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Discover Toronto

Hotels, halal food, prayer spaces, things to do, and itineraries in Toronto.

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Toronto
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Must-see attractions in Toronto

From headline landmarks and heritage icons to parks, waterfronts, and major museums, discover 14 standout sights to build into your time in the city.

Toronto is the most populated city in Canada. As the country's economic capital, it is considered a global city and one of the top financial centres in the world. Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in terms of non-native-born residents. This city is dynamic; with constant redevelopment, new skyscrapers springing up and a thoroughly global culture. Toronto is one of the fastest-growing cities in North America, with immigrants pouring in from around the world.

Halal restaurants in Toronto

Toronto’s food scene is part of the city experience. Choose from 20 restaurants and food districts with location notes and planning tips.

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Susur

Susur is a jewel; elegant and unpretentious. The menu offers divine fusion cuisine prepared with great care. The menu is constantly updated and the rare venison loin with Gorgonzola-hawberry sauce is highly recommendable. The staff is extremely helpful and efficient.

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Bistro 990

Bistro 990 is a favourite with celebrities. The menu proffers hors d'oeuvres, such as octopus and vegetables in citrus marinade. The main dishes are classics like roasted half chicken with garlic mashed potatoes. For dessert, opt for the Pineapple Tarte Tatin which is highly delectable and made fresh daily. The service is attentive and accommodating. Cuisine: French Address: 990 Bay St Tel: (416) 921-9990

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Edward Levesque’s Kitchen

This bistro presents elegant and utterly heavenly cuisine and smooth service. The entire menu is divine making it hard to choose from grilled leg of lamb rubbed with cumin and garlic, or an asparagus, chive and lemon risotto with Atlantic salmon. This Kitchen is all the rage at brunch time especially for their frittata made with goat cheese and fresh rosemary.

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North 44

This restaurant is highly reputed and does justice to its reputation. The menu is a combination of Mediterranean, American and Asian delicacies. Their creations are sumptuous to look at and to taste; take their roasted Muscovy duck breast with orange-soy marinade and foie gras, their caramelized squash ravioli with black truffle essence. The desserts, such as lemon meringue mille-feuille, are among the finest in Toronto. What really puts North 44 ahead of others is its faultless service.

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Perigee

This spectacular restaurant is full of surprises. All you have to do is decide whether you want a five, six or seven course meal. The attentive and well-trained staff then carefully note down your likes and dislikes regarding food to determine how daring your taste buds are. Perigee’s kitchen is situated in the middle of the room so you can watch your delicious masterpieces being made. The finished dish will be a surprise; but definitely a delightful one-creative, well-presented and delectable. Cuisine: Eclectic Address: 55 Mill Street Tel: (416) 364-1397

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Kensington Kitchen

This Kitchen is a gem- Serving up big portions at a small cost, appetizing dishes like angel hair pasta with shrimps, mussels in tomato-coriander sauce; saffron paella with chicken and sausage; and Turkish-style braised lamb stuffed with raisins, eggplant, apricots, and figs are all on the menu. Their rooftop patio is a lovely place to eat.

Where to stay in Toronto

Choose where to stay by trip style, from landmark luxury and family bases to central, airport, and neighborhood-led stays.

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Hilton Toronto

The Hilton is a sophisticated choice. Located centrally in Downtown Toronto this magnificent hotel is tastefully decorated with an extensive use of glass, an illuminated canopy and photographic art. The Hilton boasts capacious and luxurious suites. Certain rooms provide access to a private lounge that serves delectable snacks and breakfast. This hotel has many facilities such as; restaurants, a bar, indoor and outdoor pools, health club, Jacuzzi, sauna, 24 hour room service, massage, babysitting services, laundry, dry-cleaning amenities and a business center. Address: 145 Richmond St. W Tel: (416) 869-3456 Website: www.toronto.hilton.com

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Four Seasons Hotel Toronto

The Four Seasons is favored by the glitterati. The hotel is situated in the ritzy Yorkville neighborhood. It reputedly offers superior service and total comfort. The décor is wonderful, with marble floors and striking floral arrangements. While the rooms are not necessarily large, they are beautifully designed and furnished. Corner rooms have delightful balconies overlooking the street. Facilities provided by the Four Seasons are extensive including; 2 restaurants, 2 bars/lounges, ballrooms, indoor/outdoor pool; health club, Jacuzzi, bike rental, concierge, business center, 24 hour room service, massage, babysitting and laundry service/dry cleaning to name a few.

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Park Hyatt

Arguably the very best hotel in Toronto, the Park Hyatt has prime location in the superior Yorkville district. The hotel is gorgeous with magnificent fireplaces, an open-air terrace and stunning lobby. The guestrooms are of a generous size and facilities offered include a restaurant, 2 bars, the Stillwater spa, health club, Jacuzzi, sauna, concierge, business center, free high-speed internet, 24 hour room service, laundry and dry-cleaning services. The Couples Sanctuary, featuring a whirlpool tub, fireplace, and side-by-side massage tables make the Park Hyatt the perfect romantic getaway. Address: 4 Avenue Rd Tel: (416) 925-1234 Website: www.parktoronto.hyatt.com

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SoHo Metropolitan Hotel

The SoHo Met is a glamorous boutique hotel perfect for business and pleasure. The guestrooms are gorgeously done up in soothing palettes and blond wood. Their aim is to please; drapes can be lowered electronically, another control lowers a privacy screen. The marble bathroom floor heats up at your say. Another control panel lets you specify your wish to be left alone or ask for housekeeping as you want. Other amenities provided are; the delectable restaurant-Senses, a bar, health club, concierge, business center, 24 hour room service, laundry service, dry cleaning and an in-room safe.

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The Metropolitan Hotel

The Metropolitan caters to business-oriented clients, offering a lot of of the same features and amenities as its competitors at a comparatively lower price. In addition they offer perks such as complimentary limo service to any downtown address and special packages to the Toronto Symphony Orchestra. Their rooms are generously proportioned with special emphasis on comfort and luxury in the form of Jacuzzis, Dolby Surround Sound televisions, CD players and two-line cordless phones in the executive suites. The Metropolitan also has 2 restaurants offering delicious Cantonese and continental cuisine; a bar, indoor pool, health club, sauna, concierge, 24 hour business center (with PCs and Macs), room service, massage, babysitting, laundry service and dry cleaning.

History and today in Toronto

Read the city today, its history, residents, culture, and character before planning your route.

Annual Temperature

Annual Temperature

a- January: 1. High -1 °C 2. Low - 8 °C; b- February: 1. High 0 °C 2. Low - 8 °C; c- March: 1. High 4 °C 2. Low - 3 °C

City Information

Exchange Rate

The currency used in Toronto is the Canadian Dollar (CAD)

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City Information

Fast Facts

Location:: Toronto is located on the north shore of Lake Ontario, Canada. Area: 630 square kilometres; Dialing code:: +1 Area Code: +416 / 647 / 905 Emergency Numbers: Fire: 911 Police: 911 Ambulance: 911; Population:: 2.48 million Approximately

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City Information

Public Holidays

- January 1:: New Year's Day; -Third Monday of February:: Family Day; -March/April:: Good Friday

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City Information

Visa Information

To visit Toronto, you must have at least a six month valid passport. Intended tourists must also be in good health and satisfy an immigration officer that they will leave Canada at the end of their visit, and that they have enough funds for the duration of their stay. The visa may be a single entry Visitor Visa- valid for 6 months only allowing you to visit Canada once. A Multiple Entry Canadian Visitor Visa allows you to enter and depart Canada on many occasions and is valid for up to 6 months. Temporary Resident Visas are also given, depending on your citizenship, a medical examination and a letter of invitation from a Canadian resident must be provided.

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City Information

When to go

The best time of the year to visit Toronto is between the months of June and September since there are numerous festivals and outdoor summer events taking place at this time. However, July can be hot with temperatures reaching 30 degrees. Early fall, on the other hand, (late September- early October), tends to have gorgeous weather, and the colors outside the city are incredible. Many of the hotels up in forest areas like Muskoka lower their prices to attract guests, so rooms can be cheap. The rest of the year is very cold with snow and low temperatures. Some attractions may be closed during these long winter months.

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City Information

Toronto’s Residents

There are over 2 million people residing in Toronto, making it the largest city in Canada. Toronto's population is cosmopolitan and international, depicting its importance as a destination for immigrants. Toronto is truly a global city, as about 49% of the population were born outside of Canada. Torontonians ethnicities are diverse; made up of Europeans, South-Asians, Chinese, African-Americans, Filipinios and even Aboriginals. Christianity is the most dominant religion here, followed by Judaism and Islam. While English is the main language, there are over 100 other languages spoken, thus the city’s 911 emergency services are equipped to respond in over 150 languages. Toronto has low crime rates and a clean, green environment. Torontians have high living standards, and a friendly attitude towards diversity, thus Toronto is consistently rated as one of the world's most livable cities.

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City Information

Toronto History

Toronto’s histoy dates back to 1615, when Etienne Brûlé arrived on a mission for a French explorer, who had already founded a settlement at Québec. This discovered land, became known as Toronto, a name that may have been derived from a Mohawk name for a sacred fallen tree.

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Shopping in Toronto

Explore 12 shopping stops, from malls, markets, and book bazaars to fashion streets and souvenir finds.

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Harry Rosen

Harry Rosen is a retail outlet for top menswear brands, including Hugo Boss, Brioni, and Versace. There is also a fine collection of Men’s footwear and a famed ‘Great Wall of Shirts’.

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French Country

The French owner fashions a Parisian ambience in this shop, which sells unique objects like painted lampshades, antique silver, framed prints, gourmet delicacies and hand-made soaps.

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Birks

This high quality jewelry store offers silver, crystal, china and a variety of superior jewelry, including exquisite pearls and sensational diamond rings. There is even a children's section full of treasures like Royal Doulton Bunnykins china and unusual picture frames. The display of antique estate jewelry is particularly striking.

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Indigo Books, Music & More

A brilliant collection of books, magazines, and videotapes are found here. There are tables and chairs for perusal, a cafe, and attentive staff. Especially appealing are the book readings, live performances, seminars and kids events that take place here daily.

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Pages Books and Magazines

This shop is famous for its books on the arts, cultural studies, and alternative lifestyles. There's also a huge section dedicated to little-known but deeply interesting books, and an enormous selection of magazines. Best of all, if a book has been banned elsewhere, it will definitely be found here.

Signature sights in Toronto

A curated pick of the city's standout sights, led by the strongest editorial recommendations.

Festivals and events in Toronto

Plan around 19 festival seasons, public events, Ramadan/Eid periods, book fairs, art cycles, and winter food activity.

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Winterlicious

This annual event is held at the end of January for duration of 2 weeks. Here numerous fine dining restaurants offer special fixed price menus, allowing visitors to sample their food at a reduced price. This event includes cooking demonstrations and other culinary events held at a variety of locations.

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WinterCity Festival

This event is held annually and offers free entertainment and tastes of a variety of cuisines at discounted prices. There are three stages of this 14-day festival - the WOW! Series, the Warm Up Series, and Winterlicious. The WinterCity festival offers something to please every taste.

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Canadian International Auto Show

This show, held every February, features official displays by the world’s top automobile manufacturers. Featured are, classic cars, rare cars and race cars of well known brands such as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, Jaguar, Rolls-Royce, Ford, BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

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St.Patrick’s Day Parade

Held annually on a Sunday in March, this procession includes pipe and drum bands, Irish dancers and music, floats and a ball.

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Canadian Music Week

During the Canadian Music Week, hundreds of artists play at 40 venues around the city over the course of four nights. This event also includes a film festival and other industry events.

Toronto tours and experiences

Heritage walks, food crawls, coastal trips, museum circuits, family days, and guided ideas for an easier day out.

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Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour

These bus tours operate daily, beginning at 10am, and go the city’s main attractions like the Eaton Centre, Casa Loma, the CN Tower and other major sights located in Yorkville, Chinatown and Harbourfront. The tour is over a period of 2 days and it costs C$ 32 for adults and C$ 17 for children. Address: 184 Front St. E Tel: 416/594-3310; Website: www.grayline.ca

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Escape Tours: Toronto Tours

This tour sums up everything Toronto has to offer. The first part of this tour includes visits to the downtown area; CN Tower, Skydome, Casa Loma, Harbourfront, Yorkville districts and more. The second part of the tour takes tourists to the beaches and stunning residential areas around Toronto.

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ShopDine Tour Toronto

These weekend tours begin at 10 am and end at 4 pm. They cover sightseeing, shopping and dining in Toronto, with a pick and drop service. This tour covers attractions in the noted neighbourhoods of Bloor-Yorkville, Entertainment District, Distillery Historic District, Chinatown and Downtown

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Art InSite

Expert art enthusiasts lead these art, design and architecture tours of Toronto, that vary from three hour tours-full day trips to the best studios and commercial art galleries. These tours involve special behind-the scenes meetings with artists as well as granting access to private and corporate collections. You can even custom design your own tour though this can become pricy.

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Sights on Bikes Incorporated

This is an awesome guided tour of the Downtown core of Toronto. Take in all of the best tourist attractions the city has to offer while traveling on bicyles. This tour lasts about 4 hours but is surprisingly not that tiring. Cycling through some of the most diverse parts of the heart of Toronto is exhilarating as is meeting other travelers from all over the world.

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Toronto travel guide sections

Focused sections for articles, directories, maps, and trip planning.