Greater Toronto Area Travel Guide
Explore the cultural landmarks, natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, best things to do, and more with this comprehensive travel guide for the Greater Toronto Area.
- Introduction to Greater Toronto Area
- List of Places to Visit in Greater Toronto Area
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Greater Toronto Area
- Best Things to Do in Greater Toronto Area: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Greater Toronto Area
- Food and Drink Scene of Greater Toronto Area
- Where to Stay in Greater Toronto Area: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Greater Toronto Area: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Greater Toronto Area
- Best Time to Visit Greater Toronto Area
- Do’s and Don’ts of Greater Toronto Area
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Greater Toronto Area: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Greater Toronto Area
- Where to Go Next from Greater Toronto Area: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Greater Toronto Area
The Greater Toronto Area, commonly referred to as the GTA, is located in Southern Ontario, Canada, and is composed of Toronto, as well as surrounding municipalities such as Brampton, Mississauga, and Oakville. The region is known for its diverse cultures, vibrant food and drink scene, and abundance of natural and cultural landmarks. With so much to see and do, the GTA is a must-see destination for any traveler to Canada.
List of Places to Visit in Greater Toronto Area
The GTA is home to a wide variety of attractions that cater to all kinds of interests. Here are some must-visit places:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Toronto is home to many museums and historical places that showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage. Some highlights include:
- Royal Ontario Museum: With over 13 million artifacts, the ROM is one of Canada’s largest museums and features exhibits spanning from the origins of life to contemporary art.
- Casa Loma: This Gothic Revival-style castle is a popular tourist destination, offering tours that take visitors through secret passageways, tunnels, and towers.
- St. Lawrence Market: This market is the perfect spot to sample some of Toronto’s finest foods from around the world. It also houses a variety of artisans, antique dealers, and flea vendors.
Natural Attractions of Greater Toronto Area: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
The GTA is home to some incredible natural landmarks that are great for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Here are some of the best:
- Niagara Falls: Located just a short drive from Toronto, the mighty Niagara Falls is a must-visit attraction offering stunning views of the world-renowned waterfalls.
- Toronto Islands: A quick ferry ride from downtown Toronto, the Toronto Islands are home to several parks and beaches and offer incredible views of the city skyline.
- Algonquin Provincial Park: Located about three hours north of Toronto, Algonquin Provincial Park offers some of the best opportunities for hiking, biking, and camping in the province.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Greater Toronto Area
If you love outdoor activities, the GTA is the perfect destination. Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails:
- Bruce Trail: This trail is Canada’s oldest and longest footpath, covering over 900 kilometers of wild and beautiful landscapes.
- Don Valley Trail: This trail runs along the Don River, starting at Lake Ontario and extending north of the GTA. It’s a great spot for hiking, biking, and bird watching.
- Waterfront Trail: This trail runs along Lake Ontario and offers some stunning views of the Toronto skyline. It’s perfect for a leisurely bike ride or walk.
Best Things to Do in Greater Toronto Area: Activities and Tours
The GTA offers endless opportunities for fun and entertainment. Here are some of the best things to do:
- CN Tower: A visit to the top of the CN Tower is a must-do to see the incredible views of the city and Lake Ontario.
- Toronto Zoo: This world-renowned zoo features over 5,000 animals from over 450 species, making it one of the largest in the world.
- Toronto International Film Festival: This annual event is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. It takes place in September each year and brings in guests and filmmakers from around the world.
Week-Long Itinerary for Greater Toronto Area
If you’re planning a trip to the GTA, here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the Royal Ontario Museum, Casa Loma, and explore the St. Lawrence Market |
| 2 | Take a ferry to the Toronto Islands, enjoy a picnic lunch, then head to the beaches |
| 3 | Day trip to Niagara Falls, explore the falls and surrounding attractions |
| 4 | Hike or bike at Algonquin Provincial Park, stay overnight in a cabin or campground |
| 5 | Visit the CN Tower, the Ripley’s Aquarium, and enjoy dinner at one of Toronto’s top restaurants |
| 6 | Take a day trip to Stratford to see a performance at the legendary Stratford Festival or explore local wineries |
| 7 | Explore the Don Valley Trail and visit the Toronto Zoo // |
Food and Drink Scene of Greater Toronto Area
The GTA has a diverse and vibrant food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Poutine: A Canadian classic dish consisting of French fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
- Peameal bacon sandwich: A Toronto specialty consisting of peameal bacon served on a soft roll with mustard.
- Butter tart: A small, sweet pastry shell featuring a buttery and sugary filling, often with raisins, pecans, or chocolate chips.
Local Beverages
- Ice wine: A sweet wine produced from grapes that were frozen while still on the vine.
- Canadian beer: Canadian beer is known for its high quality and unique flavor. Molson Canadian and Labatt Blue are two popular options.
- Caesar cocktail: The national cocktail of Canada, the Caesar is a spicy, tomato-based drink that is unique to the country.
Where to Stay in Greater Toronto Area: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
The GTA offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit any budget. Here are some top options:
- The Ritz-Carlton: Located in downtown Toronto, this luxury hotel offers unparalleled service, amenities, and views of the city.
- HI Toronto Hostel: This affordable, centrally-located hostel is perfect for budget travelers and offers both private and dormitory-style rooms.
- The Drake Hotel: This boutique hotel is a popular destination for art and culture enthusiasts. It features unique rooms, event space, and an on-site restaurant.
What to Buy in Greater Toronto Area: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
The GTA offers plenty of unique and authentic souvenirs and products to take home. Here are some top picks:
- Maple syrup: A Canadian specialty, maple syrup is a delicious and authentic souvenir.
- Ice wine: A sweet and unique local wine that makes a great gift.
- Canadian whiskey: Canada is home to some of the best whiskey in the world, including brands like Crown Royal and Canadian Club.
Local Culture and Customs of Greater Toronto Area
The GTA is a multicultural metropolis, with residents from all over the world. English and French are the official languages, but many other languages are widely spoken. It’s important to be respectful of different cultures and customs when visiting the area.
Best Time to Visit Greater Toronto Area
The best time to visit the GTA is from April to October, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of events and festivals happening. However, if you’re a winter sports enthusiast, winter can be a great time to visit.
Do’s and Don’ts of Greater Toronto Area
Do:
- Try poutine and other Canadian specialties.
- Visit Niagara Falls and the Toronto Islands.
- Explore the natural and cultural landmarks of the region.
Don’t:
- Be disrespectful of different cultures and customs.
- Underestimate the scale of the GTA - it’s a big area with lots of places to explore.
- Forget to tip in restaurants - it’s customary to tip between 15-20%.
Safety and Health
Safety in Greater Toronto Area
The GTA is generally a safe place to visit, with low crime rates. However, like any big city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety. Avoiding carrying large sums of cash or valuables in plain sight, and stay in well-lit areas at night.
Health in Greater Toronto Area
The GTA has excellent healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics, which are available to both residents and visitors. Travel insurance is always recommended for international travelers.
Getting to Greater Toronto Area: Transportation Options and Logistics
The GTA is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options, including:
Airports Near Greater Toronto Area
- Toronto Pearson International Airport: The largest and busiest airport in Canada, located in Mississauga, the airport offers flights to destinations worldwide.
- Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport: Located on Toronto Island, this airport is a smaller alternative to Pearson and offers flights to regional destinations.
Bus Stations Near Greater Toronto Area
- Toronto Coach Terminal: Located in downtown Toronto, the terminal offers bus service to destinations across Canada and the United States.
- Union Station Bus Terminal: Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, the terminal offers service to nearby and regional destinations.
Other Options
- VIA Rail Canada: Offers train service across Canada, with several stops in the GTA.
- Car rental: There are many car rental companies available in the GTA, making it easy to rent a car and explore the region at your own pace.
How to Get Around in Greater Toronto Area
The GTA has an extensive public transit system, including streetcars, buses, and subways, making it easy to navigate the area. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber are also readily available.
Where to Go Next from Greater Toronto Area: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
The GTA is located in a great spot to explore other parts of Ontario and Canada. Some popular nearby destinations include:
- Ottawa: Canada’s capital city, known for its historic architecture and Parliament Hill.
- Montreal: Home to a unique blend of French and Canadian culture, with incredible food, nightlife, and festivals.
- Algonquin Provincial Park: A true natural wonderland of pristine lakes, forests, and wildlife, just a few hours’ drive from the GTA.
Conclusion
The Greater Toronto Area is a diverse and fascinating destination that offers something for everyone. From natural wonders to cultural landmarks, incredible food to world-class entertainment, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Start planning your trip today!
Greater Toronto Area Image Gallery
The suburban areas around Toronto have grown quickly in the last few decades. Mississauga's city hall was surrounded by fields when it opened in 1987. It is now dwarfed by modern high rises.
Union Station in Toronto is the major transit hub for the GTA, connecting the services of GO Transit, the TTC and Via Rail
'''Parkwood Estate Gardens''' provide a nice spot to relax and explore the region's history in Oshawa.
Rouge National Urban Park includes parts of Markham, Pickering, Toronto, and Uxbridge.
New neighbourhoods around the GTA grew around old downtowns and main streets. Many still have a heritage village feel, but restaurants and markets cater to today's tastes.