Toronto Travel Guide

Toronto is more than just Canada’s biggest city—it’s been my home for 20 years. After living in places like Japan and South Korea, and spending 14 months in Saskatoon, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the unique rhythm of this city. 

I’ve explored Toronto not just as a resident, but as an Amateur Photographer. I’ve spent countless hours walking these streets, waiting for the perfect light to hit the skyline or catching the grit and soul of our diverse neighborhoods. This isn’t a guide based on a weekend visit; it’s based on two decades of life, thousands of photos, and a lot of miles covered.

The City of “Micro-Worlds”

What I’ve learned over the last 20 years is that Toronto isn’t one giant monolith. It’s a collection of “micro-worlds.”

• The Distillery District: I remember when these cobblestone streets felt like a hidden secret. Now, they are a must-visit. My Tip: If you’re a photographer, go on a Tuesday morning. The red-brick geometry is stunning when the crowds aren’t blocking your frame.

• Kensington Market: This is where Toronto’s real heart beats. It’s quirky, loud, and smells like a mix of spices and vintage clothes. It’s my favorite place to practice street photography because there is a story behind every mural.

• The Waterfront: When the “big city” feel gets too heavy, I head to the lake. Whether I’m catching the ferry to the Islands or just walking the boardwalk, the breeze off Lake Ontario is the best reset button.

Moving Beyond the Surface

Having traveled across Canada—including several long-haul trips between Toronto and Saskatoon via car, Via Rail, and even the bus—I’ve seen how Toronto compares to the rest of this vast country. It’s fast-paced, sure, but it’s also remarkably accessible if you know the local hacks.

You don’t need to over-plan your trip here. My best days in the city usually start with a simple subway ride and an empty camera card. You might start with dim sum in Chinatown and end up watching a live band in a basement bar in Little Italy.

My Personal Recommendations

I’ve put together these guides to help you navigate the city like someone who actually lives here. No generic “top 10” lists—just honest insights from my personal archives:

• Best Places to Stay: Why your choice of neighborhood can make or break your trip.

• St. Lawrence Market: A local’s take on the best time to grab a peameal bacon sandwich (and why you should skip the Saturday rush).

• CN Tower & Ripley’s Aquarium: How to see the icons without getting stuck in the longest lines.

• Casa Loma: My perspective as an author on one of Canada’s most interesting historic sites.

• Toronto Island: Tips for the perfect day trip (and where to get the best skyline shot).

Local Logistics: Navigating Toronto Without the Stress

Toronto is a “walking city,” but its size can be deceptive. After 20 years of navigating these streets with camera gear in tow, here is my honest breakdown of how to get around efficiently.

The TTC (Subway, Streetcars, and Buses)

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) is the city’s pulse.

• The Presto Card is Essential: Don’t faff around with tokens or exact change. Buy a Presto card at any station or use “Tap to Pay” with your credit card or phone. It includes a two-hour transfer window, meaning you can hop on and off as much as you want within two hours for a single fare.

• The Streetcar “Vibe”: As an amateur photographer, I love the red streetcars—they are iconic and great for “moving shots” of the city. However, they are prone to traffic. If you’re in a rush, the Subway (Lines 1 and 2) is always your fastest bet.

• Pro Tip: Download the “Transit” app. It’s much more accurate for real-time streetcar locations than Google Maps.

The PATH: Our Underground Secret

If you’re visiting during the winter or a rainy spring day, look for the PATH signs. It’s a 30-kilometre underground pedestrian walkway connecting downtown office towers, subway stations, and shopping.

• Local Warning: I’ve lived here for two decades and I still occasionally get lost in the PATH. It’s a maze, but it’s the warmest way to get from Union Station to the Eaton Centre without ever seeing a snowflake.

Getting from Pearson Airport (YYZ)

Forget the $70 Uber or the slow bus. Take the UP Express (Union Pearson Express).

• It leaves every 15 minutes and gets you from the airport to downtown Union Station in just 25 minutes.

• Photographer’s Tip: Try to snag a window seat on the right side when heading downtown for a great first glimpse of the CN Tower as you approach the city.

To Drive or Not to Drive?

Having driven cross-country between Toronto and Saskatoon several times, I can tell you: Toronto traffic is a different beast. * Unless you are planning a day trip to Niagara Falls or the Bruce Peninsula, don’t rent a car for the city. 

* Parking is expensive and hard to find. If you do drive, download the Green P app—it’s the official city parking app and allows you to pay (and top up your meter) from your phone so you don’t have to run back to your car.

Bike Share Toronto

If it’s a nice day, use the “green bikes” found at stations all over the city.

• The Waterfront Trail is flat, paved, and perfect for a casual ride. It’s my favorite way to scout for new sunset locations along the lake.