How to Spend a Day in Toronto
With just one day in Toronto, you’ll want to make the most of your time and see the highlights of the city. As a local, I’ve put together this one-day itinerary to help you explore the best of Toronto in a short amount of time. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this itinerary covers the must-see sights and offers insider tips to make your day in Toronto unforgettable.
Morning:
8:00 AM – Breakfast at St. Lawrence Market Start your day with a hearty breakfast at St. Lawrence Market, a historic food market that has been serving the city since 1803. Try the famous peameal bacon sandwich at Carousel Bakery, a Toronto classic made with peameal bacon (a type of back bacon rolled in cornmeal) on a soft bun with mustard.
9:00 AM – Visit the CN Tower Head to the CN Tower, one of the tallest freestanding structures in the world. Take the glass elevator to the observation deck and enjoy panoramic views of the city, Lake Ontario, and the surrounding region. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the EdgeWalk, where you can walk along the edge of the tower’s main pod, 356 meters above the ground.
10:30 AM – Explore the Royal Ontario Museum Visit the Royal Ontario Museum, Canada’s largest museum of world cultures and natural history. With over six million objects in its collection, the ROM offers a wide range of exhibits, from ancient artifacts to contemporary art. Explore the galleries dedicated to Canadian history, Indigenous cultures, ancient civilizations, and more.
Afternoon:
12:00 PM – Lunch in Kensington Market Head to Kensington Market, a bohemian neighborhood known for its eclectic shops, street art, and international cuisine. Try some global flavors at the many food stalls and cafes, from Jamaican patties to Mexican tacos to Portuguese pastries.
1:00 PM – Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario Explore the Art Gallery of Ontario, home to a vast collection of Canadian and international art. Discover works by famous artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Emily Carr. Take a guided tour to learn more about the art and the artists.
3:00 PM – Explore the Distillery District Wander the cobblestone streets of the Distillery District, a pedestrian-only area with art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. This former whiskey distillery has been transformed into a vibrant arts and culture hub, with regular events and festivals. Take a guided tour to learn about the history of the district and its transformation.
Evening:
5:00 PM – Dinner in Little Italy Dine in Little Italy, known for its Italian restaurants and lively atmosphere. Enjoy a plate of pasta, a wood-fired pizza, or a creamy risotto, paired with a glass of Italian wine. Don’t forget to save room for dessert, such as tiramisu or cannoli.
7:00 PM – Catch a Show at the Princess of Wales Theatre Enjoy a live performance at the Princess of Wales Theatre, which hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway-style musicals, plays, and concerts. Check the schedule in advance and book your tickets early, as popular shows can sell out quickly.
Conclusion: This one-day itinerary covers the best of Toronto, from its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems. Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or an outdoor enthusiast, Toronto has something for everyone. Explore the city like a local and discover its vibrant and diverse neighborhoods. Enjoy the city’s green spaces, arts and culture, and world-class dining. Make the most of your one day in Toronto and create lasting memories.
Best Tips by a Local
- Use the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) to get around the city. It’s affordable and convenient.
- Take advantage of Toronto’s many free events and festivals, especially in the summer.
- Explore Toronto’s diverse neighborhoods to get a taste of the city’s multicultural heritage.
- Don’t forget to try some of Toronto’s iconic dishes, such as poutine and butter tarts.
Where to Stay in Toronto for 1 Day
- Downtown Toronto: Conveniently located near major attractions, shopping, and dining.
- Yorkville: A trendy neighborhood known for its high-end boutiques and art galleries.
- The Annex: A bohemian neighborhood with a lively arts and culture scene.
f you’re planning to stay in Toronto for just one day, here are some hotel recommendations that are centrally located and offer easy access to the city’s top attractions:
- Fairmont Royal York: This historic hotel is located in the heart of downtown Toronto, just steps from Union Station and the CN Tower. The Fairmont Royal York offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a rooftop garden with stunning views of the city.
- The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto: This upscale hotel is located in the entertainment district, close to the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the Rogers Centre. The Ritz-Carlton offers elegant rooms, a spa, and a rooftop lounge with panoramic views of the city.
- Shangri-La Hotel, Toronto: This luxury hotel is located in the financial district, close to the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Royal Ontario Museum. The Shangri-La offers spacious rooms, a spa, and a restaurant with a seasonal outdoor terrace.
- The Omni King Edward Hotel: This historic hotel is located in the St. Lawrence Market neighborhood, close to the Distillery District and the Eaton Centre. The Omni King Edward offers classic rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant with afternoon tea service.
- The Drake Hotel: This boutique hotel is located in the trendy Queen West neighborhood, close to the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Royal Ontario Museum. The Drake offers eclectic rooms, a rooftop bar, and a restaurant with live music.
- The Hazelton Hotel: This luxury hotel is located in the upscale Yorkville neighborhood, close to the Royal Ontario Museum and the Bata Shoe Museum. The Hazelton offers chic rooms, a spa, and a restaurant with a seasonal outdoor terrace.
- The Broadview Hotel: This boutique hotel is located in the Riverside neighborhood, close to the Distillery District and the St. Lawrence Market. The Broadview offers stylish rooms, a rooftop bar, and a restaurant with a seasonal outdoor terrace.
- Hotel X Toronto: This modern hotel is located on the waterfront, close to the CN Tower and the Rogers Centre. Hotel X offers contemporary rooms, a rooftop pool, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the city.
- Bisha Hotel Toronto: This chic hotel is located in the entertainment district, close to the CN Tower and the Rogers Centre. Bisha offers stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, and a restaurant with a seasonal outdoor terrace.
- The Anndore House: This boutique hotel is located in the trendy Yorkville neighborhood, close to the Royal Ontario Museum and the Bata Shoe Museum. The Anndore House offers eclectic rooms, a fitness center, and a restaurant with a seasonal outdoor terrace.
Prices for the Hotels
| Hotel Name | Star Rating | Distance from Airport (km) | Price (in USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Fairmont Royal York | 4 | 27 | $150 |
| The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto | 5 | 27 | $400 |
| The Omni King Edward Hotel | 4.5 | 27 | $250 |
| The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto | 4 | 26 | $200 |
| Shangri-La Hotel Toronto | 5 | 27 | $350 |
| Four Seasons Hotel Toronto | 5 | 22 | $450 |
| Bisha Hotel Toronto | 4.5 | 27 | $300 |
| The Hazelton Hotel | 5 | 22 | $500 |
| The St. Regis Toronto | 5 | 27 | $550 |
| Hotel X Toronto by Library Hotel Collection | 4 | 25 | $180 |
Note: The distances are approximate and may vary depending on the route taken; approximate distance from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ). The prices are also approximate and may vary depending on the time of booking and the availability of rooms. It is always a good idea to check the hotel’s official website or contact the hotel directly for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing and distance information.
How to Get from / to the Airports of Toronto:
- Toronto Pearson International Airport: Take the UP Express train to Union Station in downtown Toronto.
- Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport: Take the free shuttle bus to Union Station.
| Transportation Option | Pearson International Airport (YYZ) | Billy Bishop City Airport (YTZ) |
|---|---|---|
| UP Express Train | Yes (25 minutes to Union Station) | No |
| TTC (Public Transit) | Yes (TTC Bus to Subway Line) | Yes (TTC Streetcar to Subway Line) |
| Airport Shuttle | No | Yes (Free shuttle to Union Station) |
| Taxi / Ride-sharing | Yes | Yes |
| Car Rental | Yes | Yes |
| Private Car Service | Yes | Yes |
Note: The travel times and availability of services may vary depending on the time of day, traffic conditions, and other factors. It’s always a good idea to check the airport websites or transportation service providers for the most up-to-date information.
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