Toronto is one of the world's most culturally diverse cities, and proudly so. You'll hear more than 140 languages and dialects spoken on the streets in this "City of Neighborhoods." Toronto boasts a few Chinatowns, a Greek Town, Little Italy (and a Corso Italia), a Koreatown and a Little Portugal, to name a few. It's the most populous city in Canada (more than 5 million in the Greater Toronto Area) and the province of Ontario’s economic engine. With an abundance of green spaces, a lakeside waterfront, global eats, and a treasure trove of things to experience, T+L’s Toronto travel guide shows exactly what makes the city special.
Visit Toronto, and one of the first things you’ll notice, apart from the vibrant cultural mosaic woven into its tapestry, is that the city’s appeal lies in its denizens' friendliness: ask for directions, and you'll be helped. Bump a local by accident, and he’ll likely say "Sorry!" to you first. Along with its highly artistic culture and fascinating museums that proudly display the country’s history, it’s clear that a Toronto trip has something for everyone, and we’ve got the scoop on how to make the most of your vacation to the Great White North.
Canada isn’t known for its hospitable weather, so pay attention to the forecast before scheduling your vacation: The local climate is moderated by Lake Ontario. Spring and autumn see both sunshine and rain; during these seasons, nights tend to be cooler, and the days can only be described as pleasant, if not warm. Although winters are accompanied by frigid temperatures, they do not always bring snow to Toronto, due to the minimizing effect of the lake. There are usually two or three heavy snowfalls each season.
Late spring, early summer and fall are the most pleasant walking months in the city—and this is a walkable city. September, one of the loveliest months of the year, is also packed with the Toronto International Film Festival fêtes and a spate of other weekend festivals.
The Toronto Transportation Commission runs an underground subway system, streetcars and buses to get you from uptown to the waterfront (prices start at $2.25). Licensed taxis and Uber are also common.
July is the hottest month, with an average high of 70°F (21°C), and the coldest is January, with an average high of 28°F (-3°C). Check current weather in Toronto.
Summertime in Toronto is festival time. Just about every weekend, and some weekdays, you’ll find one happening. If crowds aren’t your thing, avoid Caribana festival (July 28 through July 31), when the city greets more 1 million visitors.
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Coded by Zian Bernasol