I have some friends visiting in May/June but first they are flying into Toronto and then going on to Niagara. They have asked if they would need a car in Toronto or is the public transporation good enough to take in the sights?

I would appreciate any help on this so I can pass on the information.

Many thanks

You can get around the main sights on public transport, but driving (once you get used to is) is probably more convenient for the more outlying things.

My mum and dad use public transport for sightseeing in Toronto / Niagara when they visit, but I guess they are old hands at it now and have figured out how to get where they want to go, and when its best to take a taxi or tourbus.

Its a major world city, public transport is well established, but navigating it could be a bit intimidating at first.

If they do get a car, parking can be expensive, although most hotels offer free parking for guests, the rest of Toronto is not so generous.

There is an excellent tram/street car and subway system for traveling around Downtown Toronto. They can buy cheap passes too rather than paying as you go.

If you're talking Toronto city, probably no need for car. What few "sights" exist are fairly accessible by public transport. Anything outside the city centre and a car will be a must.

Thanks everyone - I will pass the information on.

As already mentioned, the public transport is excellent here, indeed difficult to get lost. You did not mention where your friends are from?. Had an overseas visitor last year, who had a terrible time driving wondering why "we" had to drive differently than the rest of the world...still not sure what he meant??!!!. Anyway, he quickly returned the car.

If going to Niagara Falls for the first time, I would recommend a comprehensive tour as it would include many stops on the way that they might not do on their own, such as Niagara on the Lake. Hope they have a great time.

I would avoid a tour to Niagara and rent a car. IMO there are two excellent attractions; the Maid of the Mist, and the Cave of the Winds, and dozens of hellish rip offs. A tour operator is not going to focus on getting you to the fun and cheap attractions. Niagara on the Lake is quite nice in a desperately twee up itself kind of a way, something like Stratford Upon Avon.

In Toronto proper they won't need a car (unless they want to go to the zoo) but should make a point of staying somewhere downtown, the Novotel on the Esplanade is my usual suggestion.