If you are planning a trip to Toronto, congrats! You’re in for a real adventure!
I lived in Canada for two years and had a great time discovering the city with a local, finding all the must-sees, and discovering the best secret spots to share with you!
If you’re wondering where to stay in Toronto for the best vacation, no worries! I will explain everything in detail below. I also went ahead and manually compared pretty much all accommodation options in the city and hand-picked the best of the best for you (that includes everything from budget to luxury!).
In short, my top recommendation for first-time visitors to the city is Downtown Toronto, particularly the Entertainment District. It provides easy access to the top attractions and is home to the best bars and restaurants.
Toronto is a VERY popular destination, so the hotels get booked far in advance! Make sure to secure your spot to get the best deals on the top-rated accommodations.
Quick Picks for Your Stay…
Here’s a shortlist of the top hotels, all located in the Entertainment District:
- Best luxury hotel: Fairmont Hotel Toronto Royal York
- Best mid-range hotel: The Sutton Place Hotel
- Best budget hotel: Rex Hotel
Contents
- Quick Picks for Your Stay…
- Overview of Toronto neighborhoods
- 1. Entertainment District – for the first time
- 2. Yonge-Dundas Square – where to stay for sightseeing
- 3. Harbourfront & Distillery – for the best views
- 4. Bloor-Yorkville – best for families & luxury
- 5. West Queen – the trendiest place in Toronto
- 6. Chinatown & Kensington Market – where to stay on a budget
- 7. The Annex & Little Italy – where to stay for a local vibe
- 8. The Village – a monument to gay culture
- BONUS 1: Best apartments in Toronto
- BONUS 2: Best hotels near Toronto Airport
- FAQs about where to stay in Toronto
- Conclusion
Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:
Here’s a map that will help you visualize the areas I’ll talk about in this post.
NOTE: All of the areas I mention below are very central or within walking distance of the city center, so your choice will be based on your personal preferences and budget!
- Where to stay for the first time – Downtown, and Distillery District
- Best places for nightlife – Entertainment District, and Bloor-Yorkville
- Where to stay with family – Yonge-Dundas Square, and Harbourfront
- For the best views – Harbourfront & Distillery, and Entertainment District
- The trendiest neighborhoods – West Queen, and The Village
- Where to stay on a budget – Chinatown, and West Queen
- Best spots for foodies – Chinatown, Kensington Market, and Little Italy
Overview of Toronto neighborhoods
Toronto is a very unique city, one of the reasons being that the downtown area is extremely vast and consists of many other smaller areas.
So, in downtown Toronto, you’ll find the Entertainment District, Yonge-Dundas Square, the Harbourfront and the Distillery District, Kensington Market and Chinatown, The Village and many more. I have mentioned the main ones for you in the list below, but please keep in mind they are all part of the bigger Downtown area.
Plus, you’ll find recs for other neighborhoods bordering the downtown area, so you’ll be centrally located no matter what you choose, and discover the ultimate hotels in all of the best Toronto neighborhoods!
1. Entertainment District – for the first time
Toronto’s Entertainment District is centrally located and vibrant, making it a great choice for anyone who wants nightlife, convenience, and proximity to the main tourist attractions, like the CN Tower.
I would start a night out with dinner, as the restaurants here are great, especially around King Street, the core of this area, which is also home to Canada’s Walk of Fame. And as a personal note, I recommend booking your hotel here as well, so you’ll be in the very heart of the district.
The first thing on your list should be the iconic CN Tower – you can snap a photo or take a walk up to the top. If you’re a baseball fan, try to catch a Toronto Blue Jays game at the Rogers Centre. The Scotiabank Arena – another must-visit if you’re a sports fan, but if not, you can spend the day admiring the animals at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada.
The Entertainment District borders the Financial District/Downtown core, where you can visit the historic Union Station (map) and the Hockey Hall of Fame (map).
If you’re looking for a fun, chill way to spend an evening in the district, I have a couple of suggestions! First, you can catch a movie at the Scotiabank Theatre Toronto or a show at the Royal Alexandra Theatre; then, you can check the event schedule at the Roy Thomson Hall and get tickets for one of the amazing concerts that take place there!
During your stay in the Entertainment District, I suggest you grab a drink at Steam Whistle Kitchen (map), a pilsner brewery situated in a historic railway roadhouse. But if you’re looking for things to do during the day, the district has plenty to offer as well!
Luxury (US$200 and up)
- Fairmont Hotel Toronto Royal York – If you’re looking for hotels near Toronto’s Union Station, this one’s right across the street from it! This gorgeous 5-star hotel awaits with 3 on-site restaurants, 2 swimming pools, spacious and cozy rooms, their own gym, and even on-site shopping options.
- Marriott Hotel Toronto City Centre – The Marriott offers 4-star luxury service and various room types to choose from. Arriba, the on-site restaurant, serves Mediterranean cuisine, and guests can also use the outdoor barbecue facilities.
- InterContinental Toronto Centre – This pet-friendly hotel has an on-site bar, restaurant, and spa. Guests can also use the 24-hour gym, business center, and indoor pool. Other perks include a buffet breakfast and concierge services.
Mid-range (US$100 – US$200)
- Grand Royal Condos – A 4-star property located near the CN Tower. It features a rooftop terrace, a garden, and 2 coffee shops. All condos have air conditioning, a sitting area, a private balcony or patio, a dining area, and a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries.
- The Sutton Place Hotel – This centrally located hotel provides easy access to many sights and is close to public transport stations – perfect if you’re traveling without a car. The hotel also features a restaurant and a gym and offers laundry/dry cleaning services.
Budget (up to US$100)
- Rex Hotel – If you’re looking for cheap hotels in central Toronto, the Rex Hotel is the ultimate choice. As a guest, you can enjoy concerts, live shows, and delicious food at The Rex restaurant and even get cooked-to-order breakfast.
- The Clarence Park – The clean and comfortable rooms of Clarence Park overlook a beautiful garden, but you can also enjoy the view from the rooftop terrace if the weather is warm. If you want some indoor time, you can cook a meal in the shared kitchen or mingle with the other guests in the lounge area.
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2. Yonge-Dundas Square – where to stay for sightseeing
If you ask me, staying around the Yonge-Dundas Square (located in the Old Town Toronto District) is the most convenient choice, especially if this is your first visit or if you’re in the city for 3 days.
In this area, you will find the heart and lungs of the city: Yonge-Dundas Square, at the intersection of Dundas Street and bustling Yonge Street. This is basically Toronto’s Times Square!
The square itself is a lot smaller than NY Times Square, but it’s a great starting point for exploring the many sights in the downtown area, especially if you have limited time in the city, for example, if you’re only there for the weekend!
Needless to say, if you base yourself downtown, you’ll be surrounded by countless restaurants and many attractions like the famous Toronto Sign (map), St. Lawrence Market, and Toronto Old City Hall.
Other things worth your time in central Toronto are the CF Toronto Eaton Centre (map) and the Royal Ontario Museum. And if you’re in the mood for a cool show, I’d recommend the CAA Ed Mirvish Theatre (formerly the Canon Theatre), where you can see a variety of stage shows and musicals.
Honestly, this area is perfect for any type of traveler! That’s why most people choose to stay here, so booking your hotels in advance is super important! That being said, let’s see which are the best Toronto hotels in the downtown area.
Luxury (US$170 and up)
- The St. Regis Toronto – This hotel was recently awarded ‘ Double Five Stars’ by Forbes because it redefines luxury for other 5-star Toronto hotels. The St. Regis has an amazing indoor pool and a top-notch restaurant, and it’s just a short walk from major attractions!
- One King West Hotel – The hotel was built back in 1914, so it boasts a perfect blend of historic elegance and modern amenities. The central location is the perfect starting point if you want to explore Toronto, and you’ll definitely enjoy the city views, the delicious food, and the free Wi-Fi.
- The Omni King Edward Hotel Toronto – This 4-star hotel has a fabulous on-site restaurant, beautiful rooms, its own fitness center, and many other cool advantages, like a tour desk and currency exchange! The atmosphere is quite romantic, so the hotel is quite popular among couples visiting Toronto.
Mid-range (US$110 – US$170)
- Holiday Inn Express – A 3-star, eco-certified hotel, offering clean rooms with comfortable beds, free parking, Wi-Fi, and luggage storage. The staff is friendly and helpful, and a delicious breakfast is included in the price.
- Yonge Suites Furnished Apartments – These contemporary apartments are centrally located on Yonge Street, and each unit has a fully equipped kitchen and laundry facilities. Guests are welcome to use the on-site fitness center, sauna, and business lounge or admire the stunning skyline views from the rooftop terrace.
Budget (up to US$110)
- Home in Downtown – This is a lovely guesthouse with an outdoor dining area. It offers air conditioning and cooking facilities in each room. Bicycle rentals are available on-site, and there’s entertainment staff as well.
- Comfortable Private Room – This spacious bedroom features a queen-size bed, a dedicated workspace, a large closet, and an en suite bathroom. Shared amenities include a seasonal pool, hot tub, and gym.
3. Harbourfront & Distillery – for the best views
Harbourfront is very close to the Entertainment District; it’s located north of Lake Ontario, on the banks, and it’s a great place to stay in Toronto because it offers stunning views and is within walking distance to Yonge-Dundas Square and other important locations in Toronto downtown.
The Jack Layton Ferry Terminal is situated on the harbourfront, so you can hop on a ferry and visit the nearby Toronto Islands. In addition to many restaurants and bars, charming cafes, and green areas, you’ll also come across the Toronto Music Garden (map), a lovely place to unwind and admire the views.
What’s more, you’ll be able to spend some time on the beach! HTO Park (map) is open to tourists and is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the sun! When the weather is nice, you may want to rent a kayak and go out on the water at Lake Ontario.
If you don’t like swimming or being out on the water, head down Spadina Avenue to the Spadina WaveDeck to soak in the view and snap some shots of Lake Ontario.
Another spot that definitely warrants a visit is the Harbourfront Centre, a cultural center that hosts a variety of events, from art shows and theater performances to workshops and competitions.
If you’re the type of tourist who likes to explore a city by walking around, then the pedestrian-only Distillery District is the perfect spot for you. Here, you’ll come across 19th-century buildings that once housed an old whiskey distillery.
As you walk along the cobbled streets, you can decide to stop at one of the many, many restaurants, bistros, and bars or visit an art gallery! Also, if you’re visiting Toronto during the winter holidays, this is the place to be! The annual holiday market takes place here, in the Distillery Winter Village (map), formerly the Toronto Christmas Market.
NOTE: If you’re spending one night in Toronto during your Canada trip and are looking for things to do in other parts of the country, check out our post on the best boat tours at Niagara Falls.
There are many great hotels in this area, and the best ones have a wonderful view of Lake Ontario and the Toronto Islands. If you want to stay near the Harbourfront and the Distillery District, here are the best options:
Luxury (US$200 and up)
- Delta Hotel Toronto by Marriott – This wonderful 4-star hotel is the ideal location for those who want to be super close to Rogers Centre, the CN Tower, and Hockey Hall of Fame. Some of the main advantages to staying here are the indoor pool and the Char No.5 Whisky & Cocktail Lounge, which serves premium whisky and craft cocktails.
- The Westin Harbour Castle – The list of facilities at this hotel includes an indoor pool, hot tub, 2 tennis courts, and valet parking, which is good news for people visiting Toronto with a car. Each of the rooms has a laptop-friendly workspace and a private bathroom stocked with eco-friendly toiletries.
- Radisson Blu – In case you’re searching for a hotel with an outdoor pool, this one’s for you – you can go for a swim or relax on the comfy sun loungers. The rooms are simply stunning, and they boast a view of the city or the harbor. The hotel also has an on-site restaurant as well as a fitness center!
Mid-range (US$150 – US$200)
- Million Dollar Lake View – A condo offering breathtaking lake views. There’s a balcony where you can sit and admire the view, but there are also 2 bedrooms, a living room, a full kitchen, and 2 bathrooms.
- Private bdrm – conveniently located next to Union Station and near the Financial District, this bedroom features a comfortable double bed and private half-bathroom, but you also get access to shared spaces – a kitchen and the master bathroom.
There are no budget hotels good enough for me to recommend in this area, but if you want to stay in a cheaper place, then I think West Queen West will be a perfect spot nearby.
4. Bloor-Yorkville – best for families & luxury
The Bloor-Yorkville neighborhood is located a bit north of the city center and is a part of the larger Midtown area. It’s a fascinating neighborhood that combines both old and modern buildings, many shops, restaurants, and museums.
This is the neighborhood where celebrities hang out, so naturally, the prices are higher – both accommodations and restaurants are more expensive. However, there are plenty of hotels around this area, and you can choose one depending on your preferences.
Yorkville is home to one of the most expensive shopping districts in the world – yep, I’m talking about Mink Mile, which runs along Bloor Street and between Yonge Street and Avenue Road. Chanel, Burberry, and other high-end shopping opportunities await!
The Yorkville Village shopping mall (map) is another must for all shopping enthusiasts. The mall hosts a variety of designer stores and upscale restaurants, so you can spend a pleasant day without going outside!
Besides designer stores, the area around Bloor-Yorkville has tons of parks and natural spots, so if you’re looking for a family-friendly place close to Downtown, you’ve come to the right place! Spend relaxing afternoons at Christie Pits Park or head to neighboring Rosedale and the Evergreen Brick Works park, or an evening music show at Danforth Music Hall.
If you’d like to get some sightseeing done, I would recommend the famous Casa Loma, a wonderful museum situated in a castle. Two other museums that warrant your attention during your stay in the neighborhood are the Bata Shoe Museum (one of my fav!) and the Royal Ontario Museum (technically in downtown Toronto) – a must-visit during your stay in Toronto.
While there’s plenty to see and do here, I also recommend a day trip to the nearby suburb of North York, where you’ll find many amazing Toronto attractions. First on your list should be the Ontario Science Centre, then the Toronto Botanical Garden and the Aga Khan Museum – all worth your time and attention!
Below are my hand-picked hotel recommendations for Bloor-Yorkville.
Luxury (US$200 and up)
- Kimpton Saint George – This upscale hotel is on Bloor Street, steps from the Royal Ontario Museum and the Bata Shoe Museum. The rooms are tastefully decorated, and the staff is super friendly. Complimentary tea and coffee are served every morning, but there’s also an evening wine hour.
- Four Seasons Toronto – A 5-star resort with comfortable rooms offering amazing views of Toronto from the floor-to-ceiling windows. There are many luxury amenities, such as an indoor lap pool, hot tub, spa, and full-service fitness center. The concierge service is multilingual, and the hotel offers babysitting services for an extra charge.
- The Hazelton Hotel – Here’s another stunning 5-star hotel for your stay in Toronto, just 5 minutes away from the Royal Ontario Museum. The rooms are very modern and bright, and the hotel even has an on-site spa, free Wi-Fi, a movie room, and an on-site restaurant. Childcare services are available but incur an additional charge.
Mid-range (US$120 – US$200)
- The Anndore House – If you’re looking for a comfortable hotel that won’t break the bank, this one might be a very good choice for you! Located in Yorkville, it boasts a 4-star service, an on-site restaurant, free Wi-Fi, a cafe, and many other useful amenities and facilities.
- Town Inn Suites – even though it’s slightly lower-rated than my usual recommendations, this 3-star accommodation is a great choice, right on Church Street. There’s free Wi-Fi, a great restaurant, friendly staff, and all the facilities you might need. Oh, did I mention they also have an indoor pool? So cool!
Unfortunately, there are no budget options in these areas that I feel comfortable recommending. You know I always recommend only the best, and none of the budget options in these two areas match my criteria.
But if you are looking for cheap accommodation, I think you will like Planet Traveler Hostel in Chinatown!
5. West Queen – the trendiest place in Toronto
If you go a bit to the west from the Entertainment District, you’ll get to West Queen West, a super cool and trendy neighborhood!
In 2014, Vogue named West Queen West as being the second coolest neighborhood in the entire world!
It’s the perfect area for young people who don’t want to get bored, even for a second! There’s always something to do in West Queen West and around Queen Street, regardless of whether you visit it during the day or night.
In this area, you’ll encounter artists, fashion lovers, and street art everywhere you look. If you want to see the best street art samples, then you have to check out Graffiti Alley (map), a narrow street at the edge of the neighborhood painted with the most amazing graffiti you’ll see in Toronto.
When you crave some peace and quiet, one of the best things you can do is spend a day at Trinity Bellwoods Park – you may even get to see some cherry blossoms!
Overall, this is quite a small neighborhood and doesn’t host any of the city’s most famous attractions. But regardless of this, there’s never a dull moment in the West Queen West neighborhood, and I’m sure you’ll find plenty of things to fill your time.
In case you’re looking for something to do, I advise you to visit Toronto’s Fashion District and go shopping for clothes at one of the many boutiques. This district is adjacent to the West Queen West neighborhood, so you won’t have to venture very far!
If this sounds like your cup of tea, here are the best Toronto accommodation options in this area:
Luxury (US$200 and up)
- The Drake – A great option for your stay in West Toronto, near the Fashion District. Book a room here if you want to be surrounded by art galleries, popular attractions, and a gorgeous park full of maple leaves. Plus, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff and served a delicious breakfast every morning during your stay here.
- Gladstone House – An iconic Toronto hotel situated in a Victorian building, where each of the guest rooms has been artist-designed! Pick it as your base if you want to enjoy great service, a unique decor that combines both old and new, an on-site cafe, and more!
Mid-range (US$140 – US$200)
- Sonder at The Liberty – Elegant, classy, and a great view of the city! Each room has a private bathroom, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV. The property also offers private parking and gym access, as well as high-speed Wi-Fi.
- Cosy Studio Apt – A newly renovated, cozy apartment in the heart of West Queen West. Guests can access the apartment through a private entrance and use the en suite bathroom and the several kitchen appliances available in the space.
Budget (up to US$140)
- Private room in West Queen West – A bedroom in a shared apartment with a private bathroom, a double bed, and a workspace. Guests can also use the shared kitchen and navigate the neighborhood without any difficulty, seeing as the apartment is conveniently located and close to many attractions.
- Cosy room – a small, private bedroom featuring a bed and a workspace and access to shared spaces, including a bathroom, kitchen, and a lovely little balcony.
6. Chinatown & Kensington Market – where to stay on a budget
Did you know that Toronto has no less than 3 Chinatowns? I wasn’t kidding when I said that this is a multicultural city!
In this post, I’ll be talking about Toronto’s Chinatown that’s in the downtown part of the city and right next to Kensington Market. This is a very lively neighborhood where you’ll find many shops and local restaurants.
Chinatown is one of the best neighborhoods for budget travelers and backpackers. Here, you’ll find many good accommodations at accessible prices. And considering this is a very central area, I think that’s an amazing combo!
You can spend your days exploring the Kensington Market or just walking down Spadina Avenue and getting your souvenirs from one of the many shops or stopping for a delicious meal at one of the many, many restaurants. Trust me, if you’re a foodie, THIS is the perfect place to stay in Toronto!
My top two spots for dining near Kensington Market are Rol San Restaurant, which serves the most amazing dim sum, and Saigon Lotus, where you can try delicious Vietnamese dishes. And since we are in Chinatown, be sure to pay a visit to Mother’s Dumplings.
NOTE: since Chinatown is a very budget-friendly area, there aren’t any luxury hotels here. So, my first two recommendations are outside the neighborhood’s borders but just a short walk away.
Luxury (US$200 and up)
- Shangri-La Hotel Toronto – One of the best 5-star hotels in Toronto, located only 20 minutes from Chinatown on foot, between Toronto’s Entertainment District and Financial District. It’s also about a 10-minute walk from the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, so it’s a top choice for culture seekers.
- Bisha Hotel Toronto – Didn’t make up your mind yet? Here’s another excellent 5-star hotel very close to the Chinatown district. The hotel boasts an entire floor of Lenny Kravitz-designed guestrooms and a rooftop restaurant with a pool.
Mid-range (US$100 – US$190)
- Hotel Ocho – Located in a factory from 1902 and a 10-minute walk from Kensington Market, this hotel has comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. There’s a restaurant on-site where you can grab a quick breakfast before heading out, and you can even rent a bicycle for an additional charge!
- Sonder The Beverley – A little outside Chinatown and near the CN Tower, Sonder the Beverley offers concierge services and luggage storage. The restaurant at this boutique hotel also serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you don’t have to venture out for a nice meal.
Budget (up to US$80)
- Planet Traveler Hostel – Enjoy the free breakfast at this friendly hostel that offers modern rooms with en-suite bathrooms and free Wi-Fi. Plus, you’ll have access to a personal locker with integrated power points and access to the lounge, where you can relax in front of the fireplace.
- Samesun Toronto – This budget accomodation near Kensington Market offers private rooms as well as beds in shared dormitories. Continental breakfast is served every morning, but guests can also benefit from services like luggage storage and a 24-hour front desk.
7. The Annex & Little Italy – where to stay for a local vibe
The Annex and Little Italy are two other Toronto neighborhoods that border the downtown part of the city. The neighborhoods are on the smaller side and quite close to each other, so I decided to group them together. Another thing the 2 neighborhoods share is their character – a character that depicts local Toronto life.
The Annex is known as Toronto’s student quarter. The reason for this is the fact that the neighborhood borders the University of Toronto, and a large number of students are living in the Annex during their time at the university.
If you’re looking for attractions, the Annex (and Little Italy, for that matter) may not be exactly the place for you. The area is, and always has been, residential, so you won’t find that many points of interest here. But if you want to see a glimpse of the local scene, you have to spend a night at Lee’s Palace to attend one of the live music shows by indie and local artists.
Everything I’ve said so far about the Annex can be easily said about Little Italy, as well as the nearby Palmerston. There aren’t that many significant sights, and the streets are often overflowing with students.
However, compared to the Annex, Little Italy has a large concentration of pizzerias and gelaterias, as well as plenty of bars and coffee shops lined along College Street.
For a night out in Little Italy, I recommend catching a movie at The Royal or attending a live show at The Mod Club. And, of course, you can always grab a drink or a bite to eat at one of the many lovely restaurants.
As I already mentioned, these 2 areas are primarily residential and house a large number of students. Due to this, there aren’t that many hotels in these 2 areas. Out of all the available options, I singled out only 2 options that I feel comfortable recommending to you:
Mid-range (US$110 – US$210)
- The Annex – this boutique hotel is in a central yet quiet location within the Annex neighborhood and offers air-conditioned rooms, each with a private bathroom. The front desk is open around the clock, and the staff is friendly and willing to help with anything you may need.
- The Jane Toronto – this cozy B&B is the perfect choice for couples due to its romantic atmosphere – some of the rooms have a fireplace, and guests can use the shared garden and picnic area. Even though the building dates back to 1906, all the rooms have been renovated and boast a contemporary design.
8. The Village – a monument to gay culture
The Church and Wellesley neighborhood of Toronto, also known as ‘The Village’ is located in Downtown East and is known as the city’s main gay hub. In this part of downtown, you’ll find plenty of gathering spots for the LGBTQ+ community, especially along Church Street, the Village’s main artery.
However, this neighborhood is also the spot where Pride Toronto, i.e., Toronto’s Pride Parade, takes place each June.
During your stay here, you can explore quite a few gay landmarks! The Buddies in Bad Times Theatre is a queer performing arts center that produces very bold gay/lesbian shows but also doubles down as a bar/nightclub.
Woody’s and SAILOR is possibly one of the most well-known gay clubs in the neighborhood – you should definitely see one of their drag performances. And if you’re interested in seeing more cool drag shows, Crews & Tangos is the best place to do so!
Pegasus On Church is another great gay-oriented venue, but significantly more laid-back than Woody’s. Here, you can participate in a trivia night and play a game of pool, but you must try one of the colorful martinis!
Another important gay landmark is the Glad Day Bookshop – the world’s oldest LGBTQ+ bookshop that has been around since 1970.
While you’re staying in the neighborhood, I suggest you also attend one of the shows at the CAA Theatre and catch a movie at the Carlton Cinema. Last but not least, you have to make a stop at the Mattamy Athletic Centre, formerly the Maple Leaf Gardens, a historic Toronto building.
So, without further ado, let’s look at the best accommodation options in the Village:
Luxury (US$210 and up)
- Holiday Inn Toronto Downtown – located right next to the Maple Leaf Gardens, the hotel allows guests to use the gym, a business center, and other meeting facilities. The on-site restaurant, The Carlton, serves breakfast and dinner, while the Thirty Bar offers a wide selection of drinks.
- The Anndore House – the rooms at this hotel are lavishly decorated, and each is equipped with a flat-screen TV and an iPod-compatible vinyl record player. The hotel also has its proprietary mobile app that allows you to control room temperature and lighting and order room service from your phone.
Mid-range (US$120 – US$210)
- Hampton Inn & Suites – at the Hampton Inn, Wi-Fi is available free of charge for all guests, as well as a fitness center and an indoor pool. Underground parking is also available, but this service incurs a surcharge. Shade, the on-site restaurant, is open for breakfast and dinner every day.
- Sonder The Wellesley – even though this hotel is slightly lower-rated than the other options, it offers excellent value for money. The hotel was recently renovated and offers modern amenities like Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs with cable channels. Guests can use the shared courtyard and save some time with the express check-out process.
Budget (up to US$120)
- Victoria’s Mansion Guest House – this historic mansion was built in the 1880s and has been renovated to provide modern comforts to people staying here. All rooms are air-conditioned and have private bathrooms, in-room refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers.
- Downtown Quiet Hidden Gem – this cozy Airbnb is actually a private bedroom in a shared home. Guests get access to their own private bathroom and can enjoy the comfortable queen-sized bed, but they can also use the shared living area and kitchen.
👑 Luxury price: | US$450 |
💵 Mid-range: | US$220 |
🛏️ Budget: | US$110 |
📍 Best neighborhood: | Entertainment District |
🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Fairmont Hotel Toronto Royal York |
🧳 Mid-range hotel: | The Sutton Place Hotel |
👛 Best budget hotel: | Rex Hotel |
BONUS 1: Best apartments in Toronto
If you’re the type of traveler who likes to feel right at home while traveling, an apartment might be the best choice. What do you think?
Staying in an apartment is also a great choice for people traveling with kids, as the extra space is much welcomed, as well as the extra amenities such as the kitchen or seating area.
Luxury (US$160 and up)
- Luxury view in Toronto Downtown – A spacious apartment offering gorgeous city views and a great terrace where you can sit and marvel at Lake Ontario. The space consists of 3 bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and 2 bathrooms, so it’s perfect for a large family or a group of friends.
- Front Street Suites – This upscale apartment offers its guests access to a rooftop pool, a hot tub, and a sauna. It has 1 bedroom, a seating area with a flat-screen TV, a kitchen, and a balcony that overlooks the city.
Mid-range (US$100 – US$160)
- Beautiful 1Bd – Close to attractions like the CN Tower and the Toronto Eaton Centre, this apartment offers air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and access to a rooftop pool and a sauna. Also, there’s on-site parking for an additional charge and a laundry service, too.
- lush condo – At this 1-bedroom apartment, you can enjoy amenities like a sauna and a hot tub, connect to the Wi-Fi network free of charge, and watch your favorite programs on one of the 2 flat-screen TVs.
Budget (up to US$100)
- Large, Bright 1-Bdrm – A garden-level apartment with 1 bedroom, a private bathroom, a charming living room, and a fully equipped kitchen. Laundry services and street parking can be arranged for an additional charge.
- Spacious 1 BD basement apartment – This basement apartment stands out with its modern, comfortable furnishings, and a peaceful and quiet atmosphere. There’s 1 bedroom, a bathroom, and a small but functional kitchen.
BONUS 2: Best hotels near Toronto Airport
In case you have a late-night flight, staying in a hotel close to Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) might be one of the smartest choices for you!
Oh, and by the way, even though the area close to the airport is usually kind of boring in many of the world’s cities, Toronto is an exception! You will surely find many great restaurants that you can choose from here.
Below, you have a mixture of luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels near Toronto Pearson Airport:
- Sheraton Gateway Hotel – This upscale hotel is situated inside the airport and provides a direct link to Terminal 3. Guests can check in for their flight from the hotel and print boarding passes in the lobby, so this is the most convenient choice if you’re short on time.
- Alt Hotel – Sleep, eat, and regain your strength after a long flight at this lovely hotel that’s located 1 mile (2 km) away from the airport. The rooms are bright and modern, and each has a seating area and a desk. Grab-and-go breakfast, lunch, and dinner are also available at this hotel.
- Best Western Plus Travel – This hotel is located a bit further away from the airport: 3 miles (5 km), but it offers a free airport shuttle service! There’s also a restaurant on-site, a gym, laundry facilities, and a business center! A currency exchange is available at the hotel, ideal for guests flying in from abroad.
FAQs about where to stay in Toronto
💯 What are the best areas to stay in Toronto?
The Entertainment District and the downtown area around Yonge-Dundas Square are the 2 best areas to stay in Toronto – you’ll find many attractions like the CN Tower and Toronto Old City Hall and amazing hotels like the Fairmont Hotel Toronto Royal York and The St. Regis Toronto.
🛑 What places to avoid in Toronto?
Toronto is generally safe, but I recommend avoiding certain areas, such as Jane and Finch, Cabbagetown after dark, and Kipling and Albion.
🏨 What are the best luxury hotels to stay in Toronto?
The St. Regis Toronto and Fairmont Hotel Toronto Royal York are the best luxury hotels to stay in Toronto. Both offer amazing services and have great reviews.
🤔 How many days do you need in Toronto?
Between 4 and 5 days should be enough for your stay in Toronto. During this time, you’ll be able to stop by all the major attractions and maybe go on day trips to some cool spots like Niagara Falls.
🏒 Where to stay near Scotiabank Arena (formally Air Canada Centre)?
The Scotiabank Arena is located near the Harbourfront and Entertainment District. The closest hotels to the stadium are Delta Hotel Toronto by Marriott and Le Germain (these are also good options near Union Station).
🚶🏽 Is Toronto a walkable city?
Despite its size, Toronto is an extremely walkable city. All the main attractions are centered around the downtown area, so even if you visit Toronto without a car and choose to stay in one of the recommended areas, you can easily explore the city on foot.
😎 What is the coolest neighborhood in Toronto?
The coolest Toronto neighborhood is West Queen West, known for its lively atmosphere, cool street art, and many authentic shops and cafes.
🚗 Where to stay in Toronto with a car?
If you’re visiting Toronto with a car, the best place to stay is Bloor-Yorkville due to the fact that most hotels in the area offer private parking. The Kimpton Saint George and Four Seasons Toronto are two great hotels offering secure parking at a surcharge.
🚋 Where to stay in Toronto without a car?
The ultimate place to stay when visiting Toronto without a car is the Downtown area, particularly the Entertainment District. From here, you can easily walk to all the main attractions, and if you need to go somewhere further away, there are plenty of public transport options.
Conclusion
That’s it! You reached the end of my very detailed post on where to stay in Toronto! I talked about the best neighborhoods in Toronto for all types of travelers and budgets, and I gave you my hand-picked hotels in each of them.
If you’re finding it hard to make up your mind, here are my top 2 favorites:
- Fairmont Hotel Toronto Royal York – A stunning hotel near the Financial District with a skylit pool and 3 on-site dining venues
- The Sutton Place Hotel – An affordable hotel with an on-site gym and currency exchage
I hope that you already found the dream place for your vacation! Just keep in mind that you have to book the hotels in advance if you want to get the best deals!
Please leave me a comment and share your thoughts on Toronto!
Happy travels,
Kate
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Hello from Scotland, I found your information VERY informative, concise and personable.
I am coming to Toronto – last few days in April first week in May but I have limited mobility and need to hire a power chair – can you point me in the right direction please? I have tried looking at web sites until I have become square eyed with no luck. I think I should stay in Downtown Toronto and will take your advice on Yonge- Dunas Square. Thank you for you help in advance and I look forward to staying in Toronto.
Hey Ms. Barbara,
Thank you so much for your kind words, I am glad that you found our article useful for planning your visit to Toronto. Yes, I do believe that Downtown Toronto with Yonge-Dunas Square is a great choice for you! Regarding power chairs, please mind that this is not our area of expertise. But after some searching on Google I found this company that looks good! I hope that it will help you.
Have a great stay in Toronto!
Do you have any advice for getting to Niagara Falls from Toronto?
Hello,
You can take a look at my article on Best Niagara Falls tours, where I share with you everything I know about Niagara Falls, including how to get there from Toronto!