Toronto
Canada
Backpacking Toronto
Information on Toronto, sights to see, nightlife, activities and more.
Toronto, a huge, loveable city spread across the shores of Lake Ontario, is Canada at its most cultured. More sophisticated than Vancouver and more cosmopolitan than Ottawa, Toronto’s tower dominated skyline and bar-lined downtown districts are eclectic, open and peppered with different flavors. After all, this is one of the most multicultural cities on the planet. Despite not being Canada’s capital, it might as well be since its the biggest metropolis, and has all the energy, verve and electricity you’d expect of a capital. Undoubtedly the city’s most iconic landmark is the CN tower, one of the world’s largest manmade structures thrusting skyward over the city center. Just as emblematic of the city, however, is its quirky patchwork of outlying neighborhoods. primed with markets, coffee shops galleries and vintage stores. You’ll often find an independent streak to the city. Canada being Canada means a trip here can be very different in the summer as opposed to winter. The warmer months are a better time to visit, festivals are happening and attractions like the Toronto Islands where you can cycle or go to the beach are open. Culture and sport are large here to. The entertainment district has plenty of shows to see as well as year round sports whether it be hockey, soccer, basketball or baseball. Thanks to the diversity of the city’s inhabitants there are loads of restaurants where you can enjoy food from just about everywhere in the world.
Must See
CN Tower - At 553 meters, the CN Tower is not only the tallest building in Toronto, but it is also the tallest free standing building on the continent. It also happens to one of the modern Seven Wonders of the World. The CN Tower boasts the highest glass floor paneled elevator in the world, which lifts passengers up to its magnificent glass floored viewing deck. View the city from even higher at the 447 metre high SkyPod, which offers insanely spectacular views. Those that really want to get their heart pumping should try SkyWalk, where participants are standing on a hands-free ledge towering over the city.
Toronto Islands - There are a few small islands in Lake Ontario that are part of the city; hence their name the Toronto Islands. There are 13 islands in total that are spread across 820 acres. Centre Island is the most popular of the islands, as it features a massive park with picnic areas, a beach, and magnificent gardens.
Sports Events - Toronto is a sports crazy city and they have the only MLB and NBA team in Canada. Catch a hugely popular Toronto Maple Leaf’s hockey game, or Toronto Raptors basketball game. During the summer the Toronto FC, who play in North America’s top soccer league, games will sell out. If baseball is more your thing you can catch a Blue Jays game at the Rogers center right in the heart of the city.
Must Do
Explore the Distillery District - Designated as a National Historic Site of Canada, many of the buildings here are stunning heritage buildings that have been converted into shops, restaurants, bars and lofts. It is truly a great place for culture, dining and shopping. It is even home to some fantastic micro-breweries. Art galleries, jewelry stores and funky coffeehouses can all be found in the Distillery District. Before Christmas, the area turns into a winter wonderland with its world renowned Christmas Market.
Shop for Food at St. Lawrence Market - The city’s largest market is a definite must-do on any trip to Toronto. The South Market is home to over 120 specialty food vendors selling everything from fresh produce and baked goods, to prepared foods, dairy, meat, and seafood. Saturdays in the summer you’ll find a bustling farmers’ market at the North Building.
Explore West Queen West - Toronto’s eclectic West Queen West neighborhood is one of the coolest neighborhood in the world thanks to its vibrant mix of independent shops and boutiques, bars, a large concentration of art galleries, restaurants, and cafes.
Explore Kensington Market - One of the most fun and eclectic neighborhoods to explore in Toronto has to be Kensington Market. Brimming with a variety of vintage stores, a diverse array of restaurants and bars, food shops and cafes, it’s easy to spend a whole day wandering, shopping and eating your way through the vibrant area.
Nightlife
Day or night, Toronto is a lively place when it comes to food, entertainment and culture. Each district has its own charm, and when it gets dark, the city comes to life. Here are some of the best spots to explore once the sun has gone down.
King West - This area used to be populated by warehouses and industrial buildings, but is better known now for the dining and clubbing options on offer. Aside from a vast number of bars and clubs, there is everything from swanky hotel rooftops to upscale lounges.
Queen West/West Queen West - Queen West has always been a happening hood and there are plenty of bars that are really popular with the locals.
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