Toronto is Canada’s largest city, home to around 2.8 million people, with sprawling suburbs that can initially feel a bit overwhelming. As a city of this size, Toronto offers a diverse range of experiences: world-class theatre, a cutting-edge art scene, a thriving food culture, excellent galleries and museums, vibrant parks, bustling markets, and historic buildings, all set along the edge of Lake Ontario, which seems to stretch endlessly into the horizon. So, where to start?

Many attractions are concentrated within the relatively compact downtown area, which slopes down toward the lake. Full of multicultural influences, it’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in culture — whether exploring galleries, sampling global cuisines, or simply people-watching on the lively harbourfront. A short ferry ride away, the Toronto Islands provide a peaceful, car-free retreat. Explore the parkland by foot or bike, relax on one of the beaches, or cool off in the water during the hot summer months.

Despite its size, Toronto retains a surprisingly laid-back vibe, with friendly locals who reflect the city’s excellent quality of life. It doesn’t take long to ‘get’ Toronto, and once you do, you’ll discover it’s unexpectedly captivating.