Toronto has a lot to offer during the Holidays: with numerous Christmas-inspired activities and pop ups all around town, it is one of the most interesting times of the year to visit. But, considering it is also more expensive to travel around the Holidays, here are few tips on how to nail your budget-friendly getaway in Toronto.
How to visit Toronto this season
1- Stay alert for travel deals
Many travel companies offer promotions, you just have to be alert and organized. As an example, Via Rail discounts their train tickets Montreal-Toronto on Tuesdays. If you book in advance and are flexible on the departure time, you could get your hands on a round-trip train ticket for less than 90$. If you prefer to fly and are willing to extend the travel budget, know that Porter Airlines often send promo codes to those who signed up for their newsletter. It is then possible to book a round-trip flight for 200$, but you must reserve in advance.
2- Carefully select your hotel
In a city as expensive as Toronto, it might seem impossible to find a hotel that has it all: comfortable, modern, well-located and budget-friendly. As an example, Holiday Inn Express Toronto Downtown recently renovated their spaces for 10 M$. Offering spacious and refurbished rooms, a complimentary hot breakfast buffet and free Wi-Fi, this smart accommodation option is located at walking distance from CF Eaton Center and St-Lawrence Market.
3- Get your hands on a CITYPass
The Toronto CityPASS allows you to visit the city’s main attractions : CN Tower, Canada’s Aquarium, Casa Loma (which is magically decorated for the Holidays), the Toronto Zoo (that presents Terra Lumina, a Moment Factory Holiday experience) and the ROM for 50$ less than the regular ticketed price. A smart idea if you want to do and see everything during your weekend getaway.
4- Take advantage of (all) the free attractions
Of course, you MUST go see the Toronto Christmas Market that will get you into the Holiday Spirit in a heart beat. With spectacular light installations, live Christmas music, Santa’s house, a giant Christmas tree and numerous family-friendly activities, the Distillery District welcomes you until December 22nd every day. And, did you know that the entrance is free on week days? Talking about free, you can also visit the new Union Station outdoor skating rink and Holiday pop up without having to spend a dime. For impressive Christmas lights and decors, plan a visit to CF Eaton Center where you will find the tallest Christmas tree in the country, animated Christmas-themed windows at The Bay, and numerous lights and art installations.
For more “Christmas-themed” activities, you can read “7 new Holiday events to experience in Toronto” https://www.seetorontonow.com/attractions/new-holiday-events-in-toronto/
5- Prefer food hall to site down restaurants
With the opening of the very first Eataly in Canada, why not trade the sit-dow restaurant for a food hall that offers, that offers great food at a lower price point. Discover 50, 000 sq. foot of gourmet counter : pizzas, pastas, antipastis, gelatos, coffees and pastries: you can eat at Eataly Toronto at any time of the day. Assembly Chef’s Hall is also a food hall that is worth a visit : their 17 chefs are offering a pop-up version of their restaurants. A great alternative to eating restaurant-quality dishes in a more casual setting.
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