Toronto Film Festival 2026: Everything you need to know before you go
Where to stay, what to explore and how to experience the festival
DUBAI – Every September, the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) transforms Toronto into one of the world's most vibrant cultural destinations.
For ten days, the Canadian city welcomes acclaimed filmmakers, Hollywood stars and cinema enthusiasts from across the globe for a packed programme of red carpet premieres, exclusive screenings and industry events. The excitement stretches well beyond the theatres, filling restaurants, cafés and bars with festival conversations, while celebrity sightings become a familiar part of the city's streets.
Whether visitors are attending world premieres or discovering emerging filmmakers, TIFF offers one of the film industry's most influential annual events alongside the chance to explore one of Canada's most dynamic cities.
Toronto International Film Festival
Since its launch in 1976, TIFF has grown into one of the largest publicly attended film festivals in the world, regularly attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. The festival has also established itself as a major stepping stone for awards season, with numerous Academy Award-winning films making either their North American or world premieres during the event.
The programme extends beyond film screenings, offering filmmaker talks, panel discussions, exhibitions and special events that provide audiences with a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process. These experiences bring film lovers closer to directors, actors and industry professionals behind some of the year's most anticipated productions.
City highlights
Away from the festival venues, Toronto provides plenty to discover between screenings. Visitors can browse the independent boutiques and galleries of Queen Street West, experience the historic charm of the Distillery District, sample the multicultural food scene in Kensington Market or enjoy luxury shopping in Yorkville. Each neighbourhood offers its own distinct atmosphere, adding to the city's appeal during the festival.
Toronto's best-known landmarks also remain within easy reach. The CN Tower, Royal Alexandra Theatre and Princess of Wales Theatre allow visitors to combine their festival schedule with some of the city's most recognisable attractions. Thanks to an efficient public transport system and a highly walkable downtown area, moving between screenings and sightseeing is straightforward.
Food is another major part of Toronto's appeal. Recognised as one of Canada's leading culinary destinations, the city offers an impressive mix of international cuisines alongside celebrated local restaurants. Visitors can also enjoy scenic waterfront walks, harbour cruises and ferry trips to the Toronto Islands for a quieter escape from the festival crowds. Art enthusiasts can further enrich their visit with stops at the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Royal Ontario Museum.
Where to stay
For visitors looking to stay close to the heart of the action, Shangri-La Toronto provides convenient access to many of TIFF's key venues. Located on University Avenue, the hotel sits within walking distance of several festival locations, allowing guests to enjoy the excitement while returning to a peaceful setting between screenings.
The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, 24-hour room service, express check-in and check-out, butler service in selected suites and its signature restaurant, Bosk. Guests can also unwind at the Lobby Lounge and Bar, spa, health club and indoor swimming pool after a busy day at the festival.
Over the years, Shangri-La Toronto has welcomed Hollywood stars including Jake Gyllenhaal during TIFF, reinforcing its reputation as a popular address during the festival. Bosk serves Northern Italian cuisine inspired by seasonal Canadian ingredients alongside premium produce sourced from Italy, making it suitable for everything from relaxed breakfasts to post-screening dinners.
Additional services include valet parking, a 24-hour business centre and transportation options, helping guests move easily around the city throughout their stay. With its central location and wide range of amenities, Shangri-La Toronto offers visitors a comfortable base while keeping them close to one of the world's most celebrated film festivals.