Travel around Toronto with Bobby
Day 1Touching the Sky at the CN Tower
Upon arriving in Toronto, my first stop had to be the iconic CN Tower. After checking into The Fairmont Royal York, a cozy hotel conveniently located downtown, I was ready to explore. The hotel’s location made it easy to walk to several attractions, but I decided to hop on the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) for a quick and efficient ride. The moment I stepped into the CN Tower’s glass-front elevator, the excitement built as we ascended to the top. From the SkyPod, I was rewarded with a stunning 360-degree view of Toronto’s skyline, with skyscrapers towering below, Lake Ontario sparkling in the sunlight, and green spaces stretching far into the horizon.
Following that thrilling experience, I took a leisurely walk over to Harbourfront Centre, a vibrant area along the waterfront. The scenic views of the lake and the lively street performances made it a delightful place to unwind. The atmosphere was perfect for a relaxed stroll, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the fresh air and entertainment. The combination of calm waters and bustling energy captured Toronto’s dynamic spirit.
As the day came to a close, I decided to treat myself to dinner at Canoe, a fine-dining gem on the 54th floor of the TD Bank Tower. The restaurant’s take on Canadian cuisine was extraordinary — the venison was incredibly tender, and the wild mushrooms tasted as if they had just been foraged. Dining with a panoramic city view was the perfect way to end my first day in Toronto, blending gourmet flavors with the twinkling lights of the skyline.
“Start your trip with the CN Tower. It gives you a bird’s-eye view of the city and really helps you get your bearings. Don’t miss dining at Canoe for a true taste of elevated Canadian flavors.”
Day 2Art, Culture, and Street Food Adventure
After a restful night, I was eager to explore Toronto’s rich cultural scene. My first destination was the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), where history and modernity seamlessly intersect. The exhibits were captivating, ranging from ancient Egyptian mummies to an impressive dinosaur gallery. I spent hours wandering through the museum’s halls, completely absorbed in the diverse collections that showcase both global heritage and Canadian history.
For lunch, I made my way to Kensington Market, a vibrant neighborhood buzzing with life. Known for its eclectic mix of street food and vintage shops, the area offers a sensory overload. I treated myself to a flavorful Jamaican beef patty from a street vendor, washing it down with a refreshing sugarcane juice. Kensington’s multicultural vibe was unmistakable, with food stalls serving cuisines from around the world, making it as much a visual experience as a culinary one.
In the afternoon, I visited Graffiti Alley, a colorful hub of street art. The walls were alive with creativity, each mural telling its own story through intricate designs and bold colors. I spent over an hour photographing the art, amazed by the skill and expression on display. To end the day, I had dinner at Bar Isabel, a cozy restaurant with a lively ambiance. Their Spanish-inspired tapas — from tender grilled octopus to rich, seared chorizo — offered a delightful, shareable dining experience that perfectly capped off my cultural adventure.
Kensington Market’s street food scene was diverse and exciting. I enjoyed a Jamaican beef patty and sugarcane juice, which was a tasty and budget-friendly option. Bar Isabel in the evening was a great choice for flavorful Spanish tapas.
Food
My stay at the Fairmont Royal York continued to be comfortable and accommodating, with attentive staff and a prime location.
Accomodation
Exploring the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) was a fascinating cultural experience, followed by the street art at Graffiti Alley, which brought the creative energy of the city to life.
Activity
“If you love art and culture, start your day at the ROM, but don’t miss out on Kensington Market for lunch. You can easily spend half a day here just wandering the streets and tasting everything!”
Day 3Nature Escape at Toronto Islands
After two days of immersing myself in Toronto’s urban landscape, I decided it was time to reconnect with nature. I took a ferry from the harbor to the Toronto Islands, a serene retreat away from the city’s fast pace. Renting a bike was the perfect way to explore, allowing me to glide past beautiful beaches, peaceful lagoons, and lush green parks. The islands offered stunning views of the Toronto skyline across the water, making the ride both relaxing and picturesque.
The afternoon was spent unwinding at Centre Island Beach, where I soaked up the sunshine and enjoyed the gentle breeze from Lake Ontario. The laid-back atmosphere of the beach was a refreshing change from the bustling city streets. I stopped at Rectory Café for a light lunch — a fresh salad paired with iced tea, just right for the warm, sunny weather. It was the kind of afternoon that made me feel fully recharged and ready for more adventures.
As evening fell, I took the ferry back to the city and headed to the Distillery District, a charming, pedestrian-only area. Filled with art galleries, chic boutiques, and renowned restaurants, the district buzzes with creativity and energy. For dinner, I chose Cluny Bistro, a stylish French restaurant known for its refined dishes. Their duck confit was extraordinary, perfectly cooked with rich flavors that made every bite unforgettable — the ideal way to end my day surrounded by Toronto’s culinary excellence.
Lunch at Rectory Café on the Toronto Islands was simple but fresh and perfectly suited for the relaxed atmosphere of the islands. Cluny Bistro in the evening provided a delightful French dining experience, with the duck confit being a highlight.
Food
The Fairmont’s central location continued to be a major advantage, allowing for easy transportation to the islands and back, along with luxurious comfort.
Accomodation
Renting a bike and exploring the Toronto Islands was a peaceful and scenic break from the city. The views of the Toronto skyline from Centre Island were nothing short of spectacular.
Activity
“The Toronto Islands are a must for anyone looking to escape the city without going too far. Bring a bike or rent one there — it’s the best way to see everything!”
Day 4Exploring Toronto’s Nightlife
For my last day in Toronto, I wanted a perfect blend of history, shopping, and nightlife. I began the day with a visit to Casa Loma, a magnificent castle right in the heart of the city. Its breathtaking architecture and meticulously maintained gardens felt like a step back in time. Wandering through the grand halls, I imagined what life might have been like in such an opulent setting. It’s incredible that a place so regal exists amid Toronto’s urban landscape, offering a glimpse into the city’s history and charm.
In the afternoon, I explored Queen Street West, a trendy hub known for its quirky boutiques, art galleries, and bustling cafes. The area buzzed with creativity, making it the perfect spot for shopping and people-watching. I found some unique souvenirs and enjoyed a smooth latte at Dark Horse Espresso Bar, a local favorite known for its relaxed vibe. The street’s blend of art, fashion, and coffee culture made it easy to lose track of time.
As evening approached, I shifted gears to explore Toronto’s nightlife. I kicked off the night at Lavelle, a rooftop lounge offering spectacular views of the city skyline and delicious cocktails. The ambiance was perfect for unwinding as the sun set over the city. Later, I made my way to Rebel, one of Toronto’s largest and most popular nightclubs. The energy inside was electric, with vibrant lights and live DJs setting the perfect rhythm for dancing. It was the ideal way to wrap up my trip, leaving me with unforgettable memories of Toronto’s dynamic nightlife.
Queen Street West offered a mix of trendy cafes, and I enjoyed a latte at Dark Horse Espresso Bar. Later, I had cocktails at Lavelle, a rooftop lounge with both great drinks and stunning views, followed by a night of dancing at Rebel.
Food
Once again, the Fairmont Royal York delivered on luxury and location, allowing me to easily transition from daytime explorations to nighttime excitement.
Accomodation
Casa Loma was a stunning historical site, and exploring its grand halls felt like stepping back in time. The lively nightlife on King Street West, with rooftop drinks at Lavelle and dancing at Rebel, was the perfect way to end my trip.
Activity
“Toronto’s nightlife is incredibly diverse, but King Street West is where the action is. Whether you’re looking for a rooftop drink or a night of dancing, this area has it all.”
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Toronto is a city that offers a rich blend of culture, adventure, and modern conveniences, making it an appealing destination for all types of travelers. From iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods to an incredibly diverse food scene, the city delivers a variety of experiences. After spending time here, I’ve come to appreciate the balance Toronto strikes between being an exciting urban hub and a peaceful retreat. Here’s how I would rate the city based on my experience:
I dined at Canoe, a fine-dining restaurant with stunning views and fantastic Canadian-inspired dishes. The venison was tender and flavorful, and the service was impeccable. A great introduction to Toronto’s culinary scene.
Food
The Fairmont Royal York provided a perfect balance of comfort and convenience. The classic décor and spacious rooms made it an ideal spot to relax after a long day of exploring the city.
Accomodation
Visiting the CN Tower and soaking in the views from the SkyPod was the perfect way to kick off my trip. The experience was exhilarating, and the panoramic views of the city and Lake Ontario were unbeatable.
Activity