There’s no denying that Vancouver and Toronto offer an irresistible blend of natural and urban allures. But other than that, they’re quite different cities.
Vancouver is a vibrant coastal city offering scenic views of the mountains and the sea. Toronto has its fair share of lush green pockets, but it’s more of a big, bustling city.
This is only one of the many considerations you need to think of. But getting to know both cities more will help you figure out which one suits you best. Keep reading, and you’ll find out why these two are so well-loved by tourists around the world!
Toronto
With lively ethnic enclaves, breathtaking natural wonders, and a zinging food scene, it’s easy to see why Toronto is such a well-visited city. There are so many reasons to fall in love with Toronto, making it hard to leave. But there are still plenty of reasons why it’s a must-visit destination.
What Makes Toronto Unique?
Get a Taste of Cuisines From Around the World
Toronto is a big melting pot of cultures, all represented in the city’s food scene. So a visit to the city feels like you’re on a tour across the world through your tastebuds!
With streets lined with restaurants both big and small, featuring a diverse mix of cuisines, you’ll get what you’re craving for. A food tour from Little Malta to Little Portugal and then to Little Tibet is possible in one afternoon. In fact, you can even find a Japanese, Belgian, and Peruvian restaurant within one block here!
More than the diversity, Toronto also offers various ways for you to get a taste of its food scene. Whatever your budget or preference may be, the city ensures that you’ll feel satisfied with your meal.
Grab a meal from a food truck or go for some upscale dining at restaurants by renowned chefs. Taste something new at a concept eatery where you’ll find food crafted with modern techniques and exciting flavors. Or simply dine at an authentic restaurant where you can get a taste of home!
These countless options are the best part of being a foodie in Toronto. And the hardest part about being a foodie in the city is choosing what to eat!
If you want all your options laid out in front of you, make your way to any of the city’s food festivals. This is the best way Toronto showcases the culinary masterminds it houses and also the sheer diversity in its food scene.
The Carassauga Festival of Cultures is one of the best food festivals to explore Toronto’s multicultural food scene. You’ll receive a passport, then have it stamped as you taste your way through 23 countries.
There’s also the Taste of Asia and Taste of Little Italy in June. In July, you can sample food at the Festival of India, the Lebanese Food Festival, and Festa Italiana. In August, you can help yourself to Caribbean delights at the Jerk Festival.
It’s Easy to Find a Lush Green Oasis
Despite being a bustling major city, Toronto loves its open green spaces. Head out for some outdoor fun, unwind, or simply marvel at Toronto’s natural beauty. With over 1500 parks in the city, you won’t have trouble finding a green oasis to serve as your serene retreat.
Toronto is home to a diverse mix of green spaces, so there’s a park that’ll fit everyone’s likes.
The Guild Park and Gardens is more than a scenic wonder, as it’s also a gem for history buffs. Its storied history includes being a training base, a military hospital, an estate for artisans, and more! And today, you can wander around the park to view architectural remnants and sculptures from the 19th and 20th centuries.
For the art lover in you, make your way to the Toronto Sculpture Garden. The park features contemporary sculptures from over 80 Canadian and international artists. The park encourages artistic experimentation within its space to promote sculptural art for the city!
If you’re seeking some outdoor adventure, you don’t have to leave the city. Hop on a ferry and head to the Toronto Islands, a group of 15 islands just off the coast.
This massive park covers an area of 820 acres (330 ha) and houses restaurants, beaches, amusement parks, and more. Have fun at the beach, bike around tree-lined streets, kayak through canals, and enjoy what nature has to offer here!
Immersing yourself isn’t hard to do in Toronto though. And if you want to indulge the outdoor enthusiast in you, Toronto is close to national parks. Canada’s great outdoors is only a short drive away from Toronto!
Among the best national parks near the city is Bruce Peninsula National Park. Go on a thrilling adventure as you trek through dramatic paths and cliffs here. Bruce is famous for two landmarks, The Grotto and The Singing Sands.
Another must-visit natural wonder near Toronto is Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park. This park takes you through various landscapes, from rough crops to wetlands, and more. Venture further into the park and you’ll find seashores, lakes, and wildlife.
Explore Toronto’s Can’t-Miss Landmarks
Big cities around the world have iconic landmarks that they’re known for, such as New York’s Statue of Liberty, London’s Big Ben, and more. The CN Tower is the icon of Toronto, but it’s not the only must-see sight in the city. With a mix of contemporary and historical attractions, walking around the city is a feast for your eyes.
No matter where you are in the city, you’ll always find the CN Tower in the backdrop. But this building is not only for pretty pictures, as it offers memorable experiences too.
Climb up to the tower and head to the observation level to get a panoramic view of the city. If you love a good thrill, you can walk on a see-through glass floor here! To complete the experience, you can dine at the restaurant here that offers a 360 view of beautiful Toronto.
If you’re a history buff, Casa Loma is one of the best historical landmarks in the city. You can explore the three floors of this 18th-century mansion, and its basement, and even go on a romantic stroll in the gardens. This mansion has also been the backdrop of many films due to its eerie looks.
But that doesn’t stop people from coming to Casa Loma, especially when it hosts exciting seasonal events. It offers thrilling Halloween experiences, turns into a winter wonderland, and more!
Some famous sites in Toronto serve as architectural wonders too. And if you’re familiar with New York’s Flatiron Building, Toronto has its counterpart. Make your way to St. Lawrence market and you’ll find the iconic Gooderham Building. With its distinct, triangular shape, this Gothic beauty is one of the most unique sights in the city.
Soak Up Its Fascinating and Creative Culture
One of the best things about Toronto is that there’s a multitude of ways to get to know the city! No matter when you visit, it’s bursting with attractions and events that showcase its diverse culture and creativity. With an eclectic and nonstop stream of activities, there’s something that’ll interest everyone here.
You can go around the city and feel like you’ve entered a different country at every turn. Toronto is home to almost all cultural groups in the world. And several neighborhoods center around international cultures.
From Chinatown to Little Tibet, Toronto boasts plenty of cultural neighborhoods. Get a feel of what it feels like to be in a different country, help yourself to their authentic cuisine, and more!
If you want to get to know Toronto through its art scene, the city is also renowned for its artistic prowess. You’ll get a feel of it through its many museums.
Toronto is home to great major art museums, such as the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Toronto Gallery of Inuit Arts. But you’ll also find countless small galleries sprinkled across Queen East, Ossington, and other areas.
You’ll also get a good view of Toronto’s art scene in its streets. Take a trip to Graffiti Alley, a street brimming with murals that showcase the amazing talent of the city’s street artists.
You’ll also feel Toronto’s creativity through its dazzling performance-arts scene. Head to the National Ballet of Canada or the Toronto Symphony Orchestra for some entertainment. If you’re a theater lover, Broadway shows regularly hit the city’s theaters!
Tying all these allures together is Toronto’s strong festival scene. Music, art, culture, and more, everything gets celebrated in a thrilling festival here!
When it comes to cultural events, Toronto has no shortage of them. There’s Taste of Little Italy, Festival of India, and Taste of the Danforth.
Festivals for the artistically inclined are aplenty too. There’s the Toronto International Film Festival, Toronto Jazz Festival, and Luminato.
Enjoy Its Varied and Electrifying Nightlife
Toronto likes to keep the fun going late into the night, so you’ll always have fun things to do when the sun sets. The city’s nightlife allures are as varied as it gets, attracting a diverse crowd as a result. With all that’s going on in Toronto at night, you wouldn’t want to end your day at dinnertime.
There’s nothing like capping off your day with a few drinks, and Toronto spoils you with options. Party Vegas-style at a lounge, dance the night away at a nightclub, or enjoy a glass of beer at a sports bar!
Going on a bar crawl is one of the city’s biggest draws if you’re feeling adventurous. More than that, marveling at Toronto’s twinkling skyline on a rooftop with a cocktail in hand is perfect for a calm night out. Or you can explore Toronto’s exciting craft beer scene, and there’s a spot in just about every neighborhood here.
Late-night fun in Toronto isn’t only about drinking though.
If you want to get a great view of the city at night, you can always visit the observation deck of CN Tower. But you can also go on a helicopter ride and hover above the city for a memorable experience. You can even visit Instagram-worthy spots on a guided tour of the historic Old Town.
If you want to get entertained, there are many options in Toronto too.
Watch a concert or a theater show at Elgin and Winter or the Princess of Wales Theatre. Get a good laugh at any of the city’s thrilling comedy clubs. Or watch an exciting baseball game at the Rogers Centre!
But if you’re a history buff, you can still find some exciting things to do in the city. You can go to a medieval-themed dinner theatre at the Medieval Times Dinner. Casa Loma, Toronto’s famous historic landmark, also welcomes visitors at night with seasonal events.
Looking for a different kind of thrill? Go on a spooky tour in the city with the Original Haunted Walk, Campus Secrets and Spectres, or Spirits of the Distillery!
Vancouver
Vancouver is a city that draws its beauty from its natural wonders and urban charm. With the best of both worlds, the city is jam-packed with fun things to do, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a city dweller. And because of its diverse allures, Vancouver does a great job of making tourists fall in love with the city.
What Makes Vancouver Unique?
A Gateway to Canada’s Great Outdoors
This charming coastal city is famous for many things, and being one with nature is one of those. Vancouver is a world-renowned, green-filled city that encourages you to go on an outdoor adventure! With massive, verdant lands meant for exploration, you’re never too far from nature here.
A visit to Stanley Park makes you forget that you’re in a bustling big city. This park has worldwide fame for its breathtaking scenery. Surrounding the park are glistening waters, within the park are woodsy trails and dense forests, and you’ll get views of the mountains here.
Due to this Stanley Park is the perfect spot for outdoor recreation. Complete the Sea Wall loop on a bike, hike through towering trees, and more!
If you want to get breathtaking views of the mountains, Queen Elizabeth Park is the perfect spot. This is the highest point in the city, and it’s also home to the Bloedel Conservatory. Here, you can check out various exotic plants and birds and have fun at the pitch-and-putt course.
A local favorite for year-round activities is John Hendry Park. Go fishing and swimming in the summer, take a scenic stroll in autumn, and have fun ice skating here in the winter!
Clearly, Vancouver has no shortage of gorgeous urban parks. But the surrounding mountainous area of Vancouver offers more sensational parks. And you’re only a short drive away from the scenic wilderness here!
Here are the beautiful natural playgrounds around Vancouver:
- Cypress Provincial Park: A famous ski resort that hosted the 2010 Olympic Winter Games. It’s a paradise for hikers and backcountry campers during the warmer months. Explore Mt. Strachan, Hollyburn Mountain, and Black Mountain!
- Mount Seymour Provincial Park: This park offers a stunning view of Vancouver and Fraser Valley. Hike through old-growth forests, colorful open meadows, and more. You’ll find pristine mountain lakes here, such as Elsay Lake.
- Grouse Mountain Regional Park: This is another exciting year-round playground. Enjoy hikes on steep trails, go snowboarding, and more. This park is famous for the challenging Grouse Grind Trail.
Dip Your Toes in Soft, Sandy Beaches
Blessed with mountainous wonderlands and verdant forests, nature’s beauty is everywhere in Vancouver. Completing the list of natural attractions in the city are the glistening waters of the Pacific. Vancouver, being on a peninsula, is home to a wealth of pristine beaches for you to enjoy!
With glistening waters around you, Vancouver tempts you to spend some time by the sea. It can be an action-packed day, like going for a swim or biking along the seaside trail. But it’s just as easy to go on a mellow beach day, sunbathing and watching boats sail away.
You’ll find no shortage of idyllic beaches in the city. But if there’s one beach you should visit, it’s Kitsilano Beach.
Kitsilano Beach is where all the summertime action takes place. Play tennis, basketball, or beach volleyball, swim laps in the outdoor saltwater pool, or grab some snacks at a beachside restaurant. Your furry friend can tag along too, as there’s a designated dog area here where you can splash around with them!
Thinking of getting a rush of adrenaline? Head to Jericho Beach for some exciting water sports! At the Jericho Sailing Centre, you can go windsurfing, skimboarding, sailing, and more.
A hidden beach here that is unlike any other is Wreck Beach. Sitting at the base of a cliff, you’ll have to go down hundreds of steps to reach the beach. This bohemian-vibe beach feels wilder as it’s the city’s only clothing-optional beach!
One of Canada’s Top Foodie Cities
When talking about Canada’s best foodie cities, Vancouver doesn’t fail to make an appearance. With top-notch food fests, restaurants, food trucks, and more, the city doesn’t fail to delight even the most discerning of foodies! There are tons of reasons to love Vancouver’s zinging food scene.
One is its sensational Asian food scene, as the city’s one of the best cities in the country for this. You can easily get a taste of Asian flavors in Vancouver. From Chinese to Malaysian to Filipino, your tastebuds can tour Asia here!
But Vancouver’s food scene isn’t limited to Asia, it takes you far and wide across the globe. Grab a plate of French escargots, tasty Italian pasta, and more! Wander around the city and you’ll find Portuguese, Greek, Ukrainian, and other European cuisines right around the corner.
Being on the west coast though, Vancouver is an exciting seafood paradise. With the bounty of the Pacific Ocean, it’s easy to get a taste of the fresh catch of the day here. From Dungeness crabs to halibut to ling cod, Vancouver offers an exciting seafood scene!
What’s more to Vancouver’s food scene is that you can enjoy it at every price point.
The city is a magnet for world-class chefs that offer impeccable cuisine across the city. Vancouver is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants for you to choose from.
On the other end of the spectrum, Vancouver has one of the best food-truck scenes in the country. Hundreds of food trucks dot the city, offering tasty and creative food. From Korean fried chicken sandwiches to Filipino sinigang fries, there are tons of tasty delights to discover on the streets!
Immerse Yourself in Its Vibrant Art Scene
Vancouver is a city that’s dedicated to art in all its forms. This, together with the creative minds it fosters, makes for a winning combination that makes the city a renowned art hub. From indigenous to contemporary to street art, you can marvel at art in all its varieties here.
An art tour of Vancouver starts at the heart of the downtown area. Here’s where you’ll find the Vancouver Art Gallery, the largest of its kind in the city.
Vancouver Art Gallery houses over 12000 diverse artworks. This includes historical masterpieces and contemporary artworks, as well as pop art by the famous Andy Warhol. This gallery also features photography by the likes of Henri Cartier-Bresson.
For a taste of indigenous art, check out the Museum of Anthropology. Check out the giant totem poles at the Great Hall and the weavings, masks, and other artifacts at the multiversity galleries. Marvel at cedar canoes, bentwood boxes, and more, on your tour here!
These two are only a glimpse of the fascinating art scene in Vancouver. With plenty more museums and galleries in the city, the culture vulture in you has plenty to discover.
But going around Vancouver feels like you’re in a big, outdoor museum already. With loads of public art and street art bringing color to the city, there’s much to marvel at outdoors.
The Vancouver Biennale is a biannual public art exhibition that installs art in the city’s open spaces. Visit any neighborhood and chances are, you’ll easily find sculptures of this initiative!
Even on a gloomy day, Vancouver’s streets are vibrant thanks to its collection of murals.
The neighborhoods of Strathcona, Railtown, and Gastown are dense with street art. The River District’s murals are so close together that it’s easy to view them all in one afternoon. Even the city’s once-dull parking lots are full of colorful art!
Vancouver’s dedication to this art form goes as far as celebrating street art through a festival. The Vancouver Mural Festival has been brightening up the city’s streets with art since 2016.
The host of this exciting celebration is the Mount Pleasant neighborhood. So you can expect Mount Pleasant to be incredibly adorned with murals. But this fest has extended to other parts of Vancouver, like the River District, West End, and Marpole!
Is Toronto or Vancouver Better?
The better city between Toronto and Vancouver depends on what your preferences are. These two have their strengths. And focusing on this will help you with your decision.
The main differences between these two cities are in their location and lifestyle.
Known to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Vancouver is a scenic natural beauty. Surrounded by the ocean and the mountains, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts!
Toronto also has its fair share of gorgeous green spaces, but they pale in comparison to Vancouver’s. Its relies more on its urban beauty, as it’s filled with stunning buildings and monuments.
The location of these two cities plays a big part in their lifestyle too.
Vancouver feels more laid-back, and it’s an outdoorsy and active city. Locals love to jog, cycle, and hike in and around the city.
And because of its mild climate, it’s a year-round playground. Go skiing or snowboarding in the nearby mountains in the winter. Or dip your toes in the city’s pristine beaches in the summer.
Meanwhile, Toronto is a much bigger, busier city with a fast-paced lifestyle. Toronto is Canada’s answer to New York, it’s the city that never sleeps! You have more things to do in Toronto than in Vancouver, from day to night.
With this, Vancouver is better for you if you’re an outdoor enthusiast or if you prefer the small city charm. You will feel much closer to nature here.
Choose Toronto if you love the feel of a big city. It’s also the top multicultural city in the country!
FAQ
Is Vancouver Safer Than Toronto?
Vancouver and Toronto are relatively safe for cities of their size, even when compared to the rest of the world. But in general, Vancouver is safer than Toronto.
This all boils down to the size of these cities. Toronto is a bigger city with a much larger population than Vancouver. Due to this, Toronto has more chance of crime, and it has a higher crime rate per capita compared to Vancouver.
Despite this, Toronto is still one of the safest cities in the world. Women, even solo women, should feel safe traveling to Toronto or Vancouver.
In either city, petty crime and pickpocketing do still happen. This is especially evident in popular tourist areas.
Like any other destination, you shouldn’t leave your belongings unattended in both cities. Keep an eye on your drinks when you’re going out drinking. Stick to well-visited areas, and try not to walk alone at night.
Another thing to consider is safety from natural disasters. Both Vancouver and Toronto are pretty safe from these.
In Vancouver, you may experience heavy rainfall, and it’s quite a rainy city. While in Toronto, you may experience snowstorms and heavy rainfall.
Crime Rate in Vancouver vs. Toronto
Both Vancouver and Toronto have low crime rates compared to other metropolitan cities around the world. But being the safer city, Vancouver has a lower crime rate than Toronto.
According to Numbeo’s data, Toronto has a crime index of 42.40. While Vancouver’s crime index is only 39.91. This brings down Toronto’s safety scale to 57.60. While Vancouver’s safety scale is 60.09.
Is Vancouver Cheaper or More Expensive Than Toronto?
Toronto and Vancouver are quite expensive cities. Although the difference is minimal, Vancouver is a cheaper city to visit than Toronto though.
The average daily cost when visiting Vancouver is 116 USD. While you’ll spend around 168 USD a day in Toronto. These prices include the essentials on your trip, and below is a breakdown of these.
A room for one person in Vancouver costs 72 USD and 71 USD in Toronto. But for a room for two, it’ll be around 144 USD in Vancouver and 142 USD in Toronto.
Getting around the city is pricier in Toronto, and it costs around 27 USD a day. In Vancouver, public transit is cheaper, costing around 10 USD daily.
A day’s worth of food costs around 26 USD in Vancouver. But you can spend 55 USD a day, on average, in Toronto for food.
Entertainment expenses for a day are around 30 USD in Vancouver and 26 USD in Toronto. These prices include tickets, shows, and other tourist activities.
Alcohol for a day is cheaper in Vancouver, costing around 13 USD. In Toronto, this costs around 18 USD a day.
Keep in mind that these expenses will depend on your spending habits.
Vancouver vs. Toronto Tourism
When it comes to tourism, Toronto beats Vancouver. Vancouver may be one of the most visited cities in Canada. But Toronto sees the most visitors among all Canadian cities.
It’s easy to see why this is, as Toronto is a big bustling city that has more attractions and more things to do than Vancouver.
With its interesting history and multicultural identity, Toronto has amenities like no other. With top-notch museums and art galleries, renowned restaurants, incredible hotels, and more, this city has it all.
Other than that, Toronto arguably has a more interesting history than Vancouver. With sites like the historic Old Town and Casa Loma, Toronto has tons of stories to tell.
More than that, Toronto offers easy access to Canada’s great outdoors. With big city charms and natural wonders, Toronto gives you a rounded experience.
But Vancouver is a tourist powerhouse as well. It’s also a multicultural city with a renowned diverse food scene.
There may be fewer things going on in Vancouver than in Toronto. But tourists love it for its small city charm, offering a more laid-back experience. Plus, it’s one of the most scenic cities in Canada, as it boasts both mountains and the ocean!
Vancouver vs. Toronto Weather
Vancouver enjoys mild weather year-round, with less extreme seasonal temperature changes. Meanwhile, Toronto is a city of extremes and it has drastic temperature fluctuations. It’s hotter, more humid, and colder than Vancouver.
Toronto can either be too hot or too cold. During summer, temperatures can reach around 78 F (26 C), and it can get very humid. And during winter, temperatures can reach some degrees below freezing.
Known for its freezing cold winters, Toronto experiences a ton of snowfall. Plus, the city gets wind chills and ice storms. But to many, these are part of what makes Toronto a winter wonderland, making it great for winter sports.
Vancouver doesn’t have these extremes. Because it’s a coastal city, it’s not too hot in the summer and it’s less humid than Toronto too.
During Vancouver’s colder months, it rarely has snow. But what it does have is a ton of rain. The city has around 165 rainy days per year!
Sunny Days – Vancouver vs. Toronto
Toronto is one of the sunniest cities in Canada, based on the total days of sunshine. The city has 305 sunny days per year. Meanwhile, the rainy city of Vancouver only has 290 sunny days each year.
Vancouver vs. Toronto Temperature
Toronto has more drastic temperature changes from season to season. Meanwhile, Vancouver enjoys less extreme temperature changes.
Toronto’s average annual temperature ranges from 17 to 78 F (-8.3 to 25.6 C). The city rarely experiences temperatures below 1 F (-17.2 C) or over 85 F (29.4 C).
Toronto’s warm season lasts from June to September. During these months, the average daily high is over 68 F (20 C).
The city’s cool season lasts from December to March. And the average daily high during this season is under 39 F (3.9 C).
Vancouver enjoys milder temperatures year-round. The city’s average annual temperature fluctuates between 35 to 73 F (1.7 to 22.7 C). And the temperature here rarely dips below 24 F (-4.4 C) or goes over 80 F (26.7 C).
Vancouver’s warm season also lasts from June to September. And the average daily high during this season is over 67 F (19.4 C).
Vancouver has a long cool season that lasts from November to March. The average daily high during this is under 48 F (8.9 C).
Is Vancouver Colder or Warmer Than Toronto?
Vancouver is both colder and warmer than Toronto. It’s warmer than Toronto during the winter season. And it’s cooler than Toronto during summertime.
If you want to take a closer look at this, below are the average temperatures in both cities based on the season.
In the summer, Vancouver experiences temperatures over 67 F (19.4 C). While Toronto’s temperature during this season is over 68 F (20 C). Keep in mind that Vancouver has dry summers, while Toronto is quite humid during this time.
During winter, Vancouver’s temperature is under 48 F (8.9 C). But in Toronto, temperatures can dip below 39 F (3.9 C). Toronto has lots of snowfall, and while Vancouver rarely has this, it rains a lot in the city.
Why Is Toronto Colder Than Vancouver?
Toronto is colder than Vancouver due to the location of these cities.
Vancouver is a coastal city, with the Pacific Ocean to its west. This large body of water beside the city acts as an insulator, keeping its climate mild. This is because the temperature of the ocean does not undergo extreme changes, whether it’s summer or winter.
The winds in Canada generally flow from the west to the east. So cool wind from the Pacific flows to Vancouver in the summer, and the warm wind goes to the city in the winter. This is why Vancouver has much milder weather than Toronto.
To add, Vancouver has mountains to act as a natural shield from cold winds. Thus, it doesn’t receive the freezing Arctic air.
Toronto doesn’t have a large body of water surrounding it. It doesn’t have warm winds from the ocean to keep it warm during winter. Instead, much of its weather comes from the land to the city’s west.
Toronto also doesn’t have a natural barrier to the Arctic air. Thus, cold Arctic air settles over the city.
This is why Toronto is colder than Vancouver in the winter and warmer than Vancouver during the summer.
Vancouver vs. Toronto for Nightlife
Being big, bustling cities, both Vancouver and Toronto boast vibrant nightlife. From various pubs and bars to music venues and other late-night activities, they can keep you busy well into the night.
If you’re a night owl though, Toronto is the city for you. Toronto is “the big city” in Canada, and it’s often likened to New York City in the US. As such, it’s the Canadian version of the city that never sleeps!
Toronto’s nightlife is more robust than Vancouver’s. With an incredible array of clubs and bars, music halls, sports venues, and more, there’s always something going on in this city.
In comparison, Vancouver’s nightlife is more relaxed and quieter. It’s better for those who like a more low-key nightlife.
Vancouver still has all the essential allures that you can expect from a city. With this, you’ll still have tons of nightlife spots here, though on a smaller scale.
Vancouver Aquarium vs. Toronto Aquarium
Vancouver and Toronto are home to some of the most popular and well-visited aquariums in Canada. And they’re top attractions within their cities too.
The Vancouver Aquarium is famous for the adorable sea otters it houses. But this aquarium has over 65000 different animals, so there are tons more to see here. From sea lions to dolphins to penguins, you’ll have tons of wildlife to see up close and personal here.
This aquarium is 8495 square meters big (91439 square ft), and it’s home to over 30 exhibit areas. Get a glimpse of ecosystems around the world as you go on a sea adventure to far-flung areas! In one area, you can tour the Arctic Ocean, South Africa, the Amazon Rainforest, and more!
Toronto’s aquarium is the Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada. And it’s managed by Ripley Entertainment.
This aquarium is newer and bigger than Vancouver’s, with an area of 12542 square meters (135000 square ft). Despite this, Toronto’s aquarium houses fewer animals, as its home to just around 20000 animals.
This aquarium has 10 galleries to showcase saltwater and freshwater ecosystems around the world. Many of them are interactive, and you can even pet sharks and rays here!
Distance From Toronto to Vancouver
The straight line distance between Toronto and Vancouver is 2084 miles (3354 km). But this distance only applies to air travel.
If you’re traveling between the two cities by land, the driving distance is longer. This is because you’d need to drive around bodies of water and through mountains.
The driving distance depends on your chosen route, but you can expect it to be over 2718 miles (4375 km).
Which Is Bigger – Toronto or Vancouver?
Toronto is a bigger city than Vancouver, both in land area and population. In fact, Toronto is the largest city in Canada. And Vancouver doesn’t even come close to this.
Toronto has a landmass of 243 square miles (630 square km). Meanwhile, Vancouver’s land size is only around 44 square miles (115 square km).
When it comes to population, Toronto edges out Vancouver still. According to City Population’s data, Toronto has an estimated population of 3 million. Meanwhile, their data shows that Vancouver has over 700000 residents.
Vancouver Population vs. Toronto
Toronto has a much bigger population than Vancouver. It’s no surprise, as Toronto is also a bigger city when it comes to its landmass.
Toronto is home to around 3 million people. The smaller city of Vancouver has a population of over 700000. These data are according to City Population’s statistics.
Rent in Vancouver vs. Toronto
Both Vancouver and Toronto have expensive housing rental prices. And despite being a busier, more populated city, Toronto has cheaper rents than Vancouver. This is likely due to the bigger competition in Vancouver’s market, as it has limited land for everyone.
According to Cost of Live’s data, the average house rent in Toronto is 2364 USD. In Vancouver, this costs around 2830 USD.
A one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Toronto is around 1818 USD and 2170 USD in Toronto. If you rent outside the city center, a one-bedroom is around 1371 in Toronto and 1658 in Vancouver.
What if you need more space?
A three-bedroom in the city center of Toronto costs around 2654 USD and 3344 USD in Vancouver. Renting outside the city center is cheaper. This will cost around 2215 USD in Toronto and 2362 in Vancouver.
The cheapest district to live in Vancouver is East Hastings. And to no surprise, the most expensive place in Vancouver is the downtown area.
This is more complicated in Toronto though. The Beaches area has the cheapest studios, while Runnymede has the cheapest one-bedrooms. East Danforth has the most affordable two bedrooms. Kensington is the cheapest for three bedrooms.
Vancouver vs. Toronto Film Industry
Vancouver and Toronto are among the best cities in Canada for filmmaking. Both cities share the nickname “Hollywood North”, a testament to their reputation in the industry.
Between the two though, Toronto is more favored. The city is always ready to shoot. It has the infrastructure, stages, facilities, and experienced crews.
Toronto also has a more mature filmmaking community. This is due to the city’s sheer size and its festivals, such as the Toronto International Film Festival.
To add, Toronto is also favored because of its American look. Thus, it acts as a double for New York City.
The film industry is also big in Vancouver. It can act as a double for many cities in the US too, especially those on the west coast.
When it comes to production, many can’t seem to agree which of these two has more. But generally speaking, Vancouver has more American productions. Meanwhile, Toronto has more Canadian productions.
How to Get to Vancouver From Toronto
You have several transportation options when traveling from Toronto to Vancouver. You can take a plane, bus, train, or drive to Vancouver.
A plane ride is one of the cheapest and fastest travel options you have. Plane ticket prices can range from 49 to 413 USD. And it’ll take around 5 to 6 hours of travel time to reach Vancouver on a plane.
You can also take the bus, although there’s usually only one bus that travels this route daily. Plus, they’re not direct buses. So you’ll need to switch buses or transportation along the way.
A bus ride from Toronto to Vancouver costs around 169 to over 500 USD. It takes around 71 hours of travel time too.
You can also ride a train from Toronto to Vancouver. And there are direct trains so you don’t have to make a switch along the way. Train ticket prices range from 400 to over 1000 USD, depending on the train class.
If you want more freedom on your journey, you can drive instead. This takes over 40 hours of driving time, and it depends on your chosen route. The estimated fuel cost for this trip is around 631 to 911 USD.
How Many Hours Is Vancouver From Toronto?
The travel time from Toronto to Vancouver depends on your chosen transportation.
A plane ride is the fastest, as it has a travel time of only around 5 hours. A bus ride takes longer as it has a travel time of 71 hours. A train ride is arguably the longest, as it will take you over 97 hours to reach Vancouver from Toronto.
Driving from Toronto to Vancouver has an estimated driving time of over 40 hours. But the actual travel time depends on how fast your drive or how many stops you take, to name a few.
Vancouver to Toronto Flight Path
The flight path from Vancouver to Toronto is East and 84 degrees from the North.
Vancouver to Toronto Distance via Flight
The distance from Vancouver to Toronto on a plane ride is around 2088 miles (3360 km).
Train From Toronto to Vancouver
A journey on a train from Toronto to Vancouver starts at Toronto Union Station and ends at Pacific Central Train Station. The train distance between these two cities is around 2741 miles (4411 km). And it takes over 97 hours to complete this trip.
The lowest train ticket price on this route costs around 400 USD. But this will depend on the train class you choose. You can either take Economy Class Seat, Sleeper Plus Class, or Prestige Class.
The cheapest month for train tickets on this route is February when the average prices go down to 371 USD. Tickets are most expensive in July when the average prices go up to 433 USD.
Usually, there is only one train traveling between the two cities daily. This train often leaves at 9:45 AM. This is a direct train, so you don’t have to worry about switching trains along the way.
The busiest day on this route is every Thursday. Not only do tickets sell fast during this day, but they also get pricier. If you want more space on the train or if you want better-priced deals, travel on a Monday instead, as it’s the least crowded day.
Train From Toronto to Vancouver Price
The cost of a one-way train ticket on this route usually starts at around 400 USD per person. But this will depend on the train class that you choose.
An Economy Class ticket with a reclining seat starts at 334 USD per person. A Sleeper Plus Class bunk starts at 835 USD. If you want more space, a Sleeper Plus Class bedroom or roomette starts at 1344 USD.
For the most luxurious experience, you can book a Prestige Class sleeper. But this comes at a high price tag that starts at 3504 USD per person.
Keep in mind that these fees vary depending on the time of the year. Tickets are more expensive from June to October. And they’re cheaper from January to May and November to December.
Sleeper Train From Vancouver to Toronto
A sleeper class is the most popular train class when traveling from Vancouver to Toronto. You’ll have sleeping berth choices here apart from other amenities. This includes meals at the restaurant car, a skyline lounge, and a park car lounge or dome at the end of the train.
For your sleeping berth, you can choose an upper or lower berth in an open-plan section. As the name suggests, these bunks are not in enclosed compartments. Instead, they’re seats that convert into bunks.
By day, the lower berth is a seat. And at night, you can put seats together, and place a mattress over them to form a bed. Meanwhile, the upper berth folds out of the wall.
Tickets for a Sleeper Plus Class berth start at 835 USD, with the lower berth being a bit more expensive.
If you want a room, you can go for the Sleeper Plus Class roomette or bedroom, which starts at 1344 USD. Because it’s in a fully enclosed and lockable compartment, this offers the privacy you need.
The bed is behind the seats, and you can hinge it down at night. But take note that this fills up much of the space in the roomette.
How Much Is the Sleeper Train From Toronto to Vancouver?
A sleeper train from Toronto to Vancouver depends on the train class that you choose.
Tickets for a Sleeper Plus Class bunk berth start at 835 USD. If you want a room, a Sleeper Plus Class roomette or bedroom starts at 1344 USD. The most luxurious one, the Prestige Class Sleeper, starts at 3504 USD.
Keep in mind that these ticket prices are per person, and it changes seasonally. Travel between January to May or November to December for the lowest ticket prices. Train tickets are the most expensive between the months of June and October.
Luxury Train From Vancouver to Toronto
VIA Rail has a luxury class called the Prestige Class Sleeper. Compared to other train classes, these offer modern-looking rooms. Plus, you’ll have access to the park car bar at the end of the train too, among other perks!
This option allows you to travel from Vancouver to Toronto in a luxury, hotel-standard bedroom. There’s a corner sofa in the room that you can convert into a double bed. There’s also an en suite toilet and shower here for your convenience.
In your room, you’ll have a massive window so you’ll get the best views of Canada’s great outdoors throughout your trip. There’s also a minibar and a flat-screen TV with lots of videos for you to choose from.
Like the Sleeper Plus Class, you’ll also have access to the restaurant car, the park car lounge, and the skyline lounge. But there’s a bullet lounge and a full-service bar that is exclusive only to Prestige Class passengers.
Luxury Train From Vancouver to Toronto Price
The ticket price of a Prestige Class Sleeper starts at 3054 USD per person.
How Far Is Vancouver From Toronto by Train?
The distance between Vancouver and Toronto is around 2741 miles (4411 km). This journey takes you from Pacific Central Train Station in Vancouver to Toronto Union Station.
Toronto to Vancouver Train Time
A train ride from Toronto to Vancouver takes around 97 hours. There is only one daily train on this route, and it leaves at 9:45 AM each day.
Vancouver to Toronto Train Schedule
There’s usually only one train departing from Vancouver to Toronto daily. This train departs at 3 PM each day.
Bus From Toronto to Vancouver
Unfortunately, there are no direct buses from Toronto to Vancouver. But you can still travel between the two cities on a bus. Catching a connecting bus between the two cities is easy as they’re available daily.
A bus ride from Toronto and Vancouver covers a distance of 2088 miles (3360 km). On average, it takes around 71 hours of travel time to complete this journey.
There is often only one bus that travels on this route daily. This bus leaves Toronto at around 1:00 PM. Sometimes, there’s another bus on this route, and this last bus leaves at around 8:15 AM.
The cheapest ticket price on this route costs around 127 USD. But on average, a train ticket on this trip costs around 139 USD.
The busiest day to travel on a bus between the two cities falls on a Wednesday. Tickets are likely to sell out fast on this day. More than that, it can get crowded on the bus on this day.
If you want more space on the bus, the least crowded day to travel is a Sunday. Because it’s less busy on this day, you may get cheaper ticket deals on this day.
Vancouver to Toronto Bus Ticket Price
A bus ticket from Vancouver to Toronto starts at 162 USD. Keep in mind that bus ticket prices change periodically.
With this, it’s best to check tickets online for a more accurate estimate. Other than that, booking your tickets in advance helps you get cheaper deals.
Drive From Vancouver to Toronto
You have two exciting route options when driving from Vancouver to Toronto. One option is to travel across Canada, and this is the most direct option. The other is to travel into the US before reaching Toronto!
If you don’t want to go through the hassle of leaving Canada, just take the Trans-Canada Highway from Vancouver. On this route, you’ll cover a distance of 2728 miles (4390 km). This route has an estimated driving time of around 45 hours.
This route will take you through plenty of interesting spots along the way. You’ll get a good view of the breathtaking Canadian outdoors on this journey. Some of the best stops along the way are Golden, Banff, Calgary, Regina, Winnipeg, and Thunder Bay!
If you love a good adventure, go on an exciting trip to the US! You’ll be traveling on Interstate 90 and Interstate 94 along the way. And this route takes you through ten American states along the way.
One of the best places to stop by on this route includes Yellowstone National Park, the oldest and most popular of its kind in the US. You can also stop at Rapid City or the vibrant city of Chicago!
Toronto to Vancouver Drive Cost
There are tons of factors to consider in the drive cost from Toronto to Vancouver. The type of car you use, the driving distance of your route, and the current gas prices are some of these. Other than fuel costs, you also have to consider car rental fees, if you’re renting, tolls, and accommodation costs.
At the time of writing, the fuel cost for a one-way trip from Toronto to Canada is around 414 to 506 USD. Keep in mind that this estimate assumes that you’re taking the Trans-Canada Highway route, not leaving the country.
If you choose to drive through the US on your trip, you can expect a higher fuel cost. The estimated fuel cost on this route is around 631 to 911 USD.
How Far Is Vancouver From Toronto by Car?
Vancouver’s distance from Toronto by car depends on the route you choose. You have a few route options on your trip. Below are three that take you through several US cities.
One option is traveling via Interstate 94 and Interstate 90 West. On this route, Vancouver is 2718 miles (4375 km) away.
You can also drive on Interstate 90 West. This route has a distance of 2697 miles (4341 km).
The last and shortest one is driving on Interstate 75 North, Interstate 94 West, and Interstate 90 West. On this route, you’ll cover a distance of 2722 miles (4324 km).
If you don’t want to leave Canada on your drive, you can simply take the Trans-Canada Highway. On this route, Vancouver is around 2722 miles (4380 km) away from Toronto.
How Many Days Drive From Toronto to Vancouver?
The travel time of your drive from Toronto to Vancouver will depend on a few factors. This will depend on how many stops you make, how long you stay on those stops, and more. But no matter which route you take, whether you travel to the US or stay within Canada, you can expect two days’ worth of nonstop driving.
It’s impossible to complete this journey within that time frame though, as you need to stay overnight somewhere. For most people, driving from Toronto to Vancouver takes at least 7 days.
How Many Hours From Toronto to Vancouver by Car?
Driving from Toronto to Vancouver takes at least 40 hours of driving time. With several route options on this journey, this will depend on the route you choose too.
If you drive through the US, you can expect a driving time of around 40 to 41 hours. Driving through Interstate 94 and Interstate 90 or Interstate 90 alone has a driving time of 40 hours. If you drive through Interstate 75, Interstate 94, and Interstate 90, expect a travel time of 41 hours.
If going through the US doesn’t interest you, you can also take the Trans-Canada Highway and stay within the country. This route has an estimated driving time of around 45 hours.
Driving From Toronto to Vancouver Through Canada
Taking the Canadian route when driving from Toronto to Vancouver takes you on an exciting scenic adventure. This route allows you to experience the natural beauty that Canada is famous for!
On this route, you’ll go through the Trans-Canada Highway for most of your drive. And there are tons of popular, must-visit spots along the way. If you don’t know where to go, here are some of the beautiful sites on this route.
Pukaskwa National Park is one of the first stops you can head to out of Toronto. This national park sits at Lake Superior’s northern shore. And it’s famous for its breathtaking forests, glistening lake waters, and interesting wildlife.
Isle Royal National Park is another natural wonder. With plenty of shipwrecks and small islands to discover, it’s a paradise for the adventurer in you.
Along the way, you’ll also visit two big cities. This includes Winnipeg, the capital city of Manitoba and Canada’s gateway to the west. Then there’s Calgary, the biggest city in Alberta.
After passing by Calgary, you can visit one of Canada’s greatest gems, Banff National Park. With striking turquoise lakes, picture-perfect mountain views, and more, you won’t want to miss this park!
Toronto to Vancouver Driving Route Through Canada
To drive to Vancouver from Toronto, head out north on Highway 400. Keep driving until you merge with the Trans-Canada Highway, which is near Nobel. You can go on a detour to Algonquin Provincial Park from here if you want to!
Then hop on Highway 17 North. The road will separate in Nipigon after 620 miles (998 km) but continue driving on Highway 17 and you’ll soon pass by Thunder Bay. From here, you can visit the Wabakimi Provincial Park if you wish.
Keep driving and you’ll soon be at the provincial border. Here, the road will become Trans-Canada Highway 1. Just drive along the highway as you drive through the entire length of the provinces of Manitoba and Alberta.
Here, you’ll pass by big cities like Winnipeg and Calgary. Some popular sites here include Riding Mountain National Park and the world-famous Banff National Park.
After this, you’ll reach Kamloops in BC as you continue your drive on Highway 1. From there, hop on Highway 5 South, passing by North Cascades National Park.
You’ll soon join Highway 1 again, and it’s a straightforward drive from there. Simply follow this and you’ll reach the city of Vancouver soon!
How Long to Drive From Toronto to Vancouver Through Canada?
The driving duration from Toronto to Vancouver route takes around 45 hours.
Driving From Toronto to Vancouver in Winter
Whether you’re driving through the US or staying in Canada, driving from Toronto to Vancouver in the winter is challenging. You need at least 7 days to complete this, and even then, you may still have to extend your trip.
On this trip, you have to drive slowly, especially when it snows. But the biggest concern is the icy road. Precipitation along with temperatures between 28 to 36 F (-2 to 2 C) are conditions for extremely slippery roads.
As much as possible, drive only during the daytime. But this is another tricky thing to achieve since you’ll get shorter daylight hours.
If you’re driving through Canada, you’ll have to cross British Columbia and Alberta. Going through these provinces in the winter is hard due to heavy snow or sudden weather changes. Winds and flying snow in the prairies are another concern.
The most direct route, Interstate 94 and Interstate 90 from Detroit to Seattle have their risks too. Weather conditions will change in a snap, especially across the Rockies and Cascades.
The best route to take is the Northern Highway 11 route through Ontario. This route gets less lake-effect snow and is a straightforward and flat road.
Toronto to Vancouver Road Trip Cost
It’s tricky to give an estimated road trip cost on your journey from Toronto to Vancouver. You have to consider toll fees, accommodation, meals, and more. And this all depends on your chosen route and preferences.
A large chunk of your expenses goes to fuel expenses though. And thankfully, it’s much easier to give an estimated cost for this.
According to Cost To Travel’s data, the fuel expense on a one-way drive from Toronto to Vancouver is around 414 to 506 USD. But this estimate assumes that you’ll be traveling within Canada on the Trans-Canada Highway route.
If you want to explore the US on your trip, expect a higher fuel cost. According to Rome2Rio’s data, taking any of the US routes on this trip will have a fuel cost of around 631 to 911 USD.
Cheapest Way to Get to Vancouver From Toronto
The cheapest way to travel from Toronto to Vancouver is also the fastest way, which is a plane ride. A plane ticket from Toronto to Vancouver ranges from 49 to 413 USD. And it takes only around 5 hours of travel time to reach your destination.
But plane tickets change periodically. So if the tickets are a bit pricey for you on your travel date, consider taking the bus instead.
A bus ticket from Toronto to Vancouver costs around 139 USD on average. The downside is its long travel time, as you’ll be on the road for at least 71 hours.
