Toronto Travel Guide: Must-See Places in Toronto

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or exploring your own city, Toronto offers endless attractions, amazing food, and vibrant neighborhoods to discover. From iconic landmarks like the CN Tower to hidden gems in St. Lawrence Market (South), this diverse city has something for every kind of traveler. In this guide, I’ll share the must-see places in Toronto you won’t want to miss!

I’ve always had a fondness for places that resist the passage of time, those that manage to preserve traces of the past while still meeting the needs of the present. Toronto’s Distillery District, one of the city’s national historic sites, is a perfect example of that balance. Its roots go back to 1832, when William Gooderham and James Worts founded what would eventually become the largest distillery in the British Empire: Gooderham & Worts.

The red-brick complex operated for more than 150 years before closing in 1990. After standing idle for many years, the site was reborn through extensive restoration and reopened in 2003 as one of Toronto’s most vibrant hubs for art, culture, and urban life. Today, the Distillery District remains one of the city’s most inspiring places to spend a day. For more information about the Distillery District: https://www.thedistillerydistrict.com/ & https://thedistilleryheritage.com/

Serving Torontonians for more than two centuries, this historic market is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves food. With over 120 vendors, the lower and main floors are filled with stalls selling fruits, vegetables, spices, and ready-to-eat dishes, a true paradise for food enthusiasts. The second floor is mostly dedicated to artistic activities. After exploring the St. Lawrence Market, you can grab a meal from one of the food stalls and enjoy it at the outdoor seating area just outside the building. The market is open every day of the week. For more information, visit stlawrencemarket.com

In an article titled “Toronto Travel Guide,” it would be impossible not to mention the Royal Ontario Museum, Canada’s most famous museum, located in the heart of Toronto. With its vast exhibition halls and impressive collections, this place stands as a true fortress of culture.

Opened in 1914, the museum displays more than 18 million works of art from different regions and time periods around the world. These works are showcased in dozens of diverse galleries such as dinosaurs, birds, the Middle East, China, Egypt, toy soldiers, and world treasures. It’s not possible to explore the Royal Ontario Museum in just a few hours. Therefore, if you have the time, I recommend dedicating at least a full day — or ideally two days — to visiting the museum. For more information about the museum: https://www.rom.on.ca/

When you stroll through downtown Toronto and lift your gaze just a little, you’ll likely notice a remarkably tall tower rising above the skyline. That’s the CN Tower — one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Opened in 1976 and standing at a total height of 553.3 meters, it welcomes hundreds of visitors every day. The CN Tower is one of the most popular spots for those who want to escape the cluster of skyscrapers and enjoy a breathtaking view of the city from above.

Depending on your budget, you can choose from several experiences. The most popular one is visiting the main observation level at 346 meters, where you can admire stunning panoramic views of Toronto. For an even higher perspective, you can pay an additional fee to reach “The Top,” located at 447 meters. And if you’re craving some real adventure, the “EdgeWalk” experience lets you step outside the tower and walk around its edge — safely harnessed, of course. For more information about the CN Tower and tickets, visit www.cntower.ca.

Toronto is a city that truly embraces the water. Around Lake Ontario, you’ll find plenty of beautiful spots where both locals and visitors can relax and enjoy the view. One of the most vibrant of these is the Harbourfront area — a lively lakeside district filled with walking paths, green parks, cozy cafés, and waterfront restaurants.

It’s the perfect place to soak up the sunshine and enjoy Toronto at its best. You can take a peaceful stroll along the shore, hop on a boat tour across the lake, or simply sit on a bench and enjoy the calm, refreshing view of the water.

If you love shopping, Toronto won’t disappoint you. The city offers something for every style and budget. Start your day at the Eaton Centre, right in the heart of downtown, where you’ll find hundreds of stores ranging from popular global brands to stylish local favorites. Just a short subway ride away, Yorkdale Shopping Centre takes things up a notch with its elegant atmosphere and impressive collection of high-end boutiques.

For those who prefer a more creative and laid-back vibe, head over to Queen Street West, famous for its trendy shops, local designers, and cool street style. Nearby, Kensington Market is a must-visit for vintage lovers and anyone looking for one-of-a-kind pieces from around the world. And if you’d rather combine shopping with great food, St. Lawrence Market offers local delicacies, artisanal products, and a true taste of Toronto’s culture. Finally, for a touch of luxury, wander through Bloor-Yorkville, home to designer labels and chic boutiques in one of the city’s most elegant neighborhoods.