Why Go to Toronto
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Toronto is Canada's biggest and most diverse city, a vibrant, welcoming metropolis on the shores of Lake Ontario. More than half its residents were born outside Canada, and that mix of cultures shows up in its neighborhoods, festivals and outstanding food scene.
Ride to the top of the CN Tower, one of the tallest freestanding structures in the world, and step onto its glass floor or EdgeWalk if you're brave. Visit Ripley's Aquarium of Canada next door, the Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario, and explore Casa Loma, a real-life castle in the middle of the city. Wander the historic Distillery District, the colorful shops of Kensington Market and the food stalls of St. Lawrence Market, famous for its peameal bacon sandwich. Take a short ferry to the Toronto Islands for beaches, bike paths and the best skyline view. Sports fans can catch the Blue Jays, Maple Leafs and Raptors, and the Hockey Hall of Fame is a must.
Toronto is a short flight from many U.S. cities and about 90 minutes from Niagara Falls. Bring your passport. I'll plan your stay and a Niagara Falls day trip.
BEST FOR
City explorers, families, foodies and culture seekers
BEST MONTHS
May–October is popular for outdoor neighborhoods and island trips; winter has indoor museum and cultural options.
EXPLORE
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Toronto
North America › Ontario & Quebec › Canada › Ontario
A global city on the shores of Lake Ontario
Lake & River
Diversity
Film
Skyline
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Use transit rather than driving between central attractions, and verify seasonal ferry service before visiting the islands.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Book a timed ticket and check visibility for the best views.
CN Tower
Observation landmark offers far-reaching views over downtown Toronto and Lake Ontario.
Check special exhibitions and set aside several hours.
Royal Ontario Museum
Major museum explores natural history, world cultures, and changing exhibitions.
Check market opening days and go before the lunch rush.
St. Lawrence Market
Historic food market is a favorite stop for artisan foods and local specialties.
Check ferry schedules and weather before leaving downtown.
Toronto Islands
A group of islands near the waterfront offers parks, beaches, trails, and skyline viewpoints.
Check exhibition tickets and public program calendars.
Art Gallery of Ontario
Art museum presents Canadian and international art collections in a distinctive setting.
A landmark hotel near Union Station, particularly useful for guests arriving by rail or using UP Express from Pearson Airport. Central sightseeing and waterfront areas are reachable on foot or transit.
Fairmont Royal York
Financial District / Union Station
Hotel Tags
A luxury hotel in the downtown entertainment and cultural corridor, convenient for major theaters and central attractions. Confirm room orientation and parking charges.
Shangri-La Toronto
Entertainment District / University Avenue
Hotel Tags
A luxury boutique property in Yorkville, suited to travelers who favor galleries, high-end shopping and neighborhood restaurants. The waterfront requires a separate transit or taxi trip.
The Hazelton Hotel
Yorkville / Bloor Street
Hotel Tags
A design-oriented hotel in Toronto’s King West area, convenient for dining and entertainment rather than directly beside the waterfront. Compare the location with your planned attractions.
1 Hotel Toronto
King West / Wellington Street
Hotel Tags
A contemporary upscale property in the Entertainment District near theaters and stadium venues. Confirm the current room category and any event-night traffic considerations.
Bisha, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Toronto
Entertainment District / Blue Jays Way
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Toronto
High 47°F · Low 35°F · Rain 3 in
Cooler evenings favor museums and performances. Explore museums, lakefront neighborhoods and city markets. Seasonal highlight: Toronto International Film Festival, traditionally in September. Planning note: summer festivals, fall color and winter weather.
May–October is popular for outdoor neighborhoods and island trips; winter has indoor museum and cultural options.
Best Times to Visit Toronto
WHEN TO GO
06
Walking and Waterfront
Central neighborhoods and the Harbourfront are suitable for walking. Plan weather-appropriate layers and consider transit for longer cross-city trips.
05
Taxis and Rideshares
Licensed taxis and app-based rides are widely used, but downtown traffic can be heavy. Allow additional airport transfer time.
04
GO Transit and VIA Rail
Regional trains and buses use Union Station as a key hub. Verify whether your excursion is operated by GO Transit or VIA Rail.
03
Subway and Streetcars
The TTC runs subway, streetcar and bus services across Toronto. Use current trip planners for route changes and payment methods.
02
Billy Bishop Airport
The island airport serves selected routes close to downtown. Ground access involves its dedicated pedestrian tunnel or ferry connection.
01
Toronto Pearson Airport
Pearson is the main international airport, and UP Express connects the airport with Union Station. Check service hours and your final hotel connection.
Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) connects to Union Station by UP Express. Use TTC subway, streetcars, and walking for most downtown outings; island ferries run from the waterfront.
Getting Around Toronto
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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