Toronto

Toronto is the most populous city in Canada and the provincial capital of Ontario. It is located on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario. Toronto has a population of 2.7 million, and is the heart of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) containing 6.4 million people. It also anchors the Golden Horseshoe region, which wraps around Lake Ontario from Toronto to Niagara Falls and totals over 9.2 million residents, roughly a quarter of Canada's entire population. Toronto is the fourth largest city and fifth largest urban agglomeration in North America.

Spawned out of post-glacial alluvial deposits and bluffs and the area was populated at different times by Iroquois and later Wyandot (Huron) peoples. European colonial settlement began in the mid-1700s when the French built a seldom-occupied fort near today's Exhibition grounds. The city then grew out of a backwoods English trading post established as York in 1793 (reverting to the current name Toronto in 1834). Later in the 19th century, it grew to become the cultural and economic focus of Canada. Owing largely to the nation's liberal immigration policies starting in the 1960s, and the region's strong economy, Toronto has become one of the most culturally and ethnically diverse cities in the world. More than 80 ethnic communities are represented, and over half of the city's residents were born outside Canada.

Districts

When Metropolitan Toronto was amalgamated in 1998, its six former municipalities became one new "mega-city". Toronto is made up of varied and unique neighbourhoods. Covering more than 600 km², Toronto stretches some 32 kilometers along the shores of Lake Ontario. The city is laid out on a very straightforward grid pattern. Streets rarely deviate from the grid, except when topography interferes, such as the curving Don River Valley, and to a lesser degree the Humber and Rouge valleys at opposite ends of the city. Some main thoroughfares intersect the grid at angles. For travel purposes, we have divided Toronto into twelve neighborhoods:

Central Toronto

The dense urban core of Toronto. It includes many of the city's attractions and hotels.

Yonge-Dundas The heart of downtown Toronto with Yonge St and the Eaton Centre and theatres and City Hall.

Financial Districts The entertainment and financial heart of the city, including some of the city's most prominent tourist attractions: the CN Tower, Rogers Centre (formerly SkyDome), Union Station and the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Kensington-Chinatown Diverse neighbourhoods with lots of little shops, markets and restaurants, and some of the city's best known bars for live music. Includes Queen West and the Fashion District to the south.

Yorkville and the Annex The boutiques of Yorkville and the museums and student energy of the Annex and University neighbourhoods.

Harbourfront South of Downtown, this area is popular for its parks and recreational activities. Walk along the water's edge, take a harbour tour by boat, have some family fun at various events at Exhibition Place ("the Ex"; including the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) in August) or take in a Major League Soccer or Canadian Football League game at BMO Field.

Toronto Islands Take the ferry to the Toronto Islands. Stroll through the parkland, enjoy the beaches, see the petting zoo, have fun in the amusement park, see the quaint cottages and front-yard gardens of the permanent island community.

Downtown East Older neighbourhoods between Church Street and the Don Valley. Includes Church & Wellesley (Toronto's village), Cabbagetown and the Street Lawrence Market, Old Town Toronto, and the Distillery District.

Outside Central Toronto

These are the older suburbs that ring the downtown followed by an outer ring of post-war suburbs. There are fewer attractions here, but if you have the time, some of the neighbourhoods are well worth visiting.

Midtown (Yonge & Eglinton, Davisville Village, Forest Hill) Upscale neighbourhoods with grand old mansions housing the city's moneyed and elite, beautiful parks, and ravines that extend for kilometres. The area around Yonge & Eglinton is in the midst of a rapid transformation into an urban core of its own.

West End (Little Italy, Little Portugal, West Queen West, Parkdale, Roncesvalles, High Park,) Ethnic enclaves, dive bars, and hipsters abound in this rapidly gentrifying part of town. High Park preserves a slice of green space from Humber Bay all the way north to Bloor Street, providing an escape from noisy city life.

East End (Greektown, Leslieville and The Beaches) The West End's quainter, quieter alternative, with low-key neighbourhoods and nice beaches. This area hosts multiple ethnic and cultural festivals throughout the summer months. The Beach, centred along Queen Street east of Kingston Road, is alive with weekend foot traffic year-round, out to take in the refreshingly small, local businesses, and the lake breezes in the summer.

Etobicoke An economically diverse suburb with some undiscovered gems along Bloor Street and near the lake in Mimico, New Toronto and Long Branch.

North York This neighborhood is largely suburban but has something to offer the casual tourist. The centre of this neighborhood is more densely urban in nature, as it was designed to serve as the downtown of the former City of North York.

Scarborough The eastern suburb of the city has lots to offer, including the Scarborough Bluffs, Rouge National Urban Park, authentic (and affordable) ethnic cuisine, and the Toronto Zoo.

Yonge Street

Begun in 1794, Yonge Street is one of the oldest streets in Toronto, but few of its current buildings date back to much before 1900. It divides the city into east and west - street numbering for east-west streets begins at Yonge Street and increases in either direction. Within the City of Toronto, Yonge Street is roughly 15 kilometers long.

Under Yonge Street runs the eastern branch of Line 1 Yonge–University, serving nearly the entire length of the street in Toronto. You can drive along this street if you want (give up trying to find parking), but the smart way to explore Yonge is on foot, with a TTC day pass to whisk you between the spots you want to see.

Until 1999 and the Guinness Book of World Records repeated the urban myth that Yonge Street was the longest main street in the world, running from Toronto/Harbourfront|Toronto's harbour to Lake Superior, a distance of 1896 kilometers}}. It was erroneously assumed that Yonge Street ran the full length of provincial highway 11 (actually, it only runs a distance of 88 kilometers to Barrie, Ontario on Lake Simcoe). Nonetheless and the myth is enshrined by a bronze map set into the sidewalk at the southwest corner of Toronto/Yonge-Dundas|Yonge and Dundas Streets.

Here is a brief description of Yonge Street as it passes each neighborhood from south to north:

• Harbourfront: Yonge Street starts at the water's edge at Harbourfront. A long sidewalk plaque at the foot of Yonge Street promotes the myth that Yonge Street is the world's longest street.
• Financial District: The section of Yonge between Front and Queen Streets passes through the Financial District typified by large office buildings, most of them built in the 1970s or later, but with several beautiful older exceptions. If you want to have a good look at the skyscrapers of the Financial District, walk west from King Subway Station to the junction of King and Bay Streets.
• Yonge-Dundas: The area between Queen and Dundas Streets is dominated by the Eaton Centre shopping mall and, at Dundas Street, by the flashy Yonge-Dundas Plaza. The east side has two historic performance venues and the Ed Mirvish Theatre and the stacked Elgin and Winter Garden Theatres. In addition, Massey Hall is located just to the east on Shuter Street. From College Street north to Bloor Street, Yonge Street serves smaller street-level retail, mostly in two- to three-storey buildings of a hundred years' vintage. The businesses here, unlike the large chains which dominate south of Gerrard Street, are mostly small independent shops and serve a dense residential community on either side of Yonge Street with amenities such as convenience stores.
• Yorkville: Yonge Street crosses the "Mink Mile" at Bloor Street, a strip of expensive stores near the equally upscale Yorkville neighborhood.
• Midtown: Toronto's Midtown is characterized by multiple local shopping/restaurant strips consisting mostly within two-storey buildings with apartments on the second floor. In the strip along Rosedale, Summerhill and St. Clair subway stations, you will see a few sights such as the architecture of the former North Toronto Railway Station and Balmoral Fire Hall built in 1911. The intersection at Eglinton Avenue has become a focal point, serving as a high-density residential, commercial and transit hub.
• North York: At Hoggs Hollow, a steep ravine beside parkland, Yonge Street crosses into North York. After passing Highway 401, shops again line Yonge Street. However, north of Finch Avenue, Yonge Street starts to look more suburban with retail strip malls until it leaves Toronto at Steeles Avenue.

An introduction to Toronto

In 1998 and the cities of Toronto, Scarborough, North York, Etobicoke, and York and the Borough of East York amalgamated to form the current City of Toronto. This is commonly called Metropolitan Toronto or "the 416" after its area code (although now there are some new area codes and the overwhelming number of landline phone numbers in the Toronto area are still "416") and has a population of over 2.6 million people. More than half of these were born in some country other than Canada: a fact obvious to any visitor immediately, as the city has many vibrant bustling neighbourhoods with street signs in several languages.

Toronto and its surrounding suburbs are collectively known as the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Outlying suburbs are commonly called "the 905" after their area code, although this code is also used in the Hamilton (Ontario)|Hamilton and the Niagara Region, stretching from Cobourg and Colborne in the east to the border in Niagara Falls (Ontario)|Niagara Falls to the southwest. The entire area including Toronto is known as the "Golden Horseshoe" and has a population of over 8 million people. Distances between cities in the area can be great as it sprawls along, outward and even wraps around the western end of Lake Ontario; public transit is not always effective enough to make it a quick or seamless trip. Many suburban residents rely on private cars to get around.

A popular urban myth has it that the United Nations rated Toronto as "the most multicultural city in the world". While the UN and its agencies are not in the habit of rating cities, it remains a fact that Canada is a nation of immigrants, and Toronto demonstrates this abundantly. A UN agency lists Toronto as second only to Miami as the city with the most foreign-born residents, but Toronto's residents represent far more cultural and language groups, which is arguably a better measure of multi-culturalism. Most immigrants either pass through Toronto on their way to other parts of the nation or stay in Toronto permanently. Many people born abroad consider themselves Canadian as much as native-born Canadians and will be offended if treated otherwise. This contributes to the overall cultural mosaic that is Toronto today. Within Toronto, most ethnic groups will work their way into the fabric of Canadian society but some still retain their distinct ways such as language, dress (if only for special occasions), customs, and food.

As a result of this cultural mosaic, Toronto is home to many ethnic festivals throughout the year. Toronto also has several radio stations that broadcast in various languages, and two multilingual television channels. The City of Toronto officially deals in 16 different languages while the Toronto Transit Commission (public transit) has a helpline that deals in 70 languages. Even large department stores such as The Bay in downtown Toronto proudly advertise service in 9 languages. The lingua franca of Toronto, however, remains English.

Climate & Weather

Toronto's climate is on the whole on the cool side, and variable conditions can be expected. Come prepared for winter: winters are cold (temperatures average -3.8°C (25°F) in January), mostly cloudy, at times snowy and uncomfortably windy. However and the type of extreme cold experienced further north in Canada usually lasts for no more than a couple of days at a time. The city experiences warm and humid summers with an average high of 27°C (80°F) and a low of 18°C (65°F) in July/August with many muggy evenings but rarely extreme heat. On average and the temperature exceeds 30°C (86°F) only 12 days per year, but hotter air masses often arrive with moderately high humidity levels. Late spring/early summer and early fall are considered to be the best times to visit for weather and less crowds, mid-summer is the peak tourist season, but visitors will find that Toronto's vibrancy extends through the winter with outdoor skating rinks and bundled up club-goers, etc. Toronto's public buildings are nearly all air-conditioned and fully heated.

Sometimes during the winter, severe storms can slow down transportation and activities in the city for a day or two. In the summer, thunderstorms occur from time to time, most lasting less than an hour.

Areas closer to the downtown core are generally 1 to 1.5°C warmer in winter due to the urban heat island effect. For the rest of the year, areas close to Lake Ontario are warmer by about 1°C due to the moderating effects of the lake. This is especially prominent in March and November when the city receives rain while areas just north of the city receive snow.

Visitor information

• Ontario Travel Information Centre - 65 Front Street West within Union Station; follow signs towards UP Express ☎ +1 416 314-5899 - Opening from Monday to Saturday 8AM Monday - 8PM, Sunday 10AM Monday - 6PM

Sports teams & arenas

Toronto has several major league and minor league sports teams:

• Toronto Argonauts - Canadian Football League, playing at BMO Field on the Exhibition Place grounds.
• Toronto Blue Jays – Major League Baseball, playing at the Rogers Centre (formerly known as SkyDome, and still generally called such by local residents).
• Toronto Maple Leafs – National Hockey League, playing at the Scotiabank Arena (formerly known as Air Canada Centre).
• Toronto Raptors – National Basketball Association, playing at the Scotiabank Arena.
• Toronto Rock – National Lacrosse League, playing at the Scotiabank Arena.
• Toronto FC – Major League Soccer, playing at BMO Field.
• Toronto Marlies – American Hockey League (Toronto Maple Leafs farm team). Play at the Ricoh Coliseum.
• Toronto FC II – USL League One (Toronto FC reserve team); as of 2022, TFC II plays at TFC's training facility at Downsview Park in North York. League One is actually a third-tier league; TFC II dropped from the second level, now known as the USL Championship, after the 2018 season.
• York 9 FC – Another pro soccer team, this one set to begin play in 2019 as a founding member of the new Canadian Premier League. They will play home games at Alumni Field on the campus of York University in North York, but have long-term plans to build their own stadium in the York Region.
• Toronto Wolfpack - Rugby league team playing in the Championship and the second level of Britain's rugby league pyramid, which includes 10 teams from England and one from France. In 2018 and they narrowly lost out in their bid for promotion to the top level of said pyramid, Super League. The Wolfpack play at Lamport Stadium in the Liberty Village neighbourhood.

The Scotiabank Arena, 40 Bay St. It was called the Air Canada Centre (or "the Hangar") until July 1, 2018.

The Rogers Centre, 1 Blue Jays Way. Most often referred to by its original "SkyDome" name.

The Maple Leaf Gardens, 60 Carlton Street. Historic arena in Toronto, on the northwest corner of Carlton Street and Church Street in Toronto's Garden District; now converted into a Loblaws supermarket and an athletic centre for Ryerson University and the Mattamy Athletic Centre at the Gardens.

The Aviva Centre, 1 Shoreham Drive. A tennis complex that serves mainly as a training facility, but also includes a main stadium court that frequently hosts seasonal concerts. The most notable use of the complex is for the annual Canadian Open (sponsored as the Rogers Cup), a high-profile event on both the men's ATP World Tour and women's WTA Tour. The Aviva Centre hosts the ATP event in even-numbered years and the WTA event in odd-numbered years, alternating with Montreal in both cases.

Get in

By plane

Toronto Pearson

{{main|Toronto Pearson International Airport]] Toronto Pearson International Airport (IATA Code: YYZ) in Mississauga is about 30-50 minutes by vehicle from downtown Toronto (depending on traffic) and is served by most major international carriers. There are two terminals: Terminal 1 hosts all Air Canada flights and a few other international (mostly Star Alliance) carriers while Terminal 3 hosts all other airlines. When travelling from Toronto International (and other major Canadian airports) to the United States, Muslim travellers will go through United States immigration and customs pre-clearance in Toronto, and should leave some extra time to account for this. The airport has free WiFi internet access.

The main article describes Toronto Pearson International Airport#Ground transportation|ground transportation to and from Toronto Pearson.

Billy Bishop Airport

Porter Airlines.Dash-8.YTZ.2008 - Porter Airlines offers a network of connections across eastern Canada and northeastern US from their base at Billy Bishop Airport

• Billy Bishop Toronto Downtown Airport IATA Code: YTZ commonly known as "The Island Airport" by local residents - GPS: 43.6275, -79.396111 - Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport Toronto Downtown Airport Short-haul flights only. Its main tenant is Porter Airlines, a short-haul carrier that operates turboprop planes to many cities in eastern Canada (Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Halifax and St. John's) and parts of the United States (Boston, Chicago, New York/Newark, Washington, DC, Myrtle Beach and others). Air Canada provides service to Montreal. Porter is aggressively fighting for market share and you can take advantage of it by getting really low fares (often lower than Westjet - if booked 2 weeks or more in advance) combined with complimentary drinks and a waiting lounge with amenities.

One of the main benefits of flying into Billy Bishop is its proximity to the downtown core. Upon landing, you can be downtown within ten minutes. A tunnel under the channel takes you to the city. A free ferry service also makes the short crossing: it is just 121 metres and the world's shortest regularly-scheduled ferry route. It operates between TCCA and the mainland every 15 minutes: see full schedule]. Once on the mainland, a free shuttle bus connects the terminal with the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, across the street from Union Station.

TTC streetcars are available a short walk north from the mainland ferry terminal. Route 511 Bathurst provides service north along Bathurst, to Bathurst subway station. Route 509 Harbourfront travels east along the waterfront (Queens Quay) to Union Station. Both routes end a short distance to the west at Exhibition Place. However and the most convenient connection to TTC subway and GO Transit services are via the free shuttle to Union Station.

Other airports

Hamilton International Airport, (IATA Code: YHM), located about 80 km from downtown Toronto and Niagara Falls, is served by WestJet and CanJet. See section on Hamilton (Ontario)#John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport|John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport for ground transportation including buses to Toronto.

For frugal travellers coming from the United States, Buffalo-Niagara International Airport, (IATA Code: BUF), is another option. Flights to Buffalo tend to be significantly cheaper than to Pearson, but then you still have to get to Toronto. Megabus and the airline-type coach service with varying prices and required early booking, runs a daily bus that takes 3 hours, including the border crossing. Several private livery agencies will drive you there for a fee (usually in the $200 range, give or take), or rental cars are available at the airport if you prefer to do the drive yourself.

By bus

Bus terminals

There are two bus terminals in downtown Toronto:

• Toronto Coach Terminal - 610 Bay Street GPS: 43.656130,-79.384315 just north of Dundas Street W; underground connection to Dundas subway station via the Atrium mall; also close to St. Patrick subway station at University Ave - Toronto Coach Terminal The main bus terminal in Toronto serves Greyhound, Megabus, Trailways and Ontario Northland. The terminal has two buildings: the Bay Street terminal for departures and the Elizabeth Street terminal for arrivals across the street. The Bay Street terminal has ticket counters (Greyhound and Megabus) which can obtain 20-minutes lineups during busy periods. The Bay Street terminal provides baggage lockers for storage during the day ($5/locker).

• Union Station Bus Terminal - 141 Bay Street GPS: 43.645548, -79.377579on the east side of Union Station connected by a footbridge over Bay Street Union Station Bus Terminal - Union Station Bus Terminal serves GO Transit and Can-ar Coach buses with connections to rail services and TTC Union subway station (Line 1).

Here is a list of minor terminals and stops in various parts of the city. Check the Wikipedia link for a list of bus routes serving each terminal.

• Yorkdale Bus Terminal - GPS: 43.725129, -79.449034across a footbridge from Yorkdale subway station on Line 1 Yorkdale Bus Terminal GO Transit ticket counter with buses to Toronto Pearson International Airport, Mississauga, Milton (Ontario)|Milton, Brampton and Oshawa; Ontario Northland buses to North Bay and Timmins; Greyhound Canada buses to Barrie and Sudbury (Ontario)|Sudbury.

• York Mills Bus Terminal - GPS: 43.745129, -79.406375 at York Mills subway station on Line 1 York Mills Bus Terminal GO Transit buses to Mississauga, Milton, Brampton and Oshawa.

• Finch Bus Terminal - GPS: 43.782132, -79.415775 adjacent to Finch subway station on Line 1 Finch Bus Terminal GO Transit buses to Toronto Pearson International Airport, Mississauga, Milton, Brampton, Keswick and Oshawa.

• Scarborough Centre Bus Terminal - GPS: 43.774874, -79.256317at Scarborough Centre Station on subway Line 3 Scarborough Centre Bus Terminal GO Transit to Oshawa; Can-ar Coach to Haliburton Highlands; Megabus to Montreal; Greyhound Canada to Ottawa.

Bus operators

• Greyhound Canada' offers service to nearby cities such as Kitchener, Guelph, Barrie, Peterborough, St. Catharines and Niagara Falls as well as longer routes eastwards to Ottawa and Kingston (Ontario); southwards to Buffalo and New York City and westwards to London, Windsor, Detroit and Chicago. Note: Greyhound Canada services in Northern Ontario west of Sudbury and in Western Canada have been discontinued since Oct 31, 2023, including the services to Sault Sainte Marie, Thunder Bay, and Winnipeg.
• Megabus (Coach Canada) runs buses from Toronto to Kingston (3 hr) and Montreal (7 hr); to Hamilton and Niagara Falls (1½ hr); to Buffalo (2½ hr), New York City (10½ hr), and Washington, D.C.. Megabus boasts of wi-fi and electrical outlets on many of its buses.
• Ontario Northland provides service to/from northern Ontario: Barrie, North Bay, Parry Sound, and Sudbury and small towns en route. Connections are available from Sudbury and North Bay to other parts of Northern Ontario
• Can-ar Coach has 2 scheduled routes. One route serves Orangeville, Kincardine and Port Elgin. The other serves Port Perry, Lindsay and Lindsay and Haliburton.
• Trailways offers service between Toronto and New York City stopping at Niagara Falls (Ontario).
• Shuttle transports groups of people throughout all Ontario and to Buffalo and Montreal.
• GO Transit ( website]) runs bus and rail commuter/regional transit within and near the Greater Toronto Area. GO Transit buses make connections to many nearby cities including: Oshawa, Peterborough, Hamilton, Niagara Falls, Barrie, Guelph, and Kitchener.

By train

For more information on rail travel, see GO Transit for regional rail and Rail travel in Canada for longer distances.

• Union Station IATA Code: YBZ 65 Front Street West GPS: 43.645278, -79.380556 between Bay Street and York Street Opening Hours: 5:30AM Monday - 12:45AM or until last train Union Station (Toronto) Toronto - ON - Union Station - Opened in 1927, Toronto's Union Station is one of the grandest, most impressive train stations in North America, with the ceiling of its enormous Great Hall rising to a height equivalent to seven stories. The Grand Hall accommodates the VIA Rail ticket counters and gives access to VIA train platforms via the branching VIA Concourse. The Union Pearson Express station GPS 43.644376,-79.383462 is 250 metres west of the Great Hall via an enclosed pedestrian corridor. The GO York Concourse on the lower level at the west (York Street) end of the station has GO Transit ticket counters and access to GO train platforms. (A food court is located below the GO York Concourse.) #Union Station Bus Terminal|Union Station Bus Terminal is to the east across Bay Street which can be visited via an overhead walkway. The TTC Union subway station is at the north-east corner of the main building, and serves subway Line 1 and the 509&510 streetcars through the Toronto/Harbourfront|Harbourfront neighborhood.

The following are the railway services operating out of Union Station:

• VIA Rail has many intercity trains operating out of Union Station including The Canadian to Vancouver and The Maple Leaf to New York City.
• GO Transit operates 7 commuter rail lines radiating from Toronto serving smaller cities within and near the Greater Toronto Area. The Lakeshore West and Lakeshore East lines operate every day from 5:30AM till 12:30AM between Burlington and Oshawa. Three other lines have limited mid-day service to Unionville (Markham), Aurora and Brampton. Other GO rail destinations have only rush-hour, peak-direction service.
• Union Pearson Express operates trains to Toronto Pearson International Airport every 15 minutes.

VIA Rail services

Most intercity rail travel in Canada is provided by VIA Rail. Union Station is one of VIA Rail's main hubs and connects several of their lines. Railway lines operated by VIA Rail out of Union Station include:

• Corridor—This is VIA's busiest line running from Windsor and Sarnia (Ontario)|Sarnia in the southwest to Quebec City in the northeast. Regular trains run from Toronto directly to Montreal, Ottawa, London, Kingston, Windsor, and Sarnia as well as stations in between. The lines between Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal are VIA's busiest and most frequent; they also have the largest discounts if booked well in advance. There are multiple classes of service, including business and economy. All cost more than the same trip by bus or private motorcar. However Escape fares (limited amount sold; non-refundable, 50% exchange penalty) can be really affordable (as low as $44 from Ottawa/Montreal). Various promotional campaigns can also make rail an attractive option. Business class includes meals and none alcoholic beverages. There is no direct train to/from Quebec City: connections must be made at Montreal.
• Maple Leaf—This service is run jointly by VIA and U.S. passenger rail company, Rail travel in the Amtrak. Trains on this line run between Toronto and New York City once a day in each direction stopping at Albany, Syracuse, Rochester (New York)|Rochester, Buffalo, and many smaller stations. Trains between Toronto and New York are extremely slow and expensive - the coach services listed above generally take several hours less and cost several times less than the train. Around 2 hours are spent at the border crossing. Escape fares are also not available on this train.
• The Canadian—the transcontinental route from Toronto to Vancouver. Trains run two-three times a week each way, and stop at many smaller stations on the way, including: Sudbury, Sioux Lookout, Winnipeg, Saskatoon, Edmonton, Jasper and Kamloops. The full journey takes about 3½ days. This is one of the most expensive rail journeys in North America and is many times more expensive than flying. However, VIA Rail runs 'express deals' 2–3 weeks before travel that can reduce the price by 75 percent. Escape fares (see above) also provide a deep discount. The trains contain both sleeper berths and cabins, as well as reclining economy seating. Three meals per day are cooked in the train's dining car. These are included in sleeper fares and are available for purchase for economy passengers.

Travel durations (including border crossings and halts) and costs (economy, no concessions, promotions, or escape fare) by intercity rail:

Central Canada: Niagara Falls: 2 hr, $44; London 3 hr, $73; Windsor 4 hours 15 min, $83; Ottawa 4 hours 30 min, $114; Montreal 5 hr, $115; Sudbury: 7 hours 15 min, $103

United States: Buffalo 4 hours 45 min, $95; Rochester 6 hr, $117; Syracuse 7 hours $133; Albany 10½ hr, $183; New York City: 13½ hr, $214

Western Canada: Winnipeg 35 hr, $383; Saskatoon 50 hr, $488; Edmonton 58½ hr, $570; Jasper: 63 hr, $643; Vancouver 87 hr, $779.

Rent a Car or Limousine in Toronto

Major highways leading into Toronto are the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) and the 404 and the 401 and the 400, and the 427. Toronto is the largest city in Canada, so signs pointing you to Toronto are common. Traffic on incoming highways can be extremely heavy. In the downtown core there are many turn restrictions, particularly from main thoroughfares to other main thoroughfares (e.g. Yonge to Dundas Streets). Canada drives on the right.

The main streets in Toronto are laid out in a grid pattern that makes it one of the easiest cities to get around in by car. Getting from point to point anywhere in the city can be achieved with only a few turns. Parking in the downtown core can be expensive and hard to find, but is plentiful and affordable or free throughout the rest of the city.

Transit bylaws

Toronto follows some bylaws related to the transit system that often confuse or surprise visiting drivers:

• If a bus is signalling intent to merge into traffic from a stop, you must yield to the bus.
• Streetcars (trams) - several rules and customs are observed; these rules are more familiar to European drivers, where trams are common, but generally unknown to drivers from elsewhere in North America:

• If a streetcar in front of you and travelling in your direction has its doors open, by law you may not pass the open doors, because of the risk to passengers exiting and boarding. Often (especially during rush hour when large crowds are to be expected), passengers will step out into the road before the streetcar has come to a complete stop, in anticipation of the doors opening. In this situation, it is customary to stop, as crowds of passengers can overwhelm the road within seconds, and some can be quite brazen about stepping off the curb. If a streetcar pulls alongside your vehicle while you are stopped, and opens its doors, you must remain stationary until the doors have closed. Cyclists on the road frequently disregard the stopping rule, as they generally can fit around the crowd, but it is best training to stop, out of consideration for passengers.

• However, if a traffic island (it'll look like a raised median with a transit shelter on top) separates the streetcar from your lane, you may pass with caution. Beware of jaywalkers who do not wait until the light has changed to cross the lane.

• When in mixed traffic, streetcar tracks are located in the centre lane of the road. Streetcars perform right turns from this lane; other vehicles are generally not permitted to do so (except oversized trucks), and it is important to give clearance so that turns can be made, whether travelling in the same direction as the streetcar or facing an oncoming one. These turns are marked by dotted white lines following the contour of the curve, indicating how far out a streetcar will swing.

• Automobile traffic must turn right after travelling a few blocks along King Street between Jarvis Street and Bathurst Street. Watch for signs. Through traffic in this zone is allowed only for streetcars and bicycles.

• Occasionally the rightmost travel lane on certain streets (notably on Bay Street between Front and Bloor Sts. as well as on many of the core arteries outside the city core) is reserved from 7AM Monday - 7PM for transit vehicles, taxis and bicycles only; you can enter these lanes only to make a right turn at the next cross street. If you do decide to travel as through-traffic in these lanes, you may be liable for a fine.

Additionally, remember that Torontonians generally take their obligation to give a wide berth to emergency vehicles quite seriously: if you hear sirens or see lights, pull over to the side of the road safely but quickly.

As Toronto is the largest city in Canada, major highways run through the city, and it is quite easy to find a sign showing that you are in the right direction. However, traffic on the highways can be remarkably heavy, and in the downtown core, parking places are often quite expensive and hard to find. On the other hand and the main streets in Toronto have a grid pattern that makes driving quite easy.

Also, given the extent of the city, several areas are not enough served by the public transit system. In the outer suburbs, almost everybody uses a private car. This is why the highways suffer from traffic jams every day, almost all day, and it gets worse during rush hours: even the 401, with 9 lanes in each direction, is slow at those hours.

By ferry

The trip to the Toronto Islands from the downtown core (Bay Street and Queen's Quay) is a pleasant 15-minutes ferry ride, with frequent summer service and the best views of the Toronto skyline. (Be warned: ferry boat horns are very loud and can sound at any time; they often sound when the boat prepares to leave the dock.)

There are also guided sailing vessels that take tours of the inner and outer harbours, and circumnavigate Toronto Islands.

Get around

Toronto is huge, and most roads run for very long distances. Streetcar rail, subway rail, and intercity rail services are clean and efficient, and it's entirely feasible to get around Toronto without a car, especially downtown. You may find it quicker and easier to drive, but the highways regularly backup during rush hour (7AM Monday - 10AM and 4PM Monday - 7PM). Toronto has plentiful parking garages downtown, but they are expensive.

Many in Toronto travel by bicycle (especially in the warmer months) and this mode is very convenient for getting around the downtown neighborhood. Not all motorists will give way to cyclists, and not all cyclists comply with the rules of the road; caution is recommended.

Transit

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) is the city's main Urban rail|transit system and one of the most heavily used in North America. TTC consists of buses, streetcars, subway lines, and the quasi-subway Scarborough Rapid Transit line. The numbers for automated information are +1 416-393-4636 (INFO) or +1-866-642-9882, 8AM Monday - 6PM daily except for holidays.

Fares

Standard cash fare is $5.25, but this will be discounted to $3.00 if you use tokens or a Presto card. Seniors (65+) and students (13-19) are eligible for a discounted cash fare of $2.10 (or 5 tickets for $10.25) with proper ID. Children (12 and under) ride free of charge; however, be prepared to show proof-of-age for children who are tall for their age.

Presto card is an electronic fare payment system used by most public transit services in the Greater Toronto Area, including the TTC. Presto cards can be purchased for $6 plus a $10 minimum balance at the /Tickets/UpPrestoPDF UP Express service counter (Pearson International Airport), from Presto vending machines at all TTC subway stations, at the GO Transit ticket counter at Union Station and the TTC's head office at Davisville station and at participating Shoppers Drug Mart stores across the city. The Presto cards are automatically configured to deduct adult fares. Child, senior, youth/student and post-secondary fare concessions should have the card set up at the UP Express service counter and the GO Transit ticket counter and the TTC's head office at Davisville station or at participating Shoppers Drug Mart stores.

GO Transit and the TTC have a co-fare discount for Presto card users only. If you need to transfer between the TTC and GO Transit (or Union Pearson Express) to complete your trip, your Presto card will be credited $1.50 for adults and $0.55 for seniors and students after completing the transfer. This discount does not apply if the Presto card is set up for a TTC monthly pass.

A TTC monthly pass is available for Presto card holders only. This option costs $146.25 (or $116.75 for student/youth/senior and post-secondary students) and provides unlimited travel across all TTC services within the City of Toronto except for Downtown Express buses (rush-hour routes 141–145), throughout the entire calendar month.

A TTC day pass costs $12.50 and allows for unlimited travel on all TTC services within the City of Toronto, except for Downtown Express buses. On Saturdays, Sundays and some statutory holidays up to 6 people (1 adult+5 youths or 2 adults+4 youths) can travel with a single day pass. Day passes are good until 5:30AM the next morning. The day pass does not have to be purchased on the day of use.

A TTC weekly pass costs $43.75 ($34.75 for seniors or students) and allows unlimited travel from Monday through to Sunday of a given week. The weekly pass can be used by more than one person but only one person may be travelling with the pass at any given time.

Tickets, tokens, day and weekly passes are available at subway stations with collector booths, variety stores and news stands throughout the city. Most businesses that sell passes and tokens have a TTC logo sticker on their front door. Subway stations with collector booths will accept debit and credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, or American Express) for purchases of $10 or more in fares. (Subway stations from Lawrence West to Vaughan Metropolitan Centre stations on the west arm of Line 1 Yonge–University have no collector booths.)

GTA Zone Fares: A few TTC bus route cross over into Mississauga or York Region. For these, you must pay a TTC fare (cash, ticket, token or Presto) in Toronto plus a Mississauga or York Region fare beyond Toronto. Riders cannot use Presto to pay the second fare beyond Toronto; it must be paid in exact cash or a TTC token plus a small exact cash supplement. See link for further details.

Unstaffed secondary TTC subway station entrances allow only Presto card holders to pass through the fare gates. All other forms of payment (such as cash, tokens, tickets, paper transfers, and physical TTC passes, including day, weekly and physical GTA weekly passes) are accepted only at primary subway station entrances where a TTC subway station attendant is present.

Transfers

If you are paying your fare by cash, ticket or token, remember to obtain a paper transfer when you pay your fare which serves as proof of payment when transferring between vehicles or to/from a subway station and vice versa as well as to show to fare inspectors while riding on streetcars. Paper transfers are free and will allow you to complete a one-way trip on multiple TTC routes using a single fare. At subway stations, you can collect your transfer from a red machine just beyond the ticket booth with a digital time clock on its face. On buses or older streetcars (top photo), ask for a transfer from the driver when you pay your fare. On newer streetcars (bottom photo) and the payment machine on board the streetcar will give you a receipt/transfer if you pay with coins or by token; if you pay by ticket, use the TTC Ticket Validator to time stamp the ticket and turn it into a transfer. Some streetcar boarding platforms have a payment machine similar to those available on new streetcars.

If you pay by cash, ticket or token and the paper-based transfer you obtain upon payment is valid only for one trip rather than a specific duration of time. It cannot be used for stopovers or round trips. Walking away from a transfer point instead of waiting for a bus or streetcar will invalidate your transfer from further use as your stroll will be considered to be a stop-over.

If paying by Presto using money on a stored card balance and the transfer is valid for two hours from the first tap, allowing you to make unlimited stopovers or a round trip. Presto users are to tap their card each time they board a bus or streetcar and when entering a subway station, as long as they're within two hours from the first tap and they will not be charged another fare.

Subway

Note: sections of the subway system will close on most weekends for maintenance and construction projects, with buses replacing each closed section. Thus, expect a longer travel duration during such closures; staff will be on hand to direct passengers. Most weekend closures will affect Line 1 Yonge-University.

The subway is the fastest means to move across the city, with trains typically arriving every few minutes. Trains operate Monday to Saturday roughly 6AM Monday - 1:30AM, and Sunday 8AM Monday - 1:30AM; the TTC website gives more precise first and last train times by subway station.

The subway system has four lines:

• Line Station toronto|1 Yonge-University runs in a 'U' shape, travelling from North York south along Yonge Street, through the downtown area to Union Station and then travelling north through North York to Vaughan.
• Line Station toronto|2 Bloor-Danforth runs east-west along Bloor Street and Danforth Avenue.
• Line Station toronto|3 Scarborough runs from the eastern end of the Line 2 at Kennedy Station to McCowan Station. At Scarborough Centre station and there is a large shopping centre and a regional transit hub for the TTC, GO Transit, and intercity coaches heading east to Ottawa, Montreal and other destinations.
• Line Station toronto|4 Sheppard runs east from Line 1 along Sheppard Avenue to Fairview Mall at Don Mills Station.

Streetcars

Toronto is one of the few cities in North America (and the only city in Canada) to have kept any of its streetcar routes, and the TTC is expanding its network. See the neighborhood articles for detailed information on getting around by streetcar. Most streetcar lines serve the south, central part of the city.

The 501 Queen route is an attraction in itself passing through a wide range of ethnic and cultural neighbourhoods. It received special recognition from National Geographic magazine for being the longest streetcar route in North America (and one of the longest in the world).

Payment machines are available on board new streetcars and on the platform at most stops along the 509 Harbourfront and 510 Spadina streetcar routes. The platform machines allow you to pay your fare with coins, token or ticket before boarding a streetcar. If you have a transfer or a Presto card, you may enter a streetcar through any door; otherwise, enter an older streetcar through the front door and a newer streetcar by the second or third door to pay your fare and obtain a transfer.

Caution: when getting on and off streetcars, make sure that the traffic is stopped in the lane next to the streetcar. Also, be aware of pickpockets in crowded rush hour situations.

Some streetcar routes have been replaced by buses for the foreseeable future, all-door entry/exit and proof-of-payment rules still apply on these routes though.

Connecting public transit services

Several TTC subway stations act as gateways to other local public transit systems. You need to pay a separate fare for each system listed below as they don't accept TTC transfers. All accept the Presto card for fare payment. The main subway stations for transferring between the TTC and a neighbouring local public transit system are:

• Finch station: YRT and Viva buses to York Region
• Pioneer Village station: YRT buses in Vaughan
• Islington station: MiWay buses to Mississauga
• Vaughan Metropolitain Centre: YRT and Viva buses in Vaughan, Züm buses to Brampton

Taxis

Taxis are plentiful and safe, but not cheap. The base rate is $4.25, with an average 5 km trip costing $13. As with most big cities, driving a vehicle downtown can be annoying; parking is often hard to find and expensive, and traffic along certain streets can make vehicle travel slower than mass transit. However, travelling longer distances, when not close to subway lines is often significantly faster by vehicle or taxi.

By bicycle

Toronto is trying very hard to become a bike-friendly city, with dedicated bike lanes being added all the time. There are many casual cyclists out all the time. And it is fast: door to door, in all of downtown Toronto, a bike beats a vehicle or transit nearly every time.

There can be hostility between automobiles and cyclists. Generally speaking, if you are on the road, you are expected to obey the same laws as cars, and you are not allowed to ride on the sidewalk.

The city is predominantly flat, aside from a general climb away from Lake Ontario and the deeply indented, forested Don Valley and Humber River Valley. Post-and-ring locking posts are present throughout the city. There are many bike-only lanes on major roads and threading through various neighbourhoods and parks. The city publishes a cycling map, available on the city website].

Bike Share Toronto provides a public bike system with 1,000 bikes available at 80 stations throughout downtown. Subscriptions start at $5 for 24 hours and allow you to use a bike for 30 minutes or less, as much as you like (usage fees apply for trips longer than 30 minutes). It operates 24 hours a day, all year long (but see the warning below about winter biking). Several businesses also offer bicycle rentals.

It is a provincial law that cyclists under 18 must wear a helmet, and all riders must have a bike with reflectors and a bell. This tends to only be enforced when the police go on their annual "cycling blitz".

Some dangers:

• Beware of parked cars - often accidents are not caused by moving cars, but rather by careless drivers or passengers who unexpectedly open their driver's side door.
• Be cautious of streetcar tracks as bike wheels can be easily caught and cause a spill.
• Although you will certainly see many local residents riding the streets year-round, biking in the winter months is enjoyable only with proper equipment and reasonable skills; winter weather is cold, it can be quite windy, and snow removal is often imperfect.

Some recommended cycling routes:

• By far one of the most popular bike paths is the Martin Goodman Trail and the east-west route that hugs Lake Ontario, spanning the city from Etobicoke to the eastern ends of the city. This path is also often used by pedestrians and rollerbladers.
• The Don River trail system begins at the lake (near Queen and Broadview) and travels very far north and east. During or after heavy rains, avoid lower sections of the trails.
• A special treat for bikers of all levels is a tour through Tommy Thompson Park (Leslie Street Spit) to the lighthouse and bird sanctuaries (no cars!), which is open on weekends only. Start at Queen and Leslie and head south.
• A visit to Toronto/Islands|Toronto Islands from the ferry docks at the southern end of Bay Street is a great way to spend a bike-friendly, relaxed afternoon by bike. There are no private cars on the Toronto Islands.

What to see in Toronto

Museums

• Art Gallery of Ontario. The largest art gallery in Canada, redesigned by architect Frank Gehry. It has a great Canadian paintings exhibit and the world's largest collection of Henry Moore sculptures. The European paintings exhibit has a few excellent pieces including Ruben's The Massacre of the Innocents.
• Bata Shoe Museum. This offbeat museum is devoted to shoes and footwear from cultures all over the world.
• Black Creek Pioneer Village is a recreation of life in 19th-century Ontario and consists of over forty historic 19th-century buildings, decorated in the style of the 1860s with period furnishings and actors portraying villagers.
• Casa Loma is a step back in time to a period of European elegance and splendour. The museum has decorated suites, secret passages, a 250-metre-long tunnel, towers, stables and beautiful 5-acre estate gardens.
• Yorkville and the Gardiner Museum of Ceramic Art. Dedicated to ceramics in an exquisite contemporary building.
• Hockey Hall of Fame is both a museum and a hall of fame dedicated to the history of ice hockey.
• Ontario Science Centre. This child-friendly museum has several hundred exhibits, many of them hands-on.
• Royal Ontario Museum is a museum of art, world culture and natural history. It is one of the largest museums in North America, and the largest in Canada.
• Spadina House Museum is in a historic mansion dating from the 1860s. The grounds contain a beautiful garden.
• Textile Museum of Canada. Shows drawn from a 13,000-piece collection of textiles from around the world and from other collections.

Landmarks

• CN Tower. At 533 metres tall and the CN Tower is the third tallest free-standing structure in the world, and the tallest in North America.
• Rogers Centre is a large multi-purpose stadium with a retractable roof. It is home to the Toronto Blue Jays of Major League Baseball.
• Toronto City Hall. Two buildings forming a semi-circle overlooking Nathan Phillips Plaza. Architecturally stunning, and next door to Old City Hall (now a court house) which has a more classical architecture.

Parks

• Toronto Zoo is Canada's premier zoo showcasing over 5,000 animals and 460 species.

What to do in Toronto

Districts

Outdoors

• Toronto is " the city within a park", with miles and miles of parkland following the streams and rivers that flow through the city. Edwards Gardens and the Toronto Botanical Gardens in the neighbourhood of Toronto/North York|North York might just be the place to start exploring this natural environment.
• The City of Toronto has designated various Discovery Walks which highlight the natural and human history of the region. These can be found with brown circular signs along the route and highlight other regions such as the Belt Line, Garrison Creek and the Humber River as well as the downtown core.
• Beaches. Toronto has three main sections of beach along Lake Ontario. The most popular of these is in the aptly-named Beaches neighbourhood. A less popular alternative is the beaches in the western end of the city in the Parkdale neighbourhood; this was once Toronto's Coney Island, with an amusement park and numerous beach-style attractions; however in the 1950s the city built the Gardiner Expressway along the lakeshore, effectively separating the beaches from the city and causing the demolition of the amusement park; over the years attempts have been made to re-energize this area, but the Gardiner remains a major barrier, as well as a source of noise and pollution to keep away would-be beach-goers. On the plus side and the beaches are largely empty most of the time, providing solitude for those who seek it. The third major beach area in the city runs along the south shore of the Toronto Islands. This area is pleasantly secluded, with most of the islands covered with parkland and a small amusement park. Hanlan's Point Beach on the western shore of the islands is the City of Toronto's only officially recognized clothing optional beach, and a popular hangout. Despite these options, many Torontonians prefer to leave the city for beach trips; the most popular beaches are those in the Georgian Bay area north of Toronto, Wasaga Beach in particular is very popular during the summer.

Arts & entertainment

• Comedy. World-renowned Second City comedy/improv theatre has a location in Toronto. See great improv and situation comedy performed live with audience participation over dinner and drinks in the heart of the club neighborhood of downtown Toronto.
• Theatre. Toronto has a great theatre scene for every taste and budget. Check out the big theatres on Yonge Street for the big splashy shows. Small theatres in the Annex and elsewhere offer smaller productions that range from original Canadian works, avant-garde, experimental theatre, small budget musicals to British murder mysteries. A variety of theatre festivals such as the New Ideas, Rhubarb and Fringe festivals are the seed for many commercial success such as The Drowsy Chaperone. Also try to check out the Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts and the new home of the Canadian Opera Company and the National Ballet of Canada. The Toronto Symphony plays in the acoustically renovated Roy Thomson Hall]. TO Tix in Yonge-Dundas Plaza is the best place to get full-price advance and day-of discounts on shows across Toronto. It also offers theatre and dining packages, partnering Toronto’s theatre, dance and opera companies with local downtown restaurants and cultural attractions.

Annual events

• Canadian National Exhibition - The Ex, CNE | Exhibition Place Opening Hours: From mid-August to Labour Day - The Ex is a annual fair offering an amusement park (the Midway), a casino, live entertainment, an international market, agricultural exhibits including livestock and a variety of other exhibits. It is Canada's largest fair and the fifth largest in North America, with an average annual attendance of 1.3 million.

• Doors Open Free admission - This event, held the last weekend of May, offers residents and visitors an opportunity to take a peek behind the doors of more than 100 architecturally, historically, culturally and socially significant buildings across the city. Many of these buildings are normally not open to the public. A number of the city's museums offer free admission on the Doors Open weekend.
• Pride Toronto Opening Hours: Held the last week of June - Pride Toronto is the annual festival which includes the very popular Pride Parade which draws crowds of straight people to discover how people have fun.

• Toronto Black Film Festival - TBFF Opening Hours: Held in February - TBFF showcases the interesting black films and provides a forum to debate major cultural, social and socio-economic issues.
• Toronto International Film Festival - TIFF - Opening Hours: Starts the Thursday night after Labour Day - This publicly attended festival of international film takes place in various theatres and draws many celebrities and celebrity spotters.

Exploring neighbourhoods

Toronto has so many eclectic neighbourhoods that a random walk is fascinating in its own right. You might start in the Downtown area and then try other neighbourhoods around the city. Here are a few suggestions of neighbourhoods to visit. More details and more examples are found in the Toronto Travel Guides.

• Distillery District. The former Gooderham & Worts distillery lands have been rejuvenated into a pedestrian-only village dedicated to the arts and entertainment. It has fantastic restaurants, festivals, and art galleries housed in its 19th-century distillery buildings.
• Harbourfront, Toronto's former industrial port, is today largely parkland with biking and walking trails and excellent views of the harbour. Harbourfront Centre is situated right by the lake, and is home to numerous cultural events of which most are free or relatively affordable. Take in some of the worlds most critically acclaimed performing arts productions, or enjoy one of the many world festivals that take place every weekend.
• Toronto Islands. A short affordable ferry ride from the foot of Bay Street and you leave the bustle of the city behind. Visually and the views of the skyline from the islands are stunning, and for cycling, walking, picnics or just relaxing and the Toronto Islands are hard to beat. There is even a small amusement park for kids, Centreville. On hot summer days, temperatures here will often be about 2-3C lower than the mainland providing relief. By mid-summer the water is warm enough to swim at Hanlan's Point or for the more adventurous, a nude beach is located nearby.
• Little Italy is the spot to get a sense of the Western Mediterranean. Sit at one of the many coffee shops and watch the world go by on the weekends. A great time to visit is during the men's FIFA World Cup competition (in football/soccer), regardless of where in the world it is actually being held as local communities face off and rivalries reach a fever pitch. Support can be passionate and even in adjacent communities and it is not unusual to see them draped in a mind-numbing variety of flags once every four years.
• Toronto's Chinatown is a great way to sample a tiny bit of cities like Hong Kong, without spending the airfare. Vast crowds crush the sidewalks as vendors sell authentic Chinese and Vietnamese food, and not-so-authentic knock-offs. It is one of North America's largest Chinatowns, and with many shops aimed at tourists, it is a good place to pick up some unusual and affordable souvenirs. The area is also home to a growing number of Korean and Vietnamese shops and restaurants. Toronto's multicultural mosaic never stops evolving. For a complete tour, travel along Spadina (north/south) starting at College Street in the north or Queen Street in the south.
• Kensington Market was once a centre of Yahudi life that has morphed into the centre of Toronto's bohemian scene. Visitors will be assaulted by sounds and smells unlike anywhere else in the city, as narrow streets bustle with immigrants, punks, and yuppies alike. Stores include surplus shops, coffee houses, small restaurants (including vegetarian), clothing vendors, and record stores. Fish and fruit markets are also present in great numbers, and the area is experiencing a boom of South American food stalls of late.
• Koreatown has many Korean retail businesses and restaurants where Korean is as prominent as English in the signage. (There is also another Koreatown in Toronto/North York|North York.
• Gerrard India Bazaar (Little India) If you want to get a sense of Toronto's vibrant South Asian community, this is where you want to be; not only is Indian culture represented - visible (Pakistani) and Afghan communities are also alive along the street.
• The 501 Queen streetcar has been recognized in National Geographic magazine for being the longest streetcar route in North America (one of the longest in the world). The journey from one end to the other takes a couple of hours and passes through a wide range of ethnic and cultural neighbourhoods.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Toronto

• Toronto Eaton Centre - GPS: At Yonge-Dundas Plaza. Over 285 shops and services, including most of North America's most popular brands, and two food courts catering for every taste.
• The 'PATH' System - Linking 1,200 stores and 50 buildings, The PATH is an underground shopping mall has been created for all the commuters to get from Union Station to their offices and back without ever going outside. In a city of Toronto's summer heat and winter cold, this is crucial.

• Mink Mile. If you head west from the junction of Yonge and Bloor, you are in the most upscale of Toronto's shopping neighborhoods, easily accessible from the Bloor-Yonge or Bay subway station. Bloor Street between Yonge and Avenue is regarded as Toronto's version of Fifth Avenue, with upscale names such as Hermes and Louis Vuitton, and the flagship Holt Renfrew department store.
• Yorkville. This high-end shopping neighborhood just north of Bloor Street and west of Bay Street is home to many designer boutiques. It also has many galleries selling art.
• Kensington Market provides a bohemian shopping experience especially along the southern end of Kensington Avenue. There houses lining both sides of the street have been turned into shops with racks of clothes displayed in the front yard.
• There are many local, neighbourhood shopping neighborhoods in the inner city. These are mostly located along major thoroughfares lined on one or both sides with shops in low-rise buildings. A few examples are Queen Street West (especially Toronto/Kensington-Chinatown|east of Spadina Avenue and extending westward into the West End), Uptown Yonge north of Eglinton Avenue on Yonge Street, and Roncesvalles Village. There are many more areas with store-lined streets within the inner city but few in suburban neighborhoods such as Etobicoke, North York and Scarborough which tend to prefer malls. Consult the Toronto#Districts|neighborhood eHalal Guide's.

• Yorkdale Shopping Centre - GPS: A shopping centre in the north of the city, accessible from Yorkdale subway station. This is a full-service, upscale mall with hundreds of stores, but which is also rife with packs of roving teenagers who use the facilities as a social scene. Make use of the subway if feasible on weekends, as local residents pack the parking areas to capacity.

Money Matters & ATM's in Toronto

Changing money at a recognized bank or financial institution is best; there are a few specialized bureaux de change in Toronto's financial neighborhood and in Mississauga in the airport terminals. Some hotels, souvenir shops and tourist offices exchange money, but their rates won't put a smile on your dial. Many places in Toronto accept US dollars for small transactions – with a rough 1:1 exchange rate – and it is advised to obtain some Canadian dollars if you will use cash. US coins are often mixed in with Canadian coins at stores since they are similar in appearance.

• Thomas Cook branches include:
• Bloor-Yorkville (+1 416-975-9940, +1-800-267-8891; 1168 Bay St; Monday to Friday 9AM Monday - 5:30PM; Bloor-Yonge)
• Financial District (+1 416-366-1961; 10 King Street E; Monday to Friday 9AM Monday - 5PM; King)
• Travelex) has branches in the Financial District (+1 416-304-6130; First Canadian Place, Bank of Montraal, 100 King Street W; Monday to Friday 8AM Monday - 5PM) and at Toronto Pearson International Airport|the airport in Mississauga.
• Calforex Currency Services (290 Queen Street West) give good rates for cash, buying and selling GBP, USD, EUR; on substantial sums can be as little as 1% from interbank rates.
• American Express branches in Toronto only function as travel agencies and don't handle financial transactions.
• Cheque-cashing firms such as Money Mart (+1 416-920-4146, multiple locations) can usually exchange US to CAD, but the rates tend to be worse than at other financial institutions.

Muslim Friendly Food & Restaurants in Toronto

Toronto is considered to be one of North America's top food cities. It has the same variety as New York or San Francisco and the compact and safe downtown keeps them closer together. As one of the most (if not the most) multicultural cities in the world, Toronto has authentic ethnic cuisine like no other city in North America. It is easy to eat out in Toronto and have a superb meal for cheap.

Vegetarian

Some neighborhoods with Vegetarian restaurants are Kensington-Chinatown, Toronto/Yorkville and the The Annex, and Chinatown East.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Toronto

Toronto - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Toronto, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Toronto. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Toronto and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Toronto. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Toronto. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inToronto: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Toronto.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Toronto: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Toronto, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Toronto.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Toronto, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Toronto, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Toronto and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Toronto, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Toronto, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Toronto without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Toronto is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Toronto.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Toronto is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Toronto, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Toronto Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Toronto

eHalal Group Toronto is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Toronto. 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 in Toronto.

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 Toronto 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 Toronto. 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 in Toronto, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Toronto 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 realestate@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.

Muslim Friendly Hotels

• Alexandra Hotel Toronto
• Best Western Inn On The Hill Georgetown
• Best Western Parkway Hotel Toronto North
• Best Western Plus Executive Inn Toronto
• Best Western Plus Roehampton Hotel & Suites Toronto
• Best Western Plus Toronto Airport Hotel
• Best Western Plus Travel Hotel Toronto Airport
• Best Western Primrose Hotel Downtown-Toronto
• Bond Place Hotel Toronto
• Canadas Best Value Inn Richmond Hill - Toronto North
• Canadas Best Value Inn Toronto
• Comfort Hotel Airport North Toronto
• Comfort Hotel Downtown - Toronto
• Comfort Inn & Suites Barrie
• Comfort Inn Airport West Toronto
• Comfort Inn Downsview
• Comfort Inn East Toronto
• Comfort Inn Meadowvale
• Comfort Inn Toronto Northeast
• Cosmopolitan Hotel Toronto
• Courtyard By Marriott Toronto Airport Hotel
• Courtyard By Marriott Toronto Hotel
• Courtyard Hotel Toronto Vaughan
• Crowne Plaza Hotel Toronto Airport
• Days Hotel & Conference Centre Toronto Airport East
• Days Hotel & Conference Centre-Toronto Don Valley
• Days Inn East Beaches Toronto
• Days Inn Toronto East Lakeview
• Days Inn Toronto West Mississauga
• Delta Airport West Hotel Toronto
• Delta Chelsea Hotel Toronto
• Delta Meadowvale Hotel & Conference Centre Toronto
• Delta Toronto East Hotel
• Doubletree By Hilton Hotel Toronto Airport
• Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Downtown Toronto
• Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Toronto Airport Mississauga
• Express by Holiday Inn Downtown Toronto
• Four Points By Sheraton Toronto Airport
• Four Seasons Hotel Toronto At Yorkville
• Glen Grove Suites Yonge Street
• Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Toronto Airport
• Hampton Inn By Hilton Toronto Airport Corporate Centre
• Hampton Inn By Hilton Toronto Mississauga
• Hampton Inn By Hilton Toronto-Mississauga West
• Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Airport
• Hilton Garden Inn Toronto City Centre
• Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Downtown
• Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Mississauga
• Hilton Toronto
• Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel & Suites
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites TORONTO - MARKHAM
• Holiday Inn Express Toronto North York
• Holiday Inn Express Toronto-Airport Area Mississauga
• Holiday Inn Express Toronto-East
• Holiday Inn Midtown Toronto
• Holiday Inn Mississauga Toronto West
• Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre
• Holiday Inn Toronto-Airport East
• Holiday Inn Toronto-International Airport
• Holiday Inn Toronto-Yorkdale
• Homewood Suites By Hilton Toronto Airport Corporate Centre Hotel
• Homewood Suites By Hilton Toronto-Markham Hotel
• Homewood Suites by Hilton Toronto-Mississauga
• Hotel Indigo Toronto Airport
• Hotel Le Germain Maple Leaf Square Toronto
• Hotel Le Germain Toronto
• Hotel Novotel Toronto Centre
• Hotel Novotel Toronto Mississauga Centre
• Hotel Victoria Downtown Toronto
• Howard Johnson Hotel Markham
• Howard Johnson Hotel Toronto Yorkville
• Howard Johnson Inn & Suites Toronto East
• Howard Johnson Inn Toronto Downtown West
• Hyatt Regency Toronto
• Intercontinental Hotel Toronto Centre
• InterContinental Hotel Toronto Yorkville
• Isabella Hotel & Suites Toronto
• Knights Inn Toronto
• Maryam Hotel North York
• Metropolitan Hotel Toronto
• Monte Carlo Inns Oakville Suites
• Pantages Hotel Toronto Centre
• Park Hyatt Toronto Yorkville Hotel
• Quality Inn & Suites Airport Mississauga
• Quality Inn Airport West Toronto
• Quality Suites Toronto Airport
• Radisson Hotel Admiral Toronto Harbourfront
• Radisson Hotel Toronto East
• Radisson Suite Hotel Toronto Airport
• Ramada Plaza Toronto
• Renaissance Hotel Downtown Toronto
• Residence Inn Toronto Airport
• Residence Inn Toronto Downtown Entertainment District
• Residence Inn Toronto Markham
• Sandman Signature Hotel Toronto Airport
• Sheraton Centre Hotel Toronto
• Sheraton Gateway Hotel Toronto International Airport
• Sheraton Parkway Toronto North Hotel & Suites Toronto
• Sheraton Toronto Airport Hotel & Conference Centre
• Soho Metropolitan Hotel Toronto
• Staybridge Suites Toronto Mississauga Hotel
• Super 8 Downtown Toronto
• Super 8 Motel Mississauga
• Super 8 Motel Toronto East
• Super 8 Toronto North On
• The Fairmont Royal York Toronto Hotel
• The Grange Hotel Toronto
• The Hazelton Hotel Toronto
• The King Edward Hotel Toronto
• The Ritz-Carlton Toronto Hotel
• The Strathcona Hotel Toronto
• The Westin Bristol Place Toronto Airport
• The Westin Harbour Castle Toronto
• The Westin Prince Toronto
• Thompson Hotel Toronto
• Toronto Airport Marriott Hotel
• Toronto Airport, Dixon Road Travelodge Hotel
• Toronto Don Valley Hotel & Suites
• Toronto Marriott Bloor Yorkville Hotel
• Toronto Marriott Downtown Eaton Centre Hotel
• Town Inn Suites Toronto
• Travelodge Toronto East
• Wellesley Manor Boutique Hotel Toronto
• Woodbine Hotel & Suites Toronto

Study in Toronto

International students often prefer to study in Toronto because of its safety, proximity to other tourist destinations, and favourable exchange rates and visa policies. However, despite its status as the largest city in the nation and Canada's economic centre, it is surprisingly under-served by universities. This lack of post-secondary education has led to the development of major universities in the mid-sized cities that surround Toronto: the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo and the University of Guelph in Guelph, McMaster University in Hamilton, Brock University in St. Catharines and Trent University in Peterborough. The universities in Toronto remain some of the best in the nation:

• The University of Toronto. Canada's largest university, is spread out all over the city (including the main downtown campus, an east-end Scarborough campus, and University of Toronto at Mississauga (UTM) in the neighbouring city of Mississauga). This university is consistently rated among the top three in the nation and is part of the "Canadian Ivy League." Due to its size and the University of Toronto's downtown campus, known as the Street George campus, after the street that runs through it, has its own "sphere of influence," turning the surrounding neighbourhoods into miniature college towns, with plenty of restaurants, restaurants, bookshops, grocery stores and affordable take-out joints. Click the Toronto/Yorkville and the Annex#University of Toronto|link for a guide to the U of T campus.
• York University. The third largest university in Canada, York University has two campuses - the Keele Campus near Keele Street and Steeles Avenue West at the northern border of the city, and the original Glendon College at Lawrence Avenue East and Bayview Avenue. York University station on subway Line 1 Yonge–University is located within the Keele campus. Buses 124 and 162 connect Lawrence Station (also on Line 1 Yonge–University) to Glendon College.
• Ryerson University. In the heart of the downtown core. It was once a polytechnic, but is now Toronto's third university. The university is particularly well known for its school of management, and for its journalism program. Its campus is centred on the Kerr Hall, which forms a square around a central quad, it fills the block bounded by Gould, Gerrard, Victoria and Church streets. Ryerson also has buildings throughout this section of the city, including the Ted Rogers School of Management, at Bay and Dundas streets.
• OCAD University. The university focuses exclusively on art and design. The campus is on Dundas Street West near Spadina.
• Seneca College. Canada's largest college is spread out over the city with over 16 campuses of varying sizes.
• George Brown College. Three campuses: St. James (downtown), Casa Loma (midtown) and Waterfront (Harbourfront).
• Humber College. Two campuses: Lakeshore and North.

Toronto, like other Canadian cities, also has dozens of English as a Second Language (ESL) schools. The largest association of private English and French language schools is the Canadian Association of Private Language Schools].

Telecommunications in Toronto

Calling

For life-threatening emergencies or crime in progress, dial 9-1-1 on any landline, mobile or pay phone (toll-free).

Local calls at pay phones cost 50 cents. Toronto's local calling area extends roughly from Oakville to Ajax; Oshawa, Hamilton and their adjacent suburbs are long-distance. Local calls are not metered, so you can talk as long as you want. Due to the popularity of cellphones and there are fewer pay phone booths than in previous years, so they can be difficult to locate. Most large public facilities still have ample pay phones to use. In malls, pay phones are usually located between the inner and outer doors at the entrances. Payphones are also routinely provided in TTC subway stations, including on the platforms, as a safety feature. Cellular service is generally unavailable in the subway, except in outdoor or above-ground areas. In other underground areas, such as the lower levels of malls and in the PATH, reception is generally available, if somewhat weaker.

In addition, many public facilities (such as shopping malls) now also have phones which provide free local calls, which are funded by advertisements run on colour LCD screens. Watch for large, wall-mounted ovals in high-traffic areas.

Toronto has three area codes: 416, 647, and 437. These area codes are all associated with the same geographic area. The suburban areas outside of the city have three overlapping area codes: 905, 289, and 365. As a result, Toronto has 10-digit local dialling. You must always dial the area code as part of the number you are trying to reach.

International calling cards are widely available to many countries for reasonable rates. As coin-paid long distance calls are overpriced (Bell payphones charge nearly $5 in the first minutes and a lower rate thereafter, competitors are $1 for three minutes), if you must place toll calls from telephone booths, it's best to buy prepaid cards.

Stay Safe

Crime

Toronto is remarkably safe and the streets are vibrant with pedestrians and bicyclists, even at night in most neighbourhoods. If you use common sense, you should have no trouble at all.

The overall violent crime rate in Canada, and particularly in Toronto, is much lower than that found in major cities in the United States. Petty crime is generally not a problem in Toronto, but as always is the case, keep vigilant with your possessions. Car and bike theft are comparable to other large North American cities.

There are neighbourhoods which are known in the media and on the street as being more dangerous, though police statistics are not commonly used to justify these beliefs. Nevertheless, while assaults and other crimes can happen anywhere, especially late at night when few people are around, it is reasonable to avoid certain areas (again, generally late at night). These areas include in the old city and inner bouroughs: Crescent Town, Regent Park, parts of Parkdale, parts of St. Jamestown, Moss Park, Alexandra Park, Flemingdon Park/Victoria Village and Weston-Mount Dennis. Outer areas: Jane and Finch ("Jane Corridor"), Lawrence Heights and the Peanut (i.e., Don Mills and Sheppard), Rexdale/Jamestown Crescent, Malvern, Kingston and Galloway, Steeles-L’Amoureaux, Dorset Park, Westminster-Branson and Eglinton East-Kennedy Park. Stay away from dodgy looking areas, where drugs, prostitution and violent crime such as armed robberies can occur. These neighbourhoods become noticeably worse from a visual standpoint, giving ample warning to turn around.

Homeless

Toronto has a visible homeless population, many of whom will ask you for money. Beggars in Toronto have been known to ask for handouts on the pretext that they need TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) fare. When offered TTC tokens and they will accept them and then approach other passers-by in an attempt to resell these tokens for cash. If a street person offers to sell you a token they claim to have "found" in Toronto, sometimes at less than face value, odds are this fare media was given to them by some well-meaning passer-by who believed their false claim that they needed a TTC fare to get home.

There have also been instances in the past with "squeegee kids" who would jump into intersections when traffic is stopped at lights and solicit money for cleaning windshields. This is becoming less common as this form of interference with vehicle traffic is expressly illegal under Ontario's Highway Traffic Act and may be reported to police.

Pedestrians

Be careful when getting off the streetcars and always look to your right before leaving the car. Although vehicles are supposed to stop when the streetcar doors open, some motorists and cyclists will ignore this and keep going.

The proliferation of mobile data devices has led to "multitasking" in a large percentage of the pedestrian population of this city. If driving, cycling, or even walking, in Toronto do not forget to keep an eye open for a pedestrian who may be more focused on his or her device.

Weather

Avoid river/creek banks or bridge underpasses during periods of excessive rain, during/after heavy thundershowers or melting snow. Flooding can soften soil and cause it to suddenly collapse into the water under any weight.

Occasionally, Toronto will be hit with a severe winter storm accompanied by significant snowfall (quite often mixed with freezing rain/ice/sleet). Avoid driving during and immediately after the storms if at all feasible. This is especially true for those unfamiliar with winter driving and controlling a vehicle in a skid. Take public transit, walk, or stay inside.

Consulates

The Office of International Relations and Protocol

This office manages the Government of Ontario’s interaction with the largest consular corps in Canada (and one of the largest in the world). Approximately  100 countries are represented in Toronto.

Brazil | 77 Bloor Street West, Suite 1109 ☎ +1 416 922-2503 +1 416 922-1832

China - 240 St. George Street ☎ +1 416 964-7260

El Salvador | 103504.2104@ 151 Bloor Street West, Suite 320 ☎ +1 416 975-0812 +1 416 975-0283

India | 365 Bloor Street East ☎ +1 416 960-0751 | Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9AM to 11:30AM

South Africa | 110 Sheppard Ave E, Suite 600, North York ☎ +1 416 944-8825 +1 416 944-0925

Russia | 175 Bloor Street East, South Tower, Suite 801 ☎ +1 416 962-9911 +1 416 962-6611 Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 9:30AM to 12:30PM| price=

Explore more Halal friendly Destinations from Toronto

Toronto is a great starting point for adventuring southern Ontario. There are many golden sand beaches along the clean fresh waters of the Great Lakes that are ideal for hot summer days. Popular beach destinations within 1½-2½ hours of Toronto include Wasaga, Sauble Beach, Sandbanks, Grand Bend, Long Point, and Türkiye Point.

South

• Niagara Region — A lush region known primarily for its orchards and vineyards as well as the thundering waterfalls at Niagara Falls and the beautiful town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. On the American side of the Falls are several outlet malls. 1-1½ hours south along the QEW; a few tour buses make the same-day return trip.
• Buffalo — Gorgeous early 20th-century architecture including some Frank Lloyd Wright work and excellent museums are a 1½ hour drive from Toronto.

West

• The Niagara Escarpment — A world biosphere, protected by UN mandate running from the Niagara Falls west to Hamilton then northward to Georgian Bay. It is covered by forest with high cliff views along the Bruce Trail bordering the western edge of the Greater Toronto Area, at its closest point it is about a ½-hour drive from the western end of Toronto.
• Region of Waterloo Region — This area 1-1½ hours west of Toronto has large university campuses, rolling farm hills and Mennonite culture.
• Stratford — This cute town 2 hours west of Toronto is host to the world-renowned Stratford Shakespeare Festival (April–November).

East

• Thousand Islands and Kingston — This scenic area and its nearby historic city are 3 hours east, on the way to Ottawa
• Ottawa — The Canadian capital is about a 4½-hour drive from Toronto.

North

• Main Street Unionville, located in the suburban city of Markham north of Toronto, is a historic village developed in the 1840s. As typical of a small village, it has many quaint period buildings in an idyllic surrounding.
• Muskoka, Georgian Triangle and The Kawarthas — All 1½–2 hours north are cottage country areas with more rocky and hilly terrain speckled with hundreds of lakes and waterways. Muskoka and the Kawarthas are known for their country inns, cottages, spas/resorts, provincial parks, and a wealth of outdoor activities including camping, fishing/hunting, snowmobiling, nature viewing, and hiking set among natural beauty. The Georgian Bay area is where the hilly terrain and cliffs of the Niagara Escarpment meet its shores and the area has renowned ski facilities frequently blasted with high snowfall amounts but beaches Wasaga Beach, Cafes and golfing are the choices in summer.
• Newmarket has its attractive Main Street Heritage Conservation District and many legacy buildings within a walkable area.
• Many people visit these regions in fall to experience some of the best fall-colour leaves anywhere in the world.

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