Toronto

Welcome to Toronto, Canada!

A short history of Toronto

Toronto, the capital city of the province of Ontario, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Huron-Wendat, Haudenosaunee, and Anishinaabe nations. European settlement began in the late 18th century when the French established a trading post. In 1793, the British took control of the area and named it York. It was later renamed Toronto in 1834.

FAQ for Toronto

What is the best way to get there?

• By air: Toronto Pearson International Airport is the main gateway to the city.
• By train: VIA Rail and Amtrak provide train services to Toronto.
• By car: Toronto is easily accessible by major highways.

What is Toronto famous for?

• The CN Tower, one of the tallest freestanding structures in the world.
• The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), a major event in the film industry.
• The Royal Ontario Museum, showcasing art, culture, and natural history.
• The Hockey Hall of Fame, celebrating Canada's national sport.
• The diverse culinary scene, offering a wide range of international cuisines.

What are five interesting facts about Toronto?

• Toronto is the fourth-largest city in North America.
• It is known as the "Hollywood of the North" due to its thriving film industry.
• The city is home to over 140 languages spoken by its residents.
• Toronto has the largest underground shopping complex in the world, known as PATH.
• The Toronto Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world, housing over 5,000 animals.

How did Toronto get its name?

Toronto got its name from the Indigenous word "tkaronto," which means "where there are trees standing in the water." This refers to the fishing weirs constructed by Indigenous peoples in Lake Simcoe, which were used to catch fish.

What are some travel tips for Toronto?

• Carry an umbrella or raincoat, as the weather can be unpredictable.
• Use public transportation, such as the TTC subway and streetcars, to navigate the city.
• Try local specialties like peameal bacon sandwiches and butter tarts.
• Be mindful of rush hour traffic if driving in the city.
• Explore the neighborhoods beyond downtown to experience the city's diversity.

Do I need a visa?

Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. It is recommended to check with the Canadian embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information.

When is the best time to visit Toronto?

The best time to visit Toronto is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and there are various festivals and events taking place.

Are there local customs I should know for i.e. Drinking, Greetings, Public transit?

When greeting someone, a handshake is the most common form of greeting. In terms of drinking, the legal drinking age in Toronto is 19 years old. As for public transit, it is customary to give up your seat to elderly or disabled individuals.

What is the time zone for Toronto?

Toronto operates on Eastern Standard Time (EST) during the non-daylight saving period and Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) during daylight saving time.

What are the voltage/plug types?

Toronto uses 120V electricity, and the plug types commonly used are Type A and Type B, which have two flat pins or two flat pins with a grounding pin, respectively.

What is the currency?

The currency used in Toronto is the Canadian Dollar (CAD).

Are ATMs readily accessible?

ATMs are readily accessible throughout the city, and major credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Toronto?

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Toronto, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.

Can you use ApplePay and Google Pay?

Yes, ApplePay and Google Pay are accepted in many establishments in Toronto.

How much do I tip in Restaurants/bars, Hotels, Taxis, Tour guides, etc.?

Tipping customs in Toronto are similar to other North American cities. It is customary to tip around 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants/bars. For hotels, it is common to tip hotel staff, such as bellhops and housekeeping, a few dollars per service. Taxis and tour guides are typically tipped around 10-15% of the fare or tour cost.

Accommodation in Toronto

City Information for Toronto

Founded	Population	Elevation
1793	2.93 million	76 meters (249 feet)

Average temperatures for Toronto

Season/Month	Temperature (Celsius)	Temperature (Fahrenheit)
Spring (March - May)	5°C - 15°C	41°F - 59°F
Summer (June - August)	20°C - 30°C	68°F - 86°F
Fall (September - November)	10°C - 20°C	50°F - 68°F
Winter (December - February)	-5°C - 0°C	23°F - 32°F