The fact that a shopping mall (The Eaton Centre, 1 Dundas Street West, +14165988560 www.torontoeatoncentre.com) has long been one of Toronto's major tourist attractions is a good indication of the priority given to consumerism as a recreational pursuit. Most foreign visitors will find the Canadian dollar goes a long way, even after its recent strengthening.

For upscale boutiques, head to Yorkville and the 'Mink Mile', a stretch of Bloor Street west of Yonge Street. International brands dwell here, from Chanel to Gucci to Tiffany. The multi-level Holt Renfrew anchors the action at 50 Bloor Street West (+14169222333, www.holtrenfrew.com), while those seeking conservative high-end menswear go to Harry Rosen (82 Bloor Street West, +14169720556).

For a more eclectic shopping experience, check out Kensington Market, a colourful pastiche of local designers, second-time round fashions, fish shops, cheesemongers and knick-knacks. Tom's Place (190 Baldwin Street, +14165960297, www.toms-place.com) sells men's and women's designer clothes at discount prices. Courage My Love (14 Kensington Avenue, +14169791992) peddles vintage chic clothes and oodles of accessories, and is surrounded by other purveyors of past fashion.

Back in the 1970s, Queen Street West, just east of Spadina, was ground zero for the city's counter-culture and art scenes, but the bohemian crowd has moved further west, leaving the area to the chains. The atmosphere still beats the mall for browsing for mid-priced fashion in stalwarts like Club Monaco (403 Queen Street, +14169795633, www.clubmonaco.com), Roots (356 Queen Street, +14169770409, www.roots.com) and housewares at Caban (262 Queen Street, +14165960386). Boomer (309 Queen Street, +14165980013) carries a small but smart collection of menswear. Stylish and inexpensive designer samples and line ends can be had at Grreat Stuff (870 Queen Street West, +14165337680, www.grreatstuff.com). Wenches & Rogues (742 Queen Street, +14165362172) is a good place to find homegrown fashions for men and women, while the kitschily feminine offerings at Peach Berserk (507 Queen Street West, +14165041711, www.peachberserk.com) have long proved popular. Ossington Avenue, just north of Queen West, is an emerging funky new shopping strip, featuring boutiques, vintage stores, and interior design outlets.

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