Visiting Toronto For The First Time: What to Do Without Wasting Time

World Cup Toronto: Where to Stay Part 1

Visiting Toronto for the first time can be both exciting and a little overwhelming. With the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, many European fans (and the occasional skeptical spouse who really just wants good coffee and shopping) are already looking for advice on where to stay. Whether you’re chasing goals at BMO Field, planning family activities, or simply figuring out how to get around without a car, this guide breaks down Toronto’s neighbourhoods, accommodations, and transportation options. By the end, you’ll know exactly what area to stay in Toronto, where to stay in Toronto without a car, and even where to stay near to BMO Field.

Staying Close to the Action: Exhibition Place & Liberty Village

BMO Field, the heart of Toronto’s World Cup matches, sits in Exhibition Place. If you want to be near the stadium, Liberty Village is your best bet. It’s a trendy district with cafés, craft breweries, and loft-style condos.

• Pros: You can walk to the stadium in under 15 minutes. There’s nightlife, restaurants, and easy streetcar connections to downtown.
• Cons: Hotels are limited, and prices spike during events. It’s lively, but that also means noisy.

Hotels:

• Luxury: Hotel X Toronto – Think rooftop pool, lake views, and a bar that looks like it was designed for Instagram. Reviews praise the “five-star service and unbeatable location.”
• Mid-range: Gladstone House – An artsy boutique hotel on Queen Street West. Guests love the quirky décor and proximity to transit.
• Budget: Airbnb and Vrbo options dominate this area. Expect compact condos with kitchenettes, perfect for those who want to save money by cooking at home.

Transportation: Liberty Village connects to the 504 and 509 streetcars. Grab a PRESTO card (Toronto’s tap-and-go transit card) and you’re set for hopping between the stadium and attractions. If visiting Toronto for the first time, buying a PRESTO card will save you time and frustration when getting on and off TTC or other transit systems. Buy them at subway stations or kiosks throughout the city.

Downtown Core: Entertainment, Business, and Walkability

If you’re asking “where to stay in Toronto without a car,” the downtown core is the easy answer. It’s safe, packed with hotels, and walkable to almost everything. You’ll also find Union Station here, Toronto’s transit hub.

• Pros: Perfect for visitors who want museums, restaurants, and CN Tower selfies. No car needed.
• Cons: It’s busy, and prices reflect the prime location. Think Paris during Roland Garros but with more Tim Hortons.

Hotels:

• Luxury: Fairmont Royal York – An iconic railway hotel across from Union Station. Reviews mention “elegance with modern touches.”
• Mid-range: Chelsea Hotel Toronto – Family-friendly with a pool and decent rates. Guests highlight “great location for the price.”
• Budget: HI Toronto Hostel – A no-frills stay near St. Lawrence Market. Backpackers love the communal vibe.

Transportation: Union Station connects to subways, buses, regional GO Trains, and the UP Express train to Pearson Airport. From here, you can reach BMO Field in under 15 minutes via the 509 or 511 streetcar. When visiting Toronto for the first time, it is easy to be intimidated by Union Station. It is huge. Look up and follow the directional signs Or head outside to locate the CN Tover and get your bearings.

West End Charm: Queen West & Parkdale

Heading west, you’ll find Queen West and Parkdale, known for indie shops, nightlife, and multicultural food. This is a favourite for younger fans and adventurous travellers.

• Pros: Affordable dining, artsy vibe, and direct streetcar to BMO Field.
• Cons: Some streets feel rough around the edges, and noise can be a factor.

Hotels:

• Luxury: 1 Hotel Toronto – Eco-luxury with rooftop pool and spa. Reviews rave about its “green ethos and great cocktails.”
• Mid-range: Drake Hotel – Hip, boutique, and artsy. Known for live music and brunch.
• Budget: Small Airbnbs or low-cost guesthouses. Not glamorous, but affordable.

Transportation: The 501 Queen streetcar takes you across the city, including to Liberty Village. PRESTO is your friend again here.

Visiting Toronto for the first time? Here are some activities to check out:

Mid-Town & Uptown: Yorkville, Annex, and Beyond

If you’re wondering what area to stay in Toronto for luxury shopping and quieter nights, Yorkville is your answer. The Annex and Midtown areas balance residential charm with easy subway access.

• Pros: Safe, upscale, and excellent for couples or families who prefer quieter evenings.
• Cons: A longer ride to BMO Field (20–30 minutes). Prices in Yorkville are steep.

Hotels:

• Luxury: Four Seasons Hotel Toronto – Michelin-starred dining, spa, and service that makes you feel like royalty.
• Mid-range: Kimpton Saint George – Boutique charm near the Annex, with cozy interiors and friendly staff.
• Budget: Madison Manor Boutique Hotel – Affordable, clean, and steps from the subway. Guests appreciate its “value and location.”

Transportation: The Yonge-University subway line runs south to Union Station, where you can catch a streetcar to BMO Field. Total travel: about 30 minutes.

North York & Suburban Options

For travellers asking “where to stay in Toronto on a budget” or those bringing family, the suburbs can be a smart choice. North York, Etobicoke, and Scarborough offer chain hotels at lower prices.

• Pros: Budget-friendly, safe, and often include parking.
• Cons: Longer commute (45–60 minutes) and less nightlife.

Hotels:

• Luxury: Westin Prince Hotel – Suburban comfort with spacious rooms.
• Mid-range: Holiday Inn Toronto Airport East – Affordable, reliable, and close to the airport.
• Budget: Comfort Inn North York – Simple and clean. Guests praise its “friendly staff and value.”

Transportation: Subways and buses connect you back downtown, but it takes time. If you’re renting a car, note that parking near BMO Field is limited and pricey. Public transit is still the smarter choice.

Transportation Tips: PRESTO and Getting Around

Toronto’s public transit (TTC) is your best friend. Pick up a PRESTO card at Pearson Airport, Union Station, or Shoppers Drug Mart. Tap to pay on buses, streetcars, and subways. A single fare covers unlimited transfers for two hours, which is enough time to get from BMO Field to just about any museum or market.

Taxis and rideshares are available, but expect heavy traffic on game days. Walking is often the quickest way if you’re within 3–4 km of the stadium.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Toronto for the First Time

Final Thoughts

Visiting Toronto for the first time during the World Cup doesn’t have to feel like playing extra time with no substitutions left. Whether you want to splurge on a rooftop pool in Yorkville, stay on a budget Airbnb in Parkdale, or book a mid-range hotel right by the stadium, there’s an option for every fan. Think about your travel style, budget, and how close you want to be to BMO Field. With Toronto’s safe neighbourhoods and reliable transit, you’ll be able to balance football, family, and fun.

Some Other Posts You Might Like:

Where to go in Canada

Toronto travel tips

Fall activities in Windsor Essex

Visit Vancouver for World Cup 2026

Some of My References and Useful External Links

Toronto Transit Commission – PRESTO Info

Destination Toronto – Where to Stay

BMO Field Official Site

Toronto Neighbourhood Guide

Please note: the opinions expressed in this post should never be construed as advice. The thoughts are based on my experiences and those of my friends and family. Whether traveling, exercising or other activity it is always a matter of personal preference.  Find what you like and enjoy and share if you want with us all!
Also: If considering a change in diet, exercise, nutrition and or supplements, you must consult your medical practitioner to make sure that what you are about to embark upon doesn’t interfere with your current treatments.