I was pleasantly surprised by Toronto. It’s one of those cities that instantly feels vibrant and alive the moment you arrive, making you eager to return. What makes Toronto special is the abundance of exciting things to do, scattered all around the city. The city is so diverse that you’ll need several days, maybe even weeks, to fully explore it.
When I visit a new place for the first time, I’m always excited yet overwhelmed by the number of attractions to see. It’s thrilling but can be tiring, so I thought I’d share some must-see spots with you. Here are some top things to do in Toronto, especially if it’s your first visit.
For a breathtaking view of Toronto, head to the CN Tower, located in the downtown area. Sunset is the perfect time to visit, as the entire city is illuminated with a stunning orange hue. Make sure to experience the glass floor and the Skypod, which is even higher than the main deck. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the edge walk outside, which is both terrifying and exhilarating. Keep in mind, it can be crowded during peak times.
In Midtown Toronto, you’ll find Casa Loma, a stunning gothic-style castle. It’s only about a 25-minute cab ride from the harborfront and easily accessible via public transit. While there, explore the great hall, the grand dining room, the beautiful conservatory, and the Towers Staircase for fantastic city views.
One of the joys of visiting new cities is discovering local hotspots, and Toronto has plenty. Coffee lovers should look for spots like Rooster Coffee and Balzac’s, which serve incredible brews in stylish settings.
Another cool thing about Toronto is its proximity to Niagara Falls, just a little over a two-hour drive away. You can make a day trip out of it, driving along the Queen Elizabeth Way. Once you arrive, check out the stunning views of Niagara Falls and visit the historic town of Niagara-on-the-Lake.
Toronto is also a haven for foodies, with countless amazing restaurants to try. You could eat at a new place every day for a year and still not experience everything. For something unique, head to Figures restaurant, which is hidden behind a secret door. Inside, you’ll find a wonderland of comic book heroes, creative cocktails, and tasty food.
The Distillery District, just east of downtown, is a historic area packed with things to do. If you’re hungry, stop by Mill Street Brewery for a tap ale or The Sweet Escape for a dessert. For unique local accessories, visit Corktown Designs. There’s always something happening in the district, so check the event schedule.
Toronto’s Chinatown, dating back to the late 1800s, is a lively neighborhood with great quality, affordable eateries and fresh produce markets. For delicious dumplings, visit the Dumpling House, a casual restaurant that only accepts cash.
Try Ontario’s famous icewine, a sweet treat similar to dessert wine. Most top restaurants in Toronto offer it. If you wish to visit an icewine vineyard, they are about a 1.5-hour drive from downtown.
St. Lawrence Market is a fantastic place for food lovers. Similar to London’s Borough Market, it offers a cool atmosphere and a variety of food stalls. Find something you like and enjoy a tasty lunch.
The Art Gallery of Ontario is a top Canadian gallery, featuring a wide range of permanent and temporary exhibitions. It’s a perfect indoor activity if the weather turns bad. Make sure to check out the Indigenous, Canadian, and contemporary art exhibits.
If you’re staying in Toronto for a few days, you’ll have plenty of accommodation options. We stayed at the magnificent Shangri-La, located in the city center with stunning views and a short walk to the CN Tower. Alternatively, the Delta Hotel next to the CN Tower also offers incredible city views.