Overview
Having lived in Toronto for 20 years, we have explored every corner of the fourth largest city in North America. While traveling full-time, we had the opportunity to visit Toronto as tourists, gaining a different perspective. While this beautiful city on the shores of Lake Ontario can’t be fully explored in 24 hours, we understand that many people only have one day in Toronto. Therefore, we’ve created the perfect one-day itinerary to help you see the best of the city while having a few adventures to maximize your short stay.
1 Day in Toronto Itinerary
Getting around Toronto for this itinerary is straightforward with the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission), the city’s public transit system. You will either walk or hop on the streetcar or subway. If you’re eager to see much of the city, Ubers are readily available. Make sure to get a PRESTO Card, which allows easy access to public transport during your one-day stay in Toronto, as it works for the subway, streetcars, and buses. A map at the bottom of this itinerary can be downloaded to guide you through your day.
Morning Activities
This itinerary focuses on top Toronto attractions that tourists often wish to see. Since it is a one-day itinerary for those visiting Toronto for a short trip, we’re sticking to the downtown core and most popular landmarks. If this is your first visit, you will want to cover these key locations before exploring other areas of the city.
Explore the Distillery District
Start in the East End of Toronto and head to the nearby Distillery District, a pedestrian-only village filled with Victorian-era buildings, art galleries, boutique shops, and delightful cafes. Savor a coffee at Balzac’s and enjoy a leisurely stroll, taking photos and indulging in treats from places like Soma Chocolatemaker, known for its handmade chocolates. The Distillery District is one of Toronto’s top attractions, particularly during its vibrant Christmas Market in winter or at its many restaurants and breweries.
Start with a Coffee at St. Lawrence Market
Who doesn’t enjoy beginning their day at a local market? St. Lawrence Market is considered one of the world’s great markets and a historic landmark located on Front Street East. Open since 1803, the market features plentiful fresh produce, artisanal goods, and tempting breakfast options. Grab a coffee and a pastry from Carousel Bakery, famous for its peameal bacon sandwich.
Flatiron Building
Continue west along Front Street to see fun landmarks like Toronto’s Flatiron Building and the charming dog fountain in Berczy Park. Take a closer look; you’ll find a bunch of dogs eagerly looking up at a giant bone. This is a delightful walk, although it may be under construction, so be prepared.
Front Street Attractions
Keep walking as there are more attractions along the way. Beginning at Union Station, you can admire its stunning architecture. Across the street, housing the Hockey Hall of Fame, sports enthusiasts might want a quick visit. As you progress along Front Street, notable sights include the famous Fairmont Royal York Hotel, Roger’s Centre—home to the Toronto Blue Jays—and ultimately, the iconic CN Tower, your next destination.
CN Tower EdgeWalk
No visit to Toronto is complete without a trip to the CN Tower, which stands at 553 meters and was once the tallest tower in the world. Although it has lost that title, it remains spectacular, overlooking Lake Ontario and much of the city. If the dome is open, you might even catch a glimpse of a Toronto Blue Jays game playing below.
Toronto Railway Museum
Even if trains aren’t your passion, the Toronto Railway Museum at Roundhouse Park is worth a visit. Located just south of the CN Tower, it showcases Canada’s railway history in the historic John Street Roundhouse, featuring vintage railway cars and locomotives against the stunning backdrop of the Toronto skyline.
Enjoy Lunch at Kensington Market
Hop on the Spadina Streetcar and make your way to Kensington Market for lunch. Disembark at Queen Street to stroll through Toronto’s vibrant Chinatown. The city is filled with diverse neighborhoods, and while you can’t see them all, Kensington and Chinatown you can experience in one trip.
Kensington Market is a huge city block featuring an eclectic mix of food from around the world, vintage shops, and great people-watching opportunities. Whether craving Mexican, Middle Eastern, or vegan cuisine, you’ll find something to satisfy your palate. Seven Lives is renowned for its mouthwatering tacos, while Rasta Pasta creatively fuses Italian and Jamaican cuisine.
Afternoon Attractions
After lunch, navigate back to Queen Street, adding more exciting activities to your list before exploring the entertainment and fashion districts of Toronto.
Visit the Art Gallery of Ontario
While in Toronto, consider visiting the Royal Ontario Museum or the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO). Since you’ll already be in the Queen Street West area, we recommend the AGO for its unique Group of Seven exhibit, showcasing some of Canada’s most respected artists.
The AGO is one of North America’s largest art museums, boasting over 90,000 works spanning centuries. Its extensive Canadian collection and the striking architecture designed by Frank Gehry add to the allure, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts.
Stroll Through Graffiti Alley
A visit to Graffiti Alley is essential for any Toronto itinerary. This vibrant space features impressive street art along Rush Lane, stretching between Spadina Avenue and Portland Street. It serves as an outdoor gallery filled with murals and graffiti created by local and international artists, providing an exceptional photographic opportunity.
Visit the Toronto Sign at Nathan Phillips Square
As you head north, make your way to Nathan Phillips Square to capture a photo at the iconic Toronto sign. Located in the city’s center, this area often hosts lively events, ice skating in winter, and summer outdoor festivals. Don’t miss out on snapping your selfie here!
Yonge and Dundas Square
Continue your journey along Queen Street towards Yonge and Dundas Square, the pulsating heart of the city center. Similar to Times Square in New York, it’s vibrant and full of life, surrounded by great eateries and shopping opportunities at the Eaton Centre.
Yorkville
To truly experience Toronto, you should head to Yorkville. Just three subway stops from Dundas, this area boasts high-end shops known as the Million Dollar Mile. Consider taking a brief tour around the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) before exploring Yorkville in search of dinner options.
Dining Options and Night Activities
At this point in the day, you’re likely feeling hungry.
Dine in Yorkville
Yorkville offers a delightful dining experience. Among our favorites are Cibo Wine Bar and Trattoria Nervosa if you prefer Italian cuisine. Sassafraz, located at the corner of Cumberland and Belair, is a local staple. For a relaxed rooftop experience, consider Hemingways or the Pilot, both nestled in this charming Toronto neighborhood.
How to Get to Toronto
Reaching Toronto is easy, whether traveling by train, plane, or bus. If you’re flying, Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) serves as the primary airport, with options for the Up Express to Bloor Street or Union Station. Taxis and Ubers are widely available.
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ) on Toronto Island provides regional flights and is just a short ferry ride from downtown.
For train travelers, VIA Rail operates comfortable and scenic routes from various Canadian cities, with Union Station as the central hub in Toronto.
If you’re considering a bus trip, various options connect Toronto to numerous North American destinations, including Niagara Falls. Buses are affordable and convenient if you plan to explore this popular attraction.
Where to Stay in Toronto
If you plan to stay overnight, especially after exploring the city, we recommend booking accommodations in advance for the best deals. Toronto hotel prices can be steep, but with some foresight, good deals are available.
For those seeking outdoor options, popular spots like the Toronto Islands provide opportunities for picnics and stunning views. High Park attracts visitors for its cherry blossoms, while Trinity Bellwoods Park is favored for its relaxed atmosphere.
Travel Planning Resources
Using these trusted resources can aid in planning your next adventure:
- Find Flights: Discover the best flight deals on Skyscanner.
- Hotel Reservations: Use Booking.com in Europe and TripAdvisor elsewhere for great hotel prices.
- Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check VRBO.
- Travel Insurance: Secure protection with Safety Wing for occasional travelers and Medjet for global medical transport and security.
