Explore Toronto

Toronto's one of the most accessible cities in the world. Chances are you're not more than two hours from our creative city. And if you are, it's well worth the trip!

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General Information

Time Zone
Toronto is in the Eastern Standard Time Zone. Toronto time is the same as Detroit, New York, and Florida.

Weather
Weather is reported in the metric measure of Celsius temperature. Average June temperature: 17ºC/63ºF, June high: 24ºC/75ºF, June low: 11ºC / 52ºF

Measurements
Canada uses the Metric system for weights and measures. There are 0.6215 miles in a kilometer. (Examples: 10 miles is approximately 16 kilometers and 15 miles is approximately 24 kilometers.) If you choose to drive your car from the U.S. into Canada, please be aware the speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour instead of miles per hour.

Communcations

Languages Spoken
There are two official Canadian languages – English and French. In addition to these, the top 5 languages spoken in Toronto are Italian, Chinese, Cantonese, Punjabi and Tagalog.

Mobile Phone Service
Please contact your service provider directly to inquire if service is available and/or the applicable rates.

Currency and Taxes

Money Matters
Toronto offers visitors world-class products without world-class prices. Be sure to pack an extra bag for the loot you'll want to bring back home.

• Toronto’s currency is the Canadian Dollar
• For denominations under five dollars the currency are coins - some even have cute names: the loonie ($1), the toonie ($2)
• US dollars are accepted in most Toronto establishments, although you'll receive change in Canadian funds and exchange rates will differ from merchant to merchant
• You’ll find cash machines/ATMs in most banks, hotels and shopping centers
• Travelers cheques and credit cards are accepted at most (but not all) major retailers
• Currency exchange is available at banks and kiosks throughout the city and at the airport
• The ATMs at the airport only accept ATM cards with the MasterCard logo on them

For a currency converter please click here.

*Remember to call your bank and credit card companies and let them know you will be traveling to Canada. Some banks and credit card companies may freeze access to accounts if irregular activity is occurring– they may think your card has been stolen if they are not told ahead of time that you plan on traveling outside of your country.

Tipping
If you’re happy with the service you receive, a 15-20% tip on the pre-tax bill is a standard expression of appreciation when dining out in the city. Note that some restaurants automatically add this gratuity when serving large groups, so be sure to check your bill.

Tips are also expected for services such as haircuts, shoe shines and taxi rides. 15-20% is standard in these situations as well.

Taxes
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a 5% tax that is charged on most goods and services sold or provided in Canada. And as we’re part of the Province of Ontario, purchases made in Toronto are also subject to the 8% Provincial Sales Tax (PST).

Tax Rebates for Visitors
When you leave, you may be eligible for a tax refund on the goods you bought in Canada if you export them within 60 days. For more information, ask for a copy of the publication called Tax Refund for Visitors to Canada from the Canada Revenue Agency or call 1-800-66VISIT (1-800-668-4748).

Tax Rebates Services
These companies offer services that ensure your visit to Toronto is less taxing:
» Custom House Global Foreign Exchange
» Global Refund
» Premier Tax-Free Services