With dozens of restaurants, art galleries, skyscrapers, high-rise buildings and shopping malls, Toronto is an outstanding city for travellers. Toronto is recognised as a perfect tourist location for shooting of famous Hollywood movies and has been featured in many films as Chicago and Manhattan. Toronto International Film Festival indeed is one of the biggest events in Canada, in the month of September.
To experience diversity of cultures, a trip to Toronto, Canada is a must to do! This city is a popular destination for immigrants and in fact, nearly half of its population was born outside of Canada. Toronto is also famous for all types of cuisines and Poutine (French Fries with Cheese and Gravy…delicious!) is the famous local dish relished by Torontonians. Tourists can enjoy Poutine across all fast food outlets such as KFC, McDonalds and more.
Toronto, by far, is one of the best cities I have visited and it’s perfect for a stay of 7-8 days!
Some famous places to see and things to do in Toronto which you should explore are:
CN Tower is one of the tallest and most visited tourist attractions in Toronto downtown; to enjoy outstanding views of the city. For seeking adventure, tourists can explore edge walk
outside rooftop of the CN Tower. And to combine spectacular view with delicious food, you can enjoy meals at 360 Restaurant. Plus, if you take a combo pass at the entrance, Ripley’s Aquarium (right next to the CN Tower base) can also be visited and this will be a super saver deal!
Ripley’s Aquarium is operated by Ripley Entertainment and is located in Toronto Downtown (located next to the CN Tower base). Discover marine life and underwater fun amidst 16000 sea animals, at one of the largest aquariums in Canada.
Enjoy Sharks sleeping overhead and swimming besides you. You can also touch and feel some of the marine species (including Sharks!). Cleaner Shrimps were my favourite! Do take home some cute Shark and Pufferfish souvenirs from the gift shop.
Casa Loma is one of the oldest castles in Midtown Toronto.
This was constructed as residence for financier Sir Henry Mill Pellatt and his wife, in 1911. Casa Loma today is among the top tourist’s attractions and famous for its vintage architecture and gothic style of housing. It can also be booked for shooting of movies, hosting private events and weddings. Some facts state that there is 5 years of waiting time if a couple decides to get married at Casa Loma. Cupids might just rush and book now!
Blue Mountain village is located in Ontario’s mountain resort, Blue Mountain. The village offers lively social scene along with unique dining and shopping experiences.
Travelers can also enjoy exciting outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, skiing, gondola rides, climbing, spa and more.
With retail shops, cafes, restaurants and hotels, the Blue Mountain Village is a thrilling tourist attraction. A one-day return trip to Blue Mountain Village will be close to 6-8 hours by car, from downtown Toronto.
Yonge – Dundas Square
Widely known as the Time Square of Toronto (smaller version though) and located in the heart of Toronto, Dundas Square is one of the busiest junctions surrounded with eating points, shopping centres, movie theatres and evening lounges.
Yonge-Dundas Square is situated at the intersection of Yonge street and Dundas street in the downtown and hosts a lot of events, movies and community shows, for almost free! On the last day of my trip, I enjoyed shopping of brands like Victoria Secret, Lush, Aldo, Mac, H&M, Zara and more, at The Toronto Eaton Centre located on Dundas Square.
St. Lawrence Market, located in Old Toronto, has been voted as one the best food markets in the world, by National Geographic. There are more than 120 retailers at the St. Lawrence Market, showcasing and selling local products such as cheese, breads, bagels, seafood, raw meat, coffee, honey and much more. My best buy was a small bottle of organic honey and I relished the local taste (plus good for my skin too :))!
To experience one of the world’s largest water falls, one must visit Niagara City!
Travellers can enjoy the full force view of Niagara Falls by either chopper ride or boat tour. I preferred the boat ride since it was fairly reasonable on my budget and took me very close to the falls (Warning: You will get all drenched, so please be super cautious of your electronic gadgets, mobile phones and other personal belongings)..
Niagara city, indeed, is one of the most visited places in world and is always packed with tourists all year round.
The Harbour front Centre and Toronto Islands
Harbour Front Centre located on Toronto’s water front is a must visit place to enjoy a lovely view of the Lake Ontario and to visit Toronto Islands. You can book a water taxi from Habour Front to reach Islands and take amazing pictures of Toronto city. You can enjoy free movies, food festivals and clubbing at the centre. My suggestion – Do visit Amsterdam BrewHouse for evening drinks!
Touristy Tips:
Stay tuned for more exciting travel stories! Happy Traveling! 
Cheers,
Neha Rai
