Greater Toronto Area

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The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is centred on the city of Toronto, in Ontario's Golden Horseshoe. It is not legally defined but is used as a catch-all reference, and extends west to include Mississauga and Oakville, and east to include Ajax, Pickering, and Whitby.

Regions

  City of Toronto (the six former boroughs of Toronto, York,North York, East York, Scarborough and Etobicoke in area code +1 416)
  Durham
  Halton (previously Halton County)
  Peel
  York

Muslim Friendly Cities in Greater Toronto Area

Greater Toronto Area Halal Travel Guide

Greater Toronto is by far Canada's most populous urban area, with 6.4 million inhabitants; nearly half of Ontario's population.

Get in

By public transportation

GO Transit runs commuter trains and buses between Toronto and its suburbs. Most train routes only operate during rush hour and are replaced by coach services at other times. The exceptions are the Lakeshore East and West rail lines, which run all day and on weekends from Aldershot to Oshawa. GO Trains as well as a few GO bus routes run to Union Station in downtown Toronto, which is connected to a subway station with the same name. Most GO buses run to Yokdale or York Mills stations on the Yonge-University-Spadina subway line or Scarborough Centre on the Scarborough RT line.

VIA rail operates intercity trains Toronto-Windsor, Toronto-Kingston-Ottawa and Toronto-Kingston-Montreal as part of its coverage of the beaten-path Windsor-Quebec corridor. There are onward connections in Montreal for Québec City. A trip across Canada by train requires three legs, Halifax-Montreal, Montreal-Toronto and Toronto- Sudbury - Vancouver. Ontario Northland used to run trains north from Toronto's Union Station, but this has been discontinued and replaced with intercity bus.

Grey Line, an intercity bus operator, is based in Toronto; there are also Megabus (Coach Canada) running eastward to Cornwall or Montreal, Greyhound to Ottawa -Gatineau and intercity buses to North Bay and to Buffalo - Niagara.

Mississauga is home to Toronto Pearson International Airport, Canada's busiest airfield.

Get around

How to take public transportation in Greater Toronto Area

GO Transit operates the GO Transit|commuter transit services serving municipalities within and near the GTA. It operates 7 commuter rail lines, radiating from Union Station at the base of Toronto's financial neighborhood. The Lakeshore West and Lakeshore East lines operate every day from 6AM to 1AM between Burlington and Pickering. Three other lines have limited mid-day service to Unionville (Markham), Aurora and Brampton. Otherwise, all other GO rail destinations are commuter-oriented, inbound to Union Station during morning rush hour and outbound during evening rush hour. GO buses often complement GO Transit rail service for destinations or time periods not covered by GO trains. Many GO bus route originate at four stations along subway Line 1 Yonge–University; they are Union Station, Yorkdale, York Mills and Highway 407.

There are various local transit operators to serve the different municipalities within the GTA. The TTC is the largest, running all the Toronto#Get around|buses, streetcars and subways within Toronto. York Region Transit operates York (Ontario)#Get around|buses in York Region, to the north of Toronto. YRT also runs 6 bus rapid transit lines, known as VIVA; most connect to a TTC subway station. Durham Region Transit operates Durham (region, Ontario) service in Durham Region, east of Toronto, serving cities and towns between Toronto and Oshawa. MiWay operates bus service in Mississauga to the West of Toronto. Most of its services are centred on the Plaza One Shopping Centre and many of its routes connect to ubway Line 2 Bloor–Danforth at Islington station. Also, to the West of Toronto and there are three small cities (Brampton, Oakville and Burlington) that have there own local bus systems.

Toronto Pearson International Airport|Toronto International airport (IATA Flight Code: YYZ) in Mississauga is served by GO commuter buses (to Yorkdale/York Mills), Mississauga, Brampton and Toronto local buses and a TTC bus (at regular fare, $3.25) directly to TTC's Kipling subway station in Toronto/Etobicoke. There's also the UP-Express, a train direct to Union Station in Toronto/Downtown with on-board wi-fi ($12, $9 with a Presto card).

All the above services use the Presto card, which is particularly useful if you plan to use more than one of the above transit services. The Presto card entitles the user to various discounts and privileges. It also eliminates the hassle to carry exact change for each trip and it simplifies transfers, as fare rates and transfer rules vary for each local transit operator. Note: Using the Presto card twice on the UP-Express will pay for the $6 up-front cost of the card. The Presto card is also valid in Ottawa and Hamilton. If you are a senior, be sure to have your card set up for senior fares.

Presto card

The regional transportation agency, Metrolinx, operates the Presto farecard system which allow users to pay transit fares throughout the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area as well as in Ottawa. Using the card always provides a discount from the cash fare. Presto will simplify transfers between GTA transit systems, and provide discounts when transferring between GO Transit and another GTA system using Presto. Presto saves the hassle of carrying exact cash coin fare, or finding a vendor selling strips of tickets for each operator. Tickets/tokens for one operator are not valid for another; however, Presto is valid for all operators supporting Presto. Some transit systems have phased out tickets forcing the use of exact cash, passes or Presto.

Here are the transit operators using Presto:

Transit and Zum buses

Transit

Transit (east of Toronto)

Transit

  • OC Transpo (buses and O-Train in Ottawa)
  • Toronto Transit Commission (buses, streetcars and subway)
  • UP Express (trains between Pearson International Airport and Union Station)
  • York Region York (Ontario) | York Region

Transit north of Toronto (YRT and Viva buses)

Presto is not valid for Via Rail trains nor for intercity bus routes not operated by GO Transit.

You can buy a Presto card for $6 (non-refundable) plus a minimum $10 balance. Cards can be ordered by phone (+1 877-378-6123) or en/shopping/order-a-card online for mailing within 10 business days but only within Canada. Presto cards can also be purchased from the following vendors:

  • Tickets/UpPrestoPDF UP Express service counter at Pearson International Airport sells Presto cards for adults and seniors.
  • The GO Transit service counter at Union Station and the TTC Client Service Centre at Davisville subway station.
  • Many participating Shoppers Drug Mart stores.
  • Fare Vending Machines at TTC subway stations sell Presto cards for adult fares only.
  • Hamilton GO Centre in downtown Hamilton

Senior citizens (65+): when or after you buy a Presto card, have the card set up for senior fare discounts. The GO Transit service counter at Union Station can do this, as can Shoppers Drug Mart stores. You may be required to show a government-issued document (e.g. passport) to prove you are not as young as you look.

At subway and GO stations and there are Presto machines to display the card balance and to load more money onto your Presto card.

GO Transit

GO Transit operates a system of regional trains and buses within and near the Greater Toronto Area. Many of these services, especially trains, are oriented to weekday commuters travelling to and from downtown Toronto. Trains are large and comfortable. From Toronto Union Station, trains run every 30 minutes to Pickering and Burlington, every 60 minutes to Oshawa, and every 60 minutes on workdays only to Unionville (Markham), Aurora (Ontario) | Aurora and Brampton. For tourists and visitors, GO Transit offers the Rail travel in Niagara Seasonal GO Train Service to Niagara Falls during the summer. Other GO train routes operate only in the peak direction during rush hours. The GO bus network is much more extensive and fills in for trains in the off-peak hours. The vast majority of tourist destinations are reachable by TTC, although you might want to use the GO network to get to the Toronto Zoo, or elsewhere the Greater Toronto Area.

In many cases, a GO bus will not stop unless you indicate you want to be picked up, even if you are standing at a bus stop. You must flag the bus down by raising their hand or ticket in the air as the bus approaches.

GO fares are the same on buses and trains, and are distance-based. Fares for seniors (65+) cost 50% of regular fares. Children 12 & under can ride for free on all GO Trains and buses. Presto card users get a discount of about 10% for using Presto instead of one-trip tickets. When transferring between GO Transit and a local transit operator to complete a trip, you may be eligible for a fare discount called the GO co-fare. For Presto users and the discount is automatic after completing the transfer between GO Transit and any local operator using Presto. Co-fare conditions vary by local transit operator.

If you use the Presto card for fare payment, you must tap the card in at the start of the trip, and tap out at the end. If you transfer between a GO train and a GO bus, or between two GO buses, you must tap off the first vehicle before tapping onto the next. For GO trains, clients tap in and out at the station entrance/exit. For GO buses, you must tap both on and off inside the bus door. Remember to tap off when you disembark in order to avoid paying an excessive fare. For GO Transit and the Presto card must have a minimum balance of $5.30 (as of 2022). To cancel a trip after tapping in but before departing, press the "correction" button on the reader and then tap again.

GO bus drivers accept cash to pay the fare when boarding a GO bus at a stop away from a ticket office or ticket vending machine. However, bus drivers do not accept debit/credit cards, nor bills over $20 in denomination, and smaller bills are preferred. At bus terminals and GO train stations, GO fare vending machines accept debit/credit cards; however, some might not accept cash.

GO trains operate on the Proof-of-Payment system; passengers must possess a valid ticket or a tapped-in Presto card for the entire length of their journey before boarding a train. Tickets cannot be purchased on board, and there are no gates or staff before boarding to ensure you have a fare for a particular train. GO Transit enforcement officers conduct random inspections of tickets, issuing expensive fines to anyone without the correct fare.

Each GO train has a Client Service Ambassador, who is responsible for making station announcements, answering questions, and dealing with emergencies. The CSA is stationed in the Accessibility vehicle (the 5th vehicle behind the locomotive).

Here are a few tips for using the GO Transit trip planner. If you are departing or arriving at Toronto (downtown), enter "Union Station" rather than "Toronto". "Union Station GO" is the train station, "Union Station Bus Terminal" is for GO buses, "UP Express Union Station" is for the airport train and "UNION STATION TTC" is the TTC subway station, all four of which are in close proximity. For downtown Hamilton, select "Hamilton GO Centre". Most GO train stations are identified by station name followed by the acronym "GO". Thus, "Newmarket GO" is the GO train station in Newmarket (Ontario) | Newmarket while "Newmarket GO Bus Terminal" is 2KM east of the train station.

What to see in Greater Toronto Area

  • Black Creek Pioneer Village, a living museum in Toronto/North York near York University.
  • Casa Loma in Toronto, an impressive castle once owned by the proprietor of a local electric company in the early days of electrification of the city, now restored to that historical time period and opened for tours and events.
  • The CN Tower in Toronto/Downtown near the Skydome, as North America's tallest free-standing structure.
  • Old Oakville has a few small buildings restored to the pioneer era, with costumed interpreters.
  • Ontario Science Centre, in Toronto/North York, is an extensive hands-on educational museum.
  • Parkwood Estate Gardens in Oshawa, a grand private estate featuring architectural, landscape and interior designs of the early twentieth century English Arts and Crafts period. Now operates as a museum.
  • Toronto Zoo, a tautology, occupies a huge area in the east side of Toronto/Scarborough with many exotic animals.
  • Unionville Main Street historic village, first developed in the 1840s in what was then Markham

Township. As typical of a small village, it boasts numerous quaint period buildings in an idyllic surrounding.

What to do in Greater Toronto Area

  • Canada's Wonderland, a Cedar Fair theme park in Vaughan
  • Watch live theatre in Toronto/Downtown or sports teams such as the Toronto Blue Jays or (just for laughs) the Toronto Maple Leafs
  • Ontario Place and the Canadian National Exhibition as amusement park and fairgrounds on the west side of downtown Toronto
  • Public beaches in the Toronto Islands and east of the city
  • Woodbine Raceway, a major horse racing venue in Toronto/Etobicoke

Local events in Greater Toronto Area

  • Caravan, an extensive Folklore festival in which various pavilions scattered across the city represent individual countries
  • Caribana, a black Caribbean festival
  • A huge travel| Pride Festival and parade, usually near the end of June, brings several hundred thousand people
  • Santa Claus Parade, Yonge Street, late November

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Greater Toronto Area

The busy main street of Toronto, Yonge Street, draws a more diverse collection of merchants with more independents than the malls.

There is a very authentic Chinatown in Toronto/Downtown, near the Kensington Market neighborhood. The Pacific Mall in Markham is also very Asian in character.

Toronto was once headquarters for two rival national department store chains, Eaton's and Simpsons, which both have either closed or been merged into other chains. The largest malls are the Toronto Eaton Centre and Hudson's Bay Centre in Toronto/Downtown, Yorkdale Mall at 401 and Allen Road in Toronto/North York and the Scarborough Town Centre in Toronto/Scarborough, Sherway Gardens in Toronto/Etobicoke and Plaza One in Mississauga.

Pickering (Ontario) operates an extensive indoor flea market on weekends.

Muslim Friendly Food & Restaurants in Greater Toronto Area

Because of strong and growing immigrant communities, ethnic foods in Toronto are of good quality and comparable to those of the respective home countries. Greek food on Danforth Avenue or Chinese foods in the various Chinatown neighborhoods, among others, are prepared by cooks and chefs from those countries and entice expatriates to visit the city for a "taste of home".

Entire books have been written as collections of reviews of Toronto-area restaurants, which span every segment from takeaway foods to the most expensive of haute cuisine. Within the City of Toronto, very high standards protect food safety and restaurateurs are legally required to post the results of regular inspections.

Toronto is home base to the Loblaw supermarket chain, one of the big three nationally (its rivals Métro from Montreal and Sobey's from Nova Scotia are also widely present). Loblaws city markets tend to be large stores with an assortment of sidelines, ranging from clothing to housewares.

Buy Muslim Friendly Condos, Houses and Villas in Greater Toronto Area

eHalal Group is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Greater Toronto Area. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Greater Toronto Area ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Greater Toronto Area. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Islam in Toronto

Here, we explore some notable mosques in Toronto that reflect the diversity and unity within the Muslim community.

1. Masjid Toronto @ Adelaide

Address: 86 Adelaide St E, Toronto, ON M5C 1K6, Canada

Masjid Toronto @ Adelaide is a prominent mosque situated in the heart of downtown Toronto. The mosque, with its distinctive architecture, serves as a spiritual haven for worshippers in the bustling urban landscape. Its central location makes it accessible to both residents and visitors, fostering a sense of community in the heart of the city.

2. Toronto Islamic Centre & Community Services

Address: 817 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4W 2G9, Canada

The Toronto Islamic Centre & Community Services is not just a place of worship but a hub for community engagement and social services. The center emphasizes the importance of not only spiritual growth but also the well-being of the community at large. Its central location on Yonge Street makes it a focal point for various community activities and events.

3. Madinah Masjid

Address: 1015 Danforth Ave, Toronto, ON M4J 1M1, Canada Phone: +1 416-465-7833

Madinah Masjid stands as a symbol of the diversity within Toronto's Muslim community. Located on Danforth Avenue, the mosque is known for its inclusive atmosphere, welcoming worshippers from various cultural backgrounds. The mosque also plays an active role in community outreach and charitable initiatives.

4. Masjid Toronto

Address: 168 Dundas St W, Toronto, ON M5G 1C6, Canada Phone: +1 416-596-0507

Masjid Toronto, situated near Dundas Street West, serves as a spiritual and cultural anchor for Muslims in the city. With a commitment to fostering understanding and tolerance, the mosque is not only a place of worship but also a venue for educational programs and interfaith dialogue.

5. Masjid Darussalam

Address: 4 Thorncliffe Park Dr, East York, ON M4H 1H1, Canada Phone: +1 416-467-0786

Masjid Darussalam, located in East York, exemplifies the community spirit embedded in Toronto's mosques. The mosque serves as a center for both spiritual and social activities, fostering a strong sense of unity among its diverse congregation.

6. Muslim Prayer Room at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre

Address: 2075 Bayview Avenue ECG 05, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada

Within the Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, a Muslim Prayer Room provides a quiet space for prayer and reflection, catering to the spiritual needs of both patients and healthcare professionals. This inclusion reflects the city's commitment to accommodating diverse religious practices in various settings.

7. Turkish Canadian Islamic Trust

Address: 336 Pape Ave, Toronto, ON M4M 2W7, Canada Phone: +1 416-469-2610

The Turkish Canadian Islamic Trust, located on Pape Avenue, is a cultural and religious center that promotes the Turkish heritage within the Muslim community. Beyond serving as a mosque, the trust is actively involved in cultural events, educational programs, and community outreach initiatives.

Halal Restaurants in Toronto

For those adhering to Halal dietary restrictions, the city offers a plethora of options that cater to various tastes and preferences. In this article, we will explore some noteworthy Halal restaurants in Toronto, each offering a unique blend of flavors that reflect the city's rich cultural diversity.

Umi's Kitchen: Halal Caribbean Delights

Located at 346 Dundas St E, Umi's Kitchen stands out as a gem offering Halal Caribbean cuisine. The restaurant takes patrons on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean, all while adhering to strict Halal guidelines. From jerk Chicken to flavorful seafood dishes, Umi's Kitchen is a delightful spot for those craving a taste of the tropics while maintaining their dietary preferences.

Naan Kabob Afghani: A Culinary Journey to Afghanistan

For Afghani cuisine enthusiasts, Naan Kabob at 691 Yonge St is a must-visit. Known for its authentic Afghani flavors, the restaurant boasts a menu that showcases the diverse and rich culinary heritage of Afghanistan. The warm ambiance and aromatic dishes make Naan Kabob a favorite among those seeking a taste of Afghanistan in the heart of Toronto.

Shah's Halal Food: A Downtown Halal Haven

Situated at 65 Duncan St, Shah's Halal Food has earned a reputation for its delicious offerings and convenient downtown location. With a diverse menu that includes Kebab, biryanis, and other flavorful dishes, Shah's Halal Food caters to a broad range of tastes. The restaurant's popularity is reflected in its impressive 4.1 rating, as reviewed by 272 satisfied customers.

Chamsine Authentic Halal New Cuisine: A Taste of the Mediterranean

Found at 235 Queen St E, Chamsine Authentic Halal New Cuisine transports diners to the Mediterranean with its delectable offerings. The menu features a fusion of Mediterranean flavors, showcasing dishes inspired by Lebanese and other regional cuisines. The restaurant's commitment to using only Halal ingredients ensures that patrons can enjoy their meals with confidence.

Sizzler Kabab: A Spadina Avenue Sensation

Nestled at 381 Spadina Ave, Sizzler Kabab is a go-to spot for those craving mouthwatering Kebab and Middle Eastern delights. Boasting a menu that includes a variety of grilled meats, falafel, and flavorful Sauces, Sizzler Kabab provides a satisfying Halal dining experience in the heart of Toronto.

Lahore Grill & Fast Food Halal Restaurant: (Pakistani) Culinary Delights

Located at 1274 Gerrard St E, Lahore Grill & Fast Food Halal Restaurant is a haven for fans of (Pakistani) cuisine. From succulent Kebab to aromatic biryanis, the restaurant offers a diverse array of dishes that capture the essence of (Pakistani) flavors. The welcoming atmosphere and authentic preparations make Lahore Grill a standout choice for Halal dining.

Almadina Bistro: Casual Afghani Fare in Yorkville

Situated at 10 Edward St, 2nd Floor, Almadina Bistro offers a casual yet sophisticated spot for those seeking Afghani cuisine. With a diverse menu that includes Kebab, stews, and flavorful Rice dishes, Almadina Bistro brings the authentic taste of Afghanistan to Yorkville. The second-floor location provides a cozy and intimate setting for a delightful dining experience.

Toronto's Halal restaurant scene is a testament to the city's multicultural vibrancy. From Caribbean delights to Afghani and (Pakistani) specialties, each restaurant on this list offers a unique culinary journey for those seeking Halal options. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor exploring Toronto's diverse neighborhoods, these Halal restaurants provide a taste of the rich cultural tapestry that makes the city a global culinary destination.

Ramadan in Greater Toronto Area

Ramadan 2025 in Greater Toronto Area

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels in Greater Toronto Area

Toronto never sleeps.

Where to go next after Greater Toronto Area

Oshawa (in the east) and Hamilton (in the west) pretty much pick up where the Toronto sprawl ends, with a bit of overlap.

Some options for further travel include:

  • The Niagara Region - home to the Falls and the Shaw Theatre and many other tourist attractions.
  • Prince Edward County and Eastern Ontario - an opportunity to get out of the city, even pick your own apples and strawberries in season.
  • North of Barrie and the Georgian Bay area is cottage country for many Torontonians

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