If you’ve chosen to visit Toronto, you’ll definitely need to find accommodation in the city. Given the vastness of things to see and do in the capital of Ontario, it’s not ideal for a day trip from another location.
However, it’s essential to understand where it’s best to stay. In a city with over three million inhabitants, the neighborhood you choose for your stay can make a difference. In this article, I’ll try to provide some tips on choosing the most suitable area for your needs, where you can find a hotel or an apartment.
Downtown Toronto
Entertainment District and Harbourfront accommodations
- Le Germain Hotel Maple Leaf Square: This 4-star hotel is strategically located, just a 10-minute walk from Union Station, the CN Tower, and the Hockey Hall of Fame. It offers high-quality rooms and suites.
- Fairmont Royal York Hotel: Located right in front of Union Station, in the most central and well-connected area of the city, this large hotel is built with environmentally friendly features. It houses award-winning restaurants, a library with a bar surrounded by books, an indoor pool, and many other amenities.
- Making Waves Boatel: Docked at the Toronto Harbor, there’s a boat that serves as an exclusive and well-maintained bed and breakfast. It comes with all the services you’d expect, comfortable cabins, and gourmet breakfast. In other words, you’ll be sleeping on the waves, but don’t expect a raft.
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Yonge-Dundas: Luxurious Toronto
Behind the Harbourfront, in the part of the historic downtown area farthest from the lakefront, you’ll find the city’s most upscale neighborhood. High-quality services abound here, making it one of the best areas to stay if you want to explore the city without wasting time. The connections to all major attractions are ideal from this neighborhood. Hotels here are generally of high quality, which naturally comes with higher prices. If you don’t mind spending a little extra, you’ll find the perfect hotel for your needs here.
- Marriott Downtown at CF Toronto Eaton Centre: This is a reliable option in the heart of the city. It offers the tranquility of staying with a large chain and has a central location. The hotel features a rooftop pool and rooms with all the necessary amenities.
- Yonge Suites Furnished Apartments: If you’re looking for a high-end apartment, this is the place for you. These accommodations come with fully-equipped kitchens and all the other useful services you might need. They offer suites and deluxe penthouses, as well as a gym. This is a luxurious residence with all the amenities you’d desire.
Old Town Toronto: the Distillery District
- The Omni King Edward Hotel: A 4-star hotel with impeccable services, including a spa and wellness center. The reception is open 24 hours, and the staff also speaks Italian.
- The Ivy at Verity: This building was originally a chocolate factory dating back to 1850 but has been transformed into a luxurious hotel. Just a few minutes’ walk from St. Lawrence Market, you’ll feel right at home in the meticulously designed rooms of this hotel.
- Beautiful 4Br Downtown Garden House: Especially if you’re a large group or a big family, you can also rent a lovely house near the Distillery District. It comes with 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and all the necessary amenities for cooking, including a barbecue.
Kensington and Chinatown: a budget-friendly neighborhood
- Planet Traveler Hostel: One of the city’s top hostels, suitable for those seeking budget-friendly accommodations without compromising on cleanliness or quality. Good breakfast, evening entertainment, and well-maintained rooms make this hostel an excellent choice for younger travelers.
- 301 Augusta: In this area, you’ll find various apartments of different quality levels. Some are of excellent quality and well-maintained.
- Hotel Ocho: This three-star hotel is simple and minimalist in decor but very functional and offers a good value for your money. It’s recommended for those who want to keep costs down while having the assurance of basic hotel amenities.
Cabbagetown: a residential area
The entire area east of downtown Toronto is very tranquil and residential, and the costs are generally lower compared to the more central neighborhoods. Among all the extensive neighborhoods in this area, Cabbagetown is certainly the most characteristic.
- Downtown Luxury Victorian Retreat: This Victorian building offers apartments, suites, and rooms with whirlpool baths. It’s a classy choice for those who appreciate historic charm.
- A Seaton Dream B&B A bed and breakfast with lovely rooms and an excellent American breakfast. It’s a comfortable and budget-friendly option for those who want to feel at home without breaking the bank.
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Other Neighborhoods
Do you have a car? If so, you might consider staying outside the city center, where it’s often easier to find quality accommodation at a much lower cost than downtown. Let’s take a look at the main suburban neighborhoods where you can search for accommodation.
North York
- Novotel Toronto North York: The Novotel chain offers a hotel in North York with all the standard comforts. Being close to a subway station, it can be a good option even for those without a rental car who want to save compared to the historic center.
- The Willowdale Hotel Toronto: This hotel is approximately a 15-minute walk from subway stations and can be considered a valid alternative to the previous one.
Scarborough: along the coastline
Scarborough is the neighborhood located east of the city center, stretching along the stretch of coastline from Kew Beach to the Scarborough Bluffs. The coastal area is the most interesting part of this residential neighborhood. Here are a couple of options:
- Best Western Plus Executive Inn: This three-star hotel from the Best Western chain offers simple and standard rooms of good quality. It features an indoor pool for guests to enjoy.
- Cozy, Clean, Comfort Home: This accommodation is a house converted into a hotel. It has a homely style and is very simple and welcoming. The rooms are complemented by a common lounge, laundry facilities, and a lovely garden.
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Etobicoke: Staying Near the Airport
To the west of downtown Toronto lies the large neighborhood of Etobicoke. The reason it’s worth staying here is its proximity to Pearson Airport. It’s an ideal choice, especially for those who need to be close to the airport, perhaps because they arrive late at night or have an early morning flight. Here are a couple of options:
- Old Mill Toronto: This historic property has been transformed into a 4-star hotel with a spa. Each room features a fireplace and a whirlpool tub.
- Embassy Suites By Hilton: Located just steps from the airport, this large Hilton property offers well-equipped suites with all the amenities. It’s the perfect choice if you’re looking for a high-quality hotel that’s easily accessible from Pearson Airport.
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Places to Stay near Toronto
You are planning a road trip in Canada or between Canada and the United States? Then you might be interested in looking for accommodations in other tourist destinations besides Toronto. Niagara Falls, the Thousand Islands, and other points of interest near Lake Ontario are worth considering during your journey, but it may also be worthwhile to stay in a town near Toronto to save on hotel costs. It is quite easy to find lower-priced accommodations if you stay in the surrounding areas.
Staying near Niagara Falls
Staying near Thousands Islands
The Thousands Islands, along with Niagara Falls, are the most important attraction in the Lake Ontario region. A must-visit for those on a road trip passing through Toronto, they deserve at least a full day of exploration, but it would be preferable to dedicate a few days to them. Therefore, if you plan to visit, it is recommended to stay nearby. Here are some suggestions:
- Seaway Manor B&B: A charming red-brick villa located on the shores of the lake in the town of Gananoque. Here, you’ll find beautiful rooms, a delicious breakfast, and a bicycle rental service, which is the perfect way to explore the surrounding area.
- 1Sir Isaac Brock B&B Luxury Suites: Located in Brockville, this lovely historic B&B offers luxurious rooms with private bathroom. Among other amenities, you’ll find a garden and a sun terrace.
You can find all the hotels near the Thousand Islands at the following link:
