THE 5 BEST LODGING DESTINATIONS IN TORONTO
In a cosmopolitan hub like Toronto, it's no surprise that people from around the world flock to every corner of the city to immerse themselves in its vibrant cultural tapestry. This naturally fuels a thriving hotel and lodging industry, providing a much-needed respite after exploring the city's treasures.
Here, we have carefully curated a selection of our favourites. Whether you're embarking on a solo mission, planning a staycation for two, or making lasting memories with the family, each of these options offers a distinctive touch and an authentic taste of life in Toronto.
How We Chose the Best Lodging Destinations in Toronto
How Much Does Hotel Lodging Cost in Toronto?
A standard room at a mid-range hotel costs around $150 to $300 for a one-night stay, while higher-end or luxury hotels can range from $300 to $500 or more.
1. Four Seasons Hotel Toronto
The list would be incomplete without mentioning Toronto’s very own Four Seasons Hotel along Yorkville Avenue, one of the city’s popular shopping and culinary districts.
This illustrious 55-story development, unveiled in 2012, took the place of a 1960s motel that once occupied its prime location. With 259 guest rooms, the hotel houses a selection of the most lavish suites. Some span over 2,000 square feet of predominantly white interiors and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows.
What sets Four Seasons apart is its collection of museum-quality artworks, thoughtfully curated from over 1,500 commissioned local artists. Among these is an ever-changing 30-foot mural that graces their d|azur patio, an outdoor dining destination.
On the culinary front, Café Boulud’s seasonal menu presents a delectable opportunity for guests to indulge. However, the main attraction is their full-service spa, which includes an indoor pool and jacuzzi that promises relaxation.
Pros
- Conveniently located near restaurants and shops
- State-of-the-art wellness spa
- Flexible room options
- Five-star and five-diamond hotel
- Reliable and highly-attentive staff
Cons
- Limited spa availability due to high demand
- Some complaints on minor disrepairs
Guest Reviews
Excellent area to alleviate your stress and enjoy the quietness in the bustling city
“Beautiful, elegant, and luxurious hotel. The staff are always there via in person or just a text message away and they are very attentive to their guests needs. The spa on the 9th floor was amazing. They had a eucalyptus steam room and a nice lounge area where you can relax in your cozy robe… Excellent area to alleviate your stress and enjoy the quietness in the bustling city. Amazing hotel with courteous staff.” – Shirley Yu, Google Reviews
They go above and beyond here! Definitely worth the stay and money!
“Loved the room, the view and the service is UNDEFEATED! When we arrived, Neal, the bellman, gave us a quick tour. Once in the room, they had drinks and a charcuterie board waiting for us. The valet was phenomenal! The restaurants were delicious! Will be returning with my husband and more friends. Spa staff AMAZING! They go above and beyond here! Definitely worth the stay and money!” – Andre’yonna Huggins, Google Reviews
2. Fairmont Royal York
The Fairmont Royal York is a palatial marvel boasting 26 floors and 1,363 guest rooms that command an entire block amidst downtown Toronto’s array of other iconic landmarks. Notable among these are the CN Tower, Union Station, and Rogers Centre, all of which contribute to the city’s distinctive skyline.
Founded in 1929, this imposing and ornate structure has welcomed not only the British royal family but also some world-renowned figures. Ella Fitzgerald, Alfred Hitchcock, and attendees of the Toronto International Film Festival have all graced its halls. With a stroke of luck, you might even find yourself bumping shoulders with a celebrity.
While maintaining the building’s historic charm, the hotel has undergone a series of renovations. The most recent, in 2019, elevated its rooms that balance timeless elegance with contemporary sophistication. These range from the 240-square-foot Fairmont Gold rooms to the sizable 1,390-square-foot executive suites.
Pros
- World-class amenities
- High standards of hospitality and hygiene
- Wide range of guest rooms
- Located near iconic landmarks and attractions
- Prime location makes it highly accessible
Cons
- Complaints of poor room maintenance
- Long waits for check-in/check-out for some
Guest Reviews
The hotel is a traveler’s dream
“The beds are luxurious and spacious! The pool and hot tub is also terrific. The hotel has two great bars for upscale dining or just having some great drinks at a working man’s price! The hotel is a traveler’s dream right across the street from union station and walking distance to all sports stadiums and arenas! You can’t do much better than this in Toronto!” – Mike Henry, Google Reviews
The staff is friendly and helpful without being overbearing
“I have been to the Royal York twice, and on both occasions, I feel like I’ve been swept back in time. It is the ideal place to wear a beautiful dress and heels and feel like a princess… The staff is friendly and helpful without being overbearing. Even the details of the wood carving in the party for my eyes. Our room service team was quick and attentive, and the experience was seamless from the valet parking to check in to check out” – Natalia Valenzuela, Google Reviews
Our check-in was flawless and the service was absolutely exceptional
“I have stayed in many hotels in Toronto yet the Royal York had never made the list… We had originally booked another hotel for this getaway and it was over $100 more for the one night. The service is top-notch. Our check-in was flawless and the service was absolutely exceptional. We advised we were here for an anniversary and she immediately upgraded our room. How do you not give a 5 star for that service?” – Greg Anderson, Google Reviews
3. Hotel X Toronto
Hotel X Toronto offers a wealth of amenities catering to every preference. With offerings like a 250-seat movie theatre, an art gallery, a Guerlain Spa, and seven dining establishments to choose from, there’s something here to captivate everyone’s interests.
Launched in 2018 by the Library Hotel Collection, this facility boasts an expansive 90,000-square-foot state-of-the-art fitness center, unparalleled across the country. Within its walls, you’ll find eight squash courts, tennis courts, a TopGolf Swing Suite, a 55-foot rooftop pool, and a lineup of 50 high-end Technogym equipment pieces.
For those seeking an extra touch of grandeur, the Signature Collections guest rooms, complete with 9-foot high windows, offer stunning perspectives. Guests can bask in the glory of Toronto’s skyline, including breathtaking views of the CN Tower and Lake Ontario.
For larger groups, dedicated multi-room suites and a sprawling 2,900-square-foot penthouse provide ample space and luxury.
Pros
- Several cutting-edge amenities
- Features stunning panoramic views
- Offers multi-room suites and connecting rooms
- Relatively new and fully-equipped guest rooms
- High standards of cleanliness
Cons
- Some complaints of unaccommodating staff
- Long check-in queues at times
Guest Reviews
Friendly, extremely polite, personable, and above all else very professional
“I consider my stay at Hotel X to be one of the top 3 hotel experiences I’ve had in my life… The staff was very friendly, extremely polite, personable, and above all else very professional. The elevators were numerous, spacious, clean, and fast. The room had enormous windows which provided an unbelievable view of lake Ontario… The amenities are wonderful including but not limited to: a kids area, gym, rooftop pool, and Rosa Cocina restaurant.” – Gus Burgess, Google Reviews
It’s such a beautiful location, right in the middle of everything
“Our stay at Hotel X Was fabulous! It’s such a beautiful location, right in the middle of everything. I would like to say a special thank you to the lady who checked us in and Andray the bell guy who helped me with my luggages. He went above and beyond. I admired the excellent service provided at this hotel.” – Krista Laane, Google Reviews
The hotel is LOADED with something to do for everyone!
“I photograph weddings all over the world and Hotel X is easily one of my favorite venues.The hotel is LOADED with something to do for everyone! It has the most amazing rooftop pool and bar that I’ve ever seen, golf simulators, an art-room, gorgeous lobby and so much more. My couple booked the Pearl Room and Bow Tie room for their getting-ready, and I was blown away by how spacious and well designed the space was.” – Mark Barski, Google Reviews
4. The Drake Hotel
The Drake Hotel on Queen West occupies the site of a once-abandoned 19th-century apartment building. Since opening in 2004, it has grown into a hub for capturing Toronto’s cultural heartbeat. It achieves this feat through its eclectic charm, a fusion of contemporary artworks and lively yet sleek furnishings, interwoven with remnants of millwork and exposed brick preserved from the building’s historic roots.
The hotel draws a diverse crowd of locals, visitors, and creative minds alike, partly due to its artist residency program. Additionally, it houses three bustling dining establishments: a basement lounge, a café, and a rooftop terrace that provides a splendid street view of Queen West.
The hotel’s rooms offer a unique cozy ambiance, with a range of sizes from a 105-square-foot nook where the bed shares space with the sink to an award-winning two-bedroom rooftop suite complete with a generous 540-square-foot terrace.
Pros
- Fun and engaging hotel staff
- Regularly hosts live performances and events
- Top-notch dining experience
- Features rotating exhibits and stylish rooms
Cons
- No elevators
- Smaller rooms
- Not ideal for small children
- Bar stays loud at night
Guest Reviews
Our night there was clean and very comfortable
“The Drake Hotel was lovely! Service prompt and friendly. Smiling servers, clean and shining glass tables in the sunny cafe for breakfast. Coffee hot; A great place to meet up with friends and even make new ones on the spot. Our night there was clean and very comfortable; even the city noise was filtered out, and our slumber undisturbed.” – Frances Emery, Google Reviews
Their beautiful rooftop patio offers first-class service
“Indulge in a memorable brunch experience at The Drake Hotel! Their beautiful rooftop patio offers first-class service. And let’s not forget the incredible food—legendary blueberry scones and fried chicken and waffles are absolute must-tries. A brunch you won’t soon forget!” – Jeff Testani, Google Reviews
I love the modern design and cheeky vibes
“Loved staying here! From booking, to our warm welcome, we found the staff incredibly friendly and accommodating. I love the modern design and cheeky vibes. It was the perfect location for us, a five-minute walk to great restaurants, and I will absolutely be booking here again!” – Kimberly Hamilton, Google Reviews
5. 1 Hotel Toronto
You’ll step into a realm of lush, fresh scents and eco-chic interiors as soon as you enter 1 Hotel Toronto. The biophilic 112-room establishment has Toronto’s fingerprints all over it, adorned with locally sourced and handcrafted wooden furnishings, plants, and sustainable art installations masterminded by homegrown artists.
Nestled on King Street West, the hotel has taken root where the former Thompson Hotel once stood. While carving out a niche with its eco-conscious brand, it seamlessly weaves in hallmark luxuries associated with upscale hotels, including a pool deck, a wellness suite, and exceptional culinary dining experiences.
Each guest room is decorated with a calming palette of furniture and interior elements that dot areas spanning from 400 to 2,750 square feet. Remaining faithful to its brand, you’ll discover beddings crafted from organic materials, filtered water, biodegradable toiletries, and a host of other eco-friendly amenities.
Pros
- Integrates sustainable design strategies
- Pet-friendly and PWD-accessible rooms
- Accommodate a wide range of diet restrictions
- Soothing and quiet hotel rooms
- Locally-sourced furnishings
Cons
- Hit-or-miss hospitality services
- Restricts access to some amenities prior to notice
Guest Reviews
We received a complimentary upgraded room which made it extra special
“The hotel decor was beautiful! We loved the mix of modern and greenery everywhere. Before we arrived, we let the front desk know that it was our one year wedding Anniversary and Mira from the front desk took great care of us! We received a complimentary upgraded room which made it extra special. She was very responsive and continued to check in to make sure we were satisfied with our stay.” – Tiffany Khousakoun, Google Reviews
This hotel is the perfect example of quiet luxury
“Had an amazing stay this past weekend. This hotel is the perfect example of quiet luxury. Very eco friendly. A calm, welcoming environment. The whole hotel has a smell to it, not sure how they manage that but it is lovely… Was great to chill in for a bit and enjoy the views. Definitely going to book here again in the future.” – Marc Elzy, Google Reviews
Fantastic service from the staff
“One of the very best hotels I have stayed at. Fantastic service from the staff. There was a hotel car that would take guests to places within a certain radius of downtown and it was very helpful. Car was also very clean and the driver was nice. Location is great, we were within a good distance from most activities and great food. I was only able to stay a night but I tried their breakfast and in-room dining. All fantastic food with fresh delicious ingredients.” – Malak Shaito, Google Reviews