Toronto's tourism sector experienced a significant boost this summer, fueled by a combination of major sporting events and a packed schedule of cultural activities. New data from Destination Toronto indicates that international visits from the United States and overseas increased by 17 per cent during May, June, and July compared to the previous year.
What drove the Toronto tourism sector growth?
The city's visitor economy benefited from a diverse range of attractions and events. According to Destination Toronto, the summer's success was supported by:
- Six FIFA World Cup matches hosted in the city.
- Over 45 major conferences and conventions.
- High-profile concerts featuring artists such as Bruno Mars and BTS.
- Various annual festivals and business events.
Kelly Jackson, vice-president of destination development at Destination Toronto, noted that the city saw a "real diversification" in the types of visitors arriving throughout the season.
How did international markets perform?
The impact of the FIFA World Cup was particularly evident in the surge of travelers from specific international regions. Compared to June 2025, visits from Germany rose by 59 per cent, while visits from the United Kingdom increased by 46 per cent. Travelers from the United States also saw a 19 per cent rise in attendance.
Domestic travel also showed strength, with visits increasing 25 per cent year over year. The Greater Toronto Hotel Association reported that revenue per available hotel room across the Greater Toronto Area rose 6.2 per cent through July. While demand was concentrated around match days, the overall trend pointed to a robust summer for the region.
FAQ
Which international markets saw the highest growth?
Germany saw the largest increase with a 59 per cent rise in visits, followed by the United Kingdom at 46 per cent.
Did domestic travel also increase?
Yes, domestic visits to the area grew by 25 per cent compared to the same period last year.
