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Things to Do in Toronto, Canada
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Plan language: EnglishMost popular attractions in Toronto, Canada
Things to do in Toronto, Canada include exploring the CN Tower, which offers panoramic views from its observation deck 553 meters high. Art and history lovers can visit the Royal Ontario Museum with over six million items. The Distillery District invites visitors to stroll cobblestone streets lined with boutiques and cafes.
1. CN Tower
A visit is worthwhile because of the spectacular views. Experience an exciting glass floor walk high above the city.
Quick facts: The tower measures 553 meters and was the tallest freestanding structure in the world from 1976 to 2010. Over 2 million people visit it annually to see the city from a bird's-eye view.
Highlights: High above the streets there is a glass floor platform where visitors can look directly down, a thrill for those who are not afraid of heights. A special attraction is the EdgeWalk tour: visitors walk outside on a 1.5 meter wide ledge around the top of the tower, 356 meters above the ground.
2. Royal Ontario Museum
Discover millions of years of history and creative cultures. Experience impressive works of art and captivating exhibits from around the world.
Quick facts: The collection includes over 13 million objects from natural history, art, and culture. About 1.35 million people visit the museum in a single day, which was expanded with a striking glass structure.
Highlights: An extraordinary piece is the sceptre of the moon, an ornate scepter from ancient Egypt with delicate inlay work. The museum's crystal architecture stretches across the museum square like a shimmering diamond, offering a fascinating contrast to the historic buildings.
3. Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
Here you dive into a world with over 20,000 marine animals. Experience sharks and jellyfish up close in exciting underwater tanks.
Quick facts: Over 20,000 marine creatures live in huge aquariums, including sharks, jellyfish, and seahorses, showcasing the fascinating underwater world up close. A special tunnel with a 2.5 million liter tank allows visitors to see sharks and stingrays swimming overhead.
Highlights: The 97-meter-long glass tunnel is a highlight where sharks swim right above your head, almost as if you were underwater yourself. In the medusarium, jellyfish glow in soft colors, creating an almost hypnotic effect and magical moments.
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Toronto, Canada, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
4. Toronto Islands
Perfect retreat from the city hustle and bustle with pure nature and charming cottages. Experience active relaxation on bike tours and relax on the lakeshore with a grand skyline.
Quick facts: This island group consists of 15 small islands and attracts about 2.5 million visitors annually. The islands offer 20 kilometers of bike paths and welcome visitors with car-free streets, ideal for relaxing.
Highlights: A special charm lies in the historic cottages, some over 100 years old, which create a village atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy views over Lake Ontario, with skyline panoramas that are especially spectacular at sunset.
5. Distillery District
Unmatched atmosphere in hundred-year-old factory buildings. Enjoy art galleries, boutiques and specialty restaurants in a unique setting.
Quick facts: Over 40 handcrafted buildings made of red brick stand on a 13-hectare area that once housed the Gooderham & Worts distillery. More than 3 million people visit the district annually to experience art, culture, and culinary offerings.
Highlights: The cobblestones crunch underfoot while hundreds of festively lit lanterns highlight the centuries-old industrial charm. The air often smells of freshly baked bread and specialty beers from small breweries that are brewed in historic copper kettles.
6. Casa Loma
Immerse yourself in a 98-room castle full of history and secrets. Experience magnificent halls and exciting hidden tunnel passages.
Quick facts: A castle with 98 rooms, including towers and vaults, built by a businessman as a private residence. It also includes a whimsical garden and a secret tunnel network that was once meant to ensure discretion.
Highlights: A real curiosity is the vaulted halls with twelve-meter-high ceilings and a mechanical pipe organ instrument with over 10,000 parts. Especially exciting is the secret tunnel that connects the castle to the garages and conveys a real sense of adventure.
7. Hockey Hall of Fame
Why is it worth a visit? Dive into the history of ice hockey and experience the legendary Stanley Cup up close.
Quick facts: More than 1,000 exhibits tell the story of ice hockey, including the legendary Stanley Cup. Visitors can experience original player jerseys, old equipment, and interactive games.
Highlights: At the center stands the original Stanley Cup in all its glory, surrounded by interactive media that bring the history of ice hockey to life. You can even play on a replica NHL rink and feel like a pro.
8. Toronto Eaton Centre
A shopping center that offers more than just shopping. Discover the huge glass dome and experience unique architecture.
Quick facts: With over 230 stores, the shopping center attracts around 50 million visitors annually. The impressive glass dome over the main promenade is one of the largest of its kind in the world and creates a light-filled shopping experience.
Highlights: At the heart of the shopping center is the spectacular "Flying Saucer", a round glass structure that attracts visitors and serves as a popular meeting point. The Centre also houses the original Hudson's Bay Company flagship store, which has been part of the local culture for decades.
9. St. Lawrence Market
Over 120 vendors offer fresh specialties. Enjoy the taste of the original with the famous Peameal Bacon Sandwich.
Quick facts: Here you will find over 120 vendors offering fresh foods and specialties. Every Saturday, more than 30,000 visitors come to discover handmade products and delicacies.
Highlights: A real highlight is the historic market building with its high ceilings and the Victorian archway from 1902. Visitors can try the famous 'Peameal Bacon Sandwich' here, a true local favorite that you won’t find tasting the same anywhere else.
10. High Park
Perfect place to relax and explore. Experience dreamy cherry blossoms and diverse wildlife up close.
Quick facts: The park houses over 1,600 hectares of green space with hiking trails, gardens, and a small zoo. More than 7 million people visit annually to escape the city.
Highlights: In spring, about 1,500 cherry trees bloom in the park, creating a picturesque pink cloud that floats over the walking paths. A special natural phenomenon is the untouched Grenadier Pond, where rare turtle species live and can be observed.
Where to Stay in Toronto, Canada
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Traditional Sweet Dishes
Butter Tart
A quintessential Canadian dessert, butter tarts are especially popular in Toronto, known for their rich, buttery filling and flaky pastry crust.
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Most popular day trips
Niagara Falls
Iconic waterfalls with boat tours and scenic views.
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Use the UP Express train for a quick 25-minute ride from Pearson Airport to downtown.
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Comments (7)
Loved walking around neighborhoods like Kensington Market, tons of cool shops and cafes. The city isn’t cheap though so budget accordingly.
Toronto has such a vibrant vibe, loved the mix of cultures and amazing street food. Weather was a bit unpredictable but manageable. Would stay at least a week to soak it all in.
If you want to save money, grab a PRESTO card for public transit. Way cheaper than buying single tokens and it’s super easy to use on buses and subways.
Avoid eating right by the CN Tower or Rap tours, prices are inflated. Head a few blocks east for authentic and much cheaper bites, locals know this trick.
I expected more green spaces, but the waterfront parks are lovely. Weather was chilly in late fall when I went. Two or three days is enough if you’re tight on time.