Toronto is a chic, dynamic and trendy city. Whether you’re here on vacation or on business, the cultural life is vibrant and lively. With restaurants, cocktail bars and hotels in every neighborhood, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.

And in Toronto, each neighborhood has its own atmosphere and history. Are you more interested in the chic, boutique side of the city, or in the quiet and the out-of-this-world? Here are my top 10 neighborhoods to stay in if you’re visiting Toronto.

where to stay in Toronto

Downtown Toronto

If you’re only spending a short time in the city, I highly recommend booking your accommodation in downtown Toronto. At its epicenter, the downtown area is home to both large hotel complexes and moderately priced rentals. So you’re sure to find the establishment of your choice, while enjoying all the amenities and attractions downtown has to offer.

Downtown Toronto is one of the most convenient places to stay, with easy access to the CN Tower, Eaton Centre, entertainment district and Harbourfront. What’s more, you’ll be able to dine in a wide variety of restaurants and bars, to suit all budgets.

Some hotels we recommend :

  • Fairmont Royal York
  • Hyatt Regency Toronto
  • Shangri-La Toronro
  • 1 Hotel Toronto
  • Westin Harbour Castle

Yorkville

If you’re more the preppy type, Yorkville is the neighborhood for you. Very chic and trendy, this district is renowned for its high-end boutiques, where you can organize a shopping session or buy a tailor-made suit for the meeting with your CEO in Toronto. To relax, visit the splendid art galleries and feast in the best gourmet restaurants.

Yorkville is the ideal neighborhood for combining work and pleasure.

Some hotels we recommend :

  • Four Seasons Hotel Toronto
  • The Avalon Yorkville
  • Bellamond Suites

Distillery District

The historic and picturesque Distillery District is one of Toronto’s most charming neighborhoods. The streets are cobbled and the buildings are clad in red brick, creating an atypical landscape in such a modern city. The many stores, restaurants and bars have retained their old-world charm. For a more authentic Toronto experience, this is the ideal area to stay. And if you’re lucky enough to stay with a local, the change of scenery is guaranteed.

Some hotels we recommend :

  • The Broadview Hotel
  • The Omni King Edward Hotel

West Queen West

If you have the soul of an artist and love places with real soul, West Queen West should capture your heart. It’s one of Toronto’s hippest art districts. It’s best known for its art galleries, vintage clothing stores, bars and restaurants. If you’ve got a bohemian spirit and a taste for street art, West Queen West is just waiting for you!

Some hotels we recommend :

  • The Drake Hotel
  • Gladstone House

Kensington Market

If you’re looking for new lifestyles and cultures during your travels, I recommend the magnificent Kensington Market district, which gives you the feeling of living a multicultural experience. This lively neighborhood is known for transporting travelers beyond the limits of Toronto, if not the continent. The smells of oriental spices mingle with the modern music of cocktail bars.

International restaurants invite you to discover a different cuisine, and you can try your hand at reproducing the delicious dishes in the various multicultural food stores.

It’s an ideal place for travelers looking to discover a variety of cultures and flavors.

Some hotels we recommend :

The Beaches

If vacation means relaxation and rest, The Beaches is the place to book. Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, The Beaches is a picturesque neighborhood known for its sandy beaches, cafés and restaurants. Enjoy a relaxing view of the lake and a breath of fresh air. It’s an ideal spot for travelers looking to relax and enjoy the lake view.

Some hotels we recommend :

  • Pantages Hotel Toronto Centre
  • One King West Hotel & Residence
  • Hotel Victoria

Midtown

A quiet residential neighborhood north of downtown Toronto, Midtown is appreciated for its peace and quiet. If you’re looking to get out and about, Midtown is the place to be. There are many parks and green spaces in the area. A dynamic neighborhood, Midtown is rich in family attractions. Discover the Royal Ontario Museum and the Ontario Science Museum.

Recommended hotels :

Little Italy

If you want to experience la dolce vita right in the heart of Toronto, Little Italy is the Italian neighborhood par excellence. Italian restaurants abound. Enjoy delicious pizzas, antipasti and linguine al dente. The atmosphere here is festive and jovial. Don’t be surprised to hear Italian spoken around every corner!

If you get the chance, I invite you to stay at the Gladstone Hotel. Located on the border between Little Italy and Queen West, this charming hotel offers elegant rooms decorated with local works of art. It also boasts an on-site bar and restaurant, as well as a program of regular cultural events.

Some hotels we recommend :

  • 1 Hotel Toronro
  • The Yorkville Royal Sonesta Hotel Toronto
  • St Germain Hotel Toronto Mercer

Annex

The Annex is a bohemian, eclectic neighborhood. As a lover of the Victorian era, you can discover and admire period houses, independent bookstores and trendy cafés. Rich in culture, the Annex district is the perfect place to stroll and let yourself be transported into an authentic atmosphere.

It’s an ideal place for travelers looking to wander the lively streets and discover the local culture.

Some hotels we recommend :

  • The Yorkville Royal Sonesta Hotel
  • Madison Manor Boutique Hotel

North York

North York is a former city, now part of Toronto. This residential area is quiet and pleasant, ideal for a stay in Toronto. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, North York is a serene bubble in which to take a well-deserved break. What’s more, the neighborhood is rich in parks and green spaces.

If you’re taking the whole family, you won’t be outdone by exciting attractions such as the Ontario Science Centre and the Canada Aviation and Space Museum. For men who love fashion, Yorkdale Shopping Centre, one of Toronto’s largest and most luxurious malls, is located in North York.

Recommended hotels :

  • Radisson Hotel Toronto East
  • Novotel Toronto North York
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