Welcome to Toronto! As Canada’s largest city and a bustling hub for newcomers, Toronto offers endless opportunities to thrive. This city guide is designed to help you navigate Toronto’s unique neighbourhoods, attractions, and essentials.
Whether you’re planning a visit or settling in, here’s everything you need to know about Toronto.
On This Page, You Will Find:
This Toronto city guide provides everything you need to know about moving to and living in Canada’s largest city. On this page, you will find:
- Why Choose Toronto? – Learn what makes Toronto a top destination for newcomers.
- Getting Around Toronto – Discover the best ways to navigate the city.
- Neighbourhoods to Explore – Find the best places to live or visit.
- Top Attractions – Must-see places across Toronto.
- Settling into Life in Toronto – Key steps for housing, healthcare, and education.
- Food and Dining – Explore the city’s diverse culinary scene.
- Weather and Seasonal Activities – Know what to expect throughout the year.
- Working in Toronto – Job industries, search tips, and networking.
- Events and Festivals – The city’s best annual events.
- Parks and Nature – Green spaces and outdoor activities.
- Tips for Newcomers – Practical advice for settling in smoothly.
Why Choose Toronto?
Toronto is known for its diversity, thriving economy, and vibrant culture. With over half of its residents born outside of Canada, this city is a welcoming home for newcomers. It offers world-class healthcare, excellent education, and abundant job opportunities in industries like technology, finance, and healthcare.
Getting Around Toronto
Toronto’s public transit system (TTC) is your best friend for navigating the city. Here’s how you can get around:
- Subway: The subway connects downtown Toronto with surrounding areas, making it fast and reliable.
- Streetcars and Buses: These cover areas the subway doesn’t reach. Pay with a Presto card for convenience.
- Walking and Biking: Downtown Toronto is pedestrian-friendly, and bike lanes make cycling safe and enjoyable.
- Ride-Share and Taxis: Apps like Uber and Lyft operate throughout the city.
Pro tip: Get a TTC Day Pass if you plan to take multiple rides in one day.
Neighbourhoods to Explore
Toronto is home to vibrant neighbourhoods, each with its unique charm. Here’s a breakdown of some top areas to visit or live in:
Downtown Core
Perfect for professionals and newcomers who want to be close to jobs and entertainment.
Highlights include:
- CN Tower
- Ripley’s Aquarium
- Scotiabank Arena for concerts and sports
Kensington Market
A bohemian neighbourhood known for its international foods, vintage shops, and artistic vibe.
Don’t miss the multicultural food tours!
Yorkville
If luxury is your style, Yorkville boasts high-end boutiques, galleries, and some of Toronto’s best dining.
The Beaches
Located near Lake Ontario, The Beaches offer a relaxed vibe with sandy shores, boardwalks, and water activities.
Scarborough
Ideal for families and nature lovers, Scarborough offers affordable housing and access to the Scarborough Bluffs and Toronto Zoo.
Etobicoke
This suburb offers spacious homes, quiet streets, and parks like High Park, the largest in Toronto.
Top Attractions
Toronto is packed with attractions that cater to all interests. Here are some must-sees:
CN Tower
Experience breathtaking views of the city from this iconic landmark. For the adventurous, try the EdgeWalk—a hands-free walk around the tower’s edge!
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)
Discover art, culture, and natural history exhibits at one of Canada’s most celebrated museums.
Toronto Islands
Take a short ferry ride to the Toronto Islands for beaches, bike paths, and stunning views of the skyline.
Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)
Explore over 90,000 works of art, from classic pieces to contemporary installations.
St. Lawrence Market
This historic market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and specialty foods. It’s a foodie’s paradise!
Settling into Life in Toronto
As a newcomer, you’ll want to get settled quickly. Here’s how you can do that:
Find Housing
Toronto’s housing market can be competitive, so start your search early. Popular websites include:
Enrol in Healthcare
Ontario residents qualify for OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan). Apply as soon as you arrive to access free healthcare services.
Explore Education Options
Toronto has excellent schools, colleges, and universities. If you have children, research public schools based on your neighbourhood.
Food and Dining
Toronto’s food scene is a reflection of its diversity. You can savour cuisines from all over the world without leaving the city. Popular spots include:
- Chinatown: Authentic dim sum and bubble tea
- Little Italy: Homemade pasta and gelato
- Greektown: Souvlaki and baklava
- Little India: Flavourful curries and samosas
- Korean Town: KBBQ and Korean fried chicken
For fine dining, explore award-winning restaurants like Alo and Canoe. If you’re on a budget, don’t miss food trucks and cheap eats like poutine and peameal bacon sandwiches.
Weather and Seasonal Activities
Toronto experiences all four seasons, so plan accordingly:
- Winter (December to February): Bundle up for snow, skating at Nathan Phillips Square, and Winterlicious food festivals.
- Spring (March to May): Enjoy cherry blossoms at High Park and outdoor patio dining.
- Summer (June to August): Attend festivals like Caribana, visit beaches, and enjoy outdoor concerts.
- Autumn (September to November): Take in the vibrant autumn foliage at Don Valley Trails and the Evergreen Brick Works.
Working in Toronto
Toronto is a job-seeker’s haven with opportunities in various fields:
Top Industries
- Technology: Companies like Shopify and Google have offices here.
- Finance: Toronto is home to Canada’s largest banks.
- Film and Television: Known as “Hollywood North,” the city hosts many productions.
Job Search Tips
- Use job boards like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor.
- Network through events and professional groups.
- Research government programmes for newcomers to help build your CV and skills.
Toronto’s Events and Festivals
Toronto comes alive with events and festivals throughout the year. Don’t miss:
- Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF): A star-studded event in September.
- Caribana Festival: A celebration of Caribbean culture and music in the summer.
- Canadian National Exhibition (CNE): A fun-filled event with rides, food, and shows.
Parks and Nature
Despite its urban setting, Toronto offers plenty of green spaces:
- High Park: Perfect for picnics, hiking, and family outings.
- Evergreen Brick Works: Explore trails and a weekend farmer’s market.
- Don Valley Trails: Ideal for biking and jogging.
Tips for Newcomers
- Embrace multiculturalism.
- Dress for the weather.
- Stay active and join community groups.
- Explore beyond downtown.
- Connect with newcomer services.
Toronto is a dynamic city filled with opportunities, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re visiting or starting a new chapter here, this guide provides the essentials to help you navigate and thrive. Dive into Toronto’s vibrant neighbourhoods, connect with its welcoming communities, and embrace the city’s endless possibilities.
FAQ: Navigating Life in Toronto
What is the cost of living in Toronto in 2025?
Toronto’s cost of living remains high, with downtown rent averaging $2,700 for a one-bedroom and $2,200 in the suburbs. Utilities and groceries add to expenses, so budgeting is crucial. A TTC monthly pass costs $156, and dining out can be expensive, but affordable food options exist. Consider living outside the downtown core for more savings, and look for deals on public transport, shopping, and entertainment to manage costs efficiently.
How do I find housing in Toronto?
Start searching on websites like Rentals.ca, PadMapper, and Kijiji. Downtown offers convenience but is costly, while areas like Scarborough and Etobicoke provide affordability. Always visit properties before signing a lease and review the rental agreement carefully. Many landlords require first and last month’s rent upfront. Temporary stays in Airbnb or hostels can help while you look for a long-term home. Be prepared for competitive demand, especially in summer months.
What are the best neighborhoods for newcomers?
Toronto has a neighbourhood for every lifestyle. Downtown Toronto is ideal for professionals, while Scarborough and Etobicoke are great for families seeking affordability and green spaces. Kensington Market and The Annex attract students and creatives, while The Beaches offer a relaxed lifestyle near the lake. Research commute times, safety, and amenities before deciding. With Toronto’s diverse communities, newcomers can find welcoming neighbourhoods in every part of the city.
How do I get around Toronto?
Toronto’s TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) operates subways, buses, and streetcars. A Presto card makes fare payments easier, and a monthly pass is ideal for regular travellers. Walking and cycling are great for short distances, especially downtown, with expanding bike lanes. Uber and Lyft operate citywide. GO Transit and VIA Rail connect to nearby cities. Toronto Pearson Airport offers public transit links, making international travel accessible for newcomers.
What resources are available for newcomers?
Toronto offers excellent newcomer support. COSTI, YMCA, and Access Alliance provide job placement, settlement services, and language classes. The Toronto Newcomer Office helps with healthcare, education, and housing advice. Public libraries offer free resources, from job search workshops to community events. Many cultural organisations and community groups also assist with networking and integration, making it easier for newcomers to adapt and build a new life in Canada.
