In 2017, the beautiful city of Toronto hosted a record number of 43,000,000 visitors. People head to Toronto from all over the world to experience the nightlife, world-class sporting events and entertainment, great restaurants, and an urban vibe that is completely unique to the city. What’s more, the pace of tourists doesn’t seem to be slowing down any time soon. If you are one of the millions of people who plan on visiting the Hogtown in the coming months, follow this helpful guide to get the most from your trip.
Visit at the Right Time of Year
Toronto winters are brutally cold, with quite a bit of snow and sub-zero temperatures. So, while a winter holiday might seem appealing, it’s best to visit between May and November, when the city is greener, warmer, and more pleasant to experience on foot. Keep in mind that this is peak tourist season, so rates will be a little higher overall, but this way, you’ll really be able to experience all of the culture that Toronto has to offer.
Remember Your Passport or Visa
If you’re visiting from the US or most countries in the EU, you will not need a visa to visit Toronto unless you plan to stay for more than six months. Just bring your passport with at least one empty page, and keep in mind that your passport must be valid for at least one day beyond your scheduled departure date.
Use Public Transit
The TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) consists of four subway lines, as well as streetcars buses. They run on regular schedules and will get you everywhere you need to go within the city. And, because parking can be scarce (and expensive) downtown, they are really your best bet. Buy a reusable PRESTO card for unlimited rides so that you don’t have to fumble with change or tokens every time you ride.
Explore Life Outside of Toronto
While you won’t need a car to get around inside the city, you should definitely rent one to visit the surrounding areas. Tourists often take day trips to Niagara from Toronto, but if you’re in the mood for something different, head to Vaughn. With attractions like Canada’s Wonderland amusement park, and Black Creek Pioneer Village, you’ll probably want to find a hotel and stay for a couple of days.
Relax on the Beach
You might be surprised to learn that Toronto has several beaches. The most popular is Sugar Beach, complete with sand, sun, water, and plenty of tourists in the summer. Or, you can take a short ferry ride to the Toronto Islands, where the beaches even have a gorgeous view of the city itself.
No matter what, you’re sure to have a great time during your stay in Toronto. If you take some time to plan your trip before you go, you can really make the most of your time in the city and have an unforgettable experience. Book a hotel, stroll through the city, and enjoy everything Toronto has to offer.