How To Experience Toronto Attractions Affordably

Canada Toronto experience cheap

We have visited Toronto many times. Monika began many of her trips there as a tour guide. She usually stayed in upscale hotels in the city center. The two of us also frequently traveled as travel bloggers in the city, often at the invitation of the tourism authorities. We stayed in selected luxury hotels. We even spent a longer time in Toronto when we attended a travel blogger conference. We tested how you can experience Canada Toronto inexpensively. We collected these travel tips for the Toronto sights. A visit to the Toronto sights does not have to be expensive.

 

 

We've learned how to experience Toronto in an exclusive way. But there are also many ways to save money. You can visit numerous attractions without breaking your budget. Our experiences will help you get the most out of your visit. Toronto is a city full of diversity and has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for luxury or want to travel on a budget, you'll love it.

Travel tips on how to experience Toronto attractions cheaply

With these travel tips, we will introduce you to how to experience Toronto attractions cheaply. You don't think so? Oh yes, if you know the tricks that we present to you here. Our Toronto travel tipsHow to experience the city cheap, help you. Search for hotels in the center on your budget.

 

 

Of course, the hotels that are further out of town are cheaper. However, you should also include the travel costs in your considerations here. Toronto is the biggest City of CanadaTherefore, the traffic density is high. It is better to a hotel or hostel in the city center* (advertisement). From there you can explore the city on foot or by subway, tram or bus. You can also buy a two-day pass for the sightseeing buses.

 

 

 

It does not have to be the Ritz

Normally we stay in hotels with at least three stars on our trips to Toronto. For the days of our cheap trip to Toronto we rented a holiday apartment. The location couldn't be better. Toronto's attractions are practically on our doorstep.

Our room is in one of the high-rise buildings directly on Lake Ontario. It is just steps away from the ferry station from where the ships depart to the Toronto Islands. The city center is just a few minutes' walk away.

We have our apartment for the days we stay here. The best thing: the Westin Hotel* is in the building next door. While you pay at least (!) 269 dollars for a double room there, an overnight stay in Toronto only costs us 80 dollars per night. Good thing - we don't have a breakfast restaurant in the house.

Instead, it is just steps to the coffee shop that serves excellent Eggs Benedict. Coffee shops like this one are located on Queens Quay, one of Toronto's attractions. There are also inexpensive Hostels in Downtown Toronto*.

If you book via a link marked *, we receive a commission, which we use to run this blog.

 

 

Avoid a car - the best way to see Toronto attractions is on foot

Although we always like to have our rental car for a visit to a city, This time we do without a vehicleHere we save a lot of money, because normally the city's hotels charge considerable prices for parking a car.

This also means we don't have to pay for car rental during the first few days, which we can instead invest in taxis when we're in a hurry or using public transport such as buses, trams or subways. This takes a little more time, but is cheaper. The best way to explore Toronto's attractions is on foot.

We'll also buy one TTC Presto day pass, which currently costs 13,50 per day (as of July 18.11.2024, XNUMX) and allows us to use public transport as much as we want. This also allows us to reach more remote Toronto attractions. You only have to pay extra for the express lines in the city center.

If you are driving a rental car in Toronto, you will have to add parking fees at the hotel to the rental costs, which are rarely less than $15,00 per day. Then there are the prices for petrol and for parking spaces that you use in the city during the day. If you are on the road all day, you can easily save 50%. Remarkable, I think.

Additional costs, for which considerable amounts are often charged in a luxury hotel, such as WiFi access in the room, are free here. Well, we need ours suitcase bring it up yourself, but this is a minor evil if you compare the price difference between a luxury hotel and a vacation rental with a view of the CN Tower.

 

 

 

Breakfast in coffee shops and dinner in restaurants

If we had time to prepare our breakfast, we could do it in the microwave and with the coffee machine in our room. Overlooking one of Toronto's top attractions - the CN Tower. But since we don't have enough time, we prefer to go to one of the coffee shops in the area for breakfast. There is a large selection.

We eat in three cafes over four days: Eggs Benedict with fruit salad and served by a friendly waiter (two breakfasts, two coffees and 1 orange juice for $17), once at Second Cup, where we get a bagel with egg and sausage plus two double Cafe Americanos ($20 for two people) and once at a snack bar in Queens Quay for $17, a bagel with egg, a croissant with egg, two cups of coffee, 1 orange juice and a cupcake.

In a top hotel like the Westin, you can easily pay $27 per person for breakfast. Here, too, we save almost 50% of the price charged in a luxury hotel. Two of the cafes we visit are located in Queens Quay - itself one of Toronto's attractions worth a visit.

New restaurants 2024:

• LOCAL Public Eatery: Opening of a third location in Toronto's financial district on February 1, 2024.
• Mandy's Gourmet Salads: The Montreal-based salad bar opens a second location in Toronto.

 

 

 

Map of cheap Toronto attractions

 

Canada Toronto attractions that can visit for no or little money

Entrance fees and prices for activities can quickly drive up your travel budget. Instead, there are activities that you can include in your Toronto trip for free or for a low price. With these tips you can protect your wallet and still see Toronto attractions from different perspectives.

• Distillery District

In this pedestrian zone in the vicinity of the Gooderham & Worts Distillery just outside the city center, you can stroll through galleries and shops. The whiskey distillery neighborhood has grown into a Toronto attraction in itself. Large chain stores are not permitted here, however. Instead you will find nice boutiques and arts and craft stores.

Address:
55 Mill St.
Toronto, ON M5A 3CE
Website

 

 

• St. Lawrence Market

One of my favorite Toronto attractions is the markets. The St. Lawrence Market on the corner of Front Street and Jarvis has all kinds of food. The market is also a place for an inexpensive breakfast or lunch. Or you can buy fresh fruit, pastries or sandwiches for yourself picnic on road. The market is open every day except Sunday and Monday.

Address:
93 Front St. E
Toronto, ON M5E 1C3
Website

 

 

• Culture at the Harbourfront Center

Queens Quay is one of the Toronto attractions that draws many culture lovers in the summer. You can experience a variety of free cultural activities against the backdrop of Lake Ontario. A walk along the waterfront or a visit to one of the parks is also worthwhile. There are also readings, art exhibitions and shows in the market building. Shops and restaurants are also available.

Address:
235 Queens Quay W
Toronto, ON M5J 2G8

 

 

• Experience a show at Yonge-Dundas Square

Yonge-Dundas Square is less well known among the Toronto sights. Yonge-Dundas Square is a little reminiscent of New York City's Times Square. Here you will often find free events, such as films, concerts or promotional events.

Address:
1 Dundas St. E
Toronto, ON M5B 2R8
Website

• Concerts of the Canadian Opera Company

If your travel destinations include cultural Toronto attractions, then we recommend the Canadian Opera Company's free concerts. Bring a picnic and attend one of the lunchtime performances by the Canadian Opera Company. In the amphitheater of the Four Seasons Center for the Performing Arts this offers music concerts.

Address:
145 Queen St. W
Toronto, ON M5H 4G1
Website

• Take a tram to The Beaches

The Beaches is a suburb of Toronto in the east end of the city. There is a beach along Lake Ontario. Here you can spend a day on the beach, strolling the promenade or strolling through the shops and restaurants on Queen Street East.

The best way to get there is by tram 501. This runs along Queen Street. This also gives you a tour of Toronto's most famous street.

• Use the "Free" time in the museums in Canada

Finally, several museums offer free entry at certain times of the week. This is definitely an opportunity to get to know Toronto's cultural offerings.

The permanent exhibition of Art Gallery of Ontario is open every Wednesday from 18.00 to 21.00.

The Bata Shoe Museum offers "Pay as much as you want" access to the museum every Thursday between 17.00pm and 20.00pm. However, it recommends donating $ 5 per person. More information about the museum here.

 

 

The Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art (MOCCA) offers permanent “pay-what-you-can” entry.

The Market Gallery at St. Lawrence Market, which deals with Toronto's history and culture, is also permanently accessible for free.

• Kensington Market

The Kensington Market is one of Toronto's attractions where you can experience the city's cultural diversity up close. However, it is not a food market in the strict sense of the word. Although you will find fruit and food stalls in abundance.

There are also shops that sell vintage furniture. Second-hand clothing is also available, as are clothes from exotic countries around the world. A visit to Kensington Market is easy on the wallet if you are looking for inexpensive food to go. There are numerous Latin American specialties in take-out shops.

Address:
Kensington Ave.
Toronto, ON M5T 2K2
Website

• Chinatown

Another area where you can experience Toronto sights for free is Chinatown. The Chinatown is probably the most exotic part of town that Toronto has to offer. Around the Dundas Spadina intersection you feel like you are in a Chinese city. Shop signs, passers-by and the range of goods in the shops are reminiscent of China.

Visit one of the grocery stores and immerse yourself in a world of exotic foods. Try dim sum in one of Chinatown's restaurants. Or take photos of the Chinese artwork on Spadina Street. A stroll through Chinatown is free and shows you the multicultural side of Toronto.

Address:
Corner Dundas / Spadina St.
Toronto
Website

• College and Bathurst St.

If you want to see and experience more of Toronto's many cultures then why not visit Chinatown and Kensington Market? Walk through the College and Bathurst StHere you will find shops and restaurants run by Portuguese, Italians and Ethiopians, for example.

There is also an Orthodox church on Bathurst Street. You can experience the multi-ethnic city of Toronto on a tour of Spadina, College, Bathurst and Dundas Avenue.

• Ferry to Center Island

On Centre Island – one of the islands in front of Toronto's downtown in Lake Ontario – you can experience the city from a completely different perspective. In ten minutes, the ferry takes you from the hustle and bustle of the big city to an oasis of calm. Enjoy great views of the Toronto skyline, the CN Tower and the Rogers Centre on a walk through the island.

The Ferry runs every 15 to 30 minutes and costs between $4.29 and $9.11 (as of 2024) for a round trip. To avoid queues, you can have the ticket printed out at your hotel. A visit to Centre Island can also be easily combined with a visit to the Toronto Waterfront.

 

Checklist for cheap Toronto trips:

1. Accommodations:
   • Cheap hostels and budget hotels
   • Check Airbnb options
2. Transport:
   • Use Toronto Public Transit (TTC)
   • Buy day or weekly tickets
3. Attractions:
   • Distillery District (free)
   • St. Lawrence Market
   • Toronto Islands (cheap ferry crossing)
4. Free time activities:
   • Free city tours
   • Visit parks and beaches
5. Food:
   • Street food and food trucks
   • Cheap restaurants and cafes
6. Tips:
   • CityPASS for discounts on multiple attractions
   • Attend local events and festivals

 

 

Conclusion of our Toronto sightseeing travel tips:

If you want to see Toronto's attractions cheaply during your vacation, you can easily save two-thirds of the cost of a luxury stay with these tips. Our visit to Toronto was always an exciting experience. The city has so many attractions that you'll never get bored.

Toronto is known for its impressive skyline, dominated by the CN Tower. The view from up there is simply fantastic and an absolute must. If you want to experience the city from a different perspective, we recommend a trip to the Toronto Islands. The short ferry ride is worth it to enjoy nature and admire the skyline from the water.

The Royal Ontario Museum and the Art Gallery of Ontario are also highlights that shouldn't be missed. Both offer impressive exhibitions that will delight both art lovers and history buffs. A stroll through the Distillery District will show you the historic side of the city and offers numerous options for eating, drinking and shopping.

We have visited Toronto many times, often as travel bloggers at the invitation of the tourism authorities. We stayed in various luxury hotels and got to know the city from its exclusive side. Monika began many of her trips as a tour guide in Toronto and collected many valuable tips.

During our time in Toronto, we learned how to experience the city on a smaller budget. There are many ways to save money without missing out on the highlights. Free or inexpensive activities and attractions are plentiful, making every visit an unforgettable experience.

Toronto is a diverse city that has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for luxury or want to travel on a budget, Toronto won't disappoint. We hope our tips help you get the most out of your visit.

 

 

Questions and answers about Toronto attractions:

Are there any free attractions in Toronto?

Yes, many attractions in Toronto are free. For example, you can explore the Distillery District, stroll through the St. Lawrence Market or visit High Park. Graffiti Alley and the Toronto Islands also offer free experiences.

How can I stay cheaply in Toronto?

There are many hostels and budget hotels in Toronto that offer affordable accommodation. Airbnb and other vacation rental platforms are also good options. There are also cheap motels around Toronto that are easily accessible by public transportation.

What are the affordable transportation options in Toronto?

Public transportation in Toronto is a good and inexpensive way to get around the city. A day pass for the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) is inexpensive and allows you unlimited travel on buses, streetcars and subways.

Are there any affordable ways to see Toronto from a bird's eye view?

Yes, instead of visiting expensive observation decks, you can visit Riverdale Park East. From there you can get a great view of the Toronto skyline - and it's free.

What cheap activities can I do in Toronto?

You can visit many museums and galleries for free or at a reduced rate on certain days, such as the Art Gallery of Ontario on Wednesday nights. Strolling along the Harbourfront or visiting the many urban parks and beaches also offer inexpensive experiences.

More information about Toronto:

• toronto.com
• City of Toronto
• Destination Toronto
• Toronto Transit Commission
• Royal Ontario Museum
• Toronto Events

 

 

Further Five cities you should see in Canada, for example, introduces Kate O'Malley from Vagrants of the World.

 

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Travel Arrangements:

Parking at the airport

Here you can reserve your parking space at the airport.

Getting to Toronto attractions:

Compare and book flights here*. (Advertisement) Air Canada, Lufthansa, Condor and Icelandair fly from Germany to Toronto. From there the journey continues by rental car. It is also possible to continue your journey by bus or train.

Car Rentals:

Cheap car hire - book quickly and easily!

Camper Rentals:

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Hotels near Toronto attractions:

Hotels in Toronto * You can also book through our partner booking.com.

If you book through one of these offers, we receive a commission, which we use to run this blog.

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Source for How to experience the city cheaply: your own research on site. Our opinions definitely remain our own.

Text How to experience Toronto sights cheaply: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline
Photos: © Copyright Monika Fuchs as well as TravelWorldOnline and Unsplash
Video: © Copyright Petar Fuchs and TravelWorldOnline

The article was updated on August 18.11.2024, XNUMX.