Fair prices in Canada — what things really cost

A brewed coffee is cheap, while a cappuccino or specialty drink at an independent cafe costs a little more. Toronto has a strong local coffee scene, and a neighbourhood cafe is better value than a tower-side tourist spot.

A main course at a mid-range restaurant is normal big-city value, and Toronto's incredible range of immigrant cuisines — Chinese, Italian, Greek, Middle Eastern, Caribbean — is where the real value and flavour are. Note that tax and a 15–20% tip are added on top of menu prices.

The best cheap eats are at St Lawrence Market, Kensington Market and the ethnic neighbourhoods, where a filling lunch costs only a few dollars. Far better value and more interesting than the chain restaurants around the main attractions.

One flat fare covers the subway, streetcars and buses with free transfers for two hours, one of the best transit deals of any big city. Tap a contactless card or buy a PRESTO card; a day pass pays off if you make more than three trips.

The UP Express train links Pearson airport with downtown Union Station in about 25 minutes for around C$12 (cheaper with a PRESTO card). Faster and far cheaper than a taxi, it is the best value way in from the airport.

A licensed taxi or rideshare from Pearson to downtown runs about C$50–60 plus tip. Only use the official taxi rank or the rideshare pickup area, agree it is metered or a set airport rate, and consider the UP Express train instead for a fraction of the price.

General admission starts around C$25 if you book online in advance, with the SkyPod and EdgeWalk costing extra. If you plan to see several big attractions, the CityPASS bundle can save a good amount over buying tickets separately.