Toronto Canada Travel Tips

Travel Etiquette Tips for Toronto, Canada

  1. Map and Directions: Always carry a map or use digital maps (Google Maps) to navigate the city. Toronto has an extensive public transit system (TTC).

  2. Transit Etiquette: Stand clear of the doors when boarding, give up your seat for pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities, and don’t eat on the subway.

  3. Pedestrian Rights: Pedestrians have the right-of-way at crosswalks, but always look both ways before crossing, especially for turning vehicles.

  4. Tipping: It is customary to tip 15% in restaurants and 10-15 cents per item in coffee shops. Taxi drivers expect a minimum of 10%.

Cultural Etiquette Tips

  1. Politeness: Canadians are generally polite, friendly, and patient people. Please reciprocate.

  2. Queuing: Canadians queue patiently in lines at stores, restaurants, and attractions. It’s important to do the same.

  3. Apologies: Apologizing is a common habit among Canadians; it doesn’t necessarily reflect blame or fault.

  4. Respect for Indigenous Culture: Toronto has a rich indigenous history. Visit cultural centers like the Native Canadian Centre of Torontoto learn more about indigenous cultures and traditions.

  5. Multi-cultural City: Toronto is a multicultural city with people from diverse ethnic backgrounds. Be respectful, open-minded, and tolerant.

  6. Public Spaces: Public spaces like parks and beaches are for everyone to enjoy. Respect others using these spaces and clean up after yourself.

  7. Smoking and Cannabis Regulations: Smoking is not allowed in most indoor public places or within 9 meters of building entrances. Recreational cannabis use is legal, but it’s prohibited in many public spaces.

  8. Language: While English is the primary language, you may encounter French speakers, especially in business settings. Many Torontonians are also multilingual, and you might find that they switch between languages during conversations.