Toronto in Canada... ( Call us to book your cheap Toronto package holiday)

Toronto is the largest city in Canada, and is the provincial capital of Ontario. Situated on the north-western shore of Lake Ontario, Toronto is a magnificent city to visit. The name Toronto is derived from the Iroquois word tkaronto meaning “place where trees stand in water”, referring to the northern end of what is now Lake Simcoe. Toronto has seen many changes over the years, but the Great Toronto Fire of 1904 destroyed a large part of downtown Toronto, none the less, the city was quickly rebuilt. Immigrant groups quickly established roots in the vicinity, and Toronto became a multi-cultural centre. To this day, Toronto is home to many ethnic festivals throughout the year.

Toronto covers an area of 243 square miles, and boasts 29 miles of waterfront shoreline. Known as the city of neighbourhoods, Toronto has distinct areas, many of which are tightly packed together, but each has its own characteristic charm. Exploration by foot is essential in this area, especially during the warmer months.

Downtown area of Toronto

The Financial District is the core of the economic centre of Canada. Bay Street is home to the Head Offices of the Big Five Canadian Banks.

Harbourfront is along the waterfront from Bathurst to Yonge, and during the summer months, offers free cultural festivals.

Chinatown is centred on Spadina Avenue and Dundas Street, and is home to a large produce market, offering unusual Cchinese foods

The Annex is a food and shopping Mecca, where one can find a diverse array of goods for sale. Set in a friendly neighbourhood with tree lined streets, many older houses can still seen standing proud.

The Toronto Islands are a chain of islands in Toronto harbour. Catch a ferry across to these islands and spend at least a day exploring them. It is much quieter here, as it is a car free zone.

The Beach is located along Queen Street East, east of Woodbine. Here one can find a trendy neighbourhood of young professionals, cafés, beaches, a boardwalk, and a fantastic summer Jazz festival.

East End area of Toronto

The East End, formerly known as the city of Scarborough, was largely designed during the 1970’s and is home to the fabulous Metro Toronto Zoo, the picturesque Scarborough Bluffs, which overlook Lake Ontario, and the amazing botanical Rosetta McClain Gardens.

Mid Town area of Toronto

Midtown comprises of Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue, which is a popular young neighbourhood with vibrant shopping areas, movie theatres and many excellent restaurants. Colloquially called "Young and Eligible" since many people in their late 20s and early 30s tend to rent apartments here.

North York area of Toronto

North York - A large number of upscale condominium buildings has added vigour to this area in recent years. Also the home of Little Moscow and other cultural districts. Large Chinese, Korean, Iranian, and Jewish communities exist in North York.

West Toronto area

West Toronto/Etobicoke - Etobicoke is largely comprised of middle class housing and suburbs, much of the land is commercial/industrial but with more concentrated Waterfront condominium development occurring at a fast pace in Mimico.

Toronto has warm, humid summers and generally cold winters, although the winter is fairly mild compared to many northern regions of Canada. The temperature during the winter months can remain below -10c, and snow can fall anytime between November until mid-April. The summer temperatures can reach up to 35 degrees Celsius, sometimes with high humidity, and this can feel oppressive at times.

Bargain Canada city breaks to Toronto are more affordable these days, and many British tourists opt to spend their holidays exploring this wonderful diverse city. Bargain flights and package holiday deals are available from many major UK airports, including Manchester and both London Gatwick and Heathrow. Toronto is serviced by Pearson International Airport (YYZ), and transfer time is approximately 45 minutes by car. On arrival, make sure you turn your clocks back by 5 hours, as the time zone is -5 GMT.