Downtown Toronto is more than just the city’s business hub — it’s where modern life, history, culture, and entertainment all meet. As the busiest area in the city, it offers something for everyone, whether we enjoy architecture, museums, shopping, or food.

From the famous CN Tower to charming neighborhoods like Kensington Market, every corner is packed with stories and surprises.

Must-Visit Attractions & Tickets Info

Here are the top spots we should not miss:

CN Tower:

- Ticket Price: General admission starts at $43 CAD (around $32 USD); SkyPod access extra.

- Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM.

- Tip: Visit at sunset for stunning skyline views.

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada:

- Ticket Price: Around $44 CAD (approx. $33 USD) for adults.

- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily.

- Tip: Book online to skip the lines.

Royal Ontario Museum (ROM):

- Ticket Price: $26 CAD (~$19 USD) for adults.

- Opening Hours: Tues–Sun, 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM.

- Tip: Free admission on the third Monday of every month from 5:30 PM.

Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO):

- Ticket Price: $30 CAD (~$22 USD), free Wednesday evenings (6–9 PM).

- Opening Hours: Tues–Sun, 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM (till 9:00 PM on Wed/Fri).

St. Lawrence Market:

- Admission: Free!

- Opening Hours: Tues–Fri 9:00 AM–5:00 PM, Sat 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.

- Tip: Go early on Saturday for the freshest local produce and baked goods.

How to Get Around Downtown

We don’t need a car to enjoy downtown — in fact, we’re better off without one. Here are the easiest ways to get around:

- Subway: Line 1 (Yonge-University) and Line 2 (Bloor-Danforth) run through key downtown stops like Union Station, St. George, and Bloor-Yonge

- Streetcars: Route 504 and 501 pass many attractions. Great for a scenic ride!

- UP Express: From Pearson Airport to Union Station in 25 minutes, costing $12.35 CAD (~$9 USD) one-way

- Walking & Cycling: The area is very pedestrian- and bike-friendly. Bike Share Toronto stations are everywhere

Best Time to Visit Downtown Toronto

- Spring (April–June) and Fall (Sept–Oct) are ideal for comfortable weather and fewer crowds

- Summer (July–August) is full of festivals but can be hot and busy

- Winter (Dec–Feb) turns downtown into a wonderland, especially around Nathan Phillips Square where we can enjoy skating under festive lights

Recommended Itinerary (1–2 Days)

Day 1:

- Morning: CN Tower and Ripley’s Aquarium

- Lunch: Grab something local at St. Lawrence Market. A good option is Mustafa’s Famous Pies (North Market, Upper Level), with its Spinach & Feta Pie – Flaky phyllo pastry stuffed with spinach, feta, and herbs. Price: ~$7.50–$9.00 CAD (~$5.50–6.60 USD)

- Afternoon: Visit the Bata Shoe Museum (Yes, Really!). A quirky museum showcasing 4,500 years of footwear, from ancient Egyptian sandals to Elton John’s platforms. Price: $14.00 CAD (~$10 USD)

- Evening: Watch a show at Princess of Wales Theatre. Ticket prices vary by show, but typically $60–$150 CAD (~$44–110 USD)

Day 2:

- Morning: Visit the Royal Ontario Museum

- Lunch: Try Korean BBQ (~$25–40 CAD (~$18–29 USD) per person) or ramen (~$14–18 CAD (~$10–13 USD) per bowl) in Koreatown

- Afternoon: Art Gallery of Ontario + Kensington Market walk

- Evening: Relax by Harbourfront Centre or take a ferry to Toronto Islands (if in season). Round-Trip Ticket for a ferry: $9.11 CAD (~$6.65 USD)

Budget & Dining Tips

- Average Daily Spend: Around $110–206 CAD ( $80–$150 USD), depending on meals and attraction choices

- Affordable Eats: Try “7 West Café” (open 24/7, avg. meal: ~$12–18 CAD (~$9–13 USD), try: all-day breakfast or pasta)

- Mid-range options: “Kōjin” for Canadian food (avg. main: ~$25–40 CAD (~$18–29 USD), try: cornbread with maple butter)

Useful Tips Before You Go

- Bring a Presto Card: For public transport savings

- Weekdays = Less Crowded: Museums and attractions are quieter

- Check Local Events: There are often free concerts, markets, and festivals in Yonge-Dundas Square or Nathan Phillips Square

- Layer Your Clothes: Weather can shift fast, even in summer

Let’s Share Our Toronto Moments!

Downtown Toronto invites us to slow down, look up, and soak in its unique energy. From the thrill of standing atop the CN Tower to the simple joy of strolling through Kensington Market, every moment here can become a lasting memory. Lykkers, have you walked these vibrant streets, snapped photos by the lake, or discovered a hidden gem in the city? We’d love to hear what inspired you — or what you're most looking forward to on your visit. Let’s share and explore together!

Toronto Travel Guide | What to See and Do in "The Six"

Video by See You Leda