8AM: Wake up wrapped in luxurious Frette sheets at the Kimpton Saint George on Bloor Street, in the heart of the city. Stroll through its intimate, book-lined lobby, then make your way along picturesque streets to the real deal: the John P. Robarts Library on the University of Toronto Campus. A must for Brutalist aficionados.

9AM: Line up to sample legendary breakfast sandwiches or pistachio croissants, at the bakery Emmer. Enjoy the discreet neighbourhood charm of Harbord Village along the way.

10:30AM: Check out early Expressionists work, such as Tom Thomson’s painting The West Wind in the uplifting, Frank Gehry-designed Art Gallery of Ontario. Spend a quiet moment in the museum’s Henry Moore Sculpture Centre, one of the city’s most contemplative spots.

12:30PM: Savour the fusion of Canadian, Mexican and Asian cuisine at Quetzal, with such dishes as veal marrow glazed with Ontario wildflower honey and Argentinian shrimp, and Hokkaido scallop in a smoky leche negra with charred tortilla. And be sure to drink a toast to the chef with a Michelada cocktail.

3PM: Segue into the bohemian spirit of Roncesvalles with a trip to Baa Baazaar. The store’s whimsical, eclectic mix of homeware includes ceramics from East Fork Pottery, founded by Alex Matisse, the greatgrandson of Henri.

4PM: Keep out the winter chill by heading to La Canadienne for a pair of shearling boots. Its selection of elegant yet functional footwear is a constant source of inspiration for the fashion-focused.

5PM: Explore exquisite embroideries, quilts and rugs made by Indigenous artists at the Textile Museum of Canada. A pioneer of recycling, the museum has run a textile re-use programme for over thirty years.

6PM: Treat your skin to a super hydrating facial at Formula Fig, which uses state-of-the art beauty techniques. And, before leaving, be sure to stock up with skincare products by Canadian brands such as Ember Wellness and Asklepios Garden.

7PM: Experience quintessential Torontonian cuisine at Union. Chef and owner Teo Paul’s seasonal menus are prepared with the best locavore ingredients. Denizens have a soft spot for the elk sliders and rotisserie Cornish hen, both Union classics. As for dessert: it’s thumbs up for the sticky ginger cake.

8PM: Never mind the crush at the Communist’s Daughter, a tiny watering hole that’s considered a Toronto institution, just soak up the bonhomie and the bartender’s renowned stiff drinks. Then get with the beat of local band Red Rhythm.