Interning abroad is an incredible opportunity to gain international work experience, but the cost of living in a city like Toronto can be a challenge—especially if your internship is unpaid. To make the most of your time in one of Canada’s most exciting cities, follow these smart money-saving tips. From affordable grocery shopping to free attractions, these strategies will help you cut expenses while enjoying everything Toronto has to offer.
1. Be a Smart Grocery Shopper
Buying groceries and cooking at home is significantly cheaper than dining out. To maximize savings use the Flipp app to find digital coupons and weekly flyers. You can also shop at budget-friendly markets like Kensington Market and Chinatown for fresh, affordable produce. Look for grocery stores like No Frills, FreshCo, and the newly expanded Farm Boy, which offer lower prices than premium supermarkets.
2. Use Public Transport
Toronto’s public transit system (TTC) remains an economical and efficient way to get around the city. Instead of taxis or rideshares you can buy a PRESTO card for discounted fares on buses, streetcars, and subways or walk or bike when possible—Toronto continues to expand its pedestrian-friendly areas and bike lanes. We also recommend you take advantage of the new One Fare Program that allows seamless transfers between the TTC, GO Transit, and regional transit networks.
3. Explore Toronto’s Free Outdoor Attractions
You don’t have to spend money to enjoy Toronto. There are plenty of free parks, markets, and historic neighborhoods to explore:
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Walk through the Distillery Historic District for its charming Victorian-era architecture.
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Stroll along the Harbourfront Centre boardwalk and enjoy lakefront views.
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Visit High Park, the city’s largest green space, perfect for picnics and nature walks.
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Wander through St. Lawrence Market, which now has extended hours for more flexible visits.
4. Take Advantage of Free Museum Days & Student Discounts
Toronto is home to world-class museums, and many offer free admission days or student discounts. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) has free entry on Wednesdays after 6 PM while the Bata Shoe Museum offers free admission on Thursdays. The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) provides discounted admission on Friday afternoons and TIFF Lightbox now offers discounted indie film screenings on Mondays.
5. Attend Free Events & Festivals
Toronto is a hub for cultural events, many of which are completely free. Yonge-Dundas Square and Mel Lastman Square regularly host concerts and community events and the Canadian Opera Company offers free lunchtime performances. If you're visiting Toronto in the summer, then summer festivals like Taste of the Danforth and Toronto Jazz Festival feature live entertainment at no cost.
6. Pack Your Own Lunch and Snacks
Eating out frequently can drain your budget quickly. Save money by meal prepping for the week ahead, bringing a reusable water bottle and snacks to work, and choosing homemade coffee over expensive café options.
7. Save on Sightseeing with a Toronto CityPASS
If you plan to visit multiple attractions, a Toronto CityPASS can offer significant savings. It includes discounted admission to popular sites like:
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CN Tower
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Royal Ontario Museum
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Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada
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Toronto Zoo
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Ontario Science Centre
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Ferry access to the Toronto Islands.
Living in Toronto on a budget is completely doable with a bit of planning. By being mindful of your spending and taking advantage of the city’s free and low-cost activities, you’ll have more money for memorable experiences during your internship. Whether it’s exploring vibrant neighborhoods, taking in cultural events, or mastering Toronto’s transit system, you can make the most of your time without breaking the bank.