Toronto

Travel tips and cool things to do in Toronto

Toronto is one of the most multi-cultural cities in the world, and the biggest, busiest in Canada. Close to 3 million people live in this modern metropolis, where arts and entertainment, food and drink and cultural festivities reflect Indigenous history and waves of immigration from every country you can name.

If you are thinking of going, you may have questions about cool things to do in Toronto, off-the-beaten path experiences, cool bars or affordable spas. I’m here to help!

My travel tips for Toronto come from first-hand experience: it’s been my hometown for more than 20 years. I’ve lived at Church and Wellesley in the East and Parkdale in the West, had fun in pretty much every neighbourhood in between.

I treat my blog readers like a friend visiting from out of town—honest reviews, helpful info, geared to your budget—and I’m so excited to share with you my favourite museums, parks, bike trails, live music venues, festivals, and more.

Five reasons to visit Toronto

1. World class arts and culture: film, theatre, live music, comedy, we have it all.
2. Lake Ontario views and Toronto Islands day trips
3. Food. Every cuisine and culture, from street food to Michelin star restaurants.
4. Niagara Falls is just 2 hours away
5. If you’re from the USA or Europe, your $$ will be worth more here in Canada.

How to get around in Toronto

Toronto is big, and spread out. If you love to get your steps in, take a long walk along the waterfront, Queen Street West, or the Distillery District. But most attractions are spread out across different neighbourhood so you’ll likely need a ride at some point.

Toronto public transit (The TTC) is…. OK. It will get you where you need to go via subway, streetcar or bus for $3.30 a ride (good for up to 2 hours, including transfers.) But expect delays and detours. Tap with your credit or debit card, or load a Presto card (avail at subway stations.)

Uber and Lyft are available pretty much everywhere, all the time. If you prefer a local taxi, look for companies like Beck and Diamond. If the light on the roof is on, it should be available (but don’t be surprised if they drive right past.) They can often be found waiting at Union Station, in front of downtown office towers, hotels and hospitals.

Bike Share is one of my fave ways over getting around the city. Rent a bicycle for the day for $15—you unlock and ride, then return to the closest docking station. Or pay per minute. Some ebikes are available. You’ll need a mobile phone with data to use it.

Safety Tips for Toronto

As a single woman, I generally feel safe out and about alone in Toronto. And in 2024, a Forbes report called Toronto the 3rd safety city for tourists in the world. So use your common sense, trust you gut and the same safety precautions you would take anywhere, and you will most likely encounter no problems. (And if you need safety travel tips, I wrote a whole book!)

However, I take caution and precautions when travelling on subways and other public transportation. LIke most cities, Toronto has experienced an increase in metal health and addiction crisis, and that can sometimes converge on public transit. I recommend not wearing earbuds, using the Designated Waiting Areas, and giving any ranting and raving person a wide berth.

I also advise female friends to beware the “Pick-up artist” bros who tend to hassle women who look alone in public. On the other side, we have amazing world-class hotels with very cool bars where you can hang out at night safely and not miss a thing.

This blog focuses on finding strange and unusual attractions to share with you and Toronto has plenty! So read on for reviews and tips for cool things to do in Toronto. I hope they inspire you to come for a visit.

My travel tips and picks for the best of Toronto