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Where To Stay In Toronto - Toronto Hotels

Where To Stay In Toronto – Best Areas and Hotels for First Time Visitors

Toronto is a city of diverse and vibrant neighborhoods. Each one offers a unique experience of the city’s rich culture and history. I’ve lived in this city since 2016 and I love to call this city home.

If you’re visiting Toronto for the first time, you might be wondering where to stay. There are many different neighborhoods and options. However, as a visitor, you would want a place that’s convenient, comfortable, and exciting. You want a place that lets you explore the best of Toronto without wasting time or money.

That’s why I recommend staying in the best areas in Toronto for first time visitors that I’ve listed below. Here, you’ll have everything you need: easy access to the subway and the hop-on-hop-off bus, proximity to the most popular attractions, and plenty of options for dining and shopping. Whether you’re looking for art, entertainment, nature, or nightlife, you’ll find it in these areas. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the true Toronto. Book your stay today and get ready for an unforgettable trip!

Here are the best areas in Toronto for first time visitors. Click on the link for the area description:

  1. Entertainment District – Stunning location, attractions and great nightlife
  2. Yonge and Dundas – Mid-range hotels, central downtown location, shopping
  3. Bloor-Yorkville – Trendy hotels, high-end shopping and museums
  4. Kensington-Chinatown – For the foodie and the hip traveler
  5. The PATH – Best suited for Winter Travel
  6. The Beaches – Best suited for families and for easy access to the waterfront

Best Areas In Toronto For Tourists

1. Entertainment District – Hotels near CN Tower and Rogers Centre

Where to stay in Toronto - Map of the Entertainment district.
Map of the Entertainment district.

If you’re a first-time visitor to Toronto, you’ll want to make the Entertainment District your base. Here, you’ll be immersed in the city’s cultural epicenter, surrounded by world-class theaters and live performances. Your taste buds will be tantalized by a vast selection of restaurants, and the nightlife will keep you entertained into the early hours. You’ll be just steps away from iconic landmarks. And the best part? Its central location ensures you can effortlessly navigate to other parts of the city.

In short, by staying in the Entertainment District, you’re setting yourself up for an authentic and convenient Toronto experience. The only downside of staying in this area is that hotels tend to be more expensive and book up fast during the summer months. That’s why you should act quickly and reserve your room today if you want a hotel in this area. Don’t miss this chance to stay in the best area in Toronto for tourists. You’ll love it here!

Attractions close to Entertainment district

There are several iconic tourist attractions within close proximity of the Entertainment district. Here’s a handy guide just for you:

  • CN Tower: Just a stone’s throw away, the CN Tower is one of the world’s tallest freestanding structures. Venture to the top for a panoramic view of the city. or if you’re feeling adventurous, try the EdgeWalk – a thrilling outdoor walk on the tower’s ledge!
  • Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada: Located at the base of the CN Tower, this state-of-the-art facility is home to thousands of aquatic creatures. Explore underwater tunnels, touch pools, and interactive displays. The jellyfish display and shark tank are especially mesmerizing.
  • Rogers Centre: Adjacent to the CN Tower, Rogers Centre is a versatile entertainment venue known primarily as the home of the Toronto Blue Jays. Besides baseball games, it hosts large-scale concerts, events, and even monster truck rallies. The retractable roof ensures events go on, rain or shine.
  • Harbourfront Centre: A short walk will land you at Toronto’s waterfront where art, culture, and scenic views of Lake Ontario meld. From art galleries to theaters and seasonal festivals, it’s a vibrant slice of the city. I personally love visiting the harbour front on weekends when it is host to free concerts at the Harbourfront Centre and Toronto’s Music Garden. You can also take a ferry or water taxi to the Toronto Islands from the Harbourfront.

Top Hotel Recommendations in the Entertainment District

If you’re looking for a place to stay in the Entertainment District, you’re in luck. We have some amazing hotel recommendations for you. They are all close to the top attractions, public transport, and restaurants in the area. You’ll love them!

1. InterContinental Toronto Centre:

The InterContinental Toronto Centre is a luxury hotel that boasts spectacular views of Lake Ontario, the CN Tower, and the city skyline. It offers a serene urban oasis in the heart of the bustling Entertainment District. Rooms are elegantly appointed, and the hotel boasts a spa, indoor pool, and a gourmet restaurant. Its location near Union Station makes it exceptionally accessible for those arriving by train or planning to explore the city using public transit. It’s steps away from CN Tower, Rogers Centre, the Harbourfront where you can catch a ferry to Toronto Islands.

Check Price on Booking.com

2. Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto

This is a perfect option if you want to experience the city from a different perspective. You’ll have a stunning view of the city skyline and Lake Ontario from your room. The hotel also has free WiFi, an indoor heated pool and hot tub, and a 24-hour fitness center. And you’ll be connected to the Union Station and the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, so you can easily get around the city or take a day trip to Niagara Falls.

Check Price on Booking.com

3. Hyatt Regency Toronto:

Conveniently located, the Hyatt offers a contemporary setting with spacious rooms. It’s well known for its rooftop pool and splendid views of the city.
Check Price on Booking.com

4. The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto

This is a wonderful choice if you want to treat yourself to some luxury in Toronto. You’ll have an elegant room with a marble bathroom, free WiFi, and a Nespresso machine. The hotel also has a spa, an indoor pool, a pool bar and two restaurants that are at your disposal. And you’ll be steps away from the CN Tower, the Rogers Centre and the Roy Thomson Hall, where you can enjoy some culture and entertainment.

Check Price on Booking.com

Getting Around from Entertainment District

The Entertainment district has excellent transit links. You have Union Station close by through which you can access Line 1 on the subway to see the city.

Via Rail and GO Train stations are also at Union Station, both of which can be used to visit the Niagara Falls. Pearson Express, which takes you to the Pearson International airport, is at the Union Station as well.

If you don’t want to use public transit, you can purchase a Hop-on Hop-off bus ticket which has stops at all the attractions. Hop-on, Hop-off buses are a convenient way to see the city, you can “hop on” and “hop off” the bus as you like within the validity of the ticket.

2. Yonge and Dundas – Mid range hotels, central location, shopping

Where to stay in Toronto - Map of Yonge and Dundas
Yonge and Dundas

If you’re looking for a more affordable place to stay in Toronto, you should check out the area on Yonge Street between College Street and Queen Street.

This is a great area that has a lot of advantages for tourists. You’ll be close to many attractions and the subway, so you can easily get around the city. The areas also has plenty of options for shopping, from big malls like the Eaton Centre, the Hudson’s Bay, and Saks Fifth Avenue, to small independent shops along Yonge and Queen Street.

You’ll never run out of things to buy or see. Trust me, you’ll love staying in this area. It’s convenient, fun and budget-friendly. Don’t miss this chance to book your room today!

Attractions close to Yonge and Dundas

Yonge and Dundas is one of the most vibrant intersections in Toronto, often likened to New York’s Times Square due to its bustling atmosphere, digital billboards, and concentration of entertainment venues. If you’re in the vicinity of Yonge and Dundas, there are numerous tourist attractions to explore:

  • Dundas Square: Toronto’s premier public square, it hosts various events, concerts, and public gatherings. Surrounded by digital billboards, it’s the city’s own version of a mini “Times Square.”
  • Toronto Eaton Centre: One of North America’s top shopping destinations, this multi-level mall boasts hundreds of retailers, diverse dining options, and a stunning glass galleried design.
  • Ed Mirvish Theatre: A historic venue for performing arts, the theater regularly hosts Broadway-style productions, musicals, and other live performances.
  • Massey Hall: Another cherished historic venue, Massey Hall is renowned for its incredible acoustics and has seen performances by many musical legends over the years
  • Little Canada in downtown Toronto is a unique attraction showcasing detailed miniatures of Canada’s iconic landscapes and urban centers. Visitors can explore the nation’s diversity, from bustling streets to majestic Rockies, all in a compact, enchanting display. It’s a fresh perspective on Canada’s vastness, right in the city’s heart. Check out the tickets to Little Canada here.

Top Hotel Recommendations on Yonge & Dundas

If you’re looking for a place to stay on Yonge Street, you’re in the right place. We have three awesome hotel recommendations for you. They are all close to the top attractions, public transport, and restaurants on Yonge Street. You’ll love them!

1. Courtyard by Marriott Toronto Downtown

This is a contemporary and comfortable hotel that has the largest indoor pool in downtown Toronto. You’ll have a roomy room with free WiFi, a mini-fridge and a workstation. You’ll also have a fitness center, a business center and a bistro in the hotel, where you can have breakfast or dinner.
Check Price on Booking.com

2. Holiday Inn Express Toronto Downtown

This is a cozy and affordable hotel that offers rooms with free WiFi, flat-screen TVs and coffee makers. It also has a fitness center, a business center and a free breakfast buffet.

Check Price on Booking.com

3. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Toronto Downtown

This is a comfortable and convenient hotel that offers rooms with free WiFi, mini-fridges and coffee makers. It also has an indoor pool, a fitness center and a restaurant, where you can have breakfast or dinner.

Check Price on Booking.com

Getting Around from Entertainment District

If you are staying at Yonge and Dundas, you have access to Line 1 of the subway. You can board the train from Eaton Centre (Stop Name:Dundas Station), from College Street or Queen Street.

You also have access to streetcars 501 at Yonge and Queen, 505 streetcar at Yonge and Dundas, 506 streetcar at College Street. 2023 Update: Please note, due to ongoing construction on Queen Street starting from 2023, you may not have access to the 501 streetcar at Yonge and Queen.

Hop-on Hop-off buses typically start-off from the Dundas square. So, if you are opting for Hop on-hop off buses, this would be the ideal place to get the best seat on the rooftop of these buses.

3. Bloor-Yorkville – Trendy hotels, high-end shopping and museums

Where to stay in Toronto - Map of Bloor-Yorkville
Map of Bloor-Yorkville. Source: GoogleMaps

If you want to experience the glamorous side of Toronto, you should stay in the Bloor-Yorkville area. This is where you’ll find some of the most fashionable shops and restaurants on Yorkville Avenue and Bloor Street West. You’ll love browsing through the designer boutiques and dining at the chic cafes and bistros.

At Bloor and Yonge, you’ll also have easy access to the subway, so you can explore other parts of the city. You are also be close to some of the most interesting attractions in Toronto which are within walkable distance of your hotel.

The only downside of staying in this area is that hotels tend to be more expensive and luxurious, which may not suit everyone’s budget. Though it’s not within walking distance of attractions such as the CN Tower and other popular attractions, you can easily get there with the help of the subway which is at your doorstep. It’s trendy, fun and sophisticated. Don’t miss this chance to book your room today!

Attractions near Bloor-Yorkville Area

  • Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): One of Canada’s largest museums, the ROM boasts an impressive collection ranging from natural history to world cultures. The building’s Crystal addition, designed by architect Daniel Libeskind, is a modern architectural marvel.
  • Bata Shoe Museum: This unique museum is dedicated to the history of footwear. Its collection includes shoes spanning over 4,500 years, from ancient sandals to contemporary high fashion.
  • Mink Mile: Along Bloor Street, this stretch is known for its high-end boutiques and luxury retailers, making it a prime destination for shopping enthusiasts
  • Yorkville Village: A chic shopping center that houses a mix of upscale boutiques, gourmet food shops, and fine dining restaurants.

Top Hotel Recommendations on Bloor-Yorkville

Here are our top three hotel suggestions for the Bloor-Yorkville area:

1. The Hazelton Hotel

This is a stunning and luxurious hotel that has been in the Bloor-Yorkville area since 2007. It offers spacious rooms with free WiFi, flat-screen TVs and Nespresso machines. You also has access to a full service spa, where you can enjoy world class treatments.

Check Price on Booking.com

2. The Yorkville Royal Sonesta Hotel Toronto

This is a stylish and cozy hotel that offers enjoyable facilities and unique dining options. It offers comfortable rooms with free WiFi, mini-fridges and iPod docks. It also has a seasonal patio, where you can have a drink or a snack.

Check Price on Booking.com

3. Four Seasons Hotel Toronto at Yorkville

This is a sophisticated and elegant hotel that offers an expansive spa and full service fitness center. It offers modern rooms with free WiFi, flat-screen TVs and marble bathrooms. You also have access to an indoor lap pool and a hot tub, where you can relax.

Check Price on Booking.com

Getting Around from Bloor-Yorkville

Bloor-Yorkville has great subway connections. The Bloor-Yonge Station has access to both Line 1 and Line 2 of the subway. So, you can travel to different attractions with ease. Check out the subway map posted at the end of the article for more information.

Bloor-Yorkville area has several stops on the hop-on hop-off buses. You have stops at the ROM, Bata Show Museum, and at Yorkville. So, if you are choosing to see Toronto by these buses, you can easily hop-on to the bus from any of these stops.

4. Kensington-Chinatown – For the foodie and the hip traveler

Kensington market and Chinatown
Kensington Market and Chinatown. source: GoogleMaps

If you want to experience the vibrant culture of Toronto, you should stay in Chinatown. This is where you’ll find some of the best budget hotels in the city. You can check out some of our great recommendations here.

At Chinatown, you’ll also have easy access to the streetcar service, which will take you to downtown and Harbourfront in no time. Some of the most amazing attractions in Toronto such as those listed below are steps away from your hotel.

You can explore the art, history and diversity of Toronto in these places. Don’t forget to try some of the delicious Asian cuisine that Chinatown has to offer. You’ll find some of the best restaurants in this area. Chinatown is a great place to stay if you want to have fun, and eat well in Toronto. Don’t miss this chance to book your room today!

Attractions near Kensington Market – Chinatown

Kensington Market and Chinatown in Toronto are two of the city’s most vibrant and culturally rich neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character. They’re adjacent to each other, making it easy for visitors to explore both in a single outing. Here are some key tourist attractions and points of interest in and around these areas:

  • Kensington Market: Not just a market, but a historical bohemian neighborhood known for its eclectic shops, vintage stores, global eateries, and colorful street art. This pedestrian paradise is especially lively on Pedestrian Sundays when vehicles are kept out. If you are a foodie, you will definitely like this food tasting tour by a local guide at the Kensington Market. With this tour, you are guaranteed to skip the lines and sample some of the best foods that Toronto has to offer!
  • Chinatown: One of the largest in North America, Toronto’s Chinatown boasts a plethora of authentic restaurants, bakeries, grocery stores, and trinket shops. The area comes alive with the sights, sounds, and scents of Asia.
  • Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO): Located a short walk from both neighborhoods, AGO houses a vast collection of artwork, from Indigenous and Canadian pieces to European masterpieces. The building, with its modern wing designed by Frank Gehry, is a sight in itself.
  • Toronto’s Graffiti Alley: Located just south of Chinatown and Kensington, this alleyway showcases street art and murals by various artists, reflecting Toronto’s vibrant urban culture. Though the area is a bit rough and smelly, you’ll get some of the most gorgeous photos in Toronto here. Check out my article about Graffiti Alley here.

Top Hotel Recommendations in Chinatown Toronto

Here are our top three hotel suggestions for Chinatown Toronto

1. Hotel Ocho

This is a boutique hotel that offers rooms with free WiFi and flat-screen TVs. It also has a restaurant and a bar, where you can enjoy a meal or a drink. It is within a 10-minute walk of Kensington Market, where you can find shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It is also close to the Art Gallery of Ontario and Queen Street West.

Check Price on Booking.com

2. The Rex Hotel

This is a cozy and affordable hotel that offers rooms with free WiFi and cable TV. It also has a jazz bar and a restaurant, where you can listen to live music and enjoy a snack. It is close to many attractions, such as the Royal Alexandra Theatre, the Princess of Wales Theatre and the Four Seasons Centre.

Check Price on Booking.com

Getting Around from Kensington and Chinatown

Spadina subway Station at Bloor Street has access to both Line 1 and Line 2 of the subway.

Streetcar 509,510 along Spadina avenue make it easy to access Spadina Station and the subway. They can also be used to go to the Harbourfront and downtown.

Hop-on Hop-off buses have a stop at Spadina and Bloor and also at Jackman Hall near Art Gallery of Ontario. From these stops you can easily walk to the nearby attractions.

5. The PATH – Best Suited for Winter

If you want to explore the city in a different way, you can use the PATH Toronto – an underground pathway that connects many buildings in downtown Toronto. You can find many shops and restaurants on the PATH and walk to the CN Tower, the Hockey Hall of Fame, and some other attractions without going outside. How cool is that? This is perfect if you are visiting the city in Winter and don’t like going out in the snow. If you want to learn more about the PATH, read my article here.

Attractions accessible directly from the PATH

The PATH is a vast underground pedestrian network in Toronto that spans over 30 kilometers, making it the largest of its kind in the world. This labyrinth connects several downtown buildings, transit stations, shopping centers, and more. Many of Toronto’s key attractions and landmarks are accessible directly from the PATH or are just a short walk from its exits. Here are some notable attractions and destinations you can access directly from or very near the PATH:

  1. Toronto Eaton Centre: A multi-level shopping center, it’s one of North America’s top shopping destinations with a range of retailers from luxury brands to popular chains.
  2. Hockey Hall of Fame: A celebration of Canada’s national sport, this museum showcases the history of hockey with exhibits, memorabilia, and interactive displays.
  3. Brookfield Place: An architectural marvel, especially the stunning atrium known as the Allen Lambert Galleria. It houses shops, restaurants, and is home to the Hockey Hall of Fame.
  4. Scotiabank Arena: While a short walk from the PATH, it’s home to the Toronto Maple Leafs (NHL) and the Toronto Raptors (NBA) and hosts various concerts and events.
  5. Roy Thomson Hall: Also a short walk from the PATH, this iconic concert hall is known for its distinctive circular architectural design and serves as the home for the Toronto Symphony Orchestra.

Top Hotel Recommendations with direct access to the PATH

1. Fairmont Royal York:

An emblem of luxury and tradition, this historic hotel not only captures Toronto’s essence but also offers direct access to the PATH, the city’s underground pedestrian walkway. This extensive network ensures you’re connected to a plethora of downtown Toronto’s finest establishments and attractions, making navigation especially convenient in inclement weather

Check Price on Booking.com

2.The Hilton Toronto

Situated in the heart of downtown, the Hilton Toronto seamlessly merges luxury with convenience. Its modern rooms and amenities offer guests a comfortable retreat in the city. One of its standout features is its direct connection to the PATH, Toronto’s expansive underground pedestrian network. This provides guests with easy and sheltered access to a myriad of downtown attractions, shops, and businesses, ensuring a hassle-free experience, especially during the city’s colder months or inclement weather. Whether you’re in Toronto for business or leisure, the Hilton Toronto, with its PATH connectivity, positions you at the crossroads of comfort and convenience.

Check Price on Booking.com

Getting Around the PATH

Getting around the PATH is a bit tricky. Even native Torontonians get lost in the maze. However, the PATH is an interesting way to explore the city and it’s a tourist attraction in its own right. To explore the PATH on your own, check out my article on the PATH where I give some useful pointers to make sense of the maze. You can also opt to get a guided tour of the PATH where you explore the underground city of Toronto.

6. The Beaches – Best suited for families and for easy access to the waterfront

The Beaches is one of Toronto’s most picturesque neighborhoods, offering a serene lakeside respite from the bustling city. Ideal for families, its long stretches of sandy shores along Lake Ontario provide a perfect setting for sunbathing, picnicking, and building sandcastles. The adjacent boardwalk, lined with towering trees, is ideal for leisurely walks and bike rides.

While the area doesn’t host traditional hotels, it boasts an array of Airbnbs, ensuring visitors have easy access to the beach and the charming local shops and eateries. However, the area right next to the beach near Queen Street East can be expensive even in terms of Airbnb.

If you are looking for more affordable options, try Upper Beaches, close to Woodbine and Danforth. Upper Beaches has excellent connection to transport (Subway at Woodbine Station, that takes you to Downtown within 15 minutes. This area is also 15 minute walk away from the beach. There’s also a bus from Woodbine station that takes you to the Beach in just 5 minutes. The Beaches represents a harmonious blend of urban convenience and coastal relaxation, making it a top choice for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.

For more information about this area, please refer to my article on the Beaches Toronto here.

Attractions near The Beaches

The Beaches, often simply referred to as “The Beach,” is a unique and charming neighborhood in Toronto, characterized by its sandy shores and a laid-back vibe reminiscent of coastal towns. When visiting this area, several attractions and points of interest beckon tourists:

  • The Beaches Boardwalk: A lengthy wooden boardwalk that stretches along the sandy shores of Lake Ontario, it’s perfect for strolls with picturesque views of the water and the city skyline.
  • Kew Gardens: A sprawling park in the heart of the Beaches, it’s home to a playground, a wading pool, tennis courts, and hosts numerous community events and festivals.
  • The Beach Village: The main commercial strip along Queen Street East features a myriad of local boutiques, artisanal bakeries, cozy cafes, and restaurants that cater to diverse palates.
  • Glen Stewart Ravine: A peaceful and scenic getaway, this wooded ravine is crisscrossed by boardwalks and trails, making it perfect for nature walks and bird watching.
  • R.C. Harris Water Treatment Plant: An architectural gem often referred to as the “Palace of Purification,” this facility offers occasional public tours, providing a glimpse into its fascinating Art Deco design.

Getting around from Beaches or Upper Beaches

Upper Beaches (area near the intersection between Woodbine and Danforth avenues), has access to Line 2 of the subway at Woodbine Station. You can travel from Woodbine station to Bloor-Yonge Station (Downtown) within 15 minutes.

There’s a bus (bus no. 92) from Woodbine station to the Beaches with stops at Queen Street East and Woodbine Beach Loop. The bus runs every few minutes (approx. every 12 minutes). So, it’s very convenient to access to Subway station from the Beaches area through the bus.

The 501 streetcar takes you from Queen Street East at the Beaches to downtown, to Dundas square within 30 to 40 minutes.

If you are in the Upper Beaches, there’s also the 506 street car at Gerrard Street East that will take you to downtown (stops at College street, Bay).

Apart from these, you also have access to the GO train at the Danforth GO Station. The trains from here will take you to Union Station from where you can catch a train to Niagara Falls or other nearby towns and cities.

Transit Map Of Toronto

If you plan to use the subway or streetcar to roam around in Toronto, then you may find the transit map that’s posted below, useful. Download the subway map here.

transit map of Toronto
Transit Map of Toronto – Subway and Streetcar map. Source: TTC

The two main subway lines in Toronto are Line 1 (shown in yellow) and Line 2 (shown in green). The other two lines are rarely used by visitors to Toronto.

Toronto offers a range of tourist attractions, and the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) provides convenient access to many of them. Here’s a list of some of the popular attractions in Toronto and the nearby subway or streetcar stations:

  1. CN Tower:
    – Closest subway station: Union Station (Line 1)
    – Nearby streetcar route: 509 Harbourfront
  2. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM):
    – Closest subway station: Museum Station (Line 1)
  3. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO):
    – Closest streetcar route: 505 Dundas
  4. Casa Loma:
    – Closest subway station: Dupont Station (Line 1)
    – Nearby streetcar route: 512 St. Clair (requires additional walking)
  5. Toronto Islands:
    – Ferry departure: Jack Layton Ferry Terminal
    – Closest subway station: Union Station (Line 1)
    – Nearby streetcar route: 509 Harbourfront
  6. Distillery District:
    – Nearby streetcar route: 504 King
  7. St. Lawrence Market:
    – Closest subway station: King Station (Line 1)
    – Nearby streetcar route: 504 King
  8. Hockey Hall of Fame:
    – Closest subway station: Union Station (Line 1)
  9. High Park:
    – Closest subway station: High Park Station (Line 2)
    – Nearby streetcar route: 506 Carlton (requires additional walking)
  10. Toronto Zoo:
    – Not directly accessible by subway or streetcar. Need to take the Scarborough RT (Line 3) to its terminus, McCowan, then a bus.
  11. Eaton Centre:
    – Closest subway stations: Queen Station (Line 1) or Dundas Station (Line 1)
  12. Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada:
    – Closest subway station: Union Station (Line 1)
    – Nearby streetcar route: 509 Harbourfront
  13. Bata Shoe Museum:
    – Closest subway station: St. George Station (Line 1 and Line 2)
  14. Ontario Science Centre:
    – Not directly accessible by subway. Nearest subway station is Eglinton Station (Line 1), and then take the 34 bus.
  15. Scarborough Bluffs:
    – Not directly accessible by subway or streetcar. You can get relatively close with buses from Kennedy Station (Line 2) and take a bus from there. See directions from my article on Scarborough Bluffs.
  16. The Beaches:
    – Not directly accessible by subway. Closest subway station: Woodbine Station (Line 2), then take the 92 bus from Woodbine Station or the 501 streetcar from downtown.

This list covers many of the top tourist destinations in Toronto, but the city has many more attractions and neighborhoods worth exploring. Always make sure to check the latest TTC schedules and routes when planning your visit, as they can change.

I hope this hotel guide helps you find suitable accommodation in Toronto. Please plan and book your accommodation early as the hotels in Toronto get booked very quickly, months in advance, during peak tourist season April – September. Also, remember that there’s 13% HST in Toronto which may not be shown upfront by the hotels while booking.

If you need any help planning your visit to Toronto or have any specific questions about Toronto, feel free to ask me by commenting on the post. You may find my post on Top 25 free things to do in Toronto helpful. It may save you some money on some Toronto attractions if you time your visit right.

If you find this post helpful, please share with your friends and family on social media.

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55 Comments

  1. LOL a real taste of home this was – I’m from London Ontario and love reading about my home Province and my favourite thing to do was visit Toronto. Love Chinatown, Kensington Market not to mention the Distillery District. Some excellent choices of hotels here really well done.

    1. Hi there, Thank you for commenting :). Many people have an impression that Canada is cold year round. However, it’s not really true.
      In Toronto, we have snow only from December to April. Rest of the year we have pleasant/warm weather. In summer(June to August) the temperatures
      range from 25 degree celsius to 33 degree celsius (almost too hot!). I hope you take that into consideration and make future plans to visit Canada.
      It’s a lovely, unspoiled country.

  2. Had a lot of fun reading this post as I am from Toronto and still live here! I think you’ve certainly identified places to maximize your time in the city. The Shangri-La certainly has the best restaurants, so if it’s good food you are after that would be a top pick!

    1. Thanks Lauren. It’s great to get a fellow torontonian’s (had to google this word LOL) stamp of approval. A high compliment 🙂

  3. I would so love to travel to Toronto, it looks amazing. I have to research hotels for their disabled access too, but thank you for this info if I ever I go at least I have an idea of where best to start my searches.

    1. Thank you Kate. I am so happy that you found the post helpful. Feel free to reach out to me for any questions/tips on Toronto if you visit sometime.

  4. Great information, as a Canadian I am ashamed to say I have never been to Toronto! (shh Don’t tell!!) But when I do this is a great list of hotels! Every budget is hit, great job at doing research.

  5. Thanks for your recommendations on places to stay in Toronto. Booking a hotel is one of the most difficult task when you are making bookings without seeing the place. Thanks for highlighting about the 13% tax and 4% city tax in Toronto as that can be overlooked when budgeting!

  6. Ah this will be so useful when we visit Toronto! The matrix comparison of the different areas is such a simple yet brilliant idea. I haven’t seen it on other blogs before. Makes it very quick and easy to look for what I need 🙂

    1. Thank You Alex, I am glad you found it helpful. It is always satisfying when someone finds what you have done useful :).

    1. Thank you Sarah. I personally love staying at apartments rented on Airbnb since my trips are longer(more than a month). I definitely recommend staying at Airbnbs in Toronto. There are some very nice ones right in Entertainment District that rent out the whole apartment at a slightly lower price than the hotels in the area.
      I will write another post about it recommending the best ones. I will update this comment when I do so that you can check it out.

  7. I love how you’ve incorporated the graphics into this post. I would definitely love to visit Toronto and you’ve listed some pretty amazing hotels to stay at!

    1. Thank you Yeshi. I am a believer of pictures speak louder than words. I wanted the post to inform people, at a glance, about where to stay in Toronto and the best areas. I am glad that my message has come across.

  8. Very helpful information! This is quite a detailed post on the list of great hotels in Totonto including luxury and budget ones. It seems you’ve done a lot of research on this. I agree it’s difficult to choose the best suited hotel when you have so many choices. Thanks for this great list. Saving it for future.

  9. This is such a comprehensive guide, love the ticks you’ve put together! This will really help so many people get the experience they want most out of Toronto.

  10. I really appreciate that “best Toronto neighborhoods for tourists” graphic. That’s really handy. Toronto is high on my list of cities to visit, and I have some friends there, too, so this guide is going to come in handy for sure.

  11. Toronto seems awesome, but these places are way out of reach for me as a solo traveler. Are there any hostels that might be more budget friendly?

    1. Sure, there are some hostels and some good airbnbs for a budget traveller. I will make a separate post about just affordable hostels. I will update you then.

  12. If I ever get a chance to step my feet in Canada, I think Toronto is the best place to explore their urban life. I love how you provide the infographics with the pros and cons of staying in each area. That’s super helpful. Not sure when I will be able to go there, but I’ll definitely keep this post for the reference. Thanks for sharing!

  13. Awesome post!! I’ve never been to Toronto, but I’ve only heard great things about it! And your post definitely makes me want to go even more. But, now I know where to stay, where to go, and much more. Thanks for the great post!

  14. I really like the way you deep into explain things and sort things out. The images and lists are so well done.
    Thanks for your post. I will follow your blog from now on!

  15. I love that you did that chart- that is so helpful more than seeing it all in writing!! I hope to make it to Toronto soon since I am only a short plane ride away!!

  16. wow you really did do the research for us. Great post. If only I could afford the upmarket ones…they look amazing!

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