Reviewed by our editorial team Updated
Discover the Best Things to Do in Toronto
Toronto is Canada’s largest city and one of North America’s most exciting destinations, offering a blend of world-famous landmarks, outstanding museums, beautiful waterfront parks, vibrant neighbourhoods and unforgettable food experiences. Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or planning a week of sightseeing, you’ll find enough attractions to keep every day packed with new experiences.
The city’s compact downtown makes it surprisingly easy to explore. Many of Toronto’s biggest attractions are within walking distance of one another, while an excellent public transport network and seasonal harbour ferries make it simple to venture further afield. You can spend the morning admiring spectacular views from the CN Tower, walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks at Ripley’s Aquarium, enjoy lunch beside the harbour, then finish the day watching the skyline from a sightseeing cruise on Lake Ontario.
Toronto is also a city that rewards curiosity. Beyond its headline attractions you’ll discover historic castles, internationally renowned museums, sporting icons, colourful markets, peaceful islands, art galleries and lively entertainment districts. The city’s multicultural population has helped create one of the world’s most diverse food scenes, meaning every neighbourhood offers something different to experience.
This guide combines Toronto’s essential attractions with some of its lesser-known highlights, helping you build an itinerary that mixes iconic landmarks with local favourites. Where tickets can be booked in advance, we’ve highlighted the best options to help you save time and avoid disappointment during busy periods.
Experience Toronto from the CN Tower
Standing 553 metres above downtown Toronto, the CN Tower has defined the city’s skyline for almost fifty years and remains the attraction most visitors head for first. Even if you’ve seen countless photographs before arriving, nothing quite prepares you for standing beneath one of the tallest free-standing structures in the world.
The tower’s observation levels provide breathtaking 360-degree views across downtown Toronto, Lake Ontario, the Toronto Islands and, on exceptionally clear days, as far as Niagara Falls. Visitors can step onto the famous Glass Floor, enjoy panoramic viewing platforms and dine high above the city in the revolving restaurant. Those looking for even more excitement can book the EdgeWalk, where participants walk around the outside of the tower while secured to an overhead safety system.
Even without purchasing a ticket, the surrounding area is well worth exploring. The plaza around the tower is one of Toronto’s busiest visitor hubs, with Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, the Rogers Centre, Harbourfront and several harbour cruise departures all just a short walk away. The tower also looks spectacular after dark, when its programmable lighting transforms the skyline and creates one of the city’s most recognisable night-time views.
Best if you want daily housekeeping and a front desk. Filter by area first, then by price.
Check availabilityBest for groups who want one address and separate bedrooms rather than three hotel rooms.
See holiday homesBest as a last check before booking. Compares Toronto hotel rates across several sites in one search.
Compare ratesCompare Toronto Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours
If you’re hoping to see several of Toronto’s biggest attractions in a single day, a hop-on hop-off bus tour can be a convenient way to get around. Rather than relying on the TTC or walking long distances, you can travel between many of the city’s most popular sights while enjoying commentary about Toronto’s history, architecture and neighbourhoods.
Most routes include stops close to attractions such as the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, St. Lawrence Market, Casa Loma, Harbourfront Centre, the Royal Ontario Museum and the Distillery Historic District. You can leave the bus to explore at your own pace before boarding the next service when you’re ready to continue your day.
Hop-on hop-off buses are particularly useful for first-time visitors, cruise passengers arriving for the day or anyone wanting to maximise their sightseeing without navigating Toronto’s public transport network. However, each operator follows a slightly different route, offers different ticket options and includes different attractions.
Before booking, take a look at our Toronto Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Guide, the routes, stops, ticket prices and what is included, helping you choose the best sightseeing bus for your visit.
Is the Toronto City Pass Worth Buying?
Many of Toronto’s biggest attractions charge separate admission, so costs can add up quickly if you’re planning to visit several during your stay. If your itinerary includes places such as the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, Casa Loma, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada and other major sights, a Toronto City Pass could save you a considerable amount compared with buying individual tickets.
The pass bundles admission to several of Toronto’s top attractions into one convenient ticket, making it particularly worthwhile for visitors spending two or three days exploring the city. As well as saving money, it also simplifies planning by allowing you to organise your sightseeing around one pass rather than purchasing tickets separately for every attraction.
Whether the City Pass represents good value depends entirely on your itinerary. Some travellers will recover the cost after only a handful of attractions, while others may find individual tickets offer better value if they’re only planning to visit one or two major sights.
To help you decide, we’ve created a dedicated Toronto City Pass Guide explaining exactly what’s included, how much you can save, how the pass works and whether it’s the right choice for your trip.
Explore an Underwater World at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
Located immediately beside the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is consistently ranked among Toronto’s top family attractions. Home to more than 20,000 aquatic animals, it combines interactive exhibits with enormous viewing tanks that showcase marine life from around the world.
The highlight for many visitors is the spectacular Dangerous Lagoon, where a moving walkway carries you beneath sharks, rays and giant sea turtles swimming overhead. Elsewhere you’ll find colourful coral reefs, fascinating jellyfish displays, playful sea horses, Canadian freshwater habitats and interactive experiences where younger visitors can safely touch selected marine species.
Because the aquarium is fully indoors, it makes an excellent choice regardless of the weather and can comfortably occupy two to three hours. Its location also makes it easy to combine with the CN Tower, Harbourfront or a sightseeing cruise, allowing you to experience several of Toronto’s biggest attractions in a single day without travelling across the city.
Whether you’re travelling with children or simply enjoy marine wildlife, Ripley’s Aquarium offers one of Toronto’s most memorable experiences and is a fantastic addition to any itinerary.
See Toronto’s Skyline from the Harbour
While Toronto is impressive from street level, the city’s skyline is arguably at its best when viewed from the water. A Toronto Harbour and Islands Sightseeing Cruise offers a relaxing one-hour journey that showcases the city’s famous skyline while exploring the sheltered waterways surrounding the Toronto Islands.
Departing from 145 Queens Quay West, the cruise sails past iconic landmarks including the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and the peaceful island communities that many visitors never see from land. Live onboard narration explains the city’s maritime history, development of the waterfront and interesting local stories, adding plenty of context throughout the journey.
Unlike the public ferry, which simply transports passengers to the islands, this sightseeing cruise is designed entirely around the views. Large open-air viewing areas make it easy to capture stunning photographs, while the calm waters of the harbour create a relaxing break from the busy downtown streets.
For first-time visitors, this is one of the best ways to gain a completely different perspective of Toronto before continuing your sightseeing back on land.
Enjoy a Memorable Meal on Toronto Harbour
If you’re looking for something a little more special than a standard sightseeing cruise, a Toronto Harbour dining cruise combines excellent food with some of the city’s finest views. Whether you choose a brunch, lunch or dinner sailing, you’ll enjoy a leisurely cruise across Lake Ontario while taking in Toronto’s spectacular skyline from the comfort of an elegant dining vessel.
The experience takes place aboard the Toronto Odyssey, where guests are welcomed to a reserved table before sailing past some of the city’s best-known landmarks. Throughout the journey you’ll enjoy views of the CN Tower, Harbourfront Centre, Sugar Beach, the historic Gibraltar Point Lighthouse and the busy waterfront, while freshly prepared meals are served as the city slowly drifts past your window. Spacious outdoor observation decks provide plenty of opportunities to step outside and admire the scenery between courses.
Evening departures are particularly memorable, with Toronto’s skyline gradually lighting up as the sun sets over Lake Ontario. Combined with onboard music and full bar facilities, the atmosphere is far more relaxed than a traditional sightseeing cruise, making it a popular choice for couples celebrating anniversaries, birthdays or simply looking to experience the city from a different perspective.
Although it’s undoubtedly a premium experience, it’s also one of Toronto’s most memorable. If you’re celebrating a special occasion during your visit, few activities combine sightseeing, dining and entertainment quite as effortlessly.
Step Inside the Royal Ontario Museum
The Royal Ontario Museum, often simply called the ROM, is Canada’s largest museum and one of the country’s most important cultural attractions. Instantly recognisable thanks to the striking crystal-shaped extension that projects dramatically from the original historic building, the museum combines natural history, archaeology, art and world cultures under one roof.
Inside you’ll find everything from towering dinosaur skeletons and ancient Egyptian mummies to priceless Chinese artefacts, Indigenous Canadian history and spectacular gemstones. The museum’s galleries span millions of years of history, allowing visitors to travel from prehistoric Earth to some of the world’s greatest civilisations in just a few hours. Temporary exhibitions also ensure there’s usually something new to discover, even for repeat visitors.
Most people spend between three and four hours exploring the museum, although history enthusiasts could easily devote an entire day to its collections. Interactive displays make many galleries particularly engaging for children, while detailed exhibitions appeal equally to adults interested in history, science and archaeology.
Whether you’re escaping a rainy afternoon or simply looking to experience one of Canada’s finest museums, the ROM deserves a place on every Toronto itinerary and remains one of the city’s true cultural highlights.
Best if you can move a day either way. Shows how the fare to Toronto changes across the month.
Compare flightsBest if you want maps and messaging working the moment you switch your phone on.
See eSIM plansBest if you would rather not work out the transport on arrival. Book it now and forget it.
View transfersWander Through the Historic Distillery District
One of Toronto’s most atmospheric neighbourhoods, the Distillery District offers a completely different side of the city. Once home to the largest whisky distillery in the British Empire, this beautifully restored Victorian industrial complex has been transformed into a lively pedestrian district filled with independent boutiques, cafés, galleries, restaurants and public art.
Walking through its cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time. The beautifully preserved red-brick warehouses now house artisan shops, craft breweries and creative studios, while seasonal decorations and outdoor events help create a vibrant atmosphere throughout the year. Street performers are a common sight during the warmer months, adding even more character to the district.
The Distillery District is particularly popular with photographers thanks to its heritage architecture and colourful public spaces. It’s equally enjoyable whether you’re browsing local shops, enjoying a coffee on an outdoor terrace or simply soaking up the atmosphere. During the festive season, the area hosts Toronto’s famous Christmas Market, when thousands of lights transform the district into one of the city’s most magical destinations.
Best of all, it’s completely free to explore, making it an excellent contrast to many of Toronto’s paid attractions. Even if you don’t spend a penny, it’s one of the city’s most memorable places to wander.
Explore Toronto’s Fairytale Castle
Hidden among the streets of midtown Toronto, Casa Loma feels wonderfully out of place. Completed in 1914, this magnificent Gothic Revival mansion was built as the private home of financier Sir Henry Pellatt and today stands as one of Canada’s most extraordinary historic houses.
Visitors are free to explore lavish reception rooms, beautifully furnished bedrooms, secret passageways, soaring towers and elegant gardens, all while learning about the ambitious vision that created this remarkable property. One of the highlights is climbing the towers, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views across Toronto, while the underground tunnel connecting the main house to the former stables adds another fascinating glimpse into life at the estate.
Casa Loma has also become one of Toronto’s most recognisable filming locations, appearing in numerous television series and Hollywood films over the years. Temporary exhibitions and seasonal events, particularly during Halloween and Christmas, give visitors even more reasons to return throughout the year.
Although Toronto is often associated with modern skyscrapers, Casa Loma provides a fascinating reminder of the city’s early twentieth-century ambitions. It’s one of the most distinctive attractions in Canada and a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture or simply exploring somewhere completely unexpected.
Celebrate Canada’s Favourite Sport at the Hockey Hall of Fame
Whether you’re a lifelong hockey fan or know very little about the sport, the Hockey Hall of Fame is one of Toronto’s most entertaining attractions. Located in the heart of downtown, just a short walk from Union Station and the St. Lawrence Market, it celebrates the history, greatest players and unforgettable moments of Canada’s national game through an impressive collection of interactive exhibits.
The museum is home to the legendary Stanley Cup, giving visitors the rare opportunity to see one of the most famous trophies in world sport up close. Throughout the galleries you’ll discover historic jerseys, sticks, medals and memorabilia from hockey’s biggest stars, alongside fascinating displays covering everything from the early origins of the sport to today’s NHL superstars.
Interactive experiences are a major part of the visit. Guests can test their shooting accuracy, face virtual goalkeepers and compare their reactions against some of the world’s greatest players, making the attraction just as enjoyable for children as it is for dedicated hockey supporters. Most visitors spend between one and two hours exploring, although passionate fans could easily stay longer.
Even if hockey isn’t your favourite sport, the Hall of Fame provides a fascinating insight into Canadian culture and explains why the game occupies such a special place in the country’s identity.
Browse the Stalls at St. Lawrence Market
Frequently ranked among the best food markets in the world, St. Lawrence Market has been at the heart of Toronto’s food scene for more than two centuries. With hundreds of independent traders selling everything from artisan cheeses and fresh seafood to handmade pastries and international delicacies, it’s one of the city’s most enjoyable places to explore.
The market is divided across several historic buildings, with the South Market attracting most visitors thanks to its colourful collection of food stalls, cafés and speciality shops. It’s also the perfect place to sample local favourites, including Toronto’s famous peameal bacon sandwich, which has become something of a culinary institution among both locals and visitors.
Beyond the food, St. Lawrence Market offers a glimpse into everyday life in Toronto. Office workers stop by for lunch, local residents collect fresh produce, while visitors browse the countless independent traders looking for unique gifts and gourmet treats. The atmosphere changes throughout the day, making every visit slightly different.
Whether you’re looking for breakfast, lunch or simply somewhere to soak up Toronto’s multicultural food scene, St. Lawrence Market deserves a place on every itinerary and is one of the city’s best free attractions.
See Canada in Miniature at Little Canada
One of Toronto’s newest and most imaginative attractions, Little Canada allows visitors to explore the country from coast to coast without ever leaving the city. This remarkable miniature world recreates many of Canada’s most famous landmarks and landscapes in extraordinary detail, combining traditional model-making with clever lighting, moving vehicles and interactive displays.
Each region has been painstakingly recreated, from the busy streets of Toronto and Niagara Falls to the mountains of Western Canada, the historic buildings of Quebec and the rugged coastlines of the Atlantic provinces. Thousands of tiny figures bring the displays to life, with humorous scenes and hidden details rewarding anyone who takes the time to look closely.
One of the attraction’s most popular features is the changing day-and-night cycle. Every few minutes the lights dim, buildings illuminate and vehicles continue moving through miniature streets, creating an entirely different atmosphere before daylight gradually returns. It’s an impressive technical achievement and one of the highlights of the visit.
Suitable for both adults and children, Little Canada is unlike any other attraction in Toronto. Most visitors spend around 90 minutes to two hours exploring the exhibits, making it an ideal indoor activity at any time of year.
Discover Masterpieces at the Art Gallery of Ontario
The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of North America’s finest art museums, housing an outstanding collection that spans more than 90,000 works of art. Housed within a striking building redesigned by internationally acclaimed architect Frank Gehry, the gallery combines impressive architecture with an equally remarkable collection.
Visitors can admire works by celebrated Canadian artists including the Group of Seven, alongside masterpieces by Picasso, Van Gogh, Monet, Rubens, Henry Moore and many other internationally renowned names. Extensive Indigenous and contemporary Canadian collections provide additional insight into the country’s artistic heritage, while rotating temporary exhibitions ensure there’s always something new to discover.
The gallery’s bright, open spaces make it an enjoyable place to spend several hours, whether you’re an experienced art lover or simply curious to explore one of Toronto’s leading cultural institutions. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the city, while cafés and quiet seating areas provide welcome places to pause between exhibitions.
Conveniently located close to Kensington Market and Chinatown, the AGO is easy to combine with a leisurely afternoon exploring some of Toronto’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, making it one of the city’s most rewarding cultural experiences.
Best if you would rather spend the money on Toronto than on the room. Compare hostels by location and rating.
Search hostelsBest arranged before you fly rather than after. Covers claim handling, plus lounge access on eligible delays.
Explore AirHelp+Best for a day with a bag and nowhere to put it. Find a storage point near where you already are.
View storageExplore the Fascinating Bata Shoe Museum
One of Toronto’s most unusual attractions, the Bata Shoe Museum proves that almost any subject can become fascinating when it’s presented well. Home to more than 13,000 shoes and related artefacts, the museum explores over 4,500 years of history, using footwear to tell stories about fashion, culture, sport, royalty and everyday life around the world.
The collection ranges from elegant European designer shoes and Indigenous Canadian footwear to ancient Egyptian sandals, military boots and celebrity-owned pieces. You’ll also find footwear belonging to famous athletes, performers and historical figures, alongside exhibitions examining how shoes have reflected changing cultures, technologies and lifestyles throughout history.
Although relatively compact compared with some of Toronto’s larger museums, the Bata Shoe Museum is beautifully curated and easy to explore in one to two hours. Interactive displays and regularly changing exhibitions ensure there’s always something new to discover, making it an excellent option whether you’re interested in fashion, history, anthropology or simply looking for something a little different.
Located close to the Royal Ontario Museum, the museum is easy to combine with several other attractions in the area, creating an enjoyable day of cultural sightseeing without travelling across the city.
Escape to the Toronto Islands
Just a short ferry ride from downtown, the Toronto Islands feel like a completely different world. This peaceful chain of small islands offers sandy beaches, waterfront trails, picnic areas, gardens and some of the best views of Toronto’s skyline, making it one of the city’s favourite escapes during the warmer months.
Unlike many major cities, Toronto has managed to preserve these islands as recreational spaces rather than allowing them to become heavily developed. Visitors can spend the day cycling along quiet paths, renting kayaks or paddleboards, relaxing on the beach or simply enjoying a picnic while watching boats pass through the harbour. Families often head to Centre Island, home to Centreville Amusement Park, while photographers frequently make their way to Ward’s Island for its spectacular skyline viewpoints.
The islands are also home to one of the world’s largest car-free communities, creating a wonderfully peaceful atmosphere that’s difficult to believe exists just minutes from downtown Toronto. Ferries depart regularly from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal, with journeys taking around 15 minutes, making the islands an easy addition to almost any itinerary.
Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, a quiet afternoon away from the city or simply the perfect place to photograph Toronto’s skyline, the Toronto Islands are an essential part of any visit.
Discover Toronto’s Creative Side in Kensington Market
Few places capture Toronto’s multicultural spirit better than Kensington Market. This colourful neighbourhood is packed with independent cafés, vintage clothing stores, record shops, bakeries, international food outlets and street art, creating one of the city’s most vibrant and characterful districts.
Walking through Kensington Market is less about following a sightseeing route and more about exploring whatever catches your eye. One street might be lined with Latin American restaurants, the next with artisan bakeries, while hidden courtyards reveal murals, local artists and quirky independent businesses. The area has long been a centre for creativity and diversity, attracting visitors looking for something beyond Toronto’s major tourist attractions.
Food is one of Kensington Market’s biggest draws. With influences from across the globe, it’s one of the best places in Toronto to sample authentic international cuisine without travelling far between restaurants. Whether you’re craving tacos, Caribbean dishes, Asian street food or fresh pastries, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.
The neighbourhood is also within easy walking distance of Chinatown and the Art Gallery of Ontario, making it easy to combine several of Toronto’s most interesting districts into a single afternoon of exploring.
Take in the Views Along Toronto’s Harbourfront
Stretching along the edge of Lake Ontario, Harbourfront is one of Toronto’s most enjoyable places for a leisurely walk. Wide promenades, marinas, public art installations, cafés and green spaces combine to create a lively waterfront that’s popular with both locals and visitors throughout the year.
From here you’ll enjoy some of the city’s finest views, with the CN Tower rising above the skyline while ferries and sightseeing boats move between the mainland and the Toronto Islands. During the summer months the area comes alive with outdoor concerts, cultural festivals, food events and open-air performances, while winter brings seasonal activities and festive displays.
Harbourfront is also one of Toronto’s main transport hubs for visitors. Sightseeing cruises, dining cruises and the Toronto Islands ferries all depart nearby, making it an ideal place to begin or end a day exploring the city. Benches and waterside cafés provide plenty of opportunities to simply sit and watch the activity on the harbour while enjoying the changing views across Lake Ontario.
Whether you’re taking photographs, enjoying an evening stroll or preparing to board a cruise, Harbourfront perfectly showcases Toronto’s close relationship with the water and remains one of the city’s most relaxing places to spend a few hours.
Relax in High Park
Covering almost 400 acres, High Park is Toronto’s largest public park and the perfect place to escape the city’s busy streets. Located in the west end of the city, it combines woodland trails, open meadows, landscaped gardens, sports facilities and lakeside scenery into one of Toronto’s favourite outdoor spaces.
The park is perhaps best known for its spectacular cherry blossom trees, which burst into colour each spring and attract thousands of visitors from across Canada. Outside blossom season there’s still plenty to enjoy, including walking trails, ponds, picnic areas and extensive green spaces where locals gather to relax throughout the warmer months. Families will also find playgrounds, a small zoo and plenty of open space for children to explore.
High Park is particularly beautiful during autumn when the changing leaves transform the landscape into shades of gold, orange and crimson. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful morning walk, somewhere to enjoy a picnic or simply a break from the city’s skyscrapers, it’s one of Toronto’s most rewarding free attractions.
Experience the Buzz of Nathan Phillips Square
Located directly in front of Toronto City Hall, Nathan Phillips Square is one of the city’s best-known public spaces and a natural gathering point for visitors. It’s instantly recognisable thanks to the large illuminated TORONTO sign, which has become one of the city’s most photographed landmarks and is particularly striking after dark.
Throughout the year the square hosts concerts, cultural festivals, food events and public celebrations, creating a lively atmosphere regardless of when you visit. During the winter months the reflecting pool transforms into a popular outdoor ice skating rink, while summer sees visitors relaxing beside the fountains and enjoying performances in the open-air event space.
Because it’s centrally located, Nathan Phillips Square is easy to combine with attractions such as the Eaton Centre, Old City Hall, St. Lawrence Market and the Hockey Hall of Fame. It’s also one of the best places to pause during a day of sightseeing and simply watch Toronto’s multicultural population go about their daily lives.
Whether you’re taking photographs beneath the famous sign or attending one of the many events held throughout the year, Nathan Phillips Square provides a wonderful introduction to modern Toronto.
Watch the City Come Alive in the Entertainment District
As daylight fades, Toronto’s Entertainment District becomes one of the liveliest parts of the city. Centred around King Street West and the area surrounding the CN Tower, it’s home to theatres, live music venues, rooftop bars, comedy clubs, restaurants and several of Toronto’s biggest sporting venues.
This is where you’ll find the Rogers Centre, home of the Toronto Blue Jays, together with Scotiabank Arena, where the Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Raptors play their home games. Even if you’re not attending an event, the atmosphere before and after games is infectious, with thousands of supporters filling nearby restaurants, bars and public spaces.
The district also offers an impressive range of dining options, from casual eateries to award-winning restaurants serving cuisine from around the world. Theatre lovers can enjoy Broadway productions and locally produced performances, while rooftop terraces provide spectacular evening views across the illuminated skyline.
Whether you’re planning a memorable dinner, hoping to catch a sporting event or simply looking for somewhere lively after a day of sightseeing, the Entertainment District offers something for every type of visitor.
Planning Your Toronto Sightseeing
Toronto’s attractions are spread across several distinct areas, but careful planning makes it easy to see many of the city’s highlights without spending hours travelling between them. A popular first day combines the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, Harbourfront and a Toronto Harbour Cruise, with all four attractions located within easy walking distance of one another.
Another excellent day focuses on the city’s cultural attractions, pairing the Royal Ontario Museum, Bata Shoe Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario and Kensington Market before finishing with dinner in nearby Chinatown. History lovers can combine Casa Loma with a visit to High Park, while food enthusiasts should allow plenty of time to explore St. Lawrence Market and the Distillery District.
If you’re visiting during the warmer months, don’t overlook the Toronto Islands, where beaches, walking trails and spectacular skyline views provide a relaxing contrast to the busy city centre. Evening visitors should also consider a Toronto Harbour dining cruise, which combines fine food with unforgettable views of the illuminated skyline.
With a little planning, it’s perfectly possible to combine Toronto’s iconic landmarks, fascinating museums, beautiful waterfront and vibrant neighbourhoods into an itinerary that showcases exactly why it’s regarded as one of Canada’s greatest cities.
Rupert’s Handy Travel Tips
Planning a full day of Toronto sightseeing? Here are a few tips to help you make the most of the city’s attractions.
- Book CN Tower tickets ahead: the observation deck sells out on busy days, and pre-booking lets you skip a long queue at the entrance.
- Buy a Toronto City Pass first: if you’re planning to visit several paid attractions, bundling admission in advance can save you a noticeable amount.
- Use the PATH in winter: Toronto’s underground walkway links dozens of downtown buildings, hotels and Union Station, making it an easy way to stay warm between attractions.
- Check free-admission days: several museums and galleries, including the AGO, offer free or discounted entry on certain evenings, so it’s worth checking before you buy a ticket.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Toronto’s downtown attractions are close together on a map, but a full day of sightseeing still adds up to plenty of walking.
Want to meet the reindeer behind our travel tips? Find out more in our page Who is Rupert?.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need in Toronto?
To experience Toronto’s main attractions without feeling rushed, three to four days is ideal. This gives you enough time to visit iconic landmarks such as the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, the Royal Ontario Museum, Casa Loma, St. Lawrence Market, the Toronto Islands and several of the city’s distinctive neighbourhoods.
What is Toronto’s most famous attraction?
The CN Tower is Toronto’s most recognisable landmark and dominates the city’s skyline. Visitors can enjoy spectacular panoramic views from its observation decks, while the surrounding area is also home to attractions such as Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada and the Rogers Centre.
Is Toronto an expensive city to visit?
Toronto can be expensive, but there are plenty of ways to keep costs down. Many of the city’s best experiences, including Harbourfront, Kensington Market, Nathan Phillips Square, High Park, the Distillery District and the Toronto Islands, can be enjoyed for little or no cost, allowing you to balance paid attractions with free sightseeing.
Is the Toronto CityPASS worth buying?
If you’re planning to visit several of Toronto’s major paid attractions, a sightseeing pass can offer excellent value. Compare the attractions included with the places you actually want to visit before deciding whether it’s worthwhile for your itinerary.
Can you explore Toronto without a car?
Yes. Toronto has an excellent network of subways, streetcars and buses, while many of the city’s biggest attractions are concentrated within the downtown area. Visitors can comfortably explore most of Toronto without hiring a car.
Are the Toronto Islands worth visiting?
Absolutely. The Toronto Islands offer beautiful beaches, walking and cycling trails, picnic areas and some of the finest views of the Toronto skyline. They’re a popular escape from the busy city centre, particularly during spring and summer.
What is the best family attraction in Toronto?
Families are spoiled for choice, but Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, Little Canada, the Royal Ontario Museum and the Toronto Islands are among the city’s most popular attractions for children.
When is the best time to visit Toronto?
Late spring, summer and early autumn generally offer the best weather for sightseeing, harbour cruises and visiting the Toronto Islands. Winter can also be rewarding, with festive events, ice skating at Nathan Phillips Square and excellent indoor attractions.
Further Reading
Planning to explore more of Toronto and southern Ontario? Our Ultimate Toronto Travel Guide is the perfect starting point, covering the city’s top neighbourhoods, attractions, transport, restaurants and practical travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.
If you’re flying into Canada, our Toronto Airport to Downtown Guide explains every way to travel from Pearson International Airport into the city, including the UP Express, GO Transit, TTC buses, taxis, ride-hailing services and private transfers.
Looking to venture beyond the city? Our Best Day Trips from Toronto guide features unforgettable destinations including Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Hamilton, Blue Mountain, Prince Edward County and more, whether you’re travelling by car, train or organised tour. If Niagara Falls is the main event, our dedicated Toronto to Niagara Falls guide covers the train, bus and driving options in more detail.
To make getting around easier, our GO Trains Toronto Guide explains the regional rail network, including routes, ticket options and the best journeys for visiting places outside the city centre. If you’re planning to visit several major attractions, don’t miss our Toronto City Pass Guide, where we explain what’s included, how much you can save and whether it’s worth buying before your trip.
Want to see the city without relying on public transport? Our Toronto Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Guide compares routes, stops, ticket options and sightseeing highlights, helping you decide whether a hop-on hop-off pass is the right way to explore Toronto.
Flying into Canada rather than starting a road trip? Our Air Canada Travel Guide covers routes, the Star Alliance network and the Aeroplan loyalty programme, useful reading if you’re booking flights alongside the rest of your Toronto trip.
