Toronto is a fun city full of cultural and natural beauty waiting to be explored. From the iconic CN Tower to the charming streets of Kensington Market, there is something for everyone. Dive into history at the Royal Ontario Museum, relax at High Park, and savour local flavours at St. Lawrence Market.
Must-See Sights and Travel Essentials
Toronto, the capital of Ontario, is Canada’s most populous city, known for its vibrant multicultural environment and dynamic economy. It serves as a major hub for business, finance, arts, and culture in North America. The city is situated on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario and has an interesting history.
Climate
Toronto has a diverse climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Winters (December to February) can be cold, often dropping below freezing, with occasional snowfalls. Spring and Autumn are mild.
Money
Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD), which is the official currency in Toronto.
Major credit card companies in Canada: American Express, Visa and MasterCard.
Standard banking hours: Monday to Friday from 9:30 until 16:30. Some banks and specific branches may be open later and even on Saturdays and Sundays.
Telephone Country Code
The country code for Canada is +1.
Electricity
110 V; 60Hz – 2 flat-pin plugs
Tap water
Toronto’s tap water is safe to drink, unless there is a sign to the contrary, and meets high standards for quality.
Medical
If you have a medical emergency, go to the emergency department of the hospital closest to you. Take some identification with you, and your insurance policy number. Some hospitals may ask you to pay a fee. Keep the receipt to send to your insurance company for payment. For emergencies call 911.
Go to a walk-in medical clinic for medical problems that are not emergencies. You do not need to make an appointment. You can simply see a doctor. The closest walk-in clinics to EC Toronto is: The Doctor’s Office, 245 Eglinton Avenue East, Tel: 416-488-14552
Health and Insurance Requirements – CAD$19 per week
Transportation
Toronto has an extensive transportation network, making it easy to navigate the city. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates buses, streetcars, and subway trains that connect all major neighborhoods. If you prefer cycling, there are bike lanes throughout the city, and bike-sharing services are available. Taxis and rideshare options such as Uber are also readily accessible.
Public Transport Info
The TTC is the primary public transport system in Toronto, offering an efficient and affordable way to get around the city. You can purchase a single fare, or for longer stays, consider buying a Presto card. The subway is the quickest way to travel long distances, while buses and streetcars cover areas not served by the subway.
One ride: C$3
Weekly transit pass: C$36
Monthly transit pass: C$121
Public holidays falling on a weekday
2025: 1 Jan, 17 Feb, 18 Apr, 19 May, 01 Jul, 04 Aug, 01 Sep, 30 Sep, 13 Oct, 11 Nov, 25 Dec & 26 Dec
It is essential to check visa requirements before arriving in Canada. International students may require a study permit, depending on the length of their stay and nationality. Please contact us for more information.
Legal Driving Age
The legal driving age in Ontario, where Toronto is located, is 16 years old. However, to rent a car, you typically need to be at least 21, and drivers under 25 may face additional surcharges. Most rental companies require that you have an international driving license, a second form of identity and a major credit card.
Alcohol Age
The legal drinking age in Toronto is 19. You may be asked to show a valid photo ID when purchasing alcohol, whether from a store or in a bar or restaurant.
Smoking Laws
The legal age for smoking in Toronto is 18. Smoking laws in Toronto prohibit smoking in enclosed public spaces such as restaurants and bars and within certain distances from entrances to public buildings. If you smoke in a ‘smoke free’ place, you may receive a fine of up to $5000.
Insurance
All EC Toronto students must be covered by health insurance for the entire length of their stay. EC can help students to purchase insurance upon arrival at the school. The cost of insurance is $14 per week. Students will be asked to show proof of coverage on arrival if they are not purchasing insurance through EC.
Cost of Living
Bottle of water / soda (0.33 litre)
C$1.30-C$3.00
Coffee/Cappuccino (Starbucks)
C$3.00-C$5.70
Fast-Food combo meal
C$9.00-C$14.00
Meal, inexpensive restaurant
C$15.00- C$25.00
Fitness club (monthly, 1 adult)
C$40.00-C$85.00
Public transport (local transport)
C$3.25 (one way)
Public transport (monthly pass)
C$152
Experience the thrill of walking hands-free around the edge of the CN Tower, 356 metres above the ground. This unique adventure offers stunning panoramic views of Toronto and is perfect for adrenaline seekers.
The Royal Ontario Museum is one of the largest museums in North America. From ancient civilizations to cutting-edge science, the museum’s diverse exhibits provide a fascinating journey through time.
Enjoy nature in the heart of the city at High Park, Toronto’s largest public park. With beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a small zoo, it is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic amidst lush greenery.
Wander through the historic Distillery District, known for its Victorian-era buildings and cobblestone streets. This area is filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, making it a perfect place to shop and dine.
Whether you are watching a baseball game or attending a concert, the retractable-roof stadium is an iconic venue for entertainment. It is a great way to experience Toronto’s energetic sports culture.
For a unique cultural experience, take a walk through Graffiti Alley, an outdoor gallery of street art. Stretching over several blocks, this alley showcases Toronto’s creative spirit through bold murals and graffiti.
Find out how our international students turned their first steps in language learning into important achievements that changed their lives.
Toronto is one of the most exciting cities in North America, with something for every student to enjoy alongside their academic pursuits. With a wide range of activities and activity options, you’ll have an amazing time exploring this exciting big city (it’s Canada’s most populated city) while improving your English.
Take a fun-filled day trip or join weekend trips through our school’s social programme. Visit world-famous landmarks like the Royal Ontario Museum—the largest museum in Canada—and take in cultural objects and exciting exhibitions. Enjoy cultural experiences in places like the Distillery District and the fashion district, enjoy the city views at the CN Tower and explore Toronto Islands visit City Hall. Don’t miss out on Toronto’s amazing festivals: there’s street festivals and entertainment at events like Salsa on St. Clair and Toronto Caribbean Carnival throughout the year.
Toronto also offers interesting design activities like exploring Old Toronto or walking through Graffiti Alley, a colourful alley known for its street art… and amazing selfies! Try delicious food at local food markets, shop for artisan crafts in boutique stores, or take a bike rental and ride along scenic Lake Ontario bike trails.
With public transportation making it easy to get around, you can enjoy everything from social events to cultural events, day trips to Niagara Falls/Horseshoe Falls, and so much more.
Toronto is also a fantastic city for sports fans. Basketball, hockey, or baseball, there’s always a game to watch. Catch the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena for a real NBA experience, or cheer on the Toronto Maple Leafs, one of the oldest hockey teams in North America. For baseball, go to Rogers Centre to see the Toronto Blue Jays. Watching live sports in Toronto is an exciting activity that brings people together and it’s a great way for international students to enjoy the local culture and community spirit.
Studying English in Toronto isn’t just about learning, on our education programs it’s about living an unforgettable life experience.
At EC Toronto, our academic programmes are designed to you at every stage of your learning process, from beginner to advanced level. We tailor your programme to suit your goals and learning style, and we use the Communicative Approach to help you interact effectively in real-life situations, as well as in class. our award-winning teaching methods are unique in the industry! All our Canadian English schools are members of Languages Canada so you can be sure of the highest level of academic quality.
Our teaching materials are produced in collaboration with National Geographic Learning so in our English programs, students learn about their world by experiencing it. Our English lessons cover a wide range of themes over the learning process, including cultural topics and authentic settings . You’ll discuss topics that matter in the real world and develop your analytical prowess!
Our English classes are taught by qualified teachers and supported by our fantastic staff! The entire team at EC Toronto is there to give you the best possible experience. We know there are no ‘average students’, each student needs individual attention. That’s why we provide feedback to help you and keep you focused on your learning journey. Work hard and you will see your language level improve!
We can help you prepare for your English tests or university program, improve your Business English, or any future endeavour where English ability is essential.
We offer a range of language programs at EC Toronto. If you are looking for Intensive full-time programs, our General English 30 course is 22.5 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Our General English Semi-Intensive programs are General English 24 (18 hours per week) and General English 26 (19.5 hours per week). You can also combine any course with a One-to-One private class. Each class is 60 minutes and you can book as many as you want on during your stay to further boost your language skills.
In addition to our General English programme, EC Toronto offers a range of special courses to help you improve your English to succeed at school and in the global workplace. These include English for Work, an intensive English course that helps you develop the English skills you need to advance in your career; and a variety exam preparation courses d for IELTS, TOEFL or TOEIC exams.
Take a General English course of 24, 26 or 30 lessons per week at our language school, your choice includes Special Focus classes where you can choose dynamic classes tailored to your learning goals. A skills class allows you to personalise your learning process and focus on the areas most important to you.
On our English education programs at EC Toronto, you can choose from homestay or shared student residence accommodation. Living in a homestay is a great way to experience real people, local culture, and everyday English conversations over home-cooked meals. Independent students may prefer a shared residence or apartment with international students, which offers more freedom along with modern amenities for student comfort.
Toronto has a continental climate with warm, humid summers and cold winters. Toronto’s weather is influenced by its location on the shores of Lake Ontario, making it cooler in the summer and warmer in winter than other Canadian cities. That said, winters can still be very cold, and there may be snow any time between December and March.
Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to study in Toronto—but in general, Canadian visa programs are free of excessive red tape. Contact us to learn more.
Join an English study program in Toronto and explore one of Canada’s most exciting cities!
Canadians are the some of the nicest people in the world and Toronto is one of North America’s most exciting cities! It’s an excellent location to begin your English learning journey. Our English school offers dynamic classes, a wide range of English courses, and flexible programs for every English level. Whether you’re just starting or looking to join an advanced level, you’ll build your English skills with the support of qualified teachers and a fantastic academic team. With small class sizes and engaging speaking programs, you’ll improve quickly in an educational environment designed for success. Meet international students, relax in the student lounge, and connect with real people and the nicest team around.
Outside the classroom, enjoy a full social programme with exciting activities and cultural events. From affordable trips to Niagara Falls and weekend visits to around Ontario, to fun-filled day trips exploring Old Toronto or the Distillery District, there’s always something happening. Toronto combines top-quality English study programs with unforgettable cultural experiences—making it the ideal city to live, learn, and grow. You will have an amazing time learning English in Toronto.
