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Why Toronto Is the Perfect City for Slow Travel

September 2, 2026

View of the CN tower from a green city park.

Source: Unsplash

People often measure travel by how much they can fit into a trip. They want to check off all the sights on their list, snap photos at every highly recommended restaurant, and squeeze as many experiences as possible into a limited schedule. However, that pressure to see everything often leads to missing the smaller moments that make a city memorable. Slow travel, or slow tourism, is about stepping away from quality and volume and moving toward fewer and more meaningful experiences.

Although slow travel has long been a concept, it’s become particularly popular due to financial pressures, increased burnout, and a greater desire for meaning. While the world around us speeds up, many of us are looking for ways to slow down and make our time away feel like a chance to genuinely connect with the places we visit.

In this blog post, we’ll show you why Toronto is a city best experienced slowly and how the right accommodation can make it easier to settle in.

Exploring Every Neighborhood

The city is made up of dozens of distinct neighbourhoods, each with its own atmosphere, local character, and history. That means a morning spent in Leslieville can feel worlds away from an afternoon in The Annex, despite them being a 20-minute drive away from each other. With over 140 distinct areas to wander through, Toronto’s identity is spread across the streets and communities that tell the city’s complete story. 

In Roncesvalles, you’ll find a series of cafés, local boutiques, bakeries, and nearby green spaces like High Park. It’s the kind of neighbourhood where taking your time is part of the experience. Along the Danforth, visitors can check out one of the city’s most recognizable cultural districts. Greek tavernas and several landmarks welcome visitors to take in the area’s street life and architecture at a relaxed pace. The Beaches features its iconic boardwalk, lake views, and beach volleyball courts, ideal for travellers who want their itinerary to include time for sitting and walking.

Choosing Local Experiences

Person smiling at a camera in a bookstore.

Source: Unsplash

While slow travel is about extending the time you spend in fewer places, it’s also about changing how you spend that time. Rather than build a complete itinerary around Toronto’s most recognizable attractions, visitors can spend time in places where communities gather and function beyond the tourist highlights.

Need some inspiration?

Seeing Toronto on Foot

Plenty of people own and drive cars in Toronto, but the city’s extensive transit system and walkable streets encourage visitors to enjoy the journey between places. Walking leaves room for spontaneity, allowing you to see spaces and shops that were never part of the itinerary. 

The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) operates streetcars, buses, and subways throughout the city that connect all of Toronto’s neighbourhoods, while still leaving room to discover places along the way. Visitors can purchase a PRESTO card or simply tap their debit or credit card when boarding, with a two-hour transfer window that lets you switch between TTC services without paying again.

Keep Toronto on Your Doorstep

Architectural details and windows at the AGO.

Source: Unsplash

Toronto is a place worth coming back to, and slow travel changes the way visitors think about returning to a destination. Instead of setting your sights on the next best thing, you can leave the city knowing there are still restaurants to try and local experiences waiting for next time. 

Toronto rewards repeat visits and longer stays because there’s always more to uncover. Returning visitors can revisit familiar favourites while continuing to find new places that reveal another layer of the city. And when a trip is built around taking your time, where you stay becomes part of the experience, not just a place to return to at the end of the day.

DelSuites Suite @ Ten York

When you’re staying in the city for more than a few nights, DelSuites is the best way to get the familiarity of home and the conveniences of hotel-style services. With decades of property management experience, we offer modern stays in well-connected residential communities throughout the GTA, supported by thoughtful details like bi-weekly cleaning, 24-hour building security, and in-suite essentials.

With 16 locations across the GTA, including Downtown Toronto, Midtown, North York, Mississauga, and Etobicoke, guests can choose a home base that matches their plans. Our suites make it easier to embrace slow travel, supporting guests who want to create a routine, feel at home, and have a more authentic day-to-day experience in Toronto.

Ready to explore our suites?

Business Travel, Family Vacations in Toronto, Lifestyle talk, Relocation, Toronto Family Travel

Top 10 Things to do Before Leaving on Vacation

August 26, 2026

Organization is the key to travel success. When your schedule involves frequent business trips, having a set plan will ease the frantic pace that can be an unwelcome part of the journey. While you know that a short term rentals Toronto has been the secret to a smooth and seamless stay during your travels, it’s sometimes a little more challenging to have peace of mind that you’ve left everything at home in working order. Here are 10 quick and easy things to do before leaving on vacation that will help keep you on track the next time you head out the door. By using this checklist as a starting point, you won’t have the feeling as though you’ve left something (or someone) behind.

Keep An Emergency Folder

Include a copy of your flight or train itinerary, the address and contact information of the furnished apartment at your destination and personal information such as your credit card and passport. Having these resources available at your office and home not only ensures that your colleagues and family members will be able to reach you if needed, but that you’ll be able to have access to the information you need should you lose something during your travels.

Keep Your Neighbours In The Loop

Ensure that one or two of your closest neighbours are aware of your departure dates as well as when you’ll be returning. Keeping neighbours in the loop means they’ll have a watchful eye on your home should any unusual activity occur. Arrange to have a close friend or family member check in on your home while you’re away, collecting any mail and double checking that your home is in order – just be sure your neighbours are aware that someone will be stopping by.

Forward Your Phone Calls and Emails

Have your home phone number forwarded to your mobile device. This will ensure that you’ll be available, and give the impression that you’re in the area to prevent your home from being compromised.

Organize Pet Care

Whether you’re having someone come into your home to pet sit or bringing your pup to a kennel, it’s important to have the arrangements made well in advance. Along with keeping additional pet food and treats available, you may want to purchase a new toy or two for the caregiver to give to your pet. During the first few days you’re away it may be a difficult adjustment period for your pet and a surprise may be a good distraction.

Rearrange plants

Keep your plants in a sink during the time you’re traveling will not only make it easier for the person who is watching your home to water, but it will also ensure they don’t forget to keep plants well hydrated.

Reduce Your Electricity Ouput

Turn off any electronics and unplug small appliances such as your blender or coffee maker to help reduce your home energy consumption.

Clean Your Kitchen

From the fridge to the compost to the dishwasher, clean your culinary space from top to bottom. Freeze any leftovers, pitch the perishables and make a list of what you’ll need when you return. While it may be a bit of a chore to do before you leave, you’ll be happy you did once you’ve returned from your travels.

Refill Prescriptions

Even if you’re mid-way through your current prescriptions, having refills in your carry on is essential. You’ll be happy you did if your luggage containing medication gets delayed, or worse – lost.

Hire Outdoor Maintenance Help

Keeping freshly cut grass or a shovelled driveway is a good indication that people are home. Hiring someone to do your yard work while you’re away will help you keep up the appearance and illusion that the house isn’t vacant.

Keep DelSuites’ top ten things to do before leaving on vacation in mind and we know you’ll have a stress and worry free trip. Happy travels!

Are you looking for a short-term condo rental in Toronto for a vacation?

Be sure to see our furnished downtown Toronto condo rentals here.

Family Vacations in Toronto, Lifestyle talk, Our Blog, Toronto Entertainment, toronto toursim, Vacation Travel

Things to Do in Toronto This Summer, According to Your Mood

August 5, 2026

Colourful kayaks by the shoreline.

Source: Unsplash

Some cities have one idea of a perfect summer day. Toronto doesn’t.

On any given summer day, you can ask yourself, “What do I feel like doing today?” and make it happen.

Toronto makes it both easy and difficult to figure out an itinerary. With so many possibilities, the challenge is choosing between the multitude of things to do. And regardless of what kind of day you want to have, the city has a way of delivering. One moment you could wander through markets with an iced coffee in hand, the next be on a hiking trail, and then find yourself on a waterfront patio watching the boats go by. Toronto’s unique ability to offer a completely different experience every day is why many visitors choose an extended stay—we’ll talk later about how DelSuites gives guests the flexibility to experience the city beyond a quick getaway.

Need a little inspiration for a summer day in Toronto? Here are a few ways you might want to spend one, depending on your mood.

If You’re Seeking a Slow, Relaxing Day

Ditching the packed itinerary and looking to enjoy the weather?

Morning: Start slow

Grab coffee at a local café like Botanic Coffee and Caphe or Le Bleu Coffee for pastries and creative drinks, and head to an active farmers market to stroll the stalls. Then, travel to a neighbourhood you’re unfamiliar with and see what you may be missing.

Afternoon: Spend time outdoors

Pack a delicious picnic for one of Toronto’s green parks, find a quiet spot at the waterfront, or take the ferry to the Toronto Islands. Some popular waterfront spots include the Toronto Music Garden and Sugar Beach.

Evening: Time to unwind

Book a spa or wellness experience at the Sweetgrass Spa or Spa at the Old Mill and enjoy a pampering and dining package. Alternatively, enjoy a sunset walk at Sunnyside or Humber Bay.

If You’re Feeling Adventurous

A quiet moment at the Scarborough Bluffs.

Source: Unsplash

Prefer a little more action?

Morning: Follow your curiosity

Kickstart your day with a change of scenery. Toronto is home to the Scarborough Bluffs, Toronto Islands, and Rouge National Urban Park, which let you feel far away without the long drive.

Afternoon: Add a little action

Get moving by renting a kayak or paddleboard on the waterfront, hopping on a city bike and exploring the trails at Étienne Brûlé Park, or trying a new outdoor activity.

Evening: End the day somewhere memorable

After a full day of exploring, find somewhere to take in the city. Toronto is teeming with rooftop restaurants like the Writers Room Bar and Harriet’s Rooftop and rooftop patios like that at the Broadview Hotel.

If You Want a Classic Toronto Summer Day

Want a day filled with classic Toronto experiences?

Morning: Start with a Toronto staple

There’s a good reason why certain activities and landmarks become synonymous with a city. Some of the top things to do in Toronto every summer include checking out the CN Tower, strolling through St. Lawrence Market, and visiting one of the many museums and galleries throughout the city.

Afternoon: Spend time by the lake

Swap city streets for open water by paddling along Lake Ontario’s shoreline. Whether you’re kayaking past the harbour, trying stand-up paddleboarding, or sitting by the water watching sailboats and ferries pass, the waterfront offers a different perspective on the city.

Evening: Finish with a classic Toronto summer night

If there’s one happening during your visit, catch a Blue Jays game and experience the energy of a summer night at the newly renovated Rogers Centre. Grab a ballpark snack, watch the skyline light up around downtown, and join thousands of fans for one of the city’s most iconic warm-weather traditions.

If You Need a Break From the Hustle and Bustle

Peaceful panoramic shot of Elora.

Source: Unsplash

Looking to escape the city’s constant buzz for a few hours?

Morning: Hit the road

Get an early start and head out into the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Stroll through Downtown Unionville, visit Elora for some peace and quiet, or explore one of the lush provincial parks like Forks of the Credit or Bronte Creek.

Afternoon: Settle in for lunch or tea time

The GTA is full of hidden gems for fresh-baked treats and unique menus—you just have to seek them out. Why not make a pit stop at the Tin Roof Cafe in Erin or stop at a winery for a tour and a relaxing lunch? 

Evening: End the day somewhere memorable

Before heading back to Toronto, you can continue your time in the GTA. Get a taste of upscale dining at The Pine in Creemore or browse through local boutiques somewhere special.

End Every Toronto Day Somewhere Comfortable

Our example itineraries are only a glimpse of what’s possible in Toronto and the GTA, which means you’ll need more than a day or two to let your plans unfold. Rather than treating your Toronto trip like a checklist of attractions and must-sees, an extended stay lets you experience the city more intentionally.

DelSuites Suite @ The Livmore

DelSuites blends the comforts of home with the conveniences of a hotel, so guests can enjoy a longer-term stay without feeling like they’re simply passing through. With decades of property management experience, we’ve become an industry leader in our field. Our suites are located in top-notch residential communities within the GTA, complete with bi-weekly cleaning services, 24-hour building security, and other amenities and in-home essentials.

We’re located in 16 locations throughout the GTA, including Downtown, Etobicoke, Mississauga, and North York. That way, you can stay close to all the things you want to do in Toronto this summer.

Curious if our suites are the right fit for your stay? Explore our locations here.

Entertainment, Events, Lifestyle talk, Toronto Entertainment, Toronto Family Travel, toronto toursim, Uncategorized, Vacation Travel

The Insider’s Guide to Summer in Toronto (2026 Edition)

July 22, 2026

A panoramic view of the Toronto skyline and Lake Ontario

Source: Unsplash

The beauty of summers in Toronto is that they can look and feel however you want them to. You might find yourself kayaking on Lake Ontario in the morning, eating your way through a food festival in the afternoon, and spending your evening at a concert or nightclub. Without slowing down momentum, you can experience the city without missing a beat.

Toronto might seem like an unassuming summer destination compared to tropical escapes like Costa Rica or sun-soaked European cities like Barcelona, but summers in the city prove it has plenty to offer. With winter still a while off, visitors and locals are taking full advantage of the city’s constant buzz.

Our 2026 insider’s guide to summer in Toronto will help you plan your visit like someone who already knows the city inside and out.

Getting Around the City

A Toronto streetcar with a view of the CN tower in the background

Source: Unsplash

Toronto’s many public transit routes, rideshare options, and alternative ways to get around the city make it easy to get from A to B.

To get around the City of Toronto, hop on a relevant TTC bus, streetcar, or subway line. You can purchase a PRESTO card if you want a refillable card (and perks we’ll discuss later) or simply tap your debit or credit card on a reader. Alternatively, you can purchase a PRESTO day pass if you plan to be out and about. When you pay with PRESTO or a card, you won’t be charged another fare for transfers made within two hours of your first tap—just be sure to tap your card anyway for proof of payment.

Some other cities in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), including Mississauga and Brampton,  will have other dedicated systems and/or fare prices.

Other options for more convenience or flexibility include rideshare services like Uber or Lyft, local taxis, car rental services like Enterprise or Turo, or Bike Share stations found dotted around the city.

Festivals and Major Events

There’s always something big going on in Toronto, so you’re likely to run into crowds of people and long lines at some point. Summer is seen as the perfect time to experience the city at full energy, with festivals and major events such as:

Read our article on 8 Toronto Summer Festivals You Won’t Want to Miss for more information.

Food, Markets, and Summer Dining

The exterior of the St. Lawrence Market.

Source: Unsplash

Toronto is a rich mix of cultures, which is naturally reflected in the food as well.  Summer in Toronto calls for dining on patios, checking out markets, and spontaneous stops at food trucks and food festivals.

In the mood to discover trinkets and new flavours at a market? St. Lawrence Market is always a must-see staple, with its array of food merchants and artisans across two large floors. You’ll even find a Farmer’s Market and South Market with vintage goods to complement your foodie adventure. The Evergreen Brickworks hosts a farmers’ market every Saturday that introduces visitors to local Ontario farmers and producers. Other options include the vibrant STACKT Market for a more trendy feel or the Underground Night Market for $10 bites.

Food halls have also become mega popular in Toronto, perfect when everyone in your group is craving something different:

You’ll also find unassuming food courts and hubs such as:

  • The Village by the Grange (109 McCaul St.)
  • World Food Market (355 Yonge St.)
  • Hangout Street (181 Parliament)
  • The Liberty Village strip of restaurants is tucked away around 151 E Liberty St.

If your visit falls in July, the annual Summerlicious event is well worth participating in. Running from July 3 to 19, the event sees more than 240 restaurants serving specially priced three-course lunch and dinner menus.

Neighbourhoods and Local Experiences

An art installation featuring a peace sign covered in flowers at the Distillery District in Toronto.

Source: Unsplash

Summer makes it simple to move from one landmark to the next.

A PRESTO card can sometimes provide discounts on tickets to attractions, museums, and activities.

Despite being a metropolitan city, Toronto is also full of outdoor spaces ideal for picnics or a well-deserved break from sightseeing. Some include Casimir Gzowski Park by Lake Ontario, High Park, Trinity Bellwoods Park, Trillium Park, the Toronto Islands, the Scarborough Bluffs, and Woodbine Beach.

A street in a Toronto neighborhood at dusk.

Source: Unsplash

Toronto is also known for its neighbourhoods, each with plenty of personality:

  • Yorkville – Designer boutiques and high-end restaurants
  • King West – Lively and energetic with big-name clubs and bars
  • Chinatown – Authentic Asian cuisine and markets for fresh produce
  • Little Italy – Bustling area with European charm, Italian trattorias, and other trendy shops and eateries.
  • Leslieville – Indie shops and cafes

Nightlife and Evenings

Even after the sun sets, the fun doesn’t stop. Other than the typical pubs and clubs, here are a few other late-night activities and experiences.

Finding the Right Place to Stay For a Summer in Toronto

Delsuites @ 300 Front St W

The more you explore Toronto, the more it reveals. The city always has something unexpected waiting, and there’s more than meets the eye.

With so much to do in the summer in Toronto, a weekend often isn’t enough to take it all in. Short-term stays offer the flexibility to slow down and explore the city properly. For those planning a longer visit, DelSuites provides flexible, fully serviced stays in several top neighbourhoods, with the privacy and luxury of a residential condominium. Imagine stepping out and being within walking distance to top attractions, or direct transit connections across the city. That’s possible with DelSuites.

Explore our suite locations today!

Entertainment, Lifestyle talk, Toronto Entertainment, Toronto Family Travel, toronto toursim, Vacation Travel

8 Toronto Summer Festivals You Won’t Want to Miss

July 9, 2026

Photo from a crowd at the CNE of colourful tents and a ferris wheel.

Source: Unsplash

When the days start to get longer and the weather calls for more time outdoors, Toronto’s summer festivals turn the season into a busy calendar of arts, music, and cultural events. Across waterfront parks, downtown streets, lively neighborhoods, and other locales, visitors and locals flock to participate in and marvel at the celebrations, filling their summer with a little more energy. With live entertainment, global cuisine, and outdoor markets, summer is one of the best times to explore the city.

Set to spend some time in Toronto in the warmer months? You won’t want to miss these top 8 summer staples.

1. Beaches International Jazz Festival

The Beaches International Jazz Festival is one of Toronto’s longest-standing music festivals, beginning in 1989. The month-long festival is held yearly in the Beaches community and is one of the country’s largest free jazz festivals. You’ll get to enjoy concerts at various stages and listen to around 1000 artists throughout the span of the event, with past acts including Canadian favourites like the Downchild Blues Band and international stars like Grammy-winning drummer Larnell Lewis.

For a raw community experience, be sure to check out StreetFest, another part of the broader experience. The street festival features diverse bands, vendors, and food trucks that’ll keep the energy high.
Where: Woodbine Park, 1695 Queen St. E
When: July

2. Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)

Fondly known as “The Ex” to Toronto locals, the CNE is a highly anticipated annual tradition. People of all ages head to Exhibition Place to graze their way through the food court, soak up the adrenaline on the rides, find hard-to-beat deals on products, and bask in the atmosphere. The Canadian International Air Show is also a must-see, spotlighting aerial performances over Lake Ontario on Labour Day weekend. As it leads up to and includes Labour Day, it’s often seen as the best way to mark the end of the summer.

Tip: Bought tickets to a concert at RBC Ampitheatre? Use them to get free entry to The Ex on the same day.
Where: Exhibition Place, 100 Princes’ Blvd.
When: August/September

3. Toronto Pride Festival and Parade

People at the Toronto Pride Parade holding up a large Pride flag.

Source: Unsplash

Toronto’s queer community has much to be proud of, with a strong cultural presence, plenty of visibility and representation, and many inclusive nightlife and community spaces.  So, it’s no surprise that Toronto boasts Canada’s largest 2SLGBTQI+ festival and the second largest Pride in the world.

Pride Toronto aptly hosts events throughout Pride Month, starting with the City of Toronto flag raising at City Hall, and ending with a multi-day festival weekend packed with music performances, a street fair, and an incredible parade. 

Where: Church-Wellesley Village and beyond
When: June

4. Toronto Caribbean Carnival (Caribana)

Toronto’s summer festivals clearly feature many superlatives, and Caribana is another one of them. Officially known as the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, the event is North America’s largest cultural festival.  It was inspired by Trinidad’s pre-Lenten Carnival, and became a way to honor Caribbean roots through music, dance, and celebration.

 If you’re looking for dynamism, pool parties, and nightlife events, you’ll be certain to find it there. For the Caribbean community, Caribana is serious business. Attendees take dressing up to a whole new level and want to immerse themselves in the scene as much as possible. While plenty of events go on throughout the weeks, the most famous part of the festival is The Grand Parade.

Where: Exhibition Place/Lake Shore Boulevard West and various other venues
When: July/August

5. Toronto Waterfront Night Market

Ever wanted to wander the vibrant night markets in East Asia? The Toronto Waterfront Night Market is your chance to get a literal and figurative taste of diverse Asian culinary traditions. Designed to emulate the traditional night market concept, the festival offers a floating lantern experience, delicious eats, and nightly live entertainment and cultural performances.

Where: Hotel X/Exhibition Grounds
When: August

6. VELD Music Festival

VELD is where electronic music fans go for the quintessential EDM festival experience. Every year’s lineup features a range of up-and-coming artists, as well as big industry names like Galantis and deadmau5. Three featured stages deliver distinct experiences, from the pyrotechnics of the Mainstage to the raw, immersive atmosphere of the Sirkus Stage.

Beyond the music, you’ll find food vendors, creative activities, interactive art and brand activations, a Ferris wheel, and more.

Where: Downsview Park, 70 Canuck Ave.
When: July/August

7. Toronto Food Truck Festival

Karaage fried chicken topped with pickled veggies in individual paper bowls.

Source: Unsplash

The Toronto Food Truck Festival is hosted on the 28-acre Woodbine Park, leaving plenty of space for foodies to sample their way through the lineup. Whether you’re yearning for a tropical smoothie, in the mood for tacos, or looking for an adventurous fusion creation, there’s bound to be a truck to satisfy your craving. Whilst there, why not participate in a live-eating challenge or stick around to watch local talent?

Where: Woodbine Park, 1695 Queen St. E
When: July/August

8. FAN EXPO

Fan Expo hosts over 17 annual events across North America, including Toronto’s very own Fan Expo weekend. It’s a four-day weekend celebration where those into sci-fi, comics, anime, cosplay, and gaming come to gather and find community. Listen to celebrity guests, shop for hard-to-find comics, and check out the many booths. 

Where: Metro Toronto Convention Centre
When: August

Turn Festival Season Into a Longer Toronto Stay

DelSuites Suite @ 300 Front St.

A summer in Toronto doesn’t just feature festivals—it’s also brimming with other seasonal attractions like Summerlicious, patio dining, farmers’ markets, and must-see concerts. The beautiful weather and longer days also call for visiting landmarks like the St. Lawrence Market, the Distillery Historic District, Casa Loma, the Toronto Islands, and the many spaces that foster outdoor recreation.

With so much happening throughout the season, a weekend might not be enough to see all that Toronto has to offer. Many visitors opt for short-term stays to give them a comfortable base for exploring and experiencing the city. For those looking to stay a little longer, DelSuites delivers. Our suites combine the space of an apartment with the ease of hotel-style living. Designed with convenience and comfort in mind, they’re the ideal home away from home.

Browse all of our locations today to find your perfect stay!

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