Is it going to be your first time in Toronto? Many first-timers to the city often end up making several common errors that you should ideally avoid. Let’s look at some of them in more detail below.
Errors You Should Avoid While in Toronto
Here are the top 10 mistakes you shouldn’t make when in Toronto.
- Neglecting Public Transportation:
The biggest mistake that many first-timers make in Toronto is depending on ride-shares and taxis. What happens, as a result, is longer travel times due to city traffic and soaring travel costs which may eat into budgets. You should avoid this by focusing on using the Toronto subway, streetcar, and bus systems (TTC). You can buy a PRESTO card at any subway station or use contactless payments to travel quickly between destinations and that too at more affordable rates.
- Staying Only in the Downtown Core Area:
While you may book your Stays in Toronto in the Downtown Core to stay in the heart of the action, don’t just limit yourself to this zone. Most first-timers make the mistake of eating and staying only in the downtown area which is busy and crowded with tourists. Step out and explore diverse and authentic localities like Leslieville, Kensington Market and Danforth for more dining options and hidden gems.
- Underestimating the Extreme Summer or Winter Weather:
Many first-time visitors end up underestimating the severe weather swings in Toronto, both in the summer and winter. It can go down to -25°C in the winter with chilly winds, or even jump up to 35°C in summer. Hence, make sure you dress in layers and have suitable insulated coats, boots, and other warm gear in the winter. In the summer, carry a light jacket for chilly indoor air-conditioning across several public spaces.
- Not Validating Your Journey & Standing Left On the Escalators:
Many first-timers ignore proper subway etiquette and stand on the left side of the escalators, which ends up blocking local travelers. Another mistake is not validating the journey. You should always pay for your ticket and validate your transit while keeping your phone/transfer handy. Stand on the right of the escalators and walk on the left without fail.
- Ignoring the eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization):
Many first-time travelers assume that a visa or special document is not required when arriving from visa-exempted nations. However, what you SHOULD do is apply for the eTA online before you book, particularly if you’re flying into the country.
- Bypassing Travel Insurance:
Don’t make the mistake of traveling to Toronto without travel insurance to save a little money. It will give you much-needed financial coverage in case of sudden medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost items.
- Not Accounting for Tips & High Service Taxes:
Don’t just expect to pay the prices listed on menus. You should account for tipping and taxes alike. An additional 13% should be budgeted for HST (taxes), while 15-20% is a standard tip at most restaurants while dining out in Toronto.
- Not Removing Shoes at Homes:
When you’re visiting the home of any local in Toronto, don’t wear outdoor shoes inside, since it’s considered rude. Always remove your shoes outside unless you’re told otherwise.
- Skipping Toronto Island:
Many first-time travelers make the mistake of not visiting the Toronto Islands. You should know that it’s one of the best locations to enjoy amazing city skyline views. You can take the ferry from the Jack Layton Ferry Terminal for a wonderful and affordable day trip with gorgeous views to capture.
- Not Pronouncing the City Name Properly:
One mistake that first-timers make is not pronouncing the name of the city properly. Pronouncing the second t, as in, Tuh-ron-toe, will make it obvious that you’re not a local. Avoid this common error by saying Toron-no or Chur-no (these are more like it).
There are some other mistakes to avoid as well, including neglecting the unique neighborhoods like Cabbagetown and Chinatown, which are great places to dine and sample the local culture. At the same time, don’t make the mistake of not booking tickets to key attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium and the CN Tower in advance. Booking in advance will help you avoid the long queues at these landmarks. Don’t just eat at big food chains or near the Dundas Square or CN Tower, since these may be over-priced.
Best Attractions to See in Toronto on Your First Trip
On that note, here are some of the top attractions that you can explore in Toronto when you’re visiting the city for the very first time.
- CN Tower: Take an elevator ride to the top to enjoy gorgeous views of the city. Don’t miss trying the exciting outdoor Edgewalk here as well.
- Toronto Island Park: You can just take a quick ferry ride to reach this spot with its bike traits, lovely beaches, and stunning views of the city skyline.
- Royal Ontario Museum: Make sure you explore this huge museum that showcases fascinating culture, art, and natural history.
- Lawrence Market: It is a famous food market that is often regarded as one of the best in the world and is ideal for sampling the delicious peameal bacon sandwich.
- Casa Loma: You will love visiting the iconic castle of Canada that offers amazing glimpses of the past with wonderful architecture.
- Distillery District: It is a pedestrian-only zone with charming Victorian-era industrial architecture for you to check out. There are several cafes and galleries available here as well.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: Situated just adjacent to the CN Tower, it comes with a huge underwater viewing tunnel that you will fall in love with!
- Kensington Market: You will love visiting this bohemian locality with its diverse food offerings and vintage shopping choices.
- Art Gallery of Ontario: It is one of the biggest art museums in North America that is a must-visit for art lovers.
- Graffiti Alley: Don’t miss exploring this bustling network of alleys with fascinating urban and street art on display.
- Nathan Phillips Square: This is where you’ll find the City Hall and the famous Toronto sign.
You can even consider a day trip to the Niagara Falls from Toronto, as many travelers do. On that note, check out City of Toronto rentals for your stay, book your flights in advance, and chalk out your itinerary strategically. Use the subway and other public transport to get around while you can also leverage the bike share program to explore the downtown zone. Here’s wishing you a fantastic trip ahead!
*completely original content and shows a little AI despite multiple rewrites.