Toronto Ontario, Canada Travel Guide
Canada has three major mobile networks: Bell, Rogers, and Telus. Sub-brands like Fido, Koodo, and Virgin Plus often provide economical plans. Freedom Mobile covers urban areas.
Wi-Fi is widely available and often free in hotels, cafes, restaurants, shopping malls, and Toronto Public Library branches.
English is the main language in Toronto. While Canada has two official languages (English plus French), French is not commonly used in Toronto's daily life.
Canada Post is the national postal service. Post offices are throughout the city, marked by their red and white logo.
Prepaid SIM cards or eSIM are practical choices for travelers. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in many public spaces.
Smaller boutiques operate from 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Larger stores and malls often stay open until 9:00 PM. Sundays typically 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
Most grocery stores open around 7:00 AM and close late (10:00 PM or 11:00 PM) daily. Some operate 24 hours.
Typically 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday-Friday. Some branches open on Saturday mornings. ATMs are widely available.
Breakfast/lunch often begins from 7:00 AM or 8:00 AM. Dinner service usually runs until 9:P.M. OR 10:00 PM, with later hours for weekends in entertainment districts.
On Public Holidays (Statutory Holidays), the majority of businesses are closed or have reduced hours. Public transport may run on a Sunday schedule. Religious holidays usually do not business hours unless they coincide.
Enhance your airport experience or seek assistance if your flight is disrupted.
Always confirm specific business hours and holiday schedules online before your visit to ensure smooth operations.
A smooth visit involves understanding local customs and social graces.
A handshake and a friendly 'Hello, how are you?' is standard. A firm handshake and direct eye contact are appropriate in formal settings.
Toronto is a casual city; jeans and comfortable wear are acceptable almost anywhere. Formal attire for fine dining, specific cultural events (opera, ballet), or high-end business meetings.
Tipping is an expected part of dining culture. Generally similar to Western customs, eating with utensils.
Taking photos of public spaces, landmarks, and street scenes is generally permitted. Always seek permission to photograph people, especially children.
Embrace Toronto's multiculturalism, be open to learning, and interact respectfully with local customs and people.
Toronto seeks to be an accessible city, though older infrastructure sometimes has challenges. Plan for specific needs.
Many subway terminals are accessible with elevators, but not all. Check the TTC website (ttc.ca) for current accessible stations. All TTC buses and contemporary streetcars are low-floor and accessible.
The majority of main attractions, including the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO), Ripley's Aquarium, and St. Lawrence Market, are wheelchair accessible.
Guide dogs are permitted in nearly all public places for visual impairments. Some sights provide audio guides or tactile exhibits.
The TTC website (ttc.ca/riding-the-ttc/Accessible-transit) provides comprehensive information. The City of Toronto's official website details municipal accessibility initiatives.
Use the PRESTO card for public transit. It makes transit easier than cash and works with accessibility features on the system.
