toronto runs on Eastern Time (ET), which is UTC-5 during Standard Time (EST). UK (GMT) is UTC+0. Hence, Toronto is 5 hours behind the UK.
- Daylight Saving Time: Toronto (EDT) is 5 hours behind the UK during DST, as well.
Currency:
- The currency used in Toronto is the Canadian Dollar (CAD), symbolised as $, C$, or CAD. Moreover, both cash (in Canadian Dollars) and cards (credit/debit) are generally accepted, with card payments being more common.
Language:
- The primary language spoken in Toronto is English, but French is also Canada’s official language. Hence, bilingual signs and services exist, but English predominates in Toronto.
Local Customs:
Tipping between 15% and 20% is standard in Toronto for restaurants, cabs, and other services. Being considerate is highly regarded, and expressions like “please,” “thank you,” and “sorry” are used often. The city’s appreciation of multiculturalism makes tolerance for many cultures and customs crucial. Furthermore, homeowners are motivated to observe local recycling. Environmentalism is highly valued.
Laws:
Tourists may refer to these websites to learn more about the laws pertaining to travelling to Toronto.
Toronto promises a unique experience unparalleled by any other. Every nook and cranny of this vibrantly multicultural city whispers tales of inclusivity and diversity. A plethora of experiences await you, from iconic sites like the CN Tower to hidden treasures in quaint neighbourhoods. Immerse yourself in a top-tier food scene that will appeal to your palate, and indulge in boundless artistic and cultural expression. Every interaction in Toronto is a push to broaden one’s horizons, since the city embraces both heritage and innovation. Toronto’s allure doesn’t seem to cease and is just waiting to be explored by the inquisitive traveller, whether they choose to take leisurely strolls through bustling streets or find comfort in peaceful and lush green lawns. Toronto beckons—embrace the unforeseen, and let the city unravel its wonders, one adventure at a time.
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