Why Toronto Is the Best Honeymoon Spot for Urban Explorers

Overview

Urban adventure meets nature – Romantic rooftop dinners, skyline views, and ferry rides to the Toronto Islands make this city honeymoon unforgettable.
Best time to visit – Summer for patios and festivals, fall for crisp air and autumn colors, winter for skating and cozy speakeasies, and spring for cherry blossoms in High Park.
Easy international access – Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) offers direct flights from major U.S. hubs like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles.
Top Hotels & Resorts for couples – Luxury skyline views at InterContinental Toronto Centre, boutique charm at Kimpton Saint George, or budget-friendly convenience at Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre.
Unforgettable honeymoon activities – Brave the CN Tower EdgeWalk, take a ferry to the islands, wander Kensington Market, or explore the Distillery District by night.
Food & culture hub – From dumplings in Chinatown to cocktails in rooftop igloos, Toronto’s diverse dining and arts scene offers endless date-night options.
LGBTQ+ inclusive – Home to one of the world’s largest Pride events and a thriving queer scene in Church-Wellesley Village, Toronto is one of the most welcoming cities for LGBTQ+ honeymoons.

Why Honeymoon in Toronto?

If you’re the kind of couple who craves culture, skyline views, and a mix of city energy and nature escapes, Toronto brings the best of both worlds. This lakeside city buzzes with diversity, global cuisine, and a distinctly creative spirit. From romantic rooftop dinners to ferry rides to the islands, Toronto is a honeymoon destination that’s full of unforgettable moments. With IHG Hotels & Resorts’ portfolio comprising over 6,700 properties around the globe, you’ll find the perfect stay whether you’re dreaming of city luxury or cozy charm.

Toronto is a city made for exploring—together. You can wake up to skyline views, grab coffee in a historic neighborhood, and be at a beach or forest trail by noon. Whether you’re art lovers, foodies, or fans of a good street market, this city makes it easy to create a honeymoon that feels uniquely yours. Bonus: it’s incredibly walkable and public-transit friendly.

Also, where else can you go from dumplings in Chinatown to a sunset toast in a rooftop igloo—all in one day?

Weather in Toronto

Toronto experiences all four seasons, making it easy to match your honeymoon mood:

Summer (June–August): Warm days and lively patios. Great for festivals and ferry trips to the Toronto Islands.
Fall (September–October): Crisp air, vibrant fall colors, and cozy café dates.
Winter (November–February): Snowy charm, ideal for skating at Nathan Phillips Square or warming up with mulled wine in a speakeasy.
Spring (March–May): Cherry blossoms in High Park and that perfect jacket-weather sweet spot.

Getting to Toronto

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is Canada’s busiest airport, with direct flights from across the U.S. and beyond.

Sample flight costs (round-trip economy):

New York (JFK) to YYZ: $180–$320
Chicago (ORD) to YYZ: $190–$340
Los Angeles (LAX) to YYZ: $260–$420

Kimpton Saint George

Where to Stay: IHG Hotels & Resorts for Honeymooners

InterContinental Toronto Centre – Just steps from the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, and the scenic waterfront, the InterContinental puts you right in the heart of Toronto’s best sights. Inside, you’ll find spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling views of the skyline or lake, a full-service spa perfect for couples’ massages, and a tranquil indoor saltwater pool that feels like a hidden oasis. Rates from $300/night.

Kimpton Saint George – This boutique hotel blends modern elegance with quirky charm—think custom artwork, curated interiors, and that signature Kimpton warmth. There’s also a hip gastropub, The Fortunate Fox, located in the Kimpton Saint George Hotel which makes everything from scratch and has a large selection of beers. Nestled in The Annex, one of Toronto’s most beloved neighborhoods, you’ll be surrounded by indie bookstores, intimate wine bars, and hidden gem galleries. Rates from $280/night.

Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown Centre – Located just steps from Yonge-Dundas Square, the Eaton Centre, and Toronto’s subway line, it’s perfect for couples who want to explore the city without the extra taxi fees. Inside, you’ll find clean, modern rooms, a heated indoor pool, and Thirty Restaurant and Lounge—a beautiful contemporary restaurant with an open-concept layout great for quick breakfasts before heading out. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t feel like a compromise—ideal if you’re saving your splurge for date nights, spa days, or that must-have souvenir. Rates from $210/night.

Plus, the IHG One Rewards program is an easy way to earn points toward free nights. The program has lots of valuable perks, like 15% off award nights at new properties and a fourth night free on award stays for select IHG cardholders. You can join One Rewards for free with just a few clicks.

Things to Do on Your Toronto Honeymoon

Catch a Sunset from the CN Tower EdgeWalk
For the bold: walk the world’s highest full-circle hands-free platform. For the less bold: cocktails in the tower’s revolving restaurant.

Take a Ferry to the Toronto Islands
No cars, no noise—just you two, a picnic, and the skyline behind you.

Wander Kensington Market & Queen Street West
Street art, vintage shops, and some of the best eats in the city. The perfect neighborhood date day.

Visit the Distillery District at Night
Cobblestone streets, art galleries, and cozy bars. Even better in winter, when the lights and holiday markets feel straight out of a movie.

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Toronto is one of the most inclusive cities in the world, with a thriving LGBTQ+ scene centered in the Church-Wellesley Village. Pride Toronto is one of the largest on the planet, and queer-owned businesses are everywhere—from restaurants to wellness spots.

Final Thoughts

Toronto is the kind of city that invites you to do it your way. Chic hotel or artsy B&B? Street tacos or candlelit tasting menus? Gallery-hopping or island hopping? It’s all here—and it’s all accessible. Make sure to check out all the latest deals on IHG’s hotels as well!

Start your free Honeyfund registry registry today and let your loved ones help fund your Toronto honeymoon adventure.