Toronto, Canada-2-day-itinerary

Toronto 2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Morning

  • Start at Union Station: Begin your day at Union Station, a historic landmark and main transportation hub in Toronto.
  • Walk to the Waterfront: From Union Station, take a short walk to the waterfront area, where you can enjoy stunning views of Lake Ontario.

Afternoon

  • Visit the CN Tower: Take a short walk to the iconic CN Tower, a must-visit attraction in Toronto. Enjoy panoramic views of the city from its observation decks.
  • Explore the nearby Rogers Centre: Catch a baseball game at Rogers Centre (formerly SkyDome) or take a guided tour of the stadium.

Evening

  • Eat at St. Lawrence Market: Head to St. Lawrence Market, a historic marketplace with over 120 vendors offering food, drinks, and souvenirs.
  • Take a stroll in the Entertainment District: End your evening with a walk through the vibrant Entertainment District, where you’ll find street performers, bars, and restaurants.

Day 2

Morning

  • Visit Kensington Market: Start your day in Kensington Market, a colorful and eclectic neighborhood filled with vintage shops, cafes, and international eateries.
  • Explore Chinatown: Take a short walk to Chinatown, one of the largest Chinese communities in North America.

Afternoon

  • Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Spend the afternoon exploring the ROM, which features a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits from around the world.
  • Take a stroll in Queen’s Park: Relax with a leisurely walk through Queen’s Park, a beautiful green space surrounded by historic buildings and monuments.

Evening

  • Dine in Little Italy: Head to Little Italy, where you’ll find authentic Italian cuisine and lively atmosphere.
  • End your evening at the Toronto Sign: Take a photo opportunity at the iconic Toronto Sign, located at Nathan Phillips Square.

Where to Stay

  • Downtown Core Hotels: Choose from a range of hotels in the downtown core, including the Fairmont Royal York, InterContinental Toronto Centre, and Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel.
  • Budget-Friendly Options: Consider staying in a hostel or Airbnb in the Kensington Market or Chinatown areas.

Things to Know

  • Weather: Be prepared for variable weather conditions in Toronto, with warm summers and cold winters. Pack accordingly!
  • Tipping Culture: Tipping is customary in Canada, with 15% to 20% expected at restaurants and bars.
  • Language: While English is the primary language spoken in Toronto, you may also hear Cantonese, Mandarin, and other languages spoken by the city’s diverse population.

Transportation

  • TTC (Toronto Transit Commission): Use the TTC subway system, buses, or streetcars to get around the city. Purchase a Presto card for convenient travel.
  • Ride-hailing: Uber and Lyft operate in Toronto, but be aware of surge pricing during peak hours.

Tips

  • Purchase a CityPASS: Consider buying a CityPASS, which grants you discounted admission to many attractions listed above.
  • Explore Neighborhoods: Take your time exploring Toronto’s unique neighborhoods, each with its own character and charm.
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Be prepared for crowds at popular attractions and plan accordingly.

Other Things of Interest

  • Toronto Islands: Take a ferry to the Toronto Islands, a car-free haven with beaches, gardens, and picnic areas.
  • Street Art: Keep an eye out for vibrant street art in the Graffiti Alley and surrounding neighborhoods.
  • Festivals and Events: Check out Toronto’s festival calendar, featuring events like TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival), Pride Month, and NXNE (North by Northeast).