Toronto in Your Pocket
Embark on a whirlwind journey through the vibrant streets of Toronto, immersing yourself in the festive December atmosphere. Whether you’re captivated by art, drawn to culinary delights, or seeking winter wonderlands, this is the place to be!
We have gathered some interesting information for you in case you lack time but still want to get a taste of the city.
*An extra budget-friendly tip for you – do yourself a favour and get the free mobile pass Pass TO Savings. By downloading it, you can enjoy up to 20% off the city’s attractions, tours, experiences and more while exploring Toronto.
Don’t forget you can also benefit from a special discount from UP Express! Just visit UPexpress.com before December 10, 2023 and use promo code FRPT23 to get your 25% discount on adult return tickets (round-trip) from Pearson Station to Union Station (regular price $24.70* CAD). Tickets are valid for 1 year. More details on how to purchase your ticket are available here.
Here is a summary of the places you can see if you only have 48 hours in captivating Toronto.
Day 1: Embrace the Holiday Spirit
Morning:
Nathan Phillips Square:
Begin your day with a festive stroll at Nathan Phillips Square. Accessible by public transit, take the subway or streetcar to reach this iconic location.
St. Lawrence Market:
Dive into the festive spirit with holiday treats. Public transit or walking are convenient options to reach St. Lawrence Market.
Afternoon:
Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO):
Take the subway to AGO and explore the art collection. Public transportation is the easiest way to navigate the city.
Distillery District:
Utilize public transit or walking to reach the Distillery District. The area is pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the festive atmosphere without the need for a vehicle.
Evening:
Harbourfront:
Use public transit to reach Harbourfront and experience the Winter Village at Ontario Place. Public transit options make it easy to navigate Toronto’s waterfront.
Day 2: Winter Wonderland and City Views
Morning:
High Park:
Use public transit to reach High Park and enjoy the winter atmosphere. Walking paths and transit options within the park make it accessible.
Kensington Market:
Accessible by public transit, Kensington Market is a great spot for brunch. Explore the area on foot to fully appreciate its unique charm.
Afternoon:
CN Tower:
Navigate the city using public transit to reach the CN Tower. Enjoy winter views without the need for a vehicle.
Queen Street West:
Use public transit or walk to Queen Street West to explore the boutiques and holiday displays.
Evening:
Trinity Bellwoods Park:
Public transit or walking can take you to Trinity Bellwoods Park. Enjoy the winter evening in the park without the hassle of parking.
Here are some local gems and useful tips for you to make your stay in Toronto smooth and even more enjoyable:
Cavalcade of Lights: Experience the enchantment of the holiday season at Toronto’s annual Cavalcade of Lights, where the city comes alive with “bright lights, big city” vibes. This family-friendly celebration at Nathan Phillips Square marks the official start to Toronto’s festive season, showcasing the illumination of a magnificent 15-meter (50-foot) Christmas tree, live musical performances, ice skating, and more.
Stackt Holiday Market: Immerse yourself in a distinctive holiday adventure at stackt, the largest shipping container market in North America. Crafted entirely from recycled shipping containers, this downtown market has become a beloved local hotspot renowned for its one-of-a-kind shops, diverse dining options, and microbrewery. Step into the holiday spirit by exploring Holiday Hills, a festive addition featuring vendor markets, engaging games, Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, and live music.
The Distillery Winter Village: Wander through cobblestone streets adorned with wooden kiosks, offering an array of handmade treasures from over 65 local artisans located in this picturesque holiday addition to the Distillery Historic District. The ambiance is set with music, twinkling string lights, a majestic 15-meter (50-foot) Christmas tree, carollers, buskers, and even a wandering Santa with his elves, creating a whimsical, storybook-like atmosphere.
For more information on exciting things to do in the city visit https://www.destinationtoronto.com/
The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) offers convenient and easily navigable subways, buses, and streetcars, making city transportation a breeze. For inter-regional travel, GO Transit serves as Ontario’s comprehensive bus and train service, connecting Toronto to surrounding regions and beyond. GO Trains and buses depart regularly from Union Station, providing efficient transportation throughout the day.
Walking and Biking: Explore Toronto’s walkable neighborhoods and consider renting a bike for short distances.
Taxi & Car Sharing Services:
There are a number of different taxi companies in Toronto, including Co-Op Cabs. Ride sharing services Uber and Lyft are available in the city too. Taxi fares are standard, metered and non-negotiable
St. Lawrence Market: Exploring the sandwiches at this popular destination isn’t just a delightful way to satisfy your hunger; it’s a journey through diverse cultures. Conveniently housed under one expansive roof, it offers a chance to savor a selection of Toronto’s signature sandwiches.
Riverside: This neighborhood hosts some of the city’s finest brunch spots within its charming confines. Venture eastward, and get ready to make repeat visits to explore its culinary offerings.
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