About Me
From Local Streets to Hidden Gems Toronto Through My Eyes
Hey! I’m Ali Shah — a Toronto-based travel enthusiast who genuinely believes this city has more to offer than most people realize. This blog is my way of sharing everything I’ve discovered, one neighbourhood at a time.
I moved to Toronto a few years ago and, like most newcomers, I started with the usual spots — CN Tower, Kensington Market, Niagara Falls day trips. But the more I explored, the more I realized Toronto has layers that most tour guides don’t talk about.
So I started documenting everything. The best breakfast spots before a busy sightseeing day. The walking routes that actually make sense. The ferry timings nobody tells you about. The free things to do when you’re watching your budget.
Over time, what started as personal notes turned into a full blog — and now thousands of travellers and locals use it every month to plan their Toronto adventures.
I’ve personally visited every neighbourhood I write about. I don’t just copy-paste information — I walk the streets, talk to locals, try the food, and then tell you what’s actually worth your time.
Toronto City Tour is for anyone who wants to explore Toronto the right way — whether you’re visiting for the first time, you’ve just moved here, or you’ve lived here for years and want to rediscover the city.
Here’s what you’ll find on this site:
Neighbourhood guides — from downtown core to Scarborough, Etobicoke, and everything in between
Day trip ideas — perfect getaways within a few hours of the city
Budget travel tips — how to enjoy Toronto without spending a fortune
Seasonal guides — what to do in winter, summer, fall, and spring
Food and dining picks — where locals actually eat
Practical travel info — transit tips, parking, best times to visit popular spots
People often ask me, “Isn’t it boring writing about one city?” Honestly? No. Toronto changes constantly. New restaurants open. Old neighbourhoods transform. Hidden murals appear overnight. Festivals pop up every weekend in summer.
Every time I think I’ve covered everything, I find a laneway I’ve never walked down, a community garden nobody talks about, or a small family-run restaurant that’s been quietly serving amazing food for 30 years.
That’s what keeps me going — and that’s what I want to share with you.