Old Toronto Self Guided Walking Tour

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1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

Step into the heart of Toronto and experience the city like never before on this self guided immersive walking tour that blends history, architecture, public art, and storytelling.

This tour isn’t just about landmarks—it’s about the stories behind them. From hidden symbols in sculptures to dramatic moments in Toronto’s past, you’ll uncover the people, events, and decisions that shaped Canada’s largest city.

What makes this tour truly special is its storytelling approach. Instead of overwhelming you with facts, each stop brings history to life through engaging narratives.

Along the way, you’ll explore iconic sites like the CN Tower, St. Lawrence Market, and Nathan Phillips Square, while also discovering lesser-known gems and meaningful public art that most visitors walk right past.

Perfect for first-time visitors and locals alike, this tour offers a deeper, more human look at Toronto—one story at a time.

What's Included

Listen again later and keep the memories
Explore Old Toronto and see the sites and hear the stories
Go at your own pace, anytime. The tour never expires.
Fun narration and fun stories
Self Guided walking tour of Old Toronto on our Walking Tour app
No human guide, this is a self guided tour on our walking tour app
No Admission Hockey Hall of Fame or other buildings, the tour only stops outside.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

The tour starts infront of the Toronto Old City Hall, at teh Cenotaph, the big statue in front. You'll hear the history of it then be guided through Toronto.

End point
The Cathedral Church of St. James

The tour ends at the The Cathedral Church of St. James, which is also very close to the market where you'll have a chance to explore.

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Nathan Phillips Square

    You'll walk through Nathan Phillips Square, hear it's story and see the art and sculptures there.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Begin your journey at Toronto’s historic Old City Hall, standing before the solemn Cenotaph. Unveiled in 1925, this monument honors soldiers lost in World War I and later conflicts. Each year, it becomes the heart of Remembrance Day ceremonies. Behind it rises Old City Hall, a Romanesque Revival landmark completed in 1899 that once served as the center of Toronto’s government and still symbolizes the city’s early ambitions.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 3

    This moving monument honors Italian-Canadian soldiers who fought in World War II while their families faced discrimination at home. Nearby, the Winston Churchill statue reflects a more traditional style of remembrance, symbolizing leadership and the Allied fight for freedom. Together, they show two sides of history—one personal, one global.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4

    This powerful collection of sculptures explores justice and human rights. “Equal Before the Law” features a lion and lamb balanced together, symbolizing equality under the Canadian Charter. Nearby works like “Access to Justice” and the Frederick G. Gans Memorial reflect the ongoing evolution of fairness, accessibility, and human rights in Canada’s legal system.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Built in 1910, this monument commemorates Canada’s first overseas military involvement. Designed by Walter Allward, it reflects Canada’s early identity within the British Empire and evolving perspectives on war and remembrance.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 6

    This statue honors the man who helped bring affordable public electricity to Ontario. His vision of “power at cost” transformed everyday life and helped fuel the province’s growth in the early 20th century.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 7

    Canada’s Walk of Fame celebrates national icons from entertainment, sports, and beyond.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 8
    David Pecaut Square

    This lively urban square blends public art and civic life. The whimsical “Remembered Sustenance” sculpture invites reflection on memory, nourishment, and community through playful, interactive forms.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • CN Tower (Pass by)

    You'll stand outside and look up at the CN Tower and hear it's story.

    Admission ticket free
  • 9

    “The Audience” sculpture humorously celebrates spectators rather than performers.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 10

    This sculpture reflects Canada’s official embrace of multiculturalism. Located near the city’s main transit hub, it symbolizes the arrival and integration of diverse communities that shaped modern Toronto.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 11

    Installed in 2024, this charging bull represents Toronto’s rise as a global financial center. Inspired by New York’s Wall Street bull, it symbolizes economic strength and optimism.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • Hockey Hall of Fame (Pass by)

    Housed in a former bank building, this museum celebrates Canada’s national sport. Highlights include the Stanley Cup and interactive exhibits—plus rumored ghost sightings from its banking past.

    Admission ticket free
  • 12
    Berczy Park

    A charming urban park featuring a playful dog fountain and public art. It reflects Toronto’s modern approach to designing welcoming, community-focused public spaces.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 13
    St. Lawrence Market

    A historic market dating back to the early 1800s, once home to Toronto’s city hall. Today it’s a vibrant food destination known for local specialties like the peameal bacon sandwich.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 14
    The Cathedral Church Of St. James

    This stunning Gothic Revival cathedral has stood since the 1850s. Its towering spire, stained glass, and historic role as a hospital during crises make it a powerful final stop on your journey.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Supplied by WalknTours
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Tags

Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Audio Guides
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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