Best places to stay in Toronto
Toronto is by far one of the most multicultural areas in Canada. In Toronto alone, you have over 140 languages spoken, and half of the residents here are estimated to be born outside of the country. While this large, cosmopolitan city seems complex at first, once you get to know the districts of Toronto, you will find yourself mingling with the locals and enjoying the safe downtown atmosphere with ease. Toronto’s downtown area is vibrant with the expected big-city flair, and you find some of the finest eateries, unique events, and gorgeous architecture. Even better, you are right on the waters of Lake Ontario’s northern shore, and in the midst of the 400-acre High Park with its eclectic mix of outdoor activities, hiking trails, musicians, and a whole lot of fun for everyone in your group to enjoy.
Downtown Toronto
Downtown Toronto is a bustling metropolis with grand skyscrapers, shopping streets, and the longest street in the world, known as Yonge Street. For the trendiest, hippest finds, the Queen West neighbourhood is your best option. Hotels in downtown are sleek, chic and comfortable. Most have on-site restaurants and nestle up amongst the high-rises of the downtown area. Hotels for a luxurious stay and fine dining include the Fairmont Royal York or the Cambridge Suites Toronto.
Chinatown
Chinatown in Toronto is not the been-there-done-that scene, but instead a place you definitely want to visit. This diverse neighbourhood has the Chinese-Canadian population that is so large you have multiple blocks in the zone. Enjoy authentic Asian cuisine, ethnic goods, and traditional items coming from Vietnam, China, Japan, and Thailand. Hotels in Chinatown are colourful, sleek, and safe. For a reasonable stay in this part of the city, try Hotel Victoria on the outskirts of Chinatown. The Alexandra Hotel and Studio 6 Toronto are in the middle of Chinatown and surrounded by local eateries and boutiques.
Waterfront Area
You simply cannot visit a waterfront city and stay inland the entire time! Lake Ontario offers you the most breathtaking morning views of the sunrise, yellow sanded beaches, and the distinct Toronto skyline. You can stay close to the beaches and you will be within walking distance for plenty of local activities. Hotels here are more for the elite and therefore, pricey, but ideal if you plan to spend a lot of your time on the lakeside beach. Two hotels with premium locations include The Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto and the Radisson Admiral Hotel Toronto-Harbourfront.
Yorkville
Yorkville is that chic, trendy neighbourhood of Toronto you imagine when you see big city shows and movies. When considering where to stay in Toronto, you might enjoy the high-class, fashionable options and swanky boutiques here. Deluxe suites, 5-star hotels, and elegant inns are scattered throughout Yorkville, including the Four Seasons Hotel Toronto, The Hazelton Hotel, and InterContinental Toronto Centre hotel.
Scarborough
Scarborough is on the eastern border of Toronto. Originally, it was a rural group of villages, but eventually merged into Toronto. Today, it is a diverse community with immigrants from around the world. Religious landmarks are scattered throughout Scarborough, and you can walk to local points of interest, including Rouge National Urban Park. Most of the hotels here fall into the quaint and boutique categories. However, they also offer the most value and convenience. Some hotels to consider here include Delta Hotels Toronto by Marriott and Scarborough Centre Luxury Business Suite.
Cheap hotels in Toronto
Toronto is often, mistakenly portrayed as a pricey place to visit. In reality, there are numerous budget-friendly hotel options. Because the city itself is safe overall, and vibrant, you do not have to worry much about your choice of hotel location skimping on safety to find lower prices. While many cheap hotels in Toronto are by the airport, you are not in a strategic location staying here. Instead, circle out a bit and explore the city for accommodations that are cost-effective, but away from the sound of jet engines overhead. A few budget options include the Courtyard Toronto Downtown on Yonge Street. Also, the Super 8 Toronto Downtown in Chinatown is on Spadina Avenue. In Yorkville, stay at the Howard Johnson Hotel Toronto Yorkville, where you are next to the Bay and Museum subway stations on Avenue Road.