In cities, use extensive public transit: Toronto's TTC (subway, streetcars, buses), Ottawa's OC Transpo, and GO Transit for regional travel. Ride-hailing apps (Uber, Lyft) and taxis are widely available. Renting a car is ideal for exploring beyond cities (e.g., Niagara, Muskoka, provincial parks); major rental companies operate at airports. VIA Rail connects major cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Windsor. Popular navigation apps include Google Maps and Waze. In Toronto, the UP Express train links Pearson Airport to downtown in 25 minutes. Biking is popular in cities with bike-share programs (e.g., Bike Share Toronto).
Late May to early October offers warm, pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities, festivals (Toronto International Film Festival in September, Canada Day celebrations July 1), and Niagara Falls visits. Fall (September-October) features stunning foliage, especially in Algonquin Park. Winter (December-March) is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and winter festivals like Ottawa's Winterlude, but temperatures can drop below -20°C. Spring (April-May) is milder but can be rainy.
Ontario is culturally diverse and polite; a friendly, respectful demeanor is appreciated. Tipping is customary: 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and a few dollars for taxi drivers or hotel bellhops. Dress is generally casual but neat; upscale restaurants may require smart casual attire. Punctuality is valued. In social settings, a handshake is common. Respect Indigenous cultures and sites. Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces and near entrances. During winter, it's customary to remove wet boots when entering homes.
Ontario is generally very safe. In major cities like Toronto, exercise normal urban precautions: be aware of surroundings at night, avoid poorly lit areas, and secure valuables. Petty theft (e.g., from cars) can occur in tourist areas. Be cautious of common scams like overpriced taxi rides (use apps or meters) or fake charity collectors. Driving in winter requires extreme caution due to ice and snow; ensure your vehicle has winter tires. Wildlife (bears, moose) poses risks in provincial parks; follow park safety guidelines. Emergency services are reliable and responsive.
Healthcare is publicly funded for Canadian residents; travelers must have private travel health insurance. Hospitals are modern and well-equipped, especially in major cities like Toronto (UHN, Sunnybrook) and Ottawa. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine ones. In summer, protect against ticks (Lyme disease risk in wooded/grassy areas) and mosquitoes (West Nile virus). In winter, beware of frostbite and hypothermia. Pharmacies are widely available for minor ailments. Tap water is safe to drink. For COVID-19, follow current public health guidelines.
