- 1. Where to Stay in Toronto?
- 2. How to Find Accommodation in Toronto?
- 3. My ❤️ favorites for where to stay in Toronto
- 4. Downtown Toronto, close to all the city's attractions!
- 5. The best hotels to stay in Downtown Toronto.
- 6. Distillery District, to stay in the historical heart of Toronto.
- 7. What are the best hotels in the Distillery District of Toronto?
- 8. Staying in Queen Street West, Toronto's coolest area.
- 9. Best stays in Queen Street West, Toronto's trendiest neighborhood.
- 10. Yorkville, the best place to stay for shopping in Toronto.
- 11. Where to stay in Toronto, in the Yorkville neighborhood?
- 12. Harbourfront, an affordable alternative by Lake Ontario.
- 13. The best hotels to stay in Toronto, at Harbourfront.
Where to Stay in Toronto?
How to Find Accommodation in Toronto?
I think you won't have missed this: Toronto is a very large city! Fortunately, public transport is very efficient for getting around the metropolis. So first tip, settle into an establishment located near a subway station to optimize all your travels ☝️.
Next, the city has many neighborhoods. Most of them are central, each offering a unique atmosphere. Therefore, target your hotel search based on what you are looking for: a quieter ambiance? Proximity to attractions? Shopping, or perhaps nightlife?
Toronto has plenty to satisfy you. However, it's important to understand how the city is organized and the particularities of each district. Of course, the rule will never change: book your nights as soon as possible to stay in the best establishment. Booking can prove handy for quickly comparing hotels and getting an idea of the offerings in terms of accommodation on your travel dates .
If this post is too long to read, then here are the hotels we loved! It is true that Toronto is a very expensive city, but these establishments offer, in our view, the best value for money:
My ❤️ favorites for where to stay in Toronto
Don't have time to read the whole article? Here's a selection of my favorite accommodations:
- The Drake Hotel, with its artistic decor, will offer you a wonderful experience in Queen Street West starting at $273 per night.
- For shopping, the Pantages Hotel Toronto Centre is ideal due to its location. Rooms are available starting at $223 per night.
- Finally, the One King West Hotel and Residence, in downtown. With its fully equipped suites and studios, you can cook as if you were at home, perfect for long stays! Available starting at $240 in low season.
Downtown Toronto, close to all the city's attractions!
Downtown is the perfect place to stay in Toronto if you want to be in the heart of the action. You'll find skyscrapers, excellent restaurants, luxury boutiques, attractions like the CN Tower and the Royal Ontario Museum. It is bordered by Lake Ontario to the south, Bloor Street to the west, the Don Valley Parkway to the east, and Yorkville to the north.
The area is characterized by its skyline with iconic skyscrapers such as the Rogers Centre and First Canadian Place. The streets of Downtown are lively, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. Queen Street West, which will be discussed later, is known for its trendy fashion stores, while Yonge Street is home to many theaters, cinemas, and tourist attractions .
The Financial District, located southeast of Downtown, is the financial center of Canada, housing the headquarters of many large companies. It is also a district where modern architecture coexists with historic buildings. This area is constantly evolving, with real estate development projects continuously transforming its urban landscape. The Harbourfront, along the lakeshore, offers a relaxing space with parks, artificial beaches, and walking trails, and we'll talk about it too!
Overall, Downtown is well served by a public transportation network, including the subway, making it easy to access other neighborhoods in Toronto. I recommend choosing a hotel nearby!
The best hotels to stay in Downtown Toronto.
- InterContinental Toronto Centre is a hotel located just meters from the CN Tower, right in the city center. The establishment has double rooms and premium accommodations to suit every desire. Its location is truly its strong point, as is its modern and chic decor. Rates start at $288 for a night.
- One King West Hotel and Residence is a superb establishment offering studio-style suites, all equipped with a kitchenette, which is ideal for a long stay to cook. It is located in the heart of Toronto, close to all amenities. Most points of interest in Toronto are within walking distance, but there is also a subway entrance just next door! The suites are modern and start at $240 per night
- A third address to spend the night in downtown Toronto is the DoubleTree by Hilton. This 4-star hotel is a 10-minute walk from the Art Gallery of Ontario. It offers a wide selection of rooms accommodating between 2 and 4 people. For a comfortable stay, the hotel also provides access to a heated indoor pool, a gym, and has a restaurant. For an overnight stay, plan an average minimum budget of $220 .
Distillery District, to stay in the historical heart of Toronto.
This historic neighborhood is known for its picturesque brick architecture and art galleries. It's a great place for those looking for a more artistic and cultural atmosphere. Moreover, the cobblestone streets are home to charming cafés and boutiques. Of course, you will be staying close to downtown and other major neighborhoods .
The Distillery District is one-of-a-kind, allowing for an immersive experience in the city's past. Located to the east of downtown, it was the site of the former Gooderham and Worts distillery, the largest distillery in the world in the 19th century. Today, it is a very dynamic district that has managed to retain its old charms .
You will see 19th-century industrial buildings that have been carefully restored, artisan shops, design studios, contemporary art galleries, and clothing stores. The area is also a paradise for food lovers, with various restaurants and cafés serving a wide range of options, even sushi .
A cultural hub, the area hosts various events throughout the year, including theater, music, and art festivals. Furthermore, the Distillery District is home to the Distillery Historic District, an outdoor museum that traces the distillery's history. Overall, this neighborhood has a warm atmosphere, with pleasant public squares to relax and enjoy the view .
What are the best hotels in the Distillery District of Toronto?
- The Novotel Toronto Centre is a hotel that features an indoor pool, jacuzzi, spa, and a large gym. It is located in the downtown area, close to the train station and restaurants. Despite its location, the rooms are very quiet and well insulated. Prices start at $167 for two people ✌️.
- Pantages Hotel Toronto Centre features a modern fitness center. You'll be staying just 140 meters from the Toronto Eaton Centre. The rooms have a modern, stylish decor, with spacious and comfortable beds. Priced at $223 per night for a double room with a queen bed.
Staying in Queen Street West, Toronto's coolest area.
This main street of Toronto is known for its artistic sites, trendy shops, chic restaurants, and art galleries. It is a dynamic and trendy neighborhood that stretches approximately three kilometers. In a few words, it's a true melting pot of culture, commerce, and history!
Queen Street West is popular for its many independent shops, art galleries, restaurants, and trendy cafés. There is a wide variety of establishments, ranging from vintage clothing stores to contemporary design boutiques. Art lovers will be delighted to discover a plethora of galleries showcasing works by local and international artists .
The street is also a hotspot for nightlife, with bars, trendy clubs, and concert venues. Renowned establishments host local and international artists regularly. Music enthusiasts can immerse themselves in Toronto's diverse soul!
Queen Street West is also marked by its varied architecture with historic buildings, modern skyscrapers, and unique artistic structures that reflect the city's evolution. The ambiance is both urban and bohemian, attracting a very diverse population and remains a gathering place for community events, street markets, and festivals .
If you are not planning to stay only in Toronto during your trip and are wondering what to do in Quebec, I have summarized the best things to do, along with my favorite places where to stay in Montreal in dedicated articles .
Best stays in Queen Street West, Toronto's trendiest neighborhood.
- Gladstone House has 55 unique rooms decorated by artists! It is located in the heart of Toronto's arts and design district, near Queen Street West. It offers an excellent location to explore shops, restaurants, and cafés starting at $230 per night for two people.
- The Drake Hotel is a small 4-star hotel with colorful and controlled decor. The hotel is situated in a very trendy area and the downtown Toronto is accessible on foot in under 30 minutes. The bar and restaurant have a delicious menu to discover. Rates start at $273 per night .
Yorkville, the best place to stay for shopping in Toronto.
If you're looking for high-end accommodation, Yorkville is the place to consider. It is the neighborhood of luxury boutiques, upscale restaurants, and luxury hotels. It is also close to the Art Gallery of Ontario. The Yorkville area caters to very flexible budgets!
This neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets lined with designer shops, art galleries, cafés, and trendy restaurants. It boasts a multitude of luxury stores, such as Holt Renfrew and Chanel, as well as independent boutiques offering unique and expensive items. Fashion and style enthusiasts will undoubtedly be satisfied by the varied offerings of clothing, jewelry, and accessories .
Yorkville is also an important cultural center in Toronto, with renowned art galleries, like the Art Gallery of Ontario, nearby. Art lovers can stroll the streets of the neighborhood to discover public exhibitions and urban artworks. When it comes to dining, you'll find a range of restaurants, including Michelin-starred establishments, as well as friendly bistros .
Finally, this neighborhood is known for its festivals and events throughout the year, notably the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). Yorkville is a very vibrant and lively area at all hours, so you will always find something to do, even if you don't plan to settle there.
Where to stay in Toronto, in the Yorkville neighborhood?
- The Anndore House is located 350 meters from the bars and restaurants on Church Street! The rooms are very spacious, elegant, and comfortable. A subway station is just a 3-minute walk from the hotel, allowing you to reach downtown in 15 minutes! Rates start at $167 per night for two people.
- Town Inn Suites Hotel is a 3-star establishment in downtown Toronto, just 5 minutes from Bloor-Yonge subway station. It offers double rooms as well as fully equipped family suites with air conditioning, kitchen, and even dishwasher. Prices start at $150 for a night.
Harbourfront, an affordable alternative by Lake Ontario.
Contrary to what one might think, this neighborhood offers affordable accommodations, including budget hotel chains, motels, and small unpretentious hotels. The setting is truly pleasant, along the lake, and is very well located near Old Toronto and downtown .
It is an iconic place in the city where urban planning meets nature with a unique combination of green spaces, entertainment, and culture. It features promenades that stretch along the shores of the lake, with spectacular views of the shimmering water and the city's skyline. These promenades are bordered by parks, artificial beaches, playgrounds, and picnic areas: a perfect spot for families .
Culture is also celebrated at Harbourfront, with institutions such as the Harbourfront Centre, which regularly hosts artistic events, exhibitions, and performances. The Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery features captivating contemporary art exhibitions, while the Toronto Music Garden is the venue for many free outdoor concerts if you visit the city during the summer .
For daily outings, the neighborhood is home to a variety of restaurants, cafés, bars, and shops, as well as souvenir boutiques and other small street shops. It is a diverse neighborhood that provides a perfect balance between nature, culture, and entertainment, and can satisfy a lot of people!
The best hotels to stay in Toronto, at Harbourfront.
- Radisson Blu Downtown Toronto is a superb hotel with an ideal location near downtown Toronto, close to restaurants and the famous CN Tower. All rooms offer nice views of the skyline, the harbor, or the pool. The rooms are very spacious with functional and understated furniture. Rates start at $160 for a night in the low season.
- The Westin Harbour Castle is a 4-star hotel overlooking Lake Ontario. It offers luxurious stays at affordable prices. On-site: an indoor pool, a gym, and restaurants. The hotel also welcomes pets! In low season, rooms are available starting at $189 .
My article on the best places to stay in Toronto is complete! I hope it has guided you in your accommodation choices in the largest city in Canada. I wish you a wonderful vacation! If you're also wondering what to do in Toronto, I have an article on that topic that might be helpful. That's all from me, feel free to leave a review or comment .