Toronto Travel Guide 2026

Late spring through early fall opens patios, islands, and festivals; winter is cold but manageable with PATH tunnels downtown and skating rinks outdoors. Shoulder weeks dodge peak hotel rates around major events.

Not for downtown—streetcars, subway, and walking cover core sights. Rent a car only for Niagara or countryside day trips; parking downtown is pricey.

Central neighborhoods are generally safe; keep normal awareness on late-night transit and around large events. Diverse food strips reward exploration by day and early evening.

Standard Canadian practice: roughly 15–18% before tax for sit-down meals when service is good; tip prompts appear on counters—use judgment for takeout.

Canadian dollars everywhere; cards widely accepted. US cash may be accepted informally at poor exchange—use ATMs or cards instead.

Feasible by train, bus, or tour—start early to beat crowds; winter visits mean mist ice and shorter boat seasons—check what is operating.