For many Canadians Toronto is a popular hub for travelling the world. I have spent countless hours waiting for a connecting flight. If you have time why not turn your layover in Toronto, into a mini adventure.
Note: Remember that you can’t see everything Toronto has to offer in a Layover, or just 1 day. I would suggest choosing 2-3 different things to see, and prioritize from there.
Getting Around
Transportation: There are a number of different ways to get around Toronto. If you are on a budget, like I normally am, then the train and Uber are the two to use. The train takes twenty-five minutes from the Airport to Union Station, in Downtown Toronto. The cost is $12.35 for one way.
Luggage: If you are like me and only use a carry-on to travel, you are going to want to store your bags for your layover in Toronto. The Toronto airport does have a place you can do this at the Excess Baggage Company. I have not personally used this, but the prices seem reasonable. If your layover is overnight, some hotels downtown will hold your bags for free even after you check out.
Start in Downtown Toronto
See the CN Tower
Start your day at the CN Tower. This is one of the most popular attractions in Toronto, and is about fifteen minutes from Union Station. The tower is part of Toronto’s iconic skyline, and is the tallest structure in Canada. Make sure to check their website as they sometimes offer timed ticketing to skip the line, and discounts if you are part of certain memberships such as Air Miles.
Stop for Lunch at Assembly Chef's Hall
Assembly Chef’s Hall consits of local food vendors, and has a ‘fancy’ food court atmosphere. The caramel rainbow lattes from Bulldog Coffee are really good, as are the tacos from COLIBRÍ. I couldn’t recommend this place more, as there are options for every kind of food lover. They are located right behind the Sheraton Centre Hotel.
Note: For people with a long layover, or are thinking of sticking Downtown, the Eaton Centre is only a 5-10 minute walk from here.
Head to Kensington Market
Kensington Market is a quirky unique place, with street art, local shops, boutiques, and a variety of restaurants.
Jimmy's Coffe
Take an Uber to Kensington Market from downtown. Walk the neighborhood, and check out the outdoor patio at Jimmy’s Coffee to relax after a morning on the go.
To end you layover in Toronto head to Rasta Pasta for supper
Rasta Pasta is a Jamaican restaurant that describes themselves as “Jerk Chicken and Pasta with a Caribbean twist”. This restaurant was recommended to me by a local, and if I hadn’t been looking for it I probably would have missed it. It is a small shop with limited seating, so be prepared to wait. I had their Scampi Linguine, though I am sure their jerk chicken is also good.
There are many mini adventures to be had for a layover in Toronto. To add your own ideas for travelers please leave a comment below.