Lounge - Outdoor Patio

Planning Your Trip

You could spend a weekend simply shopping in Toronto, but there are still some items you may wish to bring from home for your getaway. Your wardrobe will rely heavily on the time of year, but comfortable shoes are a must year-round.

One-Bedroom Corner Suite - Living Room
One-Bedroom Corner Suite - Living Room
What to Pack

Save room in your suitcase for a one-of-a-kind souvenir. A discerning shopper’s utopia — and with a favorable exchange rate — Toronto is full of shops offering uncommon objects and special finds. Insider favorites include Holt Renfrew, the legendary Canadian department store spotlighting international designers; the culinary paradise of historic St. Lawrence Market; and the Toronto Christmas Market in the charming Distillery District. For an only-in-Toronto experience, follow the trail of fashion stylists to West Queen West, the westernmost stretch of Queen Street, and Dundas Street West, just a few blocks north, for some of the best vintage shopping on the planet, found alongside artisanal dining, cutting-edge galleries and colorful street art.

Weekend Getaway

A weekend here can include catching a game at Rogers Centre, home of the Toronto Blue Jays, seeing a show at the Royal Alexandra Theatre or just exploring Toronto’s neighborhoods and many hiking trails.

  • Bring comfortable yet chic footwear to explore the city’s neighborhoods, from the Junction and the Distillery District to Summerhill and Queen Street West.

  • Theaters in Toronto don’t have a dress code, but well-dressed ticket holders are appreciated. If you plan on going to a show, consider packing a jacket (men) and an evening-appropriate dress or ensemble (women).

  • Swimsuits and sunglasses aren’t the first thing one thinks of for Canada, but when the weather is sunny and warm, do as the locals do and take full advantage.

Winter Getaway

Winter in Toronto is magical, and with the right clothes, a fantastic time of year to explore. Outdoor skating rinks and ski hills aren’t far, so pack to take advantage of the icy brilliance and snowbound peaks.

  • Bring sturdy snow boots that are fashionable enough to take on the streets of Queen Street West, named the second-coolest neighborhood in the world by Vogue, where galleries, boutiques and farm-to-table restaurants are plentiful.

  • Bring warm base layers that can be added or removed as needed, along with a warm down-filled coat and winter accessories; the weather can be windy, especially in the neighborhoods that border Lake Ontario.   

  • Even in winter, pack your swimsuit so you can unwind in the heavenly soaking tub or swim in the saltwater pool at Spa My Blend Clarins at The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto.

Summer Escape

Summer is the ideal time to explore Toronto’s neighborhoods, waterfront and parks. It can get a bit humid, but prepare for a wide range of possible temperatures from morning to evening.

  • Pack lightweight layers such as cotton tees and a light jacket in case the wind picks up off Lake Ontario or temperatures dip after sundown.

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes to navigate St. Lawrence Market in Toronto’s Old Town. Farmers have been selling produce here since 1803, but popular demand has brought bakeries and cheesemongers, too.

  • Don’t forget fitness gear such as yoga pants and running shoes. The city has activities for all levels, from running along the lakeshore to outdoor park gyms.    

Ritz Carlton Hotel image
Ritz Carlton Hotel image
What to Reserve

A romantic couple’s massage, Simplici’tea’ at LANO, the Toronto International Film Festival and a tasting in TOCA’s exclusive Cheese Cave are among the experiences you may want to reserve for your weekend getaway.

Kensington Market
Kensington Market
Itineraries

Set along Lake Ontario, Toronto is home to thriving communities that offer everything from the arts to artisanal cuisine. To make the most of your visit, the hotel’s experts have crafted itineraries that hit the highlights as well as hidden gems.