Toronto

Canada

The most diverse city on earth, and it shows on every plate

About Toronto

Toronto makes a convincing case for being the world's most multicultural city, and the food scene reflects this with extraordinary breadth. Kensington Market is a bohemian food neighbourhood unlike anything in North America. Chinatown, Koreatown, Little Italy, Little Portugal, and the St. Lawrence Market all sit within a reasonable walk of each other. In summer, the waterfront comes alive; in winter, the PATH underground network connects 30km of shops and restaurants below the frozen streets. The CN Tower is worth it once; the city's neighbourhoods are worth it every day.

Highlights

  • St. Lawrence Market — one of the world's great covered food markets, open since 1803
  • Kensington Market — vintage shops, global street food, and zero corporate chains
  • Distillery District — Victorian industrial architecture turned arts neighbourhood
  • Toronto Islands — 15 minutes by ferry, car-free, views of the skyline
  • Spadina Avenue dim sum — authentic yum cha in one of North America's best Chinatowns
  • Graffiti Alley (Rush Lane) — 500 metres of continuously repainted street art
Ava

Plan My Trip with Ava

Ava builds you a personalised travel plan for this city.

Start Planning →

Neighbourhoods

Queen West
Trendy, artsy, indie shops and vibrant nightlife
Best for boutique shopping, live music, street art, hip cafés
Distillery District
Historic cobblestone charm with galleries and festivals
Best for photography, craft cocktails, seasonal markets, cultural events
Kensington Market
Eclectic, bohemian, global food and vintage finds
Best for international eats, thrift shopping, people-watching, indie cafés
The Annex
Academic, leafy, bookish with Victorian homes
Best for bookstores, cozy pubs, university vibes, historic architecture
Liberty Village
Modern, industrial-chic with tech and creative energy
Best for brunch spots, coworking spaces, breweries, urban cycling
St. Lawrence Market Neighbourhood
Old Toronto, bustling market and historic landmarks
Best for foodie adventures, local produce, heritage walks, family outings

Practical Info

Entry

Entry rules depend on your nationality. Check before you travel: Government of Canada (IRCC)

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but some cash is useful for small vendors.

Tipping

Tipping is customary in restaurants and bars and for services such as taxis or hairdressers. Hotel porters expect a small tip per bag.

Safety

Toronto is generally safe, but petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas like public transit or tourist spots—keep valuables secure.

SIM / Data

Local SIMs from Rogers, Bell or Telus are sold in their stores; eSIMs are also available.

Language

English is the primary language, and it is widely spoken, though French is also an official language but less commonly used in Toronto.

No traveller tips yet. Be the first to share one.

Related Guides

Know this city?

Share a tip.

Questions about Toronto? Ask Ava →