Are you planning a day trip to Toronto? Whether you’re just passing through, want a break or have a stopover, there are numerous things to do. Toronto is a multicultural and dynamic city with no shortage of things to do or places to see.
To ensure you take in as much of Toronto as you can, you’ll have to plan your day wisely. But you’ll have to make some difficult choices. To help you make the most of your trip, here are some suggestions for your one-day itinerary.
A Guide to a Perfect Day in Toronto
Want to make the most of your one-day visit to Toronto? Here’s an itinerary with just a few options, including the city’s top activities and sightseeing attractions.
Arriving in Toronto
Toronto is situated in Ontario and is Canada’s most populated city. If you have a flight into the city, you’ll most likely arrive at Toronto Pearson International Airport, which is located in nearby Mississauga. From there, you can choose one of four modes of transportation:
- Pearson Airport Limousine
One of the most popular modes of transportation used by new arrivals in Toronto, whether for business or a vacation, is Pearson’s airport limousine services. These help you avoid the hassle of having to look for a transport method as soon as you arrive at the airport. They are convenient and you can rest assured knowing you will get to your destination on time. Additionally, most airport limousine companies employ trained chauffeurs who guarantee a safe ride. They are also familiar with the city’s routes and can take shortcuts to ensure you get to your destination easily.
- Union Pearson Express
This fast transit line connects Pearson with Union Station, Toronto’s downtown transit hub. Transit time is only 25 minutes and will cost up to 25 CAD for a return ticket.
- TTC
The TTC effectively manages public transportation within the city. You can buy a day pass from vending machines in Terminals 1 and 3 that can get you around the city. This method can help you reach your hotel and connects to sightseeing attractions, making it ideal for those travelling on a budget.
Sunrise at the Lake
If you reach the city before dawn, you might be able to catch the sunrise and also take a morning walk for a fresh start to your day. If this sounds like something you want to do, head to the waterfront at Lake Ontario. The pathway here is used by joggers, runners and cyclists.
Visit the CN Tower
The CN Tower is one of Toronto’s most popular tourist sights and, until 2008, was the tallest freestanding manmade structure in the world. It can withstand earthquakes up to 8.5 on the Richter scale. While there, you can have a meal at the 360 Restaurant with mouth-watering food. Also, as the name suggests, the restaurant takes 360-degree rotation every 72 hours offering a panoramic view of the city below. Next, you can also try the EdgeWalk which is a safe outdoor walk from a great height.
Go to Ripley’s Aquarium
The Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is another tourist attraction which is located at the base of the CN Tower. They have numerous galleries that you can visit or if you are looking to dive in further, you can sign up for programs such as the Sleep with the Sharks or the Stingray Experience.
Eat at Chinatown
Toronto’s Chinatown is considered to be one of the most culturally vibrant neighbourhoods in the city, the primary attractions being the dumpling and hand-pulled noodle joints. Here, you will have the opportunity to watch chefs as they twist, stretch and fold Lanzhou-style noodles. Then, the noodles are doused in a rich stock and topped with cucumbers, carrots, cilantro and beef. A favourite of the locals is the GB Noodles where la mian noodles are pulled, woven and served by authentic Chinese chefs to perfection. A visit here allows travellers to enjoy a show and indulge in a scrumptious meal.
Shop at Toronto Eaton Centre
If you are looking to go shopping on your short trip, the Eaton Centre is one of the most popular malls which house a wide range of stores. Although it used to be a bit dated, it has recently undergone revitalization with high-end stores opening up. If you get hungry and tired from all the splurging, you can check out Leña Restaurante which is a South-American restaurant located at the corner of Richmond and Yonge.
As you can see, there are lots of things you can do within a day in Toronto. The city has an efficient transportation system including Pearson airport limousine and the Toronto Transit Centre among numerous others. They can help you get from one place to another with ease. With so many things to offer, it’s impossible to do everything in a single day. Hopefully, this list can help you choose the right places to visit and activities to take part in and make the most of your one-day visit to Toronto.