I’ve visited Toronto many times, but I still get giddy thinking about standing on the glass floor of the soaring CN Tower and gazing down at the sparkling city. Toronto offers the best of Canada—a blend of culture and people that is at the core of the Canadian identity, while still being surrounded by nature. Enjoy culinary adventures, cultural experiences, and the quintessential warmth of a Canadian welcome. Whatever your interests, Canada’s largest city delivers.
Expect hot humid summers, freezing-cold winters, and don’t forget your raincoat.
If you only have time for one thing, make it Kensington Market.
Begin the day in the Harbourfront neighborhood, with views over the water and plenty of trendy brunch spots. The Harbourfront Centre hosts a roster of cultural festivals and events, and a number of waterfront parks invite you to relax on a sunny day, or get a new view of the skyline with a harbor cruise.
In the afternoon, make your way to the nearby CN Tower, which offers expansive views over the city and lake—stepping onto the glass observation floor adds to the thrill. For a unique view, take an aerial tour via small plane.
Explore the neighborhoods of Kensington Market and Chinatown for an immersion in Canadian multiculturalism. Both destinations are a paradise for food lovers, especially the specialty shops of Kensington Market and bakeries of Chinatown. Discover how they emerged into two of Toronto’s most exciting neighborhoods with a guided walking tour of the area, or take a food tour to try Torontonian classics.
In the evening, head down to Queen West (named the second coolest neighborhood in the world by Vogue) to dive into Toronto’s enviable nightlife.
Get out of the city with a day trip to Niagara Falls. Once you explore the park and take in the waterfall views, head out to the surrounding area, which boasts elegant wineries and biking trails. You can catch a bus from the city, or take the hassle out of travel with a guided tour.
Otherwise, discover Niagara wine country and tour local vineyards. The region is famous for its ice wine production—a sweet dessert wine that’s not to be missed.