From its spectacular scenery to its vibrant cities and hospitality, Canada offers a wealth of opportunity to its visitors. Canada is recognized globally for its outstanding quality of life, stable, progressive political environment, and one of the healthiest economies in the world. The United Nations ranked Canada for eight consecutive years as the best country in the world in which to live. Canadians love to share their clean, safe, beautiful country with visitors from around the world.

 

Canada’s largest city, Toronto, is commonly referred to as “the world within a city”. Boasting more than 4.8 million residents representing more than 80 ethnic groups, Toronto is known for its unrivalled array of over 5,000 restaurants, world-class theatre scene, diverse neighbourhoods, and assorted highlights unique to Ontario’s capital city.

 

As Canada’s financial centre and top visitor destination, Toronto offers its residents and guests a plethora of things to see and do. Year-round sights and attractions include the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Royal Ontario Museum, the Hockey Hall of Fame, the Toronto Zoo, and not-to-be-missed Niagara Falls located a little more than an hour’s drive from Toronto. International sport competitions and professional teams vie for attention, while Toronto’s vibrant performing arts scene explodes with colour and magic. Toronto’s restaurants reflect the multitude of cultures that harmoniously co-exist within the city’s borders.

 

A trip to Toronto wouldn’t be complete without exploring the city’s many shopping opportunities, from the upscale boutiques of Yorkville to the alternative shopping and art gallery scene of Queen Street West. Visitors must view the dazzling panorama of Lake Ontario, Toronto Island and the pulsing city itself from the top of the CN Tower, the tallest building in the world.

 

Attractions

 

Toronto and area offers a vast array of activities and attractions. From the world famous (i.e. CN Tower, Niagara Falls) to the local not-so-best-kept secrets (Kensington Market, Toronto Island), Toronto has an outing to fit your schedule and budget. From Art Galleries to Alternative Theatre; Golf Courses to Roller Coasters, Toronto offers activities for the whole family.
Click here to visit Tourism Toronto and see what Toronto has to offer

 

Banks

 

Bank hours and days of business will vary depending on the bank as well as on its location. Generally, banks are open from 10:00 to 16:00, Monday to Friday. Some banks also open on Saturday and/or operate longer business hours.

 

Business Hours

 

Most stores are open from Monday through Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00 and usually on Sunday as well.

 

Climate

 

The climate in Toronto is temperate, comparable to cities such as New York City, London and Paris. Temperature in June ranges from 11 – 27 °C with an average of 17 °C (62°F).

 

Clothing

 

Generally anything goes in the summer in Toronto – from shorts and sandals to jeans and sundresses – but please take note: shirts and shoes are mandatory at most dining and retail establishments.

 

Drinking water

 

Tap water in Toronto is safe to drink.

 

Electrical appliances

 

The electrical voltage system in Canada is 110 volts. Those travelling from a country outside of North America will need a proper voltage converter and adapter in order to operate their electrical appliances.

 

Health Insurance

 

Visitors are advised to obtain health insurance before leaving their home province or country. There are no compulsory health requirements for entry into Canada.

 

Language

 

There are two official languages in Canada: English and French. In addition to these official languages, the top five languages spoken in Toronto are Chinese, Italian, Tamil, Portuguese and Spanish.

 

Local time

 

Toronto is in the Eastern Standard Time zone (EST) which is five hours earlier than Greenwich Mean Time (UTC/GMT) and is in the same time zone as New York City.

 

Maps

 

 

Money

 

The money system in Canada is based on Canadian dollars ($CAD) and cents. International currency exchange services are available at Lester B. Pearson International Airport as well as at banks and currency exchange outlets located throughout the city.

 

U.S. dollars are accepted at many places in Toronto, although change from transactions will be provided in Canadian currency and exchange rates will differ with each merchant.

 

Cash machines/ATMs are available in most banks, hotels, shopping malls and at the Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel, with cash dispensed in Canadian currency.

 

Traveller’s cheques and credit cards are accepted at most major retailers.

 

Personal Safety

 

Toronto is generally a safe city, but it is important to take the same precautions you would take anywhere. If you feel unsafe or are unsure about your safety, take the appropriate precautions. In an emergency you can contact the police by dialling 911 from any phone without charge for police, fire or ambulance assistance.

 

Restaurants

 

Toronto has a wide range of restaurants to choose from with offerings from all over the world. Most hotels have a concierge who can recommend local restaurants.

 

Shopping

 

Toronto is famous for its shopping. Home of the renowned Eaton’s Centre, Queen Street and Yorkville, Toronto thrills bargain hunters and fashionistas alike.

 

Smoking

 

Smoking is not permitted in bars, restaurants or public venues in Toronto. Some hotels will offer smoking or non-smoking rooms.

 

Taxes and Tax Rebates

 

Please be aware that you will be charged 13% sales tax (GST / PST) in addition to the cost of most purchases or services. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a 5% tax that is charged on most goods and services sold or provided in Canada. Purchases or services in Toronto are also subject to the 8% Provincial Sales Tax (PST).

 

Non-resident visitors to Canada are entitled to a refund of GST on certain goods they take out of Canada as well as on short-term accommodations.

 

Please keep your receipts if you wish to apply for the tax refund. A copy of the Tax Refund Application for Visitors can be picked up at any Customs office or most tourism information centres, duty-free shops, department stores and some hotels.

 

You can download the form in PDF format by clicking here

 

There are private firms that process tax refunds on behalf of visitors for a fee.

 

Tipping

 

Tips or service charges are not usually added to restaurant bills in Canada. Where service has been satisfactory, it is customary to leave a tip of 15% on the pre-tax amount. Some restaurants will place a mandatory service charge on a bill for a large party.

 

Tips are also expected for services such as haircuts, shoe shines and taxi rides. 15% is standard in these situations as well.

 

Transportation

 

Public Transit (TTC Official Site)

 

Toronto’s public transit system is referred to as the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission). Fair options can be found here and maps can be viewed or downloaded here

 

Driving Around Town

 

Toronto’s streets follow a basic grid pattern and are fairly easy to navigate. Speed limit signs are posted on each street.

 

Parking

 

Parking on most downtown streets is limited to specific times of day, and often requires the purchase and display of a ticket from parking machines located along the street. Cars parked in no parking zones or on streets at parking restricted times may get ticketed or towed.

 

There are also a variety of public parking lots throughout the city. City-owned lots are indicated by a large ‘P’ in a green circle.

 

The Sheraton Centre offers valet and self-park options for a fee.

 

Taxis

 

There is no uniform look for Toronto taxis. Fares are standard, metered and non-negotiable.

 

Visas

 

Citizens of some countries may require a visa to enter Canada. For a full list of countries whose citizens require visas as well as more information, please click here