Cosmopolitan culture, world-class shopping, sensational dining – Toronto is… Canada’s attempt to compete with New York

It is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Western world, full of life and vitality. So it’s no wonder Canadians consider Toronto their own version of New York.

The city’s British roots are still there, but with its gleaming skyscrapers, lakeside setting and sprawling financial district, it’s a destination that’s constantly reinventing itself.

So, even if you’ve been there before, now might be the time to plan a visit. You might be in for a big surprise.

FEEL PERSPECTIVE

While the iconic CN Tower has dominated the city’s skyline since the 1970s, it’s still the perfect place to start a tour.

At 550 meters high – although the super-fast lift to the top takes just 58 seconds – it offers spectacular views of the city and Lake Ontario.

Thrill seekers can do the EdgeWalk – where you walk around the open top of the tower, 116 floors above ground, in special suits and armour.

STREET CAR COOL

Toronto’s streetcars (above) are great for tourists because you can see a lot more from a streetcar than from a subway

One of Toronto’s selling points is its streetcar system (streetcars to you and me).

While most cities in Canada and the US dismantled their streetcar lines after World War II, Toronto invested in its network – and it’s made for tourists, because you can see a lot more from a streetcar than from a subway.

Trams run west to bohemian Queen Street West and east to The Beaches, a pretty neighborhood with a lakeside promenade.

INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

One of North America’s largest Chinatowns (above) is in Toronto

Home to one of North America’s largest Chinatowns, cosmopolitan Toronto has something for everyone.

Try Skylight, the W Toronto Hotel’s ninth floor restaurant-bar with great views. After a Violet Sky cocktail, you can order anything from a grilled whole Canadian lobster to a 22 oz cowboy steak.

Or check out Byblos in the entertainment district – a favorite of Hollywood stars during the Toronto International Film Festival in September. The Eastern Mediterranean-style restaurant is famous for its pides, Lebanese-style pizzas.

But if you want good pub grub, head to the Queen & Beaver Pub, which serves beers from around the world. “You’ve come a long way for a London Pride,” laughs the barman as I order a pint.

SARNIE TIME

Go to St. Lawrence Market (above) to browse the stalls selling meat, cheese, bread and salty snacks

If you are a foodie, St Lawrence Market is a must. The stalls sell a variety of meats, cheeses, breads and salty snacks, reflecting the city’s diverse ethnic mix.

A lunchtime favorite is a pea flour and bacon sandwich (unsmoked bacon rolled in cornmeal on a bun) made by an English immigrant in the 1850s. With a million Canadians of Ukrainian descent, the Pierogis (dumplings) stand is also busy.

Also visit the Kensington Market area – a Chopsticks and Forks walking tour is a great way to sample everything from Chilean empanadas to bagels with a Venezuelan-Jewish twist.

GO SHOPPING

Ossington Avenue pictured is considered one of the coolest streets in the world thanks to its eclectic mix of shops

The massive Eaton Center has more than 200 mainstream fashion brands, including Roots, the Canadian casual clothing chain. But for stylish boutiques, Yorkville is the place – home to luxury women’s clothing stores such as Kimina Fashion and 119 Corbo.

For something edgier, try Ossington Avenue, considered one of the coolest streets in the world – thanks to its eclectic mix of shops like Bang Bang, which sells ice cream sandwiches, and Melanie Auld Jewelry, which welds bracelets to your wrist.

FAMILY FAVORITE

A highlight of a teenager’s visit is probably Canada’s Wonderland theme park (above) with its monstrous roller coasters

Beautiful new attraction Little Canada gradually recreates the entire country in miniature.

You can see scale models of Niagara’s Horseshoe Falls, Ottawa’s State Houses and Quebec City.

A highlight of a teenager’s visit is probably Canada’s Wonderland theme park, with its monster roller coasters such as Leviathan and Yukon Striker.

LAUGH A LOT

A trip to one of the city’s two comedy bars (one downtown, the other in East Toronto) is sure to put a smile on your face.

They host over 150 sketch, improv and stand-up shows every month.

PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY

Leaving town, head to Sandbanks Provincial Park (above)

A popular destination for Torontonians looking to escape the city for a few days is Prince Edward County, a few hours’ drive east or a ride on the Via Rail (get off at Belleville, where you get a can rent a car).

Home to over 30 wineries, The County gives you the opportunity to experience a softer, quieter side of Canada.

After a visit to Sandbanks Provincial Park, enjoy lunch on the lakeside terrace in Wellington’s trendy Drake Devonshire. Then go wine tasting at Closson Chase Vineyards. And for dinner, head to Flame + Smith, where food is prepared over an open fireplace.

WHERE TO SLEEP

I stayed at the modern King Blue Hotel in Toronto’s entertainment district, which offers a double room from £183 plus tax (kingbluehotel.com).

A double room at the exclusive Bisha Hotel starts from £299 plus tax (bishahoteltoronto.com). Double rooms at The Waring House, Prince Edward County are from £108 per night plus tax (waringhouse.com).